Traditions

by Witezon

The developing relationship between Archer and T'Pol

3. Traditions parts 21 through 30

Traditions, part 21 Author: Witezon@aol.com Pairing: A/T Rating: PG-13 Everything belongs to Paramount/UPN.

They lay in the darkness, feeling satiated and completely happy. Archer was slowly caressing her arm.

"T'Pol, what are we going to do about living quarters?"

She was laying against him, with her head on his shoulder, and a leg draped across his. 'The three of us should be together, but it may not be possible.'

'Three?' 'You, me, and Porthos.'

'Why wouldn't it be possible?'

'Your cabin is not quite large enough for all of us to live here. Mine is definitely not.' She ran her hand across his chest.

'I have no intention of not living with you. So, how much room do we need?'

She looked up at him, 'Perhaps half again.'

'Alright, lets see what Trip has to say. Until then, we'll do what we've been doing for the last month.'

'Agreed.'

THE NEXT MORNING

'Let's get some breakfast. I'm starving.'

'Indeed. You did work up quite an appetite.' He grinned at her.

They went to have breakfast and immediately returned to his quarters. They noticed the crew watching them, but they needed to become used to them being a couple as well as the Captain and the Sub-Commander.

They spent the day doing whatever newlyweds do on their honeymoon. It was exactly what they needed.

That night they went to get some dinner and took it into the Captain's Dining Room. The chime rang after they had sat down. "Come."

Archer looked over at her, 'Tomorrow we go back to work.'

'Yes?' 'I don't feel like it.'

'What do you feel like?' He started to grin, 'Lots of things that don't end with 'Yes, Captain.''

'Yes, Captain.' He shook his head her in amazement, 'Where has this funny Vulcan been for the past two years? Why doesn't anyone know Vulcans are funny?'

'Not all Vulcans are. Just like Humans. Some have a sense of humor, some do not. Though I believe that humans would classify Vulcan humor as extremely dry.'

'I'd agree with that. Does anyone notice?'

She shrugged, 'I believe Hoshi suspects. You and Commander Tucker are not sure what you are hearing.'

He smiled, 'I love you.'

"Are you sure?" At that comment, they both looked up. They had temporarily forgotten he had told someone to come in.

"Trip, I'm sorry. Please sit down. We were just...talking."

T'Pol joined in, "Commander, Trip..." An eyebrow raised at him, and he nodded his permission.

"Trip, please join us. We would like to thank you for today."

Archer smiled at her, pleased with her attempt to be more friendly. He had no doubt that once it came to the ship, she would revert to Sub-Commander without a blink of an eye.

'Of course.' Nodding, 'Of course.'

"Any problems today, Trip?"

"Nope, no problems. We're still in that empty zone that T'Pol had identified. We should be reaching the next solar system in about 2 weeks."

"Good. Good." Archer looked back at T'Pol.

"Oh, Trip. Is there anyway my quarters space can be increased by half?"

Trip looked back and forth between the two. "I'll look into it." They really weren't paying much attention to him.

Amused, he stood up, "Good night, see you on the bridge tomorrow."

CONTINUED IN PART 22 Traditions, part 22 Author: Witezon@aol.com Pairing: A/T Rating: PG-13 Everything belongs to Paramount/UPN.

END OF SEPTEMBER - BRIDGE

Almost two months had passed since they had bonded. There were a few missteps, but it was absolutely wonderful. Trip finally figured out how to give the Captain and T'Pol more space. They moved LT Reed out of his quarters and into T'Pol's. Then he took down the wall between the two cabins. Problem solved. Some members of the crew had given them incredulous, or perhaps even occasional frowning looks, but generally everyone accepted this new development.

True to her word, T'Pol was trying to be more demonstrative to Jonathon in public, at least when they weren't on duty. She wouldn't use any Vulcan endearments, but she would lay her hand lightly on his arm or put her hand in the crook of his arm or they would touch in the Vulcan gesture. The crew was surprised to see it, but as the touches were so restrained, they seemed acceptable for a Vulcan.

They were past the empty space between solar systems and were in a small solar system. None of the planets were Minshara class, but gaseous. It was noted in their science logs and they went onto the next one. They arrived 2-days later.

They were scanning the planets when suddenly T'Pol's head shot up and she looked around the bridge with both eyebrows raised - searching for something. She realized that Jonathon was trying to get her attention, both vocally and through their bond. Everyone was watching her.

"T'Pol? What is it?" He could feel her confusion - she didn't know what was wrong.

"I do not know, Captain." 'Stupid question - sorry.' He could tell she was searching telepathically for something. Now she was staring at the view screen. They all looked at it, but saw nothing.

"Sub-Commander, can you explain your behavior?"

She raised her hand, indicating for him to wait. 'Jonathon, there is something...someone that I am sensing, telepathically. I should not be able to do that.'

She suddenly fully shielded their link and he was up and out of his chair going to her. She paled and held onto her station. He could tell she was mentally gritting her teeth.

No one knew what was going on, but Reed decided that if the Sub-Commander was looking for something, something was probably there and put the ship on alert standby.

"Sub-Commander, report." He couldn't reach her through the link, so he used his command persona to do it. But he was scared, this wasn't normal.

She tried and the strain showed in her voice making it sound harsh, "Captain, there is an intelligence on one of these planets. I can sense it, telepathically."

"Telepathically?" Trip said that as he walked out of the 'lift. He walked over to Jon who was standing across from T'Pol, feeling helpless as he watched her battle with something.

Archer nodded at Hoshi as he held himself still trying to send her whatever help he could.

In the background, "Dr Phlox, please report to the Bridge. Ensign Womack, please report to the bridge."

It didn't seem possible, but T'Pol turned even paler, highlighting her green tinged skin. She stood up and Archer slowly went around to her. She looked at him in surprise and fell into a dead faint. He was barely able to catch her before she hit the deck.

He picked her up and turned to look at Reed, "Lt. Polarize the hull. I don't know what's out there, but let's be prepared." T'Pol was unconscious. He knew she was still alive, but that's it.

Womack rushed out of the 'lift, quickly took in the situation and sat down at T'Pol's station, running checks. "Ensign, I want to know what each of those planets are and everything you can tell me about them. Get help if you need it." She nodded as she looked at the Sub-Commander. She really did respect T'Pol. She was a tough superior, but fair, and she was learning a lot about being a science officer.

Phlox came out of the next 'lift. He quickly pointed his scanner at her, then readjusted it for Vulcan mental pathways.

"Captain, we need to get her to Sickbay. I have to run some tests." Phlox looked at him sympathetically. He had nothing to tell him.

Archer nodded, "Trip, you have the bridge. I'll be in Sickbay. I want some answers. Sato, Reed, Mayweather, help Womack. Run every scan you can think of."

They all nodded as Archer, Phlox, and T'Pol left the bridge.

They looked at each other, very concerned about T'Pol and the Captain. They didn't have any idea what was going on, but they'd trust them.

Reed finally spoke up, "Commander, the Sub-Commander mentioned something about sensing something telepathically?"

Tucker sat down in the Captain's chair, 'Great. How am I going to keep my promise and let the bridge do their job?'

Sighing and figuring that Archer and T'Pol will understand, "Well, let's hypothetically say, there's this group of people who don't like to touch other people. They stick their hands behind their back, in their sleeves, step back from folks. Other people assume they're just arrogant. And they may be, but there's more than arrogance happening. What do you think it could be?"

Silence, then Travis spoke up, "Well, rumors have always circulated around the universe that this hypothetical species are telepathic. I've never known anyone to confirm it, and asking them won't get you an answer. They just look at you, arrogantly."

Womack wasn't learning from T'Pol for nothing, "Well, if this hypothetical people stick their hands behind their backs or in their sleeves or step back other species, and there are rumors that they are telepathic, then that could indicate that they are touch telepaths."

This time Hoshi said, "If this species were touch telepaths and suddenly another species was trying to communicate with them and they didn't need to touch, then it could hurt the first species."

They all thought about that. Reed added his thoughts, "Yes, but if that second species noticed another species was telepathic, touch or not, they could use that to try to get information and attack that first species."

Tucker looked at everyone, they were a good team. "So, then the first species that was being communicated with or attacked could end up in Sickbay."

They all fell silent as they realized that T'Pol could be seriously hurt by whatever happened.

"Okay, folks, let's do what the Captain asked and get him that information. We've got a good premise, as T'Pol would say. Let's see if we can prove it."

IN SICKBAY

Archer gently laid T'Pol down on the diagnostic bed that Phlox had pointed at. He stepped back trying not to get in the way, but still watching and also trying to feel her through the bond.

She was there and that gave him some comfort, but he couldn't talk to her or even exchange emotions. Finally Phlox was finished running his tests.

He stepped back to the Captain and said softly, "Captain, something has activated her telepathic pathways." He brought up a schematic of her pathways. "You see those red ones? That's not natural for Vulcans. That's long range telepathy and Vulcans can only do that with their bond mates. Someone or something outside of her is forcing that. My guess would be that she's fighting whatever that is, since she has slipped into a coma."

Archer jerked round to him, "Coma? But I can feel her."

Phlox looked interested at that, "You can? What do you feel?"

Archer cleared his mind like she had taught him and concentrated on her. He could feel her presence, it was just far away. He could try to force open the link, but he didn't want to do that unless it was necessary, plus he wasn't sure he could. He explained that to Phlox.

"I see. Since she closed the bond to only allow you to feel her presence, then I would suggest she's protecting you from whatever is happening to her. It may actually help to let her concentrate on fighting whatever it is, or you may need to open the link and give her some support."

He walked back over to her and took her hand. "Can you do anything?"

"Yes." Phlox walked over to his injectors and pulled two out and filled them with something. "I'll give her some supplements and electrolytes to help keep her systems up." He injected her. "I don't want to give her any sedatives, because that may cause more problems. We'll just have to wait and see."

Archer continued to stare at his mate, his wife, "For how long? Should we contact Vulcan?"

Phlox nodded, "I'll send a query to Vulcan immediately. There really isn't enough information about Vulcan telepathy to do much more than guess." Shaking his head, "They are such a private people." He put the injectors back on the table and came to stand with Archer.

"If her readings stay stable, I would suggest that we leave her this way for a couple of hours. If nothing happens, then I would want you to try to open the bond with her."

Archer nodded. "Captain, since you're already in contact with her, you can return to the bridge and see what you can find out. You'll probably know something before I would. I won't leave her."

Jonathon immediately felt anger, then resignation. Phlox was right. He couldn't do anything here, but perhaps he could on the bridge trying to find an answer. He said softly, "You won't leave her?"

"No, Captain, I won't." "Thanks, Doc." He leaned down, kissed her, and quickly left Sickbay. At least he could feel her presence, that was some consolation.

BRIDGE

Archer stalked back on the bridge. "Report."

Trip quickly got up from his chair and Archer sat down. "Jon, how's T'Pol?"

He looked around and saw the concern in everyone's face, "She's in a coma."

The bridge got very still, "What does Phlox say?"

Archer picked at his chair arm, "We'll wait a few hours and see what happens."

Trip quickly told Archer what they formulated. He sadly smiled at how they got around the Vulcan privacy issue.

Over the next hour they scanned and analyzed all the planets. Archer kept checking on T'Pol through their link.

"Captain," Womack looked up excitedly, "Its not the planets in the system, but the moons of the 4th planet. They're Minshara class, too."

Hoshi broke in, "Captain, we're getting a reply to Dr Phlox's message to Vulcan and I'm directing it to Sickbay now." She looked surprised, then said, "Captain, they're requesting your presence in Sickbay to hear the message."

He nodded, "Trip, you have the bridge," and he was gone.

They all looked at him for an explanation. But he wasn't going to explain about the bond, that wasn't anyone's business unless Jon or T'Pol told them.

He shrugged. "Womack, what about those moons?"

CONTINUED IN PART 23 Traditions, part 23 Author: Witezon@aol.com Pairing: A/T Rating: PG-13 Everything belongs to Paramount/UPN.

Arched strode into Sickbay and went directly to T'Pol. Her presence hadn't changed in his mind. He looked at Phlox.

"Why did they ask that I listen to the message?"

"Well, Captain, I may have told them you were bonded with the Sub- Commander."

Archer stared at him. "What? Why? We hadn't made a decision of when to tell Starfleet or the Vulcan High Command."

Phlox looked at him, "Captain, I'm sorry, but they wouldn't give me an answer if there wasn't someone here who was bonded with her or at least telepathic. This isn't a medical problem, its a telepathy problem and only telepathic races can help."

Archer nodded sharply, "Alright. This is just...very stressful."

Phlox smiled and brought the message up. On screen, T'Lar appeared. "Doctor Phlox, Captain Archer. We understand that T'Pol is in a coma while under some type of outside telepathic communications or attack. We expect this coma to be the kan-sorn, which T'Pol induced herself as a self-defense mechanism."

T'Lar seemed to look right at him, "Captain Archer, we understand from Doctor Phlox that you and T'Pol are bonded. Based on my previous deductions, I am going to assume that it is kali-farr."

She paused for a moment, "She can exist in kan-sorn for a month, but will die if she does not come out within that time. We concur with Doctor Phlox's suggestion. You will need to enter T'Pol's mind to determine whether she has been able to subdue the problem, but is too exhausted and cannot return to consciousness or whether the problem still exists and she should remain in kan-sorn until it is has been resolved. As her Adun, the decision will be yours. Depending on how long she has already been in kan- sorn, I would recommend that you wait until 1700 hours your ship time. She may gather sufficient energy by that time to open the bond again."

He thought he imagined that T'Lar smiled, "Welcome to the family, Jonathon. It will be interesting. T'Lar out."

Archer looked at T'Pol and reached out in the link to her. It was still shielded, and there was no change - still.

Phlox looked at him, "That's quite an impressive Vulcan family you've married into - did you know that T'Lar was a relation to T'Pol?"

"No, she never explained who her family was - is. But right now all I'm concerned about is T'Pol. We can talk about in-laws when she's awake." He ran his hand through his hair, "But at least we know that for now she's alright."

He glanced at the chronometer, "Its 1400 hours. We've got 3 hours before I try to open the link between T'Pol and myself."

Phlox looked over at him, "Captain, how are you doing?"

"I'm afraid that whatever is wrong with T'Pol, we won't be able to figure out."

Walking over to the bed he gently ran his hand over her hair, "I never thought that I would feel like this about anyone. She's everything to me, a part of me. If she dies, I don't know what I'll do," he softly admitted.

Phlox smiled, "I'm very glad to hear that. I don't think she'll die. You'll either pull her back tonight or remove the problem and get her back."

Archer smiled at him, a feral smile. "You're damn right. I'm going to the bridge. Don't leave her alone. I'm..."

Phlox raised his hand, "I know, you're just a thought away."

BRIDGE

Trip got up again when Jon returned to the bridge.

Archer looked around the bridge, "We've got 3 hours to determine if this is an attack or merely communications and stop it."

Trip asked, "How's T'Pol? Did the message from Vulcan tell you anything?"

"Yes, they told me what to do, and we've got 3 hours. What about those moons?"

Womack replied, "Sir, we did discover that the 6 moons of the 4th planet are capable of sustaining life."

Archer turned his chair to Womack, "Ensign, do any of these moons have any life on them? Do they have any technology that we can detect?"

As Womack began to tell him that only 3 moons had any technology they could detect, he automatically tried to touch T'Pol through the bond. Disappointed, he was about to withdraw then he felt something. Far away was a flicker. He focused on that. 'T'Pol?' He felt nothing, 'T'Pol?'

Finally he felt her presence. It was very tired, he could tell she was just barely holding on. Then he barely heard, '3d moon...Device...trap...stop'

Womack stopped briefing him when she realized he wasn't paying attention. Tucker waved at her to wait.

'Aisha, rest. I'll stop this device that's hurting you. I love you.'

He felt her reach for more energy and he sent her some, 'Cherish thee...device hurts...telepaths...killed many.'

He clenched his hands on his chair as he felt her retreat again until it was only her presence there. His face had gone from surprise to happiness then to controlled anger and the crew waited.

"Captain? Are you alright?" Trip had walked over to his chair.

Archer nodded, "Yeah, I am." He looked around the room, "We're looking for a machine on the 3d moon. It attacks telepaths, killing them. Malcolm, make weapons ready. Travis, the 3d moon, move us in closer, but not to close. Womack run your scans, find that machine."

They moved in closer to the 3d moon, scanning it. It was unpopulated, but appeared to have ruins on the surface.

Hoshi spoke up, "Captain, we're being hailed by the 6th moon."

"Put it on, Ensign."

On-screen appeared a humanoid figure. It had brown skin, with long blondish hair, and black eyebrows and eyes. It reminded him of a bird - a hawk. The figure was dressed in what appeared to be a colorful robe.

After a few false starts, the UT was able to decipher the words. "Greetings. I am Singh Tor. Regent of this world, Amagh. We do not get many visitors to this area of space. May I ask what you are doing here?"

Archer leaned back in his chair, "Thank you. I am Jonathon Archer, Captain of the Starship Enterprise. We are explorers from the planet Earth. We are interested in the 3d satellite circling the planet."

Singh Tor looked at him appraisingly. Archer watched him, definitely a hawk. After a few moments, "That world has caused interest from several different species, but you have probably noticed that it is an empty world. What is your interest in it?"

Jonathon stared back at him. He took a chance, "There seems to be a device there - a machine-"

He broke off at Singh Tor's nod, "Captain, you are looking for the 'Caveck.' Many species have wanted the 'Caveck,' but the question is, does the 'Caveck' want you?"

Archer frowned, was he being played with? "Regent, apparently the Caveck wants one of my crew."

That admission broke the ice. Singh Tor relaxed, but more in keeping with the formal relaxation that Vulcans portray. "I see. That may explain why the Mind Readers of my world are not under attack. Your Mind Reader must be extremely strong to supplant them."

Archer froze in his seat. "Regent, can you tell me about the 'Caveck'? How do I stop it? I want my...Mind Reader back."

"Captain, we have not found a way to stop the 'Caveck,' but we have a shield that lessens the attack. You are welcome to bring your Mind Reader into the shelter, it may help."

Considering that, "Regent, what can you tell us about the 'Caveck'?"

He shrugged, "We do not know who built it or who even populated that planet. It is safe for non-Mind Readers, and we have a station at the 'Caveck' studying it. You are welcome to send someone there. You are also welcome to review what we currently have documented on the 'Caveck'."

"You are being very helpful, and I appreciate and thank you for it. But why? You don't know us."

Singh Tor sighed, "Captain, we have lost almost all of our Mind Readers. Our Mind Readers are also our healers. Their life essence is siphoned away by the 'Caveck' until they are gone. Visitors to this space, with their own Mind Readers, have also had theirs absorbed. Our historical data estimates that over 1 thousand Mind Readers, of many species, have been lost over the last 300 years, and no one has been able to stop it."

"No one?" Archer sat motionlessly. "What if we move out of the solar system?" Singh Tor shook his head. "No, others have tried it, yet their Mind Readers were still taken. Once the 'Caveck' has found a Mind Reader it does not give them up."

"However, there was one species that we felt was close to solving this problem. Unfortunately, they died before they were able to complete it. We have their records, but we are unable to decipher their words. Perhaps you can."

He gestured to someone who stood behind him. "We show this to all of those affected by the 'Caveck' to see if they can understand this sign."

He showed them the sign he was given. 'ITISHA IYA ARIE'

They knew Vulcan when they saw it. They looked at Hoshi for a translation.

She swallowed, "Sir, it says 'Hungry for emotion.'

CONTINUED IN PART 24 Traditions, part 24 Author: Witezon@aol.com Pairing: A/T Rating: PG-13 Everything belongs to Paramount/UPN.

Archer, Phlox, Tucker, Hoshi, Womack, and T'Pol went down to Amagh. Malcolm and Bagera stayed on the ship running scans on 'Caveck' from orbit. Singh Tor and his aids met them at the landing site and took them directly to the shelter.

Archer carried T'Pol, who was still unconscious, into the shelter. Phlox had kept up her injections of vitamin supplements and electrolytes, as she was depleting her system fighting the telepathic attack. The shelter was a structure that was reminiscent of a Vulcan structure but weaved with, what they guessed was, the local population's design. Once inside they saw several chairs, tables, and computer equipment. There were beds along one wall. Also inside were other individuals who looked like Singh Tor. They varied in colors of brown, gold, and russet. A female approached Archer.

"Captain Archer?" He nodded. "I am Tarrath. This is T'Pol? She is a Vulcan?" She came closer to look at her. "Yes, I can see she is. You may lay her down on one of the beds. We hope she may wake soon inside the shelter."

Staring at her, "I hope so, too." Tarrath watched him as he laid T'Pol on the nearest bed and gently ran his hand over her brow and down the side of her face. He slowly turned away and returned to Hoshi, Trip, and Womack.

Tarrath was showing them the data and the equipment the Vulcans had developed and had been working on. As they dug in to the research, Tarrath approached Archer.

"Captain, may I ask you something?"

In surprise, "Yes."

"The Vulcan Mind Reader, she is important to you?" She tilted her head at a sharp angle, in curiosity.

He paused a moment before he answered, "Yes, she is my mate."

Nodding, "Ah, I thought so. Perhaps we will be able to find a way to stop the 'Caveck'."

They walked back to the researchers, "I also lost my mate a year ago. The only place we are safe is in the shelter. With your mate protecting us, we are able to help others. They are only 50 Mind Readers left on our entire world. Once we were a third of the population."

"I don't understand why anyone would have the 'Caveck' trap Mind Readers. It doesn't make sense."

"Captain, sometimes those who do evil, have no other intention than evil." They each went back - one to the research table and the other to where Trip was investigating the shield mechanism.

Trip shook his head, he needed more time to find out what it was doing and how it was doing it. This was very complex Vulcan engineering.

An hour had passed and Hoshi said in frustration, "Some of the most important documents are in ancient Vulcan. I can't read ancient Vulcan. Why would they put it into ancient Vulcan! Who reads ancient Vulcan anymore? I don't know anyone who does!" "Perhaps I can assist you."

Everyone turned to look at T'Pol. Archer quickly crossed the room to her bed. He sat down, taking her hand. He realized that the bond was still closed. He frowned. "Are you alright?"

Phlox also came over and was running his scanner over her. He didn't like the readings he was seeing.

Before she could answer, Phlox asked, "Sub-Commander, what are you doing and how are you doing it?"

Everyone had gathered around her and Jonathon realized how pale and shaky she was. He moved around behind her and pressed her back against him. He supported her, both physically and mentally, sending her energy through the small aperture that remained of their bond.

She settled against him, relaxing into him, loving him and the care he gave her. "Doctor, I am unsure."

She looked over at Hoshi, who handed her a datapad. She rested it on her lap and slowly read the entries.

It took her 20 minutes to read the first pad, at least half again as long as it would normally.

Finally, "This pad contains the theory behind developing the shield. T'Ran and S'Kel believed that the 'Caveck' was a thinking machine. Sentient. For some reason, left behind by an elder race and over time...lost its sentience."

Everyone in the room initially couldn't even comprehend what she said, then Archer asked in shock, "T'Pol, the 'Caveck' is alive? Some elder race built it, abandoned it, and it went crazy?"

She nodded once, "That is their theory." She took a shallow breath and he clutched her back against him.

"Who or what is an elder race?! Damn it, what else haven't you Vulcans told us?" Trip yelled out in frustration.

Archer glared at him, "Commander."

T'Pol looked at Tucker, and her look almost crushed him. There was hardly anything left of the arrogant Vulcan he knew and enjoyed arguing with. The strain of fighting the 'Caveck' was killing her. But then if she gave in it would kill her, too.

Singh Tor and Tarrath had also come over, "Yes. T'Ran and S'Kel also told my father the same. They explained the theory that elder races initially populated and seeded most of the humanoid worlds, but for some reason they hadn't discovered yet, had withdrawn to somewhere else. They occasionally left ruins on worlds now empty of life."

Trip looked very upset, but not at T'Pol, for her. "T'Pol, I'm sorry. But this is crazy. There's a psychotic machine over there killing telepaths and we don't know how to stop it or how this shield works."

She looked at Trip and he saw she understood. She closed her eyes and said, "But we do know why this is happening."

"What do you mean?" Jonathon was scared he was going to loose T'Pol. He looked up at Phlox for help. "Captain, Denoblia also has heard of these seeders and I believe that I understand what T'Pol is saying. The 'Caveck' was lonely. It was abandoned, perhaps on purpose or perhaps they were coming back for it and never could. But it lost its mind over the centuries of being alone."

He walked closer to T'Pol running his scanner over her, then Tarrath. "Perhaps the elders were telepathic and the 'Caveck' is searching out those with like telepathy. It wants company."

T'Pol nodded her agreement.

"Would you give me another pad?" She read 6 pads over the next two hours. She tired easily and Archer wouldn't let her push herself back into a coma.

"T'Pol, go slowly. I need you to tell us what T'Ran and S'Kel were trying to build, so we can stop the 'Caveck'."

She was so very tired, but an inkling of an idea had crept into her mind. She looked at the walls. "Jonathon, would you please turn me around to look at the walls?"

He looked confused, "The walls? Sure." He picked her up and they turned around. This time he sat her on his lap and they were close to the walls. She looked at them with a faraway look in her eyes.

Trip came over, she had given him some information and he was able to determine some of the workings, and he wanted more.

"Cap'n, she was right. The shield is vibrating in the 4th dimension and also corresponds with the pathways telepaths use. Phlox confirmed that. Its absolutely crazy, and I can't explain it, let alone build one."

Archer felt her stiffen. She had a pad in her hand, reading it, and looking at the wall.

He leaned his mouth against her head, "What is it?"

She turned to look at him with a look of absolute surprise and shock on it. She looked down and it was gone. She looked back up at him.

"Jonathon, I believe I understand what they were going to do, but were not able to complete the process. But I do not know how to do it either."

He shook his head in frustration, "We've got to figure it out. Tell me what you do know."

He felt her sigh, "We need to increase the power to the shield so that it goes into the 'Caveck'."

"How?"

She shrugged, continuing to look at the walls. Hoshi walked over, "T'Pol, I keep running into the word 'katra,' what does it mean?"

"It is the Vulcan soul."

She had closed her eyes again, and Archer and Hoshi exchanged concerned looks. He looked up at Phlox.

'Jonathon, when a Vulcan dies, our soul - our consciousness does not die. The katra is transmitted to another family member and contributes to the Vulcan awareness. In humans it is called the Great Unconscious where the knowledge of all times is kept. Some humans can access it, most cannot. All on Vulcan can access it.'

Archer didn't know how to be more shocked, 'Okay.' He paused, then, 'We can talk about that later. Why are you telling me this?' He realized that she had opened their bond up.

Everyone was watching them, Trip muttered, "They're at it again." Phlox kept scanning, he wanted to document it for future reference.

'T'Ran and S'Kel weren't able to add their katras to the Vulcan consciousness. I believe they are here.' He felt her telepathic gesture to the walls.

"In the walls?" This he said out loud.

"Cap'n?" Archer waved at Trip to wait.

'Yes, but to be sure, I need to touch the walls. Enter a mind-meld. If I am correct, then we need to release them to go to the 'Caveck' and merge with it.'

Feeling his uneasiness and concern over her past history with mind melds, she said, 'Aisha, I cherish thee. But I cannot continue this way. Many others will die because of the 'Caveck.' I will die, I can feel my life force draining away.'

He clutched her to him, scaring the others as she hadn't opened her eyes yet. Phlox knew she wasn't dead, but it still concerned him.

"Captain, is there anything we can do?" Trip quietly asked.

'I need to meditate, make myself ready to enter a mind-meld with T'Ran and S'kel. It will only take a short while, then I will reach out and touch the wall.'

Archer was extremely frustrated. Telepathy and telepathic machines weren't in his realm of experience. But he concentrated on that, rather than T'Pol possibly dying. They had shared thoughts and emotions and he knew what she felt and why. He didn't like it, but he couldn't think of another alternative.

He finally let go, 'I cherish thee, T'hy'la. Please come back to me.'

She opened her eyes, 'I cherish thee, Aisha. I plan on returning to you.'

He slowly got up and gently put her back down on the bed, close to the wall. They shared an intimate look before she finally closed her eyes and the bond, again. He hated that. He never wanted her to do it again.

He backed away and stood beside Trip and Phlox. He explained her theory and what she was going to do. Trip looked dumb-struck, Phlox just kept his scanner out, continually monitoring her.

CONTINUED IN PART 25 Traditions, part 25 Author: Witezon@aol.com Pairing: A/T Rating: PG-13 Everything belongs to Paramount/UPN.

T'Pol centered herself and entered into a calm, meditative state. She was letting herself rest in the no-where/everywhere place of meditation. Without opening her eyes, she sat up and placed both hands gently on the wall.

As she touched the wall and slowly opened her shields specifically towards the wall, she felt a welcoming touch. 'Greetings, young cousin. We were hoping that you would be able to help us save the Amagh and other telepathic species.'

'Greetings, cousins. I appreciate your assistance with decreasing the attack against my mind. What can I do to help you?'

T'Ran and S'Kel passed onto T'Pol what they had planned on doing, but were unable to complete as they lost their strength to resist the 'Caveck'.

After they had completed that, the meld changed into one of family, 'Cousin, we see another in your mind. May we know who he is?' There wasn't any censure in their question, only curiosity.

'He is Jonathon Archer, Captain of the Earth-ship Enterprise. He is also my adun. We are bonded.' She waited for their response.

Gentle amusement, 'Young one, we do not have any dislike of your adun, whether he is a Vulcan or Human. We can sense the trueness of your bond and only honor you for having the courage to accept it, rather than bend to some Vulcan's prejudice.' Thoughtfully they examined her mind, 'Ah, humans will have the same concerns?'

Truthfully, 'Yes, we had discussed the different problems we could encounter, including having children, and came to the decision that our bond, and the time we will have together, is worth the possible problems that may arise.'

'Again, we honor you for your choices. It truly reflects Vulcan IDIC. May we meet your bondmate?'

Jonathon and Phlox were still watching. Trip, Hoshi and the others went back to work after 20 minutes. The meld had now gone on for 30 minutes.

Jonathon felt their bond open, 'Jonathon, T'Ran and S'Kel would like to meet you. They are my 3d level cousins. Will you meet them using the mind- meld?'

His relief at hearing her in the bond changed to surprise, 'Cousins? T'Ran and S'Kel are your cousins?' Mentally shrugging, 'Sure, why not. What do you want me to do?'

After she told him, he turned to Phlox, "Doctor, I'm going to enter into a meld with T'Pol and T'Ran and S'Kel. It seems they were - are - whatever - cousins- 3d level, whatever that means."

Phlox smiled, "More family? That's very interesting. First T'Lar and now T'Ran and S'Kel. I wonder who else T'Pol is related to?"

At Archer's glare, he nodded, "I will monitor the meld."

Jonathon walked over and sat down beside T'Pol. She took one hand from the wall and softly touched Jonathon at the meld points along the side of his face.

Her touch was warm, something it hadn't been all day long. The struggle had even taken the warmth of her body.

Suddenly, it wasn't just T'Pol any longer. 'Greetings, Jonathon. We welcome you to the family.'

Jonathon was momentarily taken aback, he was used to T'Pol and the warmth she projected into his mind. This was also warmth, but different.

T'Pol explained, 'It is the family meld, not entered into often, but enough to know one another.'

He mentally nodded, 'Thank you, T'Ran, S'Kel. I'm not sure what to expect or what I should do, so please excuse anything I do that's not right.'

'Jonathon, please do not worry, there is very little not acceptable in the family bond. Except yelling.' He felt amusement at that, but it wasn't offensive, it was like being teased by family.

'Jonathon, we can see your questions about Vulcans. We hope you do not mind. Perhaps we can answer some of them.'

He nodded, 'I appreciate that. As T'Pol knows,' suddenly he felt her warmth and smiled, 'I'm concerned about the reaction of other Vulcans, and how it will affect her and us.'

'That is a valid concern, and while we have no concerns about your bond, others might. We already told T'Pol that we can sense the trueness of your bond and now that you are together we can see its wholeness. As we have already passed on, we cannot authenticate it, but you can use our names as testifiers.'

'How is this possible if you've already passed on?'

'We know T'Pol has begun the explanation of our katras, but perhaps she hasn't mentioned that our consciousness remains aware. The katras are passed to family members moments prior to death and the family member passes the katra to the Hall of Souls.'

Archer and T'Pol waited to hear more, 'In our case, we had no one to transfer our katras to, but we knew we could at least assist the Amaghs if we were able to transfer our katras into the shield.'

T'Pol asked, 'Was there an intermediary?'

They felt affectionate approval, 'Yes, you have been studying the transfusion of souls. This should make this even easier. We propose that you lead, Jonathon anchor, and the Amaghs provide the power.'

'Anchor? What are you asking us?'

This time T'Pol provided the answer, 'Jonathon, in order to send T'Ran and S'Kel into the 'Caveck', we will need to increase the telepathic power. I am Vulcan as are T'Ran and S'Kel, therefore, I will lead the push. You are...determined and forceful, and are my bondmate, you will anchor so that I do not get lost. The Amaghs, if they agree, will augment my push with their telepathic power. This will increase our percentages of success.'

They could feel him thinking this over, 'If we're not successful, what happens?'

Silence. Then T'Pol said gently, 'Then the original prognosis will still occur.' Jonathon's emotions erupted all over them, T'Pol was not going to die if he had anything to do with it.

This time he felt affectionate amusement, 'Jonathon, once we have merged with the 'Caveck,' we should be able to assist if needed.'

'Will the 'Caveck' accept you?'

'The percentage is very high that the 'Caveck' will initially assume an attack, then once it realizes what our intentions are, will accept us.'

Jonathon sighed, 'Alright, now what?'

There was a moment of silence, then T'Pol said, 'I will stay in the meld - it helps conserve my strength. Will you discuss this with the Amaghs?'

Nodding, 'Yes. When do you want to do this?'

T'Ran spoke, 'Jonathon, T'Pol will not last longer than another 12 hours. We need to start within the next two hours.'

Jonathon turned his focus on T'Pol; T'Ran and S'Kel withdrew to the background. Mentally, she pulled him closer to her, they said nothing, making their minds one. She slowly pushed him away, taking him out of the meld.

He opened his eyes to find he was looking at T'Pol. She still had her eyes closed, in a meditative state. Their bond was still narrow, but more open than it had been.

He looked around the room. Only Trip and Phlox watched him. The rest continued their work, taking surreptitious glances at him. He slowly got up, taking his time, he was slightly dizzy.

Trip grabbed his arm, "Captain?"

Phlox waved a scanner across him. "Captain, this should pass quickly, take some breaths."

Singh Tor had been silently watching, he walked across to Archer, "Captain? How is your mate?"

Archer looked up at him, smiling faintly, "My mate is...alright for now. But we need the help of your mind readers to stop the 'Caveck'."

Singh Tor listened to the plan, and said he would speak with his mind readers.

Twenty minutes later he returned. Archer left T'Pol's side to meet him. "Regent?"

Singh Tor looked at him steadily, "Captain, I discussed your plans with our Mind Readers. While we don't have another plan, the primary factor in their decision was that your mate is also a victim of the 'Caveck.' Our Mind Readers will enter into the meld."

Nodding his thanks, he went back to T'Pol. She opened her eyes and looked at him. "They'll do it."

She looked at him and, with his help, sat up. She looked stronger, but did she have any choice not to be?

She squeezed his hand and released it. They looked up and saw that the Mind Readers had gathered around them. So had Phlox and Trip. Trip nodded at him and went to watch the engine. His job was to ensure that it didn't stop working until they were finished. He hoped he could do it. Phlox was medically monitoring the group.

Looking at them, T'Pol asked, "Do you understand what you are being asked to do?"

Tarrath nodded, "Yes, you will lead and transfer the katras of T'Ran and S'Kel, we will power the transfer, and Jonathon will be the anchor."

T'Pol looked at Jonathon, then at each one of them. "Then let us begin."

They gathered around her. "Jonathon, I will gather you into the meld last. I want you to imagine that you are anchoring yourself into the ground. The anchor does not break, its chain merely moves with the motion of the waves."

He swallowed, nodded, and sat down next to her. T'Pol placed her hand on Tarrath's face at the meld points. Tarrath then reached out with her hand to a Mind Reader, each of them took each other's hand and a chain was borne. T'Pol then placed her other hand on Jonathon's meld points and pushed open their bond, drawing in the chain. He felt full and it increased as T'Pol gently joined the Minder Readers and himself into the chain. He felt T'Ran and S'Kel gently brush his mind in greeting.

He heard T'Pol call his name. It sounded far away. 'Jonathon, push into the ground and hold there.'

He took a breath and did. It was the hardest thing he had ever done. He felt them wait for him to anchor, then after a few moments, he felt them begin to expand out.

It was like watching summer lighting. Soundlessly they flew away from him in arches of light, streaking quickly away from him. He knew that the lead light was T'Pol and he assumed the lights on each side of her were T'Ran and S'Kel. The Mind Readers were directly behind her, and he far behind them.

He felt T'Pol, along with T'Ran and S'Kel, penetrate the 'Caveck.' For a few seconds there was nothing, then a wild, powerful backlash struck them. He reeled with the pain, he didn't know what to expect and mind pain wasn't it, but he held his grip. The Mind Readers flickered, also in pain. Then they pushed back, giving more strength to T'Pol. He could barely feel her, she was so far away.

A battle waged, the Vulcans struck again and again against 'Caveck's' shield trying to find a way in. Everyone was tiring, but they fought on. They had no choice. If they failed, they all died and the 'Caveck' continued to take Mind Readers.

Phlox watched them fight the battle for 15 minutes and noted that their energy levels were quickly depleting. Singh Tor and Trip came over.

"Doc, what's happening?" Trip kept looking at the engine. It was fine, it spiked and returned to normal about 10 times already.

"Regent, Commander, they are expending mental energy quickly. If they can't end it soon, I don't know if they'll make it back."

Singh Tor looked at him, "Doctor, if they don't succeed, they won't return. Perhaps your Captain, but that is all."

Trip whispered, "Shit."

"Indeed," was Phlox's reply.

T'Pol felt their strength diminishing and tried a different approach, 'Caveck? Do you hear me?' She quickly thought at T'Ran and S'kel and they made ready.

She tried again, 'Caveck, do you hear me?'

The 'Caveck' hadn't been spoken to in this manner for over 300 years. It paused, and at that moment, T'Ran and S'Kel pushed through, powered by T'Pol and the others.

Another moment passed and there was silence. They all waited. They continued to wait and conserve their strength.

Phlox noticed the pause and looked at Singh Tor. "Regent, something has happened. They appear to have stopped using mental energy."

"What does that mean?"

Shrugging, "Perhaps they are waiting for something."

Trip shook his head. The Vulcan engine was powering the shield without problem. They couldn't do anything but wait.

Suddenly the walls went dark, followed by the shelter itself. Trip ran back to the engine. It was working, but powered nothing. Everyone stopped their work and waited for the emergency lighting to kick in.

It did. But it was the thin, sickly lighting that barely gives more than enough lighting to see to get out of the room. They waited and watched the others.

Tarrath and her Mind Readers twitched and began to open their eyes. They stared at T'Pol. Archer opened his eyes, also staring at T'Pol. He never let her go. He was still holding onto her and still anchoring.

He was getting scared. She was there, but wasn't coming back. 'T'Pol! T'Pol!' He shouted in the link.

He felt a flicker, but it sputtered out. 'T'Pol, Aisha! Come back!'

He felt something, "Captain, we will enter the link with you, but we can't reach all the way to her either. If you can get her to meet us halfway, we can pull her back.'

They pushed back out to T'Pol, getting halfway there. He kept calling her to come back. Nothing but flickers answered him and those quickly disappeared.

He waited - he couldn't give up, then a light streaked towards them and gently touched him. T'Pol.

'Jonathon, I heard you.' She caressed him and he wrapped himself mentally around her. 'Tarrath, you have my thanks for your help in succeeding with the 'Caveck'.'

They exchanged thanks and turned towards another streak of light coming towards them.

'Greetings.' The voice was a combination of T'Ran, S'Kel and something else.

'We are with what you call the 'Caveck'. We have merged. Our premise was correct. It was lonely. We will be able to control it and help it. It did not wish to kill, it wanted company. It would like to help the Amaghs.'

Tarrath examined the merged mind and found it to be sincere. 'We accept its offer. What should we call you?'

'S't'Veck. Our names are merged together, as we are merged. T'Pol, you are well?'

She felt them look over her. Jonathon also looked her over. 'Yes. Thank you for your assistance. I had not enough strength to come back.'

She felt Jonathon wrap them together even more tightly. She let him.

CONTINUED IN PART 26 Traditions, part 26 Author: Witezon@aol.com Pairing: A/T Rating: PG-13 Everything belongs to Paramount/UPN.

OCTOBER - AMAGH

They stayed in orbit for a week, and T'Pol slept for 3 days of that week. Jonathon was up after one. Tucker had command during that time and Singh Tor invited them to replenish their stores and take some shore leave on their islands.

Immediately after their return to the ship, Phlox checked them over and sent them to their quarters for rest. They stopped just inside the room and held each other . T'Pol pulled away to kiss him and gently run her fingers down the side of his face.

Her eyes had darkened circles beneath them, highlighting the greenish cast to her face. She looked beyond exhausted. He could feel it rolling off her.

"Jonathon, I cherish thee. What you were able to do today was courageous." She touched his face again, "You saved me today."

She faltered, he knew she had been running on borrowed strength, some of it was his.

He softly said, "Rest, Aisha. We can talk after you wake. I love you." After exchanging another long look, she went to get ready for bed. He had turned down the lights and sat on the bed.

When she was in bed, she whispered, "You are not going to rest?"

Jonathon touched her, he couldn't stop himself. It was as if he was reassuring himself that she was alright. That they were alright.

"I'm going to read for awhile. I'm still alittle wound up after everything today. You go ahead and rest." She nodded and closed her eyes.

Jonathon watched her. He felt her fall asleep. It was almost the second she closed her eyes. He mentally shook his head, just how much strength had she used up today? He sat there almost half an hour in the darkened room, just watching her.

But he couldn't rest, his mind was racing around and around. He couldn't stop thinking what they had done, what it had felt like, and how he almost lost T'Pol.

Through their bond, he could tell T'Pol was sleeping deeply and wouldn't wake-up unless it was a emergency - maybe.

Deciding he had to do something to tire himself out, he changed into his work out clothes and left T'Pol, and now Porthos, asleep on the bed. He figured he'd be the only one in the gym, but he was wrong. Trip and Hoshi were there.

Throwing his towel over the arm of a chair he asked them, "What's wrong? Can't sleep?" He went over to a treadmill and started walking.

"Nope. Guess you can't either. T'Pol asleep?"

Archer nodded and kept walking. Hoshi glanced at him. Nervously, "Captain, can you tell us what happened today?" He thought about that, "You know that some of this is private to Vulcans and I can't discuss it without talking to T'Pol first. But you already know we managed to repair the 'Caveck'."

She nodded, "But what exactly happened? What did you do? I understand you're bondmates with T'Pol and that gives you two some type of telepathy, but..."

She broke off at Archer's glare at Trip, "Trip?"

Shaking his head, "Nope, not me, Jon. Remember our premise?"

"Sir, I also figured that out from learning Vulcan. That includes their language history, and their language idioms. Which they don't have, by the way. I'm surprised they still don't speak ancient Vulcan and make everyone learn that, rather than they learn Terran."

Confused, Archer looked at her, "What?"

"Well, that some of their language has changed, but some concepts have stayed the same. I'd guess for centuries, so sometimes you can piece something together."

Frustrated, "Hoshi."

At his stare, "Okay, why did the walls go dark? What took so long with T'Pol, the mind readers and you? And why are we calling it S't'Veck now? Sir."

Trip looked at Jon and Trip answered her, "Well, the walls went dark when the power source was removed."

She looked at him, "Yes, I know that. But how was it removed? Is T'Pol going to be alright?"

Archer grinned at that, "Yeah, she'll be fine. She's just really exhausted." Taking a breath, "T'Pol and the others removed the power source and put it elsewhere. I was holding down the fort so no one would get lost."

She considered that and asked seriously, "But T'Pol almost got lost, didn't she?"

His jaw clenched. He was having a hard time dealing with that and needed to discuss it with T'Pol when she woke up.

"Yes, Ensign, she almost did." With Archer's tone formal, Trip touched Hoshi's arm and shook his head.

"Hey, Jon, we've been here about an hour, you've been here almost half that. Maybe you should go home and get some rest, too."

Sighing, he realized that he should, "Yeah, you're right. I'm tired. Hopefully, I've burned off enough energy to relax and get some sleep."

Getting his towel he wiped off his face, "Good Night."

Good nights followed him out. He touched his bond with T'Pol and she was still deeply asleep. He sighed in relief, it was so good to be able to fully feel her again. He quietly entered their quarters going straight to the shower.

When he got into bed with T'Pol, she slowly rolled over to rest her head on his shoulder. She slowly pulled the rest of her body to lay against his. Her warm body. Her warmth spread through him, all the way to his soul. Smiling, he finally relaxed and drifted off to sleep. THE NEXT MORNING

'What?' Jerking awake, he couldn't figure out what was wrong. Confusedly he looked around. He quickly turned to T'Pol, but she was still deeply asleep. He realized everything was okay, it was just later in the morning that usual.

The clock display said 1100.

He looked for Porthos, but couldn't find him. He stiffly, but quietly, got out of bed. 'Man, we must not have moved at all last night'. He covered T'Pol up to her ears with the blankets, and walked out into the next room.

Thankfully he had put on his robe. Trip was in their cabin and Hoshi was just outside the door.

"Hi guys, what'cha doing?" he whispered. They jumped, then looked at him like deer caught in headlights. They sheepishly smiled.

Trip whispered, "We've fed and walked Porthos. We didn't know when you were going to wake-up. Doctor Phlox said to give you at least 24-hours to rest up. How are ya' feelin'?"

Jon thought about that, "Pretty good. But really hungry."

Trip smiled, "If you want, we'll go with you. We haven't eaten yet either. I guess T'Pol is still asleep?"

Smiling, "Yeah, but doing well. Let me get dressed and we'll go." Which they did.

They had a leisurely lunch and went to check on the bridge. Trip told him what Singh Tor was providing - at no cost. He also said that when T'Pol was ready, he'd like them to come down to the planet again.

After dinner Jonathon realized he was getting tired and went back to their cabin. Where he found Porthos in bed with T'Pol again. Grinning, he got in bed.

"My bed, boy. You go to yours." Porthos whined, but got down. Porthos loved to sleep with T'Pol. It made Jonathon grin, but T'Pol always arched an eyebrow.

THE SECOND MORNING

T'Pol was still deeply asleep. Jonathon frowned as he dressed in his uniform and watched her. This was going to be the second day of straight sleep. Their bond reflected everything was alright. He sat down on the bed and gently brushed her forehead with his fingers. If he didn't have the bond, he would have been worried. He checked it one more time, before he left the cabin.

He ran into Trip in the Mess. "Good Morning, Jon. How are ya' doing this morning? T'Pol still asleep?"

Grinning, "Fine and yes." They talked about ship's business and went their separate ways after breakfast.

Archer stopped by Sick Bay on his way to the bridge. "Good Morning, Captain. You look much better today. How do you feel?" Phlox waved a scanner over him and nodded at the results.

"I feel fine. I don't want to run a marathon anytime soon, but good."

Phlox smiled, "Is the Sub-Commander still asleep?"

"Yeah. Doc, how long do you think she'll sleep?"

Phlox considered that, "Have you noticed anything wrong through your bond?"

Shaking his head, "No. She's just asleep." Grinning, "Porthos is really happy. As soon as I get out of bed, he gets in."

Smiling, "I'm sure the Sub-Commander will appreciate that. If she hasn't woken up by tomorrow morning, I'll come by and run some scans. Other than that, I wouldn't worry. The scans I ran when we returned to the ship indicated that she expended enough energy to run that marathon you spoke of, on top of already being weakened. So this is natural. As long as you don't notice anything, she should be fine."

Quirking his head to the side, "Captain, may ask you how you feel about that?"

"My knowing how she's doing?" Phlox nodded.

Thinking seriously about his answer, "It gives me a lot of security. I can touch her anytime of day or night, whether we're together or not. It also scares me to death, what would happen if one of us..." he broke off at the thought.

With an understanding smile, "Captain, that's the problem with all couples. You should consider yourself lucky that you are so connected to T'Pol. Treasure it. Most couples don't even have that level of security."

Looking at the floor, then up again, smiling, "Yeah, you're right Doc. It is a treasure."

With that he walked out and spent the day on the bridge and his Ready Room, getting caught up on the mundane and reading reports.

"Bridge to Captain Archer."

"Archer here, Hoshi, what's up?"

"Sir, the Regent is calling you. Shall I put him through?"

"No, I'll come out to the bridge."

When he entered, he nodded at Hoshi, "On screen, Ensign."

He sat down in his chair, "Good Afternoon, Regent. How are Tarrath and the mind readers?"

"Good Afternoon, Captain. They have woken up. But they are still tired and are resting. S't'Veck has opened communications with us and said that when they are ready, it is ready to help our sick and injured."

He paused, then "How is T'Pol?"

"She's still asleep, but doing fine. We expect her to awaken by tomorrow."

"Good, we were concerned. I hope you and she will come down to have dinner with us before you leave. You are honored guests and will always be welcome on Amagh."

Nodding, with a faint smile, "Thank you, Singh Tor. We would be honored to have dinner with you. And, thank you for allowing us to replenish our supplies and letting my people get some rest time on your islands."

Spreading his hands, "Captain, it is the least we can do. You and your mate took great risk to save us and our mind readers."

They ended the conversation with Archer promising to set up and date and time after T'Pol had woken.

Checking the bond, he shook his head, it was almost shift change and T'Pol was still asleep.

Archer went to the Mess Hall for dinner and then returned to their quarters. He quickly fed Porthos and took him for a walk. He wished T'Pol would wake up, but their bond said everything was alright, so he trusted it. He was still tired, so he went to sleep.

THE THIRD MORNING

Okay, now he was officially concerned. He was putting on his uniform and making 'a lot' of noise. She was still asleep, by tonight it was going to be 72-hrs of straight sleep. No one, not even Vulcans, can sleep for 3 days and nights straight.

He was going to call Phlox as soon as he was dressed.

'Aisha, Vulcans can sleep for 72-hrs straight, when the need is great.'

Smiling, he quickly turned around and went back into the bedroom, hoping to find T'Pol awake. She wasn't, but it wasn't the deep sleep of the last two days. It was what she normally felt like when she slept. He must have woken her with his thoughts.

He saw that Porthos had gotten into bed with T'Pol again. Shaking his head, he said softly, "Okay, but its your head when she finds out."

He went to the bridge, stopping by Sick Bay to tell Phlox that she had woken briefly and was now in a natural sleep.

Around 1300 he realized he hadn't eaten yet and had read the same report twice. Smirking at himself, he checked on T'Pol. Wasn't she ever going to wake-up? He started to get up from his chair.

'Jonathon?'

Archer got a relieved smile on his face, 'Aisha, you've been asleep for a long time. How do you feel?'

Trip had come to the bridge to drag Archer off, then noticed his face. Looking at Hoshi and Reed, he grinned, pointing at Archer, "I guess someone's awake." They watched him indulgently.

'I am still somewhat tired, but I am hungry. I am also missing you and Porthos is in bed with me."

At her complaint, his smile changed to a grin. 'I miss you, too. What if I have Chef make some lunch and I'll be there shortly?'

'I would like that.'

He could feel her tiredness through the link, but nothing like she was. 'Rest, love. I'll be there soon.' He made a few calls before he left the bridge to Lt Reed. They watched him leave, walking with a bounce in his step.

Hoshi looked at Trip and Reed. "I wasn't sure what was going to happen when they began their "exploration," but its really working out. He obviously loves her and I think she loves him, too."

Tucker nodded, "Yeah, I had my doubts, too. But look at them." He shook his head in amusement.

Reed agreed, "That first away team with the Sub-Commander was a dubious pleasure."

Trip snorted, "Yeah, I bet it was. Do you go with T'Pol all the time now?"

Nodding, "Most of the time. Not that she needs it, but she does get involved in her surveys."

Looking curiously at Tucker, "Commander, did the Captain look at you strangely the first few days after they got...married?'

Surprised, "Yeah. You, too?"

Reed nodded. Hoshi looked at them, confused. "What are you talking about?"

They looked at each other, then her. "Its nothin'."

She glared at him, "What?"

Trip sighed, "Just the Cap'n needed some time alone with the Sub-Commander and looked at the rest of the men as something to take her attention away...from him."

She almost sputtered, she was so surprised, "But T'Pol's a Vulcan! There's no way she'd ever do anything like that."

Trip rolled his eyes, "Yeah, he's gotten over it." Reed nodded in agreement.

Trip looked at Hoshi, "Well, Hoshi, how about some lunch? Malcolm's got the bridge and I'm hungry."

Archer walked into their quarters after stopping at the Mess hall to pick- up their lunch. Phlox was scanning T'Pol as he walked in.

"How's she doing, Doc?" He looked concerned.

"The Sub-Commander's doing well, but needs more rest. She has lost some weight, and you'll need to ensure she eats to gain it back."

Archer nodded. By this time, T'Pol's right eyebrow had arched so high as to almost disappear in her hair.

Dryly, "The Sub-Commander does understand that she must eat to regain the weight she lost. She also understands that she is still somewhat tired, but fully capable of speaking, and listening, for herself."

Chagrinned, they looked at her.

Then Jonathon grinned, "Yes, dear."

Phlox smiled, "Sorry, Sub-Commander. You're doing very well, but you don't have much reserve strength built up. You'll need to take it easy for the next day or two. I suggest that you not work tomorrow and only work a half day the next. I also want you to come into Sick Bay tomorrow. I would guesstimate that your Vulcan physiology will soon kick back in."

She nodded. "Thank you, Doctor."

He continued to smile, "Good day, call me if you need me," and left.

Archer looked at her and she at him. He gestured to the food. "We should eat."

Agreeing, "Yes." She gestured to the bed, "Since Porthos has decided to sleep with me, we should also be able to eat here."

He frowned, then quickly cleared his expression and mind, "Absolutely. I haven't eaten in bed for years." He realized that she was still tired and didn't have much energy yet.

He sat down on the bed with their meals on the trays. Touching shoulders, they ate. He with gusto, she slowly. Both finished their meals. Putting aside their trays, he gathered her into his arms.

'I've been worried. You've been asleep for so long.'

She leaned into him, loving him and his strength. 'I am sorry you were worried. How are you?'

He gently rubbed his face in her hair, 'I'm fine, but I'm so very glad you're alright. I was scared there for awhile.'

He felt her love wash over him, comforting him with its warmth.

After a few moments, "How are the Amagh mind readers?"

Smiling, "They're fine. Singh Tor has asked that you and I attend a dinner before we leave. Are you up for that?"

"Yes, we should probably meet them again." He noticed that she was falling asleep.

"Love, you should get some more sleep. I've got to get back to the bridge." He leaned down to kiss her, which she returned gently.

She was asleep before he was gone.

CONTINUED IN PART 27 Traditions, part 27 Author: Witezon@aol.com Pairing: A/T Rating: PG-13 Everything belongs to Paramount/UPN.

END OF NOVEMBER

"Captain, I'm getting a Priority message from Starfleet Command. Marked for Captain's Eyes Only."

He frowned, "Ensign, put it through to my Ready Room. T'Pol, you have the bridge." He walked off the bridge.

Fifteen minutes later his voice called out, "Sub-Commander, please report to my Ready Room."

T'Pol had noticed that something was wrong, but didn't intrude on his thoughts. He would tell her when he chose.

"Lt Reed, you have the bridge."

She entered into the Ready Room and found Jonathon staring at the monitor.

She walked over to him, "Jonathon? What is wrong?"

He grabbed her hand and pushed the monitor towards her. She read the screen.

'I grieve with thee.' Through the bond he realized she truly felt that.

He pulled her onto his lap, something he'd never done before in the Ready Room. He buried his face in her neck and held her close.

'Aisha, it is alright to feel loss. Did you know any of the crew?'

Sighing, 'Yeah, I knew most of the crew. I could have chosen any of them for Enterprise.'

She held him, 'There was nothing you could do. The ship's engines ruptured in warp. That is a risk. For anyone.'

More minutes passed, then 'You need to inform the crew. Is there a ritual or ceremony that should be performed?'

'Yes. Do Vulcans do some ritual in this situation?'

She waited a moment, then, 'Of course, we do it quite logically.'

Shaking his head in sad amusement, 'Of course, I have no doubt it would be logical.'

Looking at him and saying aloud, "We honor their lives. Vulcans who died doing something they believe was correct, are honored."

"What about their katras?"

"That is a concern that is taken into consideration before Vulcans leave the planet. We recognize the risk of not being able to leave our katras with family members who would transfer it to the Hall of Souls." Waiting a moment, "I had to decide if the mission was worth the possibility of not placing my katra into the Hall of Souls. I decided that it was. To not do something because of what could happen, was not something that I could do."

He pulled back from her, "You decided that your soul not being added to the Hall of Souls wasn't good enough to leave Enterprise?"

"Jonathon, if fear of something not happening stopped me from doing something I wanted to do, needed to do, should do, then I have failed in trying to become more that what I am."

'Surak?'

Nodding, 'Surak.'

"Do you want Commander Tucker to handle the ceremony?"

He clutched her closer, burying his face into her warmth, and taking comfort in her unique scent that reminded him of sandalwood. "No, you're the First Officer, it should be your duty to do this."

Agreeing, "However, do you mind if I confer with Commander Tucker?"

Sending her his thanks for understanding, "No, not at all."

She got up, standing beside him. He looked at his desk, compiling his thoughts. 'Archer to Communications."

Hoshi frowned at his wording, "Sato here, Sir."

"Please open a ship-wide channel."

"Yes, sir. Channel open."

Pausing and looking at T'Pol, "This is the Captain. I regret to inform you that the Starship Columbia, with all hands, was lost during its final testing phase. Most of us knew someone who was on the Columbia, and you have my deepest sympathy. We will have a memorial tomorrow afternoon at 1400 hours. I encourage all who want to attend to do so. Archer Out."

The ship froze in shock. Tucker knew their Chief Engineer, Sarah McFerson. Taking a shuddering breath, he dropped his head. Almost everyone had known someone on the Columbia. Starfleet was small. Family had died.

Fifteen minutes later, T'Pol left Jonathon in his Ready Room and returned to the bridge. There she found the bridge still in shock, performing their duties without really thinking about it.

She understood their pain, but needed their attention back on their jobs.

Taking the Captain's chair, she said, "Report status of all stations"

Startled, everyone looked at her. Then they quickly began that task, checking with all stations on-board.

Reed began, "The area around the ship is secure. Security reports normal."

Mayweather added, "We're still on course to sector SC-982, warp 3."

Womack, "Sensors report normal and nothing unusual in the vicinity." Sato, "Communications are silent. Sick Bay reports normal."

Reed came back in, "Engineering reports engines are working within normal parameters."

She nodded, "Ensign Sato, would you please ask Commander Tucker to meet me in the Mess. Lt Reed, you have the bridge. The Captain is working in his Ready Room."

T'Pol walked into the Mess and found Trip looking out the porthole. She silently walked up to him.

"Commander?" He slowly looked around at her.

He sighed, "Yeah, Sub-Commander?" She could see the grief in his eyes.

With her hands behind her back, "I grieve with thee on your loss."

He almost snapped at her. But looking at her, and after all this time, he could see her sincerity.

Taking a breath and moving his mind away from his pain, he asked softly, "I grieve with thee? Is that what Vulcans say when someone dies?"

She nodded. He glanced at her, "I knew someone, a woman."

He looked at the floor, remembering with a slight grin, "Sarah was Columbia's Engineer. We were...close at one time." Warming his hands on his coffee cup, "I'm going to miss her."

He looked at her and saw understanding in her eyes. "How's Jon doin'?"

"He is also grieving." She waited a moment, "The ship is grieving. He has asked if you and I would arrange a memorial ceremony for tomorrow at 1400."

He nodded, still looking down. "What do Vulcans do when this happens?"

T'Pol turned to look out the porthole, "Jonathon asked me the same." But she still didn't answer it.

She nodded at space, "The dangers are great and even Vulcan cannot ensure that nothing ill occurs. As Earth has done, Vulcan recognized the need for exploration and also the risks it incurs. The Vulcan Science Academy and the Vulcan High Command only take those individuals who volunteer and can accept the risks."

Trip looked out the porthole, and with a small grin, "What about the rewards of space exploration?"

She played into that and arched an eyebrow, "That is not logical, Vulcans do not do things for the reward."

Then, "The reward is the journey itself."

He jerked around to her - surprise mirrored on his face. He'd have to think about that.

He turned around, "Alright, Sub-Commander, let's put this together."

They worked the afternoon, ending up in Sick Bay with Doctor Phlox, getting his advice.

1400, THE NEXT AFTERNOON - MESS

The Mess Hall quickly filled up with crew. It had been rearranged with the tables removed and only chairs left in the room. A podium had been quickly manufactured. Flags of Earth were displayed. Off to one side a candle in an urn burned and a bell stood by its side. As the crew came in, they were handed a very small metal replica of the Columbia. In honorium.

Most of the crew had gathered. The doors opened and T'Pol and Tucker walked in and took their seats in the front row. They waited for Captain Archer.

Archer was standing in his Ready Room, reading and rereading his eulogy. Taking a deep breath, he drew on his bond with T'Pol. Her quiet strength, calmness, and love comforted him. He straightened and walked out of his office.

Upon his entrance, first T'Pol and Tucker stood. And only seconds behind, the crew also stood. Military protocol, heavily laden in history, held them together.

Archer stood at the podium, looking out over his crew. His gaze momentarily stopped at T'Pol, then moved on looking at his crew. He respected them, he loved them. The risks they took each day to understand the unknown humbled him.

He thought back to his conversation with Trip the night before. They had gotten together in Trip's quarters.

"Jon, what the hell happened? How did the Columbia die?" They both took a small sip of the 'not recognized' alcohol.

Archer looked at him. He knew about Sarah McFerson, he had doubled dated with them a couple of times. "You're the engineer, you tell me. I forwarded the information from Starfleet."

Looking at his drink, he said, "Trip, I'm sorry about Sarah." Not knowing what else to say, he didn't.

Trip choked out, 'Yeah."

Still looking at the deck, they took another drink. Trip said, "T'Pol said something to me today."

Archer looked up, "What'd she say?"

He sighed, "She said that the reward was the journey itself."

Expelling a deep breath, Archer nodded, "Yeah, it is." Jon thought about what T'Pol was giving up to be with him. He was going to die and she was going to live another century and more after that.

Trip noticed, "What?"

Archer shook his head.

Trip wasn't gonna be put off. "I saw that. Tell me what you meant."

A minute passed. "You know how old I am."

Confused, Trip nodded.

Looking only at the floor, "How long am I expected to live?"

Trip grimaced, "I don't know, another 50-60 years?

"T'Pol will live 100-150 years longer." He took another sip.

Trip looked with shock at him, 'Oh." He quickly took a drink, "I would think she knew that and considered it." He quickly looked up at him.

Archer nodded, "Yeah, she did."

Trip looked at him and cautiously said, "I guess she really does mean that its the journey, not the end, that makes it worth it."

Archer nodded, but said nothing. Trip tried again, "Jon, what's wrong?"

Archer released a tightly held breath and shielded the bond, "Trip, I need something from you."

"Yeah, you got it. Whatever you need."

Staring him, "Trip, I'm serious." Taking a deep breath, "When I die, I want you to help T'Pol."

Staring back, "Uh, yeah. Of course, I'll help T'Pol." Taking a quick sip. "How?"

Looking at the amber liquid in his glass, "T'Pol and I are really very close. Remember when I said that we're bonded and everything."

Trip nodded, he didn't know what to say.

Nodding, smiling alittle, "She might as well be here in the room with us right now."

Draining his drink, "If...something happens to T'Pol, I know that you'll be there for me."

Trip nodded, "Yeah, course I will."

Quietly, "If something happens to me, will you be there for T'Pol?"

Silence. Seriously, "Will she let me?"

"If I ask her, she will."

Thinking over Jon's request, "Alright, I will. If something happens to you, I'll be there for T'Pol."

The memorial was short. The candle burned and the bell was rung in memory. The eulogy wasn't long. There wasn't much he could say except to recognize their bravery, their courage, and their belief in what they were doing. They had the unique opportunity to live their dreams. Not many individuals can honestly say that. Even though their lives were cut short and their families were in pain, they were blessed.

CONTINUED IN PART 28 Traditions, part 28 Author: Witezon@aol.com Pairing: A/T Rating: PG-13 Everything belongs to Paramount/UPN.

FEBRUARY - THE NEXT YEAR

February - the 'long' month. It takes forever, even in space. They had another Christmas Party, New Year's Eve Party, and Jonathon and T'Pol's 'marriage' settled into normalcy in the eyes of the crew. It still wasn't flaunted, T'Pol was sparing in her touches in public. Even though she enjoyed touching him and letting him feel her emotions, it was private, as is the Vulcan way.

The Enterprise continued its mission of exploration. They entered a system that had several planets - none M-Class, so they were cataloguing them in their database. Archer was reading reports in his office and Travis had the bridge.

He finally got to a message from Phlox. 'Great. Its time for my annual physical.' He felt amusement from T'Pol. 'Yeah, but you're next.' Again, amusement. 'You're working out with Security, right?'

'Yes, we should be done shortly.'

He knew that she worked out with Security a once a week, but hadn't thought much about it. He knew she knew Vulcan martial arts and thought it had something to do with that.

Jonathon figured he may as well get his physical done now, he only had more reports to read.

"Archer to Phlox."

"Yes, Captain?"

"If you have the time, I'm available now for that physical."

Silence, "Really? I'm available, Captain. I'll see you in 5 minutes."

SICKBAY

Archer was just straightening his uniform when the doors to Sick Bay opened and Security walked in. They didn't see him, he was still behind the curtain.

Phlox looked at them and shook his head. "Who is it this time? Does anyone need the nerve pinch medication?"

Mantusco limped up. "I don't know how she does it to me every time. I even know she's going to do it, but I still fall for it."

Phlox ran his scans. "Just some pulled ligaments in your leg. We'll get you good as new for the Sub-Commander to break again."

He grimaced and the others laughed at him. Lt Reed had walked in at this point. No one had noticed Archer yet. Phlox was busy.

"Mantusco, did you see what she did this time?"

"No, Lt. She's too fast." Twisting his neck to side, "Does anyone really see her?" "Sometimes. But I think she lets us see."

Phlox had the injector ready and looked up, "Alright, who got nerve pinched?"

Torres raised his hand, then winced. "Me. Man, do I feel awful."

Phlox went and injected him, "You have my sympathies, Ensign. I have also had the dubious distinction of being nerve pinched and it wasn't pleasant."

Torres rubbed his neck and looked at everyone, "I think we're really lucky Vulcan is peaceful. If the Sub-Commander can take out 3 security team members at one time, just think what the whole planet could do."

Reed spoke up, rubbing his shoulder and neck, "Ah, Doctor, she also got me."

Shaking his head, Phlox refilled his injector. "Well, from the injuries for the last six months, you're either getting a lot better in martial arts or you're getting a lot better at colliding into walls and floors."

Gomez shook his head, "She's so small. But did you see what she did to me last week?" They looked at him and snickered.

Torres said, "She's done it to all of us. It really gets your attention." Looking over at Reed, "Lt, is she pulling her punches?"

"I think so. I think she's worried about our human egos." They all moaned.

"If she can stop dead my right cross with her hand, then she can have my ego. Its no wonder the Captain doesn't spar with her, I wouldn't want my wife to beat me up either." Rubbing his neck, "Its a good thing she's a Vulcan, otherwise we really wouldn't have any egos left."

The doors opened and in walked T'Pol. They all started to stand, but she gestured them back down. She had heard that last sentence.

"Lt, I wanted to let your team know that you have improved satisfactorily since we first started. If you still want to, I am willing to continue working with them."

Gomez replied, "Ma'am, if I can just catch up with you once in awhile I'd be happy."

She nodded. She knew Jonathon was behind the curtains, but didn't say anything. Reed nodded at her and shooed his team out of Sick Bay.

Phlox looked at her, "Sub-Commander, I think you've won the Security Section over."

Jonathon walked out from behind a curtain, grinning, "Are you beating up my Security Section, Sub-Commander?"

She arched an eyebrow at him. "No, Captain. I am merely working with the Security Section. We are integrating some Vulcan martial arts into their security practices."

"Maybe I could come and watch sometime? Maybe spar with you?"

"You are always welcome." He grinned, then turned towards the Doctor, "So, how am I, Doc?"

Phlox smiled, "You're doing very well, Captain. You're in excellent physical condition and your mental attitude is also excellent. Though I believe the Sub-Commander has a lot to do with that." Archer smiled, looking at T'Pol, "I guess its your turn."

Curious, "Doc, how do you judge a Vulcan's mental attitude?"

"I don't. They could be a mass murderer or as happy as a Fluggan Flyer and we'd never know. We'll have to rely on you for that information on the Sub- Commander."

Archer grinned. T'Pol arched an eyebrow. Phlox pointed out an curtained off area.

"If you would, Sub-Commander. I'll just finish setting the calibrations for Vulcans.

THE NEXT WEEK

Jonathon was tired of reading consumption reports. Actually it was any and all reports. They were still cataloguing the non M-class planets in the Ares System, and there wasn't anything else to do. He reached out to T'Pol and found she wasn't on the bridge.

'Aisha, where are you?'

'I am getting ready to work with the Security Section.'

'Would you mind if I came down to watch? Would it bother you?'

'Not at all. However, this session will be a full contact work-out.'

Frowning, 'Wasn't last week?'

'No.'

Thinking about the injuries, 'How did they get hurt? Why the neck pinches?'

'Lt Reed asked me to take advantage of when they stopped being aware of their situation. He said, and I concurred, that it would ingrain in them that they could not stop watching a circumstance just because they thought it was safe.'

Grinning, 'Yeah, you're both right. I'll be there shortly.'

He left Travis in charge of the bridge and wandered down to the gym. He ran into Trip on the way there.

"Hey, Cap'n. Where ya going?"

"Hi Trip. I'm gonna watch the Security Section workout with T'Pol."

Grinning, "Yeah, I know. Its full contact this week, we're all lookin' forward to it. She asked if I'd make sure that all the padding is in place. Security has talked about nothing else this whole week."

Shaking his head, "I think we'll be relieved when the next away mission occurs. We're all gettin' alittle space happy. But I can tell you that T'Pol's gonna have her work cut out for her this time. They've been practicing."

Looking up at Jon's surprised expression, "You did know these were big deals below decks, didn't you? Hasn't T'Pol told you about them?"

Jon didn't say anything. Trip said, "Well, this should be fun. I guess I'll tell you that some of the crew comes to these things now. Some root for Security, some for T'Pol."

They entered into the gym and found some of the crew already spread out around the perimeter of the mats. Security and T'Pol were warming up.

T'Pol suddenly turned around. Security was so attuned to her, that they turned as she did and stood in front of her. They all grinned sheepishly and went back to warming up.

T'Pol walked over to Jon. "Captain. Commander." Trip watched them, "Yeah, well, I'm gonna go over and talk to Hoshi."

Jon nodded. He hadn't even seen Hoshi. T'Pol tilted her head, "You are angry at something. Would you tell me?" This was asked vocally, but softly, as they had decided it would seem too unnatural for telepathic conversations with the crew around.

"Why didn't you tell me about these work outs? Trip has to tell me about them and that the crew comes in and cheer you guys on." He crossed his arms. He really wasn't happy - he felt left out.

She looked at him, "I am sorry. I thought you knew. We have been doing this for a year. I thought you were not interested." She opened the bond so he really could understand what she was saying.

He joined with her, examining what she had said, and saw that it was the truth. She thought he wasn't interested, and as a Vulcan, she wouldn't think to boast of it.

He relaxed, "I understand. I'm sorry. I am interested in everything you do," with a small leer, "and have been for a long time." Then he got worried, he looked over at the Security Section. Five men, big men, were going to fight with his wife.

She got a tolerated, affectionate look on her face, but only he would see it. "We have been working together for awhile now. We are not fighting, we are learning."

Smiling, "Yeah."

"Sub-Commander?" That from Lt Reed. She nodded at him.

Archer got a grin on his face, "Good luck, slugger." She arched at eyebrow at him and went back to the group.

Archer went over to Phlox, Trip, and Hoshi. Phlox smiled at him, "Captain. I'm glad to see you. It should be exciting."

Hoshi and Trip snickered. Jon turned to look at them, "What?"

At the same time, T'Pol and the Security came out to the middle of the mat. They bowed low to her and she returned it. Reed and Watson went back to the sidelines and Mantusco, Torres, and Gomez stayed out there with her.

Archer held his breathe. Nothing happened. T'Pol stood there in a relaxed position.

Then everything exploded. Gomez attacked from the right and Torres from the left, Mantusco came straight at her. T'Pol dropped and rolled to the left, taking out Torres. Gomez got in a weak kick and then T'Pol was up. She moved incredibly swiftly, backing him up with continuous hits into his body, into the wall. Torres shook his head and tried to get back up. She moved backwards and with kick to the rear he was out. Mantusco swung in with a left cross and T'Pol barely looked at him, grabbing his hand and forcing it down and twisting. He dropped to his knees. Gomez took advantage of that and threw a jab. She walked into it, passing inside his reach lessening its power, and absorbed the residual. At the same time, she reached out, putting a hand on his shoulder, the other on his hip, then leaned into him and threw him - into the wall.

The crew cheering for Security groaned. Hoshi, Phlox and Trip cheered for T'Pol. It was another one of those almost mystical Vulcan throws. It was based on their strength and leverage, but still it seemed like magic.

Trip glanced at Jon, he whispered, "Breathe. She'll be okay. They hit each other, that's what they do. They fall down or into walls. But its okay." Coming closer, "The next part you'll really like."

Reed had come into replace Torres, after moving him back to the wall. He tried grabbing her from behind and she let him. She moved backward with his momentum and using it, she bent forwards and he flew into Mantusco. They both went down.

T'Pol was the proverbial Vulcan. Calm, serene, undisturbed. But also Security was not as perturbed as they used to be. Archer wanted to know what she was feeling and opened his sense of her.

It was an eye-opener. It was the exact opposite of what she portrayed. She had her senses fully extended and knew where everyone was. She wasn't reading their minds, she couldn't. But she could and did sense their whereabouts and movements.

This went on for another 15 minutes. Everyone had fallen or been thrown into the walls or floor. Finally, she called out "Kroykah" (Stop).

Trip again whispered to Jon, "Now this is the weird part. What we all come to watch." He moved back and Jon looked around the room. Everyone suddenly had an intensity about them. They all had their eyes glued to the mat.

T'Pol and all five members of the Security Section were back out on the mat. They had their eyes closed.

T'Pol spoke, "Falikal" (Begin).

They began to move as one, with their eyes closed. It looked like a deadly Tai-Chi to Jonathon. For five minutes they worked without sight, exactly replicating each other's moves. Sweat poured off of their faces. T'Pol even had a sheen on her face. Everyone in the room could feel their concentration.

Again, T'Pol called Kroykah. She turned around to them, looking at each of them. They were so big compared to her. The smallest was Reed and he was larger than she.

She bowed her head to them, "We are moving toward our goal of Kya'shin (thought over emotion).

They all bowed to her. Reed said, "Thank you, T'Sai (Lady) Sub-Commander.

With that the show was over. Jonathon let out a breath. T'Pol went to her towel, wiping off her face. She turned around and there was Jonathon. Security moved away to give them some privacy.

His gaze slid over her. Narrowing when he noticed the darkening on her chin. Her eyes were calm, clear - yet somehow deep. He didn't touch her, just absorbed her through his eyes. They stared at each other.

Phlox came over, taking a quick glance at both of them. "Sub-Commander, any injuries I should know about?" He quickly scanned her. He ran it over her bruise.

"No. How are the others?" She never took her eyes from Jonathon's.

"Just a few bruises and some strains. They should be fine in a couple of days." Looking amused at them, "I congratulate you on the way they have improved. Last year they had broken bones."

Neither one acknowledged his comment. He nodding, with an amused smile, "Well, good afternoon." He walked away.

Her look became sensual, though again, only he would have known, 'Aisha, do you have duties this afternoon you must attend to?'

Grinning, 'No.' He took her elbow and they moved through the group. At the door, they turned around.

Archer called out, "Commander Tucker, you have the bridge."

At his nod, they left.

Trip, Hoshi, Phlox and Reed looked at each other. Phlox spoke up, "Well, they are still newlyweds. It hasn't been a year yet."

Hoshi chuckled. Reed had a small smile on his face. Trip, grinned, then, "Alright, those of us who can, let's go to the bridge. We've got some unpopulated planets to finish cataloguing."

CONTINUED IN PART 29 Traditions, part 29 Author: Witezon@aol.com Pairing: A/T Rating: PG-13 Everything belongs to Paramount/UPN.

APRIL

After several testing phases and corrections, Archer had finally approved Reed's and T'Pol's recommendations for security enhancements. They hadn't needed it yet, but it was good it was available.

T'Pol was at her station analyzing sensory data about the system. She saw something outside of what was normally expected. She doubled-checked her sensor data. Then triple-checked it for Vulcan thoroughness.

She looked up, "Lt Reed, Yellow alert. Ensign Mayweather, all stop."

Reed stared at her, then "Aye, Sub-Commander, yellow-alert."

He pressed a series of controls on his station, alerting the Security Section, enabling the polarization of the hull, warming up the lasers, and having the weapons crews on standby for loading torpedoes.

Mayweather, "Aye, Sub-Commander, all stop."

At the same time Sato had notified the ship, "All hands, Yellow Alert. This is not a drill. All hands, Yellow Alert." Pausing, "Captain to the Bridge."

All sections acknowledged to Sato their readiness, and Archer walked onto the Bridge.

"Sub-Commander, report."

"Sir, there is a gathering of ships at the 4th planet in this system. There appears to be the discharging of energy weapons."

He looked at her, "Fighting?" He looked over to Malcolm, "Status?"

"Yes, sir. I confirm that there is energy weapons fire."

T'Pol, Reed, and Mayweather were monitoring the system, T'Pol reported, "Two ships destroyed at mark 135."

Archer looked over at Hoshi, "Ensign, is there any communications chatter?"

She was working her station, "Yes, sir. I can put it on audio." He nodded.

They heard the confusion of battle language and coordinates they didn't recognize. T'Pol reported another ship destroyed.

"Sir! We're being hailed. Audio only."

"Unknown ship, identify your intentions. If we do not hear from you within the next 10 seconds, you will be destroyed."

Archer glanced at T'Pol, "This is the Earthship Enterprise. I am Captain Jonathon Archer. We are peaceful explorers. We mean you no harm."

Sarcastically, "Captain Archer, we haven't had peaceful explorers in this system for months. Leave or we'll destroy you."

T'Pol suddenly spoke up, "Bring stations to Red Alert."

Archer frowned. Lt Reed and Ensign Sato brought the ship up to Red Alert.

Sato open all channels, "Red Alert. Red Alert. This is not a drill. All hands, Red Alert."

Reed depressed more switches. This had the Weapons Crew loading torpedoes, lasers were doubled-checked as hot, and all decks ensured redundancies were on line, to include people.

In less than 5 seconds, they were hit by energy weapons fire. The ship jerked to the right. Mayweather compensated.

Archer ordered, "Lt Reed, target their ships. Mayweather, keep an eye on the position of those ships." In the background they heard Reed acknowledge that their ships were targeted.

"Identify yourselves. Why did you fire on us?"

After a few moments of silence, "We are the Diagni. I am F'lden, Captain of this ship and squadron. We did not fire on your ship intentionally and that has been corrected. What are you doing in this space?"

"As I said, we are explorers and mean you no harm. Can you tell us what's happening here?"

"We are at war, Captain. We are at war with the 4th planet, the Mossjji."

Frowning, he tilted his head towards T'Pol. She was running scans. 'Jonathon, the planet seems to be primitive. I do not see how they could be at war with the Diagni or anyone. I would consider that they could be pirates. They are circling around the Enterprise. Their ships are smaller than we and more maneuverable. I will send Lt Reed firing instructions, if you agree.'

He nodded. "Captain, can you tell me what the war is about?"

During this delaying conversation, T'Pol sent Reed instructions and he adjusted his firing pattern and targets.

Suddenly they were in a fight. "Lt Reed, fire on those ships."

"Aye, sir." Reed started firing at the pre-targeted ships, realigning as they moved.

The Enterprise was hit twice on the back hull. There was a break between the ships after Reed disabled two with lasers and torpedoes, "Travis, towards the 4th planet, get around the back. Reed, continuing firing."

There were at least 2 or 3 ships remaining, to include the largest with F'lden.

But the pirates decided to retreated, the risk was too high for more damage to their ships. They could always come back later. Archer asked T'Pol to run scans over the 4th planet.

"Reed, keep an eye out. We don't want to be surprised."

A few minutes later, "Captain, there appears to be a mining effort on the smallest continent in the northern hemisphere. The population of the planet doesn't have any other mines that I can detect. There also appears to be no industrialization at all."

Nodding, "So, the mine could be the efforts of the pirates. That's what they could have been fighting about."

T'Pol was still analyzing the latest data coming in, "Captain, there appears to be a small warp ship near the mine. But it doesn't have the same warp signature as the pirates."

"Great. Another unknown." Making a decision, "Can we get an idea of what these people look like? I want to go down."

T'Pol's eyebrow arched, "Yes. They are humanoid in appearance, but primitive. It appears to be an agrarian society." Pausing a moment, "If you wish to go to the surface, then I would suggest the away team dress appropriately."

Smiling, "Agreed. Okay, let's go get ready. T'Pol, Tucker, Sato, and security. Lt Reed, you'll have the bridge, Lt Kowalski will be in Engineering. We'll try to check-in every hour."

Archer and T'Pol were changing in their quarters. She again wore the long black haired wig, the one she normally wore to conceal her alien features. Jonathon smiled as she dressed in her long black skirt and white blouse with tan vest. He dressed similarly in black pants, white shirt and vest. Both wore leather boots.

He went around the bed and took pulled her into his arms. Smiling, "Who knew that 2 years ago, we'd be here today."

With a hint of a smile in her eyes, "The probability that this would occur was indefinable." She wound her arms around his neck, pulling herself up, "However, that has not stopped you in the past getting what you wanted."

He kissed her and whispered, "I guess we should go to the docking bay. The rest should be waiting for us."

CONTINUED IN PART 30 Traditions, part 30 Author: Witezon@aol.com Pairing: A/T Rating: PG-13 Everything belongs to Paramount/UPN.

And they were. Tucker piloted them to the planet, landing about 3K from the where the mine and ship were located.

They quickly secured the shuttle, hiding it from view. T'Pol had her sensor out, checking out the area.

"Captain, the mine is this way." Nodding, he led them in that direction. T'Pol just behind him, continuing her sensor sweeps.

Suddenly he swept his arm out in front of her. She slipped her sensor into her skirt pocket. They could see a camp fire through the trees. There were locals around it, but less than what they had expected from the size of the fire.

They all stopped and looked around. Security halted around them, but Archer shook his head. Out of the woods came the other locals. They held spears, crossbows, and cudgels.

Sato had the UT already set for the language. They had assumed that the Diagni we're speaking the language - or at least a close approximation. Now they'd see if it was right.

"Who are you?" This was asked by a medium sized man with a large crossbow. He had dark hair, but with very light eyes. His skin, and everyone's with him, was tanned, weather-roughened, skin. Reddish in the shadows.

"I am Jonathon. This is my wife, T'Pol." Gesturing behind him, "These are members of my village." Nodding at him, "Who are you?"

Staring at him, then "I am Nakret. These are members of my village - Hartan." Behind him a woman appeared from the trees, "That is my wife, Kataan."

Jonathon nodded at him. "We come in peace. We are searching for a lost village member. Strangers appeared around our village and then he was missing. His wife wants him to come back. So we're looking for him."

Nodding, "We also are missing some village members. You are welcome to our campfire. As is custom, your women folk can help ours with the evening meal. They can go with Kataan."

'Oh, oh,' Jonathon froze, as did the others. T'Pol nodded, "Of course." She gestured to Hoshi and they went with Kataan, who led them away through the trees.

'T'Pol, can you cook?'

'It will depend on what they want me to do. We will have to just wait and see.'

Narket led the others to the campfire, and they all sat down around it. Narket passed around a jug which the locals only took a sip of. It came to Jonathon and he took it, carefully. He gave it a sniff, with the others watching him, he also took a small sip.

He almost spit it out. Strong - hot - strong - cold - rough - smooth. You name it, that's what it was, and it was definitely alcoholic.

After everyone had taken a drink, Narket began, "Jonathon, you said you had a village member missing?"

Nodding, "Yes. He's been missing for almost a month. We're out looking for him. We saw something head in this direction. We thought it was a strange looking wagon - but we have no where else to look."

Tilting his head side to side, Narket replied, "Yes, we have also seen the strange wagon. We are continuing on in that direction tonight. Would you like to come with us?"

"Yes, we would, thank you."

Again, with the strange tilting, "We have an extra tent that you and your friends can stay in."

AT THE KITCHEN FIRE

Kataan introduced T'Pol and Hoshi to three other women and then took them over to the a side of meat.

She looked them over, not unfriendly, but challenging. "T'Pol, Hoshi, we caught this animal 3-days ago and this is what is left. We don't have anymore ideas to cook it. We hope you have one." Kataan smiled at them, glad to have gotten rid of that problem. Now she could move onto other ones.

T'Pol looked at the haunch of meat and then exchanged glances with Hoshi.

Hoshi whispered to her, "T'Pol, I don't know how to cook meat. We're Japanese, we use mostly fish and rice with meat like this as additions. Not the full meal. You're a vegetarian from a planet of vegetarians. What are we going to do?"

Looking at the meat, T'Pol took small breathes, trying to become accustomed to the extremely noxious smell.

Hoshi put out her hand, but not quite touching T'Pol. "Ma'am, are you alright? What are we going to do?"

"I have read several cookbooks," at Hoshi's surprise, "historical cookbooks, trying to understand humans. What and how a population cooks is very revealing. I cannot say with any guarantee that what I remember from them would be any different from what Kataan would do. But we will ensure that its cooked thoroughly. Unrefrigerated meat this old could make everyone sick."

T'Pol looked around, then stepped back from it. She took a breathe then went around to some grasses she had seen. Pulling out her sensor she quickly read that the meat, while very pungent, wouldn't hurt them. If cooked well. She also checked the grasses to make sure they were eatable. She had Hoshi pull enough to wrap the meat in them, with extras.

While she was doing that, T'Pol was digging a pit, which she lined with thin stones. Kataan walked over.

Nodding, "That is very interesting. I thought you might want to have some vegetables and spices. Please take what you need, we have plenty."

T'Pol nodded. She finished lining the hole and in the middle built a fire pit. After it was burning, she covered the hole to get the stones warmed up. She walked back to the haunch of meat where Hoshi was waiting.

She almost sighed, "Hoshi, let us choose some vegetables and spices, and then wrap the...meat in the grasses."

Nodding, they both went to work. After 30 minutes, the fire pit was very warm and the stones were holding that warmth. They lowered the wrapped meat into the pit. T'Pol and Hoshi had rigged a stone bottom to the pit, covering the fire. They then placed several packets of vegetables wrapped in the grasses. Spices were liberally thrown on the entire dinner.

T'Pol had found several large tubes and had Hoshi hold them upright, while she filled in around them with other stones. Thereby providing the oxygen she needed for the fire, yet still encasing the meat in a closed area.

Hoshi looked at it, then T'Pol. Grinning, "Did we just make a crock pot in the ground?"

"I believe so." They watched it, monitoring its heat. They added a few more stones here and there, but were satisfied.

Kataan came over. "That's very good. I hope it works, and if it does, I'm going to use it."

Nodding, "I hope so, too. The meat should be done in approximately 6 hours. Is there anything else?"

Shaking her head, "No, we did everything else while you were doing that. Let's go back to the other camp site."

T'Pol, Hoshi, and Kataan went back to the men. The three other women carried hot drinks and snacks.

The men looked up when they returned. T'Pol's expression went icy when she looked them over. She and Hoshi exchanged 'Men' glances. Kataan snorted.

They may not have been drunk, but they were on their way to it and it was only noon.

T'Pol went to sit next to Jonathon. Hoshi slid in between T'Pol and Trip. Kataan was passing out the drink and snacks.

Jonathon smiled at her. Feeling no pain. No man was. "Hi. How'd the cooking go?"

She looked at him, expressionless. She pushed her hair back over her shoulder. "It went well."

Kataan spoke up, "Narket, they did something very different, and if it works, I've told T'Pol that I will borrow it for the next time we have old meat."

T'Pol had been handing Jonathon bread to eat and a hot drink, which had no alcohol.

Frowning, he whispered to her, "Old meat?"

She nodded once, looking at the ground.

Hoshi leaned towards T'Pol, "How do you feel now? Is it better?"

"Yes, thank you."

Jonathon was still frowning, "You didn't feel well? When? Why didn't I notice?"

With an eyebrow arched, she nodded to the jug. Looking at the ground, 'I'm sorry. I didn't know it was going to affect me like that. Are you better now?'

'Yes. It was just the smell of the raw meat.'

Narket spoke into their silent conversation, "Jonathon, perhaps you would like to rest now. We will move again tonight after dinner, then rest come sun-up. As I told you we travel at night, sometimes there are more dangers in daylight."

Slowly nodding, "Thank you. We'd appreciate that."

Narket took them to a large tent. Narket and his village members went into the one across from it.

Jonathon opened the flap and went in. Everyone followed him. They were carrying rolled up packs for sleeping with some additional clothing, medical supplies, and phasers inside.

T'Pol looked around, "Mantusco, Watson, please set-up around the entrance." Nodding, they did.

The other four took a place in the middle. T'Pol was still feeling the effects of being near the meat and its odor. She sat down on her pad, taking some cleansing breaths. Hoshi watched her. Archer and Trip were trying to shake off the remains of the alcohol.

Hoshi joked, scrunching up her nose, and shaking her head, "I think I'll join T'Pol and become a vegetarian, too. The smell of that meat was awful. I don't know how you stood it."

Shaking her head, "But with what you thought up, it should at least be eatable. Wrapping it up in the grasses and separating the vegetables too, that was a good idea."

Hoshi chuckled, turning to Trip and Archer, "She had us build a crock pot in the ground. I hope it works."

Archer was sitting next to T'Pol. Close enough to feel the heat of her body, but not touching. Enough of the alcohol was gone and he could finally feel her again. He sighed in relief.

He noticed that she didn't feel well, but appeared to be getting better with time. "Okay, everyone let's get some rest. It'll be a long night."

They all laid down. T'Pol was tired. After she and Hoshi built the crock pot and dealt with the noxious meat, she needed to rest. Archer leaned on his side, with his head propped in his hand watching her, forgetting they had an audience. Everyone looked at them, then looked away.

'Jonathon, what are you doing?' She kept her eyes closed, but she could tell he smiled.

'I'm watching you. Maybe we should make you the Chef from now on.'

'I believe that I will keep my position as Science Officer and First Officer. Oh yes, also the one as your mate.' She caressed him in the meld.

Just before he leaned down to kiss her, 'Jonathon, we are in a tent with 4 others. Perhaps this is not the best place for physical intimacy.'

Stopping, 'No, I guess not. That would give the crew too much to talk about.' Sighing, 'But I really want you.'

'I want you, too. This is the best I can do.' She rolled over to rest against him. He wrapped his arm around her, pulling her close to his side. The others watched, then closed their eyes.

CONTINUED IN PART 31