Knowledge is Power

Looking around the room Alicia found to her surprise that not much had changed, at least not in the form of decorations are concerned. 'Who decorated this place? It looks like a prison, what with all the advancements in science, couldn't they have tried something a bit more daring?'

Bunk beds, one window to see out into the stars, 'Well that is something you don't see every time you look out a window. I can't believe Jonathan actually commands this ship, why with this power he could level the whole German army.'

Feeling quite small, Alicia continued her survey of the room that the men in Navy suits escorted her to. 'So I was right he is in the military, but I got the type of ship wrong. Who could imagine humans in space? And aliens to boot, it seems almost inconceivable.'

With a soft beep, Alicia was awakened from her stupor, when she turned around she came face to face with a clean shaven and handsome Jonathan Archer. "I see that you are enjoying yourself, what can I do to make it more pleasant?"

"You could tell what the heck is going on? And why I see stars out my window, also there is the little matter of me disappearing and reappearing. But other than that, I am fine."

Flinching slightly at the amount of sarcasm lacing Alicia words, Archer hoped to come up with a suitable explanation for his past transgressions.

"Well, the stars are normally seen out in space, being a star ship it is the norm for all of us onboard. The matter of our Houdini act, well that is matter of discussion, it is very complicated. Even I don't understand how exactly the transporter works, the transporter being the device that brought us here. What I can tell you is that you are safe aboard my ship, and we will do everything within our power to stop the acts of villainy that pervade the world that you inhabit."

"That is nice to know, but I would still like to go back down and fight with the rebels. I cannot leave them to rot and die while I live here in the lap of luxury, it would cause guilt that would not fade for thousands of years."

"I understand your resolve to fight against the people who took so much away from you, but it is hopeless unless you allow me to help you."

"This large ship, this star ship, it's humongous, it can destroy the Germans in one strike. Why don't you use it and be done with it all?"

Watching as Alicia broke down into a fit of sobs, Archer held her by her shoulders and tried to reason with her.

"I will make sure that everything gets back to the way it was, but we will do it my way. I have seen enough bloodshed to last me a lifetime."

Embracing the woman, Archer comforted her in her time of confusion and sorrow, "It will be okay, I will make sure nothing happens to you."

Sinking further into Archer's chest, Alicia could not stop the purr of pleasure that she uttered when Archer stroked her hair. Maneuvering Alicia onto the bed, Archer tried to make Alicia release her vice-like grip on his mid-section. Remembering all the recent events of women clinging to his body, Archer was curious as to why they all seemed to not want to let go.

"I have two men that have been captured by the enemy, I must rescue them. Will you be alright up here, or would you rather prefer to have me send you down with me?"

"Hmmm…? Oh, yes I would be most grateful if you would escort me down with you in tow."

"Very well, I must make plans to find a pod that can safely land and avoid enemy fire." During this whole discussion, Alicia had not once let go of the captain, to the captain it was a bit unnerving.

Again trying to remove Alicia, Archer only succeeded in making Alicia hold on that much tighter to him. Feeling tension invading the room, Alicia released the captain, but before she completely disengaged, Alicia ensnared Archer in a kiss that rivaled the kisses he had received from T'pol and Hoshi.

Circling his arms around the beauty in his arms, Archer soon forgot the reasons why he had come here in the first place. The kiss lasted for at least 2 minutes before they both had to come up for air, with one final peck on the lips Alicia escorted the captain out of her quarters.

Dazed and confused, Archer walked toward the elevator that would take him toward the bridge. On the way to the bridge he ran into Corporal Cole, "Captain? Are you alright sir? Do you need to go Sickbay?"

Surprised by the corporal, Archer composed himself, "I am fine Corporal, I was just lost in thought nothing more."

"If you are sure, but I would recommend that you head toward Sickbay regardless. It would be most unfortunate if you happened to fall ill."

"I thank you for your concern Corporal Cole, but I believe I would know if I was feeling ill."

"Very well, but I am concerned about your welfare sir. It would be most unfortunate if I could not see you again."

"That is true…umm…What did you just say?"

"I am concerned for your welfare?"

"No, right after that."

Surprised by what had come out of her mouth, Amanda Cole tried to salvage the situation. Blushing profusely, Amanda stated exactly what she said.

"It would be most unfortunate if I could not see you again."

"Well, again I must thank you, it would please me as well to see you again."

"Thank you sir, I must be on my way."

Practically running down the hall Amanda tried to escape before she said something else that would embarrass her further. 'Why did I say that? I mean I thought about it, but I would never say it. What is wrong with me? Maybe I should be the one who sees Phlox?'

Walking down the corridor Archer thought about what he would do about the sudden disappearance of both Trip and Travis, 'Maybe I could pilot a shuttle pod toward the surface and beam them aboard from there. Though that would mean a way to locate them and transport them aboard without any real idea of how to do it. There goes another idea out the window, I mean what can I do up here with Vosk down there torturing my crewmen? I must find a way to secure them and bring them back to the ship, but how?'

Upon entering the bridge he was confronted with the stares from both T'pol and Hoshi, 'Wonder what their so mad about? They look like they could kill an ox, must be angry at Vosk for his capture of our fine crewmen.'

"Captain, Are you well? Do you need to see Doctor Phlox?"

Puzzled by the question posed by T'pol, Archer was just glad that only Hoshi and T'pol were on the bridge this late in the shift. 'I wonder where Malcolm went? I mean shouldn't there be more crew on the bridge at this hour?' Peering at his subordinate Archer voiced his thoughts on the subject of his health, "I am fine, T'pol. I would appreciate if everyone would stop asking me that, I mean you are the second one today."

"If I may be so bold Captain, who was the other person to inquire about your health?"

Surprised by the interest both women seemed to show at his answer, Archer decided to just let them know. "Corporal Cole inquired about my health and also advised me to head down to sickbay."

"Now onto more important business then my health, has there been any word from Vosk? Has he given any form of ransom demand?"

Appearing to recompose herself T'pol conveyed all the intelligence to date, "He has contacted us, he seems to want to meet with you in exchange for Commander Tucker and Ensign Mayweather. I believe it is most likely a trap, I recommend that you should remain aboard the Enterprise while I negotiate the safe return of both crewmen."

"I do not think that is very wise T'pol, if his intentions are to recapture me then he will not succeed, but I will not let my men suffer while I hide like a coward aboard this ship."

"Very well sir, but might I suggest sending a fully armed detail to guard you while you talk with Vosk?"

"That is a wonderful idea Hoshi, I will take two of the MACO's with me. I will be in my ready room while I make the necessary preparations for the mission. Make sure that both MACO's are well armed and equipped, also it would not be a bad idea if we stationed a few Enterprise crewmen along the outskirts in case of a wider ambush."

Surprised by the logic and strategy shown by her superior officer T'pol just nodded her head. 'He has grown accustomed to military tactics, sending a force down in advance to scour the area is what I would have suggested had he not already given the command.'

'Now I must make sure that Corporal Cole is not with the detail pertaining to Captain Archer, it would not be pertinent for a Corporal to fraternize with a Captain. Now an Ensign, that is a different story, I mean if I resigned my commission, no he would not let me. I must find a way, some way, I will make sure that all my dreams will come true.'

Punching in the necessary orders and coordinates, Hoshi sat back and thought of the ways she could go about her tactical disadvantage. While Hoshi was pondering such thoughts as transportation and weaponry, T'pol was busy finding the most advantageous spots to conceal the crewmen who would protect the Captain from further capture and torture.

'I must make sure that whatever transpires that Captain Archer returns to the Enterprise, it would be most unpleasant to continue without Jon…I mean Captain Archer.'

1 hour later

"I assume all preparations are complete?"

"Yes, sir. All crewmen have been concealed and transported to Earth, and both MACO's are fully armed and equipped."

"How did you manage to transport them to the surface without alerting Vosk and his men?"

"The codes were already set on the transporter, it was not ascertained by whom…"

"Oh…now I remember…I had entered the codes before I returned to the bridge. It was most fortunate that Vosk decided to send the coordinates, it would have been most difficult to pinpoint exactly where I wanted the crew to land when they had been transported."

Surprised by his sudden skill in controlling the meddlesome transporter, T'pol decided that there was most definitely something different about Captain Archer. "As you have pinpointed the coordinates, it was merely a simple task of transporting the 10 crewmen down to Earth. When your shuttle lands, it is imperative that you allow both MACO's to disembark in case of hostile fire."

"I understand T'pol, wish me luck."

"I would not know how sir."

"Nevermind, let's just get underway…I am anxious to return with both crewmen and no casualties."

"Understood sir."

Captain Archer climbed aboard the shuttle pod that would take him back to Earth and the terror that awaited for him there. 'Whatever Vosk is planning I don't think I will like it one bit.'

Arriving back on Earth surrounded by dense forests encapsulating the once beautiful city of New York, Archer wondered if he would ever see the day when he could once again see the beautiful skyscrapers that were the norm for such a big city like New York.

"Set her down there Sergeant, it will provide adequate cover against any unforeseen assault."

"Yes, sir."

The shuttle pod landed safely among the trees and shrubs, Archer allowed the two soldier's to disembark first. When they advised it was safe to exit the shuttle he wandered out into the lush landscape that invited him to spend years in mediatation.

'T'pol must be rubbing off on me, I have never wanted to meditate in my whole life.'

It seemed the Captain and both soldiers had arrived early, but soon Archer pinpointed a shape near the tree line. A jeep carrying the alien menace that had captured him approached, trying to recompose himself Archer waited for the jeep to arrive.

"Captain, it is good to see you again. I must say that you seem no worse for wear, I must assume that your resident physician repaired you adequately."

"If we could disregard the pleasantries Vosk, it would make this go much faster."

"Very well Captain, I meant no disrespect but it would have been rude of me to break such unusual human customs."

Nodding his head, Vosk ordered the Nazi's to remove both of Archer's men from the vehicle. "They are returned to you in adequate condition, nothing a few band-aid's can't fix."

"Captain is that you?"

"Captain?"

Surprised to see the man that they both assumed died in a fiery ball of death, both gentlemen could not come up with any more words to sum up their feelings.

"It is good to see both of you, are you both alright?"

"Were fine Captain, but a little beaten up and hungry."

"Well we will remedy that when we get you aboard and Doctor Phlox can get a look at both of you."

"I have delivered on my agreement Captain, would it not be polite if you could listen to my proposal?"

Making sure both his crewmen were aboard the shuttle pod, Archer returned to Vosk's area.

"What did you have in mind Vosk?"

"I was just curious to know if you had any recent visits from one of my adversaries."

"What would be the reason that you would be so interested?"

"It would make this conversation much more informative for both of us."

"Very well, I have encountered such beings you speak of. Now what is it that you want Vosk?"

"Nothing more than for you to stay clear from my facility."

"I cannot do that Vosk, I will not let you rampage the timeline for your petty struggles."

"I warn you Captain, I am not a person so easily spurned. I advise you to take my warning as a sort of buffer for your increasing aggression."

"I am no fool Vosk, I will not stand idle while you mutilate all that history has worked for. Your internal struggles have nothing to do with what you have done to my world."

"I know you are not from this time, it would be logical that you help me build what I need. Thus, I could send us both back to our respective times."

"I don't know if I can trust you, I will not engage in any type of shady deal with you Vosk."

"Even though it would mean that you would be stuck in this time forever?"

"So be it, but I will not let you contaminate more of timeline for your fascist designs."

"I am sorry that we could not come to an agreement on this issue Captain, but I strongly suggest that you reconsider my most gracious offer."

Without another word Vosk motioned for the Nazi's to return to the vehicle and both the alien and the Germans drove off.

'I must stop them, it would mean a world of pain for my people if he had his way. Although, it wouldn't be too bad to see my apartment again, but I guess people don't always get what they want.'

Entering the shuttle Archer ordered the crew to set course for the Enterprise stationed above the German encampment. 'I hope that we can find something out from Trip and Travis, it would be a lot easier if I had more information to go on before I made any life altering decisions.'

Sickbay

"How are they Doctor?"

"Hmm…oh…they are fine Captain. Although I must show you some readings I found most perplexing, if you would look here. This is a scan performed on Commander Tucker, as you can tell it is most evident that something is amiss."

"I see, contact the proper channels Doctor."

"Indeed, sir."

Walking toward both Trip and Travis, Archer asked them a couple questions about the encampment and other questions that seemed to take Commander Tucker more time then needed to answer.

Sensing something was wrong "Trip" tried to talk his way out of sickbay, but it seemed the good Doctor had raised enough of a concern that the Captain had understood. Quickly trying to catch the Captain off guard, Trip threw a sloppy left hook toward the captain's head. Unfortunately, for Trip, Archer had anticipated this action and blocked his meager attempt at a punch. Delivering two firm jabs to Trip's stomach, Archer hoped to stun him enough for the Doctor to administer a mild sedative.

Trip seemed to take it in stride and soon gained enough momentum to launch himself at the captain. Colliding with the captain should have induced no pain, but it felt like he had hit a brick wall. Although, that brick wall staggered a bit, just enough for the imposter to escape from Sickbay, hoping for a quick exit the imposter found to his discomfort an armada of weaponry aimed at his back.

Opening fire, the crew delivered enough force to knock the perpetrator unconscious. During the next few minutes the outlook of the resident engineer changed from something that could be called human, to a mass of scales and other reptilian features. Exiting Sickbay Archer discovered the crew peering at the body of someone Archer knew well, the extraterrestrial mercenary Silik.

6 hours later

Awakening from his slumber Silik found to his distress that he had been confined to the brig of the ship. Or, more accurately a living quarters that was abandoned thus converted to a brig for criminal activities.

"Where is my engineer?"

"Captain, it is pointless to ask questions that you know will not be answered."

"I will say this one last time Silik where is my Chief Engineer?"
"As I have said it is pointless, there is nothing I wish to say to you."

Entering the code needed to enter the brig, Archer stood in front of the humanoid that had hidden his crewman. "You will not answer the question?"
"You catch on quick Captain, now if you would please leave?"

Taking Silik by the throat Archer forced him into the wall, "Where is my engineer?"
"I see that the Expanse has changed you, not in a good way I assume."

Frustrated with Silik and himself, Archer left the brig and headed toward his quarters. 'I hope Alicia is having a better time convincing the rebellion to induce a great enough distraction for me to destroy the lab.'

On Earth

"I don't believe a word."

"I don't need you to believe, I need you to round up all the rebels you can find. We will need them when Archer calls forth the attack on the lab."

"This is a lot to take in, why do they need us when they got something better?"

"I told you, it's complicated. Now are you going to help me or not? Because whether you help me or not I will still go and help Archer."

"Fine, but don't blame me when we are lying on the ground trying to save our necks and Archer is happily floating out there somewhere."

"I won't, now who dressed this?"
"Tony, he was a surgeon remember?"

"No, he wasn't. He was just another one of your cronies, and he stitched up bullet wounds not burns and stuff."

"It doesn't matter, all I am asking is can you fix it?"

"Oh, stop being so melodramatic, I can fix it."

While fixing the gangster's leg, Alicia thought about what Archer was planning. 'I hope your doing better up there then I am doing down here Jonathan, it is like talking to a brick wall down here.'

Enterprise

Feeling that a truce was in order, Archer went in search of the brig once more.

Finding the menace pacing around inside his cage, Archer felt a bit better about things happening around his life. "How bout a truce Silik? Were facing the same enemy, I know that disc that was inside of your pocket has the plans for the machine. You can't let Vosk get away with it can you?"
"How can I trust you Archer? When you lock me in here and take away my possessions, I would need proof of the truce."

"I can give you no such thing, but what else can you do? I mean you need to finish this, and I am the only means that can accomplish that. So whether you like it or not, you are going to have to trust me."

"You make a good point Archer, but remember just because we have a truce does not mean that when the next time comes, I will not gladly send your head on a platter for my waiting associates."

"I will not forget Silik, I mean it's not like I wouldn't do that to you as well."

"You have truly changed Captain."

"You can't take a joke Silik, that is all."

Making sure all arrangements had been handled carefully, Archer waited for Silik to finish his transformation from a disgruntled alien, to a disgruntled human being. "I don't know why I must persist in such blatant acts of espionage, I mean it is not like their feeble weapons can bring any harm to me."

"I have told you numerous times, we are going to be sneaking in, not breaking down the door with guns ablaze. I mean how would you feel if a human came into your base, it would strike you as odd wouldn't it? I am just trying to conceal your vast flaws, which could get us both killed."

"Enough with this nonsense, let us get this over with so I may head back to my time in peace."

Shaking his head, Archer headed toward the control panel and readied for takeoff. Getting in touch with T'pol, Archer informed her that all preparations were complete, "I'll be back soon, I hope to see my ship in better shape when I return Sub-Commander. See you then."

The ride toward Earth was quiet, meaning Archer didn't want to talk to Silik and vice versa. The shuttle started it's descent and soon Archer could see the lush forests surrounding New York, but he also saw a bunch of people crowding around the area where he hoped to land. 'That must be Alicia and her small, small band of rebels. There can't be more than 20 people there, if we make it through this it will be a miracle.'

"Who are those riff raff? Are they the powerful rebels you were speaking of Archer? I see their numbers have dwindled in the past hours, I see no more than a dozen or so that even would be fit for a mission against the soldiers."

"Let me land this thing, then I will introduce you first hand, now can you sit back down or would you rather I land this while you bounce around the cabin?"

Taking his seat, Silik glared at the back of the sarcastic captain, 'He has changed throughout his journey through the Expanse, he seems more cutthroat, it suits him well.'

When the travelers finally arrived, they were greeted by the presence of twenty odd humans who were eager to see who piloted the amazing ship.

"Alicia, it is good to see you again, how have you been?"

"I am fine, how is the Enterprise? Captain?"

Lost again in the beauty radiating off the woman standing in front of him, Archer seemed lost for words for a moment. "It is doing fine Alicia, so this is the whole of the rebel army?"

"All that I could round up, let me introduce you to some of them."

When all the introductions had been made, Archer motioned for Silik to leave the shuttle pod. "Alicia will take us to the facility, hopefully with the distraction I have planned we can sneak into the facility unnoticed."

"That is a big thing to leave to such inadequate individuals, I believe a weapon would help me better our situation."

"Sorry, I still don't trust you enough for me to hand you a weapon."

With that said, the group got underway, the lab was surrounded by a 50 some odd soldiers. Scanning the obstacle, Archer tried to find the best way to get around them or at least distract them enough so he and Silik could march past.

"Fire! We will create some Moltov cocktails, throw them into the centralized unit and hope that enough of them are burned or injured that Silik and I can sneak in."

"Sounds good, but where do you think we can get enough booze for us to accomplish this feat of brilliance?"

"I assumed that you would have the adequate amounts of alcohol, I mean I thought the city ran on booze."

"That may have been true 4 years ago, but the Germans are the only ones who have any type of liquor left."

"Well, that could cause a slight hitch in my plans, regardless we must come up with a strong enough blast that will cause the enemy to head in a direction other than the one Silik and I are headed toward."

"Might I suggest they just shoot some of the Germans, I would assume that would cause enough of the force to hasten to their location. Ensuring us of a quiet place with which we can enter Vosk's facility."

"Do you have enough people to accomplish this Alicia?"

"We won't let you down Jonathan, but you must promise me that you will come back and make sure that this does not happen to anyone else. Promise?"

"I promise you Alicia, you will be safe."

"Understood, Captain."

Taking the rebels in hand, Alicia lead them to their objective. 'Hopefully, I will see you after this Jonathan, I wouldn't want you to miss out on my surprise.'

"Alright Silik, what do you propose we do? I mean with them making a distraction, it should give us plenty of time to get inside."

"I agree Captain, but I still must voice my doubts that they will prove an effective diversion."

"You let me worry about that, you just get ready to blow up that lab."

With everyone in place, Alicia got the signal from Archer, 'I hope to God this works, if it doesn't we are dead as doornails.'

"Alright troops, Fire!"

Compiling in a cramped alley gave the rebels a better chance at fighting the Germans one on one. Thus the Nazi's size advantage was negated, coming in one by one the Germans were picked off by random gunfire.

Hearing the enormous commotion, Archer motioned for Silik to follow him into the compound. 'I hope they can keep it up long enough, I know how many of those Germans they are facing. It will be a slaughter if we don't do this right the first time, but first things first, I need to find my Chief Engineer.'

Weaving their way through the facility, Archer and Silik soon happened upon a control panel. "Archer, do you believe you can accomplish your goal from here?"

"I believe so, but when I do start the process, the Germans will be breathing down my throat in minutes."

"Very well, you start the procedure, I will make sure those Germans stay off your back for the time being."

Surprised by the events transpiring around him, Archer just took it all in, 'I guess even men bent on war, can be realistic when they want to be.'

Working quickly, Archer disabled the security systems located throughout the base. 'This should give Alicia a fighting chance, hopefully it will be enough.' Delving through all the data, Archer soon found the overdrive switches, 'Okay, when I set this off there will be at least 30 minutes for us to get out of here. More than enough time, assuming the Germans don't hinder us in anyway.'

"Archer, are you through?"

"Yes, what do you need?"

"It is not what I need, it is what is coming. There is a battalion heading down the corridor at this very minute, I suggest we find cover and hide out for the duration they are present."

"Agreed, but where can we hide in this place, I don't see anywhere that would not be visible in this light."

"We will have to make due, they are coming!"

Sounds of boots clicking on the marble floor reached Archer's ears, 'This is just great, I wonder if their equipped with any of our technology?'

Hiding among the machinery, Archer peered over the side and surveyed a regiment of 20 men. 'Seems kind of small, I wonder if the rest are dealing with Alicia?'

Motioning at the men, Silik conveyed his need for a weapon, Archer steadfastly refused the alien menace. During the time when they were having their non-verbal conversation the regiment had positioned themselves all around the room. Looking at his watch, Archer was amazed how time flew when you had Germans next to you.

Believing it best to stun them and run, Archer abandoned his hiding place and stunned four of the soldiers. 'Well four down, about 16 more to go. How do I get into these messes?'

Revealing himself once more, Archer took down two more, but not without a few dozen bullets ricocheting off his hiding place. "Archer, I need a weapon!"

"Sorry, only one I got."

Completely disgusted by Archer's lack of understanding, Silik took it into his own hands. Leaping across the room he incapacitated 4 of the soldiers, retrieving their pathetic weapons Silik killed six more of them.

Impressed with the speed shown by the time agent, Archer took out two more while they were preoccupied with the leaping lizard. 'I have to learn some of those moves, it would be useful if I ever came across a lethal threat and was forced to incapacitate them and remove their weapons.'

Finishing off the last two, Silik motioned for Archer to rush out from hiding and leave the facility immediately. "That was some good work, but I still need to find my crewman. Do you know where you stored him?"

"I have no idea, he could be anywhere in this lab."

"You can go on ahead, I need to find Trip. It is a matter of duty, plus I can't leave him here in the 1940's, I mean what would he do?"

"I have no qualms in leaving you here Archer, but be warned the next time we meet it will be as….ugh…" It seemed that one of the soldier's supposedly dead had enough energy to deliver 4 bullets into Silik's midsection.

"I did not want to die like this, it is most unbecoming."

"I'll get you some help, just hang on."

"No, it is no use. I accept my death, but I wish to thank you. You have been a most formidable foe, I would have liked to face you in a match to the death, but that is not possible now. Therefore, I hope that you will find your destiny and achieve the things that I have always dreamed about. Goodbye, Captain Archer."

Staring down at the person who had caused him so much grief, Archer understood what Silik was always searching for. 'He was always looking for a way to make his world safe, I guess he could have done things differently, but that was just his way.'

"Captain?"

Turning around Archer found to his relief that Trip was standing right there, "Commander, it is good to see you."

"The mask won't fool me Silik, I know it is you. Cut out the act before I blow a hole the size of a dinner plate through your head."

"I hope you won't do that Commander, because I don't want you doing something you would regret later on." Stepping aside, Archer presented the dead body of Silik, "He was gunned down by one of the soldiers, took most of the shots in the chest."

"Is he really dead this time?"

"I don't know, but I think so."

"That means you really are the Captain?"

"Unless there are more of these clones that I don't know about. How you feeling Commander?"

"Feeling fine, sir. Just glad to see you in one piece, how did you escape from the explosion?"

Remembering the countdown, Archer looked back toward the coils of the power generators, "I believe that will have to be explained later, for now we got to get out of here before we are caught in the explosion."

"Sounds good to me, lead the way."

Retracing his steps, Archer and Trip finally found their way back to Alicia and her rag tag band of rebels. "I would suggest you pull back Alicia, this explosion will encompass the entire facility."

"Sounds like a plan, troops on my mark. Fall back!!"

Taking the wounded back to their vehicles the rebels drove off, "Archer to Enterprise, go for it."

"Understood, Captain."

Sending four photon torpedoes barreling at the facility, Enterprise demolished it in one fell swoop.

"Good work, Sub-Commander. Please send a shuttle pod to retrieve Commander Tucker and myself."

"Yes, sir."

Watching as the fires destroyed the only hope of Vosk's race, 'I wonder, what gives me the right to destroy another civilization to save my own? Will it all work out in the end? Or will the repercussions spread throughout my remaining life?'

"Jonathan? Are you there?"

"Alicia, yes I am here. You wanted to see me?"

"Yes, I wanted to thank you, without your help it would not have been possible to destroy that base. It was one of our long time goals, we have accomplished it thanks to you and your crew."

"No thanks are necessary, I mean you did most of the work, I just provided the fireworks."

"Indeed, but there is one more thing I must ask of you. Will you promise me first?"

"I don't know what it is your asking, how can I promise you something if I don't know what it is?"

"Just promise me, Jonathan. It is all I will ever ask of you."

"Fine, I promise. Now what is this request that seems so urgent?"

"I wish to stay aboard the Enterprise, how's that sound?"

"Wha…ummm…hmmm…that is ludicrous. I mean you can't stay aboard, what about your family here?"

"There is no family here, no friends, nothing. This world is dead to me, I need a fresh start."

"But…I mean how is coming aboard going to help?"

"It will be something new?"

"I understand that part, but still, I mean how will you adapt?"

"I am not some little girl, I know how to do things. Is there anything else Jonathan?"

"I can't, Alicia, no matter how much I want to."

"You promised me Jonathan, don't start breaking promises to women it is a very bad habit."

"But the timeline, how will this affect it?"

"I have no idea, but all I know is that I wish to stay by your side. Whether it be in this time or the next."

"I still have misgivings about this, I mean it could cause utter chaos to ensue, whole cities might disappear. Who knows the ramifications?"

'For once think with your heart Archer, don't make us force you into it.'

Feeling the unease settle in once more, Archer found another presence within his mind. 'Who are you people? And why do you care so much about my life?'

'In time you will understand, but for now you will need Alicia. We recommend that you take her with you. What does your heart say?'

'The same, but what about the timeline?'

'Daniels messed with the timeline, how bout a little payback?'

'Still, this could cause things to be very dangerous…:'

"Archer? Jonathan?"

"Hmmm….? Oh Alicia, sorry I was lost in thought. I still don't think this is a good idea, but if it is what you wish for…then by all means."

Surprised by the ease of her victory, Alicia still knew not to look a gift horse in the mouth. Throwing her arms around Jonathan, Alicia delivered kiss after kiss, onto the unsuspecting captain.

"Thank you, Jonathan. Is this the shuttle?"

"….hmmm…yea…shuttle…thingy…"

As anyone could tell Archer was not having one of his better moments, having kisses rained down upon you will do that to a man.

Gaining a new crewmember and returning with his Chief Engineer, Archer was feeling good about himself. 'I know that this will throw the whole ship for a loop, but I always said that Chef could use a helping hand. And with the way Alicia can cook, I have no doubt that the food on the Enterprise will be top-notch.'

"Permission to come aboard?"

"It is your ship Captain, it would be illogical of me to detain you further."

"I know, but it is just so much fun asking. T'pol, I assume you know Alicia?"

"Yes, I have seen her profile on the database. Although, I am confused to know what she is doing on board Enterprise?"

"Well, we'll discuss that later, for now I just want a nice clean bath and a good bed to sleep in."

"Understood, Captain. Will you require permanent residence Mrs.?"

"It is just Miss, and the name is Alicia Travers."

"Of course, Miss Travers."

"Thank you for your hospitality T'pol is it?"

"Sub-Commander."

"Yes…Sub-Commander."

Being in the middle of a cat fight is bad, being in the middle of cat fight over you is something that Archer had never seen before. 'Okay, this is getting a little tense. Maybe I should escort Alicia myself?'

"T'pol, I will escort Miss Travers to her accommodations. Please send Commander Tucker to Sickbay."

"Understood, sir." With a final glance at the woman currently hanging onto Archer, T'pol ordered some crewmen to escort Trip to Sickbay.

'What has come over me? I meant no disrespect to Miss Travers, but it was initiated nonetheless. I must meditate further on this event, it would not bode well if I embarrassed myself further by those foolish antics.'

Walking down the corridor Archer felt a little confused, 'Is it just me or is T'pol acting stranger everyday? I mean what happened back there? It started out as a nice conversation, then it turned into a tense life or death situation. I think I should speak with her in private after I escort Alicia to her quarters.'

"Jonathan? Are you alright? Is it about what happened earlier?"

"Huh? Oh, no just musing on what it would feel like when I soaked in a tub for 3 weeks. It has been so long since I had myself a good soak in the tub, it really relaxes the muscles and eases the tension from everyday life."

"Oh, that sounds wonderful. Would I be so bold as to ask if the tub is big enough for two?"

Turning a shade of red that would make a tomato jealous, Archer didn't know how to respond to a question like that. "Uhh…I believe it can fit…but it would not be prudent or wise."

Giggling at the captain's noble demeanor, as well as the thought of a nude Archer, Alicia let the comment slide for the moment. 'There is plenty of time to catch up on those things, first things first, I must make sure I can be of some use on this ship, boat, plane, oh whatever this thing is.'

"These are you living quarters, I welcome you aboard the Enterprise."

"Thank you, Jonathan. I have not yet expressed my gratitude for your devotion to Earth's cause."

"I have done nothing that was not necessary, it was my pleasure to help you in any way I could."

"Still, I would like to show you a touch of my gratitude." Embracing the taller man, Alicia reached up and brought Archer's lips to her own. They shared a moment of untold joy, then as quick as it happened it was over.

"That is only the tip of the iceberg, but for now I will leave it at that. Thank you again Jonathan."

Mumbling something along the lines of "my pleasure", Archer headed down the hallway. 'I have got to learn how to better anticipate those types of things, I mean it has happened more times than is normal. What the devil is happening around here? I am not complaining, though I would like to have an explanation for all the events that are transpiring around me.'

Taking a quick detour, Archer headed to his own cabin, 'I better take a shower before I see T'pol, who knows how bad I smell right now.'

Once the door had closed behind him, Archer knew that Daniels had something to do with what he was seeing in front of him.

"Why hello, how is everything Captain?"

"Don't hello me, I have been taken prisoner by Nazi's, blown up by Xindi, and who knows what else you have subjected my crew to. What the heck is going on here Daniels?"

"Nothing more than what has to take place for things to be right on the timeline."

"Well, a little fair warning would be appreciated every now and then."

"I am sorry about the sudden slips through time, but it was necessary for everyone in my timeline to survive."

"How bout what is happening in my crew's life? What about them?"

"Well, they are the ancestors of my people, I would assume that they must live for us to have a real future."

"This is getting more and more complicated, why don't you just explain what happened and the reason you are here?"

"Very well, as you know, Vosk was thwarted thanks to you."

"No, it was thanks to my crew and the rebels."

"True, but it would not have been possible without you. Thus, it is you that is important not the rest of your crew."

"Enough with the idol worshiping, get on with it."

"Fine, with Vosk done messing with the timeline, the worlds of mine and yours are fine now. It is all in balance once more, again I must thank you."

"So that's it? That's the end? No more visits from you?"

"Well, not exactly, you see we must take into account your requisition of Miss Travers."

"What do you mean by requisition? That is a human being your talking about."

"Very well, with Miss Travers on your ship, the timeline might be affected. I must insist that you return her to where she was before."

"And why exactly should I do that? The amount of damage you have done greatly outweighs any single thing that could be done by Alicia. Thus I refuse your orders Daniels."

"It might grossly affect your time Archer, do you still insist on continuing on this course of action?"

"I have told you my decision, now all I want is for you to leave."

"I will, in due time, but first I must send you and your crew back to your correct time. Wouldn't that be better than staying in the 1940's?"

"You are the one who sent us back here in the first place, so I don't think you have anything to be proud of."

"Such a lack of gratitude?"

"Oh get on with it you pompous blowhard. Unless, you wish to see the crew contaminate the whole of your precious timeline."

"Fine, although a little appreciation wouldn't kill you."

"Alright, fine, I am very grateful to you for your time manipulating powers. Is that enough appreciation?"

"You don't have to be so sarcastic, regardless, I would advise you to hold onto something Archer. It's going to be a bumpy ride."

"What is there to hold onto? I mean we are in the vacuum of space, do you want me to cling to a meteor?"

Shaking his head, Daniels initiated the process that would take Archer and his crew home.

Lights flashing across his eyes, Archer saw 400 years of history pass in front of his eyes. 'This would make a great story, I wonder if I could get a book deal from this?'

"T'pol to Captain Archer, T'pol to Captain Archer. Do you read me sir?"

Back in his own room, Archer hit the intercom button, "I read you loud and clear T'pol. What do you have to report?"

"I believe it would be more advantageous if you looked for yourself Captain."

"I am on my way. Archer out."

Racing toward the lift, Archer only had one thing on his mind, 'Did we finally get back to our own time? Or did Daniels mess up again?'

Walking through the lift doors, Archer looked around at his astonished crew, "Report, what is happening?"

"Look at the screen sir, you will see something in the lower right hand corner."

"Magnify Ensign."

"Yes, sir."

Looking at the screen Archer almost leap for joy, because he could finally make out 10 dozen starships headed toward his direction.

"All the ships are hailing us sir. Admiral Forrest wishes to speak with you immediately sir."

"I will take it in my ready room Hoshi. Please transmit it there."

When the Captain had left the bridge, the whole ship was rocked with shouts of joy and rapture. They were home, finally home.

Author's Notes: Well how was the third installment? Hopefully, you guys liked it as much as I liked writing it. Anyways, remember to Read and Review, please? Peace, I'm out.