Knowledge is Power

Disclaimer: I do not own any of the characters on Enterprise, please don't sue me.

Trying to sort out all his recent experiences, Archer hoped that he was ready to greet the Admiral. With a beep to announce his presence Forrest appeared on a screen in the middle of Archer's desk.

"Captain, it is good to see you. I see that you have completed your mission, otherwise we would not be meeting today."

"True, sir. Though I will not take any credit, it is the work of the crew that got the mission accomplished. I just supervised things, sir."

"A likely story, with your type of leadership, I wouldn't be surprised if you were going through all the missions yourself. Flying gung-ho into traps and ambushes, don't kid a kidder Captain, it is obvious that you contributed your fair share."

Chuckling silently to himself, Archer mused on how true the Admiral's statements were. "I must insist that without the crew, it would have been a total disaster. I would also like to recommend badges of courage and honor, for those that did not make it back."

"I see, I will have the applications processed immediately, for now just get that ship home Captain. I see it has taken quite a beating out in the Delphic Expanse."

"Yes, sir. Captain Archer out."

Terminating the communication, Archer looked through his porthole and viewed the Earth, 'Just thinking about it, I cannot believe we actually did it. The human race was this close to being extinct, but because of the bravery shown in my crew we have truly saved mankind.'

Feeling a little walk was in order, Archer exited his ready room, and headed onto the bridge to inform the crew of the missions success. Nodding his head at T'pol and Hoshi, "Ensign, may I have ship wide?"

"Yes, sir."

"This is the Captain speaking, we are home, I would like to thank you for your hard work and dedication. I would also like to ask for a minute of silence to remember those lost during this mission."

Waiting a moment before speaking, Archer addressed the rest of what he planned to say, "It is time to return home, remember those who have fallen and honor their names by passing on their legacy of passion and determination that categorized each and every one of their lives."

Believing that it was time to silently slink away, Archer turned over control to T'pol and headed to his cabin.

During the time it took for him to get there, Archer pondered on what he would tell the Counsel, 'I have to tell them about Daniels, and our little adventures through time, but how will that sound to Ambassador Soval? It would confirm his notion that humans are not fit for space travel, and would most accurately hallucinate under pressure. Daniels wasn't a hallucination though, so how will I explain that to them? Damn these are the times that I hate to be Captain, always having to report to the head honcho's about every little thing we do out here in space.'

Arriving at his quarters, Archer was surprised to find Alicia there, "Hello Alicia, how may I help you this evening?"

"I was just dropping in, is that alright Captain?"

"There is no need for you to call me by that title, I mean you are not one of the crew under my command."

"Then what am I Jonathan? What will I do now? I mean I can't possibly live anywhere else but on this ship, I mean the world down there is too strange for the likes of me. And that is not taking into account all the possibilities of exposing that I am from the 1940's."

"Don't worry Alicia, I will help you through this transition. I will not leave you to fend for yourself in the world that is outside that window."

"Thank you Jonathan, it means a lot to me that you would help me cope with the world now."

"It was my fault for getting you dragged into this, it is only logical that I help you in whatever way possible."

Nodding her head, Alicia turned around presumably to head back to her quarters, but instead she ensnared Archer in a mind-numbing kiss. "Thank you again Jonathan."

'Okay, this is really getting bad, I have no control over my bodily functions when women do that.'

"Sir, is everything alright?"

Looking up, Archer found Corporal Amanda Cole staring down into his stunned face, "I am fine Corporal."

"Would you like some help sir?"

"No, I am fine." And quickly demonstrating this Archer hauled himself off the floor, 'I must have fallen down when Alicia released me, but why don't I remember that? All I can remember is the intense passion embedded in her lips.'

"Do you have duty at this moment Corporal?"

"No, sir."

"Then I will not keep you, I assume a young woman such as yourself has prior engagements."

"No, sir. In actuality, I was coming to see you sir. I heard you over the intercom, and would like to say that it is an honor to serve under you sir."

"There is no need for such things, I was just doing what anyone would do."

"I do not believe so, sir. I believe that you are a great captain, and even greater person for remembering those that have fallen during our journey."

"I am honored you think so highly of me Corporal, but I must enter my quarters, I cannot go to meet Admiral Forrest looking like this."

"I do not see anything wrong with your appearance sir."

"I am wearing a torn Starfleet uniform, and that is not something that he would notice?"

"I am sorry, sir. I meant your physical appearance, not the clothes you are wearing."

"Understood. Thank you for your time and concern Corporal, I will be entering now."

"Of course, sir. Have a nice evening, and I hope that your meeting with Admiral Forrest goes well."

"Thank you Corporal, that is nice of you to say."

Archer was staring at the soldier in front of him, she seemed to be fidgeting horribly. "Was there something else you needed Corporal?"

Looking down both corridors, Corporal Amanda Cole found that the coast was clear. With quick reflexes and a nimble form, Amanda soon had the drop on Captain Archer. Delivering a kiss every bit as passionate as Alicia's, Amanda seemed out to infuse her very being with the essence of Jonathan.

With a quick, "Thank you, sir.", Amanda ran down one of the adjoining corridors in search of her living quarters.

Again feeling like he had been made into putty, Archer looked down the direction Amanda had gone. 'That was unexpected…'

Finally getting enough energy into his limbs, Archer removed himself off the floor for the second time that day and entered his cabin.

Turning quickly toward his personal bathroom, Archer turned on the shower and made sure that it was steaming hot. 'Maybe a shower will clear my head, well clear my head enough for me to think what am I going to do about my current situations.'

Many hours later, Archer selected T'pol, Malcolm, Hoshi, and Trip to accompany him to the parade held in their honor.

"A parade, sir?"

"Yes, T'pol. It is to celebrate the destruction of the Xindi race, or something along those lines. I think they were severely misinformed, but the media is something that seems to be a constant in every decade. Always exaggerating or fanning the flames of hatred, it is any wonder if they would be so bold as to announce our crew as the saviors of the universe."

"Indeed, it would be most illogical to inform the public about such things that were likely falsehoods. Why must they continue?"

"It is to sell papers Sub-Commander."

"I do not understand, selling paper? What does that have anything to do with what they plan Ensign Sato?"

"It was a metaphor ma'am. In the old days, news was printed on paper, thus to sell those newspapers they had to fill them with interesting and controversial things. It is to excite the crowd and get them to buy the paper to read."

"Economic profit? That is absurd, with the current state of world affairs, the media continues to profit?"

"A sad but true fact, ma'am. If you will look out the side port you will see what I mean."

Looking out the window, T'pol witnessed a march of millions of people, all gathering to welcome the saviors of their planet.

"It may seem like a parade, but it is just the way the world works on Earth. It may seem a bit superficial and unconscionable but if that is how the people of Earth wish to celebrate their existence then I cannot say anything about it."

"A most stirring speech, sir. Will you be so vocal when you stand atop the podium and stare into the masses of faces that would never know what we have faced?"

"I don't need to be reminded they are ignorant Ensign, but I cannot blame them for it. It comes with the territory, I must ensure that their lives remain as it were. It seems illogical but that is how human nature is."

"I concur, it is most illogical sir. How does one weigh the events of a lifetime to a meager existence on this small planet?"

"Well, Sub-Commander this small planet is what we have been fighting for. And although it may seem that nothing has changed, I cannot lose hope that the world I have fought for still has a piece of goodness within it's core."

With that last statement, Archer returned to the controls of the shuttle pod and effectively ended the controversial conversation. 'It is true, there is nothing down there but ignorance and hate, but if I have fought for these things, what does that make me?'

Landing on the appropriate landing zone, Archer disembarked first, he was greeted with the cheers and jeers of millions of people. The crowd had waited over 5 days for the crew to come down from their lofty ship, and it seemed that they had opened a few bottles of liquor while they waited.

"Captain Archer, it is good to see you again."

"Admiral Forrest, likewise sir. This crowd is amazing, but isn't it a bit dangerous sir?"

"Don't worry so much, they are not here to kill us. They are here to welcome you back from a job well done, much like a hero's welcome after a most fruitful crusade."

"Unfortunately, this crusader does not have much to offer it's people. Just a broken ship and a dozen or so dead."

"That is incorrect sir. You have saved this planet, given these people hope, inspired them to be better people. A crusade sets forth to eliminate a threat, but yours has allied a sovereign race to your cause."

"Thank you, Sub-Commander."

"Sub-Commander T'pol? I have heard great things from Captain Archer, it is good to see you once more."

"Thank you, Admiral Forrest."

"Just as I remembered, and who else have you brought with you Jon?"

"May I introduce, Ensign Hoshi Sato."

"It is an honor to meet you sir."

"The honor is all mine, it is not often I meet a genius in person. How goes the translation of the Xindi language?"

"It is coming along fine sir."

"I wish you good luck on all your endeavors young lady."

"Thank you, sir."

"Commander Charles Tucker III"

"It is good to meet you sir."

"As you young man, I knew your father, he was a good man, plus he could drink anybody under the table."

"Haha….yes…that he could. How is he?"

"He is fine, I know you must be very worried, but after our preliminary reports you will have an adequate amount of time to catch up on things at home. On a more serious note, I give you my condolences for your sister."

"Thank you sir."

"She was a fine young lady, most becoming of a person coming from the Tucker household."

"Yes she was. Thank you again sir."

"No, it my thanks to you."

Following the sorrowful moment, Archer introduced the final member of his entourage "Lieutenant Commander Malcolm Reed".

"An honor sir."

"No need for such formality soldier, it is good to see you again. How long has it been Malcolm?"

"5 years sir."

"Yes, I remember it well. You have grown to be an outstanding gentleman Malcolm. Your parents would be proud."

"Thank you for your kind words sir."

"It is only the truth, you have been a fine addition to Captain Archer's bridge crew. I understand that you are a bit trigger happy though?"

"No, sir. I anticipate hostile activity, and deliver appropriate countermeasures."

"Yeah, I'll believe that when I see it with my own eyes. Again it is good to see you Malcolm."

"You as well sir."

Accompanying Archer to the podium, Forrest relayed the message that was received just minutes ago. "The crowd is a bit antsy, so I think things should get underway before we have a full blown riot on our hands. Try not to get them too agitated Jon."

"I make no promises, sir."

"Disobeying a direct order?"

"No, commenting on the weather sir."

Eyes filled with mirth, Forrest let Archer be, 'That man is going to be the end of me soon.'

Clearing his throat Archer addressed the crowd, "It is an honor to be here this morning, I wish to thank you for all the support that you have shown us in the past. Thank you as well for the amount of praise that you shower us with, but I wish to take a minute to recount the names of those that have fallen in the line of duty…Ensign Keller…Sergeant Hawkins…."

Afterwards, Archer stepped down from the podium and headed toward his crew.

"That was beautiful sir."

"Thank you Hoshi, I wished to express my gratitude for the people who lost their lives."

"Honoring their memory is something that comes easy to humans, but I wish to also express my amazement at your articulate speech."

"I don't know whether to take that as a compliment or a insult, but thank you as well T'pol. So what'd you guys think of it? Malcolm? Trip?"

"It was a elegant presentation sir. Most befitting of those that lost their lives during our mission."

"Thank you Malcolm."

"What he said…"

"Trip, I think you and I have to work on expression your emotions more."

"Oh, don't go all soft on me Jon. What I meant to say was that was a good thing you did. And how wonderful it made me feel."

"Okay now who's the one getting all mushy?"

"Okay, okay your right. I always get misty-eyed when I talk to you haha."

"Can the jokes Commander, and let's all get back to the ship. We have some things to do before we can all go on vacation."

"Sounds good to me, Cap'n."

With the crowd screaming his name, Archer boarded the shuttle pod feeling like a movie star. 'They really have to start making movies again, I can't believe the amount of women that seemed to be bursting with the urge to flaunt themselves in front of celebrities. It would surely detract the attention away from me at the very least.'

Upon their return to the ship, the Captain and his crew went their separate ways. Although since T'pol needed to head to her room as well, Archer decided to escort her back and return to his own room moments afterward.

"Are you excited about returning home T'pol? You haven't been to Vulcan in ages…"

"Incorrect, it has merely been 3 years that I have been gone. That hardly counts as a age sir."

"3 years is a long time for us humans, I had forgotten that a era in our time might just be a stepping stone in yours."

"Taking into consideration the amount of time that is in an era, it can be assumed that you are referring to a ten year period of time?"

"Well, it can be that yes."

"Then it is not a "stepping stone" as you inadequately put it, but more a crossing."

"I don't know what it is, but for us it is important and something that we as humans cherish."

"Although, we do not cherish things, Vulcans do acknowledge that 10 years is enough to peak one's interest."

"I can't believe we got onto this tangent, were we not talking about your visit to Vulcan?"

"I did not mean to draw us down a path that would make you uncomfortable sir."

"I am not uncomfortable, I just wanted to know how we got on the subject of era's is all."

Shaking his head, Archer found to his relief that T'pol's quarters were up ahead. "Well it has been a most interesting conversation, T'pol. Thank you for the mind trip, although it was fun to get into a schematics argument with a Vulcan."

Turning around Archer headed toward his cabin, although he had a slight problem, he didn't seem to be moving and his arm seemed to be aching. Turning around once more, Archer discovered the reason for his immobility. T'pol seemed to gain a vice-like grip on his arm, "T'pol is there a reason that you are crushing my arm?"

Releasing his arm like it was made from molten lava, T'pol hastily explained her actions.

"I am sorry Captain, but I wished to ask you a question."

"And you had to grab my arm, because?"

"It was the most expedient solution to my dilemma."

"Okay, now you got my attention what is that you wish to ask me?"

If Archer didn't know any better T'pol seemed to be blushing, or something to that effect, it is hard to tell when instead of a pink tinge on her cheeks, it was more of a olive green.

"Do you wish to accompany me to Vulcan sir?"

"Vulcan? I haven't been there before, but why the sudden invitation?"

Not wishing to dictate the actual reason, T'pol instead chose to distract him from his questioning. "I am visiting my mother, and wish to meditate on all the things that have transpired in the Expanse."

"Sounds like mountains of fun, but I think that I would be ill-suited to meeting your mother and the rest of the Vulcan consulate."

"It is illogical to assume that, it may be a situation where you may feel comfortable."

"I severely doubt that, but if it means that much to you I will accompany you."

"Thank you sir, I assure you it will not cause you any overt discomfort."

"Not exactly the winning salesman approach, but I agreed and I fulfill my promises."

Bowing her head in thanks, T'pol seemed to be deep in thought while Archer felt it was time to pack for this little excursion.

"Well if that is all, then I will have to pack some essentials for the trip to Vulcan."

"One moment sir, I have one more thing to ask you."

"Which is?"

"I ask that you keep a open mind when we arrive on Vulcan, it would be inconsiderate otherwise."

"And odd request, but not something I cannot do. I will try my best to keep an open mind T'pol."

"Thank you sir."

With that said, Archer walked toward his cabin to pack for the trip. 'The captain will be confused, but I believe it will be for the best. I must believe it is for the best, if I am incorrect then things will get "hairy" as the humans say.'

4 hours later

"So how long does it take to get to Vulcan T'pol?"

"Approximately 8 hours sir."

"Well I'd say we have traveled for 3 hours, thus another 5. With 5 hours to kill, I suggest we make small talk, it's something to do."

"I don't understand sir. How do you talk small?"

"It was a expression, I just meant we should talk about the things we would be doing when we get there. I assume that we will be meeting with your mother?"

"Yes, we will be staying at her residence."

"I see, so how is the climate of Vulcan? Cold? Hot? Humid?"

"It is a dry and hot atmosphere, many humans compare it to your Desert Valley."

"I see, dry and inhabitable, this will be a walk in the park."

"There are no parks where we are heading sir."

"Never mind, how is your mother?"

"From the various communiqué that I have received she is the best of health."

"Good for her, now I just have to get used to the heat of the desert and we will be right as rain."

"Sir?"

"Disregard, those statements which seem unfamiliar to you."

"Yes sir."

5 hours later

"We have arrived sir. Initiating landing sequence now."

"Take her in nice and slow T'pol."

"I do know how to pilot a shuttle pod sir."

"My apologies Sub-Commander."

When they had finished the landing procedures, Archer was greeted with the heat that was the mainstay of Vulcan life. 'Okay, so T'pol might have been a little lenient with the amount of heat that she described. It feels like I walking on the face of the sun.'

"Sir? Are you okay?"

"I am fine T'pol. I see some individuals approaching, are they friends of yours?"

"I believe they were sent by the emissary, a crude welcome committee if you will."

"Ahh…Is it always this hot T'pol?"

"No sir."

"Thank heavens."

"This is the coolest part of the day."

"Damn, this is going to be bad."

"Sir?"

"Never mind, let's go and meet the crude committee."

Traveling down the steps, Archer tried to greet the newcomers with a handshake, but they seemed horrified by the very thought. 'Okay, must be my human coodies.'

"Captain Archer?"

"Yes, I am he."

"Please follow us sir."

Following the two Vulcans down the path, or at least he thought it was a path, it could have been a dirt road for all he knew. Archer was amazed that not one drop of sweat was forming on T'pol's fair skin. While, unfortunately or fortunately, depending on how you look at it, Archer was pouring sweat.

"Sir? Would you like some water perhaps?"

"That sounds wonderful T'pol, I would love some."

"There will certainly be refreshments when we reach the emissary."

"So no water right now?"

"No sir."

"You are cruel T'pol, do you know that?"

"I don't understand sir."

"Forget it, how much farther? Excuse me? Yes, you…how much farther?"

One of the individuals turned toward Archer and motioned with his hand that looked like a 2. "Two more minutes? 2 more miles? What?"

"I believe he is trying to say that it will be 2 more minutes sir."

"Thank you T'pol."

When they finally arrived at the embassy, it could be said that Archer was feeling a little worn out. While both the newcomers and T'pol seemed fine and dandy. 'I really need to institute some survival training courses on the ship, this is ridiculous I am feeling like I walked 2000 miles and they are breathing like it was a walk through the countryside.'

Appearing from a adjacent room was someone that Archer clearly didn't want to see, Ambassador Soval greeted T'pol with the customary Vulcan greeting, and appraised the current state of Captain Archer.

Archer couldn't prove it but he thought he saw the tiniest hint of a smile forming on Soval's face, and not the kind of gentle smile, no this was the smile that said "What an inferior species, can't even take a little walk through the desert."

"Captain Archer, a pleasure as always."

"My apologies Ambassador, but I seem to be dripping all over your marble floor."

Twitching just a slight bit, Soval took it in stride and addressed Archer once more, "It is common with your species, pay it no mind. What are you currently exploring on Vulcan?"

"I am accompanying T'pol to her mother's house."

"I see, T'pol did not inform me of this event."

"Well, I guess some things are best kept as a surprise, so Surprise!"

Feeling his second wind, Archer stopped hunching over and stood tall. Which meant standing about a head taller than Ambassador Soval, 'I distinctly remember that I was shorter than him, oh well things come to those who wish for it.'

"Very well, I will not keep you. T'pol remember to report to me before leaving Vulcan."

"Yes Ambassador."

"Would you like me to send a note as well Ambassador? I mean I would not want you to worry."

Stiffening slightly, Soval bit back his scathing remark and decided to let the primate have his time in the sun. "Indeed."

Laughing on the inside Archer walked toward the doors that he assumed would lead him to transportation to T'pol's mother's home.

"Sir? Where are you heading?"

"To the vehicle, aren't we taking a pod to your mother's residence?"

"No sir, it is a mere 2 miles from this embassy. I believe it would be more appropriate if we walked sir."

Severely disappointed Archer nodded his ascent, 'I really have to get those survival things in place, she is going to kill me.'

"But before we go, can I please have a glass of water?"

"Of course sir, this way."

Drinking his fill of the clear but slightly warm water, Archer was ready for the sun-scorched earth that wait outside.

Preparing himself, Archer again stepped out into the blistering heat, and found that it wasn't as bad as last time. 'Must be the water in my gut. Something to cool me down while my body fries like an omelet.'

Trudging through the wasteland that the Vulcans called home, Archer took in all the sights and sounds of Vulcan. Which meant desert, desert, and more desert.

Feeling like a egg boiled too long, Archer was on the verge of exhaustion when T'pol stopped in front of a humble abode.

"This is your mother's home?"

"Yes sir."

Stepping out from the house, was a woman who did not look past the age of 40. She seemed to radiate with the same beauty that cascaded all over T'pol, invoking the tradition Vulcan greeting T'pol's mother greeted both Archer and T'pol.

"It is good to see you again T'pol. Who is this?"

"This is Captain Archer mother, he is my superior officer."

"Captain Archer."

"Ma'am. This is a nice home you have here."

"Thank you Captain, but I suggest we take the conversation inside. You seem a bit tired."

Bowing in gratitude, Archer almost raced inside the home. And once he had entered he was assailed with the coolness of the house, or more accurately the less hot of the house. Meaning it was still hot, but now he could say he wasn't walking on the face of the sun anymore, now he was in the oven at home.

"Thank you for your hospitality….ummm…"

"T'les, and do not worry about the floor Captain."

Staring down Archer discovered the same marble tiles decorating T'les's home. "I am deeply sorry, ma'am."

"She waived your apology sir. It is illogical to repeat yourself."

"Thank you for your observations T'pol."

Escorting him to his bedroom, T'pol seemed to be a bit tense whenever her mother appeared. "Something wrong T'pol? You seem on edge."

"No sir. I am fine."

"Whatever you say, but remember you can always talk to me."

"Thank you sir."

Taking his belongings Archer decorated his temporary abode, 'Let's see it is hot as heck, but it sure is clean. And it seems that the heat has staved off for now.'

Walking outside T'pol came face to face with T'les, "Hello mother."

"Daughter, is he the man that you have chosen?"

"I don't understand mother?"

"Yes or no?"

Sighing slightly, T'pol answered her mother, "Yes."

"I see, he is strong but is he strong enough?"

"I believe so mother."

"Time will tell, but for now I insist that you feed the captain."

"Yes mother."

"He will need his strength, I doubt his stamina."

Shaking her head T'pol went inside to arrange a meal for her Captain, 'I must ensure that Jonathan receives enough nourishment for the conflict ahead.'

"T'pol, are you making dinner?"

Startled by the sudden sounds of Archer, T'pol dropped the bowl she was holding. It shattered on the marble floor, "I am so sorry T'pol, I didn't mean to scare you."

"It is quite alright sir. It was my fault, I should have been more careful."

Both Archer and T'pol stooped to pick up the broken bowl pieces, "So about before, are you making dinner?"

"Yes, it is customary for the host to feed the guest."

"But you just came home, I don't think it is right for you to make dinner for me."

"It is custom, I will adhere to them."

"I can at least help a little."

"That will not be necessary, I am proficient enough to cook the meal."

Trying his best to help, Archer could not get past the Vulcan scientist, "Captain, I assure you that my daughter is most able to cook a simple meal. Please join me in the garden, I wish to discuss a few things with you."

Turning as pale as a Vulcan can, T'pol tried her best to keep the remaining visages of calm that she could manage. "You okay T'pol?"

"I am fine captain."

"Okay…so what is it you wanted to talk about ma'am?"

Leading Archer through the doors of her home, T'les tried to not chuckle at her daughter's panic-stricken face. "I wished to discuss the continued employment of my daughter aboard your ship."

"I would gladly accept her on my ship, she is the finest scientific officer's I have ever had the chance to meet."

"Does she disrupt your crew? Many humans are resentful toward Vulcans for holding them back from space travel."

Surprised by how accurate T'les's statement was, Archer took a moment to think of a suitable answer. "There was a time when my crew and I resented T'pol for her lineage, but it has long since passed. I depend on her for her logical sense during the heat of battle and also when I become overtly emotional."

"Do you often have these fits of emotion?"

"It is human to feel emotions such as anger, sadness, and joy. But I am assuming you are speaking of the more aggressive driven times. I have found that those incidents are becoming less frequent within the past few months. I think it is due to your daughter's influence that has reigned in my emotional outbursts."

"I understand, it would seem it is in the best interest of my daughter if she continued aboard your ship."

"Dinner is ready, Captain? Mother?"

"Thank you T'pol, I will be in immediately."

"I will be in shortly daughter."

Nodding her head T'pol and Archer entered the house, 'He is emotional, but admits that he is, truly a unique trait in a human. Maybe T'pol has chosen wisely, he may just be strong enough to turn the tide.'

After a quick supper, Archer and T'pol retired to the living room, or whatever they called the room with the most space. "This is a nice home T'pol, I thank you again for inviting me."

"You are welcome sir. I have something I wish to discuss with you Captain."

"Hmm? What is the matter?"

"I recently…" T'pol was interrupted when there came a knock at the front door. Intrigued Archer stood up and answered the door, he discovered a Vulcan male looking down on him when he opened the door.

"Is T'pol here?"

"Hi, and yes she is here. T'pol there is someone to see you."

Knowing who it was, T'pol escorted the individual out the door and into the garden. 'That was interesting, I have never seen a Vulcan that mad before, I mean Soval gets irritated but the fury in that man's eyes is intense.'

"Koss, what is it that you want here?"

"I have come to bring you home, you are my wife."

"Did you not receive my letter?"

"I did, but I wish to continue with the marriage."

"Why? I mean you can obtain another."

"I do not do this because of my parents, I do this for myself. I want you T'pol."

"I must return to the Enterprise."

"Is the decision due to political reasons? Or a more personal matter?"

"I do not understand."

"Is it due to the human captain currently seated in your mother's home?"

"That is illogical, it is absurd to think that I will return to Enterprise because of the Captain."

"Then why?"

"It is my duty and he has need of me."

"You are my wife, I need you more."

"I cannot leave, I am sorry."

"Then I invoke my right to fight for you."

"A fight to the death?"

"Yes, do you wish him as your champion?"

"I will not endanger the captain in something that concerns only us."

"Then you will fight me?"

"No, I accept your challenge." Coming out from his hiding place Archer watched the two Vulcans.

"Captain, this is a private conversation. This has nothing to do with you."

"I believe it has some effect on my ship, I will not let my second in command and the best science officer go without a fight."

"I accept your challenge Captain Archer."

"When?"

"Now."

Seeming to forget all about T'pol, both Archer and Koss moved further away from the house. When they were far enough away, Koss drew a circle no more than 5 feet in circumference. "Whoever steps out of the ring is the loser. Understand?"

"Perfectly." Archer could not help but wonder why he of all people was fighting for a Vulcan. 'I really need to see the doc about these bouts of heroism. They are going to get me killed one of these days.'

"Captain, it is not necessary for you to do this. The matter is between Koss and me. I advise you to step out of the ring and walk away from this."

"He cannot, he has already accepted the challenge. His life is forfeit if he crosses over the line."

"Well, that really bites. Guess I'm in this for the long term T'pol. Wish me luck, cause I am sure I am going to need it."

"I am sorry for dragging you into this Captain, it was not your fight."

"We'll talk about it later, well if I get a later."

Circling their opponents, both Archer and Koss tried their best to find some sort of weakness in the other's defense. 'He is human, slow and clumsy, I will dispatch of him in mere moments. He was foolish for accepting the challenge, his arrogance will cost him dearly.'

'Okay, so he's faster, stronger, and more flexible than I am. Those aren't such big things, I mean they are but, oh who am I kidding? I am in so much trouble.'

Feeling a slight tingle, Archer felt a presence in his mind, one all too familiar. 'So you got yourself into another mess? This does not bode well for you, but we cannot do anything with a dead body so we must help you.'

'And you are?'

'Don't worry about it so much; you got some more important things on your hands. I would duck if I were you.'

Taking the thing's advice, Archer ducked a swing that would have cleanly taken off his head. 'Okay no more small talk, I need to concentrate on this battle.'

'That is what I am trying to say, so be grateful for this little energy boost.'

'What are you talking about?' Feeling the slight tingle once more, Archer soon felt the tingling spread throughout his entire body. The tingling soon gave way to an extraordinary power that seemed to rejuvenate his sore and worn muscles.

Koss was intrigued at how well Archer dodged his blow, it almost seemed like he knew it was coming. 'But that is impossible, he is no telepath.'

Feeling a lot better, Archer rounded on his opponent and delivered a series of punches and jabs. Koss was amazed by the speed at which Archer was throwing his punches and jabs. 'It is almost as fast as a normal Vulcan. Where did he get such speed?'

While Koss was preoccupied with fending off the numerous jabs, Archer swept low and took out his feet from under him. Quickly standing up from the fall, Koss charged at Archer and delivered his own succession of jabs, kicks, and throws.

By the time that Koss was through, Archer looked a bit worse for wear. 'He dodged all of my most precise strikes, while taking the brunt of my non-lethal blows. It seems I have underestimated this human. No matter he will fall against me.'

'You would think with all the knowledge we have given you, that you could at least score a hit on a egotistical Vulcan. Are you tired Archer?'

'Shut up, I know what I am doing. I am wearing him down, watching for his mistakes.'

'By the time he is worn out, you will be a rotting corpse. We must ask you to deliver the blow now, we will deal with the strength of it.'

'Who is this we?'

'Don't question us, just do it.'

Finding himself more than a little frustrated, Archer weaved in and out of the jabs and punches that Koss delivered. 'I need to find that one spot, that one place where he is undefended.' Peering into his opponent's defense like a surgeon, Archer soon pinpointed the most probable point of weakness. 'One last punch, I hope you guys are packing something behind this.'

Koss could only watch as Archer found a flaw in his stance, Archer exploited it and delivered a blow that sent Koss flying from the ring. 'How is this possible? He is human, is he not?' Koss would never find out, he was unconscious before he hit the ground.

'Well that worked, thanks guys.'

'No problem, but next time give us a little warning, it could save your life.'

"Captain are you okay?"

"I am fine T'pol. Just fine." That is before Archer flopped onto the ground into oblivion.

6 hours later

Awakening in a strange place is always something that disorients a person, but when you awaken and your whole body feels like it has been trampled upon it is about as close to hell as you can get. 'I knew all those candies before bed would do this, but did I stop? No, I just kept eating and eating. Wait that was last week, where am I?'

Soon two angels seemed to descent from heaven to speak with him, "Sir are you alright?"

"Angels have captains? And why are angels ears so pointed?"

"Sir? You are hallucinating, there are no angels."

"T'pol?"

"Yes sir. You are lying on the floor at my mother's home, do you remember what happened?"

"I believe I got beaten by a Vulcan male, about your height with the best pair of uppercuts a man could get."

"No sir, you defeated Koss. He is currently in a wing at the hospital, he is under a coma it seems."

"Really? How hard did I punch him?"

"Quite hard Captain, now if my daughter could move out of the way. There, now I can administer a balm for your wounds. I am amazed by your skill in battle captain, it is not simple to incapacitate a Vulcan."

"You must be mistaken, I don't believe I have the skill let alone the strength to knock out a grown Vulcan."

"I saw it with my own eyes captain, you defeated Koss. It is rather unfortunate that he will not regain consciousness for another 4 months but it was he who issued the challenge."

"Captain? Are you healthy enough to stand? There is something of importance that you will have to attend before we leave Vulcan."

"Were leaving already? I mean we just got here."

"That may be so, but it is essential we return to the ship. There seems to be a problem with the way the challenge was issued, and the council would like to speak with us before leaving."

"I don't understand, I don't even remember knocking Koss out. All I remember is the sudden stabs of pain that he caused with his pinpoint jabs and punches."

"The balm should alleviate most of the bruising, but I would advise that you rest for the time being Captain."

"Thank you T'les, I will take your advise. It seems all the confusion has exhausted my mind. T'pol? We will speak with the council after I have taken a small, tiny nap." When Archer had touched his head to the ground, he was already out of it.

"Do you think it is wise to postpone the council?"

"Yes, it would not be proper for him to go before the council as he is now."

"Thank you mother, for the support you have given me and the care you have shown for Captain Archer."

"I believed it was wrong for Koss to challenge the Captain, but I am amazed that he actually defeated Koss. What will you do now daughter?"

"I believe it is time for us to return back to the Enterprise. Will you be safe here? Koss will not return?"

"I don't believe he will, even Vulcan's know when to quit. I am thankful that you arrived in time, it would be most unpleasant to be loyal to Koss."

"Why did you not contact me sooner?"

"I believed it was a minor task, though the events have transpired against me and have caused it to expand exponentially."

"So it is done? There will be no more challenges? Commands?"

"Yes, it is most unsettling to owe my livelihood to a human. Although the Captain is hardly normal, how did he come by these magnificent skills in combat?"

"I do not know, he did not show a knowledge of martial arts when I first encountered him. He must practice in the solitude of his room, I would observe that it has been training well done."

"I agree, though his body seems to be exhausted it is not overly bruised. In fact, there are signs that he is healing quickly, much too quickly for a human."

"Intriguing, but we must speak with the council, how long should we let him rest?"

"I suggest 3-5 hours, it will give his body time to mend the broken tissue and bone."

5 hours later

"Captain? It is time to meet with the council Captain."

Groggily awakening from his dream of a nice sunny beach, Archer was in no mood for a meeting with a bunch of snobby Vulcans. "I am awake T'pol, although I seem to be missing much of my clothing. I would advise you to leave the house, so I can change in private."

"Understood sir."

When Archer had finished with the garments they had given him, 'Okay this material is nothing from Earth, but it feels nice on my skin. It also seems to have a cooling effect, maybe I won't be pouring in sweat when I meet the council.'

"Captain, it was a pleasure to meet you. Good luck with the council."

"Thank you T'les, it was a nice place to rest and recuperate. I also thank you for your gestures of good luck, I believe I will have need of it."

"Captain Archer, it is time to meet the council."

"Thank you again ma'am."

Archer and T'pol began the long arduous task of walking to the embassy. 'He will make a fine son-in-law. Hopefully T'pol does not push him away, it would be nice to see him again.'

It seemed to Archer a much cooler day then the one before, 'I must be getting used to walking on the sun, when I get back to the ship I will probably be freezing.'

The walk didn't seem so far when Archer wasn't sweating like a pig, 'That almost seemed bearable, but I still could use a glass of water.' Entering the familiar doors, Archer looked around and saw to his amusement that the puddle of sweat that he had dragged in seemed to be gone. 'Guess they couldn't stand the smell, heck even I can't stand it sometimes.'

Again entering from an adjacent room, Ambassador Soval first greeted T'pol then Archer. "It has come to the council's attention that you won a challenge Captain?"

"Yes, I believe so."

"Indeed, follow me."

Following the Vulcan, Archer was amazed how deep they had to travel before they came to a room that rivaled the size of his ship. And inside this room were about one thousand Vulcan elders, 'I am in so much trouble, I knew I shouldn't have acted heroic it always gets me into trouble.'

"Council, I introduce Captain Jonathan Archer of Earth."

Bowing his head, Archer addressed the council, "Hello, it is an honor to be here. I stand before the council because you have need of me."

"That is not the reason Captain, it is to discover the reason for your caliber of skill."

"Meaning what exactly?"

"We ask you to recount the events of the battle that took place against you and Koss."

"I believe the Captain recalls no memories of the battle Ambassador."

"I asked Captain Archer, Sub-Commander. If you would Captain."

"Well it is just like T'pol said, I can't recollect the fight at all."

"That most unfortunate, the council will convene and convey their decision 3 hours hence."

"I believe they are asking you to leave sir."

"I kind of got that impression T'pol, would you like to accompany me?"

"To where sir?"

"I believe that the embassy has a beautiful rose garden, does it not?"

"Yes, it does."

"I am trying to ask you to walk with me T'pol, can I?"

"There is no law against walking sir."

Shaking his head, Archer just walked out into the corridor and tried to get himself as lost as possible. 'Maybe if I get lost they will drop this whole thing, but knowing Vulcans they probably hid a microchip on my clothing or something.'

"Captain? Are you lost?"

"T'pol, I am trying to find the garden. Do you happen to know where it is?"

"Follow me sir."

Following the petite Vulcan, Archer could not help but let his eyes roam his second-in-commands form. 'I really need to get a girlfriend, I am starting to check out Vulcans.'

When they finally arrived at the garden, Archer looked all around, 'This is a lot better than the one on Earth, I admire the way they can take a simple garden and turn it into a sanctuary.'

"This is beautiful T'pol, who made this?"

"Over 500 years of care has enabled the garden to transform into what you see before you."

"I would never have guessed that this was on Vulcan, it is magnificent."

"Thank you sir. I must ask you once more, do you remember anything before the battle or during it?"

"I don't remember anything during the battle, all I get are little snippets that fly through my psyche much faster than I would like. Although I remember the challenge, he was fighting for you wasn't he?"

"Yes sir, he was initiating a Vulcan custom, the battle to the death. It only is used on the most dire of circumstances, I do not understand why he issued it sir."

"I believe he was trying to protect what he thought was his, males in all cultures are territorial I guess."

"I understand, but then why did you fight sir?"

"Well, as I said men are very territorial. I was just trying to showcase that, yeah something along those lines."

"I don't understand sir."

"What I meant to say was that I need you aboard the Enterprise, I would be lost without you."

Feeling a familiar warmth, T'pol looked at the Captain wish surprise, 'I believe that I have chosen correctly, he is the one I will honor.'

"Thank you Captain, I believe it is time for us to get back to the council chambers."

"Has it already been 3 hours? Well they say that time flies when you are having fun, thank you for accompanying me T'pol."

"It was my pleasure sir."

Walking back to the council chambers, Archer had a gut feeling their decision did not bode well for him. He didn't know how he knew, it could have been the near sinister sneer that Soval graced him with, or the withering stares he got when he entered the chambers, or it could have been because he hadn't eaten meat for the past couple of days.

"The council has reached a verdict, we find the Captain guilty of assault. He will remain on Vulcan for 4-6 years to repent for his aggression against the Vulcan known as Koss."

Not too surprised, Archer still would not let them keep him here. "I must object to the council's verdict, I have done nothing wrong."

"You have assaulted a Vulcan without provocation, that is a crime deemed violent and unjust."

"But he challenged me, I just accepted it."

"There is no proof to your statements, it will be stricken from the record."

"I must protest Ambassador, he committed no crime. As he stated Koss challenged him, I see no point to hold him for a crime that he did not commit."

"Sub-Commander, your relation to the victim contests all that you have to say in the matter. Your statements will also be stricken from the record."

"I don't think it is proper to condone this conviction without a proper witness, I conclude that we call forth my mother T'les to speak on Archer's behalf."

"The council has spoken, it's decree is law. Captain Jonathan Archer will be imprisoned for 4 years, eligible for parole in 2 years. Bailiff take him away."

'Archer? Why must you always get yourself in so much trouble? I mean you could have just left the planet, but you had to meet the council. We would have believed that you were smarter than that, they have a agenda behind your conviction. Now we must assume that you will be requiring our help once more, thus we will give you the strength for now. Use it wisely Captain.'

Not fully understanding what was going on in his own body, Archer nonetheless took it all in stride. 'I mean how many voices in my head actually give me the power to do things that humans would never imagine. I think it is time for us to get out of here.'

Moving with a speed that seemed monstrous in nature, Archer quickly defeated all 5 of the bailiff's. "T'pol? Is there a pod nearby?"

"Sir, I don't believe it is wise to manhandle the Vulcan Consulate."

"T'pol, we will discuss this on Enterprise. Do you trust me?"

"I don't understand how that holds any bearing to the situation at the moment."

Looking around Archer could see the Vulcan's getting ready to charge him, "Will you please trust me? I don't think this is all it seems, I plead with you."

T'pol watched as her superior officer begged and pleaded with her, "I do not fully understand all that is happening sir, but I do trust you."

Nodding his head, Archer once again asked if there was a vehicle nearby. "I believe our shuttle pod is due south approximately 1 mile from here."

"Sounds good, but first things first." Watching 20 Vulcan's surrounding them, Archer grabbed T'pol and plowed through 5 of them to reach the door. "Stop him by any means necessary, that is an order."

Quickly drawing their phase pistols, the Vulcan's gave chase to the monster they deemed Archer to be. Firing at the Captain, they believe it would be a simple task to capture the demon. Unfortunately for the Vulcans, Ambassador Soval had arrived in a vehicle that was right outside the door. Throwing both himself and his second-in-command into the vehicle, Archer quickly started up the engines and propelled them away from the maddening mob of aristocrats.

"Sir, how is it possible for you to move so quickly?"

"I do not know T'pol, but for now I suggest we focus on getting aboard our shuttle pod."

Taking a few quick turns, Archer steered the vehicle due south in search of his shuttle pod. With the vehicle it was a matter of seconds before he spotted the pod and advised T'pol to get ready to run once more.

Disembarking from Ambassador Soval's personal vehicle, Archer and T'pol boarded the Enterprise shuttle pod and made preparation for take-off.

"All preparations are complete sir."

"Okay, let's get out of here."

Using main thrusters Archer quickly steered his pod toward the planet's atmosphere. "I require an explanation for the behavior you have shown the past few days sir. It is inhuman, the speed at which you travel, the strength you showcase, the analytical precision of all actions you commit. What has happened sir?"

"I wish I could tell you T'pol, but all I know is that whatever has happened to me, happened for a reason. Whether that is good or bad, I have no clue."

"That does not convey the most confidence in your actions."

"I didn't exactly get the best welcome from your fellow citizens. I will have to talk with Admiral Forrest to alleviate these sudden charges of assault and battery against a number of Vulcan's."

"I do not understand, Ambassador Soval seemed vindictive in his conviction that you assaulted Koss. Regardless, it seems the Enterprise and her crew are fugitives from the law."

"Great, more things to worry about. So, T'pol will you be returning to Enterprise or trying to take me in to the Vulcan Consulate?"

"I have already expressed my loyalty to your cause Captain. Do you doubt my actions?"

"I was just kidding T'pol, at a time like this it couldn't hurt."

"I understand, but if my loyalty is ever in doubt, remember this."

Embracing the Captain, T'pol delivered a mind-numbing kiss, soon the two officers were straddled against one another.

Fortunately for Archer, he had already imputed all the coordinates needed to get back to the Enterprise in one piece.

Continuing their activities, Archer and T'pol soon were exploring how best to pleasure each other. Archer always was fascinated with the T'pol's ears, thus he nibbled on them to excite T'pol. "Are you ahhh…sure about ahh…this T'pol?"

"Jonathan, I thank you for your candor, I am sure."

"Ahh…only if your..ahhh…sure…"

Kissing T'pol with a passion he had read only in books, Archer wanted the taste of her to always be there. Tasting of cinnamon and apples, Archer gathered all the incense in her room had contributed to it. Archer started to work his way down, delivering feather-light kisses all the way down to the valley of her bosom. T'pol groaned as the man she had long dreamed of, was delivering wave upon wave of pleasure upon her psyche.

Author's notes: I know it is an awkward place to stop, but I need to get some ideas. So remember to read and review. Anyways, Peace, I'm out.