Chapter Three: Founding Friendship
The pull of the black hole was getting stronger, and they lost connection with the other ship.
"Captain," Malcolm said. "I've figured how to get them out of harms way, but we need to act fast."
"Proceed," Archer replied.
"If we hit them with the ship's beam at a forty-five degree angle, just grazing their hull, we'll be able to tilt them enough so they get their needed push away from the hole's force."
"You think that'll be wise?" Archer asked, concerned. "What if they think we're attacking them?"
"It's the only way," Reed answered matter-of-factly.
"Then do it."
Malcolm fired the beam and with a jolt the alien ship was able to move away from the pulling force of the black hole.
"We're being hailed, Captain," Hoshi said.
"Answer them."
The screen opened to reveal the same alien. "Fujmila," the alien said, smiling.
"I believe he is saying 'thank you,'" Hoshi said.
"I understood that," Archer replied with a grin.
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Enterprise and the alien ship, Nostruhmacka, docked together for two days so both ships could recuperate and trade supplies. Hoshi had been thankful for the opportunity, taking advantage of the time to learn the main parts of their language and translate it into the UT. At the same time, most of both crews got to acquaint themselves with each other.
"Captain Archer," said Grunehf, the alien whom they spoke with over the comm. and captain of the Nostruhmacka. "That was an impeccable thing you did, saving us from the black hole."
"Well, don't thank me, Captain Grunehf," Archer said humbly. "It was the collective efforts of my crew."
"Why, I must say, captain, you have an exceptional crew. Even your beautiful communications officer was able to translate most of our language into the UT. And thank you, once again, for hosting us."
"It is our pleasure to meet new species and cultures."
"Perhaps…you and your crew would like to visit our planet, Horienzi. It is the least we can do to repay your generosity."
"Thank you, Captain Grunehf. I know my crew would be delighted. We've been looking for a planet to explore for some time now. It'll give us a chance to breathe fresh air, so to speak."