A/N I want to thank Hert Fanfiction for the review. They mean a lot to me.
I have thought about this note for a few chapters but wasn't sure how to say it. I still don't but decided I need to try. First let me say, I will finish this story unless I become unable to do so. I have had it on my mind for a long time and love telling it. I also recognize that no one should feel obligated to review. They should be a result of being inspired by the story.
Having said that, I have decided to admit that I am a little disappointed that I do not receive more reviews. I want to emphasize how much I appreciate the reviews I do get. I don't want anyone to feel obligated. I just so much enjoy and respect your ideas and input.
Enough of that. I still don't own anything.
Solon emerged from the tunnel hidden in the Praetor's office, thanking the Elements he and Vardon had seen the need to have it installed. He had sent Tabrina to a site near the tunnel and soon arrived at its location.
He was admitted by Raff, who was stunned when Solon notified him what had happened. Learning that Tabrina was in one of the bedrooms, Solon was headed that way when he sensed a movement behind him. Fortunately, he had anticipated that Raff would be angered about what had happened to his fellow soldiers and at the same time, realize he could gain favor with the new Praetor by eliminating Solon. Against anyone else Raff would have succeeded but Solon was much too quick. He was able to dodge Raff's sword and practically cut him half with his.
When he entered the bedroom, he was shocked to see Tabrina emerging from the bathroom apparently having just finished a shower. She was drying her hair and was naked. Caught off guard, she started to try to cover herself then just shrugged and continued to dry her hair.
Solon turned his head and mumbling an apology, said he would meet her outside. As he left, he heard her laugh happily behind him.
In a few minutes she emerged, wearing a robe. Upon seeing Raff's body, she stifled a scream. She then looked inquisitively at Solon.
"He tried to kill me." He gestured for her to sit down. She sat down on the couch as he sat down next to her. He went on, "I have no doubt now that Vardon is dead. Ruddick launched a surprise attack and killed all of my men. I was able to escape out the tunnel."
Tabrina was obviously deeply shocked. After a few moments she managed to say, "I am sorry, Solon, I know how close you and Vandor were. I will miss him greatly myself."
"Thank you Tabrina, but there is no time for any grieving now. I am sure there is or soon will be a manhunt for us." He hesitated, "There is nothing for me but to disappear again, but you should be all right if you return to your home planet. I do not believe Ruddick will bother to follow you there. I am sure he will not consider you a threat to his reign."
"No, Solon. We are in this together. I am not leaving you."
Solon smiled sadly, "I am afraid that is not possible. I need to be alone. You would just be a burden to me. Besides, I will be deeply relieved to know you are safe."
"Then come with me."
"No, unlike you, I have too many enemies and they will not rest until I am dead. I would just endanger you."
She looked sadly at him. "There is nothing I can do to change your mind?"
"No, as much as I will miss you, this is what must be done." He hesitated and went on. "We need to contact Gregor. I am sure he has agreed not to fight Ruddick but I believe he would be willing to see to it that you get home safely."
Tabrina seemed deep in thought. Suddenly she rose up and with a smile on her face, "Very well, I will do as you ask, but you must do something for me."
She then proceeded to drop her robe, showing she was wearing nothing underneath. Still smiling, she pulled him to his feet and wrapped herself around him, pushing her body against his, and kissed him passionately on the mouth. "Make love to me, Solon."
Thoughts rushed through Solon's mind, reasons he should not do this; his celibacy, that there was no time for this, but somehow none of them seemed important. He realized he had wanted her for some time. He responded to her kiss and picking her up, carried her into the bedroom.
Later, when they had gotten dressed and were sitting side by side on the couch, her leaning against him, he contacted Gregor. As expected, Gregor agreed to see that Tabrina reached her home planet. He also told Solon he could do nothing for him and that he needed to get away from Tabrina immediately, that Ruddick was looking for them.
Tabrina watched in amazement as Solon opened a safe in the floor and took out a large amount of money in currencies of various planets including Earth and Vulcan. He explained he had arranged with traders to bring them to him. Then with a final passionate kiss, he was gone.
Less than an hour later, a shuttle from Gregor's flagship picked her up and took her to the ship.
Archer called for a meeting of the War Council and also arranged for him and T'Pol to meet with Soval.
When they were seated, Archer got straight to the point, "T'Pol and I wanted to meet with you alone because of what she discovered when she was on the Praetor's ship." He turned to T'Pol, "Tell him what you told me, Captain."
"When I met the Praetor, it was obvious they are related to Vulcans. Because of their obsession with secrecy, I believe they are those who fled Vulcan 1800 years ago. Those that flew beneath the Raptor's wing."
With Soval being Vulcan, Archer hadn't expected a huge reaction, but it was surprised that there was no indication from Soval at all.
Soval seemed to be in thought and then he said, "Through the years there have been isolated pieces of information that led many on Vulcan to suspect what you have determined. You can understand why it was deemed too inflammatory to reveal to others, especially as there was no real proof." He hesitated and went on, "I assume that because you are speaking to me instead of the Council that you share those concerns."
Archer was stunned and could see T'Pol was surprised as well. He finally managed to get out, "Was T'Pau aware of these suspicions? Is that why she was against the Vulcans joining the Alliance?"
"She was aware, but it had the opposite effect. I believe it was a factor in her finally agreeing to join. She knew that if it was true, they would be a formidable foe indeed."
There was a long pause. Finally, T'Pol broke the silence. "Although I share Admiral Archer's reservations about keeping this a secret and that it will be much worse if the others find we have hidden this from them, I do feel we can not risk having this information come to light now."
Soval added, "You are aware of my position. My opinion has not changed." He turned to look at Archer, "It is your decision, Admiral."
Meeting T'Pol's eyes, Archer answered, "While it is likely I am making a terrible decision, I agree it would be a bad time to shake the status quo. I agree to keep it to ourselves for now, but make no promise to not change my mind in the future."
He turned to Soval, "But that means no one is to know about this, not even T'Pau."
Soval nodded, "I will agree to that."
When the War Council met, T'Pol told her story as she had suggested to Archer. Although there was of course disappointment that she had not found out the truth, no one seemed to question her story.
Travis was called into the meeting and explained what had happened with Ronel. He also gave the vial of Ronel's blood to Shran. Shran accepted it and agreed that Travis had acted nobly and declared he was satisfied with what had been said. The rest of the War Council also commended Travis.
After Travis left, the Council discussed if there was any action they should take or recommend to the War Committee. In the end they agreed there was nothing to do but wait. They did agree however, that the current situation could not be maintained forever. It had become apparent that the cost of the war was beginning to cause hardships on the planets of the Alliance. Although it was having the most effect on Andoria and Tellar, even Vulcan and Earth were also feeling the effects.
After leaving Tabrina, Solon made several stops at other sites he had set up for this eventuality. He removed cash from each of them and changed his clothes to better fit in. He reluctantly had to give up his disruptor but was able to keep his sword. When it was dark, he found his way to a space port and easily avoiding the security systems, made his way to one of the ships.
Finding a way aboard, he confronted Captain Thorul in his quarters.
Thorul managed to stifle a shout of surprise and simply said, "I wondered if you would show up here. I assume you know everyone is looking for you. I know I owe you my life, but I don't know how I can help you."
Solon took a seat and gestured for Thorul to sit as well. "As you have pointed out, there is no safe place for me on Romulus. I don't think I could get away again with faking my death and I have no one that would dare hide me. I doubt I would be safe anywhere in the Empire. My only hope is to put the Empire behind me."
Thorul stared at him, "How do you expect me to help you? You must know they are searching every ship before it leaves Romulus. I would risk my life for you but I have no wish to give it away for nothing. They would also punish my crew as well."
"As I remember you have an area on the ship where you often smuggle items in and out of Romulus. I assume it has never been discovered. I checked out your ship before I left the Palace. You are scheduled to travel to one of the outposts outside the Empire proper."
Thorul shook his head, "You are right, that hideaway has never been discovered, but it is practically air tight. No one could survive for any length of time. And even if it were possible, you would not be safe on an outpost either."
"I have the ability to reduce my body functions almost to the point of death. I believe I could survive until the search is over. I agree I would not be safe on the outpost, but I know you pass Agara's Moon on the way. I would want to be dropped off there."
Agara's Moon was a notorious hangout for those existing on the edges of the law. It had no rules or restrictions. As long as you had money to spend, you were welcome. It was also a destination for traders from many planets who were not averse to earning a little extra money by dealing in contraband goods or aiding individuals able to pay.
Thorul looked at him in amazement, "What do you plan to accomplish there? They would just as soon slit your throat as look at you. Also, don't you think they would wonder what species you are? You are my friend but I can not allow you to reveal the Empire's greatest secret."
"I have no intention of doing so. I have often been told I could easily pass as a Vulcan. As for the danger, I believe I can protect myself. At least long enough to find a way out of there."
Seeing Thorul hesitate, "I know this is a big risk for you and I would expect to make it worth your while. I can pay you well for your help."
Thorul pondered what he should do. He was confident that the hiding place would not be discovered. If Solon died in it, so much the better for him. He could easily teleport Solon on to the moon. He did really owe him his life and there had not been opportunities for extra money lately.
"I can't believe I am saying this, but if you are willing to risk this crazy idea, I will go along."
Much to Thorul's surprise, everything went as planned and Solon found himself on Agara's Moon.
About two months after the encounter with the Praetor, Archer approached his quarters after what had been another uneventful day. Normally, if one is involved in a war, that would be considered a good thing but everyone was beginning to realize it could be some time if and when the Romulans made another move.
He had come to realize how much he missed Porthos, who would always brighten his mood. Perhaps he could see if T'Pol would want to get together to meditate or just talk. When he entered his quarters, he realized the lights were on. Then he saw her, an attractive woman probably in her late twenties, sitting on his bed smiling at him. She had long blond hair swirling around her head and was dressed in simple tunic and slacks although the fabric seemed different somehow.
He found himself rather lamely saying, "Who are you and what are you doing in my quarters?" He also moved his hand toward the communicator button.
"My name is Melissa and I have been waiting for you."
Debating whether to call security, "How did you get in?"
"Let's say I just dropped in."
"Teleported?"
"Not in the way you mean. Actually, I arrived from the future."
Feeling more irritated than surprised, "You're a Time Traveler. I thought we were done with that crap."
Melissa laughed, "In a way, you are. My appearance does not require any action on your part. I do have one more job to perform and I decided it would be of value to you to know about it." She looked around his quarters, "I also have to admit I could not resist paying you a visit. I can see how Daniels got so caught up in this."
Archer moved closer to her, "You knew Daniels?"
"Of course. Although I never worked directly with him, we were in some of the same classes and trained together."
Archer sat down in a chair across from her, "Well, what is it you needed so much to tell me?"
"All in good time… may I call you Jonathan?"
Shrugging internally, Archer nodded, "If you wish."
"Now that I am here, I thought we could spend some time together." Looking conspiringly at him, "If I remember my history right it was rumored you had a supply of Scotch Whiskey. If that is true, could I have a glass? After all, not everything is better in the future."
Archer, deciding what the Hell, rose and crossed to a cabinet taking out a bottle. Suddenly he had an idea and turned back to her, "If you plan to remain for some time, would you mind if I asked Captain T'Pol to join us? I'm sure I'll be discussing this with her and since she has never been comfortable with the concept of time travel…"
Melissa smiled broadly, "No, of course not. That is an excellent idea. I would enjoy meeting her."
Archer poured a small amount of whiskey into a glass, "Ice or water?"
"And dilute the taste? No, straight up will be fine."
Archer shrugged and handed her the glass. He turned and pushed a communicator button, "Archer to T'Pol."
"T'Pol here."
"Could you join me in my quarters? There is something I wish to discuss with you. And could you bring a scanner?"
"Of course, Admiral, do you wish me to come at once?"
"It is not extremely urgent, but yes, as soon as you can."
"I will change and be there in a few minutes."
"Thanks, Archer out."
Noticing that Melissa is looking at him disappointedly, he felt driven to ask, "Is there a problem?"
"You call this a drink? Since this could be the only chance I will have to indulge, you could at least fill the glass."
Archer took back the glass, "Are you sure? If you haven't drank this before…"
"You needn't worry about me. I assure you I can handle it. Besides, all agents were given shots to protect us against becoming intoxicated."
Smirking, Archer filled the glass, "Okay, but maybe I should check your ID."
Melissa took back the glass and smiled at him, "I am quite old enough to drink and whatever else I would wish to indulge in."
Archer was about to answer; when the door chimed, "Enter."
T'Pol entered the room and started to speak when she saw Melissa.
Archer spoke up, "Captain T'Pol, this is Melissa, she is apparently from the future. Have a seat, she has some information for us."
T'Pol sat down and scanned Melissa, "Indeed, she is Human but also Vulcan."
"It's an honor to meet you, T'Pol. If you don't mind, I will drop the rank. Jonathan has already agreed it will be easier to just use our first names." She took a sip from her glass and sighed appreciatively, "That almost makes all the traveling worthwhile."
Archer asks, "You said you are an agent?"
"Yes, counting Daniels, there were ten of us. The others have returned to our time. I was left to be sure everything appears to be cleaned up and proceeding normally."
Archer was surprised, "Ten? I had assumed from what Daniels said that it was of a much larger scope than that."
Melissa took another sip, "I am afraid that Daniels might have stretched the truth a little in talking to you. He also became way too involved and used methods that were not looked favorably upon. Of course, in his defense, I must admit he had by far the most daunting task."
T'Pol broke in, "As you may know, the Vulcan Science Directorate does not believe in Time Travel. Their problem is similar to mine. Although after what I have observed, it would be impossible not to believe my own eyes; the whole concept seems so out of control, so against the laws of Physics and other sciences. It is illogical that there should be something that would be against all normal laws of time and space."
"You are right, T'Pol, it would be illogical. Actually, that is not the case. There are specific laws governing it. They were elucidated by a scholar on a planet you have not encountered about three hundred years from now."
She took a larger drink. "The first law is that you can not change the present by going into the past."
Archer stared at her, "I thought that was what was behind all this. That these forces were attempting to change the present."
"That is true. Even though the law exists, it is easy to believe that it can be circumvented. But look at it this way. Whatever action they take by going back in time by definition exists in the past, therefore it has already affected the present. There are no alternate time lines. Each of us lives one life. I should say as an aside here that these rules apply to a single universe. Alternate universes are another thing altogether."
"There are a couple specific instances of this law. First, let's take the famous scenario where I go back into the past in order to prevent someone from being born. In truth, each life is unique. Once it is created it cannot be uncreated. Something will prevent you from succeeding. In religion it is often referred to as a soul, for Vulcans it is your Katra."
Second, there is only one life for each of us. If we are killed, we are dead. It cannot be changed. Again, there is only one timeline. This also means that if you live to say age eighty, I can not go back in time and kill you before you reach that age. One's lifetime cannot be extinguished."
This next point is often hard to understand, but is the heart of the entire law. Each moment in time exists only once. As I said there are no alternate time lines. We live each moment only once. Every moment is a culmination of all that has gone before; a product of everything that has happened in the past. That past includes changes to the past, even those made in the future."
"Perhaps an example one of my instructors used may help clarify this point."
"Assume you are at Point A in time and looking into a mirror. Two minutes later you travel twelve minutes back in time and break the mirror. When you return to Point A, what is the status of the mirror?"
"It is in a way a trick question, because based on the facts, the original scenario cannot exist. If the mirror was broken ten minutes before, it would be broken the first time you viewed it. No matter when the past is changed, even if centuries after the moment occurs, it is included in that moment's history."
T'Pol broke in, "Fascinating."
Melissa smiled, "Indeed." She went on, "I wish I could show you the math, but it would probably be difficult for even you to understand as it contains some mathematical concepts that have not yet been discovered."
T'Pol went on, "But if the past cannot be changed, why were agents sent to prevent changes?"
Melissa smiled, "Excellent point. The answer is that it would have been different if we had not gone. I know that seems a paradox but the point is that we each must live our lives, to make choices and take actions. We must do what we think must be done."
Melissa took another drink and continued, "The Second Law states that you cannot travel into the future."
Archer spoke up, "But I did. I went into the future with Daniels."
"He led you to believe you did. As I said before he took some liberties that he shouldn't have."
She went on, "How can you travel into the future when it does not yet exist?"
Still doubtful, Archer continued, "But you are from the future."
"I know it is difficult but it comes back to choices, to living our lives. I am traveling in my past, but for you that future is not yet written. Our choices have consequences. It may be true it will lead to my present, but who knows if forces have been set in motion that could change my future?"
"A similar concept exists in some religions that have an omnipotent God. He knows what choices we will make, but we have free will to make those choices."
"No, we each have one life to live. There are no free rides. We are responsible for that life and the choices we make."
T'Pol spoke up, "I believe I understand. But it seems things were different in the Expanse."
"You are right, T'Pol. But there were other forces in play. Interdimensional beings had created an area that twisted time as well as space. That is why Daniels' job was so difficult. It does help to explain why he did some of the things he did."
Archer spoke up, "There is something else. When we went back in time, Daniels was killed. But he was also there later to show me how the time lines were correcting themselves."
Melissa smiled ruefully, "That was another example of Daniels taking unnecessary actions. That was just a show for your benefit. The problem had long been contained. Daniels was severely reprimanded for his actions when he returned. But as I said, he had a very difficult situation and was excused from further punishment."
Archer again interrupted, "Daniels is alive? I saw him die. Didn't you say once we are dead, that is it?"
"The answer, Jonathan, is that you were not in the past, at least not the past of this Universe. When the Expanse collapsed, you were sent to an alternate universe. That was why the war was so different. The Daniels of that Universe did die. Your actions stopped a time war in that Universe. When that portal collapsed, you were returned to your own Universe."
"Oh, just to solve one more mystery for you, it was Daniels that appeared to you as the person from the future and told you about the Xindi."
She finished off her scotch and sat back. "It is either the scotch or the company but I have talked much too long and probably said too much. But it has really been an honor to spend time with you two."
"But now I need to do what I came for. Before I return to my own time, I need to correct one last act that Daniels perpetrated. He should never have given you that anti-cloaking device. When this war comes to an end, you must have all of the devices taken out of service and stored in the individual cargo bays. I will then destroy them all. I will also destroy the original instructions that came with them."
"Please do not try to stop me from doing so. After all, I have all the time in the world to get it done."
Archer had to ask, "How would we have had a chance in the war without them? If Daniels had not given them to us?"
Melissa smiled, "Some things are better left a mystery. I am telling you what I plan to do because the information may become valuable to you."
Archer continued, "I don't suppose you can tell us when and how the war will end?"
Melissa smiled sadly, "No, I'm sorry."
She continued, "Again, thanks for everything." She held up her hand in a Vulcan salute, "Live long and prosper." She pulled back her sleeve and touched a device on her wrist and disappeared.
Melissa stood in Archer's quarters. She had moved forward in time and Archer and T'Pol were on the Bridge. She was now ready to finally return to her own time. She checked the device to be sure it was set to the exact time and place that she originally started her travels.
She had already destroyed the anti-cloaking devices; Archer having followed her instructions.
Before leaving, she took one last look around. It was fascinating to be in the past and meet with Archer and T'Pol. It had been difficult to keep her emotions under control. As she ran her hand through her hair, her Vulcan ears were exposed. Checking for the last time that she had completed everything, she pushed the transfer button on her device. As she waited for the Gate to form, she found herself thinking that Archer was quite an attractive man. That's disgusting, she chided herself. But as the Gate opened and she stepped through, she decided it raised an interesting moral and philosophical question. Would it still be incest after 900 years? The Gate closed behind her.
