A/N What can I say? Thank you so much to noro and Mojo01 for your wonderful reviews. I hope you understand how much they mean to me. And thanks to all of you who have stayed with me.

These characters belong to Paramount.

Archer and T'Pol were surprised when instead of the anticipated visit by Soval and T'Pau, Soval contacted them and told them they needed to come to the capital. They were even more surprised when he told them it might be better if Trip didn't attend the meeting.

Not wanting to leave him alone, they decided to have him go back up to the Shenandoah and spend time with the crew and officers.

When they arrived and went to Soval's office, he signaled for them to sit down. "It appears that there are some complications we had not anticipated. I will let Minister T'Pau explain what is going on." He hesitated and then continued, "I wanted to talk to you first because of something different. I think it is time to let the Minister know about the Romulans."

Archer was surprised and answered, "Why now? And how about the other leaders?"

"I have thought for some time that T'Pau should know, but wanted you to tell her yourselves. Since you are here, I decided it would be a good time. As for the others, we could let T'Pau decide."

Archer thought for a moment, "I am not sure I am comfortable leaving the others in the dark, especially Earth. But I am willing to hear what T'Pau thinks after she hears it."

Soval nodded, "That seems reasonable."

The three of them were ushered into T'Pau's office. After they were seated, Soval spoke first, "Before we discuss what has arisen in reference to the wedding, we feel there is something we should tell you. It is information that was obtained during the war and has been kept secret by the three of us."

T'Pau raised her eyebrows, "And what is this information that you felt you needed to conceal?"

T'Pol spoke up, "In the course of the mission that resulted in the Praetor's death, I came face to face with him."

T'Pau could not hide her surprise, "You know what the Romulans look like and have kept that information secret?"

T'Pol continued, "Yes, Minister. But I believe you will understand why as I continue."

T'Pau nodded and sat back as T'Pol went on, "The Romulans are the descendants of those that left Vulcan 1800 years ago, those that flew under the Raptor's wings." Ignoring the look on T'Pau's face, she added, "There are some small changes in their appearance, but there is no doubt they would be recognized as related to Vulcans."

T'Pau, who had almost risen from her chair at what T'Pol had said, now sat back and seemed to ponder something. Leaning forward, "What you have said is not a complete surprise. Through the years, there have been stories, rumors that what you have said was true. But that is how they remained."

While the others absorbed that, she continued, "You said that you three have kept this secret. I assume that means that you have not told the other leaders."

Archer responded, "That's true. I do want to say I have never been completely okay with that. I agreed to do so only because I was afraid it could have an effect on the war. Frankly, now that we have told you, I find it more difficult to justify my actions."

T'Pau thought for some time. "I understand that this puts you in a difficult situation. If it means anything, I am loathe to keep secrets from the others. Especially as we are now considering a broader alliance." She paused, "But ironically, that goal also leads me to believe we should keep this to ourselves. Although relations have improved greatly, I still fear what the reaction would be if the others knew that the enemy we have just defeated at great cost were related to Vulcans. I believe it would open old wounds and tear at the trust that has been built up."

T'Pol interjected, "I believe I understand, but it does seem strange to try to build trust by not trusting them with this information."

T'Pau gave what resembled a smile, "You are right, T'Pol. But in this case I would rather error on the side of caution. I still feel this knowledge would be more detrimental to the alliance then them perhaps finding out later that we have hidden this from them. There is no good choice."

She then sat back, "But, in the end, it is not my decision. You and Admiral Archer must decide."

Archer looked at T'Pol. After a moment he sighed, "I agree we are damned if we do and damned if we don't."

Seeing the look on their faces, he smiled, "It is an old Earth saying, it means there is no good answer, only a choice of two bad ones."

He went on, "But since it will be the Vulcans that would have to face the possible enmity that could come from telling the others, I will honor your wishes. But I still reserve the right to change my mind."

T'Pau nodded. "That seems acceptable."

She then took a deep breath, "Now, why I had you two come today. When I contacted the Priest to meet with me to discuss the final preparations, he informed me that he had concerns about this wedding. He does not believe he can perform it."

Archer spoke up, "Must it be him?"

"As I understand it, it would be a problem for any priest."

Archer felt his angry grow. Before he could stop himself, he blurted out, "Is the problem that a human is involved?"

After he said it, he was a little embarrassed, he had thought he had put his resentments against Vulcans behind him. He was about to apologize when T'Pau interrupted, "Actually, the concern was that you two have been," she paused, "Intimate."

Archer looked shocked and T'Pol struggled to hide her surprise as well. That was the last thing they would have expected to hear. Finally, Archer got out, "Why would that concern him?"

It was T'Pol who answered, "Jonathan acquiesced with my wishes to be celibate until we were married. We only became intimate after we were married in an Earth ceremony."

As Soval looked on in amazement at what was occurring, T'Pau continued, "I see. It is possible that could change things."

She then sat back, "In any case, I have arranged for you to meet with him. It is scheduled for four o'clock. Here is the address."

She got up, "If there is nothing else."

Still a little shocked at what had happened, the others quickly said their goodbyes.

Studiously avoiding discussing what had just happened, Archer and T'Pol joined Soval for lunch.

T'Pol said she needed to meditate and they made their way up to the Shenandoah where Archer told a stunned Trip what had happened.

When Archer and T'Pol had emerged from their Shuttle when they first arrived on Vulcan, Solon stood in a small group of Vulcans watching from behind a fence as they were greeted by Soval and the others.

'So, that's the mighty Jonathan Archer,' Solon thought to himself. He knew he was probably only seeing what he wanted to, but he believed he could see a small resemblance to Vardon. They both projected the same aura of destiny. He had to admit also that Vardon was right about T'Pol, she was a beautiful woman.

He was also struck by T'Pau. He was aware of her story as well. It was hard to believe these individuals had fought the Empire to a standstill. Of course, every circumstance that could worked in their favor. But perhaps that was proof of their fate to forge the future.

Their upcoming wedding was of course a topic of conversation among many Vulcans. Solon discovered that a majority of those he talked to seemed to have no objections to the wedding and that for the most part, Archer and T'Pol were respected and admired.

He was enjoying his time on Vulcan, but was ready for his next journey. He had booked a spot on a Rigelian freighter headed for Earth. It would leave in two days. After that, he wasn't exactly sure what he planned on doing. As dangerous as it could be, he found himself wanting to return to the Empire, to Tabrina. Perhaps things had settled down. Maybe he could work something out if he promised to stay away from Romulus.

Oh well, he would face that when the time came.

After T'Pol had meditated, she, Archer, and Trip had sat down to decide how to approach the meeting with the Priest. In the end, they just agreed that there was really little they could prepare for. With Trip wishing them good luck, they took a shuttle down to the surface.

When they were ushered into the presence of the Priest, Archer was stunned to see it was the same individual that had been involved in the transfer of Surak's katra.

After they were all seated, Sartre spoke first, "It is good to see you again, Admiral. Much has happened since we last met. It is an honor to meet you as well, Commodore."

Seeing the inquisitive look on T'Pol's face, Archer explained, "Sartre is the one who now has the katra of Surak."

Sartre interrupted, "Actually, Surak has been returned to a container and is stored in a secure place. It was his wish. He felt his time had passed. It has become our task to interpret his teachings and find a path forward. His contribution had been to return the Kir'Shara. He did not want to become a curiosity."

Sartre lips curled slightly, "He also said that my mind was not nearly as interesting as yours."

"But that is not why we are here. I believe, Admiral, that…"

Archer broke in, "Sorry to interrupt, but could we dispense with the titles. I think it would be easier if we were just Archer and T'Pol."

"Very well. As I was saying, I believe that T'Pau told you of my concerns."

"She said that it bothered you that we have been intimate. I assume that is not normal if both participants are Vulcan."

"Except for rare occasions, the participants do not experience their first sexual experience until the onset of Pon Farr."

He continued, "Of course, in your case, with you being a human, you will not experience that."

Archer was confused, "What exactly causes your concern, is it a question of morality? After all, I have experienced intimacy with women before I fell in love with T'Pol."

"And I understand that T'Pol has indulged as well." Again his lip curled, "No, Archer, I do not judge you. My concern lies with the fact that you and T'Pol had sexual relations before you were married. For the couple to not refrain from relations shows a disrespect for long established traditions."

He looked at T'Pol, "I understand that is not unusual for humans, but am surprised, T'Pol, that you did not realize how important it would be to wait."

T'Pol met his eyes, "I did understand, Sartre, and we did wait until we were married in an Earth ceremony."

Sartre arched his eyebrows, "I see. I of course knew of your marriage, but not that you had been circumspect before then."

He sat back and pondered for a few moments, "I must admit, that does have the possibility of changing things. I must ask, have you been able to form any type of bond?"

He was surprised to see them both blush slightly, as T'Pol answered, "The only indication of a bond is when we are… joined, our minds are open to each other."

"I see. I am frankly surprised that even that bond is possible."

He turned to T'Pol, "In your previous marriage, did you bond?"

"No."

Sartre sat quietly, obviously thinking as Archer and T'Pol waited.

"In light of what you have told me today, I am willing to proceed with the next step."

Again he curled his lip, "With times changing and new Alliances and friendships being formed, I think I should be more open-minded and accept your marriage on Earth."

He continued, "With that out of the way, there are other matters to attend to." He turned to Archer, "Are you prepared for the ceremony? The Vulcan wedding traditions have been carried down through the centuries. I will expect for you to be able to do your part."

T'Pol spoke up, "I believe you will find him satisfactory." She looked proudly at Archer, "He has worked very diligently. It is of great importance to him that we be married on Vulcan."

Sartre turned to him, "I see. Archer, would you indulge me by reciting the second vow?"

Although he had studied hard, Archer had to smile to himself how nervous he felt. He couldn't help but feel like a student trying to pass a test. Taking a small breath, he recited the indicated passage.

Although he showed nothing, Sartre found himself impressed. He also had to smile to himself at the look that T'Pol was giving Archer. Sartre, like most Vulcans, was mystified by the concept of human love but knew there was already a bond between these two.

"That was most satisfactory, Archer. "

He continued, "If you still wish me do to so, I would be honored to perform the ceremony. I have to advise you however, that I am not confident of you being able to form a bond."

Archer smiled, "We understand." Looking at T'Pol, who nodded, "We would be the ones honored."

Sartre continued, "With the time we have used up today, I believe we should postpone it for two days. Will that be acceptable?"

"That will be fine."

Sartre rose, "I will inform Minister T'Pau and see you then."

After they left Sartre, Archer contacted Soval giving him the good news. He told them that since they were in the city they should get fitted for the wedding.

When T'Pol saw Archer in his Vulcan robes she was surprised at how good it made her feel. One part was how handsome he looked but it also reminded her how he supported her traditions. After getting assurances the clothes would be ready the next day, they contacted Trip and the three of them made their way back to the house.

Although it was much more difficult, Archer and T'Pol still respected Trip's presence and refrained from being intimate.

In the morning, they were surprised when Soval informed them that T'Pau had requested to see T'Pol. Trip and Archer were invited by Soval to take a tour of the city.

T'Pau found herself in the unusual circumstance of feeling nervous. She wondered what she had been thinking when she arranged this meeting with T'Pol. She thought of cancelling it or thinking up something to explain why she had asked to see her, but then decided that she did want to discuss it with T'Pol. She knew she wanted, needed to find answers to questions that had plagued her since the moment she met Archer and T'Pol. She needed to find closure for feelings she had long wanted to ignore.

When they were both seated, T'Pau took a deep breath and began, "The reason I asked you to see me is to discuss something that I would have never imagined myself doing so. If you find it uncomfortable or do not wish to discuss it with me, I will understand."

T'Pol fought not to raise her eyebrows, what was this all about?

T'Pau went on, "I would like to ask you some questions. I realize I have wanted to ask them since I first realized the attraction between you and Archer."

Taking another breath, "What is it like to be in love?"

T'Pol was stunned, she could never have imagined having this discussion with T'Pau. Wondering what was going on, she decided to just answer as best she could.

"It means that you want to be with him. That you couldn't imagine him not being there. You have a feeling of contentment. You know he will always be there for you and you for him. More than anything you trust him." She hesitated wondering if she should go on; then she smirked to herself, as Trip would say, 'In for a penny, in for a pound.'

"Then there is the physical. You hunger for his touch. When he looks at you, you feel warm and beautiful. When you are together, there is only the two of you. You bring so much pleasure to each other." She hesitated again, "He is a part of you and you of him. It is not like a Vulcan bond but in some ways much stronger."

She looked at T'Pau, "Why have you asked me this?"

T'Pau set stunned, she could not imagine feeling that way about someone, of trusting someone. She had been betrothed when young, but had it broken when she joined the Syrannites. Her future husband would have never understood. Since she had become Minister T'Pau, she had wondered if she should seek a mate, but the more she learned of married life, it did not seem something that would interest her.

Ignoring T'Pol's question, she continued, "Have you thought of having children?"

"We have not discussed it. I am not sure it is even possible, although Doctor Phlox has volunteered to look into it."

T'Pau thought for a time, "To answer your question. Before you and Archer came to the Forge, I had always had complete contempt for Humans. From what I knew of them, they were arrogant, emotional beings. A species that feasted on meat, who indulged in immoral practices."

"When Enterprise was launched, most of my ideas were confirmed. I shared with most Vulcans the fears that their actions would have serious consequences. Stories came back of their reckless actions, creating havoc. But then other stories came. The exposing of the blasphemy at P'Jem. A peace treaty with the Andorians. That a Vulcan was serving as its First Officer."

"When you and Archer came to the Forge, he at first confirmed my opinion of humans. He was arrogant, had leaped to conclusions, and impulsively acted on false information."

She looked at T'Pol, "But I also saw how you stood by his side. From the beginning, I sensed something between you. I wanted to dismiss you as someone who had lost their way, but you were T'Les's daughter."

"She had told me you had always struggled with emotions, but it was also apparent she was proud of you."

"When I discovered that Archer carried Surak's katra and especially when Surak chose him over me, I had to reconsider my position. I also saw how you cared about him, how you apparently had feelings for him."

"Then, after we found the Kir'Shara and we were separated from you, I found myself at ease in his presence; almost to the point of enjoying being with him. I was also struck by his passion to find you, to want you to be safe."

She looked at T'Pol, "Ever since then, any time I meet him, I find myself appreciating the time I am with him. There is also the fact that my respect and admiration for him have grown."

She looked down, "I have also been intrigued by you. Sometimes I find myself wondering…." She took a deep breath, "Wondering how it would be to have him feel about me as he does about you."

T'Pol could not hide her shock and surprise. What was she saying? She had all but admitted that she had feelings for Jonathan. She was not jealous; she knew that Jonathan loved her. She knew he had no idea T'Pau would feel this way.

After a long awkward silence, T'Pol finally said, "I am sure he would be flattered." She hesitated, "I know he has deep respect for you as well."

Inwardly T'Pau smiled, "Thank you for that. I hope I have not embarrassed both of us."

"No. I am just surprised that you have felt this way. You should remember that when we first met, we were thrown together in a life and death situation. In such situations, emotions are often elevated. You feel a closeness to those with you that you would not normally feel."

"I am sure you are right. In any case, thank you for listening." She hesitated again, "Is it possible you could not share this with Archer?"

"I will honor your wishes, although I am sure he would not think less of you."

As T'Pol rose to go, T'Pau said, "You are a lucky woman, T'Pol."

T'Pol gave what passed for her smile, "I like to think Jonathan is a lucky man."

For one of the few times in her life, T'Pau had to struggle not to smile.

Rising, she gave the Vulcan salute, "Live long and prosper."

T'Pol returned it and headed out the door.

When Archer, T'Pol, and Trip were in the shuttle heading back to the house, Archer asked, "What did T'Pau want to talk to you about?"

"We discussed some personal issues."

When she didn't continue, Archer got the message that she did not want to talk about it.

The next two days passed swiftly. Archer spent much of his time being sure he was ready. They spent some time at the market and paid their respects to Sovak. He surprised them a little by saying he was expecting a small crowd to gather in front of the house. After all, a wedding between two different species was extremely rare. Then of course there was the fact of who the participants were.

Archer was also surprised, although he probably should not have been, that there would be representatives of the Vulcan News Service there as well.

The Priest came out to the house with a crew that set up the garden for the wedding. They put up temporary walls to stop outsiders from seeing the ceremony, as well as set up the stage for the wedding.

The morning of the wedding, Archer and T'Pol were pleased to receive a call from Shran and Jhamel. Both of them expressed their regret they couldn't be there.

Finally, it was time. Trip was with Archer as he put on his robes. Both of them could not but wonder at the path that had brought them here. How could they ever have imagined what was about to happen. They looked back at that first moment T'Pol came on Enterprise.

As they were about to leave, Trip spoke up, "I just want you to know, Jon, how happy I am for both of you." He smiled, "The last time I was here, it was one of the saddest days of my life, today it is one of the happiest." He smirked, "What everyone says is true, you are the luckiest man alive."

"Oh, one more thing, you make a dashing Vulcan."

Archer smiled and then came over and gave him a huge hug. They stayed that way for moment and then Archer took a deep breath and they left the house.

In another room, T'Pol finished up putting on her robe as T'Pau looked on. T'Pau spoke up, "It is time. I need to tell you, that this is most satisfactory. I admit that I still occasionally find myself not totally convinced that it is the best choice for Vulcan to be allied with Humans, but I do believe this is right for you and Archer."

They made their way to the garden where the others waited. T'Pau and Trip took their places as Archer and T'Pol moved forward toward the Priest.

Even when Trip had sadly watched T'Pol marry Koss, he had been impressed by the trappings of the ceremony, an understanding of the traditions involved. Now it was also deeply moving. He was proud to see how well Jon was doing.

T'Pau found herself being drawn into what was happening. She was quite impressed at how Archer was faring. She realized he was not just saying the words, but that somehow he deeply understood what they meant. She had attended weddings before, but while this one was the same, it was also completely different. She realized that the traditions of the Vulcans were being merged with the human love between them.

As Archer said the words, he was stunned to realize they had acquired a deeper meeting, He found himself caught up in the ceremony. He was amazed to feel himself become a part of what was going on, amazed and gratified he could understand and participate in the traditions he was taking part in. He would have never imagined he could feel closer to T'Pol or deepen his love for her.

T'Pol had wondered how this would be different from her wedding with Koss. She was overcome with what was happening. She felt herself being transformed. Suddenly as Archer spoke, they were no longer just words, but part of what it meant to be Vulcan. She found herself and Jonathan reach a new depth of closeness. Somehow, she knew that no one had ever felt like this. The mysticism and spirituality of Vulcans combined with their love.

When it was over, it was dusk and the sun was setting. For Archer and T'Pol, there was nothing but each other. Hand in hand, they headed for the house. The other three watched them go. After they disappeared into the house, there was an awkward silence.

Finally, Trip smiled and said, "I'll need a ride back to the city."

The three of them headed for the shuttle. As they came out, the small crowd began to move away. The news reporter looked as though he was going to talk to them, but got the idea they would have nothing to say.

Inside the house, Archer and T'Pol managed to make it to the bedroom before quickly shedding their clothes. Their first joining was animalistic driven by incredible lust. As the night went on, it became more languid as they explored each other's bodies giving pleasure to each other. They were both insatiable, driven to higher and higher passion for almost the entire night. Then, when they were finally fully sated, they fell asleep in each other's arms.