A/N I want to thank noro and Guest for their wonderful reviews. I know I cannot express enough how much I enjoy all your reviews and what they mean to me. These characters still do not belong to me.
When Archer and T'Pol returned to the capital, they contacted Soval. After answering his questions about how V'Lar was doing, he told them T'Pau had set up a meeting for the next day with them and Minister Kuvack. Archer and T'Pol said they were going back to the ship but would see him then.
When they arrived back on the ship, they were informed because of what had happened with the Klingons, Starfleet was sending Columbia to act as an escort on their trips to the other planets. Both ships of course would be under Archer's command.
Archer thought to himself that seemed a little overcautious but did admit he would like seeing Erika again. She had not spent much time on Earth since the war.
After making love throughout the night, they had some discussions with Captain Tillman and told him to contact them when he heard from Columbia.
They took a shuttle to the surface and were escorted into a conference room where Soval, T'Pau and Minister Kuvack awaited them.
The others rose as they entered and waited until they were seated to return to their seats.
T'Pau spoke first, "Soval told us of your visit with V'Lar. It grieves me to hear she is apparently not improving, but it is most satisfactory that you were able to visit her."
T'Pol answered, "It was gratifying to us as well. She has made an impact on our lives."
T'Pau nodded, "She has made a great impact on Vulcan as well." She hesitated, "It is unfortunate we do not have her skills available now."
She then sat up, "But, enough of that, we have a great deal to discuss. Soval, the Minister, and I are in agreement that we must not waste this opportunity. Although we understand why President Samuels wished you to take this trip, we feel that we must aim much higher."
She went on, "It has become apparent that the economic conditions have all but returned to normal. I fear that if we do not make a great effort now, it may become too late. Every day the memory of the Alliance and what it portended are fading."
Archer and T'Pol were sitting with their feet touching so they could exchange thoughts. Both of them were surprised that T'Pau was speaking this way. It was apparent she had moved from her previous positions before the war.
Seeming to read their minds, she continued, "I am sure you are wondering at my change of heart. While I still would wish Vulcan could take a different course, it has become apparent to me that we cannot go back. Your encounter with the Klingons on your trip here emphasizes that the Galaxy is becoming smaller, that Vulcan cannot go it alone. Even more than that, although I wish it were different, I believe there needs to be a counter force to the Autocratic forces that endanger Galactic peace."
She then turned to Kuvack, "Minister Kuvack will present our proposal on what needs to be done."
With Archer and T'Pol still recovering from their astonishment at what T'Pau had been saying, they turned their attention to Kuvack.
Before he started though, Soval broke in, "Although I am sure you have assumed so, I want to go on record to say that I am in complete agreement with what Minister Kuvack is to present."
Getting an okay from T'Pau, Kuvack began, "We propose that the following document be presented to the governments of the Planets of Andoria, Earth, Tellar, and Vulcan for their review and approval."
"Item 1 – That each Signatory will agree to select two delegates, one Primary and one Secondary."
"Item II – That this selection be made within six months of the signing of this document."
"Item III – That within one year of the signing, said delegates will meet on a site to be determined to create a Charter for a Federation of Planets."
"Item IV – That this Charter will be so created as to provide for the expansion of said Federation."
"Item V – That said Charter will be created in no more than two years."
"Item VI – Upon completion, this Charter will be presented to the Signatories for approval."
Kuvack continued, "Although Vulcan fully supports this document, we will wait to seek approval from the Council until the other planets have been appraised of this document."
Archer and T'Pol were stunned. This was far beyond anything they had expected. Archer finally spoke, "I will of course have to clear this with Starfleet as it exceeds the parameters of my mission."
Soval looked at T'Pau. Getting a slight nod, he took a breath, "With all due respect, we do not believe that would be necessary or prudent." Ignoring the look on Archer's face, he continued, "In order for this to carry weight, all planets must be treated the same. Earth will be presented this proposal in the same way the others will." He looked at Archer, "We feel that you need to act as an Independent Diplomat without allegiance to any planet. Earth should be treated the same as the others."
Still stunned, Archer contemplated what he was saying. Although he could perhaps see their point, he did not see how it could work as a practical matter. After all, he was in command of a Starfleet Starship. As he pondered what to do, he received T'Pol's thoughts. After they exchanged ideas, they both agreed what needed to be done.
"I understand what you are saying and I agree with you. But, as a practical manner, I am an officer of Starfleet. I am in command of a Starfleet vessel." He paused, "Here's what I propose. I will contact President Samuels and Admiral Gardner and ask their permission to act as the independent diplomat that is needed. I will ask that both the George Washington and Columbia be put under my control; to take orders only from me."
T'Pau raised her eyebrows, "Do you believe they will agree to such terms?"
"I know that this Federation is of vital interest to the President. There may be a problem though with my taking complete command of the ships." He paused, "It could be possible they will want to keep control of Columbia. I think that would be acceptable."
T'Pau rose. "We need to discuss this. If you leave us for a time, we will let you know our decision."
Not sure how long it would take, Archer and T'Pol decided to take a walk. They walked around the Capital. Although he still did garner some looks, Archer was surprised to find that most Vulcans accepted his presence. They had been walking for a half hour staying within a few minutes of the meeting room when they were summoned back.
After they were seated, T'Pau spoke, "We have decided to accept your suggestion, with the understanding that if they disagree, Vulcan will be reluctant to make any further efforts. It will be apparent to us that Earth would only want a Federation on their terms. We also see no problem if Columbia is not under your control, but only if they just serve as an escort ship and take no part in any discussions."
Archer answered, "I will contact them as soon as I return to the George Washington. I would imagine they will need some time to decide. I will let you know the minute I know anything."
T'Pau nodded. She then added, "We have also changed our mind in reference to Ambassador Soval accompanying you. If you are to be neutral, it would be better if we had no representation."
Archer nodded and rising, followed T'Pol out the door.
When they got back to the ship, they went to the Ready Room and discussed what had just occurred. Both wondered how the President and Admiral Gardner would react to the news. They agreed on one thing, the Vulcans would not accept some kind of token effort. But they wondered what exactly could be done.
Finally, they decided they had covered all they could and contacted Samuels and Gardner.
After they had explained the situation, they could see the others were as stunned as they were. After asking some questions to be sure they felt they completely understood, Samuels and Gardner told them they would confer and contact them when they had reached a decision.
When it appeared the answer was not coming quickly, they told the Captain they were going to their quarters and to let them know immediately if they heard anything.
It wasn't until after supper and wondering if they would not hear until the next day, they were contacted by Beta Crew that Admiral Gardner was ready for them.
Arriving in the Ready Room they sat down and saw that both Gardner and Samuel were on the screen.
Samuels spoke first, "Well, Admiral, I have to admit we were shocked by what the Vulcans were proposing. I never thought we would see the time when T'Pau would take such a position."
"Once we recovered, we realized as I am sure you do that while this is a tremendous opportunity, it also means we cannot afford to screw it up. This might be our only real chance. If this fails, it would be extremely difficult to start again."
"Because of that, both Matt and I agree that extraordinary measures are needed."
Gardner broke in, "Admiral Jonathan Archer, as of 1900 hours on this date, you are no longer a member of Starfleet. You are no longer an Admiral."
Before Archer and T'Pol could absorb that, he went on, "As of that same moment, Commodore T'Pol will replace you as commanding officer of the George Washington."
President Samuels took over, "Jonathan Archer, as of 2000 hours on this date, I am appointing you as an Ambassador at Large. In that capacity, you will be charged with the task of taking all steps necessary to establish a Charter for the creation of a Federation of Planets, starting with the concepts proposed by the Vulcans."
"In order to carry out this mandate, you will be given the following powers."
"While Commodore T'Pol will have operating control of the George Washington, you will have total command of the ship."
He paused as if he wasn't sure he should continue. Then taking a breath, he said, "When it comes to this mission, you have almost unlimited latitude. You will not be subject to orders of Starfleet Command. Only I will have any authority over you. But if you come to believe that I am attempting, in any way, to affect your ability to finish the mission, you are empowered to disobey me as well."
Archer and T'Pol could not believe what they were hearing. Samuels went on, "You will soon receive official confirmation of these orders. They will make clear to the crew and officers of the George Washington that your orders supersede those of Starfleet and that if they should ever be in conflict, your orders take precedence."
Seeing the looks on his face, Samuels smiled. "Jon, I know these are unprecedented steps we are taking but both Matt and I agree it is a necessary risk we must take. Quite frankly, it is only because of our deep respect and trust of you and T'Pol that gives us the courage to do so."
"We know that not only will you not abuse the power, but that you are the unique individual to carry it out. After you finish with the other planets you will come to Earth and treat us the same as the others."
"So many times we have entrusted the safety of Earth to you and you have not failed us. In a way, this is even more important. You need to know we are all behind you and will support you in any way we can."
He smiled ruefully, "That is, unless you want to tell us what we can do with this crazy idea."
Archer and T'Pol were finally able to recover. Taking her hand, drawing from her strength and calm, Archer answered, "I must admit I am stunned. I want to say I am amazed at your dedication to this cause. A dedication I share with you." He smiled sadly, "Believe me if I could avoid this, I would, but it does seem circumstances have again chosen me. I can only say I will do all that lies within my power to make this a success."
Samuels smiled, "That is all we can ask of anyone." He turned to Gardner, "Do you have anything to add, Matt?"
"Just that Columbia will still serve as an escort but although she will be instructed to obey you as well, she will still have her first allegiance to Starfleet. She will be informed as to the total situation."
He hesitated, "Good luck, both of you."
Archer smiled, "Thank you, Sir, we will need it."
When the officers and crews of George Washington and Columbia received their order, they were of course shocked and not a little confused.
Archer and T'Pol exited from the Ready Room and had Braxton open a channel to the crew of the George Washington. Told it was ready, he was about to speak when he was told Captain Hernandez was hailing him. He told Braxton to tell her he would call her back.
"I am sure all of you are struggling with the information we have just received." He smiled ruefully, "Believe me, both the Commodore and myself found ourselves in the same boat."
"However, if we set aside for the moment the extraordinary order that you might be called upon to disobey a Starfleet order, something that I cannot foresee happening, things will not greatly change. The major change will be that Commodore T'Pol will take over Operational Command and will sit in the Captain's chair. I will work out of the Ready Room."
"For now, I cannot see where any of your duties will be changed. The Chain of Command remains the same. The logistics of our mission remains the same."
He paused, "While it is true much will remain the same, the importance of our mission has grown. You are now a part of a mission that could alter the Galaxy for the foreseeable future. To determine if Earth can be part of a Federation of Planets, a force for freedom."
"I know you are capable of doing your part in fulfilling that goal."
He turned to T'Pol, "Do you have anything to add, Commodore?"
"Just that I share the Ambassador's faith in this crew. From an operational point of view, Ambassador Archer will still give orders directly to the officers and crew. It would be illogical to have him pass such orders through me."
"I also wish to announce that Lieutenant Margaret Sanders will replace me as Science Officer."
"One more item, it will be quite satisfactory to continue to address the Ambassador as Sir."
She turned back to Archer, "That is all I have, Sir."
Archer went on, "Okay, let's all get back to work."
"Ensign, contact Captain Hernandez. Transfer it to the Ready Room. When he answered, "Aye, Sir," Archer continued, "Commodore, will you join me?"
"Of course, Sir. Captain Tillman, you have the Com."
When they arrived in the Ready Room, he opened the channel to Erika.
"What the Hell is going on, Jon? Have Gardner and Samuels lost their minds?"
Archer laughed, "Why don't you beam over and join T'Pol and I in my Ready Room? I think I have a bottle of Scotch hidden somewhere."
He smiled again when T'Pol arched her eyebrows. Erika smiled, "All right, I'll be right over."
Archer turned to T'Pol, "I hope that is all right with you."
"I have no objections, you just caught me a little unaware." She hesitated for some time and then went on, "I have to admit that there was a time when things were awkward between the Captain and myself. I found I was somewhat troubled that you and she had once been romantically involved."
Archer was stunned, but then he couldn't resist a smile, "You were jealous."
"Yes, Jonathan, I was jealous. Does that please you?"
"Only because it shows how much you do feel for me. You know you have nothing to worry about?"
"Of course, I just wanted you to know I am not sure how she feels about our marriage."
When Erika entered the room, T'Pol was gratified to see that the awkwardness between them was gone.
Ericka strode over and gave Archer a hug and T'Pol was again pleased she did not feel any jealously at all. Erika turned to T'Pol and smiled, "I know you would not welcome a hug, but I just want you to know how happy I am for you and Jon. I always knew you too were meant for each other, I just wondered if you would ever realize it yourselves."
T'Pol surprised herself by answering, "Thank you, Captain, I appreciate you saying that. Perhaps we could shake hands?"
Erika smiled broadly, "I would like that."
After they exchanged handshakes, they all sat down.
"Okay, Jon. Let's cut to the chase. What's behind all this?"
While it had been decided not to discuss how the Vulcans were involved in this, Archer decided Erika deserved to know. After all, they would be in this together.
He told her about the meeting with T'Pau and how Samuels and Gardner felt that whatever it took, they could not miss this opportunity.
After he finished, Erika shook her head, "I guess it makes sense, but I really wonder how this is all going to work out."
She smirked, "I think I could use a shot of that Scotch right now."
T'Pol then shocked them both when she said, "I believe I will join you."
Smiling broadly, Archer brought over a glass and poured them all a drink. After two of them took a large gulp and the other a tentative sip, Erika continued, "You know, Jon, with you not having to obey Starfleet orders, there could be a time when I might be ordered to stop you."
She took another drink, "If that should happen, I would have to do so."
Archer took another drink, "If it should ever come to that, I would probably deserve it."
While T'Pol finished her first, Archer and Erika had one more.
Then Erika rose, "So when does this all happen?"
"I have to go down and inform the Vulcans what had been decided. Assuming this will satisfy them, we should be ready to leave for Andoria within the week."
"We'll be ready." She got serious, "It really will be great to work with you again. Now that I understand what is at stake, you can count on me to do all I can to help us succeed."
"Thank you, Erika, and I know I speak for T'Pol and myself that we would not want anyone else at our side."
The next morning Archer and T'Pol met with Soval, Kuvack, and T'Pau once more.
The Vulcans could not hide their amazement at the steps Earth had taken. They realized how deeply committed Samuels was to the formation of the Federation. They accepted Archer's role and said they would begin to do their part to get the approval of the Council. When that was accomplished they would then sign the document and fulfill their duties under it.
As Archer and T'Pol were getting ready to leave, he turned to her, "I think we should try to tell V'Lar goodbye before we leave."
Before T'Pol could answer, T'Pau interrupted, "I was just about to let you know." She hesitated, "We received word that Ambassador V'Lar passed away early this morning."
Archer lowered his head and reached out to take T'Pol's hand as they shared their grief.
T'Pau noticed and was shocked at herself as she experienced a moment of jealousy and sadness. She quickly pushed that back to the recesses of her mind.
Archer released T'Pol's hand and asked, "What happens now?"
"The ceremony will be held in two days here at the Capital. I will be presiding. You are of course both invited to attend."
Archer again looked at T'Pol who nodded, "We would be honored. Do you think it would be appropriate if we would say a few words?"
T'Pau gave what passed for her smile, "I have no doubt that V'Lar would want that."
Two days later, Archer stood before a small group of people who had gathered for the final ceremony. Earlier V'Lar's body had laid in the Grand Room of Council headquarters where mourners were allowed to pass by.
Ignoring the looks of disapproval of her husband and son, who had been disdainfully refused by T'Pau when they had tried to block his appearance,
"I will let others speak of her accomplishments, which were extraordinary. I will let others speak of her abilities, which were numerous. I wish to talk about the time I was with her and how she affected my life."
"When Ambassador V'Lar came aboard Enterprise, there was still a tension between Earth and Vulcans and specifically between me and Vulcans. But by the time she left, we had made great strides in building bonds of trust and mutual respect. I would go so far that I considered her my friend."
"It is not too much to say that she started me on a path that has brought us to where we are today."
"She also made T'Pol and I realize how close we had become. She spoke of our friendship and how that would bode well for the future of our peoples".
"Although we only met on two occasions, I will dearly miss her."
As he sat down, T'Pol stood up, "When I told then Captain Archer of my deep admiration of the Ambassador, he implied she was a hero of mine."
"I told him Vulcans do not have heroes, but I was wrong. V'Lar had a great impact on my life, before and after I served on Enterprise. I just hope she knew how much she meant to me."
She raised her hand and making the Vulcan sign, again Humanized it, "Peace be with you."
Two days later, having said their goodbyes, the George Washington, accompanied by Columbia, went to Warp enroute to Andoria.
