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Bumps in the Road - Ch 5

Author - Angel
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Bumps in the Road

By: Angela Koerkel

Rated: PG
Genre: Angsty
Disclaimers: The usual, I still don’t own Star Trek and I’m still not making any money off of this.
Synopsis: Trip and T’Pol, and that’s all I’m gonna say.
Spoilers: ‘Home’, with strong hints at the VCW (or at least my perception of it)

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

CHAPTER FIVE

Forcing himself to his feet, Archer hoisted the body of his fallen comrade over his shoulders and began to run. He’d made it to the relative obscurity of the shadows cast by the tall buildings of the Directorate before the guards appeared at the entrance. Pausing, he leaned back further into the darkness as he surveyed the armed men searching for them. They finally gave up and went back into the building. Archer heaved a sigh and continued on his way toward the caves, his burden heavier than he would have imagined.

XXXXXXXXXXXXX

T’Vay prepared a small meal of bread and fruit with tea for her son. Koss had come to sit with her in the main chamber a short time before and her motherly concern had convinced him to eat. She brought him the food on a small plate and sat across from him on the dirt floor. “What is troubling you, my son?”

“It is T’Pol,” he responded simply as he lifted his teacup.

Her head tilted in question. “I had understood that the doctor expected her to recover.”

“He does; it is not her health that causes me worry.”

“I understand,” T’Vay answered. “Have you spoken with Commander Tucker regarding the future?”

Koss raised an eyebrow at his mother’s perception. “No, I have not. I attempted to several times, however, he has not given me the opportunity to complete the conversation.”

“Perhaps now is the time,” she indicated the passageway where Trip had just appeared. He stood still, looking around the cavernous area. T’Vay rose and moved off.

Rising, Koss called out to Trip. “Commander Tucker? Would you join me in a meal?”

Squinting his eyes, the human surveyed the options. The Captain and T’Les were not back yet, and Phlox was still in with T’Pol. He accepted Koss’s offer silently as he walked toward him. After sitting down, he said, “Ya’ know, ya’ might want to put on some soft jazz in there,” he jerked his head toward the hallway, indicating T’Pol’s room.

“Why is that?” Koss asked.

“Well,” Trip answered slowly, “it’s T’Pol’s favorite music and she likes to listen to it when she’s recuperatin’. Says it relaxes her.”

Koss hung his head slightly. “I was not aware that T’Pol had a fondness for human music.”

Tucker nodded. “Yeah, well, only jazz.”

Looking up at his companion, Koss said, “Commander, perhaps we should talk.”

At that moment, Archer came lumbering into the main hall. “Where’s Phlox?” he shouted. “T’Les needs help!”

Trip was beside his Captain in an instant. Carefully, he helped lower T’Les to an area of bedding in the corner. “What happened, Cap’n?” he asked as Koss went off to find the doctor.

“She was hit by one of those energy weapons. I thought she would’ve come to by now, though.” Archer stood a little off to the side, his hands on his thighs as he doubled over slightly, catching his breath. “Where the hell’s Phlox?”

No sooner had the words left his mouth, than the Denobulan physician emerged from the tunnel. He made his way to his Captain and immediately began to examine T’Les. After a few moments, he stood and faced his commanding officer. His characteristic grin was gone as he reported, “I’m sorry, sir, but there’s nothing I can do. She won’t survive more than a few hours.”

“What? I thought you said those things would only stun a healthy Vulcan.” The Captain’s anger was obvious.

“Apparently, they have decided to use greater force. I’m afraid that the weapon that fired on T’Les used a far stronger setting. Her nervous system is collapsing.” This last was said with deep sorrow.

Tucker hung his head in sadness. Finally, he spoke up. “Cap’n? We should move her in by T’Pol. She’d want to be there.”

“I concur,” Koss stated from behind Trip. Together, the Vulcan and human gathered the edges of the blanket she lay on and hoisted her up on the makeshift gurney. They carried her gently down the corridor and lay her on the outcropping beside her daughter.

XXXXXXXXX

T’Pol stirred and her eyes began to flutter. Phlox was at her side with his medical scanner out when she came fully awake. While he ran the instrument over her prone form, she turned her head to the side and saw her mother. Immediately, she tried to sit up, but the doctor forced her back down. “What happened?” she demanded.

A look of sympathy covered the physician’s normally giddy features. “She was hit by a highly charged burst of energy. I’m sorry, Commander, but she won’t survive.”

T’Pol’s gaze shifted quickly from her mother to the doctor and then back again. At last, she closed her eyes again, and lay back down completely. The doctor completed his exam in silence, and then turned to go. Suddenly, T’Pol sat straight up again. “Doctor Phlox?”

He stopped mid-stride and faced her. “Yes, Commander?”

“How long have I been unconscious?” she asked.

He walked back to her side. “Nearly five days, from what T’Vay said.”

T’Pol lay back down, a look of contemplation taking over her face. “Thank you, doctor. I would like to be alone with my mother now.”

“Of course,” Phlox stated as he exited the room.

XXXXXXXXX

The younger Vulcan woman watched the quiet movement of her mother’s chest as it rose and fell with each breath. Reaching out, she laid one hand over T’Les’s, which rested across her abdomen. Gently intertwining their fingers, T’Pol allowed a small sigh to escape her lips. “Mother, what will I do without your guidance?” she whispered.

A rough voice unexpectantly responded, “I do not recall you heeding my advice very often, Daughter.”

“I was unaware that you were awake,” T’Pol said as she tightened her grip.

“Nevertheless, I am,” T’Les’s tone was weak and harsh with unspoken pain as her eyes opened.

As T’Pol shifted to an upright position to better face her parent, she said, “You should not speak, Mother. You have been injured and no doubt the exertion is detrimental.”

“A likely response when one does not approve of the words being spoken.” Strength was gathering behind her voice and now she almost sounded normal. “I shall speak until my last breath if that is my wish. It is not logical to lay in silence when speech is available and much needs to be said.”

Tilting her head in question, T’Pol asked, “What needs to be said, Mother?”

“Where is Commander Tucker?” The seemingly abrupt change of subject worried T’Pol momentarily; perhaps her mother was becoming delusional?

“I do not know. I only awoke myself a short time ago and have not seen anyone other than Dr. Phlox and you.” The disappointment she felt was well hidden.

T’Les turned to meet her daughter’s gaze. Behind her eyes glowed a power that T’Pol had rarely seen before. “Child,” her tone had softened to one of caring parent, “our task is done. We have been successful in broadcasting our message. Now, it is up to the people of our world how they choose to live. They may prefer to remain under the guiding arm of the Directorate and the High Command, or they may open their eyes to a more logical outcome and insist on a new government. Either way, we have accomplished our goal.”

“Indeed, there will be much work to be done to repair Vulcan society,” T’Pol replied.

Shaking her head, T’Les continued. “That is true, but that will not be your priority. You will be able to be free now.”

Their eyes locked and T’Pol knew that her mother spoke of something far more personal than political agendas. “Mother, I…”

“Do not be a fool, T’Pol.” T’Les interrupted. “Your marriage was necessary, for a time, but that time is past. You should set your own destiny and create your own life now.” She paused and gripped her daughter’s hand tightly. “Your father would have wished it.”

“It will not be easy.” T’Pol looked down at their joined hands and tried to remember if they had ever held hands before.

T’Les shook her head. “No, it will not be easy. There will be many obstacles. But, if I am correct, then Commander Tucker will be a steadfast partner. Together, you will overcome the difficulties.”

Doubt and fear clouded T’Pol’s features. Her heart wanted to sing at the prospect of a life with Trip, but it scared her as well. “I do not know if I can do it,” she confided.

“You can do anything you wish to do, Daughter.”

Meeting her mother’s gaze, she asked, “I thought you did not approve of a relationship between me and Commander Tucker?”

“I may have been mistaken,” T’Les allowed a slight smile to grace the corners of her lips. Suddenly, she began to cough, wiping away all semblance of happiness. “Go to him, Daughter,” she managed when she was able to catch her breath. “Go to him, and never allow anyone or anything to come between you again.” Her voice grew softer and her eyes glazed over slightly before closing.

The older woman’s grip became weaker and weaker until her fingers began to slip away from T’Pol’s. “Mother?” she prodded. “Mother?” she tried once more as she placed one hand to the matriarch’s shoulder and gave a gentle shake, but she knew that T’Les had gone.

XXXXXXXXXXX

When the doctor returned a short time later with the Captain in tow, they found T’Pol seated across the room from her mother’s body, which was now covered head to toe by the blanket that had previously been used by T’Pol.

Phlox approached T’Pol and bowed his head respectfully. “I grieve with thee,” he said.

Looking up, she met his eyes and offered a small nod.

Archer walked slowly towards her as Phlox went to conduct a brief examination of T’Les’s body. “I’m sorry, T’Pol. Your mother was a fascinating woman. I wish I’d known her longer.”

“Thank you, Captain.” She took in both men with a glance. “I am honored by your condolences.” Rising from her seat, she continued, “I should inform the others.” Before she made it to the natural opening that served as a doorway, Koss entered the room.

“T’Pol, it is agreeable to see that you have regained consciousness,” Koss began. As he looked about the interior of the small chamber, however, he saw T’Les. Like the doctor, he bowed his head slightly and addressed his wife. “I grieve with thee for your loss.”

She inclined her head in acknowledgement and clasped her hands tightly behind her back. “If you will excuse me, I wish to be alone for a time.”

“Of course,” Koss stepped aside to let her by.

She wandered slowly out toward the main gathering area. Although she had requested solitude, the truth was that she was seeking the company of someone in particular. She found him sitting by himself in a dark corner. He had his legs crossed and his eyes closed, a look of utter relaxation on his face. Her heart warmed instantly at the recognition of the most basic meditation posture.

T’Pol walked softly. She was conflicted. She did not wish to disturb him, but she wanted his attention. Her feet carried her to a position opposite him. Then, she sat in a way that mirrored him and there she stayed in complete silence, waiting for him to notice her presence.

It wasn’t long before Trip’s eyelids flickered open. With a soft smile and an even softer tone he said, “Hey there. How’re ya’ feelin’?”

“Better now,” she responded simply.

A bit of worry creeped into his features as he asked, “How’s yer mom?”

“She is no more,” T’Pol answered, a small hint of sorrow escaping that no one else would have noticed.

“Ah, T’Pol, I’m real sorry. She was a fine lady; I’m gonna miss her.”

She was touched by the sincere grief she heard in his voice. Her mother would’ve disapproved of such sadness being displayed, but T’Pol found it comforting. “Thank you. She was quite fond of you as well.”

Tucker’s head shot up quickly at that. He met T’Pol’s gaze and found a twinkle in her eyes, which he returned. “Yeah, well, she had good taste.” Looking back down, he went on, his voice soft again. “I think I should be getting’ back to Enterprise now. I’m glad yer gonna be okay.”

“Trip,” she looked down, embarrassed by the unintentional slip. “Commander, please stay a little longer. Perhaps all of us can take a shuttle back to the ship together.” He looked doubtful for a moment. “It would give us a chance to get reacquainted.”

He squinted at her and shook his head. “I don’t think that’s such a good idea.”

“What if I need assistance meditating this evening?” she asked, grasping at straws.

“Ya’ve got Koss fer that.” There was no bitterness, only a statement of fact.

Any Vulcan would have been proud to maintain such an unemotional visage as the engineer did as he walked toward the mouth of the caves. T’Pol turned toward the cold stone wall to allow her tears to fall unseen by the other Vulcans gathered there.

XXXXXXXXXXX

The next week brought an unbelievable bustle to the small band of Vulcan rebels. A new government had sprung up and granted pardons to anyone involved in the recent civil war. As a result, the group was packing up its supplies and preparing to leave the caves that had successfully hidden them. Archer had offered to remain and help them. He was in the process of loading a box with foodstuffs when T’Pol approached. “Captain,” she offered in greeting.

He paused in his work, a smile forming instantly. “T’Pol. How are you doing today?”

“Dr. Phlox says that I am recovering quite nicely from my most recent neurological trauma.” She shifted on her feet and for a moment, Archer thought she might be nervous about something. “I wanted to inform you that I will be returning to my duties on Enterprise within two days time, sir.”

“There’s no rush, Commander.” He paused briefly. “Enterprise will be in orbit for at least another week helping get the new officials settled in. Feel free to stay planet side. After all, there’s no telling how long it will be before you can get back to see your home again.”

She nodded her understanding. “With all due respect, Captain, Enterprise is my home. I am looking forward to being back on board.”

As she walked away, Archer couldn’t help but wonder how much she was looking forward to seeing a certain Chief Engineer again.

XXXXXXXXXX

“You what?” The barely masked anger of her voice caused her heart to pound. As her pulse throbbed loudly in her ears, she heard his answer.

“I believe you understood me the first time. I am not sure I want to dissolve our union.” Koss’s calm, detached tone made her fury escalate.

“We discussed this. Neither of us wanted to be joined. It was merely advantageous for the cause of the rebels. Now that political necessity is gone and I do not wish to remain bonded to you.” Her fists clenched tightly at her sides as her face turned a dark shade of green. “You said that you did not want to be bonded either; what has changed?”

He surveyed T’Pol while he pondered how best to phrase his answer. She was pacing through her mother’s courtyard, rage evident in her very posture. He found it exhilarating. “I have reevaluated my decision. Since I have gotten to know you better, I have come to realize that you are a worthy mate and I find you most uncommon among our people.”

She turned on him, pouncing like the caged animal she was. “Do you hear how you speak of me? Am I property to own or discard at your whim? You do not want a wife, you want a hired servant!” Her voice took on a sharp edge as she seethed at him. “I will not remain.”

“You have forgotten all of our ways, T’Pol. You are my property. That is as it has always been. As for what I want, it is true that I would prefer you to stay here. However, I will be content for the time being to let you continue your career.” He moved closer to her. Reaching out, he barely touched her cheek. “You bring a fire to my katra, and I do not desire to lose that flame.”

Suddenly, she realized what he was saying. She nearly laughed aloud. “What you find desirable about me is my lack of emotional control? It excites you to have a wife with so much passion. I am not the fire; I am merely the spark. The flame exists within you already. You must simply release it, if that is what you wish.” She stepped back, away from his caress.

“I can not do that. I must maintain my logic.”

“And I can not be your emotions for you, Koss. After a time, it would destroy us both.” She met his gaze and resolved to be honest. “My inability to control my emotions would be a heavy burden on you. As for me, my life lies elsewhere. To be forced into this role would extinguish that which you claim to find so irresistible.”

The truth of her words cleared the fog that had engulfed him. “You are correct, of course. While it may have seemed a logical conclusion, I see now its flaws. Although, perhaps a trip to Earth is in order; I admit to a certain curiosity regarding these humans.” Koss stood further back. T’Pol visibly calmed as he continued. “Commander Tucker is a very fortunate man to have the devotion of such an intelligent woman.”

“He has more than my devotion,” she answered. “He has my love.”

“I know,” Koss said softly. “We should go. The High Priest will be at the Temple now. This union can be severed by dusk.”

EPILOGUE

Commander T’Pol hid her anxiety well. As the docking bay surrounding the shuttlepod repressurized, she stood ramrod straight at the hatch. When the indicator flashed green, she depressed the opening mechanism and the doors slowly opened.

Coming to greet the shuttle, Commander Tucker was waiting impatiently for the airlock seal to clear. When the lights turned green, he squeezed through the entry before it had opened completely. The first site he saw when the hatchway finally separated was the figure of T’Pol.

“My marriage has been ended,” she said quietly as soon as she was able to walk off the shuttle.

That was the last thing he’d expected to hear. He was glad she came back to Enterprise, but he’d figured it was only temporary and that soon she’d have to leave to fulfill her marital obligations. He kept the hope out of his voice. “Really?”

“It was for the best.” For a moment they stood in silence, staring into each other’s eyes. His heart skipped a beat at the love he saw reflected there. It didn’t matter that the Captain and Phlox were also departing the shuttle and standing well within earshot. “Will you have me?” she asked, suddenly finding she didn’t mind the ancient tradition of belonging to another.

Trip could see the fear in her eyes. She was scared to death. Scared of their possible future together, scared of not having one. He knew because he was just as frightened. When he spoke, his voice was a trembling whisper. “I think maybe we should start over again.”

“I see,” disappointment only Tucker could see tore at his heart.

He moved closer to her. Their eyes met again and she closed the distance between them as well. Holding up her hand in the traditional greeting she said, “I am Commander T’Pol, of Vulcan.”

“Pleased ta meet ya’, ma’am. I’m Commander Charles Tucker, III.” he smiled his warmest smile and she felt warmed all over. They continued to move closer until they could reach out. Simultaneously, they raised their right hands with two fingers extended and allowed them to meet with a gentle pressure. “My friends call me, Trip.”

“I shall remember that,” she looked to him for silent permission. He brought her hand to his lips and planted a lingering kiss on it. She finally completed her sentence, “Trip.”

The End

Notes: Sorry to everyone who asked me not to kill T’Les! I like her too, but I hope the ending makes up for it a little!



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A whole mess of folks have made comments

*sniff... oh no T'Les* OK you're forgiven.

Good ending. Tho' for a moment there I thought Koss was going to put up fight. Perhaps we should see more of their starting over. :-) Thanks a bunch.

Wow. That was beautiful. I really enjoyed this story most out of the series. I was upset that you killed T'Les, but you're right -the ending does make up for it. So, where's the sequel?

aw I'm a sucker for happy endings! so YAY! great job!

if you want to continue the story that would be great...it would be interesting to see how the crew reacts. ;)

Great story!! I always loved a happy ending!
Hows about a happy sequel?

This was awesome. I always love a sequel, but this ended perfectly.

Way to go. That's how it should end (though I liked T'Les, too!).

Sequel! Sequel! Sequel!

It's so embarrassing, when you're at work, staring at your monitor and suddenly start to cry... sigh...
Sorry about T'Les... she and Trip had great chemistry... but at least you gave us a happy ending!
I had to watch Broken Bow again, for the greeting... they both have come a long way since then.
Please write a sequel with the newly "started over" couple!

Really, Aeryn10? Was I close? I only saw it once, four years ago!

I was sorry you killed off T'Les but you did it gracefully and I liked the fact that she finally told her daughter in effect that she could end the marriage of convenience to Koss and follow her heart. Loved Trip and T'Pol starting again. Ali D :~)

I have really enjoyed this story. PLease write a sequel.

THE END! I want to know what the rest of the crew might think or something I want to see this continued, you know maybe I don't know a WEDDING!

Just went back and read this wonderful story again. I enjoyed it just as much the second time around!

Thoroughly enjoyed the whole series, my only thought was that T'pol could have told Trip about the end of her marriage in a more romantic setting than the launch bay!