When the Enterprises Collide

TRIP/T’POLERS MU FANFIC CHALLENGE

When the Enterprises Collide

By Favors

Rating: PG-13
Genre: Action-Adventure
DISCLAIMER: Star Trek: Enterprise is owned by Paramount, not me. No infringement intended, no profit made.
Summary: Enterprise gets caught in an alternative dimension / mirror universe

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Enterprise #1

Enterprise was headed back to Earth, to Jupiter Station for re-fitting of the new transporters. Alien technology they had discovered 6 months ago had finally been adapted to Earth technology to vastly improve the range and capacity of the device while reducing the power required. T’Pol leaned back in her chair and regarded the bridge crew thoughtfully.

Hoshi Sato had emerged from a shy, space frightened girl, into a confidant young woman. Her accomplishments on the Xindi sphere had garnered her several commendations and she was heavily credited for averting the destruction of Earth by her decryption efforts. When they had returned home, rather than relax with family, she entered the Cryptology School at Starfleet. She had amazed her professors with her keen intellect and swift ability to decrypt anything placed in front of her. When Starfleet couldn’t decipher a code, they sent it to her. A common term was to “Sato it” when all others failed. Hoshi was humming to herself, a sure sign that she had a date tonight with Corporal Chang of the MACOs.

Travis Mayweather had changed little since first coming aboard. He wasn’t as eager perhaps as before, more cautious now, and wiser. He yearned for more responsibilities, but still enjoyed being the pilot the most. He and Amanda Cole had been seeing one another lately.

Malcolm Reed sat stoically at his post. The changes since the Xindi conflict ended still weighed heavily on him. He had fallen into a deep depression when Captain Archer had been lost on the Xindi sphere. He felt personally responsible for the loss. His friendship with Lt. Naran had been beneficial. She had pulled him from the depths of despair, perhaps one day it would blossom into more.

At last her glance took in Lt. Naran. At first there had been difficulties between her and the new science officer, her former position. Their issues stemmed mainly from centuries of conflict between their people. Lt. Naran had, however, overcome her general mistrust of Vulcans. T’Pol had to do the same with her too. Lt. Naran had the distinction of being the first Andorian in Starfleet.

T’Pol liked to keep track of the relationships aboard. Captain Archer had disbanded the no-fraternization rule when she and Trip had become involved. She had continued the tradition; after all it wouldn’t be proper to discourage the crew from engaging in personal relationships, while openly conducting her own. Happy people were more productive and efficient. Yes, a happy crew was a more productive crew. Anything that increased efficiency and productivity was a plus in her book.

She sipped her tea slowly, feeling the warmth engulfing her. She had not slept well last night, despite Trip’s best efforts. She was experiencing what he called ‘morning sickness’, although hers occurred in the late evening. Despite the discomfort, Captain T’Pol Tucker wouldn’t change her situation for anything. She gently rubbed her swollen abdomen, knowing the first known human/Vulcan baby was growing in her womb.

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On Enterprise

“So how are you and T’Pol getting along?” Archer asked languorously of Trip.

They were watching the latest water polo match in Archer’s quarters. Porthos was by Trip’s feet, getting his head scratched. Trip swirled the fine whiskey in his glass.

“As good as can be expected, I suppose.” He answered with a broad smile. “Livin’ with a Vulcan isn’t always easy. But, I wouldn’t change it for the world.”

“Well the way you two were fighting this afternoon, I thought there was going to be bloodshed.”

“Oh, that was just friendly banterin’, Jon. You know how we are.” Trip laughed. He loved nothing more than arguing with his Vulcan mate. It stimulated his mind as much as his body.

“Yes, too much alike.”

“I think she’d take offense at that.”

I do take offense ashayam.
I love you too, t’hai’la.
I am getting most bored sitting here alone. Nude. Waiting.
I’ll be right there darlin’.

“Cap’n as much fun as it is gulpin’ down some fine hooch with you and watchin’ sports, my woman’s waitin’. And you never keep a lady waitin’.”

“Especially not T’Pol. I have to see her on the bridge tomorrow. Night Trip.”

“Night Jon.”

The captain chuckled as he watched his best friend leave. Even though he’d been aware of their physical attraction to one another, he was still surprised at the depth of the emotional attachment between Trip and T’Pol. They had certainly survived a rocky road. Any human couple would have a strong relationship to have withstood their obstacles. Being different species and having vastly different cultures made many challenges for them, but their love for one another rose above it all. Archer mused that someday their love would go down in history, Anthony and Cleopatra, Romeo and Juliet, Boggie and Bacall, Trip and T’Pol.

Trip and T’Pol had finally admitted and declared their love for one another quite publicly. Archer remembered that fateful day and was surprised it had only been 45 days ago. They had been arguing about who knows what on the bridge behind him in the Situation Room.

“You’re the most mule-headed, frustratin’ person I have ever had the misfortune to know!” Trip snapped at T’Pol.

“Mule-headed?” She repeated.

“Yeah, you know stubborn, intractable, obstinate, inflexible, pigheaded!” He defined the term for her.

“What about obnoxious?” T’Pol retorted, her eyes narrowing dangerously.

“Enough you two!” Archer bellowed to them. They hadn’t even heard him speak.

“Oh, now that’s somethin’ else darlin’!” Trip took a step closer to T’Pol, his eyes blazing in anger and passion.

“Yes, I was referring to you!” T’Pol stepped closer to Trip, her eyes blazing as well.

“Oh, were you now!” Trip shouted into her face.

“Yes!” T’Pol shouted back at equal volume.

Trip was standing just scant inches from T’Pol. Everyone on the bridge could feel the tension between the two. It was palpable. Their eyes were locked with one another and it seemed like there was a silent battle of wills ensuing between them. Archer disliked the scene being played out on the bridge, but couldn’t look away and neither could the rest of the bridge crew. Their chests were heaving and they stared intently into each other’s eyes.

“Enough of this bullshit!” Trip grabbed T’Pol by her upper arms and pulled her into a fierce embrace and an intense and passionate kiss. Archer was about to ‘rescue’ T’Pol, when all witnessed her very passionate response. Archer was stunned to see T’Pol wrap her arms possessively around Trip and pull him in closer for a deeper and more lingering kiss.

“Well, I guess they’ve worked out their problems.” Malcolm remarked dryly.

“Do they even remember they’re on the bridge?” Hoshi asked innocently after several moments.

“It doesn’t look like it.” Archer had loudly cleared his throat, attempting to get their attention. It didn’t work. “Trip? T’Pol?” Nothing. “Well, they’ll need air soon enough.” It was apparent to Archer that it wasn’t their first kiss as he watched their hands roam over each other. They apparently knew exactly what each other liked. Trip’s hand had slid down T’Pol’s back to her buttocks and pulled her tight against him. Archer doubted he could have gotten a piece of paper between the two.

They finally broke apart after what seemed like hours, but in fact had only been a few minutes.

“Why did you do that?” T’Pol asked Trip, her voice soft and husky. She had pulled away only slightly, their bodies still glued together.

“Because I love you. I am completely, hopelessly, head-over heels in love with you. And I‘ve been too chicken shit to tell you, you mule-headed Vulcan.”

“Your affections are returned you obnoxious human.”

Trip had smiled broadly and captured her lips again in another kiss. They embraced each other even more tightly than before.

Archer had discovered later that T’Pol had begun to realize they were bonded when Trip was on the Columbia and later confirmed when the Orion slave girls had no affect on him. Her opportunity to inform Trip had been interrupted by the ship being attacked by Klingons. Their argument on the bridge had occurred the following day. They had spent the next 4 days alone in T’Pol’s quarters solidifying their bond.

Both had been hearing the other’s thoughts and feeling the other’s emotions, but hadn’t understood the reason why. Trip had thought he was going insane while T’Pol had come to realize that they had somehow created the Vulcan marriage bond between them. She had never felt any connection with Koss, and now understood why.

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On Enterprise #1

“I’m picking up an usual energy pattern, Captain.” Science Officer Naran’s voice broke into the silence.

“Explain?” the Captain demanded.

“We’re headed straight for it, the energy readings are enormous.” Lt. Naran spoke with some alarm.

“Lt. Naran, calm down. Lt. Mayweather, reverse course. Tucker to Tucker, we need more power to thrusters; we’re headed towards an energy wave.”

The ship started to buck while panels sparked around them.

“I’m tryin’ sweetie, but we’re getting pounded down here, power relays are blowin’ all over the ship, and we just lost warp drive! What the hells goin’ on?”

“Captain, I can’t get out of its path!” the helmsman exclaimed.

“All hands, brace for impact.” Captain T’Pol Tucker ordered over the comm.

The energy wave engulfed Enterprise. All aboard were flung around like rag dolls as the ship shook violently and spun about. Within seconds it was over.

“Engineering, report.”

“Warp drive is offline, but I expect to have it back within the hour, and 26 power relays need replacin’.”

“What’s our position, Lt. Mayweather?”

“We’re about 4 light-years closer to Earth, ma’am.”

“Resume course for Jupiter Station. Commander Sato, contact Starfleet Command.”

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CPC Criminal Detention Facility

Archer sat in his cell, waiting, waiting for a chance to get free.

That two-timing, back-stabbing officious Brit will get his once I get out. I got rid of Trip, Mr. Goody-two shoes, next on my list is that sniveling little cretin.

Archer could feel something was different about today, he felt his chance was coming. He’d been stashing away as much money as he could from his gambling with the other inmates. He’d been able to provide it to Hoshi Sato, who could turn $1 into $1,000 more quickly than a Ferengi could recite the Laws of Acquisition.

She was currently stationed with the British prig on Pluto station, the place where the CPC stationed all the least desirable officers. She had run her own gambling operation, and had insulted a superior officer on purpose just so she could be stationed out there. Their plan was coming closer to fruition; he could feel it in his bones. Trip had been offended by his relationship with Hoshi and their illicit side operations. Said he shouldn’t sleep with his underlings. Archer also didn’t feel that the CPC deserved 15% of their hard earned money.

Soon, soon, now, he could feel it in his bones. If only he could get a communication to Hoshi. Her knife was poised to take Reed out at any time.

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Back to Enterprise #1

“Captain, this isn’t our universe.” Lt. Naran spoke slowly, confused.

“There’s a space station at Pluto, and it’s not Starfleet.”

“Captain, there IS no Starfleet. I don’t understand.” Commander Sato was beginning to become concerned.

“Reverse course to our previous position and hold us there Lt. Mayweather. Lt. Naran, has anyone detected our presence?”

“I don’t believe so ma’am.”

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CPC – Pluto Station

“What a bloody boring day! That bitch Cole left me because I don’t make enough money. She must be related to Cochrane with that greedy streak in her.” Malcolm Reed complained to Hoshi Sato.

“Like I care who care who you sleep with? There are a dozen Coles ready to take her place that are less greedy you know.” Hoshi hated this prig for all he was worth. If she and Archer couldn’t make a bundle, she wouldn’t be here in this dump with Reed now. She trusted her former Captain and lover. Soon, they would have enough money to break him out and get on with their operations.

“You interested?” Malcolm leered at her.

“NO! I’d rather bed a Ferengi!” Hoshi replied with disgust.

“I can arrange that you know. They like to….sample…other species.”

No wonder she left you, you pig! Soon, soon, you’ll bleed on my blade! I can sense it.

Hoshi’s disgusted look left little to her opinion on that.

Too bad, I could have made a fortune on her.

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On Enterprise # 1

“Captain, there’ a ship emerging from sub-space. It’s…Enterprise.” Lt. Naran informed Captain T’Pol.

“Enterprise?” Captain T’Pol asked, confused.

“It’s very similar to ours, only it has a slightly different signature.”

“Commander Sato, contact them immediately. Maybe they were pulled here by the same energy wave.”

“They’re responding Captain.”

“On screen.”

T’Pol Tucker looked into the face of her husband, shock clearly evident on both of their faces.

“Captain Tucker, this is Captain Tucker of the starship Enterprise.” Captain T’Pol Tucker spoke quietly.

“Same here. You mind explain’ this?”

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Enterprise – Captain’s Quarters

The door chimed to Archer’s quarters just after 1930 hours.

“Enter.”

Archer glanced up to see Trip standing in the doorway with a bottle in hand.

“Cap’n. Got a few minutes?”

“Of course Trip, come on in. What do you have there?” Archer smiled broadly as he pulled two shot glasses from a cabinet.

“Well, as you know we’ve been sharin’ quarters for awhile, and we really appreciate you ignorin’ the no-fraternization rule for us. I think we’ve both been more relaxed and content than ever. I wanted to ask for leave for both T’Pol and me, so she can meet my folks, when we get to Earth.” Trip poured the amber liquid into the glasses and handed one to the Captain.

Archer’s smile grew. Trip had only brought one other girlfriend home, Natalie. “So, are there wedding bells in your future?”

“I hope so. You know the complete and utter irony of it all Cap’n? Under ancient Vulcan tradition, she was married to me when we bonded. In essence, she was never married to Koss. All that time I spent in agony, stewing, hatin’ that guy, lamenting about my lost love. I just wish we’d known it then. Anyway, I still wanna marry her under human laws though, and I’d be honored if you performed the ceremony.”

“Of course I will Trip. Have you set a date yet?”

“I’ll let you know after she meets my folks, then we can set a date.”

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Ready Room On Enterprise #2

“Our Archer died when he tried to negotiate with the Xindi. He had finally convinced Degra that we weren’t goin’ to annihilate the Xindi. He was in their conference chamber when Dolim killed him.” Trip # 2 looked down, and shook his head, trying to wipe the memory away. “He killed sweet little Hoshi too.”

Trip #2 glanced over at Hoshi #1 with fondness. “At least your alive somewhere. Well, that appalled the Primates, Aquatics, and the Arboreals. Even the Insectoids thought it was uncalled for. The Insectiod leader took Dolim’s head off, right then and there. It wasn’t long after, that things fell apart for the Xindi. They found out about the Sphere-builders duplicity.”

T’Pol and Trip #1 described their own Xindi tale to him.

“It’s so strange sittin’ here and lookin’ at myself.” Trip #1 commented.

“Trip.” Trip #2’s comm. buzzed.

“Yeah, babe?” Trip #2 answered.

“There’s another Enterprise emerging from sub-space. And, please use my name when we are on duty, will you?” T’Pol #2 informed her captain and husband.

“Sure thing, darlin’.” Trip #2 answered.

They could all clearly hear T’Pol #2 exasperated sigh.

“I guess we’ve got some folks to meet.”

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Observation Lounge – Enterprise #3

T’Pol Tucker #1 looked on the assembled crews. They had been in this universe for 4 hours. 90 minutes after they arrived, a second Enterprise had emerged. This one also captained by a Tucker, but by Trip, not her. 90 minutes after the 2nd Enterprise arrived; another Enterprise joining the first 2.

Charles Tucker #2 commanded Enterprise #2, T’Pol #2 was still First Officer and Lt. Hess had been promoted and now ran Engineering on Enterprise #2. The Vulcans and Andorians had helped greatly to end the Xindi conflict in their universe. Trip and T’Pol #2 had married in a Vulcan ceremony just 3 months prior.

Enterprise #3 had never encountered the Xindi and had a very similar background to their experiences except for the last year. Enterprise #3 had been able to continue to explore space and contact new worlds. The crew was much the same as Enterprise #1’s prior to the conflict with the Xindi. T’Pol #1 discovered that her counterpart, along with Trip #3, were also involved. They were not married yet, but had acknowledged their feelings for one another.

Both crews from Enterprise #1 and #2 were pleased to see Captain Archer again. Even though he wasn’t theirs, it still warmed their hearts to know he survived somewhere.

T’Pol #1 began to notice that Doctor Phlox was the only crewmember that all 3 ships shared retaining the same position. She also noted that she and Trip seemed destined to become a couple.

T’Pol #1’s communicator beeped.

“Go ahead.”

“Captain, another Enterprise is emerging.” Lt. Naran informed her.

“You know what to do, Tucker out.”

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Bridge On Enterprise #4

“Big Dude, there’s, like, an energy wave coming.” Tuppy spoke quietly.

“Seriously? Wow, like, let’s ride it man.” Captain Johnny ordered.

“Cool, all we need to do is, like sit here then.” Tuppy said before taking another puff.

The lights blinked out and then emergency power came on, the bridge staff reacted slowly to the apparent crisis. None seemed particularly disturbed by the ship’s shaking.

“Big Dude, hey, it’s Chip, man. We’re gettin’ tossed around, this baby’s buckin’ more than me and Tuppy when we get down and really goin’, man. What’s happen’, man?”

“Chip, dude, it’s like we were surfing pure energy man. Pilot dude, like where are we man?”

“Big dude, we’re like, well, I don’t know man. But killer wave, man.” Mayweather responded dreamily.

“Big dude, we’re getting, like hailed.” Hoshi Sato spoke quietly as she took a long drag from the joint she and Tuppy were sharing.

Captain Johnny thought Hoshi looked particularly pretty with her purple hair glowing in the red lights.

“Ok, man. Like put it on the imager, man. Whoa!” Captain Johnny exclaimed when he looked up at T’Pol on his viewscreen.

“Reed-meister, dude, like what was in that last batch, man? Doesn’t she look just like Tuppy, only, all, maternal?”

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Enterprise #7 - 9 hours after Enterprise #1 arrived

“Look, I don’t care what that thing was, just get the warp drive back online, you turd, or I’ll have your head!” The Captain yelled into the comm at the Chief Engineer.

“Captain, we’re being hailed.”

“By who?” he barked at the Communications Officer.

“Enterprise.”

“Are you tryin’ to be funny Sato?”

“Do I look like it? You want them put through or not?” Hoshi Sato asked Captain Chuck Tucker acidly.

“Sure, what the hell. Today’s been totally fu…” Captain Tucker shut his face as he stared at his girlfriend. Only it wasn’t his girlfriend. It was someone who looked just like her. His girlfriend sat 5 meters away at the science station.

“Captain Tucker, this is Captain Tucker of the Starship Enterprise.”

“Starship? What the hell’s a Starship good for? This is Battle Cruiser Enterprise. Who the hell are you?”

“I am Captain T’Pol Tucker. We’ve been pulled into this parallel universe by the same energy wave as you. This universe knows nothing of Starfleet and Enterprise. You are the 7th Enterprise to be pulled here. I believe we…”

“Are you gonna babble all day? Good thing you don’t yap this much, at least you put your mouth to good use.” Chuck Tucker chuckled maliciously and leered at his woman.

T’Pol #1 regarded Charles Tucker #7 thoughtfully. Physically, he looked similar to her Trip. However this one’s hair was long and pulled into a ponytail and he was more muscular. He wore black leather pants and a black vest with no shirt. She could see a tattoo, of a Vulcan symbol on his abdomen, but couldn’t make it out. Her counterpart came into view. T’Pol #7 had short hair that stuck out in spikes all over her head. She also wore black leather. Her small top barely covered her breasts and she wore low-slung pants that revealed her hipbones and abdomen. T’Pol #1 could clearly see the Vulcan symbol tattooed on her abdomen. It said “Chuck’s Property”.

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90 minutes later On the Bridge of Enterprise # 8

“Sir. Reading a highly strange energy signature, Sir.” The XO spoke in her clipped tone.

“XO, report.” Captain Archer ordered.

“Sir, we are currently on a collision course with an anomaly, sir.” XO T’Pol stated calmly from her science station.

“Pilot, reverse course.” Captain Jonathon Archer ordered.

“Aye, sir.” Lt. Mayweather responded, nonplused.

Power fluctuated on the bridge as the pilot tried to reverse course and remove Enterprise from the energy wave’s path. “Sir, helm isn’t responding, we’re being pulled in.”

“Engineering.”

“Sir.” The Chief Engineer responded.

“Commander Tucker, divert all available power to thrusters.”

“Sir, I am unable to sir. Power relays had been damaged all over the ship.”

“Sir, impact in 4 seconds, sir.” T’Pol of Vulcan, XO of Enterprise informed the captain.

“All hands, brace for impact.” Captain Jonathon Archer ordered.

The energy wave engulfed Enterprise. The stoic crew grabbed onto railings and consoles to minimize their turbulence.

“Engineering to Bridge.”

“Go ahead, Engineering.”

“Sir, warp drive is offline. It will take approximately 30 minute to restore warp drive, 1.2 hours to repair or replace the damaged power relays, sir.”

“Proceed with repairs, chief.”

“Sir, yes, sir.” Chief Engineer Tucker responded.

“Captain, we are being hailed, sir.”

“On screen Communications.”

Captain Jonathon Archer stared, confused, into the face of his XO, T’Pol of Vulcan, only it wasn’t his XO.

“I am Captain Jonathon Archer of the Imperial Reich’s Battleship Enterprise. Who are you?”

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Back on Enterprise #7

“What do you want anyway?” Chuck Tucker asked T’Pol #1

“I want to get home, much like you, I’m sure. We all need to work together. So please, try not to kill anyone.” T’Pol Tucker rested her hands on her swollen belly. The baby was kicking quite a bit today. She was tired and getting frustrated with this man. He was cruel, but highly intelligent.

Captain Chuck Tucker’s eyes narrowed dangerously at T’Pol #1. Trip Tucker #1 stood close behind his wife, a phaser in hand.

“Thought you said no killin’?” Chuck Tucker gestured to Trip Tucker’s phaser.

“They do have a stun setting you know.” T’Pol #1 replied.

“Not mine.” Chuck Tucker replied with a sneer as he stood and walked away. T’Pol #1 could clearly see the Vulcan symbol tattooed on Chuck Tucker’s abdomen. It said, not surprisingly, “T’Pol’s Property”.

T’Pol #1 had taken charge of the fleet of Enterprises emerging into this universe and began assigning numbers to each ship to keep track. She had been successful in preventing the other emerging Enterprises from contacting people in this universe. They had realized soon that they weren’t in the correct dimension.

While the Enterprises encountered so far did not have the exact same crew, T’Pol #1 had adopted a numbering system for the entire crew. The 7 Enterprises had briefly compared crew manifests and histories. T’Pol #1 had convinced the various Captains, excluding Archer #8, that they needed to work together to get back to their respective homes. The crew of Enterprise #8 was proving to be difficult to convince. The crew from Enterprise #8 thought they were superior to all the rest, better than anyone else. T’Pol #1, however was sure he would eventually come around, if she could manage to convince this evil Trip, she certainly could handle a militant Archer.

She viewed this mission as a First Contact with each one, and had visited each ship. Now all were gathered in the mess hall of Enterprise #7. The various T’Pols, Charles Tuckers, Jonathan Archers, Malcolm Reeds, Hoshi Satos, Travis Mayweathers, and 7 Doctor Phloxs gathered together to discuss strategy.

Enterprises #2,3,5,and 6 were more similar to her Enterprise in crew, beliefs, and temperament than #4 and #7. On Enterprise # 6, her counterpart had left after the initial 2 week stint. Enterprises #2 and 5 had also encountered the Xindi, they too had lost Archer as captain.

Enterprise #4 was, as her Trip dubbed it, the Doobie Enterprise. The Xindi could have attacked their ship directly and she didn’t think they’d notice. How they had managed to get into space was beyond her logic. They were, of course, extremely friendly and tried to turn the meeting into a party. Trip #1 had said they reminded him of pictures he’d seen of flower children form the 1960’s on Earth.

Enterprise #7 was the most contradictory to her world. They were vicious killers who seemed to take delight in the deaths they caused. They were very dangerous. This Caption Tucker had admittedly killed Captain Archer. Perhaps their society was more like the Kilngons than Earth. His action hadn’t seemed to bother anyone.

“It seems the only constant among our crews is Doctor Phlox. The Enterprises have been entering this dimension at a rate of 1 every 90 minutes. My crew is tracking that energy wave. I believe we will need to return to that wave and enter it in the same order in which we arrived and at the same time frequencies. However, we will need to run simulations to confirm.”

“Yeah, sure, whatever, anything to get us outta this pussy universe. Real glad you don’t gab like that Pol.” Chuck Tucker pulled his T’Pol close to his body and openly tongued her in front of the others. T’Pol # 7 didn’t mind at all, and started to massage Chuck Tucker’s genitals while Chuck slipped his hand into the front of her pants.

“Mmmm…why don’t we go and take care of business while these goody two-shoes do the work.” T’Pol #7 purred at Tucker #7.

T’Pol # 1 decided that this T’Pol of Vulcan’s heritage never embraced logic.

T’Pol #1: They are disgusting.
Trip #1: I agree, although that outfit’s kinda kickin’. Maybe after the baby’s bor…
T’Pol #1: No.
Trip #1: Didn’t think so.

T’Pol #1’s communicator signaled her to an incoming communications.

“Go ahead.”

“Captain, another Enterprise has just emerged.”

“Hail them immediately. Stop them before they go any further.”

“I hope they’re more fun than you assholes.” Tucker # 7 spoke to the crowd.

“Dude, like, the more the merrier, man. Here, have another drag dude. Loosen you up.” Archer # 4 handed over large joint to Tucker #7.

“Well maybe you guys aren’t so bad, right Pol?” Tucker #7 said while lapping his girlfriend’s ear, his hand was still down the front of her pants. He accepted the joint and took a long drag.

“You know I killed my Captain Archer. He was stupid enough to make a move on my woman. Gave him a nice big smile, didn’t I babe?”

“Most definitely, although I think my knife went deeper.” T’Pol and Tucker # 7 looked on with at the various Archers, except, perhaps, Archer # 4, with open hatred.

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In the Mess Hall of Enterprise #10

“Captain Sato, as you know, this universe is getting full of Enterprises. A new one keeps emerging every 90 minutes and each one is closer to the solar system. All of us were heading towards Earth when were caught in the energy wave. I find it interesting that many of us share a somewhat similar history, however, Enterprise #4, #7, and #8 are distinctly different.”

“I must admit, I was stunned to see you again, along with Commander Tucker. It’s been difficult without you, both of you, and Captain Archer.” Captain Sato said quietly.

“Aw, isn’t this just the sweetest thing! Kissy, kissy! I thought you brainy people were workin’ on a plan?” Chuck Tucker #7 said acidly to Hoshi Sato #10 and T’Pol #1. Trip Tucker #1 wasn’t far behind his wife.

T’Pol #7 clung to Chuck #7 closely, and offered her assistance, much to the shock of Chuck #7. “Look, maybe if I help these goody, goody, types; we can get the hell out of here and back to our universe where it’s normal. This mutual admiration society crap is making me want to puke. I know, T’Pol#1, you’re thinking I don’t have a brain in my head, well I do. We’re the same you know.”

“No, we are most definitely NOT the same.” T’Pol #1 answered hotly.

“Hon, I don’t think there’s any use in arguin’ with yourself. And I mean that literally. She is the science office despite how…vicious they are she still has the smarts.” Trip #1 convinced his wife. “Look, we all just need to work together on the solution, OK?”

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On the Bridge of Enterprise # 14

Minutes after the energy wave hit Enterprise, they were hailed.

“Captain, we’re being hailed, by Enterprise.” Hoshi Sato stated, confused.

“Enterprise? Is that some sort of joke, Hoshi?” the Captain asked, not amused. He was still trying wipe the blood off his forehead. The other bridge crew members suffered similar minor injuries.

“No, sir, it’s Enterprise.” Hoshi insisted.

“On screen, Hoshi.” Captain Jonathon Archer sounded perplexed.

Jonathon Archer’s mouth hung open as he stared at, T’Pol. A long-haired T’Pol, his own T’Pol briefly looked surprised, but quickly covered it up.

“I am Captain Jonathon Archer of the Starship Enterprise. Who are you?”

“I am Captain T’Pol Tucker of the Starship Enterprise. We need to confer on a problem we are all sharing. You are the 14th Enterprise to emerge in this dimension. May we come aboard?”

“Of course.”

“Tucker? She’s married to that irrational human?” T’Pol asked no one. Shock was clearly apparent on her face.

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On Enterprise

The next morning the captain sat relaxed in his command chair, sipping his hot coffee, thinking about seeing Erika Hernandez again. He wasn’t sure if she’d be around or not. He knew that her ship was being fit with the same weapons and shuttle pods. He hoped he could see her.

Archer’s thoughts turned to Malcolm. They were heading for Earth to be outfitted with a new weapon and some of the newer shuttlecrafts. He was like a kid in the candy store, anxious to see what new toys Starfleet had for them. Many other crewmen were anticipating a brief shore leave as well. The captain had decided to allow as many possible to go home and see family and friends.

“I’m picking up an usual energy signature, Captain.” T’Pol’s voice broke into his thoughts.

“What is it?”

“I don’t know.”

That caught his attention, T’Pol didn’t know. She started to busily operate her controls. She pulled up the view scope to perform additional analysis. “We are currently on a collision course with it Captain. The energy is massive.” T’Pol spoke with some alarm.

“Travis, reverse course. Let’s get out its path. What is it?” Archer asked as he moved toward T’Pol’s station.

Power fluctuated on the bridge as Travis tried to desperately get Enterprise out of the way. “Captain, the helm isn’t responding! We’re still headed for it.”

“Trip! We need more power to thrusters; we’re headed towards some energy wave!”

“I’m tryin’ Cap’n, power relays have blown all over the ship, and we just lost warp drive! What the hells goin’ on?’

“Captain impact in 6 seconds.” T’Pol informed the captain.

“Captain, I can’t get out of its path!” Travis exclaimed.

“All hands, brace for impact!”

The energy wave engulfed Enterprise. The crew was tossed and flung about as the ship heaved within the energy wave. Within seconds it was over.

“Trip, report.”

“Trip?”

“The comm’s down sir.” Hoshi reported.

“T’Pol?”

Her eyes took on that glazed, unfocused look when she was speaking telepathically with Trip. How they were able to converse in their minds as well as have verbal conversations with others, Archer didn’t know.

“He is reporting that the warp drive is offline, but is expected to have it back within the hour. 18 power relays need replacing; the comm should be restored within a few minutes.”

“What’s our position, Travis?”

“We’re about 2 light-years closer to Earth, sir. We’re almost at Pluto.”

“Resume course at full impulse.”

“Communications are restored Captain.” T’Pol reported within a few minutes.

“Hoshi try and contact Starfleet.”

“Yes sir.”

“Sir, there’s no response. In fact, there’s nothing. Not even an acknowledgement signal. I don’t understand.” Hoshi reported.

“T’Pol, anything showing up on sensors.”

“No, Captain. They are still down.”

Enterprise continued on towards Earth as Trip repaired the warp drive and sensors.

*******************************************************************************

On the Bridge of Enterprise #1 – 25.5 Hours After Arrival

“Captain, yet another Enterprise is emerging, that’s the 18th one. They’re much closer to Pluto.” Commander Sato reported.

“Hail them.” Captain T’Pol ordered.

“No response, their comm. Must be down.” Hoshi informed her.

“They are being detected.” Lt. Naran reported.

“I have no idea what effect this will have.” Captain T’Pol felt tired and weary. She had, quite, literally spent the day talking with herself and other Enterprises crews. She wanted to leave this dimension, but had, as Trip would say, a ‘gut feeling’, that all the Enterprises had to be included. How many more would emerge?

She led the fleet of Enterprises and kept them on the edge of the communications and detection ranges of this universe’s technology. This universe was the most limited of the universe’s technology encountered.

“Keep trying Commander Sato, it’s imperative we contact them.”

*******************************************************************************

Returning to Enterprise

When the sensors were restored, T’Pol resumed her scans.

“Captain, Earth is…different.”

“In what way T’Pol?”

“It’s just…different. There are more satellites around Earth, but not of the configuration we are aware of. There is a space station near Pluto. There wasn’t one there before. I don’t understand. The configuration of that space station is different as well.”

“Captain, we’re being hailed, audio only.”

At the captain’s nod, Hoshi activated the audio hail.

“State your designation and purpose.” The voice sounded very familiar. A male’s voice with a British accent.

“This is the starship Enterprise; we’re heading back to Jupiter Station for re-fit and then onto Starfleet Command.”

“Starfleet Command, what organization is that? Who are they affiliated with? We’ve never heard of them.”

“Whom am I speaking to?” Archer asked the disembodied voice.

“This is Lt. Reed of the Cochrane Planetary Command. We don’t recognize your vessel. Are you here to trade?”

“Uh, yes, we’re here to trade. Starfleet is our headquarters. May we proceed to Earth?” Archer bluffed.

“What are you trading?”

Perplexed looks were traded amongst the bridge crew.

“Uh…exotic goods, replicators, and medical devices.” Archer shrugged and held out his hands.

“Daniels?” Hoshi asked, clearly upset. It was becoming obvious they weren’t where they should be.

“Maybe, I hope not though.”

“The CPC will take the standard processing fee of 15% of any and all profits. You may proceed.” Came the disembodied voice.

Hoshi cut the comm. signal at Archer’s indication.

“Captain, Daniels died, here on Enterprise.” T’Pol reminded the Captain.

“Maybe it’s a colleague of Daniels. I don’t know, but we need to find out. Let’s get to Earth and get as much information as possible. Can you tell if we’re in the same time?”

“It seems that we are, the stars positions are as expected. It’s Earth that’s different.”

*******************************************************************************

CPC – Pluto Station
That was weird Hoshi thought. That man they just spoke to sure sounded a lot like Archer. While the equipment might be the worst out here, her ears were extremely keen. They were going to trade medical devices and replicators. Who knows what kind of exotic goods they were going to trade. Those would be easy to take, as most didn’t have any type of distinguishing marks on them.

I’d better make contact with Travis, set up a little commandeering of this Enterprise’s shuttle. I have 24 hours in order to get things in motion.

*******************************************************************************

Back On Enterprise

“T’Pol, you, Malcolm, Hoshi, and Trip get planet-side and find out what you can. Take a couple of MACOs.”

Enterprise approached Earth slowly. Scanning the space stations and small ships they encountered along the way. The Engineering crew was busily repairing the damaged systems aboard Enterprise.

“Their weapons are not as powerful as ours, nor are any of these vessels capable of warp 5. It does not appear they have transporter technology.”

“Maybe that’s why they keep shadowing us.”

As they began orbit around Earth a number of smaller ships approached and flanked them. They bristled with weapons.

“Captain, we are being hailed again. Audio only.” At Archer’s nod, Hoshi activated the comm.

“This is Lt. Tucker of the Cochrane Planetary Command. We have been advised that you are here to trade.” A woman’s voice informed them.

“This is Captain Archer. We’re here to trade exotic good, replicators, and medical devices.”

“Archer, Jonathon Archer?” a women’s voice asked, she had a soft southern accent.

“Yes.”

“You may not proceed to the surface for 24 hours. You will be boarded and inspected. After your satisfactory inspection, you will be allowed to conduct your trading. The CPC reserves the right to confiscate anything it feels is a threat to Earth’s security.” The woman’s voice took on a menacing tone.

“All right. When can we expect you?”

“Within 20 minutes.”

“Very well, Archer out.”

“She seemed to know you, sir. Well maybe not you, but you. Am I making any sense?” Hoshi asked.

“Yes and no. Her voice was familiar.” Archer responded.

“T’Pol, you and your team get down there now. Use the transporters.” Archer ordered.

*******************************************************************************

On Enterprise #1

“Have had any success contacting the 18th Enterprise?” Captain T’Pol queried.

“No. Their comm. is still down.”

“Captain, I am picking up an energy transmission. I believe they just transported some of the crew to Earth.” Lt. Naran reported.

“We need to contact them, inform them what we have learned about this universe. I hope they haven’t sent down any non-humans.” Captain T’Pol spoke wearily.

They had no idea how xenophobic this planet was. They had been able to monitor communications and learned something of this Earth’s history. If her counterpart was on their Enterprise and was sent to Earth and discovered she was Vulcan, she’d be killed. Instantly.

*******************************************************************************

Enterprise – Transporter Pad

“I hate usin’ this thing ya know.” Trip grumbled to his mate as he appraised the transporter.

“I know, but it is necessary ashayam.”

Trip transported T’Pol and 2 MACOs first, followed by Hoshi and Malcolm. Trip was the last to join, allowing Lt. Hess to transport him down. They selected an isolated area above the city.

“Shit, we shoulda changed into civvies.” Trip observed. They had traveled only a short distance before they viewed San Francisco from a rise. “We’re gonna be real obvious guys.”

“Trip’s right. If we are to gather information, we should be as inconspicuous as possible.” Malcolm agreed.

“Commander T’Pol. I’m not reading any non-human bio-signs.” Hoshi alerted them.

“There should be more than a thousand Vulcans in the city, Ensign.”

“Perhaps so, but there aren’t. Not one. And no other non-humans.” Hoshi reported.

“What happened to ‘em T’Pol? Did you know anything about the Vulcans leavin’ Earth?”

“No. This can’t possibly be our Earth.”

“Guess we’re not in Kansas anymore.” Trip joked. At T’Pol’s confused looked, he added “Wizard of Oz. I’ll show it you when we get back.”

“If we get back.” Malcolm muttered.

“As much as I hate to cover up those cute ears, we’re gonna need to. And we’re gonna need civilian clothes.”

T’Pol contacted Enterprise, and within a few minutes, 6 sets of clothes and 1 hat materialized at T’Pol’s feet. Once they were changed, the MACOs, Chang and Parsons, disguised their larger weapons as best as possible, the group headed into the city.

*******************************************************************************

CPC Command

“You will be inspected by Major Hayes’ CPC team. Make every possible accommodation for him. Tucker out.” Archer finally recognized the voice. Trip’s sister, Lizzie. Of course this wasn’t his Trip’s sister.

“We must be in some sort of parallel universe. Einstein theorized there were parallel universes, we must be caught in one of them.” Archer expressed his concern to Travis and the backup bridge crew. “I just hope no one on his team is also on this ship or we’re going to have to do some fancy footsteps.” Archer sighed deeply as he headed towards the door.

Archer met Major Hayes at the airlock. He looked much like their late Major Hayes only this one had a scar across his forehead.

“Archer, you son of a bitch. When they told me who it was, I told them, I better be the one to inspect them. How the hell did you get out of prison?”

*******************************************************************************

Planet-side

“Let’s hit a bar.” Trip suggested.

“We’re here to gather information, not have fun.” T’Pol looked in exasperation at her mate.

“And we’re gonna! No place like a bar to get all sorts of information, right Mal?” Trip slapped Malcolm on his shoulder.

Malcolm just shook his head.

“Come on babe, I’ll even buy you a drink.” Trip grabbed T’Pol’s hand as they made their way down the street.

“Did you see the propaganda?” Malcolm asked Trip and T’Pol quietly. They had spread themselves out at the 602 Club, which seemed to be much the same as their Earth. Hoshi was flirting with the bartender, while the MACOs headed towards a corner.

They both nodded. As the away team made their way through the streets, they saw many posters against exploration of space, very few in favor of it. This society was extremely xenophobic. Many of the posters claimed that evil aliens awaited them and there was no profit in it. They saw posters showing what appeared to be a Vulcan ship being attacked by desperate looking humans. They also saw posters with friendly looking aliens. They reminded Trip of garden gnomes. He wondered what species they were, when he finally spotted a poster that claimed they were Ferengi. Apparently their true visage was a well-kept secret. They were nearing First Contact Day, a holiday on their Earth to celebrate First Contact between Vulcans and Humans. Here it celebrated the death of the ‘demon aliens’. Almost every store window had a sticker proclaiming that this establishment was approved by the CPC or sold quality Ferengi products.

“I’m just real glad you have that hat on hon.” Trip looked over at T’Pol. She was afraid, he could tell, but knew that no one else would detect it. He reached over and held her hand.

I love you baby. I’m not gonna let anything happen to you. Just stay by my side. And don’t take that hat off.

I know, I know.

Hoshi left the bar and motioned for them to join her outside.

“I think our best bet will be to go to the public library. We should be able to get whatever historical information we need there. Our Earths are very similar up to First Contact Day. Here, Cochrane and his cohorts attacked the Vulcans rather than greet them. He thought they were demons coming to take over Earth and his technology. Several of the Vulcans got away. Of course the Vulcans never came back. I think that explains why their technology is behind ours. They haven’t had the Vulcan’s assistance. But they have begun to slowly explore space, mainly trading with Ferengis.”

The wind had picked up and T’Pol was forced to hold the hat onto her head, lest it blow off. Trip was becoming anxious that T’Pol would be discovered and summarily put to death.

“There’s a shop over there. I’m gonna get you a scarf, it’ll be more secure than that hat.” Trip took off quickly to obtain the scarf, while the rest discussed strategy.

“The library is in that direction.” Hoshi indicated the direction they needed to travel.

Trip had returned within a few minutes, scarf in hand. “Let’s get out of sight. Here, in this alley.”

Trip led T’Pol into the alley while the others stood in front of them to block view of T’Pol’s pointed ears. Trip removed T’Pol soft hat and tied the long scarf around her head and over her ears.

“Commander, people are starting to stare at us.” Malcolm reported.

“We need to pair off, look like couples.” Trip suggested. A local policeman started to approach them quickly.

Hoshi surprised Malcolm when she grabbed his hand, lifted his arm and draped it across her shoulders. “I’m cold honey.” She said as she snuggled close.

“I think she missed her true calling.” Trip remarked quietly to T’Pol as he observed Hoshi’s quick thinking.

Malcolm looked as if he was going to have apoplexy. The MACOs just shrugged and stood slightly closer to each other.

“You folks lost?” the policeman asked casually. He looked the MACOs, Chang and Parsons, over with a critical eye. His gaze landed on T’Pol and he evaluated her appearance closely.

“Nah, we’re just decidin’ where to go next. Me and the wife here are on our honeymoon.” Trip flashed his most endearing smile while putting his arm around T’Pol and pulling her close, kissing her temple at the same time.

Flash those pearly whites!

T’Pol did as bidden to the amazement of the remaining 4. Fortunately the policeman was so focused on T’Pol that he didn’t notice their expressions.

“You’re kind of exotic looking.” The policeman ventured.

Tell him your mom’s from the middle-east.

“My mother’s from the middle-east.” T’Pol stated and snuggled closer to Trip and buried her head in his shoulder.

Is this sufficient behavior for a newly married human woman?

God, I love you!

“Ah! Well, you folks enjoy the city.” The policeman looked over his shoulder once again before heading away, eyeing the MACOs with suspicion. As he walked away Malcolm noticed that the policeman spoke into his communicator.

“I think we need to move away from here Commander.” Malcolm looked down at Hoshi, still firmly under his arm. He began to feel slightly uncomfortable, but in a good way. Hoshi was warm and soft and smelled so good.

“No ranks. I’m sorry; I don’t know your first names.” Trip spoke quietly to the MACOs.

“Edward.”

“Don’t laugh, Daisy.”

“Daisy?” Malcolm asked with surprise.

“It’s not like my parents knew I’d be a MACO when I was born you know!”

“Sorry, my apologies.”

“We need to locate the library and gather information regarding their version of First Contact and what has happened since then.” T’Pol once again took charge of the team. “En…Hoshi, Malcolm, lead the way. Trip and I will follow 15 meters behind you. Edward and Daisy, please bring up the rear 15 meters behind us. Inform me immediately of anything suspicious.”

“You mean like 6 people marchin’ in a military format like they’re goin’ to attack the library rather than just strollin’ over to it?” Trip looked down at T’Pol with amusement.

T’Pol realized what he said was true. “You’re correct. Let’s just…go.” T’Pol motioned for Hoshi to lead the way.

*******************************************************************************

On Enterprise

Captain Jonathon Archer was at complete loss to explain why he stood here on a Starship rather than sit in prison.

What had they said, 15% of our profit? Money must be very important to them.

“Well, you know, enough money buys you out of anything, right?”

“What, you in close with the Ferengis now? Thought you hated their guts for cutting in on you and Sato.”

“Well, I did, but may as well let bygones be bygones.”

“Glad we aren’t friends. You know I heard rumors you were the one who set Tucker up on that fatal trade mission since you owed him so much money. Guess they were true. Trip was my friend you know. That’s why I’m here.”

I got Trip killed! No, I didn’t, their Archer did.

“You going to inspect this ship, or are we going to stand around and exchange pleasantries?” Archer tried to put on a menacing face and stepped closer to Hayes.

“Sure, anything for an old buddy. Right?” Hayes sneered.

*******************************************************************************

Planet-side

The 6 members broke into 3 teams of 2 each to learn certain aspects of this Earth. The MACOs were to gather what information they could about the government and military, Trip and T’Pol were collect information regarding what had occurred since this Earth’s First Contact (April 5. 2063), and Hoshi and Malcolm were to find information regarding the event, why it happened this way, and the impact. After spending several hours in the library, the group left the library together.

“I’m hungry. Can’t we get something to eat?” Hoshi complained.

“Agreed. We can discuss our findings over a meal.” T’Pol agreed.

“Surf and turf?” Trip asked.

Everyone but T’Pol was enthusiastic.

“They’ll have salad, don’t worry. You don’t eat shellfish or fish do you?”

“There’s an excellent restaurant and ¾ of a click from here.” Corporal Chang informed them.

“Lead on.” Hoshi said enthusiastically. She once again snuggled up to Malcolm, claiming of course that she was cold.

T’Pol also shivered in the cold breeze that had come up. As Trip was removing his jacket and placing it on T’Pol, a man stopped in front of them. “Trip?”

“Excuse me?”

Do you know this man?

No, I don’t think so.

“It can’t be can it? Sorry you just look exactly like an old friend from college.”

“Well, they say everyone has a double.” Trip flashed a winsome smile, hoping the man would go away.

“You even sound like him, it’s uncanny. He died; only one left alive in his family was his sister. Sorry to have bothered you, have a nice evening.” And with that the man left, still glancing over his shoulder and shaking his head.

“Lizzie’s alive?” Trip’s heart skipped a beat when the man mentioned his sister. Trip wished he could go see her, take her with him.

“She’s not your Lizzie, Trip.” T’Pol reminded Trip.

We need to focus on the mission, t’hai’la.

“Come on, let’s find that restaurant.” Malcolm urged his friend forward.

*****************************************************************************

On the Bridge of Enterprise

“Captain, we’re being hailed.”

“Not the CPC again?”

“No, Enterprise.”

Archer looked perplexed at Ensign Namon, Hoshi’s second.

“On screen.”

“Captain, it’s good to see you again.”

Archer looked at the face of T’Pol. But it wasn’t his T’Pol. This T’Pol’s hair was shoulder length, her bangs were longer, and her collar sported the pips of a Captain.

“I believe we have much to discuss. I would like to transport over to discuss this issue with you.”

“We are being inspected by the CPC. I don’t think that’s a good idea right now.” Archer was clearly at a loss and confused. But for whatever reason, he trusted her, just as he trusted his T’Pol.

“Agreed, they don’t have transporter technology. Once they leave your ship, contact me on this frequency.” The long-haired T’Pol sent an encrypted data stream. “Tucker out.”

“Tucker?” Archer repeated.

*****************************************************************************

Planet-side

Once they were seated at the restaurant, their waitress approached them. She was in her mid-twenties and had a bright smile.

“Evening folks.” She greeted them and appraised each couple thoughtfully before going on. She thought they were a rather odd assortment, especially the woman in the middle. She didn’t look quite normal. “Can I start you off with some drinks?”

“White wine.” Hoshi ordered.

“Bourbon.” Malcolm told the waitress.

“Hot tea.” T’Pol ordered. She was still wearing Trip’s jacket and snuggled against him. Trip had slung his arm around her shoulders and was holding her close, rubbing her arms.

“Bourbon sounds good to me too.” Trip agreed with Malcolm.

Both MACOs ordered water.

“You guys need to loosen up a bit.” Trip told the MACOs. “That cop knew you were military.”

“Cop?” T’Pol asked, unfamiliar with the term.

“I actually know this. It came from around the late 1800’s, when policeman’s shields were made of copper.” Malcolm was pleased he could share this bit of trivia. “So, they were called coppers, and then it was shortened to cop. No doubt by the Americans.”

“Indeed, they like to shorten every name.” T’Pol agreed, this directed at Trip.

“Are shrimp considered animals?” T’Pol asked of the group while perusing the menu.

“I consider them tasty.” Trip replied.

The waitress returned with their drinks. They ordered their food and preceded to reveal the information they had gathered. T’Pol had surprised them by ordering a shrimp meal.

“Well, it turned out that Zefram Cochrane was a complete drunk. He was also extremely greedy. He made Phoenix One to make money. So when the Vulcans landed, he was paranoid, thought they were trying to steal his ship. He shot at them, killed two of them. The rest fired back, stun only, and fled. The Vulcans never came back. However, Cochrane went on to establish the Cochrane Planetary Command, or CPC.” Hoshi told them.

Malcolm picked up the story at that point. “After that they were slowly building ships. Cochrane wanted to go into space, but to trade, make money, not explore. After about 15 years went by, they got a little more relaxed, ventured out somewhat. The Ferengi picked up their warp trail. Well, being greedy themselves, Cochrane and the Ferengi got along famously. They communicated for some time before actually meeting face to face. Needless to say the humans were shocked by their appearance. Few have been privy to their actual appearance, mainly upper-CPC staff. The CPC have made them out to be the only friendly aliens out there, falsifying their images. Most of the population is extremely xenophobic.”

“That explains the greeting we received when we entered the solar system.” T’Pol remarked.

“And the posters. They made ‘em look like cute little gnomes.” Trip added.

“We discovered essentially the same thing. After about 50 years, the humans had crafted a ship capable of warp 2.5. They used those ships to go beyond the solar system and trade with other planets. They aren’t interested in exploration, they are interested in profits.” T’Pol joined the story.

The MACOs detailed the structure of the CPC before Daisy continued on. “There several powerful companies that have their own militias. However, they all pay a price to the CPC.”

The beep of a communicator interrupted them. T’Pol answered immediately. “Cap…” a nudge from Trip reminded her to use no ranks. “Jonathon, we have learned a great deal from our time here. We are currently eating in a crustacean and bovine facility.”

Archer was stunned to hear T’Pol refer to him by name.

“Surf and turf, T’Pol. It’s called surf and turf.” Trip chuckled and reminded her as he kissed her temple.

Archer had to smile, when he heard Trip’s voice.

“Tell me later. We’re still being inspected; I think it’s best if you stayed down there. They don’t know we have 6 crew on the planet and I want to keep it that way. We told them the transporter was a disposal device.”

“Understood. We will contact you when we have more privacy.”

Daisy finished detailing the CPC’s hand in almost every aspect of the economy and various militias.

“Reminds me of those Godfather movies, the mob was involved in legitimate and illegal businesses.” Hoshi chimed in.

“It does indeed.”

They continued sharing information as they ate their meal.

“We will need to find accommodations for the night.” T’Pol reminded the group.

“Should be plenty around here, we’ll find somethin’”

“If you will excuse me, I need to use the ladies room.” T’Pol looked towards Malcolm and Hoshi to allow her egress from the booth.

“I’ll go with you.” Hoshi added.

The waitress came to remove their dinner dishes and asked about dessert.

“I don’t suppose you have any pecan pie?” Trip asked hopefully.

“No sir. But we do have a delicious cheese cake.”

“OK. My wife and I will split one.”

Trip failed to notice the confused looks exchanged between Malcolm and the MACOs. Both MACOs ordered a dessert type coffee, while Malcolm ordered ice cream for each him and Hoshi.

“There are suitable accommodations several blocks from here.” T’Pol informed the group upon her and Hoshi’s return.

“Owww! Ice cream. Thanks. The hostess told us about the hotel.” Hoshi added, delighted to find ice cream waiting for her.

“OK, guess we’ll head there next. Have some cheese cake hon.”

*****************************************************************************

In Enterprise # 18’s Ready Room

“We have been trapped here like you, and 16 other Enterprises. I feel we need to combine our efforts and get back to our own universes. Since you have been here for several hours, and no more Enterprises have emerged, I am assuming you will be the last.”

Archer looked attentively at the long-haired T’Pol. She was more relaxed and sure of herself than his. She was calm and collected, would smile briefly, and also allow her Trip to openly touch her. She used logic, but it didn’t dominate her life. These Vulcans had found a balance between logic and controlled emotions. T’Pol #1 had designated each vessel that had come through the rift. They being first and his Enterprise was the last, the 18th. Hoshi Sato was her First Office and was doing an excellent job.

“Sure have missed ya, Jon.” Trip # 1 looked over at him fondly.

Their Archer hadn’t made out of the sphere before it exploded. T’Pol #1 had taken command and Trip took over as second. They too had been through the Xindi attack.

“We were able to forestall the other Enterprises from getting within the CPC’s communications range, but you came out too close. We couldn’t inform you in time.”

“The CPC seized my Doctor.”

“They took Phlox? Ya gotta get him back!”

“And we will Trip. I’ve got 6 people on the planet. You, you, Hoshi, Malcolm and 2 MACOs.” Archer shook his head at hearing himself say something so strange. “Don’t worry, we’ll get him back, we know where’ve they taken him.”

T’Pol #1 was pregnant with Trip’s baby. This Trip and T’Pol had married shortly after she had broken her engagement to Koss. Their Vulcans assisted Earth in its technology development and consequently had a more advanced ship, capable of warp 7.

“You seem more…emotional…than my T’Pol.” Archer #18 spoke quietly.

“At first, it was believed to totally repress emotions. However, that proved to be detrimental. Our world began to stagnate. No fresh ideas, no art, no advances in technology, even our population was beginning to dwindle. So, we again looked at ourselves and realized that a balance between emotions and logic was only logical. While we greatly control our emotions, we allow ourselves to feel and demonstrate those emotions. Your T’Pol is purely logical?”

“Well, I don’t know that I’d go that far.” Archer smiled, thinking of just how emotional she could be.

“Indeed. Well I suggest we assemble in your mess hall to discuss our present situation. Phlox is the only constant in our universes. Prepare yourself captain. Some of the other universes are quite different.” T’Pol #1 warned him.

*****************************************************************************

Planet-side

“We have a double room suite, but will only sleep 4 people. We also have sufficient double rooms available.”

“Any with connecting doors?”

“I have one set available on the 14th floor. And another room available on the 17th floor. The suites adjoin by a small sitting room in the middle. That room has a room available across the hall.”

“We’ll take that one.”

“That will be $3,680 for the night.”

Trip tried not to show his shock.

Do we have enough funds?

I guess they want money now. I got enough to cover us babe.

“Here ya go.”

They hadn’t discussed the room divisions, although it was apparent that Trip and T’Pol would share a room. All entered the double room suite first. Trip and T’Pol left it to the others to decide how they wanted to share accommodations. It was eventually decided that Daisy and Hoshi would take the room across the hall and Malcolm and Edward would take the other room, although Malcolm declared he would sleep on the couch of the suite’s small living room.

T’Pol contacted the captain and detailed their findings. They discovered that Enterprise was still occupied by the CPC staff. However they would transport down additional money and clothing within a few minutes.

“Well, we may as well get some shut eye. Night.” Trip bid everyone, before escorting T’Pol to their room.

*****************************************************************************

In Enterprise #18 Mess Hall

Captain Archer #18 looked over at the assembled T’Pols, Charles Tuckers, Jonathon Archers, Malcolm Reeds, Hoshi Satos, Travis Mayweathers, and 17 Doctor Phloxs. This had to be, by far, the most unusual meeting he ever had. This beat anything they encountered in the Expanse. The crew from Enterprise #4 was easily identifiable by the perpetual cloud of smoke. He had been surprised that T’Pol #1 had an Andorian First Officer considering the animosity that brewed between their species.

Archer #11 had come over to Trip and T’Pol #1. “I have missed you two. My Trip and T’Pol sacrificed themselves for Earth, for everyone. The only way we could stop the sphere was to use Enterprise as a weapon. Trip rigged the engines to overload, but it had to be detonated manually, so many of the systems were damaged. The crew was heading for the escape pods. I was going to stay on the ship. Captain goes down with the ship, right?” He shook his head ruefully. “T’Pol shoved me in an escape pod. Said she couldn’t live without Trip. She was pregnant with their baby.” Archer #11 choked up. “Well, at least your alive and bringing a child into this world in one of these universes. Gives me hope.”

“Captain Sato. Those pips look good on you.” Archer #18 greeted Sato #10. She sported a sleek short haircut and walked with an air of confidence.

“It’s good to see you again sir. Our Archer, Commander Tucker, and Sub-Commander T’Pol died stopping the Xindi too. When one of the reptilians killed T’Pol, Commander Tucker went crazy, started killing them. He breeched their reactor, blew the whole sphere up. The Captain was with them at the time. It stopped them, they saved Earth.”

The T’Pol of Enterprise # 6 had left after her 2-week stint and never returned. The T’Pol on Enterprise #9 had left Enterprise and married Koss. Archer #18 noted idly that of the remaining Enterprises, excluding the 8th and 14th, Trip and T’Pol had become a couple. And it certainly looked like the #14’s were headed in that direction, judging by history.

Captain Reed #13 had been the only bridge crewmember to survive the Xindi conflict. His emotional scars had yet to heal and seeing the other Archers, T’Pols, Tuckers, Mayweathers, and Satos tore at his heart. 17 Doctor Phloxs tried to comfort him.

Out of the 18 Enterprises, 11 of them had experienced the conflict with the Xindi and had suffered losses.

The 8 Captain Archers, 4 Captain T’Pols, 3 Captain Tuckers, 2 Captain Reeds, and the 1 Captain Sato conferred on their common issue.

Captain Chuck Tucker # 7 and First Officer Pol #7 regarded the assemblage with open hostility. “The only reason, I’m not blowing you pussies up is cause, Pol #1 over there convinced me we all need you to be around so we can get back home. Personally, I don’t give a shit about any of you, but if your sorry assess need to live so I can get back home, so be it. Course she didn’t say anything about hurtin’ any of ya.” He finished with an evil grin.

Archer #18 looked on at Tucker #7 with sadness. He wondered what kind of universe had tuned such a kind man into a vicious killer and a Vulcan into a slut.

“Hey dudes, you need to like, loosen it up. I’m the Reed-Meister. I brought enough weed for everyone. So, like, man, take a puff, and chill man.” Reed #4 opened a satchel filled with enough refers for the entire crew.

“I’m Big Dude on my ship, you’re like totally establishment, man.” Archer #4 said to Archer #18. “And you dude, are so totally, like militant, man. Give it up! Doesn’t it like, kill your feet man, smacking them on the deck like that man?” This was directed at Archer #8.

Apparently the Germans won WWII in their universe and their Earth had evolved to be run under the military forces. Archer #18 got to see what he’d look like with a shaved head and a goatee as sported by Archer #8. He didn’t particularly like the look.

“You lack discipline. I’m stunned you people made it off the planet. And what about you T’Pol of Vulcan? You have sunk low.” Archer #8 spat at Archer and T’Pol #4. Archer #8 was cold and disciplined. Archer #18 thought they were more unemotional than many Vulcans he knew. There was no friendliness, no idle chit-chat. This Trip didn’t joke or smile. T’Pol and Tucker #8 stood ram-rod straight behind him at all times. Their high-collared, stiff black uniforms were imposing. “You degenerates would have been eliminated in my world.”

“Hey, man, it’s like a totally awesome ride. You should try it. Open your mind to other possibilities.” Tuppy # 4 said. Her eyes were half closed in pleasure as Chip # 4 nuzzled her ear. T’Pol #8 looked on with disgust.

“Tuppy was, like uptight at first. Not like your Tuppy, I mean can she even sit down with that rod up her ass?” Chip and Tuppy #4 dissolved into a fit of laughter. “But, dude, get her high, and man, she’s is so much fun, man. Oh and in bed….” His words were cut short by an enthusiastic kiss by T’Pol #4.

T’Pol #1 stood beside Archer #18 and discussed the situation quietly. Since she had been here the longest, she took charge of the group. Her Enterprise had run various scenarios to determine how to rectify the situation. As each Enterprise emerged, they gathered more data, added more brains to the mix. They had finally determined they all needed to head back to the wave and enter it again in the same order of emergence and at the same time spans with their crew intact.

Trip and T’Pol #14 stood behind the main pack of people. They were bickering quietly with one another about the possibility of parallel dimensions. Archer #18 had to smile to himself. T’Pol #14 was just like his a few years ago. She still sported the super short haircut, and was still part of the Vulcan High Command.

“You’ve gotta be kiddin’ me T’Pol? We’re standin’ here on the 18th Enterprise, and you’re lookin’ at yourself, a coupla of them, and you still say, it’s only possible?” Trip #14 exclaimed to T’Pol #14.

“The VHC has determined that parallel dimensions are unrealistic. As is time travel.” That set off a whole other argument.

Archer #14 sighed heavily and rolled his eyes. He looked into Archer #18’s amused expression. “Yours too?”

“Yep. It took almost 4 years, but they finally came to realize and acknowledge their deep love for one another.” Archer #18 told him.

“Mine hate each other.” Archer #14 confided to Archer #18.

“No, they don’t. Look at them. You ever see two people who hate each other argue standing 1 foot apart? They can’t take their eyes off each other. My Trip told me he has fun arguing with her. I think she likes it too. No, yours will end up together too. I’m sure of it. Look how many there are.” Archer #18 waved his hand at the strange assemblage. “Even the ones that didn’t make it were in love with each other. Phlox may be a constant, but so are they. Sooner or later, they’ll be together.”

“Are you nuts? You’ve experienced both, and yet you still stand there claimin’ it can’t be. You’re the most pig-headed person I have ever met!” Trip #14 glared at T’Pol #14.

“Pig-headed?”

“Yeah, you know stubborn, intractable, obstinate, inflexible, mule-headed!” He defined the term for her.

Archer #18 couldn’t help but laugh; he had heard the very same argument a month and a half ago.

T’Pol #14 noticed Archer #18 was openly amused.

Archer #18 couldn’t help but chuckle. “Something amuses you Captain Archer #18?” T’Pol #14 asked, stepping up to him.

“Ah, yes, you two. My Trip and T’Pol used to, well, in fact still do, bicker all the time.”

“And that is humorous to you?” T’Pol #14 asked flatly.

“Well, yes, in a way. I heard this very argument just 6 weeks ago. They’re planning on getting married.” Archer #18 told them.

“Your T’Pol must have suffered a head injury.” T’Pol #14 told Archer #18.

“You sayin’ you’d have to be sick in the head to be with me?” Trip #14 asked T’Pol #14, appalled.

“I believe that is exactly what I said.” She replied with a quirk of her eyebrow.

“Seems you two get together in almost every universe. I’m just surprised you two haven’t gotten together yet, that’s all.” Archer #18 replied.

“In case you didn’t notice, we can’t stand each other, Cap’n.” Trip Tucker #14 spoke up, still glaring at T’Pol #14. He stood close behind T’Pol #14. Her hands clasped behind her back, his clasped in front. Of course Trip #14 kept glancing down at T’Pol#14’s backside.

“Uh-huh.” Archer #18 smiled knowingly.

*****************************************************************************

CPC Criminal Detention Facility

“Look, I don’t know what you want with me, I’m just a Doctor. My name is Phlox, I’m a Denobulan. I mean you no harm.” Phlox spoke to his guard.

“Shut up…thing.” The guard jerked on Phlox’s arm to emphasize his point.

While Enterprise was being inspected the CPC had discovered him and seized him immediately. They accused Archer of harboring unauthorized aliens aboard. Only Ferengi were sanctified traders.

Archer’s quick thinking to bribe Major Hayes with medical devices ‘of Denobulan make’, saved his life. Major Hayes was about to execute Phlox when Archer stunned with a phaser. It was a good thing Major Hayes’ greed was more profound than his hatred for Captain Archer.

The CPC still had insisted on removing him from the ship to be “analyzed and de-briefed”. They claimed they would hold him for 24 hours to ensure he wouldn’t contaminate anyone.

“If you had left me on my ship, there wouldn’t be any risk! This makes no sense! Please release me.” Phlox pleaded with the guard.

“I said shut up! Here, you can keep this creep company! He hates aliens as much as I do.” The guard opened a cell door and shoved the benign Doctor roughly inside.

Doctor Phlox was shocked to look into the face of a very angry Captain Archer.

“What the hell are you?” Archer asked the alien in front of him.

“I’m Doctor Phlox, a Denobulan.” Phlox knew this wasn’t his Archer. This man’s face bore a scar across his left cheek, and the lines in his face were more deeply etched.

“You’re ugly is what you are! I hate aliens.” Archer said to him quietly. He was just about to strangle the smiling alien when a thought occurred to him. He had felt that something was going to happen today. This had to be it. “But, if you can help me get out of this cell, I can help you get out of this facility.”

“Do you think they let me carry a phaser in here?” Phlox asked acidly.

“You said you were a doctor? They’ll come to question you soon, torture is more like it. If they think they can make money off of you, you’ll live. If they don’t you’ll die. It’s real simple.” Archer glared at him.

“What did you have in mind?” Phlox asked the angry Archer.

Jonathon Archer laid put his plan to the alien before him. As the doctor agreed and amended his plan, his ideals began to change. If he and Hoshi were to have a successful smuggling operation, they would need to embrace alien cultures. She had tried to convince him over the years that his extreme xenophobia would be a detriment to them all. Maybe she was right.

*****************************************************************************

Planet-side

Honey, you’re too loud. These walls aren’t like the bulkheads on the ship.

Well, no. I guess you’re right. But ya might wake up Malcolm.

Trip tried to stifle T’Pol’s keening by kissing her deeply, his tongue probing her mouth. A few moments later, they heard pounding on their bedroom door.

“Trip, T’Pol?”

“Sonofabitch.” Trip muttered. “Just a minute.” He called out.

“Is everything OK in there? I heard a strange sound.”

“In a minute!” Trip called out again, raising his voice.

I hope he doesn’t bust that door open, if he does he’s gonna see my bare ass!

Don’t worry about darlin’.

Trip untangled himself from T’Pol after they had both climaxed and wrapped a towel around his waist before opening the door.

“What is it Malcolm?” Trip tried not to be acidic.

“The captain has been trying to get a hold of you or T’Pol, but you didn’t answer.”

Trip sighed heavily. “I turned ‘em off. Look, I just wanted to take 30 minutes and make love to my wife. Is that so bad?”

“Your wife? You know Trip, that cop isn’t around anymore. You don’t need to keep up the charade.” Malcolm narrowed his eyes as he looked at Trip.

Trip looked at Malcolm for a long moment before closing the door to their bedroom. Trip continued on in a soft voice. “She is my wife Malcolm. In the true ancient Vulcan traditions, we’re married. Course I wanna have a human weddin’ as well. In fact, my folks have the ring and everything. I was gonna tell her after she met my folks. So, I want to get back to our time or dimension or whatever this is just as badly as you do.”

“Tell her? What happened to asking?” Malcolm asked confused.

“If I ask, she might say no. So I’m not akin’ her, I’m just gonna tell her.” Trip declared.

Malcolm nodded thoughtfully at Trip. “Good luck with that one. Please let me know when you have that conversation, I want to watch.” Malcolm smiled at Trip’ sour expression. “Well, regardless, the captain needs to talk to all of us ASAP. I sent Edward over to wake the ladies a few moments ago.”

“I better get dressed. T’Pol...”

Malcolm didn’t hear the rest of the conversation as Trip closed the door behind him. Minutes later all were gathered into the small living room, listening to the captain.

“They’ve taken Phlox, some facility in Oakland. I need you to retrieve him and get back to the ship as quickly as possible. I have no idea what they’ll do to him, so I need you to get him, and quick.”

“What about the transporters?” Malcolm inquired.

“We tried, but they’ve got some sort of shielding or he’s too deep underground. There’s more. There are 17 other Enterprises out here, some sort of parallel universe collision.”

“What?” Hoshi asked, stunned.

“It’s a long story. Suffice to say, we weren’t the only ones caught in that energy wave. We’ve been working with Captain Tucker on a solution.” Archer informed them.

“I’m Cap’n, huh?”

“No, you’re married to the Captain.”

“Even better, sleepin’ with the Cap’n. Is she gorgeous with pointy ears?” Trip asked while leaning over and kissing T’Pol’s cheek.

Archer chuckled as he answered. “Do you really need to ask?”

“No. I guess I fall in love with her in every universe.”

“Not this one.” T’Pol reminded him.

“Nope, I’m dead here and never got a chance to meet you.”

“We must focus on the mission t’hai’la.”

“Prepare to receive a download to your tricorder with Phlox’s coordinates. Once you’ve got him, we’ll beam you up immediately. You’ve got 3 hours.”

*****************************************************************************

Across from the CPC Criminal Detention Facility

The away team made their way across the bay to Oakland to retrieve their doctor by using a “borrowed” ground car. The information downloaded into the tricorder led them quickly to the Doctor’s location. Captain Archer had beamed down additional weapons for them as well.

It was a large facility well lit and guarded. They scanned the area to determine their best way to infiltrate.

“Well, babe, use those spy skills of yours.” Trip turned to T’Pol. While Trip knew he was extremely intelligent, he wasn’t much for planning attacks.

T’Pol merely raised her eyebrow in irritation at Trip.

“Trip, Ensign Soto, and Corporal Parsons take the southern entrance. Lt. Reed, Corporal Chang and I will take the other one. My team will cover your approach, once you are in position you will cover ours. Use the stun setting, but if need be you have authorization to eliminate any potential threat to your life or the Doctor’s. Once we get inside, scan for his bio-sign; I’m sure there is only 1 Denobulan in there. Let the other team know he’s been located and provide the location. Once he is retrieved, make for the outside at best possible speed. Our transporters won’t penetrate their shields. Enterprise will transport us up immediately.”

“What if we’re in the open, won’t their guards see?” Hoshi asked.

“The Captain has ordered us to transport immediately. He is unconcerned about these people witnessing that event. Let’s go.”

The 2 teams made their way down the embankment while keeping to the shadows as best as possible. Once they were within 50 meters of the compound it would be difficult to remain undetected.

“Trip, hold. There are infrared sensors across the fencing, and alarm will go off once we breach the fence or try and climb it. We need to find another way in.”

“Hold on. What?!?” Trip was speaking to Hoshi.

“Uh, T’Pol, Hoshi’s got, well, an idea on how to get in. Um, I think it’s worth a shot.”

“What is her plan?”

“Well, let’s just say it’s a little more bold than somethin’ you might try. She suggested seducin’ the guards. Get them to open the gate.”

“I don’t understand.”

“Well, her plan is to have, umm…all of you ladies…act…well…like….um…”

“Oh, we’ll be here all night at this pace Commander, if you please?” Hoshi’s voice was heard from a short distance away. “Commander T’Pol? My idea is for us to act like hookers and have the men act like our pimps. All I see are men, so I’m guessing they wouldn’t mind seeing 3 pretty ladies to warm their beds.” Hoshi outlined her plan to T’Pol.

Silence ensued on the other end.

“T’Pol?” Trip tired to suppress his laughter; T’Pol was too stunned by Hoshi’s suggestion to respond. He couldn’t imagine T’Pol purposely acting sexy.

T’Pol had finally recovered enough to respond; she could her Trip’s chuckling in the background. “Perhaps all but one of us should act like prostitutes, you presume that all the guards are heterosexuals.”

Trip stopped laughing and Malcolm started.

*****************************************************************************

Inside the CPC Criminal Detention Facility

“Come on you ugly alien, get up.”

“I am in distress, there must be something in your environment that is detrimental to my physiology. I am having difficulty moving.” Phlox called from his prone position on the floor.

“Then have that creep help you. You want an extra ration today Archer, then help that thing to the cell door.” The guard spoke to them through the opening in the door.

Archer roughly grabbed Phlox and hauled him to his fete. “Come on ridge-head, I want you out of my cell. You stink it up with your alien smell.”

The guard opened the door to allow them egress. Doctor Phlox moved with astonishing speed behind the guard and administered the Vulcan neck pinch. The guard slumped to the floor where Archer and Phlox drabbed him inside. Archer removed the guard’s uniform and quickly donned it himself. Phlox had positioned himself in the doorway; there was no way he was going to get shut inside. He didn’t trust this Archer one little bit.

Phlox and Archer stepped out into the hallway and began to make their way out of the cellblock.

“I didn’t think something like that would work.” Archer spoke quietly to Phlox.

“Something I learned from a friend.”

*****************************************************************************

At the Main Gate of the CPC Criminal Detention Facility

“I have many delights for you. Beautiful exotic women, handsome men, take your pick.” Malcolm presented his charges with a flourish. Hoshi had been correct. The guards had flocked to the gates when they approached.

Trip smiled through gritted teeth, while he observed Hoshi and Daisy sling sultry smiles in the direction of the guards. T’Pol stood still and straight, frowning. Even Corporal Change was having a bit of fun with this. T’Pol had insisted that Trip himself be one of the available “delights”. Saying he was, after all, quite attractive. Much to his dismay, one of the guards indeed seemed interested in him.

Hoshi’s plan better work and quick, that’s all I’m sayin’.

I didn’t say we’d actually go through with anything; I just think you should share the humiliation with us, that’s all.

“Well, I like that blond fellow over there. He looks big and strong.”

“Oh he is, and very flexible. Has many talents.”

“I’m gonna kill you later for this ya know Malcolm, enjoy it now friend, enjoy it now.” Trip spoke under his breath to Malcolm, while Malcolm lifted his arms and poked his chest.

Malcolm couldn’t help but smile wider. Oh how he was enjoying this! “See, so well toned.”

“I’ll take this little oriental one, I like exotic women. That one over there needs to loosen up. She new?” the guard pointed over to T’Pol.

“Yes. Well, shall we start negotiations?”

Malcolm dickered with the guards for several minutes before settling on a price. Much as Hoshi predicted, they opened the gate to allow them entrance. The guards were caught off guard by the sudden attack. Both Trip and Malcolm disarmed the guards with their phasers, T’Pol by her Vulcan neck pinch, while the MACOs took out the sentries on the top of the building.

They made there way swiftly to the main doors, just as they were about to breach the door an alarm sounded.

“We need to move quick. Inside everyone.”

T’Pol and Hoshi began to immediately scan for the Denobulan bio-sign.

“Got him. He’s…headed this way.” Hoshi spoke with surprise.

“Maybe he broke outta his cell.” Trip commented.

“Or they may be taking him for interrogation.” Corporal Chang offered. “They are very xenophobic, and it’s a sure chance they have never encountered a Denobulan before.”

“Then we shall met him halfway. Corporal Chang, you take the lead. Ensign Sato, provide the coordinates.” With a curt nod of her head, T’Pol indicated the rest should fall out and retrieve the doctor.

“He’s 1 level down from us, there’s a human bio-sign traveling with him. This way.” Hoshi indicated the direction they should travel.

Soon they began to meet resistance as guards found the intruders. They stunned the guards with their hand phasers, the MACOs using their phaser rifles. Both Edward and Daisy proved to be excellent marksmen.

“He’s 50 meters in that direction, turn here.” The 6-member team followed Hoshi’s directions without argument. Malcolm was shot in the leg, but continued to limp along with Trip’s help.

“I’m fine Commander, I can make it now.”

“Doctor!” T’Pol as the first to spot him, Trip could hear the relief in her voice.

They froze as his companion came into view. Captain Archer, but not their Captain Archer.

“Your doctor and I have an agreement. I help him, he helps me. I want out of here.” Archer demanded.

“He is correct. While this Archer is despicable, I will honor my agreement.”

“Despicable, I like the sound of that. Hoshi? What are you doing with these…people? Tucker?” the last was said with a sneer.

“Cap’n?” Trip asked, confused.

He isn’t our Captain, beloved.

This is too weird.

“We are from another universe. We are here to retrieve our doctor. We will honor his agreement. Come, we must make all due haste.” T’Pol turned and headed for the exit without waiting for anyone to acknowledge her, knowing they would quickly follow.

Guards shot at them as they passed by, both Chang and Parsons sustained minor wounds. A guard from up high fired down on them, catching T’Pol in the arm. Bright green blood splattered on her clothes and on the ground.

T’Pol looked up to the guards face, and seeing his horrified expression, yanked the scarf off her head. The guard looked at the ‘demon alien’ and ran screaming out of sight.

“You all right darlin’?” Trip grabbed T’Pol’s arm to examine the damage.

“I’m fine, we need to keep moving.” T’Pol took the lead, wearing a fierce expression on her face. She had taken one of Parsons spare rifles and was firing it at anything that moved. Guards that didn’t suffer from phaser wounds were so terrified of her; they back peddled out of her way. She snarled for added measure.

Once outside, T’Pol contacted the ship to begin transportation. “Trip, you, the Doctor and Hoshi transport up first.” T’Pol ordered.

“No way, I’m not gonna leave you here.” Trip spoke earnestly.

“T’Pol to Enterprise, 4 to transport up. Commander Tucker, Ensign Sato, and Doctor Phlox. Lock onto their bio-signs and engage.”

“T’Pol!” Trip cried as he beamed up to the ship.

“What’s this transporter you’re talking…” Jonathon Archer asked. He fell silent as he watched four people fade away.

“You are on your own, Mr. Archer. T’Pol to Enterprise, transport up the MACOs and Lt. Reed. Engage.” T’Pol kept her phaser rifle aimed squarely at Archer’s head.

“You’re one of those Vulcans, aren’t you?” Archer looked at her closely, her green blood splattered on her clothing and her delicately pointed ears. She didn’t appear to be a vicious killer. She could have shot him dead, left his body here or inside.

“Yes.” Her voice faded away as did her body.

*****************************************************************************

Mess Hall – Enterprise # 18

Various officers from the 18 Enterprises were collected in the Mess Hall of Enterprise #18. Archer and Hoshi #18 were mingling with the crowd, while Trip and T’Pol #18 quietly observed the assemblage.

“This beats everything to hell and back. I thought meeting a son almost 3 times my age was weird, but this tops it.” Trip #18 said to his T’Pol.

Trip and T’Pol #1 weren’t far away and overheard the comment.

“Your son?” T’Pol #1 inquired.

“Yeah, when we were in the Expanse, we wound up meetin’ our descendents. Enterprise got thrown back in time, and T’Pol and I had a son.” Trip #18 explained.

“We’re gonna have a boy.” Trip #1 was clearly intrigued by the story, grinned at his wife.

“Don’t suppose ya already picked out a name?” Trip #18 asked.

“As a matter of fact, we have.” Trip #1 responded.

“Let me guess. Lorian?”

“He’s right, this is weird.” Trip #1 agreed.

“May I ask how long you have been married?” T’Pol #18 asked.

“3 years, 2 months and 4 days. Trip read a private letter sent to me insisting I return to Vulcan to marry Koss. At first, I was very angry with him for reading my personal mail.” T’Pol #1 noticed the look exchanged between the two and surmised that same event had occurred here. “Trip convinced me there was something better on board. He was correct. I married him shortly after that event.” T’Pol #1 reached up and lovingly stroked Trip #1’s cheek.

“Best mistake I ever made.” Trip #1 stated.

“Ya know, babe, I think she’s smarter than you.” Trip #18 eased T’Pol #18.

“Perhaps her Trip could actually articulate a romantic proposal. Quite frankly, I was never really aware you were asking me out for a date the way you stumbled around…” T’Pol #18 began to answer.

“Now wait a minute here….” Trip #18 interrupted her, staring to get irritated.

“Enough you two!” Said 3 Archers in unison (# 3, 14, and 18). The 3 men looked at each other before throwing their heads back in laughter.

Trip and T’Pol #18 looked indignant at the 3 Captain Archers arrayed before them.

“Sorry, we’re just so used to saying that, habit.” Archer #14 interjected. “Mine are over there arguing again.” He pointed to his set, at the opposite end of the room.

Trip #18 looked over at the couple with interest. “Ya know, I just gotta find out.” He said as he took off in their direction.

“Evenin’.” Trip #18 greeted Trip and T’Pol #14. They had ceased their bickering when he approached. No wonder Malcolm and Archer had teased him about him and T’Pol. Seeing these two, which were so much like him and T’Pol, he could clearly see what everyone else did. Even then, there had been a strong attraction for each other, not just physical, but mental as well.

“So, you two haven’t hooked up yet, huh?” Trip #18 ventured.

“I sincerely doubt that will occur. It is ridiculous to assume that events that have occurred to our counterparts will occur for us.” T’Pol #14 answered.

Trip #18 just started to smile and laugh. T’Pol #18 had overheard her counterpart’s response as she came up behind her Trip. The words were eerily familiar.

“You are amused?” T’Pol #14 asked with a raised eyebrow.

“Oh, let’s just say, I’ve heard that before.”

“Perhaps we should speak privately.” T’Pol #18 suggested to T’Pol #14.

What are ya doin’?

Nothing more than you, ashayam.

Trip #18 waited until the T’Pol’s left before turning back to himself.

“Let me ask you, did you ever read a personal letter of hers?” Trip #14’s face began to flush red. “I can see that’s a yes. Ya know she’s the best thing that ever happened to me. Don’t let her go.”

“We can’t stand each other, we fight all the time.”

“Yeah, fun isn’t it? Maybe you should ask yourself why you tease her all the time.”

“I just like to get her goat.” Trip #14 tried to reason away.

“I know you do, I did the same thing. I came up with Movie Night just to spend off-duty time with her. Course I bumbled through the askin’ her on a date part, so ya gotta be specific, be direct. She likes those silly 1950’s B-Movie Sci-fi flicks, lots of butter and salt on her popcorn. After the movie she’ll dissect the most inane aspects of the movie with ya. But, that’s the fun part.”

“T’Pol, fun?” Trip #14 looked skeptical.

“Yes, she’s a lot of fun. Ya just gotta get to know her. Look, she’s lonely and vulnerable. She’d never admit, and don’t ya ever, and I mean ever, admit ya know it. She wants to be your friend, hell she wants to be more than that; she just doesn’t know how to go about it. And let’s face it, despite havin’ a reputation as bein’ a ladies man, we’re both chicken when it comes to women. Apparently Trip #1 was more direct, they’ve been married for over 3 years. There’s a lot to her, ya just gotta take the time to notice.”

“I don’t know. She’s so…arrogant. And emotionless.”

“Oh, she’s arrogant all right, but I love her all the same. But not emotionless, most passionate woman I’ve ever known. The signs are there, they’re just real subtle. Trust me, you’ll never regret it.”

As Trip #18 walked away to join his T’Pol, T’Pol #14 was returning to Trip #14. Her expression had changed; she wasn’t quite so sure of herself. T’Pol #14 stood nearby Trip #14 fidgeting.

“What’d you tell her?”

“To return to Vulcan and marry Koss.” At Trip’s shocked expression, T’Pol actually chuckled. “You take me so seriously, Trip.”

“You’re somethin’ else, ya know that?” Trip shook his head and looked over at the assembled guests. “You know, I really can’t stand the crew from Enterprise #7, but her outfit is…”

“No.”

“Not even the pants?” Trip #18 teased her.

“No.”

“Well, can’t blame a guy for tryin’. Enterprise #4, now those folks know how to party. Hoshi looks pretty good with purple hair, wouldn’t you agree?”

“No I do not. Although it is fascinating how different some of the dimensions have developed. Some are so similar to our own experiences, others, so very different. However, Doctor Phlox seems to be the same no matter what.”

The crew from Enterprise #7 and #8 stood apart from the rest. Both crews had an extreme dislike for the others and showed their disdain openly. They seemed to get along somewhat with each other.

Trip #18 observed Trip #7 for a while. He could see what he’d have been like if he’d continued down that self-destructive path of retribution. What he saw, he didn’t like. If it hadn’t been for T’Pol, keeping him in line, helping him with the nightmares, he could see what he’d be if he had given in to his darker side.

You are nothing like him, t’hai’la.
But, I coulda been, if it weren’t for you, that might be me right now.
No, he is cruel and vicious. He takes delight in hurting others. That is not you, and never was.
I love you T’Pol, more than you could ever know. You kept me goin’.
I do know how much you love me, we are joined. I love you too, ashayam.

Hoshi #18 sat across from Hoshi #10. “Captain, I never thought I’d be Captain.”

“When Archer, Tucker, and T’Pol were killed Lt. Reed fell into a deep despair. He was unable to take command. I don’t know where I found the strength, but I relieved him of duty and took over. We continued the mission, stopping the other Xindi forces. He hasn’t been the same since. However, he is making a fine First Officer. Someday though, I think he’ll make Captain.”

“I’m surprised he doesn’t resent it. Our Lt. Reed would.” Hoshi #18 confided.

“I think he was so despondent, that he didn’t care. When we returned to Earth, Starfleet promoted me to Captain and officially offered me Enterprise. I snapped it and haven’t regretted the decision.” Hoshi #10 spoke softly, her eyes seeking out Reed #10.

“Hey, dudes, before, we like get back to that bad-ass wave, man. Let’s stoke up man. If you establishment types get all charred and toasted, you’ll enjoy the ride man. Reed-meister, open that satchel man. This is the best stuff Risa’s got to offer, man.” Archer #4 offered to the group.

Unfortunately 17 Doctor Phloxs began to lecture on the damage of drugs. Doctor Phlox # 4, however, marched up and grabbed a large joint and happily lit it in front of them. The crew from Enterprise #4 was smoking enough reefers to get the remaining crew buzzed just by being in the same room.

“I can provide a stimulant to counteract the effects, Captain, not to worry, not to worry.” Phlox #18 told his Captain, or at least he hoped it was his Captain.

*****************************************************************************

The flotilla of 18 Enterprises approached the energy wave slowly. Enterprise #1 had determined that the wave was actually a rift between the parallel dimensions. Surprisingly it was T’Pol #7 who discerned they would each need to reverse the polarization of their hulls to the energy wave in order to return whence they came. Enterprise #18’s job was to seal the breach once they returned to their universe.

There had been some tearful farewells, mainly between those that had lost their respective members. Enterprise #1 and Enterprise #11 seemed particularity saddened to say farewell. Most of the Enterprises had agreed to share the databases with each other, sharing some difference in technology and history. Enterprises # 7 and 8 had declined to participate.

Archer watched from the bridge as each ship winked out 90 minutes apart. His own crew was back, safe and sound. Phlox had informed him that he had shared a cell with the Archer from this world, a cruel and greedy man.

“Archer to Engineering.”

“Ready, Cap’n?”

“Yes, reverse polarity of the hull. Travis, take us in.”

The ship bucked and spun as before, again they experienced the same situation of blown power relays. However, this time, the warp drive and communications stayed online. Trip was prepared for that occurrence.

“Hoshi, contact Starfleet Command.”

“T’Pol?”

“It appears we are where we should be.”

“Sir, Starfleet is responding.”

“Find out if it’s our Starfleet. I want to be sure before we blow that thing up.”

“Captain, the signatures match, we’re home.” T’Pol informed the captain with relief.

“Malcolm, have fun.”

“Yes sir!” Malcolm smiled tightly as he sent a barrage of torpedoes into the receding energy wave.

*****************************************************************************

On the Greed Earth

“Hoshi, sorry it took me so long to contact you.” Archer spoke into a stolen communicator.

“Where have you been?” Hoshi asked her lover.

“I’m out, and I don’t think you’d believe how. I’ll send you the coordinates of where I am. Transporters, Hoshi! Something called transporters. I’ll fill you in when you get me. Babe, we’re going to make a fortune!” Archer sounded pleased.

“Good, I’ve been waiting to get off this god forsaken station. You know how long I’ve been stuck up here with this Brit? I can’t wait to see you again.”

*****************************************************************************

Late in the Evening Several Days Later in Enterprise’s Mess Hall

T’Pol quietly sipped at her tea while reading the latest report from Engineering. She did not glance up as she heard the doors swish open, she knew who it was. She heard a distinct southern accent order something and then the clink of china.

“Evenin’ T’Pol. Mind if I join ya?”

“Please.” T’Pol indicated he should sit. He had two mugs of some hot beverage in his hands.

“Though ya might enjoy this.” He said as he pulled his chair close to T’Pol’s. He lounged in the chair lazily as he often did when off-duty. His knee bumped against hers. She decided to allow the contact and made no move the reposition herself. Trip’s quirk of mouth let her know he noticed this.

T’Pol pulled the offered mug closer to her and peered over the rim. At her confused look, Trip, smiled, chuckled and spoke softly. “It’s hot chocolate.”

“What is the viscous white material floating on the top?”

“Those would be marshmallows.” Trying not to laugh, and noticing her hesitation, he said “Go ahead try it. Blow on first to cool it down, don’t want to burn your tongue now.” He said, lifting his own and blowing on it to show her.

He watched as she tentatively lifted the mug to her full lips, and peering at him over the rim, blew on the hot chocolate. Her eyes widened slightly and her mouth turned up the barest amount as she drank the chocolate treat. Perhaps this was the equivalent to a Vulcan smile, he thought to himself. She liked it.

Trip beamed a smile at her while he sipped his own. “Oops, ya got a little marshmallow there…” as he leaned over and gently removed the marshmallow on her lips with his thumb.

T’Pol sat back slightly at his touch. It seemed his gesture was purely unconscious, but after he had removed the offending marshmallow, he seemed to realize what he had done. His hand had frozen for the barest moment before he sucked the remnants into his own mouth. She decided to ignore it.

“Uh, Cap’n Archer approved Movie Night. Tomorrow’s the first showin’ at 2000 hours. Each week someone can pick a move they’d like to see. Tomorrow’s is ‘War of the Worlds’, made in 1953. It was based off a book by H.G. Wells.”

T’Pol remained silent while she sipped at her chocolate.

“I thought...uh, maybe…that…um…well….” Trip smiled and fidgeted, he ran his hand through his hair, mussing it up. He blew air out of his mouth. He smiled at her ruefully before continuing. Be direct, be specific he told me, he thought to himself.

“What, I’d like to say, to ask is, would you do me the honor of accompanying me as my date to the movie tomorrow?”

“This would be a romantic social encounter?” T’Pol asked him.

He stared at her blankly for several moments before answering, “Yes.”

“Since those are the circumstances, I accept.”

It seemed to take several more moments for the news to sink in. She watched him carefully as his face showed surprise, acceptance, and delight. His smile grew wider and wider. He started bobbing his head and pursing his lips. “Well, OK then. I’ll come by your quarters, say 10 minutes before the movie begins?”

“Agreed Mr. Tucker. I will even wear…something special.” This information seemed to amaze and delight him even more. T’Pol #18 had been correct, the simplest of things made him extraordinarily happy, she thought to herself.

“Somethin’ special, huh? Well, then Miss T’Pol of Vulcan,” Trip stood to leave, and gently picked up T’Pol’s hand. He slowly brought it to his lips and kissed the back of her hand gently. “I shall wear somethin’ special as well. Good night T’Pol.”

“Good night, Trip.” She had the pleasure of seeing him do a double-take and grin even wider. She waited until he left before she allowed herself to feel the tingle his kiss had induced and wiggled in her chair in pleasure and indulged in a smile. Yes, T’Pol #18 had indeed been correct, he was easy to please.

Unbeknownst to them, Captain Archer had witnessed the entire exchange. He had been shocked when T’Pol allowed Trip to touch her so intimately. He had almost spit out his tea when he saw T’Pol squirm in her chair like a schoolgirl after Trip left. He had nearly had apoplexy when he saw her smile. He had been tucked into a dark corner, enjoying the solitude when T’Pol had come in for her tea. He had been about to see if she wanted company when Trip had come in. Both had been behaving quite differently the last few days. They still bickered, but the tone had changed to more a friendly bantering. He wondered for the 100th time what Trip and T’Pol #18 had told his Trip and T’Pol. Archer #18 had warned him, sooner or later. It was inevitable.

Well, I guess it’s a whole lot sooner.

****************************************************************************

The End

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A whole mess of folks have made comments

Wow that was amazing. Yeah Trip and Tpol are inevitable. I only wish that that the IIC at trek hq thought so.

I loved this! Especially the multiple T/T relationship thing! The whole story reminded me of "Q-Squared", a novel by Peter David. That had the parallel universes as well. Excellent story, thank you! :)

Damn! - you must of needed a HUGE flowchart to keep all those Enterprises straight (I was glad you stopped at 18...I was gettin' a headache)
Great story. though - loved the humor - and the subtle differences in each universe as well as the "universal truths"

My head hurts! But in a good way. How you kept track is amazing, it was making me dizzy! Good work and nicely put together. Ali D :~)

I loved the doobie enterprise, this was awesome!!!

Actually it was pretty easy to track, I just put a matrix in an Excel spreadsheet.

Wow! That was amazing. What a different viewpoint on the MU thing.

Wow Good one!
Realy had to keep track of all the other T/Ts in this one. Just one thing,, I wish I would get to see what T'pol#7 looks like for myself.
Great to know that T/T will end up together in all MU accept for the one's where they never met or one of them got killed.

Good story, it is hard to keep track of all the Enterprises. Maybe you could psot your chart. I agree with Mitchell, wold like to see T'Pol #7, too. I guess it's a guy thing.

This was awesome! I nearly died laughing at Doobie Enterprise. I was expecting them to hail Admiral Chong...uber-kudos for such a great fic!

I took me three attempts before I could read this totally. I first got a headache, but after the third try, was able to figure everything out, 'cept for one thing: Why did Enterprise #1 and #11 have a hard time saying goodbye? What's the connection?

Wow!!!! This was complicated, but fun! Quite a different approach.

Loved the story!
I got confused a couple of times but in a good way!
The #4 crew kinda reminded me of the Nemo-turtles, Dude!
Just one thing: #8 The Imperial Reich's Battleship... it's kinda double... 'Reich' is'Empire' in English ;-)

OMG! This was GREAT! What a tangled web.... ;) Of course, the righteous crew of Enterprise #4, ever so exquisitely charred and toasted, were absolutely hysterical - most excellent! Glad everything worked out - Major kudos for keeping it all straight!

WOW!!!! I agree kinda confusing, but awesome. And like, Big Dude, really loved the rightous crew of the bong Enterprise.

I don't know how I missed this one... but I LOVED it!! Very interesting, in a very small way it reminded me of TNG when Worf is shifting through parallel universes and in the end there are 100's of Enterprises.

Very nice! I almost want a sequel on T/T of Enterprise #14 (I think I've got that number right). :-)

It's a very nice story, But I would have been nice if there was also a ship where Archer and T'pol a relationship had. It would make the story a bit more interesting. But I loved the story
Perhaps a sequel???????????

Why isn't there even one!!!!!! ship where Archer and T'pol have a relationship. Just look at season 1+ 2 there's a lot of sexual tension between them. It's a nice story but you could have at least one ship where Archer and T'pol are in a relationship. It would have made the story a bit more fun for every Enterprise fan

I actually know this. It came from around the late 1800’s, when policeman’s shields were made of copper.” Malcolm was pleased he could share this bit of trivia. “So, they were called coppers, and then it was shortened to cop. No doubt by the Americans.”

British police don't have badges. They did at one time have cheap copper buttons on their uniforms, however. They were known derisively as the Coppers because they weren't good enough for brass buttons.

I actually know this. It came from around the late 1800’s, when policeman’s shields were made of copper.” Malcolm was pleased he could share this bit of trivia. “So, they were called coppers, and then it was shortened to cop. No doubt by the Americans.”

British police don't have badges or shields. They did at one time have cheap copper buttons on their uniforms, however. They were known derisively as the Coppers because they weren't good enough for brass buttons.

well, i just discovered this fic, and let me tell you....it was soooo confusing but halarious and amazing at the same time! soo glad i found it.

well, i just discovered this fic, and let me tell you....it was soooo confusing but halarious and amazing at the same time! soo glad i found it.

well, i just discovered this fic, and let me tell you....it was soooo confusing but halarious and amazing at the same time! soo glad i found it.

well, i just discovered this fic, and let me tell you....it was soooo confusing but halarious and amazing at the same time! soo glad i found it.