Nothing Else Matters

Nothing Else Matters

by Kevin

Rating: PG-13 (language and adult situations)
Disclaimer: The characters mentioned within this text are the sole property of Paramount Studios, UPN, and Viacom. I intend no infringement.
Genre: Future AU
Summary: This is sequel to my story The Long and Winding Road. It consists of a set of scenes from various times in the lives of Trip and T’Pol. In order to understand some parts of it, you will also have to read my story, The Sehlat.

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So close no matter how far
Couldn't be much more from the heart
Forever trusting who we are
And nothing else matters

Never opened myself this way
Life is ours, we live it our way
All these words I don't just say
And nothing else matters

Trust I seek and I find in you
Every day for us something new
Open mind for a different view
And nothing else matters

-- “Nothing Else Matters” by Metallica

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August 16, 2242

T’Pol stared at the single item that adorned the main room of their home. Trip had given it to her the first Christmas after they were married.

It was a delicately framed poem, hand written by Sorel a thousand of years ago to his mate, T’Leetsya, after he killed her betrothed. She had selected him as her champion in the Kun-ut Kali-fi. The poem spoke of his pride at being her chosen and how he would always wear the scar from his near fatal wound as a badge of honor.

She remembered struggling to maintain her control as his emotions washed over her while she read it. He had invested considerable effort in finding authentic paper and learning archaic Vulcan calligraphy to make it by hand for her. The power of the words overwhelmed her and she had been unable to speak for several minutes once he presented it to her.

Researching and making the gift started a life-long friendship between Trip and Veron. Trip told her the experience began his life-long fascination with ancient Vulcan literature. His collection had become legendary.

As she thought more about the gift, she recognized just how appropriate it had been. She could not imagine anything more symbolic of the man she had known for ninety one years. She remembered how the weeks following that Christmas dealt Trip a near fatal blow. Years later he told her an old Earth story of the Phoenix and how the great bird emerged from the ashes. Reflecting on his life, she finally understood his intent.

“Mother, you have never told us anything about father prior to our childhood. Now that he has passed, we wish to understand better who he was so that we may better honor his memory.”

T’Pol looked into the eyes of her fourth daughter T’Zel. She simply wanted to understand her father better. She did not understand why her parents refused to speak of the time before her eldest sister was born.

T’Pol scanned the room to T’Liz, T’Les, T’Pau, T’Los and T’Mir. Their faces, too, reflected a desire to understand better the man who was their father. Only T’Mir’s twin sister, T’Pel, was not present. She had been lost to them four decades ago.

“Very well then.”

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January 21, 2155

Trip let out a deep breath. He wasn’t sure he was ready to face a large welcoming party. He reached out for T’Pol’s hand. She seemed at least as nervous as he was. But when the hatch doors opened, no one was there.

Trip’s shoulders slumped. He was pretty sure he knew what this meant. “This is bad,” was his simple statement.

“I do not understand what you mean.”

“It means the Captain is planning something for us. I’m not sure I’m ready for a large celebration right now.”

“Nor I.” She just wanted to retreat to their quarters. She knew he did too.

They walked through the corridors and saw no one. “This is really bad. He has everyone ready to greet us.”

However, no one greeted the couple. They had no way of knowing Captain Archer gave the order to clear a path and let the pair settle back in unharassed.

As they neared T’Pol’s quarters, now their quarters, they saw something on the floor in front of the door. When Trip got close he realized it was a door mat. It said, “The Tuckers”.

“What is that?” T’Pol had not seen anything like this before.

“It’s a welcome mat. It’s for people to wipe their feet before entering.”

“Why would they need to do that?”

“It is an old Earth custom. Basically it says this is where we live.”

“Oh.” T’Pol wiped her feet on the mat and entered their quarters. This custom is completely illogical.

Trip smiled to himself as he followed her into their new home.

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>January 22, 2155

“Everyone, if I may have your attention, please,” shouted Captain Archer as he banged a spoon against his mug. Eventually the mess hall quieted down enough so that everyone could hear.

“Thank you. I would like to welcome home Enterprise’s first couple, Commanders Charles and T’Pol Tucker. Let’s give them a round of applause to congratulate them!”

The whole mess hall erupted into applause with a few “Congratulations” and “Here Here’s thrown in for good measure. Trip partially stood up, waived to the crowd and said a few “Thank You’s. Archer was amused by T’Pol’s clearly being uncomfortable. For a Vulcan she did not hide it well.

After the noise died down again, he continued. “Second I want to dispel the rumors that the NX program has been canceled. I spoke with Admiral Gardner earlier and he has assured me the NX program has not been canceled. Also I understand your frustration at the news media blackout. I’m not happy about it either. But Starfleet felt it was important to shield us from what is going on back home. They don’t want it to distract us on our way back home. I wish I could tell you more, but I can’t.”

Archer hoped the celebration would take people’s minds off the problems back home. “Please enjoy the celebration! Welcome home Trip and T’Pol!” He knew that would be hopeless though. The rumor mill needed grist. With the gap left by Trip and T’Pol’s marriage, all that remained to feed it were the political problems at home and the recall of both Columbia and Enterprise.

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Archer looked over at Trip and T’Pol. The couple were surrounded by crewman from engineering talking and laughing. Even with unpleasant rumors running rampant, people appeared truly happy for them. There are days when I really hate my job. He seems so happy and I’m about to crush him. He sighed and walked over to Trip.

He slipped his hands over his friend’s shoulders. “Hi T’Pol, can I borrow your husband here for a bit. We need to talk about something.” He gave her a fake smile.

“Sure Captain. Does this mean you’ve got some good whiskey for me?” Trip returned with a genuine smile.

“Let’s go for a walk.”

“Sure thing. I will see you in a bit T’Pol.” Trip wanted to kiss her, but she was still having trouble with public displays of affection.

Trip started talking as they exited the mess hall. “You know Captain; I don’t think T’Pol would like you throwing me a bachelor party. But I guess we can just have a drink together.” He laughed and slapped his hand on Archer’s back.

“Trip, some things have changed back home. Starfleet has briefing material for you in your quarters. You need to go read it.” Archer paused and looked directly at his friend.

Trip stopped immediately. He was startled by Archer’s expression. It was filled with worry and a touch of sadness. “Trip, Starfleet has ordered me to give you their full briefing material including background data. I have read it all.” He paused to summon his courage. “I’m telling you as your friend, don’t read the background data. Just read the briefing summary and orders. Nothing more.”

“What the hell? What’s going on Captain? You never give me the ‘ominous voice’? What the hell happened while we were on Vulcan?”

“Trip, the reports from the missions to Vulcan and Andoria somehow leaked to the public. All of your mission logs, all of our reports, Soval’s reports, they all got out. Things have hit the fan at home. The public is going nuts about our involvement with internal Vulcan affairs. The Senate is holding hearings. They want to know why Enterprise was put in a dangerous situation between Andorians and Vulcans.”

It finally dawned on Trip what the briefing material must be. The Senate wants my hide for risking an NX-class ship. “But Captain…”

“Trip. Please just go to your quarters and read the briefing summary and orders. Nothing more.”

“Okay.”

“Thanks. If you want to talk after you read them, I will be in my ready room. Okay.”

“Sure thing.” Trip wondered if he was going to have a job after the arrived at Earth.

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T’Pol was not quite sure why the Captain had summoned her to his ready room. She guessed he wanted to get her and Trip together for a private celebration. But when she arrived and Trip was not there, she was confused.

“Captain, you asked to see me?”

“Yes, T’Pol, please have a seat.”

“T’Pol, Trip is in your quarters going through a Starfleet briefing. I wanted to talk to you before you saw him. Things have changed on Earth that will significantly affect our mission, assuming we even have one after our return.”

“I thought you just told the crew that the NX program has not been canceled.”

“It hasn’t been…” He paused. “Yet. Whether we will have a mission after arriving home remains to be seen. Things are looking like we won’t.”

“Captain, what happened while we were away? Neither Trip nor I paid attention to the news from Earth while on Vulcan.”

“Just before we returned to Vulcan, all of Enterprise’s mission reports and logs around the time the Kir’shara was discovered were leaked to the public. Very few people in the Senate had been allowed to see this level of detail. Our involvement with internal Vulcan affairs and endangering the crew of Enterprise to head off a conflict between Andoria and Vulcan hasn’t gone over well.”

“Does the public not understand how important Starfleet’s help was?”

“Yes, for Andoria and Vulcan. Not for Earth. Coming so soon after the Xindi threat, the public outcry has been deafening. Admiral Scalini expects the NX program to be canceled. There are many in the Senate who want to withdraw from non-human interactions completely. Some have demanded the Vulcans leave Earth immediately.”

T’Pol understood what the Captain was saying. “Starfleet no longer wishes to have a Vulcan officer. I will submit my resignation immediately.”

Archer was stunned. He shook his head. She had completely gotten his intent wrong. “Oh no, sorry T’Pol that is not what I meant at all. No one is asking for your resignation. Of course we may all be fired though.” He gave her another fake smile in an attempt to diffuse the situation.

“Captain, then I am not sure I understand the purpose of our conversation.”

“I’m sorry T’Pol, I guess I can’t delay any more.” He paused to look directly at her. “Trip’s mission logs have caused quite an uproar. His protecting the Syrrannites when it was clear Enterprise was outgunned and then getting involved in the conflict between Andoria and Vulcan are the main problem. There have been calls for his court-martial but so far Starfleet has backed him completely.”

“Will they charge him? Is Trip’s career in jeopardy?”

“No, I don’t think so. Well at least not any more than it already was. Plus it won’t matter. You know him. I already practically have to force him out of engineering. The problem is much, much worse and more serious than his career.”

“How so?”

“T’Pol, please understand, there were a lot of people on Earth who already hated Vulcans. They wanted your people off our planet from day one. The Xindi attack only made the xenophobia worse. Enterprise was blamed for bringing them. The latest uproar is just further evidence for them that Enterprise is doing nothing more than stirring up trouble and endangering humanity. The recent events all have one thing in common.”

“Trip.”

“Yes. He tried to protect the Syrrannites. He commanded the ship with Soval’s advice. He’s married a Vulcan. There are those who have labeled him a traitor to humanity. They want him out of Starfleet.”

“Oh.” T’Pol looked at the floor. Archer was sure he caught her eyes tearing up.

“T’Pol, it gets worse. Some of the most militant want him dead. There are credible death threats against him. Starfleet would prefer he remained aboard Enterprise while we are in orbit. His orders are to remain on board both for his safety and to keep the media away from him.”

“Where is he now?”

“He is in your quarters going over the material. Starfleet made me include the background material for his reading. T’Pol, it’s really bad. I need you to promise me that you will not let him go through this alone. No matter what he says or does. You also have to promise me that if our mission is cancelled, you will take him back to Vulcan. He’s not safe on Earth. Please promise me you will keep him safe.”

She looked at him with all of the confidence she could muster, “I promise. I will not allow any harm to come to him.” She paused and added, “Ever again.”

Archer started to tremble and tears welled up after she left. He looked down at the picture he refused to share with Trip. WNN delivered it to Starfleet the previous night. It was a picture of the three Enterprise command officers after their return from the Expanse. Through the middle was the writing “We will make an example of the traitor and his Vulcan whore.” Both Trip’s and T’Pol’s faces were scratched off. The lab confirmed the writing was human blood.

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A couple hours later Trip sat in the dark room of his old quarters. After his fight with T’Pol, he wanted to just run and hide. He was thinking about what the Captain told him and what he saw on the news. The protests about Starfleet’s interactions with other species shocked him. He simply could not understand why they didn’t recognize the importance of Enterprise’s work. The idea of withdrawing from space exploration and pretending other species didn’t exist made absolutely no sense.

What really ripped at his core was the label of traitor to his species and the death threats. He was simply unable grasp how his marriage to T’Pol could affect these people. They were a million miles away. Why did it matter to them that every morning he woke up next to the most beautiful woman in the universe and she just happened to be Vulcan.

He got that familiar tingling in the back of his head. She didn’t bother with the door chime. She just walked in and put a hand on his shoulder. She didn’t say anything. He reached up to put his hand on hers.

“I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to hurt you earlier.” He continued to stare out the port hole. “I was just so angry when you came in. I never meant to take it out on you. None of this is your fault. Please believe me.”

“I know.” She paused a bit. Still she did not quite understand why this had affected him so much. He did not seem afraid for his life at all. But yet he was clearly upset at the revelations contained in the briefing material. “How are you feeling?”

“I don’t know. Nothing makes sense.” She saw a tear roll down his cheek.

She had no idea what to do or say to make him feel better. She hoped that simply being with him would ease his pain. She felt an intense sadness from him. This was almost as bad as when he lost his sister.

He pulled her in front of him. She knew what he wanted. She sat in his lap and they held each other. She could feel his sadness being slowly replaced with warmth.

“I guess the Xindi destroyed Earth after all. They destroyed the Earth I knew.” She finally understood. She realized his belief in everything good about Earth was gone.

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January 27, 2155

Fleet Admiral Scalini surveyed Enterprise’s crew assembled before them in the mess hall. He had preferred to give the briefing at Starfleet command, but circumstances had precluded that.

“Welcome everyone. I want to confirm that the NX program has not been cancelled. While the mission has now changed, both Enterprise and Columbia are important to Starfleet. Always remember that in the coming months.” Scalini was not sure how the crew would react to their new mission. It was better than decommissioning though which appeared the most likely outcome until three days ago.

“I would also like to officially announce a change to the command structure. Commander T’Pol Tucker has been relieved of her Executive Officer duties but will remain as Enterprise’s Chief Science Officer. Commander Richard Meyers will take over as Executive Officer. I want to make clear that this change does not reflect in any way the service Commander T’Pol Tucker has performed as first officer. The change is solely due to her recent marriage to Commander Charles Tucker and the need to avoid any conflict of interest.”

“Later today Captain Archer and Commander Meyers will provide a detailed mission briefing but I wanted to provide an overview now and stress how important the change in direction is to Starfleet. Enterprise, as well as Columbia, will embark on a five year deep space mission with two goals in mind. The first goal, and the reason for continuing the NX program, is to study stellar phenomena. In the case of Enterprise, the primary focus will be on stellar remnants such as white dwarfs, neutron stars and stellar-sized black holes. The new instruments being installed will help gather data to be used by Earth’s astronomers and astrophysicists.”

“The second goal is to learn how to conduct deep space missions. I expect that eventually the current political climate will change and we will once again look to expand our reach. When that day comes, it is important for Starfleet to understand how to conduct extended missions. The goal for Enterprise is to not return to our solar system for the next five years. We will send supply ships to replenish stores and spare parts.” He expected the groans from his officers. If all went according to plan, they would not return to Earth for five years.

He paused to take a deep breath. “There is one other change that I cannot stress enough. It is a condition imposed by our civilian leaders in order to maintain NX program funding. Enterprise is not to interact with any other species unless absolutely necessary. And it is not to interfere with their internal affairs in any way. This has to be absolutely clear. You are to avoid all non-Starfleet contact where possible. Consider this your missions’ prime directive. Captain Archer will discuss this in more detail and answer any questions later today.”

“Dismissed everyone.”

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“Commanders, please, a moment of your time.”

Trip and T’Pol stopped exiting the mess hall and turned to Fleet Admiral Scalini.

“I wished to speak with you. I haven’t had a chance to since you returned. I have been pretty busy with planning the new missions and the senate hearings. It has been a nightmare.”

“Of course Admiral, what do you wish to discuss with us?”

“First off, let me congratulate the both of you on your marriage.”

“Thank you sir.”

“Second, Trip, you scared the hell out of all of us. You know I promised your dad I would look after you once he was gone. I was worried sick. The Vulcans wouldn’t give me any information. They just kept that same dour face and assured me they were doing their best. As if there was no reason for me to question them.”

“I’m sorry sir. But you know how Vulcans can get.” Trip pulled T’Pol close to him and smiled at her. She jabbed him in the ribs and he let out an “oomph.”

“Well the important thing is that you are fine and the two of you are together now.”

“T’Pol, I hope you understand my reasons for removing you as first officer on the Enterprise. I know both of you assured me there would be no problem. I just couldn’t have you second in command. I think it’s best to keep you equal rank. Besides I think you’ll have your hands full as Chief Science Officer. Obviously the mission will have a decided scientific focus. Having a dedicated Executive Officer will take some load off you.”

“Yes, Admiral. I understand the logic in your decision. I look forward to serving both Captain Archer and Commander Meyers.”

Scalini faced Trip with the most understanding face he could make. “Trip, I’m sorry about everything thing that’s happened. Some of the news reports tear my heart out. I can’t imagine what it must be like for you.”

“Thank you Admiral.”

“Trip, I’m deeply sorry for the order. I want you to understand the decision was mine alone. I had to do it for your own protection.”

Trip nodded. He understood the reasoning behind the order to keep him off Earth. But that didn’t mean he had to like it.

“Trip, we’ll get through this. We’ll figure out something. Hopefully this’ll all blow over soon.”

“Thank you Admiral. I just don’t see that happening.” Trip hung his head and walked away.

T’Pol remained and looked at Admiral Scalini. She saw the tears form in his eyes. “Please T’Pol take care of him for me. He’s like the son I never had. Help him get through this. I’ve done everything I can to protect him. But I can’t be there for him.”

“I will Admiral.” She turned to join Trip.

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April 17, 2156

“Well Commander, it seems you are in great health. In fact, you are healthier today than when you arrived under my care. You have gained about eight kilograms since we left Earth, but it appears to be all muscle mass and bone density. Your heart rate is down too.”

Dr. Phlox’s statement did not bring Trip any comfort. He was certain he could detect a hint of concern in the doctor’s voice.

“Are you sure Doc? You seemed concerned. Are you sure everything is all right?”

“No, it is nothing Commander. I am just curious about the reason. Your vital signs were pretty consistent through your career until about fifteen months ago. Since then you have been steadily getting stronger and healthier.” At this rate, I will be reduced to a medic dealing with his various bites, bruises and scratches. The doctor amused himself with the idea he might actually become bored on their mission.

Trip winced slightly when Phlox applied an ointment to a particularly deep scratch T’Pol gave him the night before. “Get yourself a Vulcan wife and you’ll understand.” He gave the doctor a quick smirk.

Yes, indeed. But Phlox still wondered whether Commander Tucker was preparing for Commander T’Pol’s first Pon’Farr consciously or subconsciously.

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October 29, 2159

Commander Meyers decided it was time to approach Trip directly. He had ducked Meyers request for the past two weeks. The Captain told him Trip worked out every day from 0600 to 0800 so he decided to catch him in the gym. When he arrived Trip was swinging himself on the still rings. He was in awe at Trip’s grace and strength as he moved through the routine. He never pictured the engineer as a gymnast. But three years ago Trip built and installed the pommel horse and still rings. He spent months taking lessons from Ensign Zalke on how to use them.

Trip performed his dismount and landed cleanly. He bent over to pick up a towel as Meyers walked over to him.

“Hey Trip, I would like to talk to you about something.”

Trip shook at the noise and turned his head. “You scared me.”

“I’m sorry Trip, I didn’t mean to.”

“That’s okay. I’m normally here by myself. I guess I just got used being alone and didn’t hear you come in.”

“I was hoping to find you here.”

“Well, I don’t think it’s any secret I’m always here from 0600 to 0800. I’m pretty sure everyone knows that now. Or at least all of the women do.” Trip chuckled slightly.

“I’m not sure what you mean. I didn’t know until the Captain told me. Why would the women know?” He hadn’t realized just how big Trip had become. He looked like an Olympic gymnast. Maybe they came to watch? I would imagine Trip is probably a major player in several of the female crew’s fantasies.

“You mean you never heard?”

“Nope. Normally at this time I’m briefing the Captain about the night shift.”

“It’s actually a pretty funny story. I can’t believe the Captain never told you. Let’s get on the treadmills. I have to finish up by 0800.”

“Sure.”

Both got on the treadmills. Trip started a reasonable jog as he began the story.

“So I wanted a workout that was more challenging than simply lifting weights and running. I was getting kind of bored doing that two hours a day. Harry and I were talking one day and he suggested gymnastics. He said it would help me build coordination and flexibility too. He said if I built the equipment, he would give me lessons. So we started and he was right. I hadn’t worked all of my muscle groups evenly. Those still rings were pretty hard at first.”

“I worked out early in the morning so I wouldn’t embarrass myself in front of a bunch of people. I guess it got around what we were doing. One day Lt. Hall showed up during my lessons. For about a week, she was on the treadmill by herself while I was here. Then a couple more women showed up. Probably within a month or so, better than half of the women not on duty were here. They were on the treadmills, doing yoga or aerobics.”

“It sounds like you were providing some incentive for our female crew to keep themselves in better shape.” Meyers couldn’t help but laugh at the image in his head.

“Yeah and they started asking Harry for lessons too. A couple of them asked if he could teach a class. Of course they insisted on it being in the morning around 0700 hours.”

“They really were that transparent?”

“Yep. It was kind of embarrassing but Harry was happy to teach them and I knew how much working out helped me. I figured it would be good for them too. I told him I would help him any way I could.”

“You mean T’Pol wasn’t pissed?”

“No, not at first. I think she just figured it was a convenient time for Harry and since I was here anyway I could help him out. Well one day she came in looking for Ensign Weathers to help her consolidate some data. T’Pol found out she was in the gym and came to ask her if she could start her shift early. I don’t think T’Pol was pleased one bit to find me and Harry working on my pommel horse routine with about ten women in the gym.”

“What did she do? I don’t remember her hurting anyone?” Meyers chuckled and Trip smiled back.

“No. She did something I’ll never forget. After I did my dismount she came right over to me and planted the most mind blowing kiss on me. Had our own little tongue war right there in front of everyone. I asked her why she did that. You know what she told me? ‘Because I could.’ That floored me.”

“Did they get the hint?”

“Nope. But the next day T’Pol came to the gym with me.”

“Hmm. I can’t imagine a Vulcan doing gymnastics.” I would’ve loved to seen that though.

“She didn’t. Every morning she worked the heavy bag practicing punching and kicking. She was getting a pretty good work out. She can land a pretty serious blow.”

“I’ve heard.” He remembered Reed’s report on the hand to hand combat training where he said he had to always pair up T’Pol with Trip because she had gotten to the point where she could throw everyone else around like a rag doll. No one wanted to spar with her anymore.

“The number of women showing up started to drop. One day there were just two women left. After warming up, T’Pol hit the bag so hard she split the leather covering and broke its mount. When the bag hit the floor, I thought the ladies were going drop a load. T’Pol was glaring right at them. No women have shown up since.”

Meyers laughed pretty hard at that one. “Ooohh, I wish I could have been there. That’s hilarious.”

“Yeah, Captain must have got wind of it because he made me promise to be out of the gym by 0800 every morning. He said he wanted to make sure T’Pol didn’t damage any more equipment.”

Meyers had a pretty tough time containing his laughter.

Trip paused to let him stop laughing. “You know, you said you wanted to talk to me about something. I can’t believe it was about some little dust up over two years ago.”

“That’s right Commander. That’s not what I came here to talk about. Have you given any thought to my request?”

“No sir. T’Pol and I haven’t discussed it. We aren’t sure what we’re going to do once we get back to Earth.”

“Well, I hope consider it. I would love to have both of you stay aboard and supervise the refit. We’re going to be in dock for six months upgrading the systems.”

“Thanks, I guess I was a bit surprised you asked us to stay. I figured after you took over for the Captain, you’d want to set up your own crew.”

Meyers stopped his treadmill dead. Where the hell did that come from? “What the hell are you talking about? Do you think I actually would want to replace either of you? You’re the best in your fields. I can’t imagine heading out again without you.”

“Well thanks, but I never got the impression you much liked either of us.”

“Why would you say that?”

“Well, within a few months after leaving Earth, you changed your shift to nights. I can’t remember you ever talking to me about anything but the most pressing engineering details since we started. Even then you mostly spoke with Hess. It just seemed like you were avoiding us.”

“You really think that?”

“Yeah, what else would I think?”

“Commander…Trip, you have it all wrong. I changed my shift because of… aaah… your evening ‘activities’. Your quarters are right next to mine. You were keeping me up. I couldn’t sleep.”

Trip blushed red. He had no idea. “Oh, I’m so sorry Commander. I…I…I never knew. I feel so bad.”

“Don’t worry about it Commander. It actually worked out just fine. The Captain almost never needs me during the day. Hess nearly always handled things for me. That’s why I relied on her for most things. I saw no reason to bug you in the middle of the night.”

“So Trip, will the two of you consider my offer? We’re going to be home in about three months and if I’m going to lose both my Chief Engineer and Chief Science Officer, I would like to start looking for replacements ASAP.”

“Sure. I’ll try to let you know as soon as I can.”

“Thanks.”

( It doesn’t sound like the Captain has told Meyers about us being transferred to Vulcan. )

( I heard. That is odd. I wonder why the Captain did not inform him. )

( I’ll see if I can find out. Maybe Starfleet doesn’t want its new design center to be common knowledge yet? )

( Possibly. Although withholding that information from the first officer is illogical. )

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February 24, 2161>

Trip was lying in bed nuzzling T’Pol’s neck and kissing her ear. She shuddered as his hands roamed. I think I’m going to talk to Malcolm about being on Pegasus tomorrow.

T’Pol stiffened and brushed his hands away from her. ( You most certainly are not. )

( Why not? I should be there. I should be there for the Warp 7 tests. )

T’Pol turned over onto her back and tilted her head to the right in order to face him. ( Because you have larger responsibilities now. ) She placed his hand over her swollen belly. ( I am not going to raise our daughter alone. )

Trip felt guilty at his selfishness. She is right.

( I am sorry, Trip. You have to realize our time for taking those risks is over. Malcolm will have a trained engineering staff. He will also have Sonek and Frank on board. We will be monitoring from the observatory. We have to let them do their jobs. We have to trust them. )

( I know. But we designed and engineered the engine. It is going to be hard to not be there. )

( I understand. I feel the same way. But we have staff and crew to do that. We have to think about our daughter. She will need both of us. )

Trip sighed. She was right. But that did not lessen his disappointment any.

( But I think I know what will take your mind off your disappointment. ) She shot him several images.

( Why is it you always bribe me with sex? )

( Because it always works. )

He laughed pretty hard at that. ( I think it is because you enjoy the bribes as much as I do. )

( That is irrelevant. )

The two disappeared under the sheets.

The next day’s Warp 7 tests aboard the Pegasus were a complete success. Admiral Archer joined Captains T’Pol and Charles Tucker in a celebration meal at their home. After the meal, the Archer and T’Pol lounged around the Vulcan equivalent of a living room. Trip was cleaning up in another room.

Archer smiled as he looked at T’Pol sprawled out on the most un-Vulcan piece of furniture he could imagine. “T’Pol is that actually a recliner?”

“Yes,” she replied. “Trip got it for me about three months ago. At first I found it odd, but now I understand why he got it. It is the only piece of furniture, other than our bed, that I can feel comfortable on.”

“You know, I still cannot believe you two moved to Vulcan. I never saw that coming. And how you got Starfleet to go along with it is beyond me.” Getting Starfleet to build a research facility on Vulcan seemed almost impossible.

“Admiral this is not a topic I wish to discuss.” Archer was shocked by her suddenly stern demeanor.

“I’m sorry, I did not mean to imply…”

“Admiral… Jonathan… I keep my promises.”

“Do you mean he is still…” Archer could not believe Trip’s safety on Earth was still in question.

She nodded to him. “Now please, we must end this line of discussion. I never shield my thoughts from him and he will grow suspicious of why I am doing so now.”

“Okay. I’m sorry.”

“I too am sorry for what has happened.”

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July 19, 2182

I guess I’m going to have to take matters into my own hands if I want to avoid another flare up like tonight. Erika will have my hide if she looses one of her Admirals days before she takes over. Fleet Admiral Zibare was pissed at the new Secretary Kenney for picking a fight with Admiral Tucker. He couldn’t believe a politician would be so stupid as to start an argument with a Starfleet Admiral in public. It was going to be all over the airwaves.

He recognized a good part of it was his fault. He still felt guilty over recommending the order to keep Admiral Tucker off Earth so many years ago. He gave the Admiral a lot more freedom than he should have in response. The Admiral, as well as Senator Tucker, had contributed a great deal to the Federation during their careers with Starfleet and he did not want to lose him over something as stupid as the design of his formal uniform or his public escort.

I should talk to him to see if I can get him to tone things down tomorrow morning. At least after that he will be back on his way to Vulcan. I can’t believe someone as narrow minded as Kenney would ever willingly leave Earth, let alone the solar system. How Secretary Kenney ever managed to be appointed the civilian head of Starfleet was beyond his comprehension. In the short time he knew the man, he couldn’t tell if Kenney was being rewarded or punished by the appointment.

“Jody, please patch me through to the Tuckers. I need to speak to the Admiral.”

“Aye, aye sir. I should have them momentarily Admiral.”

“Thanks. Just let me know. I will take it here.”

In a couple of minutes the panel buzzed indicating that she had patched him through. He pressed the button to put the connection through.

He saw Senator Tucker’s face instead of the Admiral’s. Although he had known her for years, he had never quite gotten used to her long hair. Every other Vulcan he knew used the same androgynous, utilitarian short hair cut. She wears it well though.

“Live long and prosper, Senator Tucker.”

“Peace and long life, Admiral Zibare.”

“May I speak to the Admiral?”

“He is on his way from engineering. He should be here shortly.”

“Engineering? What the hell is he doing there at this time of night?”

“He goes there to relax. He says the hum of a Warp engine relaxes him. His altercation with Secretary Kenney prevented him from meditating this evening.”

“I apologize for his behavior. Secretary Kenney is a difficult man to get along with.”

“There is no need for you to apologize. You did not appoint him to the office.”

“Thank you ma’am. Could you have Trip give me a buzz when he returns?”

“Yes, of course Admiral.”

“Thank you. Zibare out.”

Trip arrived at their quarters a bit later. His smell assaulted T’Pol’s nose as soon as he entered.

( What happened to you? You smell awful. )

( Sorry about that. I was helping clean out an injector assembly. )

( We have crew to do that. )

( I know, but I was annoyed and wanted to do something to take my mind off the pencil neck. )

( That ‘pencil neck’ is the civilian head of Starfleet. He deserves your respect. Your behavior was inappropriate this evening. )

( He picked that fight. I was just standing up for us. )

( You should have ignored his comments. He is not worth risking your career. Kofi is waiting for you. He wishes to speak with you. )

( What about? )

( He did not say, but I would assume about your behavior tonight. )

( Okay, thanks. )

It was about five minutes after Admiral Zibare ended his conversation with Senator Tucker that the panel buzzed again. He pressed the button to put the connection through.

“Good evening Admiral. Sorry about my appearance but I was in engineering cleaning an injector when you called.”

“Still the same old Trip, hunh?”

“Yes, sir. I will probably be doing this until they haul my dead body away.” Trip smiled at Zibare. “What can I do for you?”

“Trip, could you tone things down for me? Kenney was pretty pissed tonight and I don’t want to tell Erika that I lost one of her Admirals days before turning over the reigns.”

“I’m sorry about that. He just pissed me off. He had no right to say those things.”

“You’re right Trip, but look at it from his perspective. This was a public event for my retirement. Rumors were already flying around that it was on Jupiter station because you refused to come to Earth. You show up in a couple of pre-Federation Vulcan ships wearing Vulcan robes instead of a Starfleet issue Admiral’s formal uniform surrounded by your own Vulcan body guards. Kenney is old school and hasn’t quite wrapped his head around Starfleet not being a human sandbox we allow other races to play in from time to time.”

“That’s not fair and you know it. The ships and body guards are provided by Vulcan to protect my wife. They cooperated completely with Starfleet Security. And you approved my robes when Soren sent you his design. He felt it best for a Queen and her Consort to have matching dress when attending formal public events. It’s important to some Vulcans to maintain proper appearances.”

“I know. But do you have to flaunt it?”

“I’m not flaunting it. The Vulcans welcomed me and gave me a home when Earth turned its back. They’ve treated me as one of their own and I’m not going to do anything to offend them just because some piss ant Earth politician can’t get it through his head that Starfleet isn’t just a human organization.”

“I understand Trip. But could you at least not let him goad you into a fight tomorrow morning? After that you will each head your separate ways. I don’t want you doing anything that will get you fired.”

“I don’t care about getting fired. I’m close to mandatory retirement anyway. A few years won’t make much difference one way or the other.”

“Don’t talk like that. At least wait for Erika to get up to speed. After she gets settled in, then you two can discuss the future. But for now, I want to make sure her first days are a smooth as possible, understood.”

“Aye, aye sir.”

“Okay then. Good night Trip.”

“Good night Kofi. Thanks for everything.”

After the comm panel went blank he thought about Trip’s mention of mandatory retirement. It was sad that Starfleet would soon loose such a good engineer and teacher. Based on how well he was aging, Zibare thought Trip could easily be productive past 80 and possibly even close to 90. If Trip had been a bit more cooperative and less confrontational, he probably could have gotten an exception for him. But Trip had pissed off nearly every politician he came across. Trip’s absolute refusal to return to Earth made simply keeping him in place difficult. Breaking the rules for him would be impossible.

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April 24, 2185

“Ambassador, Fleet Admiral Hernandez will see you now.”

“Thank you Yeoman.”

Archer walked into his old friend’s office. “Hi Erika, how is the big chair suiting you?”

“Just fine. So you’re sure you want to head out to Vulcan for me?”

“No problem. I didn’t get a chance to visit the Tuckers last time. It’ll be nice to see them again.”

“Yeah, heaven knows he won’t come here.”

Archer laughed at her statement. “Yeah, we both know that won’t happen.”

“I’m too busy right now to head out there to see him. I came close to ordering him here. I’m getting tired of Starfleet always going to Vulcan for face to face meetings. Before I retire I’m going to get him out of his self-imposed exile.” Hernandez scowled at Archer. Admiral Tucker continued to be a thorn in her side for his refusal to return to Earth.

“Yeah, good luck with that. You know as well as I however, it was not self-imposed.”

“That was 30 years ago. His safety hasn’t been at risk for over 20 years.”

“You know how stubborn he is. He refuses to even set foot on this rock. The closest I ever got him was orbiting on either the Sehlat or the Narwhal. He still refused to transport down.”

“I can’t figure out why he keeps those Vulcan relics. I offered him a Nebula class starship. He wouldn’t take it.”

“Those ‘Vulcan relics’ are faster and better shielded than anything you can offer him. He insists they offer a beauty and symmetry not found in our new ships. He keeps their specs current. Probably better with his hand picked engineering staff.”

“I guess you’re right. But it is still embarrassing to have an Admiral traveling around in something so old.”

She decided to just drop it. Her predecessor had no more success with Admiral Tucker than she did.

“Anyway, do you know Rear Admiral David Hogan? He will head out there with you. He is leading our special projects division. He is a good guy.”

“I’ve never met him. But it’ll be nice to have someone to talk to on the way there.”

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May 12, 2185

T’Mir tended to the plants outside of her home. Although they were perfectly landscaped, she needed something to occupy her time. She did not want to be inside the house at this time.

A feeling of apprehension began as she heard the footsteps climbing the stairs to the entrance. As the two approached, the heavy breathing and smell coming from the two guests disclosed they were human. She wondered what might cause two humans to arrive unannounced. As the two drew closer, she recognized the scent for one of the pair.

She turned to greet them, “Live long and prosper, Ambassador Archer.”

He pulled back the hat that shielded his head, “Peace and long life, T’Mir. How did you know it was me?”

She hesitated a bit. Then Archer remembered. “I forgot,” he said as he tapped the side of his nose. “I imagine I must be pretty ripe by now.”

“Not at all Ambassador, all things considered. I have limited contact with humans so it is easy to remember the unique scent of each.”

The gentleman next to Archer gave a bit of a scowl. It appeared to her that he had not spent much time on Vulcan. He was still breathing hard and sweating.

“T’Mir, this is Rear Admiral Hogan. We have come to speak to your parents.”

“Greetings sir. My father has mentioned your name in the past.”

“I am pleased to meet you T’Mir. Are your parents inside?”

She hesitated. This was going to be delicate. “Yes, they are. But they are busy at the moment. Would you like to come inside to get out of the Suns?”

“Yes, I would thank you,” Hogan wanted to get out of the unbearable heat. How could Admiral Tucker have chosen this place over Earth? “I should have planned this trip better so that I came during the winter.”

Archer turned to his companion. “Admiral, this is winter. It is only 33 degrees.”

“This… is winter?” Hogan’s face displayed his astonishment.

“Gentleman, this way to the house.”

Admiral Hogan did not feel any cooler in the house. But at least he was out of the Suns.

“If you wish, I will bring you some water. I am certain you are thirsty after your journey.”

“Yes, thank you very much T’Mir. I have never been on Vulcan before and the heat and gravity are a bit much for this old man.” He gave her a thankful smile at her hospitality.

She left a pitcher of ice water and two glasses. She hesitated and sighed slightly. “My parents are busy…meditating…it should be a couple hours yet. If you wish, I could show you to our guest rooms where you can shower and refresh yourselves. I will bring you robes that will be cooler.”

Archer smiled to himself. “Meditating hunh? Is that what they are calling it now?”

“Yes,” T’Mir replied with a stone face, turned and left the two men.

Archer chuckled to himself. Hogan seemed deeply embarrassed.

She muttered to herself in Vulcan. ** “I see no reason they persist in using this euphemism. They know perfectly well I can hear what they are doing. Meditating. She does not make those sounds when meditating.” **

Later Archer and Hogan sat around the table. They did indeed feel much better after taking a shower and donning the robes. Both chose to remain in the robes T’Mir provided them. They were more comfortable than their own clothing.

“Gentleman, if you will excuse me. I will return to my gardening outside.”

“Yes, of course T’Mir. Thank you for your hospitality. I am sorry we have disturbed you.” Hogan seemed genuinely pleased at her help.

She bowed, turned and left the two.

Hogan turned to Archer and whispered, “so do you think they are…you know?”

“Probably. That would explain why she has not told them we are here. She has her mother’s hearing.”

A couple of hours later Trip joined them. T’Pol went to their garden to pick the fruits and vegetables for dinner.

“I apologize Ambassador, Admiral. My wife and I were…uuhh…”

“Meditating,” interrupted Archer.

“Yes, meditating.” Trip knew they had guessed their actual activity and turned red from embarrassment.

“Think nothing of it sir. It’s we who intruded.” Hogan chipped in.

“So what brought the two of you all the way out here unannounced? I don’t think you have ever been to Vulcan have you David?”

“No sir. But I would prefer to have Senator Tucker’s presence her also. The Federation has a request for both of you.”

“Don’t worry, she can hear you.”

“But she’s outside Admiral,” Hogan hesitated a bit. “Her hearing can’t be that good.”

Archer leaned over to him and pointed to his temple. “Remember what I told you about?”

“Aaah, yes. I am sorry Admiral I forgot about your link. Yes of course,” he briefly paused again. “So the reason why…”

Trip held up his hand, “excuse me for a second.” He switched to Vulcan. ** “T’Mir honey, if you would like to listen, taking a seat here with us would be more comfortable than standing in the hall. Of course if you wish to keep your distance from three smelly humans, you could join your mother. I’m sure she would inform you of the important details.” ** Trip gave a smirk at his colleagues.

** “Fine!” ** came his daughter’s outburst. It did not take Vulcan hearing to detect her storming off.

“I apologize. I believe my daughter is as curious as I am to find out what brought the two of you all this way. Please continue.”

“Trip, the Federation would like you to retire from Starfleet. We have a new assignment we would like for you and T’Pol to pursue.”

“What? Why Jon? I love the work we do. I don’t want to resign.”

“Sir, Starfleet really appreciates the accomplishments of the design team you and T’Pol head. Your engine designs gave us Warp 9.1 in 21 years. The work on improving shield strength has helped our ships keep pace with the threats we face. We could not have asked for anything more.”

“But now we are,” Archer interrupted Hogan. “Trip, we are nearing the limits to Warp travel. Instead of wasting your team’s talents on eking out the last bit of speed, the Federation and Starfleet want your team to focus their talents elsewhere.”

“Well okay, Jon, but we are all Starfleet. You don’t need to ask. And I don’t understand why you want me to retire only to work on something else for Starfleet?”

“Sir, if I may explain,” Hogan stepped in. “Starfleet would like your team to join a special projects organization doing highly classified research for the Federation. You and your team would need to resign their commissions so that we can get you off the books. We would give the team a cover story but you would be working secretly on another project.”

“What would be the cover story? And what would we be working on?”

“The cover story is that we would turn your facility into an engineering training center for TCT 9 engines. We would rotate chief and second engineers through here. We would like you to work on a way to make our ships less visible to sensors. Starfleet would like a way to hide from long range sensors altogether and to avoid automated weapons locks.”

“Let me discuss it with T’Pol. Please remain here while I help my wife prepare our meal.”

Admiral Hogan was clearly uncomfortable at dinner. Although the food was very good, it was consumed in total silence. Trip and T’Pol seemed to interact with unbelievable coordination. He thought it must be the bond because they did not say a single word to each other. The only hint at their communication was a series of facial gestures.

Trip cleared the table and was in the kitchen cleaning up.

T’Pol spoke to Archer and Hogan for the first time since greeting them before dinner. “Trip and I have discussed your idea thoroughly. It is logical for us to serve the Federation on this task. However membership on the team must remain voluntary. We will not force anyone to resign from Starfleet.”

“Yes, of course ma’am. I wouldn’t have it any other way. With your permission, we would like to speak to the team members individually tomorrow morning.”

She paused for a second. “You have our permission.”

“Thank you Senator.”

She continued. “If you wish, you are welcome to stay in our home for the remainder of your visit. We have guest rooms available.”

Archer bowed slightly to her. “Thank you T’Pol. I would love to. It will give me a chance to catch up. I’m so busy with politicians these days, I rarely get a chance to talk to anyone who does real work.”

They heard Trip laugh out loud from the other room.

Later that evening Archer and Hogan were sitting alone talking. Archer wondered if Trip and T’Pol were ‘meditating’ again.

“Ambassador, if I may ask you a personal question.”

“Sure what’s on your mind Admiral?”

“I am curious. The rumors don’t seem to do justice to them. Were they always like this?”

“Yeah, it does take some getting used to. I’m not sure which was more fascinating on our deep space mission. The scientific discoveries we made or watching their relationship develop.” Archer smiled wistfully.

“Do you know if they even speak to each other anymore? I have heard rumors they don’t.”

“I believe they talk all of the time. Just not verbally. They use their bond. By the end of our mission, they only used verbal communication when someone else was part of the conversation.”

“That must have been weird.”

“Yeah, it took some getting used to. Eventually though I realized the advantage of having my own private comm link to engineering. I could speak with Trip anywhere and anytime I was with T’Pol. It came in handy.”

“Yes, I imagine. I never thought of how efficient that would be.”

“For a while, I almost forgot Trip’s voice because we always spoke through T’Pol.” Archer laughed and clapped his hands together.

Admiral Hogan paused a moment before taking the conversation in a more personal direction.

“He also makes me jealous. He is at least five years older than me and I look like an old man next to him. And uuuhh, you know, his meditating, this afternoon. If my wife and I spent that much time together, we would be exhausted. Or dead, in this heat and gravity. But yet he seemed pretty spry at dinner.”

Archer smiled to himself. He too was jealous of Trip. On many levels.

“Do you know why sir or is that too personal?”

“No, they don’t talk about it much but as far as I know they don’t keep it a secret.”

“Keep what a secret?”

“The bond Trip formed with T’Pol seems to have slowed down his aging process. Long ago on Enterprise, it actually reversed it. He was stronger and healthier at the end of the deep space mission than when he started. Given their strict vegetarian diet and the constant dry heat on Vulcan, he is probably the healthiest sixty five year old man you will ever meet.”

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November 11, 2202

Rear Admiral Thomas hated this day. He was to give the eulogy at the memorial for crew members lost on HMS Hermes exactly one month ago. Seventy eight souls lost to an unknown disaster. He sighed and walked into the room to perform his duty.

When he had finished and gathered what he could of his composure, he spotted the two. They wore Vulcan robes and had not interacted with anyone. While he could not see their faces, he knew they must be Commander T’Pel Tucker’s parents. He decided not to intrude. I will let them grieve for her in their own way.

He could not have known they grieved for the loss of a second crew member too.

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January 18, 2242

The doctor walked both Trip and T’Pol through the detailed results of the scans.

“Mr. Tucker, we can provide you with synthetic transplants for your failing kidneys and liver. They could add as much as five years to your life. However, I must caution you that we can do nothing to stop the continued neural damage. The cells in your brain are decaying and there is nothing we can do to stop the loss at this time.”

“The decay appears to be accelerating rapidly. I would expect that within a few months, a year at the most, much of your higher order brain functions will be gone.”

The doctor looked intently at his patient. He decided to provide the best advice he could.

“Mr. Tucker, if I may, the process of your neural decay will be extremely unpleasant both to you and your family. There is almost no chance of a cure arriving in time. I would suggest talking over your options with your family and seriously consider not accepting the transplants. I can prescribe pain medication that will ensure your remaining time with your family is as pleasant as possible. But the human body simply was not meant to last much beyond 120 years.”

“You have had a remarkable life but you have reached the point where medical science can do little more for you sir.”

T’Pol looked at the doctor. “Thank you doctor. We would seek another opinion.”

Trip finally had enough of poking and prodding by the doctors. He loved his wife deeply but her stubborn refusal to face reality had become too much to bear. He was over 120 years old. His body and mind were worn out. It had been a good run but his race was nearly over.

( Enough! Not once in nearly eighty years I have I raised my voice to you. But… )

( You are not raising your voice to me now. In fact you have not spoken a single word. )

( You know what I mean! I am not going to argue semantics with you right now. The point is that all of the doctors, human, Vulcan and Denobulan all say the same thing. )

He stared deeply at her. He was fairly certain she knew this too. She was just too stubborn to admit it.

( I am dying. My liver and kidneys are failing. I will need synthetic transplants. But even that will not stop the neural tissue atrophy. Look at how often you have to remind me of things I should know. Look how I have to speak with our daughters. I cannot even carry out a simple conversation with them in Vulcan anymore. I have to speak with them in English. )

A single tear slid down his wife’s cheek. Her left hand trembled.

( We have to face the reality that I am going to leave you before this year is out. My choice is to die of organ failure or to leave you as my mind wastes away. I choose to die with dignity. I will not leave you with my body alive but my memory and control gone. I refuse to be that burden. )

He pulled her close to him. She embraced him as if she would never let go.

( It is illogical for you to feel remorse at my condition. The changes our bond created in my brain allowed me to live this long. It is not your fault I am dying now. If not for you, I would have died long ago. You cannot blame yourself for my disease. It is because of you that I could live this long with the mental faculties I do have. But eventually my body was going to wear out. You could not change that. )

( I know. I understood this day would come. I had just hoped to delay it a while longer. )

( It is going to take a while for me to die. The pain relievers will make it impossible for us to continue the bond. I will not take them. I want us to stay together until the end. If I lost the bond, I think I… )

He simply could not form the words. But she understood his intent. If he severed the bond, he might as well be dead. She would no longer be a part of his life in the same way as she had been the past eighty five years.

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August 15, 2242

T’Pol leaned over Trip. His breathing was shallow and his skin pale. His body racked with pain. Both knew his life would soon be over.

( Please T’Pol, you can release me. It will not be long now. I do not want you to suffer any more trying to relieve my pain. )

( I will not. ) The strain of relieving her husband’s pain took all of her effort. He refused the pain medications to ensure they could maintain the bond. She refused to allow him to suffer though it alone. He did not want that but could do nothing to stop her.

( You cannot prevent my death. I can tell it will not be long. You should not suffer. )

Another stab of pain hit Trip. She tried to absorb it but was beyond her limit.

Trip attempted to send her one last message through the bond. He could not. His mind was fading. He did the best he could. He whispered to her, “I love you.” He coughed once then wheezed slightly and his eyes went vacant.

“I love you too Trip.”

Trip’s six daughters meditating outside their parents’ room heard the scream followed by the wailing. T’Pol released her agony at his slow death over the past seven months.

They knew their father had left them. Their mother’s constant companion for over eighty five years was gone.

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August 17, 2242

T’Pol looked at the body of her beloved. This was his choice, not hers. He held a fascination for archaic Vulcan customs and rituals since before their marriage. She wanted him entombed as was custom. He had insisted on the funeral pyre when the time came.

It had come. She bent over to light the pyre. Soon it was ablaze with fire.

She recalled her thoughts from the prior day. She remembered his story of the Phoenix.

The End

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Authors Notes

I have included additional information that I think enhances the story but was awkward to fit into the dialog. I hope by fleshing out some of these details, you will better enjoy all three stories.

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Political Environment at the start of my story, "The Return Journey."

The record of events that took place in “The Forge,” “Awakening” and “Kir’shara” were known by only a handful of civilians prior to the mission logs and reports being leaked. That handful understood the importance of Enterprise’s work and how keeping peace meant keeping Earth secure. The details of the events were all classified and never released. At least until WNN received a copy of Trip’s mission logs from an anonymous source. They sued under the Freedom of Information Statute and received everything, including a copy of Soval’s report provided to Starfleet in support of Commander Charles Tucker’s actions.

Coming less than one year after the Xindi threat, the news media threw the public into mass hysteria. They had never seen this level of detail about any of Enterprise’s missions. Many saw it as just another example of Starfleet (and Enterprise in particular) putting Earth in jeopardy by involving humanity with other species’ problems. The politicians jumped on the bandwagon as an issue for the 2156 elections. Various parties used the issue to their advantage.

Given Trip’s actions while commanding the Enterprise and his later marriage to T’Pol, he of course became the obvious poster boy for the whole situation. He was everything from a traitor to a pariah to an example of what a Starfleet command officer should be. Basically he became nothing more than a symbol for a political cause. None of the parties paid attention to the complexities of Enterprise’s situation. As a result he became a target for militant xenophobic factions. They wanted to make an example out of him as a warning to others.

In a highly unusual move, on January 20, 2155 Starfleet ordered Commander Charles Tucker III to remain off Earth to ensure his safety. This order was driven by three factors. One was true concern for his safety. There were multiple, credible threats against him and Starfleet security was unable to determine the source. The second was Vulcan’s concern for both Trip’s and T’Pol’s safety. Head Councilor T’Pau made it perfectly clear to Earth’s civilian government that any harm that came to either a Vulcan Queen or her Consort while on Earth would have disastrous consequences. The third reason was that by keeping him off Earth, but in Starfleet, they could restrict media access and thereby control the stories more than if the media had access to him. By keeping him on Enterprise, his activities were always ‘classified’ and therefore access was always denied.

Fleet Admiral Scalini’s original intent was to have the order only active for the few weeks it took to prepare Enterprise for its deep space mission. As the investigation progressed though, the head of Starfleet Security, Rear Admiral Kofi Zibare, reported evidence that Starfleet itself had been penetrated by the xenophobic terrorists. Two terrorist cells were captured with Starfleet issue equipment, documentation and reports. After that, no further cells could be penetrated. Zibare reported personally to Scalini he felt members of Starfleet Security were cooperating with the terrorists due to their lack of success. Zibare believed it would be impossible to ensure Commander Charles Tucker’s and Commander T’Pol Tucker’s safety. Scalini agreed with Zibare’s recommendation and made the order permanent.

The source for the threats against the pair was never discovered. Anonymous demands for Trip’s return to Earth and his ‘trial for crimes against humanity’ continued periodically until the spring of 2163. A large matter/anti-matter explosion in Alberta, Canada destroyed a suspected terrorist compound on June 3, 2163. No subsequent threats were ever received so it was assumed they originated there. The order was rescinded on January 20, 2165.

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Ships in “The Sehlat” and “The Return Journey”

HMS Hermes: This ship was a scientific and exploration vessel named after the first purpose built aircraft carrier. It was lost on October 11, 2202 when a micro singularity passed through engineering and destroyed the anti-matter containment field. All hands were lost. Both T’Pel and Kevin were killed. T’Pel never chose a mate and never had any children.

Sehlat and Narwhal: These are Surak class ships provided to the Vulcan Royal Family for transport. Since only Trip and T’Pol do significant travel, the Vulcan high council allowed them to upgrade the ships’ engines and defensive systems. The crew is hand picked and fiercely loyal to the royal family. In order to provide better security, both ships remain together and which ship is carrying members of the royal family is never disclosed.

T’Pol named the Sehlat after the wild version and not the domestic version. Trip named the Narwhal after the USS Narwhal, a unique sub that helped lead to the Los Angeles and Ohio classes. The USS Narwhal was named after a rarely seen Arctic whale.

Being meant for diplomatic transport, they were very fast and very heavily shielded. Trip and T’Pol sacrificed phase cannon output for speed and protection. However both were equipped with state of the art, as well as advanced prototype, photon torpedoes. Without them, the two ships could not have collapsed a Klingon Battle Cruiser’s shields. Their phasers simply weren’t powerful enough.

USS Pegasus: This name is applied to Starfleet’s new technologies test platform. Access to the ship is restricted on a need to know basis only. At the time of The Sehlat, she did not have the advanced prototype torpedoes, so the outcome of the battle was not set if she arrived alone. However, by good fortune, she was on her way to rendezvous with the Sehlat and Narwhal in order to pick up six prototypes and the instructions to convert her existing inventory to the new prototypes.

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Additional Facts about Trip’s Life

Trip eventually has 26 granddaughters. No sons, no grandsons.

Trip and T’Pol design Starfleet’s first Warp 6 capable engine while on their deep space mission. They design Starfleet’s Warp 7, 8 and 9 capable engines while on Vulcan. They also improve shield strength generated by the Warp 8 and 9 engines. Members of their design team develop high yield photon torpedoes. The team had only marginal success at reducing the sensor signature of Starfleet’s ships.

Veron was not only Trip’s personal physician but became his best friend outside of T’Pol. Veron introduced Trip to Vulcan history during his recovery and soon he shared Veron’s interest. The two frequently visited the most ancient ruins and temples on Vulcan and her colonies. Veron (with T’Pol’s help of course), taught Trip both current Vulcan and the archaic form.

Trip took great pride in eventually learning to speak Vulcan without an accent as well as any native speaker. That was why it was so painful to revert to English in the last year of his life. But his brain deteriorated to the point where he wasn’t able to translate any longer.

Trip took T’Pel’s death especially hard. He struggled with depression over her loss. He was able to cope with her loss by becoming the first human Syrrannite. This fact was not known by more than a handful of people until after T’Pol’s death. She included it in her memoirs.

After Trip’s death, T’Pol was able to have a small room of a local library named in honor of both Veron and Trip. It was filled with ancient literature that the Veron and Trip had collected over their lifetimes.

Trip never set foot on Earth again after May 18, 2154.

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Additional Facts about T’Pol’s Life

While studying stellar remnants on their deep space mission, T’Pol developed a method for searching out stellar mass, and lighter, singularities that became a standard for 75 years. T’Pel Tucker was aboard the HMS Hermes perfecting the method for micro singularities until the time of the ship’s destruction.

T’Pol abandoned her work on Warp engines when Trip retired. While she never abandoned her work on singularities, T’Pol pursued politics and became a Vulcan Senator and later a Councilor.

T’Pol found her husband’s obsession with ancient Vulcan artifacts odd but supported his interest. She appreciated Veron getting him out of the house and involved in something other than his engines and his daughters.

T’Pol took T’Pel’s death very hard because she saw how it affected Trip. She too became a Syrrannite when she saw how important it was to him.

As T’Pol neared death, she informed T’Liz of her desire to have her body burned in a pyre. She absolutely refused to have her body entombed alone.

After T’Pol’s death, T’Liz ensured that her mother’s memoirs were published. “My Life with a Human” was mostly a historical curiosity and released into the public domain.

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A whole mess of folks have made comments

AAAAH you are so evil! Fanfic NEVER makes me cry, and now I am sitting here like a gibbering wreck! That was soo good, really, I really love the whole Trip becomes an honorary vulcan thing, and just WOW all of it ruled! Congrats congrats congrats!!!!!!!!!

I'm wailing like a little baby

That was wonderful. I almost started crying. That was great, just great. Good job.

Good story but oh so sad and I felt pretty annoyed at Starfleet for their treatment of Trip yet still wanting to hang on to his expertise for their own ends. Love the bond between Trip and T'Pol and the way that T'Pol would not take any pain medication either so that she could maintain their link until he had passed away. Very sad but a jolly good story. Ali D :~)

That was a great snapshot into the potential future of Trip and T'Pol. Well done.

"Meditating", indeed. LOL!

6 kids? Oh, they were busy little bunnies!

Kevin, you impress me!

That was really good. I've enjoyed reading this series. I will keep an eye out for any of your future works.

*sob* I loved this fic, but am sending you the bill for the tissues.

Awesome, a very touching story! :)

Quite enjoyable; it made me cry.