Chapter Five: Rescue from Durance Vile

Focus: Jon and TnT, duh.

Summary: It’s time for Admirals to start acting like Admirals, and get out of the way. Jon joins the effort. Thanks to Putaro and Kotik for advice and consent.

Disclaimer (necessary): Star Trek: Enterprise and its characters are copyright CBS/Paramount. No copyright infringement is intended by the author of this story, which is solely for the purpose of entertainment and is not for profit.

DISCLAIMER (additional): see chapter 1

In the hours it had taken to analyze the second message from the buoy now referred to as BA (short for Benedict Arnold, Lt. Commander Reed had insisted he had been a great patriot although tongue in cheek), a third message had been intercepted by Enterprise and forwarded. Admiral Yamashita wished he could just hand the entire problem over to Harris but had decided not to completely open that door. He suspected that the Coalition members had similar clandestine operatives, but the key word was clandestine. He couldn’t “out” Harris. It was also plain that messages two and three had nothing to do with Jupiter Station; the second had been composed of minor comm traffic at Starfleet Headquarters, quickly shut down and replaced with dummy info, and the third a week’s worth of activity photos from Earth’s orbiting space dock.

Senko had finally been able to return to his office having agreed to let one more weeks worth of unadulterated Jupiter Station activity be broadcast. Further, he had ordered his “Hack” team off the Station to pursue the other incursions. He had been surprised that Admiral Gral had been so successful in persuading the Coalition members to pledge ships and personnel to the information chase even convincing Soval. Even more surprising the Vulcans had committed one of their combat cruisers to relieve the Dinesh, freeing her up just in case the chase continued. Senko had a worrisome feeling that there was real trouble at the Cheron Relay station (if that’s what it was and not a Romulan Base). It was in a prime spot to receive intelligence from all over the Coalition’s portion of the quadrant. Enterprise had been able to send plenty of visuals of BA and Harris had been ordered to quietly get some answers. His comm rang. “Admiral Black wants you back in his office, sir,” his aide said. Senko closed the comm and sighed. He then rose, straightened his tunic and marched out his door.

“What can I do for you, Hiram?” asked Senko as he walked into the otherwise empty office.

After motioning him towards a chair Black answered. “Senko, I feel like that Dutch kid with his finger in the dike except all my fingers and toes are committed. I just need to blow off some steam and you’re elected.” Hiram leaned back in his chair. “We need to do so many things and none of ‘em involve peaceful exploration. I am only now coming to grips with all the damage Gardner did. We ain’t lean or mean, we are bloated and listless. Where do I find my new crop of leaders? I need a new Chief of Ops, but whom? Yuri Zhadov had to have had some understanding of what was going on at Jupiter Station, should I trust him? I really don’t know all these people as well as I should. Most of the blame falls on me though. How did Gardner fool me?”

“Hiram?” began Senko. “None of us really understood how many irons Forrest had in the fire. Don’t blame yourself. If you want my opinion, Zhadov is a fine officer as is Reintz. What you need to do is define the new mission. Make Yuri your Chief of Ops and let him run with it. You made Archer your chief diplomat, get out of his way, he should be handling BA. You, my friend, are trying to do too much. If you don’t like what they are doing, fire ‘em. Better to find out before the shooting starts.

Black looked hard at Senko then broke into a smile. “My meetings with Hernandez and Buonavita were illuminating. They had misgivings about far too many officers. I think mostly because with so few opportunities we just don’t know who can do what. I think we worry too much about failing, and yes I partially blame the Vulcans, but mostly the bureaucracy we created in response to the Vulcans. If we assume there is a war coming then we can’t remain overly cautious. We will lose people and ships, which means lots of inexperienced people will be in over their heads. Like you said before, better to find out before the shooting starts. I guess its time to talk to the Tuckers, I need ships.”

“Don’t you mean Captain T’Pol?”

“Nope, they’re a pair. She’s in charge at Jupiter Station no question, but he’s gonna build our fleet. Jon Archer proved to be a good captain, but if Trip Tucker hadn’t been there to keep finding ways to keep Enterprise flying…we wouldn’t be here. I need the Tuckers to start thinking how to produce ships faster. Then I need Reintz to get those ships staffed. I need you to get to the bottom of our current security leaks. I’ll brief Archer in on BA. Thanks for your vote of confidence on Zhadov.”

“Charles, Admiral Black is coming to the station tomorrow. He wants to meet with us both.” Trip stiffened slightly but T’Pol quickly adjusted her pressure point and he returned to jello. He was lying on his face on their brand new neuro-pressure mat. T’Pol had shown him a Vulcan catalog and they had chosen a few items. He had also been amazed at some of the neuropressure posture support devices that appeared more like trapezes to him.

“Did he give any reason?” he gurgled, trying unsuccessfully to stop drooling.

“A status review. He requested that only you and I be in attendance. Charles, if this were Vulcan there would be no logical reason to have any apprehension, yet I feel slightly… anxious.”

“Given that we have no idea what he wants, honey, there’s no reason to be concerned. Besides this command is directly under him so odds are the boss is just checking up on us. Your turn.” They changed positions and he began working on the small bit of tension he had detected through the bond. “Maybe he has an update on BA.”

0820 Admiral Black, Commander Matthews, Trip and T’Pol were seated in 8-3. Maria had placed coffee and tea, while Chef had provided some bagels and donuts. Trip decided he would weather the eyebrows of disappointment and grabbed a peanut coated donut and a large black coffee.

Black began, “When does Challenger start trials, Captain?”

“She will be ready.” Trip smiled, it had taken T’Pol a long time to start calling ships ‘she’, “1 July 2155, Admiral.” She slid a PADD across the table. “Assuming the sub-assemblies are delivered on time, we will have crew quarters for forty ready on the station thirty days in advance for familiarization with Challenger and the station. We suggest fifteen days of trials here and then the Challenger will relocate to Earth Space Dock for provisioning and crew assignment. We can begin assembly of NX-04 Triomphante immediately thereafter. The first saucer section components are scheduled for delivery 31 July 2155.”

“Are you sure Captain? You haven’t fully ramped up construction.”

Trip started to support his mate when he heard clearly through the bond, Be still Ashayam. “We have made numerous changes to the construction sequence and we will be working two shifts.”

“Admiral, this facility is being changed from a fabrication workshop to an assembly facility which more closely resembles the contracts agreed to by our suppliers. Commanders Tucker, Kelby and Hess or their designees will be enforcing the final approval paragraphs of Starfleet specifications on our contractor’s sites. We will no longer accept incomplete work.”

She slid a PADD across the table. “Our analysis of the receivers for NX-01 and -02 indicate that standard was not enforced. I make no judgments on those decisions, I do intend to insist that our contracted specifications be met hereafter.”

Trip was about to burst and began to subtly alter his breathing so as not to project too many of his emotions onto T’Pol. She was kickin’ ass and takin’ names. He did sneak a glance at his wife and saw a slight green tinge at the peaks of her ears. He was watching the blooming of the rose in her and was awed by it, his very own Vulcan Rose tinged green and pointy eared. She was incredible, polite, deferential and humble, yet dedicated and certainly in charge. He refocused on his breathing lest he knock her off stride.

T’Pol continued. “I do request additional Starfleet personnel be made available for on-site inspections,” another PADD headed towards the admiral who neatly deflected it to Matthews. “They are to be Jupiter Station personnel, who will take over the NX construction program as we transition to the Gideon ships.” She paused and turned her head, ”Commander Tucker.”

Trip spoke up. “Admiral, I ask that you consider turning the NX program hull over to the Tellarites. Their metallurgical science is superior to ours. I understand that it will cause conflicts with our suppliers on earth.” He paused. “Our engines are better as are our nacelles. Maybe they would consider helping us. I know their ships can handle a great deal more punishment than ours. If we can add shielding technology to a Tellarite hull sir, we’d have a space tank. A space tank Ashayam?  Trip realized what he’d said and smiled. Tell ya later babe.

Trip watched as Black sat back in his seat and then leaned forward and selected a chocolate covered donut. “Captain, when can you start assembly of the Gideon Class ships?” He looked squarely at Trip. “Class name approved, by the way.”

T’Pol responded. “Uncertain sir. We have not received final design drawings from any of the Coalition partners. Assuming there have been only minor changes we will be able moor a hull in four weeks.”

“Captain, I need you to get that prototype built ASAP. If it is to be our ship then I fear we will need a bunch of them. I need you Commander,” he turned his head towards T’Pol “excuse me Captain,” then back to Tucker, “to figure out how to shave time off of the production schedule. I want at least three by Christmas and twenty next year.”

Trip fell back in his chair, his tongue stretching his cheek and his mind obviously at high warp.

“Captain.”

“Yes, Admiral?”

“I think I would like to tour your facility. It appears Commander Tucker has a lot to think about.”

They were standing at the entrance to the Goat Locker when SCPO Litlitvinowitz magically appeared. T’Pol’s raised eyebrow caused Admiral Black to burst out laughing. “I believe we have been under observation Captain.” Her other eyebrow joined the first.

“How ya been, Chief?” asked Black affectionately and the two exchanged a firm handshake. “The Chief and I have an extended history of mutual service, Captain.” Following which SCPO Litlitvinowitz appeared to be having difficulty with his own decorum. T’Pol was now unsettled.

“Would you care to inspect our quarters, Admiral?”

“I dare not refuse. With your permission, Captain?”

She heard Trip through the bond. You're not invited honey. Let ‘em go. “Will you join me for lunch in the mess, Admiral, 1200 hours?”

“Thank you, Captain.”

She returned to her office not entirely certain what had taken place. She determined to ask Trip later that evening. Trip had suggested that a Human behavior class should be held in their quarters as the explanations tended to be long and convoluted. She set aside the thoughts. Trip, can you join me in my office? He popped through the door moments later, his tongue pressing hard against his cheek. He looked at her and tilted his head, his own eyebrows elevating slightly.

“Commander, have you determined how to achieve the Admiral’s goals of ship production?”

Trip pointed to a chair and she nodded. Trip plopped into it and began, “We can build ‘em that fast, if that’s what you mean. I just don’t know if all the technologies are gonna work together. Look, the engine works, it’s a standard Vulcan design. We also know that while the Andorian hull is a prototype, you can bet the Tellarites will make it a structural marvel. I’m certain the Andorian nacelles work, this design is in service on other Andorian ships.

It’s the controls that I’m concerned about. I just don’t know how well the engine and the nacelles will mesh. The only thing I can think of is to get the Vulcan engineers here for their simulations so we can review them. I would like to have the Andorians on station as well, but that might get frisky.

“Commander, perhaps we should get Commodore Archer involved. It appears to be a diplomatic situation, does it not?”

“Can’t see how to avoid it. Probably best to get him up to speed early.”

“Thank you, Commander, please join me in the mess at 1200 hours.” She sent a burst of affection through the bond and felt him reciprocate. It was “business” hours, and they had agreed to keep things formal during the day. She also knew her ears were tinged green with her adun this close. Trip extended his fingers in an ozh’esta. She felt the pads of his fingertips, and smiled deeply. My love, I think you have time to meditate, I suggest you take the opportunity, or I will claim husband prerogative and make it an order.

She watched him leave her office, ogling just a little. T’Pol knew he would never usurp her authority, but would remain constantly vigilant of her emotional state. He also looked nice. She began to imagine running her hands… I am not sensing you in a meditative trance, came clearly through the bond. She quickly corralled her emotions and centered herself. She then shielded some of her other thoughts and did some after hours planning. She had ordered a few things he didn’t know about from her catalog.

Jon entered Black’s office as ordered. Columbia had dropped him off and headed off towards the former Expanse to track down the Illyrians and offer reparations. He had wanted the mission himself, but had been told no. He had also been told to get the hell off of Columbia before they became a target. He had been assigned quarters at Starfleet HQ where Porthos wasn’t exactly welcome although Rank Has Its Privileges. Lieutenant Undofa, a young up and comer apparently, had been assigned as his aide, wonderful, because he didn’t have anything for him to do either. His mission was out amongst the stars and he hadn’t been able to hitch a ride anywhere. Erica had laughed out loud when he suggested he organize their coming nuptials, ignoring all his protestations and merely giving him a kiss and the address of the tuxedo shop. Along with a couple of invitations for the Tucker’s and Malcolm he was under orders to deliver.

“Sit down Commodore. I’ve got a job for you,” said Black. “I want you to go see Captain T’Pol over on Jupiter Station. She has need of your diplomatic assistance.” Black paused and looked hard at him. “I have been reluctant to send you over there, Jon. You were her commanding officer for four years, but the station is hers. You outrank her, but have no, I repeat no, authority there. I want that clear in your head. Understood?”

“Yes, Admiral.” Jon stiffened; this had come out of the blue.

“Commodore, there are a lot of your former crew there and soon, hopefully, members of the Coalition will be in residence. Tread very carefully. She is to have no knowledge of this conversation; it is up to you to restrain yourself. Be advised she works directly for me in the chain of command.” Then Black’s face took on a conspiratorial look. “I will not object if a qualified test pilot helps the Gideon program, especially if I find out after the fact.” Black was smiling now.

Black slid PADD across the table. “Jon, this is the complete dossier on the security incursion on the station. I haven’t kept you informed; that was a mistake. It’s now Admiral Yamashita’s problem, and it is classified. You will want to have Captain T’Pol fill in any blanks, she’s aware that you have been cleared. Hereafter I need you to handle the diplomatic fallout, Yamashita knows you will be involved. Keep me posted.”

Jon left the office not quite understanding why he had received the warning. He was excited that he could quietly volunteer to fly the new ship, Gideon Class, Black had said. He didn’t understand the biblical analogy but whatever. He went back to pondering. He wondered what T’Pol needed as he headed back to his office in the embassy.

“Captain, I understand you’re looking for me?” said Jon as T’Pol’s face appeared on the monitor.

“Yes Commodore. When can you come to Jupiter Station?”

“I have no pressing duties for the next few days, I just need a lift,” said Jon forcing a strained smile.

“One moment.” T’Pol blinked out momentarily, before returning. “Our shuttle can be at the Star Fleet HQ in an hour. I recommend you bring an overnight bag, however we can return you at any time.”

“Then I will be there shortly, Captain. I look forward to seeing you and Trip.” And he signed off. Damn, he had forgotten to ask if Porthos could join him as he planned on staying on the station overnight. Well, Undofa drew the short straw. He was feeling sorry for himself and knew it, but it didn’t ease his dislike of begging a ride. He had been captain of the Enterprise, traversing the galaxy, able to order the ship and crew as he saw fit. Now he had to call a cab to get to the other end of Earth’s solar system. He returned to his quarters and packed a bag. He decided to toss in a bottle of bourbon.

He was still grumbling to himself when Jupiter 1 showed up and Malcolm bounced out, saluted (they were outdoors) and shook his hand. “Good to see you sir. I’ll take your kit,” reaching for it.

“Great to see you, Commander. How’s the new job?”

“Quite the challenge, sir. Still trying to get my footing. After you, sir.” The shuttle was quickly airborne and Malcolm turned to his former captain. “Have you read the PADD that Admiral Black gave you sir?”

Jon was quite taken aback. “No, how did you know…” trailed off as Malcolm looked at him knowingly. “I take it I had best read it now?” Malcolm nodded. They landed at Jupiter Station before Jon finished. He had not looked up from the PADD until the shuttle bay doors had closed behind him.

“Sir, Admiral Yamashita asked me to relieve you of the PADD. I can make all of the information available to you by other means.” Jon handed him the PADD. They exited the shuttle bay to a receiving party consisting of T’Pol and Trip. “Welcome to Jupiter Station, Commodore.” He noted that T’Pol looked better than he ever remembered. She stood upright and assured, yet radiated warmth toward him.

“It’s good to be here Captain, Commander. Thanks for the invite. I assume we have much to discuss.”

“Yes Commodore, please follow me.” A quartermaster snatched up Jon’s baggage and disappeared. “Your gear will be placed in quarters 6-34.”

Trip chimed in with a smile. “I got a map for ya.”

Jon, Trip, Malcolm and T’Pol were gathered in 8-3. “Commodore Archer, in order to meet Admiral Black’s production goals we are going to need Vulcan, Andorian and Tellarite engineers on station. Commander Tucker will explain his requirements.

“Commodore, we gotta get the prototype rolling. Based on all the drawings and specifications we’ve seen, we can build it. All the individual components work, in fact most of the components are solid technologies that have long track records. What I am concerned about is the relationship between the Vulcan engine and the Andorian nacelles. Currently their engineers are collaborating, but on their home planets and over sub-space. Sir, we need them here so we can integrate their simulations.”

“I see, but why the Tellarites?”

Trip continued, “Their modifications to the original Andorian hull design are based on performance assumptions. We also made S.W.A.G.s (a standard engineering term meaning specialized wild ass guesses) on power distribution, shield generator locations, and weapons power requirements. I’d feel a whole lot better if they were here.”

Jon sat back in his seat and said. “Commander Reed, do you have a brig?”

“No, but we can build one.” Malcolm said smiling.

“I’m pretty sure I can get them here, can I assume you mean right now?”

“Yes Commodore.” T’Pol replied. “We need a functional prototype for trials in four months.”

Jon gaped at T’Pol, then Trip. “Four months?” She nodded. “Do you have names?”

“Not really, our communications have all been through their project leaders.” Trip slid a PADD to Jon. ”These are all our notes and messages. We need the folks who are doing the work. I am guessing about four or five from each of the Coalition partners. We will have room for up to twenty of each species.”

Jon smiled “Looks like I’ve got a lot of work to do.”

Malcolm looked at T’Pol who nodded faintly. “Commodore. We have a ticklish security situation.” Jon nodded. “The NX program is common knowledge. Not a calamity, but knowing there have been multiple incursions is disturbing. We’d like to keep the Gideon program out of sight. We have to be careful with outgoing communications for the time being. Did you bring your diplomatic ciphers with you?”

Jon nodded.

“We must maintain current comm traffic until we have contained the breach. We want to keep the Gideon traffic to a minimum and tight-beam only. One possibility is to route all comms to Starfleet command and broadcast from there. It would hopefully look like nothing more than increased diplomatic chatter. It also will help if we do not have to broadcast much Gideon traffic off the station at all, hence bringing the Coalition engineers here.”

Jon’s head was spinning now. T’Pol took over. “Commodore it may be logical for you to move onto the station.”

 Jupiter Aligns for Mars

Chapter 5: Rescue from Durance Vile

By Weeble

aka Steelchaser

Rating: PG

Focus: Jon and TnT, duh.

Summary: It’s time for Admirals to start acting like Admirals, and get out of the way. Jon joins the effort. Thanks to Putaro and Kotik for advice and consent.

Disclaimer (necessary): Star Trek: Enterprise and its characters are copyright CBS/Paramount. No copyright infringement is intended by the author of this story, which is solely for the purpose of entertainment and is not for profit.

DISCLAIMER (additional): see chapter 1

In the hours it had taken to analyze the second message from the buoy now referred to as BA (short for Benedict Arnold, Lt. Commander Reed had insisted he had been a great patriot although tongue in cheek), a third message had been intercepted by Enterprise and forwarded. Admiral Yamashita wished he could just hand the entire problem over to Harris but had decided not to completely open that door. He suspected that the Coalition members had similar clandestine operatives, but the key word was clandestine. He couldn’t “out” Harris. It was also plain that messages two and three had nothing to do with Jupiter Station; the second had been composed of minor comm traffic at Starfleet Headquarters, quickly shut down and replaced with dummy info, and the third a week’s worth of activity photos from Earth’s orbiting space dock.

Senko had finally been able to return to his office having agreed to let one more weeks worth of unadulterated Jupiter Station activity be broadcast. Further, he had ordered his “Hack” team off the Station to pursue the other incursions. He had been surprised that Admiral Gral had been so successful in persuading the Coalition members to pledge ships and personnel to the information chase even convincing Soval. Even more surprising the Vulcans had committed one of their combat cruisers to relieve the Dinesh, freeing her up just in case the chase continued. Senko had a worrisome feeling that there was real trouble at the Cheron Relay station (if that’s what it was and not a Romulan Base). It was in a prime spot to receive intelligence from all over the Coalition’s portion of the quadrant. Enterprise had been able to send plenty of visuals of BA and Harris had been ordered to quietly get some answers. His comm rang. “Admiral Black wants you back in his office, sir,” his aide said. Senko closed the comm and sighed. He then rose, straightened his tunic and marched out his door.

#####

“What can I do for you, Hiram?” asked Senko as he walked into the otherwise empty office.

After motioning him towards a chair Black answered. “Senko, I feel like that Dutch kid with his finger in the dike except all my fingers and toes are committed. I just need to blow off some steam and you’re elected.” Hiram leaned back in his chair. “We need to do so many things and none of ‘em involve peaceful exploration. I am only now coming to grips with all the damage Gardner did. We ain’t lean or mean, we are bloated and listless. Where do I find my new crop of leaders? I need a new Chief of Ops, but whom? Yuri Zhadov had to have had some understanding of what was going on at Jupiter Station, should I trust him? I really don’t know all these people as well as I should. Most of the blame falls on me though. How did Gardner fool me?”

“Hiram?” began Senko. “None of us really understood how many irons Forrest had in the fire. Don’t blame yourself. If you want my opinion, Zhadov is a fine officer as is Reintz. What you need to do is define the new mission. Make Yuri your Chief of Ops and let him run with it. You made Archer your chief diplomat, get out of his way, he should be handling BA. You, my friend, are trying to do too much. If you don’t like what they are doing, fire ‘em. Better to find out before the shooting starts.

Black looked hard at Senko then broke into a smile. “My meetings with Hernandez and Buonavita were illuminating. They had misgivings about far too many officers. I think mostly because with so few opportunities we just don’t know who can do what. I think we worry too much about failing, and yes I partially blame the Vulcans, but mostly the bureaucracy we created in response to the Vulcans. If we assume there is a war coming then we can’t remain overly cautious. We will lose people and ships, which means lots of inexperienced people will be in over their heads. Like you said before, better to find out before the shooting starts. I guess its time to talk to the Tuckers, I need ships.”

“Don’t you mean Captain T’Pol?”

“Nope, they’re a pair. She’s in charge at Jupiter Station no question, but he’s gonna build our fleet. Jon Archer proved to be a good captain, but if Trip Tucker hadn’t been there to keep finding ways to keep Enterprise flying…we wouldn’t be here. I need the Tuckers to start thinking how to produce ships faster. Then I need Reintz to get those ships staffed. I need you to get to the bottom of our current security leaks. I’ll brief Archer in on BA. Thanks for your vote of confidence on Zhadov.”

########

“Charles, Admiral Black is coming to the station tomorrow. He wants to meet with us both.” Trip stiffened slightly but T’Pol quickly adjusted her pressure point and he returned to jello. He was lying on his face on their brand new neuro-pressure mat. T’Pol had shown him a Vulcan catalog and they had chosen a few items. He had also been amazed at some of the neuropressure posture support devices that appeared more like trapezes to him.

“Did he give any reason?” he gurgled, trying unsuccessfully to stop drooling.

“A status review. He requested that only you and I be in attendance. Charles, if this were Vulcan there would be no logical reason to have any apprehension, yet I feel slightly… anxious.”

“Given that we have no idea what he wants, honey, there’s no reason to be concerned. Besides this command is directly under him so odds are the boss is just checking up on us. Your turn.” They changed positions and he began working on the small bit of tension he had detected through the bond. “Maybe he has an update on BA.”

#####

0820 Admiral Black, Commander Matthews, Trip and T’Pol were seated in 8-3. Maria had placed coffee and tea, while Chef had provided some bagels and donuts. Trip decided he would weather the eyebrows of disappointment and grabbed a peanut coated donut and a large black coffee.

Black began, “When does Challenger start trials, Captain?”

“She will be ready.” Trip smiled, it had taken T’Pol a long time to start calling ships ‘she’, “1 July 2155, Admiral.” She slid a PADD across the table. “Assuming the sub-assemblies are delivered on time, we will have crew quarters for forty ready on the station thirty days in advance for familiarization with Challenger and the station. We suggest fifteen days of trials here and then the Challenger will relocate to Earth Space Dock for provisioning and crew assignment. We can begin assembly of NX-04 Triomphante immediately thereafter. The first saucer section components are scheduled for delivery 31 July 2155.”

“Are you sure Captain? You haven’t fully ramped up construction.”

Trip started to support his mate when he heard clearly through the bond, Be still Ashayam. “We have made numerous changes to the construction sequence and we will be working two shifts.”

“Admiral, this facility is being changed from a fabrication workshop to an assembly facility which more closely resembles the contracts agreed to by our suppliers. Commanders Tucker, Kelby and Hess or their designees will be enforcing the final approval paragraphs of Starfleet specifications on our contractor’s sites. We will no longer accept incomplete work.”

She slid a PADD across the table. “Our analysis of the receivers for NX-01 and -02 indicate that standard was not enforced. I make no judgments on those decisions, I do intend to insist that our contracted specifications be met hereafter.”

Trip was about to burst and began to subtly alter his breathing so as not to project too many of his emotions onto T’Pol. She was kickin’ ass and takin’ names. He did sneak a glance at his wife and saw a slight green tinge at the peaks of her ears. He was watching the blooming of the rose in her and was awed by it, his very own Vulcan Rose tinged green and pointy eared. She was incredible, polite, deferential and humble, yet dedicated and certainly in charge. He refocused on his breathing lest he knock her off stride.

T’Pol continued. “I do request additional Starfleet personnel be made available for on-site inspections,” another PADD headed towards the admiral who neatly deflected it to Matthews. “They are to be Jupiter Station personnel, who will take over the NX construction program as we transition to the Gideon ships.” She paused and turned her head, ”Commander Tucker.”

Trip spoke up. “Admiral, I ask that you consider turning the NX program hull over to the Tellarites. Their metallurgical science is superior to ours. I understand that it will cause conflicts with our suppliers on earth.” He paused. “Our engines are better as are our nacelles. Maybe they would consider helping us. I know their ships can handle a great deal more punishment than ours. If we can add shielding technology to a Tellarite hull sir, we’d have a space tank. A space tank Ashayam?  Trip realized what he’d said and smiled. Tell ya later babe.

Trip watched as Black sat back in his seat and then leaned forward and selected a chocolate covered donut. “Captain, when can you start assembly of the Gideon Class ships?” He looked squarely at Trip. “Class name approved, by the way.”

T’Pol responded. “Uncertain sir. We have not received final design drawings from any of the Coalition partners. Assuming there have been only minor changes we will be able moor a hull in four weeks.”

“Captain, I need you to get that prototype built ASAP. If it is to be our ship then I fear we will need a bunch of them. I need you Commander,” he turned his head towards T’Pol “excuse me Captain,” then back to Tucker, “to figure out how to shave time off of the production schedule. I want at least three by Christmas and twenty next year.”

Trip fell back in his chair, his tongue stretching his cheek and his mind obviously at high warp.

“Captain.”

“Yes, Admiral?”

“I think I would like to tour your facility. It appears Commander Tucker has a lot to think about.”

###########

They were standing at the entrance to the Goat Locker when SCPO Litlitvinowitz magically appeared. T’Pol’s raised eyebrow caused Admiral Black to burst out laughing. “I believe we have been under observation Captain.” Her other eyebrow joined the first.

“How ya been, Chief?” asked Black affectionately and the two exchanged a firm handshake. “The Chief and I have an extended history of mutual service, Captain.” Following which SCPO Litlitvinowitz appeared to be having difficulty with his own decorum. T’Pol was now unsettled.

“Would you care to inspect our quarters, Admiral?”

“I dare not refuse. With your permission, Captain?”

She heard Trip through the bond. You're not invited honey. Let ‘em go. “Will you join me for lunch in the mess, Admiral, 1200 hours?”

“Thank you, Captain.”

She returned to her office not entirely certain what had taken place. She determined to ask Trip later that evening. Trip had suggested that a Human behavior class should be held in their quarters as the explanations tended to be long and convoluted. She set aside the thoughts. Trip, can you join me in my office? He popped through the door moments later, his tongue pressing hard against his cheek. He looked at her and tilted his head, his own eyebrows elevating slightly.

“Commander, have you determined how to achieve the Admiral’s goals of ship production?”

Trip pointed to a chair and she nodded. Trip plopped into it and began, “We can build ‘em that fast, if that’s what you mean. I just don’t know if all the technologies are gonna work together. Look, the engine works, it’s a standard Vulcan design. We also know that while the Andorian hull is a prototype, you can bet the Tellarites will make it a structural marvel. I’m certain the Andorian nacelles work, this design is in service on other Andorian ships.

It’s the controls that I’m concerned about. I just don’t know how well the engine and the nacelles will mesh. The only thing I can think of is to get the Vulcan engineers here for their simulations so we can review them. I would like to have the Andorians on station as well, but that might get frisky.

“Commander, perhaps we should get Commodore Archer involved. It appears to be a diplomatic situation, does it not?”

“Can’t see how to avoid it. Probably best to get him up to speed early.”

“Thank you, Commander, please join me in the mess at 1200 hours.” She sent a burst of affection through the bond and felt him reciprocate. It was “business” hours, and they had agreed to keep things formal during the day. She also knew her ears were tinged green with her adun this close. Trip extended his fingers in an ozh’esta. She felt the pads of his fingertips, and smiled deeply. My love, I think you have time to meditate, I suggest you take the opportunity, or I will claim husband prerogative and make it an order.

She watched him leave her office, ogling just a little. T’Pol knew he would never usurp her authority, but would remain constantly vigilant of her emotional state. He also looked nice. She began to imagine running her hands… I am not sensing you in a meditative trance, came clearly through the bond. She quickly corralled her emotions and centered herself. She then shielded some of her other thoughts and did some after hours planning. She had ordered a few things he didn’t know about from her catalog.

########

Jon entered Black’s office as ordered. Columbia had dropped him off and headed off towards the former Expanse to track down the Illyrians and offer reparations. He had wanted the mission himself, but had been told no. He had also been told to get the hell off of Columbia before they became a target. He had been assigned quarters at Starfleet HQ where Porthos wasn’t exactly welcome although Rank Has Its Privileges. Lieutenant Undofa, a young up and comer apparently, had been assigned as his aide, wonderful, because he didn’t have anything for him to do either. His mission was out amongst the stars and he hadn’t been able to hitch a ride anywhere. Erica had laughed out loud when he suggested he organize their coming nuptials, ignoring all his protestations and merely giving him a kiss and the address of the tuxedo shop. Along with a couple of invitations for the Tucker’s and Malcolm he was under orders to deliver.

“Sit down Commodore. I’ve got a job for you,” said Black. “I want you to go see Captain T’Pol over on Jupiter Station. She has need of your diplomatic assistance.” Black paused and looked hard at him. “I have been reluctant to send you over there, Jon. You were her commanding officer for four years, but the station is hers. You outrank her, but have no, I repeat no, authority there. I want that clear in your head. Understood?”

“Yes, Admiral.” Jon stiffened; this had come out of the blue.

“Commodore, there are a lot of your former crew there and soon, hopefully, members of the Coalition will be in residence. Tread very carefully. She is to have no knowledge of this conversation; it is up to you to restrain yourself. Be advised she works directly for me in the chain of command.” Then Black’s face took on a conspiratorial look. “I will not object if a qualified test pilot helps the Gideon program, especially if I find out after the fact.” Black was smiling now.

Black slid PADD across the table. “Jon, this is the complete dossier on the security incursion on the station. I haven’t kept you informed; that was a mistake. It’s now Admiral Yamashita’s problem, and it is classified. You will want to have Captain T’Pol fill in any blanks, she’s aware that you have been cleared. Hereafter I need you to handle the diplomatic fallout, Yamashita knows you will be involved. Keep me posted.”

Jon left the office not quite understanding why he had received the warning. He was excited that he could quietly volunteer to fly the new ship, Gideon Class, Black had said. He didn’t understand the biblical analogy but whatever. He went back to pondering. He wondered what T’Pol needed as he headed back to his office in the embassy.

#########

“Captain, I understand you’re looking for me?” said Jon as T’Pol’s face appeared on the monitor.

“Yes Commodore. When can you come to Jupiter Station?”

“I have no pressing duties for the next few days, I just need a lift,” said Jon forcing a strained smile.

“One moment.” T’Pol blinked out momentarily, before returning. “Our shuttle can be at the Star Fleet HQ in an hour. I recommend you bring an overnight bag, however we can return you at any time.”

“Then I will be there shortly, Captain. I look forward to seeing you and Trip.” And he signed off. Damn, he had forgotten to ask if Porthos could join him as he planned on staying on the station overnight. Well, Undofa drew the short straw. He was feeling sorry for himself and knew it, but it didn’t ease his dislike of begging a ride. He had been captain of the Enterprise, traversing the galaxy, able to order the ship and crew as he saw fit. Now he had to call a cab to get to the other end of Earth’s solar system. He returned to his quarters and packed a bag. He decided to toss in a bottle of bourbon.

He was still grumbling to himself when Jupiter 1 showed up and Malcolm bounced out, saluted (they were outdoors) and shook his hand. “Good to see you sir. I’ll take your kit,” reaching for it.

“Great to see you, Commander. How’s the new job?”

“Quite the challenge, sir. Still trying to get my footing. After you, sir.” The shuttle was quickly airborne and Malcolm turned to his former captain. “Have you read the PADD that Admiral Black gave you sir?”

Jon was quite taken aback. “No, how did you know…” trailed off as Malcolm looked at him knowingly. “I take it I had best read it now?” Malcolm nodded. They landed at Jupiter Station before Jon finished. He had not looked up from the PADD until the shuttle bay doors had closed behind him.

“Sir, Admiral Yamashita asked me to relieve you of the PADD. I can make all of the information available to you by other means.” Jon handed him the PADD. They exited the shuttle bay to a receiving party consisting of T’Pol and Trip. “Welcome to Jupiter Station, Commodore.” He noted that T’Pol looked better than he ever remembered. She stood upright and assured, yet radiated warmth toward him.

“It’s good to be here Captain, Commander. Thanks for the invite. I assume we have much to discuss.”

“Yes Commodore, please follow me.” A quartermaster snatched up Jon’s baggage and disappeared. “Your gear will be placed in quarters 6-34.”

Trip chimed in with a smile. “I got a map for ya.”

#########

Jon, Trip, Malcolm and T’Pol were gathered in 8-3. “Commodore Archer, in order to meet Admiral Black’s production goals we are going to need Vulcan, Andorian and Tellarite engineers on station. Commander Tucker will explain his requirements.

“Commodore, we gotta get the prototype rolling. Based on all the drawings and specifications we’ve seen, we can build it. All the individual components work, in fact most of the components are solid technologies that have long track records. What I am concerned about is the relationship between the Vulcan engine and the Andorian nacelles. Currently their engineers are collaborating, but on their home planets and over sub-space. Sir, we need them here so we can integrate their simulations.”

“I see, but why the Tellarites?”

Trip continued, “Their modifications to the original Andorian hull design are based on performance assumptions. We also made S.W.A.G.s (a standard engineering term meaning specialized wild ass guesses) on power distribution, shield generator locations, and weapons power requirements. I’d feel a whole lot better if they were here.”

Jon sat back in his seat and said. “Commander Reed, do you have a brig?”

“No, but we can build one.” Malcolm said smiling.

“I’m pretty sure I can get them here, can I assume you mean right now?”

“Yes Commodore.” T’Pol replied. “We need a functional prototype for trials in four months.”

Jon gaped at T’Pol, then Trip. “Four months?” She nodded. “Do you have names?”

“Not really, our communications have all been through their project leaders.” Trip slid a PADD to Jon. ”These are all our notes and messages. We need the folks who are doing the work. I am guessing about four or five from each of the Coalition partners. We will have room for up to twenty of each species.”

Jon smiled “Looks like I’ve got a lot of work to do.”

Malcolm looked at T’Pol who nodded faintly. “Commodore. We have a ticklish security situation.” Jon nodded. “The NX program is common knowledge. Not a calamity, but knowing there have been multiple incursions is disturbing. We’d like to keep the Gideon program out of sight. We have to be careful with outgoing communications for the time being. Did you bring your diplomatic ciphers with you?”

Jon nodded.

“We must maintain current comm traffic until we have contained the breach. We want to keep the Gideon traffic to a minimum and tight-beam only. One possibility is to route all comms to Starfleet command and broadcast from there. It would hopefully look like nothing more than increased diplomatic chatter. It also will help if we do not have to broadcast much Gideon traffic off the station at all, hence bringing the Coalition engineers here.”

Jon’s head was spinning now. T’Pol took over. “Commodore it may be logical for you to move onto the station.”