5CDTPRE55

by j(/~" Nicole Corntet

..~..;::......

a STAR TREK fanzine ? ..:?-- s - -:.:::: Story and Artwork

by

Nicole Comtet

A ScoTpress publication

Editor· Valerie Piacentini Typing - Kathryn Boag Proofreading - Janet Quarton, Sheila Clark & Valerie Piacentini Printing of Masters - Janet Quarton Printing - Urban Print, 57 Perth Road, Dundee. Distracting - Shona and Cindy

BLOW BACK - a sequel to Return To Source, in which TPring seeks revenge for imaginary wrongs, is put out by ScoTpress and is available from-

Sheila Clark 6 Craig mill Cottages Strathmartine by Dundee Scotland

© ScoTpress February 1994. All rights are reserved to the writers and artists. Anyone wishing to reprint

ScoTpress - Sheila Clark, Valerie Piacentini, Janet Quartan & Shona Chapter 1 asteroid band but we should make up for the lost time within an hour."

In the star-filled vacuum of space a "Come on, Spock, 20 minutes more sleek interstellar shuttlecraft was or less makes no difference. We're on sweeping along on course for the Epsilon leave ... no problems, no command duties Eridani system. Silence reigned in the for a month. Doesn't that feel good?" comfortable cabin, barely disturbed by Kirk watched the stars slip past on the the steady drone of the warp engine and forward viewport. "Asteroids, you said? the fain t hiss of the life-support system. Funny, I didn't feel anything. Was it rough?" In the cockpit the navigational instruments hummed and clicked softly. "Somewhat," Spock nodded. Lights gleaming from the console brought into relief the regular features of "You should have called me." Kirk the solitary man sitting at the helm and sounded reproachful. glinted on the receiver plugged into his pointed ear. His dark eyes surveyed the "Unnecessary, Jim. You were sound readings on display, but presently he asleep and the situation did not warrant a allowed his attention to slacken and co-pilot." leaned back in his chair with a sigh. "All right. It's my shift now. Go The last half-hour had been eventful and get some sleep." as the craft wriggled its way through a thick asteroid swarm; the way was "Thank you, Captain," Spack practically clear now but for a few replied scanning the sensor readings, "but asteroids still shootirl.g past every now after we have avoided the asteroids and then. Once the long-range scanner presently on a collision course, we can gaye tilt: ,111-dear navigation could be set safely lock navigation back onto back lmto automatic. Such were the automatic. Hold on!" he added as his thoughts of the lone Vulcan when the hands flew over the console and deftly door slid open behind him and a stifled flung the craft into a steep turning dive yawn heralded a tousled-haired around some huge chunks of rock in.dividual who stretched lazily before hurtling towards them, dropping into the co-pilot's chair. Simultaneously an ominous crash "Hi, Spock. How are you doing?" followed by a loud curse was heard aft. Their eyes flew first to the control panel, "Good morning, Captain. All read- looking for warning lights, then to outs are normal. However we are exchange a significant glance. running 20.43 minutes behind schedule." "It seems that the Doctor is back "Oh? Why's that?" among us," Spock commented serenely as he straightened up the nose of the craft "We came across an uncharted and smoothly resumed their original heading. although I doubt he'll ever admit it."

"Now, what has he been up to?" Some time later, having showered, wondered Kirk, getting to his feet. 'Tll go changed clothes and retreated into a short and take a look ..... meditation, Spock joined his companions in the tiny lounge~cum-galley, from The door opened abruptly, which drifted appetising smells of coffee revealing the indignant face of Doctor and food. He sat down to his usual dish McCoy. "Oh, you're here, Jim. Will of fruit and cereal and quietly listened to someone kindly tell me what the heck's his friends, who were talking with their going on?" mouths full.

"Asteroids, Bones. Are vou all The conversation revolved round right? No bones broken, I hope?" ' the invitation the trio had been sent by Spock's parents, Sarek and i\manda. Kirk "Very frnmy!" McCoy grumbled. had been touched by the kind words ''I'm fine, thank vou. I only dropped my Amanda had put in the message and had brand-new razo; in the wash-basin and been delighted at both the prospect of the damned thing has broken apart; my spending his month's leave at Spock's razor, I mean. Mind if I borrow yours, fmnilv home in ShiKahr. and of Jim?" furthering his acquaintance with his friend's parents. McCoy, although "Of course not. Help yourself." secretly flattered to be included in the invitation, had at first been rather "I deplore the mishap, Doctor," the reluctant. However after submitting, as a Vulcan put in. "If you let me have your matter of form, to a little persuasion he shaver, I shall attempt to fix it for you." had embarked with his friends.

"Oh, would you? Mighty nice of "It's too bad your parents will be you, Spock ... Well, I'd better get ready." away, Spock," Kirk remarked. "How long McCoy turned to go, then as if on second did you say they would be?" thought, he looked back and enquired, "How much longer before we get there?" "Amanda mentioned another week or so. It will largely depend on the "Another 13,45 hours," Spock outcome of Sarek's diplomatic mission. It informed him. is unfortunate. On the other hand it will give you time to clCcustom yourselves to "That long? Damn! I didJ:1.'t the climatic conditions and to familiarise remember Vulcan being so far away." yow'selves with our traditions and way of The door snapped shut behind him. life before your official introduction to the Clan." "Poor old Bones!" Kirk commented. "Never at his best at the crack of dawn." The jaws of both Humans dropped in dismay at the tranquil announcement. "I wonder if we were right in asking "Er.. tell me, Spock ... what exactly does him to come with us, Captain," Spock that entail?" Kirk asked in trepidation. remarked. His First Officer regarded him "Of Course we were. Don't worry blandly. ''Just what I said, Jim. My Spock. I'm sure he'll enjoy himself, parents will give a reception in your 3 honour and present you to the "Agreed, Captain. Trau also has Xtmprsqzntwlfd Clan. That is all." the reputation of being a strong-willed woman in the Vulcan community, but she 'WelL this is all very flattering, I'm has great responsibillties and a reputation sure, but I didn't anticipate receiving red­ to live up to. You may find her carpet treatment on Vulcan. I'd rather somewhat different in private." assumed that this would be just an informal R & R." "Really?" Kirk looked dubious. "It might be worth a try." "It will be an informal leave, Jim. However as you and McCoy are starfleet "Are you sure, Jim?" McCoy asked officers of some renown it is logical that caustically. "And just how do you intend your presence in ShiKahr should arouse a to explain the fact that you're alive and certain degree of interest," Spock kicking when the last time she saw you, explained while sipping his tea. you were very dead indeed?" "Therefore a few social gatherings are to be expected." "Damn! .. ' I hadn't thought of that. suppose she heard the true story "Oh Lord!" groaned McCoy. "r hate eventually, didn't she, Spack?" formal occasions! And when we are presented to that whatever-you-said clan "She did, Captain, but when r met of yours, does that include the old girl? . her on my last visit the subject was not I mean TPau? No offense meant, Spock, raised." but r might as well be prepared for the worst." "Quite," Kirk replied with a knowing look. ''I'm sure you all had more "It certainly does, Doctor. Moreover pressing problems to deal with." TPau, as Head ~f our House, is entitled to a courtesy call upon my arrival. I assume "However," Spack continued, "r she will also expect a visit from our understand that Trau and the High honoured guests." Council were officially informed of your ... survival by my parents, Jim." McCoy's blue eyes rolled upward. "Oh, joy!" he breathed. 'That's what r thought," Kirk said. "By the way, sorry to bring up painful "Why, Doctor, you do not seem to memories, but it is best to be prepared. be taken with the idea. Are you afraid of What about your .ex? What are the a frail old lady?" Spack's eyes held a chances of us running into Trring or that sardonic twinkle in their depths. man of hersT'

"Afraid? I'm scared stiff, Spack! Spack's face assumed a stony look. And r don't mind admitting it. As for "Since she chose the Kal-if-fee, TPring your frail old lady ... don't make me laugh. and I have nothing in common. The bond To judge from your Kun-ut-whatsit has definitely been severed. That is all as ceremony, TPau's as hard as nails!" far as I am concerned. To the best of my knowledge Stann has been stationed on a "Bones has a point ,there," Kirk Research Colony for some time. So the remarked. "She is a formidable old lady. odds of meeting either of them in ShiKahr Even the big guns on the Federation are extremely low and I do not believe Council cower before her." that". " 4

The hoot of a signal cut him short face lit up at the sight of the young man and brought them all to their feet. The coming through the arcade and they Captain beat his friend to the door and touched hands in salute, dived to the control board. "Let me deal with it, Spock, it's my watch. You let "Greetings, sister. I have come to Bones do the dishes and go and get some take my leave of you," said the visitor. sleep." "Greetings, Sirvann. When do you Dutifully the First Officer turned leave?" she asked, sitting on the curb of round and eyed McCoy who was already the fountain. He seated himself cross­ stacking crockery into the cleaner. legged at her side.

"Well, Spock, what are you stnnding "Soon, At dawn tomorrow. We there for?" drawled lhe Doctor, "You've should be away for twelve days, pl)ssibly got your orders." less. It will depend on the success of San~k's l1"lission." A Spockian eyebrow and an "Aye, Doctor," answered him and the Vulcan "Is the Lady i-\ITlanda also going retired with dignity to the aft of the ship. \vith you?"

"She is. At the express request oi the Alien Department. However 1 beJieve Chapter 2 that neither she nor the Ambassador are happy with this assignment." Sirvann At the end of a hot Vulcan day a stole a glance at his sister, whose young woman was pottering about her countenance only expressed polite garden in the residential section of interest, but being sure that he had ShiKahr. Gliding barefoot across the cool aroused her curiosity he explained, tiles and humming to herself she offered a "Naturally they do not object to t-his pretty picture in her light sleeveless tunic; particular mission. They only regret her auburn hair loosely bound up on her having to leave now, of all times.. Do head and unruly curls escaping around you know why?" he asked, his grey eyes her delicate pointed ears. She had turned alight with suppressed excitement. the sprinklers on and was busy watering her potted plants, which were drooping "I do not, but obviously you do and from thirst, her quiet activity hardly you can't wait to tell me." TKahalin disturbing the birds perched on the regarded her brother with Cl.mused marble edge of the pool. tolerance.

Presently footsteps ringing on the "You will not be so indifferent when tiles made them stir and the sound of a you hear that Sarek expects a visitor male voice had them flying away in a within a few days. Don't vou want to flurry of wings. know who is co~ing, T'Ke~?" he asked quizzically. "Sister? are you there? T'Kahalin?" His insistence made her wonder and a strange feeling of exciternent [nIl over The girl straightened up. pushing her, which she quickly covered up with ZI straggling \visps of hair [rom her brow, gentle rebuff. and turned round expectantly. Her lovely 5

"Sirvann," she chided, "will you the disapproval that these unseemly kindly refrain from using that childish emotions earned them from some of their nickname ... and come to the point." relations. ·The Old Guard of ShiKahr' as they were dubbed by the younger "Very well, sister. This very generation. morning I was informed by Sarek of Comlnander Spock's arrival in a few days' Sirvann, whose position as private time. He is to stay for a month." secretary to Ambassador Sarek naturally gave him access to first-hand information Had Sirvann hoped to surprise his about Spock's doings, was the dour sister then he succeeded, to judge by her Vulcans' elected target, but he took it in wide-eyed slare and the delicate green his stride. With a half-smile he touched tlush on her cheeks. her hand saying, "I must go now. I still have much to do at the office." "Oh1" she breathed. Then recovering her poise, "Oh, indeed?" she said with "I hope you will return soon. You feigned indifference but, conscious of her would not want to miss Spock and the blush she turned her face away and gave other guests." all her attention to her reflection in the pool. "In any eventuality," Sirvann pointed out, "you will have the "Indeed," repied Sirvann, secretly opportunity to meet them before long. I amused, "Sarek also mentioned Captain am sure that Spack will attend your next Kirk and another officer... the Chief concert; he could not miss that." Surgeon, I belive. Amanda was giving instructions about their rooms a moment She looked doubtfuL "Why should ago. Well, T'Kee, isn't this interesting?" he? He will be engaged with his friends. He will show them our world and, let us She nodded thoughtfully, absorbed be logical, he probably does not even in the water that she let trickle through remember me." her fingers and presently said, "Indeed. But why, dear brother, should you Her brother got to his feet and assume that it is of particular interest to looked down at her and there was that in me?" his expression which once again brought a jade flush to her face. "I beg to differ, He gave her a sly look. "Because, TKee. That is very unlikely. I wish you dear sister, 1 have the impression that success at the (oncert. Lash'D'Oro since you met Spock two years ago, his. V'Suka*, sister." fate does not leave you indifferent - or am 1 mistaken?" As the sound of his footsteps faded into the distance, TKahalin sat by the The girl returned his teasing look. pool, staring absentmindedly at her "You may be right," she replied primly, image that was slightly distorted by the "but l, at least, do not indulge in hero­ ripples stirred by her hand. worship." Unconsciously her thoughts reverted to the man who was to arrive in a few days "Don't you, sister? You surprise and whose memory re-occurred much too me The two exchanged a gaze of often for her peace of mind. complicity, well aware of the admiration and respect that each felt for Spack and of *Uve long mtd prosper 6

I Will he remember me? Will he seek 10 than asked, "Spock? Everything okay?" 'ice me again? When we last lI1et in the lXlrk, he diel indeed sp?ak of visiis, of l11t1sicaiSt1therings Spock, who had been holding a when he l1eXt refumed, bllt ." will he care nOlD? mysterious conversation with the orbital And CT)en if he does, "(oill he have the time, with dock control, removed his earphone and the Humal'!$ to lock after and cntertain 7/ looked round. "Affirmative, Captain. 1 have just confirmed our request for Illogically she let herself indulge shuttle servicing and parking. Also I once again in the bitter-sweet pleasure of have been advised that the next planet­ reliving some of their encounters; from bound transfer is due in 35 standard the magical moment when their eyes had minutes. We just have time." He stood met for the first time, that day Jt the up and going to the outer hatch began to Academy, to the enchanted hours spent in deactivate the safety locks. sharing their love of music. With a shiver she recalled her shock of hearing about "What about our gear, Spock?" his abduction by Romulan spies and the asked McCoy, indicating their bags piled relief when he was found alive, to one side.

Imperceptibly these memories ·'The dock personnel will h,mdle conjured up the lean features and the them. Just take what you wish to keep dark magnetic gaze which had captured v-,rith you." her attention from the very first. She sighed. I Wh)/' d! wh)/ WClS she hal/nted l7Y McCoy slung the strap of his medi­ fhis fascinating being who, logimlly,must ha-re kit over his shoulder. "Ready! Come on, forgotten her by /1(J(J.)? Teasing, leasing numll JiIn, we·ve already checked everything three times. Let's go!" he said impatiently. She stood up abruptly, startling the They joined Spock who W[lS already birds so that they flew in all directions, outside supervising the loading of their and made the decision, there and then, to bags on to an an ti-grav cart. The Doctor cast him out of her mind. stared around him then nudged the Captain. A wise but impossible decision. "Take a peep at those guys, Jim," he hissed, nodding at the dock attendants. "1 wouldn't be surprised if Snow White Chapter 3 popped round the corner."

Jim Kirk eased the nose of the Kirk stifled a giggle and had to shuttle into the allotted berth and admit that McCoy's flight of fancy \·vas switched off the controls. Then leaning perfectly justified. With their pointed back in the pilot's seat he said with ears, red pOinted caps and curly-toed satisfaction, "Voila! r still haven't lost my boots the Vulcans seemed to have just touch, have 1, Bones?" ' stepped out of a [[liry tale. The Doctor grinned, as pleased as a kid a t a The Doctor replied with a grin, pantomime. "Just imagine Spock in I·hat ·'Fishing for compliments, Jim? Yeah, get-up!" he whispered. ·The re[ll pixie." that was neat even if YOU don·t reach Su1u·s standard, but then '... who can?" ··Gentlemen,·' cut in ,) cool voice, '·if you would kindly descend frOIn ~'our "Who can, indeed?" Kirk retorted, fairyland perhaps we could proceed to 7 the embarkation area." Spock, a light bag "Which reminds me," McCoy slung over his shoulder, was regarding interjected, "we'd better take our dose of them with carefully controlled tri-ox right now." He reached down for impatience. The elfin personnel had his bag and as he rurrunaged for his medi­ already left with the baggage cart; the kit he suddenly had the eerie feeling of tvvo friends exchanged a sheepish grin being watched. He looked up and his and joined the Vuican., who set a brisk eyes collided with the cold stare of a pace. hefty-looking individual standing with a group of Vulcans a few metres away. As they boarded the elevator Taken aback by the fixed glare, McCoy McCoy remarked, "We were struck by reciprocated with one of his own. At those porters back there, Spock. I've once the man reacted with the disdainful never seen more original unifonns." raiSing of one eyebrow and then deliberately turned his back. "So I heard, Doctor," the Vulcan blandly replied, "and so did everyone "What the helL" fumed the Doctor. within earshot. This way, please," and he "Never seen such bad manners.. Good led them into a waiting-room. God!" A shocked McCoy had just realised who the man was. "Bones," said Kirk in an aside, "we'd better remember that evervone here is "What's the matter?" Kirk asked. endowed with Spock's sharp'hearing." "Guess who's here, Jim." McCoy McCoy made a face. "Let's hope dropped his voice. "Big fellow in a brown they have never heard of Snow White and cloak, right behind me." the Seven Dwarfs!" Kirk shot a covert glance and then "Oh well," Kirk shrugged nodded, "The man facing the other way? philosophically, "it's one of two things, Yeah ... looks vaguely familiar ... some-one Bones. Either those fellows don't speak you know?" Standard and we're okay or they do and our comments will be probably dismissed "You bet' Its Stann, Jim." as pure Human aberration." "Stann? Are you sure?" "Probably," the Doctor chuckled. "Positive. I recognised his face but I Spock shepherded his guests to a couldn't place him -at first. Then he vacant table in the lounge and after looked at me and I'm sure now." ordering drinks for them he went off to check on their flight. Left to themselves "Damn!" Kirk cursed softly. "Looks Kirk and McCoy relaxed in their like Spock has miscalculated the odds this comfortable chairs and watched with idle time. On our very first day we have to curiosity the other passengers moving run bang into that guy. You know, about. The Doctor remarkedr "It's so Bones, I'm not vindictive but T'Pring's quiet in here, for all the crowd, isn't it?" attitude at Spock's aborted wedding still rankles." 'That's Vulcan, Bones. These people never raise their voices; we'll need "And quite rightly, too," McCoy to get used to that, among other things," hotly replied. "You'd need to be a saint to Kirk replied. forget how she used you, and Lord knows B you're no saint, Jim! But the point is .. charming Human woman. what do we do?" Only two days had gone by since "Do? What do you nwan? There's th(~ir arrival and already he and Jim had nothing we can do." made themselves at home with an ease that had surprised h.im. Kirk could fit in "I mean ... do we tell Spock?" anywhere but McCoy, harder to please, had been for all his misgivings "Of COurse we do, but not here, not pleasurably impressed by the size and now. Anyway," Kirk looked over style of Sareks estate and by the McCoy's shoulder, "Stonn's no longer courteous welcome given by the stafL He here. had to hand it to the Vulcans; for smooth elficiency there was no-one to beat thern. "Good riddance," said the Doctor. "Ah, here's Spock.·' From the rnomcnt of their bnding at the Shanaikahr shuttle-port things had "All set, Spock?" asked Kirk getbng gone like clockwork. Aiter a brief routine to his feeL ~heck through passenger contToi Spock had whisked them away to an "All set, Captain. The ShiKahr undergrOlU1.d parking area \vhere one of flight has been announced, This way., Sarek's air-cars, their bags already stacked in the back, was waiting for l'hem. Spock had brought the humming car out into the open then putting on speed had swept Chapter 4 them off over the desert to ShiKahr and its oasis. When they eventually landed at /Yes,O/l reflection, there [I)as something the back of the house, Staurak and fo be said for Vulcall hospilality/ mused TMina, the housekeepers, had been Doctor McCoy, refreshed and pleasantly waiting on the doorstep to greet them. mellowed after a nap and a third mint The Doctor had felt that for all their julep mixed just to his taste. At thal Vulcan formQlity, they were making him I1"l.oment the ship's surgeon was reclining and Kirk very welcome indeed; and the at his ease in a garden chair on the shady manner in \~hich the old couple had side of the patio idly watching Kirk's greeted Spock had been quite revealing of energetic performance in the pool. / J[(sf the affection they bore him. Yes, so far, like filii 1"0 zl)asie energy ill physical exert/oil McCoy had to admit that this shoreleave instead of relaxing ill fhe shade!/ on V ulean was not such a bad idea after all. "IllogicaL" he chuckled, Taking a swig from his cool drink, McCoy glanced A silent presence at his side broke approvingly at his surroundings; a in on his thoughts and lookiJ1g up McCoy pleasant combination of babbling produced a long appreciative whistle. fountains and shimmering pool on a backdrop of dark polished granite, "My word, Spock! You sure look brightened by vines and blossoms dandy in that attire, I hope TPau was exuding a sweet heavy scent. /Yes, fhis is duly impressed," a beallf"iflll place./ Never had McCoy imagined that he would be so taken with Spock glanced down at his bronze­ Spock's home, a stately Vulcan mansion coloured pants and tunic tTimmed with enlivened by the taste and touch of a small gems at the front and replied, 9

"Believe mt.~, Doctor, it would take more beverages. I said that they avoid than this to impress TPau." polluting their bloodstreams with them," Spock pointed out. "I can quite believe that, Spack," the other chuckled, "but what took you so McCoy pounced at once. "Illogical! long? Did she keep you in audience all How can anyone know about food and that time?" drink without consuming them? And how come a Vulcan is such a connoisseur "No, I had several errands to run," that he can produce any drink we ask him Spock explained, and he sat down on the without batting an eyelid ... and in record garden seat. "I hope that Staurak has time? Or is he the exception that proves a.ttended to all your needs while I was the rule?" away," he added. "Precisely, Doctor. Staurak is an "He certainly has," McCoy grinned, exception. As you must be aware, being amused by this new facet - Spock the in charge of an ambassador's household 'Perfect Host'. "Everything is fine. Jim requires specific qualities and abilities. has taken up residence in your pool; as These prove invaluable when, for for me ... look at this!" He waved his glass. instance, Sarek entertains alien diplomats. "What do you think this is?" Staurak has necessarily acquired a vast knowledge of exotic drinks so as to meet, Spock tilted his head and looked. both promptly and efficiently, any of our "One of those deleterious drinks that you guests' requirements." usually indulge in, I presume/' he offered. Kirk nodded appreciatively. "A "You presume right, although precious man, indeed. Tell me, how long deleterious remains to be seen. But the has he been with your family?" pOint is.. this is no ordinary booze, Spock! It is a genuine, home-made mint "For longer than I can tell. Long julep! Honestly, I never expected to drink before I was born as he was in my father's mint-juleps on Vulcan, but your Staurak service before Sarek met my mother." is a gem, not that I'm telling you anything new, I'm sure. I only mentioned the "You are fond of him and of his wife name ... on the off chance, you know, too.. I can tell," McCoy remarked and ... hey presto ... he produces one of the noticing a subtle, gentle expression soften best juleps I've ever tasted. Which proves the Vulcan's features. that all your fine talk about Vulcans knowing nothing of alcohol is just so Spock looked at him. "I am, and I much eyewash, Mr Spack!" have every logical reason to be so. I cannot forget how supportive they were A burst of laughter drew their when I was a child," attention to the pool where Jim Kirk was sitting on the edge, his legs kicking lazy Kirk smiled at him fondly. "Every swirls in the water. "Ah, Spack," he said, logical reason," he repeated softly, "looks like you're being accused of imagining the lonely boy, rejected by his deception. What have you to say in your peers because of his Human heritage, defence?" seeking some comfort from the old couple. 'This, Captain. never said that Vulcans know nothing of intoxicating The sound of measured footsteps in 10

the gallery announced Staurak, carrying "And what about this one?" Kirk both himself and a loaded tray with asked holding up his glass. '·It's delicious dignity. He silently set down a frosted but I can't work out what it is." glass of some effervescent liquid on the tiles by Kirk and a glass of fruit juice on "You won't, Jim," Spock told him, the small table at Spock's elbow. mildly amused. "It is Staurak's own Straightening up, he solemnly gazed at recipe. Even Mother has given up McCoy and enquired, "Do you require guessing what is in it. Hasn't she, another mint julep, Doctor?" Staurak?"

The Doctor shook his head. "No, "Indeed, Commander," Staurak's thanks, Staurak. This is my third and I face held a touch of smugness. "This can have too much of a good thing." drink is called a 'Staumk's Special' within lhe family. lL is a tonic concoction of Spock raised an ironic eyebrow at herbs and a few other ingredients. I McCoy's moderation but he refrained thought that the Captain might benefit from comment, merely asking the old from it after his strenuous exercises in the man, "Staurak, the Doctor wondered how pool." you could provide his drink at such short notice. Would you explain." Kirk displayed one of his dazzling smiles. "Thank you, Staurak. You are "Certainly. It is simple. The mint really spoiling us." julep recipe is logged in the kitchen data­ banks and since I had t·he required In view of the Vulcan's bJank stare, ingredients to hand there was no need for McCoy hastened to translatE.~. ·The any unnecessary delay." Captzlin means that you are taking too much trouble for us." "Oh Lord," groaned McCoy. "My mint julep is out of a computer .. J might "I beg to differ. sir. One can never have known!" take too much trouble," the old man repli(~d quietly. To Spock he said, "Will "But where did you get the data?" you need anything else, Commander?" Kirk asked curiously. "No, thank you, except for une "From various sources, Captain," thing. Do not call me Commander."' Staurak replied primly. "Information was received from foreign visitors and, of The glimmer of a smile crept onto course, from Lady Amanda. Regarding the wrinkled face as Staurak bowed his the mint julep, however, I must state that head and turned to go. Then he turned I replaced One of the components, since back, saying, "T'Mina told me to say that we do not stock mint in the house, I used she has made your chocolate cake for Shul'kas, which tastes somewhat similar. dinner," before h~ left discreetly. I trust that you fow1d it satisfactory, Doctor McCoy?" ·'Your chocolJte cake, Spock?'· McCoy asked, all agog. "It was perfect," McCoy declared. "That little something extTa, slightly spicy "1\ recipe that my mother brought ... a great improvement, Staurak." from Earth," Spock calmly explained, "and that TMina adapted and improved "I am gratified, Doctor." considerably. The Terran name is, I 11

believe, 'Black Forest Gateau'. T'Mina the traditional mid-morning collation, the knows that I am partial to that K'Has'Krut as we call it." confection," he added rather sheepishly. "Oh, great." McCoy brightened "'Black Forest Gateau'," Kirk was perceptibly. "That's jolly nice of TPau." enthusiastic. "1 love it, Spock. It's Spack favoured him with a glance which delicious. Bones, I think we picked the shattered his illusions at once. right place for shore-leave, what with a Cordon Bleu cook in the kitchen and a "I would not bank on a treat, if I magician at the bar! But I suppose that were you, Doctor, I can tell you from your home is an exception, Spack?" personal experience that TPau's K'Has'Kruts are invariably Spartan. "It is," Spock replied dryly. Therefore, as a compensation I have booked a table for lunch at Taillevent, the "What about TPau?" McCoy asked most repu table restauran t in the as a joke. province. You will be able to eat your favourite Terran foods there." "As is to be expected, T'Pau's diet is purely Vulcan. Incidentally, she "Do you mean that's it not just expressed a wish to receive you in her vegetarian? I could have a steak for house." instance?" McCoy sat up, suddenly revived. "And a wish from T'Pau is tantamount to an order, I suppose," Kirk "Certainly. They pride themselves wryly suggested. on being able to offer specialities from the best cuisines of the galaxy." "Indeed, Jim. She is expecting our visit tomorrow at 6.15 hours." "That sounds wonderful, Spack," Kirk smiled, "but I'm curious. This "What? 11tat early!" the Humans Taillevent sOlillds French to me ... how chorused in protest. come?"

"Standard time," specified their "The place was opened by a deadpan host. "Local time, it will be Frenchman, many years ago. He was the 10.30." first Earther to come and settle here after my mother set the example. It is still kept McCoy rolled his eyes upward by the family." while Kirk shook his head at his First Officer. "In a teasing mood are you, Mr "Fancy! A French restaurant in Spock? 10.30 is certainly a more ShiKahr," the Doctor commented happily. reasonable hour to pay a call on a lady. But tell me, how should we dress? "There are quite a few restaurants Casual? Dress unifonn?" which originate from various parts of the Federation, Doctor, "Spack remarked. "Uniforms would be superfluous. "The advantage of Taillevent is its However, although Vulcans do not pay location near the shopping centre, and as much attention to outer appearances I you spoke of looking for suitable desert think formal dress would be appropriate. clothing, Jim ... " Also the hour specified for our visit implies that we are invited to partake of "We shall certainly take a look at 12 the local stores. This is great/' Kirk said then at the pool where the two friends briskly. "We have our plans neatly were now fooling about under the small worked out for tomorrow. Er.. what cascade. "I am not sure, Doctor McCoy/' time's dinner?" he said thoughtfully. "Spock is the same and yet he is not." "In 42 minutes, Captain." "But that's illogical, Staurak," "Then I think that I'll take another McCoy could not resist the remark. turn in the pool," Kirk decided. "Care to join me, Spock? Come on! I'll race you to "Yes," Staurak replied quietly, "it is the waterfall." Without waiting for an illogical but nevertheless it is a fact. And answer, he plunged in headfirst to it may be for the best. At last. Spock reappear a moment later, grinning and looks content. He has found loyal shaking water from his eyes. "Come on friends." He turned his faded eyes to in, Spock! The water's fine," he called McCoy. "It is gratifying, and it is logical jokingly. to approve such a change, isn't it?"

His First Officer stood hesitating on "It certainly is," agreed the Doctor, the edge, then a flash of defiance bumed who \'vas beginning to like the wise old in his eyes. Without more ado he kicked fellow very much indeed. off his sandals, stripped to the skin and letting his clothes slide to the tiles, shot into the pool in a clean headlong dive. McCoy, surprised into hoots of laughter, Chapter 5 rose to get a closer look at the contest. All he could make out in the swirls and Trau, regal and enigmatic, was splashes was Jim's arms ploughing wildly sitting in her ornate armchair and looking through the water for all he was worth appraisingly at the three men in front of with Spack in hot pursuit and closing in her. Outworlders in general were wont dangerously. to fidget in her presence but, strangely enough, the two Humans were sitting "Look at them' Just like kids," he quietly and their gazes did not waver chortled. "Who would believe those two under her penetrating stare. are Starfleet Command Officers." True, Kirk had to live up to his A movement behind him made him reputation as the bold Starship Captain. look round. The ubiquitous Staurak had Still, it pleased her to note the open gaze laid a bathrobe on the seat and was now of his hazel eyes, the self-assured yet gathering and carefully folding the unaffected demeanour which had already clothes that Spock had so casually struck her attention during the dramatic discarded. The Doctor eyed the placid circumstances of their first encounter. face and wondered what the Vulcan thought of these antics. McCoy ... ah, McCoy. Indeed, he was another matter... an interesting ''I'm afraid/' he said with a smile, character, a man of contrasts. A healer of "that the contact with emotional Humans great renown and probity, yet capable of has perverted your Spack, Staurak. Do deliberate trickery. His eyes, so strangely you find him changed?" blue, were looking at her with a curious mixture of defiance and diffidence. Staurak gazed levelly at McCoy Clearly the man was W1easy .. and well he 13

should be! Yes, her duty was to sound head. Spack remained innocently out this McCoy; to find out what maIU1er detached and McCoy cleared his tlu-oat. of man he was, and to confirm what she suspected. "Vulcan is honoured by your visit, Captain," she continued imperturbably. As for Spack.. she fixed her dark, "I trust that Spock will show you the beady eyes on her grand-nephew and technological achievements of our people noted with approval his proper Vulcan and also the natural beauties of our land." restraint as he sat gracefully, hands folded in his lap, a composed and expectant Spock nodded in assent. "TI1at is expression on his face. A ware of his calm indeed my intention, Trau." strength, she was relieved that no evil after-effects remained from the fiendish "Good. I t is however regrettable mindprobe he had been subjected to that Sarek was called away on this v"hen last on Vulcan. Yes, all seemed to unexpected mission. Have you heard be well now. from your parents, Spack?"

TPau's visitors, likewise, were "I have, They called last night. discreetly sizing her up. To Kirk's vivid Father said that he could not tell, as yet, imagination, the old lady looked, with her when they will be able to return, It seems elaborate hairstylE' and jewellery, like that the delegates from Tell.r are being some hierarctic idol, aloof and difficult." omnipotent. McCoy's thoughts were more commonplace; W1der the Vulcan's Trau raised disparaging eyebrows. scrutiny his thoughts flew back to his "What else can we expect from Tellarite student days when he had stood in diplomats! They argue for argument's trepidation on the carpet of the Principal's sake. However Sarek knows how to deal office. Spack also felt memories from his with them. Spack, why don't you show youth surge up in his mind. So many of Captain Kirk my Shas-a-shar garden? 1 this house; the faint clinging citronella have a collection of desert plants which fragrance, the cold marble seats, the stern might interest you, Kirk. It is said to gaze boring into his eyes, recalled the compare favourably with that of the formal visits with his parents or the Academy." painful occasions when she had sent for him to demand explanations for his Kirk, although surprised by the actions. It seemed to him that Trau had proposal, got to his feet and smiled. "I am always presided over his life, like some not, unlike my Chief Helmsman, an omnipresent deity. expert in botany but I would be very interested, Madam." The old lady broke the silence and resumed speaking, "So.. Captain Kirk Trau inclined her head like a appears to be in perfect health. This is benevolent schoolmistress. "Go with satisfying, The skill of his Healer is to be Spack; he knows something of botany, he commended. ll1e demise of such a will show you. Afterwards come and jOin brilliant officer would have been a loss to me, in the inner court, for some the Federation." refreshment. "

Jim Kirk, unsure whether she was ll1e Doctor was about to follow speaking in earnest or giving vent to when TPau raised an imperious hand. subtle Vulcan sarcasm, merely bowed his "McCoy will stay," she stated majestically, "We have to talk." Vulcan in tow and strode down the garden path. Jim Kirk looked back at McCoy, silently asking if he needed help, but the Doctor just made a wry face and subsided onto his hard marble seat. Kirk walked Chapter 6 out close on Spack's heels. He had the distinct impression of having been sent The Vulcan dowager and the out to play in the garden until tea-time CM.O. were eyeing each other across the while poor Bones was kept indoors and room, and the silence was deafening. punished for having been naughty. "I want some answers, McCoy," Spock, feeling his Captain's TPau said presently. concern, paused at the gate. "Jim," he said quietly, "you need not worry for McCoy. "That depends on the questions, 1 know from experience that his tongue is Ma'am," MCCoy retorted warily. as biting as that of Tpau." "Do not prevaricate, Doctor McCoy. A smile lit Kirk's face as he followed You know perfectly well what I mean. At Spock into the garden. "I guess you're Spock's Koon-ul"-kal-if-fee, you declared right," he said. "TPau may well find her Captain Kirk dead and had him match i.n our Doctor. You know what? transported back to your ship. And yet, I'd give a lot to be a fly on the wall!" we heard later that he was alive and \vell. Therefore I assume that you made use of Spock stopped in mid-step on the a subterfuge. Explain!" sandy path. He turned round narrowly missing the prickles of a crimson McCoy bit his lip, debating with blooming cactus. "A fly, Captain? himself, then made his decision. "Explain Whatever for?" what? Of course I used a subterfuge. The drug I gave Jim was not a vitalizer but a "So that I could hear everything dose of ronoxiline, a powerful neural without being seen. It's just a figure of paralyser." speech, Spack." Trau regarded him with a spark of "Oh, 1 see ... like the little mouse in interest in her eyes. "So .. that is what it the hole," Spack nodded wisely. was.. a neural paralyser. You deliberately deceived us." "Mouse in the hole?" his nonplussed Captain repeated. "Sure," McCoy returned heatedly, "and I'm glad I did, otherwise Jim Kirk "Another figure of speech, Jim, would not be here todav. Believe me, which I heard once from an Earther. It Madam, if it was going tc; help save a life means the same thing," Spock explained I wouldn't think twice about using any complacently. "Shall we take a look trick." The Doctor, quite worked up by around?" now, sprang to his feet and paced restlessly round the room, watched in "By all means, Science Officer, since stony silence by the old lady. I am told you know something of botany. We have our orders, come on!" Kirk, Eventuallv he swung round and flashing a broad smile, gathered his faced her agail{. "Tell me, Madam, what 15

would you have had me do? Stand by Humans around here. TIlis was a fine and watch Spock and Kirk cut each start to their month on Vulcan. other's throats for the sake of that.. of thaL." Words failed him. "No, Madam, I TPau broke into his thoughts. "Do was not going to stand idly by while my not be concerned, McCoy. We Vulcans best friends were trapped by some stupid have long known Humans to be ritual into murdering each other. Those emotional, head-strong and generally iU­ two are friends, as you very well know mannered creatures, but there is nothing because I told you so. Their friendship is to be done. They are what they are." something unique, and was I going to let it be destroyed? Not on your life! And "Now look here ... !" the Doctor you? Couldn't you have forbidden that sputtered. scandalous fight in the first place? Why didn't you? Is that your Vulcan respect "Let me finish," she cut him short for life? Your Vulcan logic? Pah!" peremptorily. "I was about to say that, somehow, these Human feelings are He turned away abruptly and found understandable; although the manner in himself staring Qut at the rock-garden which they are expressed cannot be where, judging by Jim's grinning face, his entirely overlooked. However they friends were having a good time as they denote compassion, generosity and a strolled among the desert shrubs. He loyalty to your friends which must be suddenly wished he were with them, commended. It pleases me that Spock has away from the chilly presence he could found kindred spirits in James Kirk and in sense at his back. Trau had wanted you, McCoy. Indeed, Spock chose his answers? Well, she had them now and friends well." more than she had bargained for. He sighed and felt curiously drained. Dumbfounded by this unexpected turn of events McCoy stared at the old After a moment the cool voice rang Vulcan, whose severe features now held a dear in the tense silence. "Have you touch of irony, done?" she asked. "You look s.urprised," she remarked McCov nodded and mumbled, dryly, "but don't you know that you ·'Sorry. I got carried away." should never judge by appearances? Contrary to common belief, Vulcans also "That much is obvious." There was have compassion, but they are creatures a pause. "Come and sit down," ordered of duty and logic above all else. You the voice. taxed me with allowing the combat, with ignoring Spock's entreaties, didn't you?" Startled, the Doctor turned and eyed Trau warily but she was her usual aloof McCoy nodded, tongue-tied. self as if his' tirade had gone straight over her head. He sat dov.rn and waited with "There is a fact which you mixed feelings. In a way he was glad to outworlders must understand; since time have got that off his chest but he was also immemorial VuJcans have followed laws embarrassed for having let off steam in and traditions that cannot be ignored or front off this legend. 'All of Vulcan in one altered. I once heard a Terran official package', as Jim had said. Damn! His, in declare that laws were made to be broken; Spock's parlance, 'emotional display' was on Earth, perhaps, but not on Vulcan. not going to improve the reputation of Our ancient customs must be observed, 16

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} i i {I 17 whatever the cost. mean to say that I injected Kirk with a paralyser instead of a stimulant because "The regrettable turn of events at you planted the suggestion in my mind? Spock's Koon-ut-kal-if-fee is but one That's preposterous." instance of this absolute rule. Contrary to all expectations, TPring chose both the "I did not suggest the neural challenge and Kirk as her Champion. paralyser," Trau pointed out coolly. "I That was her right. I expected Kirk to know little of medical matters. I merely refuse but, to my regret, he did not. Once suggested some means of disabling Kirk he had accepted the challenge nothing and simulating his death for as long as could be done. I may have some was necessary. You found the answer influence on this world but where our and acted with commendable speed and ancien t laws are concerned I am efficiency. " powerless and that fact is known and accepted by Spock, as by any Vulcan. Do "But it's impossible," McCoy you understand, Doctor McCoy?" protested. "I mean, I felt nothing, no mind touch ... " The Doctor nodded again, moved by her quiet dignity. Throughout the "My skill would be defective indeed, Federation she was known as TPau, the if you had," she replied dryly. indomitable guardian of the Tradition, but McCov saw in front of him now a "Well ... l'll be damned." The Doctor frail, aged woman bound by archaic sat dumbfounded, then all of a sudden a customs and concerned by their eventual notion struck him. "I say ... what about implications. those famous ethics that Spock trots out all the time? You reached into my mind "However," TPau went on serenely, and made use of it without so much as a 111 this provoking situation an by-your~leave. Where was the Vulcan unforeseen element proved to be most respect for privacy?" opportune for my purpose; you, Doctor McCoy." "Granted, McCoy, but logic dictates that desperate situations call for "Me'" McCoy blinked, nonplussed. desperate measures and you did say, a while ago, that you would go to any "You indeed. For all its disturbing lengths to save a life. Be logical, Doctor." emotions, I was pleased to find your mind so easily open to suggestion." Somewhat disgruntled McCoy said with a crooked grin, "I might have known "What do you mean, 'open to you'd bring in logic as justification. suggestion'?" he asked uneasily. That's what Spock does all the time! He has a knack for finding the best logical "Has it not occurred to you that the reasons for embarking on the most idea you had of saving your Captain by outrageous stunts." means of your medical knowledge may not have been entirely yours?" she asked "Indeed? Interesting." Actually with a pointed look. TPau was more than interested, she was pleased. Her conversation with this McCoy's blue eyes looked blank, emotional Human, whom she could read then widened in dawning comprehension like a book, had proved most rewarding. and finally blazed with ou trage. "Do you Not only had it confirmed her favourable 18 impression of Spock's friends but it also detennined expression Spack's face had revealed fascinating traits of his character worn when he had entered Sickbay and and showed his dual nature in a new spoken of turning himself over to the light. authorities. Thank goodness Jim had been alive and well and... something McCoy had been the perfect, even McCoy would never forget ... at the shock, though unknowing, execu tor of her ruse the Vulcan had broken into that and she had owed it to him to tell him the incredible, dazzling smile. TPau, who truth. Now she had to make sure that he had been observing McCoy's expressive kept it to himself. So she resumed, "You face with interest, remarked, "I see that must understand, Doctor, that what I you now realise the full impact of your have told you is strictly confidential and action, Doctor." must remain a secret between us. All that anyone else needs to know is that your "Yeah .. lots of things are clearer.. ingenuity caused you to take prompt and you were right," McCoy conceded. though unorthodox action that saved two "That suggestion of yours was the logical lives." thing ... all in a good cause. I appreciate you telling me .. but there is one point, "Two? I'm afraid I don't follow though .. er .. may I speak openly?" you," a puzzled McCoy said. There was a touch of sarcasm in "You surprise me. If Kirk had TPau's voice as she said, "{ was not ,\\-vare actually died, do you think that Spock that you needed my leave to do so, would have survived his friend? How Doctor." little you know him, DoctoL" He had the grace to blush.. "Sorry, "Spack? But .. he wouldn't have .. I but as my friends could tell you, I've mean Vulcans don't commit suicide ... or never beel; one to mince my wo~ds. One do they?" thing I don't understand; how come highly civilised, rational Vulcans still find TPau regarded him with brooding these bloodv rituals, these combats to the eyes. "They do not," she replied grimly, death, acceptable? Sheer waste of lives, if "but under certain circumstances, Vulcans you ask me." are quite capable of shutting down their metabolic functions. They simply cease "Spoken like a healer and a I"1'uman to exist." healer at that," TPau said drvlv. "You must know that tradition i:o'rms the "Oh, my Godl " the Doctor backbone of any community. Your own whispered. He shivered. "You mean that planet retains its ancient customs and Spock would have turned himself off?" culture. Vu1cans only do the same ,1S you She nodded. "Crudely expressed, but accurate. I knew what he had in "Agreed, but we have abolished mind when he took his leave. In response many barbarous customs. Why can't to my ritual salute, 'Live long and you?" prosper', he replied, 'j shall do neither. I have killed my Captain and my friend.'" "It is impossible. There are too many factors involved. The influence of "Spock said that?" McCoy was some ancient families and lTaditional moved. He recalled the tragic but brotherhoods is still too strong to allow 19 consideration of any innovations for the the cool patio that was common to all presenL It is possible, however, that houses in ShiKahr he let out a sigh of future generations will bring about some relief. As they turned the corner he changes in oW' ways." halted in his tracks so abruptly that Spack all but collided with him. "Is that so? Well, I wish them luck," McCoy commented. "In the meantime "Spack," Kirk hissed over his there are some people, like TPring and shoulder, "do you see what I see?" her mate, who know how to use your traditions to their ovvn advantage." "I do, Captain," the deep voice murmured in his ear, "and I find it most TPau studied him with her keen interesting. 'Scared stiff indeed." gaze, "For a Human you do not lack perception," she remarked, rising from Kirk stifled a giggle. "Did you say her chair. "There are indeed such people interesting, Mr Spock? I would say who plan and scheme and sometimes unbelievable." over-reach themselves. TPring's guile lead her finally to the status of chattel. "Oh.. there you are, you two," She rejected Spock; she wanted Stann; she McCoy called as he caught sight of them. is now his property." "What have you been up to? Get lost in the garden?" The Doctor was Sitting at "Well, she had only herself to ease in the shade, a cold drink in one blame," McCoy said as he followed his hand and a piece of cake in the other. On hostess, "but I rather suspect somehow his right, TPau presided over a table that it might be the other way round, loaded with Vulcan delicacies while pots That girl didn't look to me to be the of tea and fruit juice were brought in by a submissive type." young shy-looking maid.

He was favoured by a sharp look. The two friends exchanged a look of "You may be right, McCoy," she said. amusement and joined the party. They had hardly sat down when they were "By the way," he said offered food and drink by the girl, who conversationally, "did you know that had obviously received specific they're on Vulcan right now?" instructions regarding the visitors' sustenance. Kirk, surprised by the She paused. "Are they? How do copious fare, stole a sideways glance at you know?" Spock, who replied· with a perplexed eyebrow. "We saw Stonn, three days ago, on the orbital station." Contrary to their expectations T'Pau's K'Has'Krut was more than a "That is unfortunate," TPau simple snack. Did she believe that declared, deep in thought. Then she Humans needed to be well-fed in order to walked on, saying briskly, "Come, let us sW'vive on Vulcan? Whatever the reason have refreshment." these Humans set about doing full justice to the collation. To Spock's secret Kirk came back from TPau's garden amazement, TPau was revealed as a hot, thirsty and feeling that he had seen perfectly attentive hostess and Jim and enough cacti and succulents to last him a McCoy looked like they were 'having a life-time. When Spock ushered him into good time' .. , fascinating! 20

Chapter 7 After the menu had been discussed at length and the meal finally selected the Jim Kirk gave an appreciative long-suffering Maitre d' departed, leaving glance around the restaurant, taking in the three men with a drink of K'vass. the elegant decoration, the flowers, the profusion of glass and silver-ware. He "You know," McCoy said, with a sat back in his chair, eyes sparkling with comprehensive glance around the diners the eager anticipation of a little boy ready who numbered about as many Vulcans as for a treat. aliens, "what beats me is finding this kind of establishment here." "This is a beautiful place, Spack," he smiled. "Why?" Spock asked. "You do not lack exotic restaurants on Terra, so whv Spock regarded him with a smile of be surprised at one on Vulcan?" his own. "J am pleCtsed that this pleases you, Jim. I thought it might be to your 'That's the point, Spock. Rightly or liking. You will find that the cuisine is on wrongly, Vulcans have a reputation for a par with the decor." their austere way of life. And with you, and you're not exactly known as an "You make my mouth water," Kirk Epicurean, for reference.. I did not opened the four-page menu and his eyes imagine that your people would be found widened as he fan down the list. "Look at indulging in such vulgar pleasures as this, Bones. That's what I call a stylish eating and drinking. It's not that I don't menu," appreciate the vegetarian meals that TMina has been cooking but I'm talking "I am looking, Jim," was McCoy's about TaillevenL Somehow Vulcans and sarcastic reply, "and I'm damned if I can French gastronomy don't mix," understand a word of these fancy French names Spock assumed his air of pedagogic aloofness. "Your assertion proves that SpaCk looked up with a pained you are labouring under a expression on his face. "Try the next misapprehension, Doctor. Vulcans, as page, Doctor ," he recommended. you must be aware, have a well­ developed perception of beauty and McCoy turned a page and scoffed, perfection, and we appreciate whatever "Fat lot of good that is, Spack. I haven't attains that standard. Chef-d'oeuvres can yet got to the point of reading Vulcanur." be found in all fields of study, I once read that gastronomy brought to perfection is "That is the vegetarian menu you a fine art in its own right. It is therefore are looking at. Try further on," Spock logical for perfection-seeking Vulcans to patiently replied. frequent this temple of gastronomy."

"Will you stop grousing, Bones,"· "You high-browed, pompous ass," Kirk laughed, "and look at the back. It's McCoy exclaimed, "Why don't you give in Standard. You'd better make up your up your damned logic and admit that mind, the Maitre d' is coming our way." Vulcans enjoy good food like the rest of And indeed, a portly, solemn-looking us? What's wrong with doing that, Vulcan was gliding towards their table, anyway?" note-pad in hand. "Gentlemen," Kirk intervened, "I 21 don't like to interrupt this discussion but satisfaction from the Humans. need I remind you that we can be overheard." As Spock finished his soup he said, "Gentlemen, would you excuse me? "Not so, Captain. I activated the Someone with whom I should speak has sound-screen when we came in." Spock just corne in. I won't be a moment." Kirk sounded quite smug about it. smiled his assent and Spock rose to his feet and made his way across the room. "A sound-screen? Where?" McCoy They saw him speak to a thin-looking demanded. man who looked pleased at the encounter, and this drew from McCoy the Spock pointed at a small switch remark, "Met a friend apparently. Funny cleverly concealed by the flowers in the ~ I always thought that Spock was centre~piece. "A simple means of keepi.n.g ostracized on Vulcan for being half­ conversations privi'lte," he explained. Human." "This device dampens or scrambles voices otwill." "They've probably changed their minds ... and not before time:' Kirk replied The Captain and the Doctor shared with a grin. "What do you think of your a grin. "How about that," the latter entree, Bones? And of the wine?" marvelled. "Trust the Vulcans to come up wi th high tech gadgetry to protect their 111e Doctor sipped some of the wine blessed privacy. And I'll bet it's put to its and smacked his lips. "111is Meursault is full use somewhere like this." fabulous. Spack was right, bless him. Cuisine of this quality is nothing short of "Indeed. Particularly when there perfection." are uncontrollable Humans around. l11

As soon as the waiters removed the "Yes, it's a pity," Kirk agreed, "but covers the food looked and smelt so one can't have everything, and ... " He delectable that all discussion was broke off with a gasp, then said tightly, forgotten. The Maitre d' filled their "Bones! Look at that girl in the pink suit glasses with a vintage wine, then with a with two other women, by that palm slight bow, took himself and his tree .. Isn't that...?" underlings off. The first course was savoured in an appreciative silence, "You're damned right. 111at's punctuated only by appropriate noises of T'Pring all right:' drawled McCoy. 22

"Hasn't changed a bit.. still as beautiful "Yeah, Very neat. That's the way to and proud as Lucifer. Changed her treat the girls who let you down," the hairstyle, though." Doctor muttered as Spack, his face an unreadable mask, joined them and "You remember that, Bones?" Kirk wordlessly took his place. was amused. As the waiters were bringi.ng the "Sure, Jim. Trust my memory. next course, comments were superfluous wonder what she's doing here? I mean, and the Humans merely gave Spock Taillevent doesn't seem to be the kind of knowing smiles which were received place she would favour." with the flicker of an eyebrow, Once Kirk and McCoy were half~way through their "Maybe she's also looking for tournedos RossinL however, conversation perfection," Kirk suggested jokingly. was resumed and Spock, while savouring a vegetable souffle, told his friends who "If she is," the Doctor rejoined he had been talking to. caustically, "it obviously isn't in French cuisine but rather in live, handsome "Professor Stolar?" Kirk comment­ manhood." ed, "Isn't he the biologist who worked with Professor Delvaux?" "Bones! How can you be so trite?" Kirk protested with a laugh. "The same, Captain. He has informed me that their research has mel "Trite, am I? Look at her, Jim. Look with complete success. His Department at the way she's watching Spack." will publish those results that are not classified in the Academy journal." "That's right," Kirk said wonderingly, "A regular examination. I 'That's interesting," McCoy put in. don't like that, Bones. There's something "[ hope they'll issue an edition in disquieting, even predatory, about her." Standard. I'm curious to see what's come out of the secret research that nearly cost

"[ told you, Jim. [always thought you your life and sanity I Spock" she was a dangerous woman. I wouldn't trust her an inch. Oh, damn. Here comes "No need to wait for the Spack. He's bound to pass by their publication, Doctor. When told that you table ... Now, watch." were in ShiKahr. Professor Stolar said that he would be honoured to show you The wo men looked on uneasily as his labs and introduce members of his their Vulcan friend walked towards them team to you, I-Ie seems to appreciate unaware of the three women watching your work and publications:' him like so many hawks. As he drew level with them and caught sight of McCoy flushed with pleasure, '''Oh, T'Pring he paused for a brief frosty does he? That's very flattering. I would second, Then, inclining his head with certainly like to visit his labs if it's superbly detached inclifference he coolly possible." walked on. "It is," Spack replied. "We only "Well done, Spack. A beautiful have to fix an appointment." Vulcan act," Kirk approved quietly. Kirk lifted a finger. "May I be 23 included in the tour?" he asked, ''I'm not home, McCoy remarked, "One thing an expert like you two, but the Vulcan amazes me in this place; trees, flowers, Science Academy has such a reputation .. fountains everywhere; I never expected to and I'd like to see where my Science see so much water around here." Officer had his training/' he added with a mischievous look at Spock, who primly "ShiK:1.hr is an oasis, Doctor," Spock replied, "That was my intention, Captain." reminded him. "It is one of the few sites in this desert where water rises to the "Thank you, Spack. Now on to a surface." less pleasant matter. As you see my apprehensions about seeing TPring on "And your people surely know how Vulcan were justified. Sheer bad luck, but to make the most of it," Kirk commented. the question is, what do we do about it?" "Your hometov.rn is remarkably ... " A sudden roar cut him short and a crash had "Captain?" Spock looked puzzled. the three men whip round in time to see a "I do not w1derstand. There is nothing we huge, furry creature vault over a gate and can do." trot ponderously in their direction.

"Granted, but we are new on "Good Heavens," the Doctor stared, Vulcan, Spack. We don't know how to frozen to the spot. "What the hell is that?" conform with Vulcan etiquette in this case. If we come across TPring and "That is a pet which, if I am not consort, do we acknowledge them, or mistaken, has just broken out," Spack said ignore them?" in mild amusement.

"It will depend on the "Are you kidding' A pet? With circumstances, Jim," Spack replied non- those fangs?" McCoy protested, "And committally. what are we supposed to do now?" he added nervously, since Spack looked like "Personally, I'm all for ignoring waiting calmly for the assault. them," the Doctor interjected, "and I refuse to have my gourmet hmch spoiled "Isn't that. one of your famous by that damned girl. Now how about sehlats, Spock?" Kirk enquired. "A some dessert?" beautiful beast, but. .. Spock... look out!"

Too late. The animal rushed at Spack and standing on its hind legs let its The red globe of Eridani was enormous paws fall on his shoulders in a descending towards the horizon, setting formidable bear hug. Anyone but a everything aglow, when Spack brought Vulcan would have collapsed under the his friends home. Although tired and crushing weight but Spock didn't seem in ready for a drink McCoy and Kirk were the least affected and he even suffered his quite pleased both with their day out and face to be washed by the raspy tongue of their shopping in ShiKahrt and neither of the beast. Then pushing the big muzzle them could get over the beauty of the away he explained quietly. garden-city alive as it was with fountains and birds. "There is nothing to worry about, Captain. Cham is perfectly harmless, if As they walked in the shade of not fully trained yet." sweet-smelling trees near to Sarek's 24

The sehlat, purring with A look from Spock caused him to satisfaction, dropped on to its paws and add, "We come to serve." A nod of rubbed its maned head against Spock's approvallTom the Vulcan followed, legs. The Captain held out a cautious hand and patted Cham's brow, who Kirk, amused by the charming purred louder than ever. formality of the child, produced his warmest smile. "Thank you, Serik. I am "Fancy," said McCoy, "It sure likes very pleased to meet you and so is to be fondled and it apparently knows McCoy;' he added with a nudge at the you, Spock. But isn't it dangerous to let Doctor who waS obviously fascinated bv that animal roam around the streets? the big sehlat and the tin'y girl hugging How come its owner lets it loose?" each other.

"Owners, Doctor," Spock specified, "What? said McCoy. "Oh sure, verv "and I believe that they are not far away." glad to meet you, n"\y boy, but is thaI you'r sister? Is she safe i.n the clutches of that Sure enough the voices of children beast?" and the patter of small sandalled feet on the path heralded the arrival of a boy and "Perfectly, Doctor," Spock ,1ssured a little girl, who ran up to them and him. "She is more secure with her pet halted breathlessly in front of Spock. At than anywhere else. Sehlats are the best once the girl took possession of the sehlat protectors of children, and I speak from by throwing her arms around its neck and experience. burying her face in its mane, The boy fixed his eyes on Spack and delivered the 'That's right, I remember nnw," ritual greeting with solemn formality, McCoy exclaimed. "Your mother told us Spock replied likewise and lightly about your pet. Like an oversized teddy touched the temple of the child, whose bear, she s<:lid. So th<:lt \NClS a sehlat, vvas eyes sparkled with ill-concealed it?" excitement. None of this was lost on Kirk or McCoy, who stood apart and watched "Yes, sir. It was bigger than Cham the scene with curiosity. and its name was I'Chaya," Serik proudly informed them. The brief mind-touch over Spock said, "Jim, Doctor. Allow me to introduce "And how come vou are so well­ our young neighbours, Serik and TChal. informed, young man?" Kirk asked wi th a Come, children, make your salutation to grin. Captain Kirk and Doctor McCoy." "Commander Spock told us about "Captain Kirk? Of the Enterprise?" I'Chaya and about the Enterprise," the The children's eyes widened in awe. boy replied,

"The same; and Doctor McCoy," "And also about Kirk and M'Koy," Spock prompted, said a shrill little voice, and TChal peeped shyly around her brother. Serik, recalling his manners, took a deep breath and intoned in perfect "ls that so?" said McCoy, glancing Standard, "Captain, Doctor, Vulcan is suspiciously at the First Officer, who had honoured by your presence." assumed his air of studied innocence. Then looking down at the child the 25

Doctor n()tt~d her round eves, her chubby shall do our best not [-0 upset Vulcan's f

"Can you imagine that, Jim? Spock interested. "Contemporary, you say? A riding a sehlat.. that must have been a Vulcan?" sight to behold." McCoy chuckled all the way back to the house. "Yes, Captain. She is a composer, a music teacher at the Academy and also a It was not until after dinner that soloist for the ShiKahr Philharmonic Spack broached a subject that he was Orchestra," keen on, although he was uncertain as to how his guests would receive his "Oh, a woman composer. That's proposal. The trio was sitting under the interesting," the Captain commented. blooms of the bower-vine and enjoying the cool evening breeze. With glasses of "Incidentally," Spock resumed after K'Vass in their hands Kirk and the Doctor a pause, "the orchestra is giving a concert were lounging in a pleasant euphoria to-morrow evening, and ... I thought that.. induced by the strong drink and the perhaps you might be interested..... soothing wash of sound from the Vulcan Spack's voice trailed off casually as his harp. As the final flourished ripple of fingers brushed the strings, but his arpeggios swept from Spock's fingers Jim apparent indifference did not fool his Kirk breathed a sigh of sheer Captain one little bit. contentment. Turning a searchin,g eye on his "That was delightful. Spack. Just friend Kirk met the intense gaze fixed on the kind of music I like. Cool, relaxing, a him and knew at once how much his perfect conclusion to an enjoyable day. response meant to the Vulcan. "That's a Don't you agree, Bones?" splendid idea, Spack. What do you say, Bones? Care to come with us?" "Huh?" McCoy emerged from his reverie. "Sorry, Jim ... I'm afraid I was "Well," the Doctor sounded daydreaming. That lyre of Spock's has doubtful. "1 don't know .. A whole the knack of sending me off wandering in concert of Vulcan music? I'm not sure I an euphoric state of mind... Quite a could cope." pleasant sensation, actually," he said and drained his glass. "Do not worry, McCoy. The programme includes Vulcan, Terran and "Really' 1 am flattered, Doctor." Rigellian pieces."

Was that sarcasm that McCoy "Oh? Sounds interesting; and that detected in Spack's tone? He replied in musician of yours .. is she performing to­ good humour, "And well you might be, morrow?" Mr Spock! It's not everyone who can do that. Not that I wasn't listening, mind "Certainly, In Mozart's Concerto you. I particularly liked that last piece for Flute and Harp." with the tinkling notes, Very nice. What was that? One of your improvisations?" "Mozart? Mozart on Vulcan? That I would like to hear. Okay, you can count "No, Doctor. It is a ballad by a me in - and what about some supper contemporary musician who ranks as one afterwards? In a nice little place of our best composers." somewhere ... What do you think?"

"Is that so?" Kirk sounded mildly "Agreed, Doctor." 27

"That sounds great, Bones." adapt the alien orchestration to Vulcan instruments. 111e result is quite effective, "That's a deal, then." McCoy stifled as you will hear in a few minutes." a yawn and stood up. "I don't know about you two but what I need now is my McCoy looked sceptical, but his bed. It's been a busy day and there's more attention was caught by Kirk who to come tomorrow. Mind if I turn in?" nudged him and whispered, "Look down to the right, second row .. that woman in They walked back to the house in white and blue.. Isn't she the Healer we companionable silence, giving a last look met this morning?" at the brilliant darkness of the galaxy spanning over their heads before turning McCoy craned his neck then sat ll1. back with a nod. "Yes, that's her ... A remarkable woman. What's her name? ... TRa ... TLa .. ?"

Chapter 8 "TLian, Senior Healer of the Academy Healing Centre," Spock The ShiKahr Concert Hall WJS a reminded them. handsome example of classic Vulcan architecture, a clever combination of "That's it. T'Lian," McCoy said grimite, marble and precious woods. happily. "Do you know she invited me to Spock had managed to secure three visit her clinic? I'd like to go one of these central seats about halfway up, and as days. there were still some minutes to spare, KiTk Jnd the Doctor gave free rein to their "Well, we can drop you there on our curiosity. Thev were struck by the hush way to the gymnasium," Kirk offered. reigning ufH.ie; the lofty vaul'ted ceiling "Spock promised to introduce me to the despite the concourse of people. Tier secrets of Vulcan martial arts." JEter tier was filling up with hardly a murmur and conversations were held in "Good Lord! We'd better have an low voices. intensive care unit ready for you, Jim," McCoy retorted. Looking down at the circular stage they not-iced quite a fe"." familiar looking "I assure you that Jim will come to inst-ruments but most looked verv alien, no harm, McCoy," Spock protested. a_nd these stirred McCoy's curiosity. "Sure? That remains to be seen. "Spock," he said in an undertone, McCoy flashed a crooked grin. "those instruments down there .. they are indigenous to Vulcan, I suppose?" ' Meantime, the house lights had gradually dimmed and now spotlights "Correct, Doctor." sprang into life and focused on the stage, leaving the audience in semi-darkness. "Then, how can they play Mozart An expectant hush fell over the hall and \·vi th them?" all attention turned to the floodlit stage, except for one pair of wa tchful eyes "Simple, Doctor," the Vulcan replied which had been observing the Starfleet patiently. "Have YOLI never heilrd of Officers (lnd remained fixed on Spock. transcriptions? All they have to do is to 28

In silence, the 95 musicians filed in finally surfaced in the foyer wi th a drink and gathered their instruments before in their hands. A few sips brought them taking their places in the successive back to the present and to the pair 01 circles forming arowld the centre of the dark, quizzical eyes watching them. stage, which was inlaid with the IDIC symbol. While they tuned their "Phew," Kirk produced a weak instruments Kirk's attention was caught smile and drained his glass. "That was by some inscriptions flashing on the walls quite an experience." both to the right and left. "It sure \·va5," the Doctor concurred "What do you think that means?" with feeling. 'That was beautiful but. nw McCoy mu ttered in his ear. word, I have never had so much music crammed into one sitting." Then showing "No idea," he replied. They soon his empty glass he added, "1 think we got their answer as the Vulcan script need another one. pleasE'." blinked out to be replaced by Standard characters and they realised that it was The Vulcan made a sign and more the programme for the concert. I t waS a drinks were immediately served by the very eclectic programme, including ubiquitous waiters. While they savoured works of Terran, Vegan, Rigellian and of their refreshment the Humans took the course Vulcan composers. time to look around the lofty room which opened onto a portico and the starry This all looked promising bu tone night, and to observe the local people thing greatly puzzled the Captain. After who were standing or moving about a short moment of silence while the engaged in quiet conversation. orchestra sat in total concentration they now prepared to strike up the first piece Kirk could not fail to notice that he and there was still no conductor in sight. and McCoy were being observed wi th Spock, sensing his perplexity, munnured covert interest, but besides exchanging in his ear, "Captain, a Vulcan orchestra polite nods of courtesy with Spock, the does not need a conductor." Vulcans stood tactfully apart. Then some people just coming in caught his "! ... ?" attention.

"One of the advantages of being "Spock," he said, "aren't those telepathic." There definitely was a trace people the musicians?" of a smile tugging at the comer of Spock's mouth. Kirk chuckled softly, "Of course. I "Yes, Captain. It is one of our should have guessed." The two friends customs. After a performance t"he artists shared the same amused thought even as come and join the audience for the first chords of the concerto were being refreshments and to exchange comments struck and the stream of harmony swept about the performance. Thus the over them. audience can express their opinion, be it criticism or praise."

"I think that's a good idea," McCoy Four hours later when the Captain declared. "Since you Vulcans do not clap and the Doctor emerged from the concert or boo then that's the only way you can hall in Spock's vvake they moved dazedly say if you are satisfied or not." along with the orderly crowd. Thev 29

"Precisely, Doctor. It is a rnore magnet. Something about him, some civilised way." wlderlying expectation, aroused the curiosity of his friends and made them "Well, Mr Spock, for once I'm turn r~und to find the cause. They inclined to agree with you." McCoy gave followed the direction of his gaze and him one of his wicked grins. "And I among the crowd a lovely face suddenly wouldn'l mind meeting that lovely emerged; a face that was looking their harpist who played the solo in the way and as far as they could see one concerto and in that piece with the whose breathless expectancy mirrored strings ... er. .. ?" Spock's.

"Respighi? The Fountains of One experienced glance at the Rome?" offered Spock. graceful figure sufficed for Jim Kirk to identify the person. He touched Spock's "No, not Respighi. I mean that last arm and said under his breath, "Spock .. .is piece with the flute and harps, by that that the lady?" Vulcan composer... do you know what I mean?" Slowly, as if emerging from a dream, the Vulcan turned his attention "The Variations on a Ni-Var theme back to his Captain. "Yes, Jim. That is by TKahalin, Doctor," Spock said. she ... that is T'Kahalin," he replied. At the tone of his voice the others exchanged a "Yes. The Variations.. beautiful. glance. Quite intrigued they saw Spock And the harpist... superb." look down the hall again, hesitate, then with a curt, "Come," he strode ·"'at surprising since she is the purposefully in her direction. The Doctor composer," a deadpan Spock revealed. raised an eyebrow at the Captain.

'That young woman? She's the "He knows the lady, Jim. No doubt musician vou told us about?" about that. Come on."

"Absolutely, Doctor," Spuck TIley made their way across the nodded v,'hile his eyes roved about ,15 if crowded foyer in Spock's wake. By the looking for something or someone. time the encounter took place Spack had regained full control of himself and no ··WeIL all the more re,1Si,)Jl k) meet Vulcan could have found fault with his her, especially as it is tlw (USttl\11 here." impeccable greeting and the Similarly \1cCoy sounded quite enthusiastic. correct introduction he made for his friends. "You seem quite taken with the lady, Bones," Kirk teased. "Seriously, T'Kahalin, likewise, after her first Spock, do you know her? Do you think shock of surprise had regained her poise we could be introduced? Spock? Mr and introduced her companions with a Spock'· charming formality. When she presented a middle-aged lady as T'Lian, her Actually Spock was not paying any mother'S sister, however, the latter said attention to them. He was standing stock pleasantly, "We have met before, T'Kal. still; his dark eyes, burning with a strange Doctor McCoy and Captain Kirk visited inner fire, were staring over Kirk's Stolar'S Department this very morning. [ shoulder as if drawn by an irresistible trust that the visit was of interest?" she 30 asked the Humans. There was definitely self-righteousness in Spock's tone of voice. "Very much so, Doctor. We were very impressed indeed," McCoy declared IThat's 'what yotl think, my friend, bllt with his southern courtesy, "and so are do I !Jot defect a cerfain degr('e of J1IlI1oyallce we tonight with your orchestra, Madam. which might well I'XISS for jealollsy.. 01' al11 I You gave us a very enjoyable concert." mistaken ?I

"I am honoured, Doctor McCoy," Kirk's teasing was interrupted T'Kahalin replied softly. The faint blush abruptly as an elegant young ,voman on her cheeks added so much charm to stepped across their path and brought her delicate beauty that McCoy and Kirk them to a halt. Her cool voice said, fell at once under her spell. The Captain, "T'Kahalin, allow me to add my small with his vast experience of females, lost contTibution to the well-deserved no time in turning on his charm (md soon compliments 'vvhich have already (orne engaged the Vulcans in a general your way. Your performance tonight was conversation, all the while verv much indeed praiseworthy." aware of the watchful presence of his First Officer standing elt parade rest with "You are most kind, TPring," his hands locked behind his back. TKahalin replied, cool ,u1d self-possessed. "I am pleased that my efforts meet with Presently McCoy proposed drinks your approval." for everyone. Spock suggested the terrace and the small group moved to the "They do indeed, but J do not wish doors. T'Lian and McCoy led the way, to interrupt." TPring's cold eyes swept talking shop with her fellow scientists. over the two men, lingered on Spock with As T'Kahalin, escorted bv the lwo a subtle, calculating look, then came back Command Officers of the'" Enterprise, to Kirk. brought up the rear, Spock met the twinkling eyes of his Captain with "Captain Kirk, I presume? We are equanimity and responded with a silent honoured to see you back on Vulcan and caution. apparently in perfect health."

I Better not overdo it, Captain.1 Kirk impassive as ilny Vulcan, bowed stiffly. "MadaITI .. " he murmured, A sparkle of merriment touched his thinking I i\jO {hanks to YOII! I. mind. I But she is so charming; so iI/credibly attractive, S,JOCk, ami "h(' has (lIP most T'Pring lurned to th(~ Vulcan. beWitching eyes. I "Spock.. Her mouth savoured the name like a delicacv while her dark eves IVery /rlle. Neuertheless flattelY will ,'Sft glinted, flintHha'rd. "Spock, I must beg "'the YOlll1(fWhf.'l'e with a Vulcan female,l came the favour of a private conversation.. for a firm reply. matter of the utmost importance."

ICome on, .'lOll killioy. Don'f SlX)il my "This is hardly an appropriate time pleasure - or could if be that YOIl' r(-' jealous, Air or place, T'Pring," Spock replied calmly, Spock'/ his expression chillingly remote.

limp(osiblf, Jill1. jenlollsy does I/ot She eyed him challengingly, vvas !lumber 111110118 11 VII/call'S shortcomingsl favoured with an impassive stare and 31 said loftily, "Agreed, Spock Nevertheless A sigh escaped TKahalin's lips and a meeting is necessary, soon. Kindly keep she spoke at last. "No apology is needed, this in mind." Commander. The incident was immaterial and is best forgotten." Spack "I will," he replied curtly, bowing inclined his head gratefully. "Perhaps we slightly. should join our companions?" she suggested with a graceful tilt of her head Apparently satisfied, TPring and a glance at Kirk. inclined her head. "We shall meet again, then." Raising her hand she included all "Certainly," he smiled, "before they three in her farewell then holding her start wondering what's happened to us." head high and proud she turned away and disappeared in the crowded room. If the Vulcans had speculated about the delay, they naturally did not say so The unexpected encounter cast a and greeted them with composure. chill on the trio. Kirk glanced at his McCoy, on the other hand, did wonder friend in concern, suspecting and said so. A warning look from Kirk embarrassment behind the W1readable gave him the hint and he created a mask. The lady too seemed upset. She diversion by offering another round of was standing aloof, apparently drinks. 11l.e conversation resumed and unconcerned and glancing with studious proved to be so entertaining that McCoy's indifference over the assembly, but Kirk curiosity was not satisfied until much could tell by her tightly-gripped hands later that night. that she had been shocked by TPring's lack of discretion. When the trio got back home in the small hours Kirk and McCoy both felt Spock looked at her and his heart that Spock needed to be alone and went sank. He knew it was illogical but he straight to their rooms. The Doctor, could not help but feel responsible for the detennined to get to the bottom of the awkward situation. "TKahalin," he said matter, followed Kirk to his room, in a low voice, "1 beg you to accept my plonked himself down into a chair and apologies for that unwarranted intrusion. declared, "Now, Jim. Out with it! What It was unacceptable and I regret that... kept you so long, back there in the His voice faltered; he paused, breathless, theatre?" and stared as though taken captive by the luminous golden-green eyes gazing up at Kirk took a few turns round the him. Kirk, an interested onlooker, had room before facing the Doctor. "TPring," the impression that for all the crowded he said briefly. room the two were alone in silent world of their own. ''Damn, TPring again, eh? I wondered why Spock looked so Despite their cool restraint the tvvo distracted at times. And then, what?" Vulcans contrived to express in their locked gazes feelings so deep and private While Kirk was explaining the that Jim Kirk was moved and even awed situation, their Vulcan friend was also by the intensity of their auras. He trying to assess the recent turn of events. wistfully thought that he would give a lot After bidding his guests good night, to see those marvellous green eyes look at Spock had gone to the garden and sitting him as they now looked at Spock in this on the stone bench in the meditation strange spiritual communion, enclosure was now gazing at the 32 scintillating splendour of the Vulcan except just wait and see. I'd better leave night. Actually he was attempting to you to your beauty sleep. 'Night, Jim." rationally analyse the conflicting He stood up stiffly and walked to Ihe emotions which two Vulcan females had door. aroused in his breast. To be honest with himself, he had wistfully anticipated the "Good night, Bones, and thank you moment when he would again meet for the ctinner," Kirk said, preparing for T'Kahalin. T'Pring's abrupt appearance bed. had caught him unawares and had triggered disquieting feelings of irritation "Yeah" Nice little restaurant, and and distrust. good company, wasn't it?" McCoy commented with a wink. IT Pring ... what could be her purpose? I he wondered, /Far what reason had she "Sure .. and a clever idea to invite flouted VlIlcan convf'I1tiw? And 7.ohat was them. I wouldn't mind having dinner Stann about to let his CCtlSOlt, his chattel, attend, with women of that class every night." IInescorted, a social gathering?/ That was a grave indiscretion but even more so had it McCoy shot a knowing look at his been to address an. un bonded male in a Captain. "Uh oh, and which one exactly public place; and to be seen talking to the did you have in mind? TLian or very man whom she had so publicly TKahalin?" rejected a few years back was the height of folly. "Well," Kirk produced his most disarming grin. "1 admit that I find And yet, whatever else she was, TKahalin terribly attractive. TI1ere's T'Pring was no 1001, as he had learnt to something about her... his cost. At their aborted mating ceremony her reasoning had been "Forget it, Jim," McCoy cut in. "If 'flawlessly logical'. Therefore when she you're entertaining romantic thoughts had, against all custom, spoken to him about that girl, you'd better think again." publicly she had acted deliberately, for a definite purpose. The question was .. "How do you know?" Kirk sounded What purpose? Why ... ? Spack heaved a miffed. "All Vulcan she may be, but why sigh, He was running round in circles shouldn't she be interested'" in a Starship and achieving nothing. It was best to put Captain?" the matter on hold and await the developments which, if he knew T'Pring, "Probablv because she's more would not fail to turn up. interested in 'his First Officer. Good night." On that parting shot the Doctor /Hak'TI{uar Shun! '"' Wait and see, as left the room, dosing the door gently the Human saying went,/ Having made his behind him. decision, Spock joined his hands in the ritual position, but before slipping into' Jim Kirk sank onto his bed, a study meditation he indulged for an instant in in bemusement. "My First Officer? the mental contemplation of an absorbed Spock? And TKahalin? Impossible!" face with shining golden-green eyes. Then realisation dawned as he recalled the scene he had witnessed in the Concert Meanwhile his friends had reached HalL He broke into an impish grin. the same conclusion. "".and anyway," "Well...well...well .. Mr Spack!" McCoy remarked, "nothing we can do, 33

ChapLer 9 "Oh corne on, Bones," Kirk said. "One of these days we'll take you on a The air-car purred evenly over the camping trip in the L'langon Mountains, expanse of sand and rock of The Forge. It and I'm sure you'll enjoy it." skimmed over sandstone crags then dipped down to offer the passengers a "Nothing doing." McCoy was doser view of the mineral deposits adamant. "I won't go unless you fly me layered on the desert plain. Presently over there in comfort." Kirk laughed and Spock touched the controls and swung exchanged a glance with Spack the craft round to enter a deep canyon that slashed across the desert and "Okay then. We'll see what we can zigzagged towards some hills in the do, Bones." distance. 111e skimmer was now btU"lking "What is t-hat hill up there, Spock?" around the observatory and Spock <1sked Kirk, peering through the view­ pointed at a dark granite block crowned pm!"' "and is that a building I see on top or with a white, half-open cupola. a mirage?" "You may be interested to know "It is the Tsai Shon Dag, the highest that there is the radio-telescope which hill in the ,1rea. The Tsai Kal valley lies allowed our astra-physicists to identify beyond. What you see on top is the your solar system and Earth." observatory; we shall be there shortly." "Is it still operational?" The air-car gathered speed and began to ascend the dark granite mass of "No, Jim. It is now kept as a Tsai Shon Dag, which loomed as a museum piece forbidding barrier in front of them. With consumate skill the Vulcan slipped the "When was that?" the Doctor asked. craft behveen cliffs and crags while his passengers gazed in silent admiration at "About the time when your own lhe stark beauty of the scenery. When the astronomers, Copernicus and Galileo, skimmer emerged into the open to hang were beginning their study of your own over the edge of the hilltop, McCoy system. However two more centuries looked down at the view and commented, elapsed here before manned vessels were 'This is the way I like to explore deserts launched into space and our exploration and mountains; from a comfortable air­ of the galaxy, including Earth, began." conditioned vehicle and definitely not the hard way, Jim. Trekking and climbing "Must have been 'faSCinating' to are very nice for the likes of you but I'm observe the Humans on the sly," Kirk too old for all that." remarked with a smile.

"A pity, Doctor," Spack said as he "It was," Spock answered. "The set the air-car on the move again. ships' logs of Our earliest missions are "Everyone will tell you that the only way stored in the Space Archives Department to really appreciate the desert is to trek and I can tell you, Jim, their perusal is and spend the nights out." most instructive."

"Well, rather you than me." "I'li bet it is," Kirk grinned. "Your people must have had a shock at their 34 first sight of Humans. But why was no of Humans at that time, Jim. Actually contact attempted ror such a long time?" some Vu1cans wondered if they had been right in initiating contact with Earth. "The prime directive, Captain. The And nowadays," Spack added with a principles of non-interference were sidelong glance at McCoy, "there are still applied by Vulcan long before the some people here who hold the opinion Federation came into being. For obvious that Vulcan would be better off without reasons the Vulcan authorities considered the pernicious influence of Humans. The that Humans were not prepared to question is still debated." encounter aliens from other worlds." The Doctor rose at once to the bait. "And I don't blame them," Kirk "For Pete's sake, Spock. If Humans and agreed. "I remember rea cling the most Vulcans had never met you wouldn't be appalling theories on the possible here to raise that silly question, now existence of other sentient beings in the would you?" universe An ironic eyebrow lifted slightly. "r "Indeed," Spack nodded, "but have to admit that you may have a point ignorance is the prime cause of fear and there, Doctor," Spock acknmvledged. prejudice and your observers had little evidence to work with. If memory serves, "Of course I have," \!fceoy shot the few Vulcan vessels which were back righteously. detected were listed w1der the designation of U.FO., Unidentified Flying "And," Kirk added, "if Vulcans had Objects." never contacted Humans, I wouldn't have a Vulcan as First Officer and friend." "That's right," McCoy put in. 'There were some wild stories about "Indeed," Spock conceded, a warm U.F.O's.; flying saucers, little green men, look in his eves. "So we mav come to the not to mention all that science-fiction conclusion that the discov~ries made in stuff, But, come to think of it, Mr Spack, this observatorv were not entirelv wasted. they weren't all that far from the mark And now, if you agree, gentle'men, we with their little greer) men." The Doctor shall proceed further." waited gleefully for Spock's reaction. Spock did not fail him. "Proceed, proceed," the Doctor said. "1 am curious to see that famous Tsai Kal "They were wide of the mark, you spoke about. How far is it?" Doctor," he firmly replied. "Vulcans may be endowed with green blood and elegant "It is very close, now." Spock set the pointed ears but they have two eyes in hovering air-car in motion again, turning the appropriate place, not just one in the its nose in the opposite direction. As they middle of the face and they do not wear reached the other edge of the plateau the antennae as do the Andorians." Vulcan said complacently, "You asked for Tsai Kal, Doctor. Now, watch." "And they are not blood-thirsty invaders but logical, peace-loving Suddenly, as if by magic, the rock~ creatures," Kirk added with a fond glance ledge disappeared from view and down at his comrade. below a vision \)f lush fields ,md woodland spread out as far as the eye "Which is more than could be said could see. The contrast between the 35

fertile valley and the rocky world which thermal establishment." they'd left behind was so striking that gasps of wonder escaped the lips of the "So there are also spas on Vulcan." Humans. The Vulcan, secretly pleased McCoy looked interested. with their reaction, dipped the small craft in a smooth descent towards the heart of "Of course, Doctor. All natural Tsai Kal and reducing speed let it glide resources are put to use and hydro~ over the treewtops. therapy is highly recommended by our Healers." His friends then realised that what had looked like meadows and woods "As it is on Earth, Mr Spock," \-I/ere actually acres of vegetable gardens McCoy pointed out. and fruit groves, criss-crossed by a network of irrigation channels which "Captain," Spock continued sporkled in the sun. changing the skimmer's course. "May I suggest lunch at the plantation? The "Gorgeous," Kirk commented in a place is worth a visit and the inn is low voice. "It's like finding the Promised famous for its home-made cuisine." Land after crossing the desert. Well done, Spock. Quite a surprise." "That sounds just right, Mr Spock. Let's go down and have a look around "l\nd so unexpected," McCoy and then lunch with the local produce." sOUJ1ded inved. "1 may be dumb but I never thought I would find such rich As the air-car approached a group plantations on your planet, Spock." of houses shaded by the trees and skimmed the roofwtops on the way to the "Where do you think tha t our fruit landing-pad, some people in the front and vegetables come from? Very little yard looked up and waved. Spock food is imported, Doctor. This farm is waggled the wings of the skimmer in only one out of many where there is answer and after making a U-turn, vvater 1-0 be found, of course." prepared to land.

"Thilfs the point," Kirk remarked. "I "Looks like· we're expected," the wonder where it comes from?" Captain said.

"From the range of mountains you "We are, Jim, I warned the estate can see over yonder." manager that we woul,d come today."

On their right, silhouetted again.st "Is this their property'" Ihe ruby sky, rose a jagged line of mountains which sloped gently down to "No. They only run the place," the valley and on the peaks of which Spack explained as the craft touched hung some wisps of vapour. down smoothly.

"Is that a volcano?" "J say, what are those animals over there?" asked the Doctor. He was looking "Yes, Captain or more precisely a out of the sidewport to where a dozen or volcanic massif. They are dormant at the so long-necked quadrupeds, in varying momen t and their presence accoun ts for shades of brown, and obviously several geothermal springs and hence a indifferent to their arrivaL were grazing 36 the bluish turf of a paddock. The Captain and McCoy paused and looked round in amazement. On a "They are chacks, Doctor. The planet noted for its aridity and scorching Vulcan equivalent of horses," Spock heat they found themselves practically replied as he cut the power. immersed in water. There was water running in open tiled canals by the flower "Horses?" McCoy scoffed. "More beds, gushing from fountains, spouting in like a cross behveen a camel and a rainbows, sprinkling from jets and giraffe." splashing onto onyxwpaved floors; tranquil water reflecting the blossoming "They remind me of Andean llamas trees overhead or sparkling like a mirror though they're much bigger," Kirk in the sun; water cascading down small remarked. "What a.re they raised for?" chutes and gurgling away through clay conduits. ll1e air was alive with the "Not for meat, r guess," the Doctor babbling of \va ter and birds. quipped. Kirk breathed in the scented air. "Certainly not," the Vulcan said "This is heavenly," he murmured. "The with a shudder. "In the past the chacks Promised Land, indeed." were the only means of transportation and some people still keep them for "None of this water is wasted," riding. Otherwise the main herds are Spack pointed out. "It is recycled and raised for the production of milk, wool used over again. Water is the most and dung." precious thing on Vulcan."

Kirk let out a chuckle, "DW1g? "Perhaps the Captain would like to Nothing's wasted here." look around," the Manager, Skirel, suggested. "Naturally, Captain," Spock replied, deadpan. "Shall we go? Do not forget "If it isn't too much h'ouble," Kirk your sun-visors. The glare is painful at said with a smile. this time of day." "Not at all. My sons will be pleased As the hatch slid open the heat hit to be of assistance," Skirel replied. He them like a blast from a furnace. With beckoned to two handsome youths who Spock in the lead the Enterprise officers had been watching the newMcomers with quickly crossed the parking area and curiosity and who were so much alike entered a hall where the Steward and his that they had to be twins. As they consort greeted them and offered the exchanged the ritual paired-finger salute, traditional drink of iced water. the Captain waS struck by their restrained charm, so much like that of his First In their neat pants and hmics these Officer, and curiously by a certain two looked more like a couple of likeness to Spack's features. electronic technicians rather than farmers. They both spoke fairly good Standard and The youths were introduced as willingly answered their visitors 5horan and Xan and were as Spock questions while they showed them pointed out, "well versed in agronomy through a succession of inner courts and and capable of answering all questions shaded galleries into the garden. about the plantation." Then he added, "If you will excuse me, Captain, I will leave 37 you and McCoy with the boys. have "Champion? A Terran name? some matters to talk over with Skirel." Why?" McCoy asked curiously.

Kirk willingly accepted the "Commander Spock gave him his arrnngement, inwardly wondering what name and it is well deserved." those 'matters' could be. As the two Vukans took themselves off he turned to "... and Champion is so spirited," his the twins. "Well, young men, it's up to brother added, "that only Spack can ride you now," he said pleasantly. him. He accepts no-one else, not even my father." "It is not possible to visit the whole estate within the time limit," one of them Kirks and McCoy's eyes met in said, "50, perhaps there is something surprise, This revealed quite a new facet p

"Whatever you say. What's the most "Does Spock come here often?" Kirk interesting?" McCoy said. "Just as long as asked the youths. we don't have to stand too long in the :->Ull.. Oh, and I would very much like to "Whenever he stays in ShiKahr, sir. :->t~e those chacks of yours, if it's possible." Unfortunately that is but rarely," he was told. "Certainly, Doctor McCoy. The mews where we keep the stallions and TIlen the Humans were shown the the mares with young are just down that solar power plant, the computerised \\fav." hydraulic centre, the cold stores and automated packing Wlits which were next In the functional and spotlessly to a transporter room from where the dean stables the visitors found the mares farm produce was beamed directly to the bleating softly and fussing over their markets, food stores and restaurants. young, who could hardly stand on their They were amused to hear that Taillevent shaky legs. They were touching little got its daily supply of fruit and cn~atures with soft fluffy pelts and liquid vegetables from the Tsai Kal fann. eves \""hich at once stole the tender heart of the Doctor. TIle Captain had SOme The organisation was simple and difficulty in dragging him away from the ingenious and showed Vulcan efficiency nursery to go and see the stallions who at its best. In this self-sufficient domain, could be heard kicking next door. Among as isolated in the mountains as a starship the fine-looking beasts, that pricked up in outer space, function and beauty were their ears at the visitors and begged for combined to an extreme degree and all tit-bits, Kirk noticed a handsome animal with the least possible disturbance to the with a glossy black coat, golden mane environment. They also had to hand it to and fiery brown eyes. the boys; they certainly had done their homework, were pleasantly articulate "Bones," he called. "Corne and look and made the visit quite enjoyable. at this one. He's a beauty."

"Indeed, sir. He is our best. His name is Champion," one of the twins McCoy, whose interest in high tech informed him. was not inexhaustible, accepted with alacrity the suggestion of a short tour of 38 the gardens. As they strolled along an open and revealed an amber heart alley of fruit trees he told Kirk in an brimming with juice. He deftly carved w1dertone, "Jim, I'm not sure if it is a out thick slices and offered them to his mirage or a belated hangover.. but guests. believe that I'm having hallucinations." McCoy, out of habit, whipped out "Bones? Whatever do you mean?" his mini-tricorder saying, "Just a minute, son. I'd better check if it's all right for us." "The twins, Jim. They sure make me see double. They look like tvV() peas "It is, sir. It is quite compatible with in a pod; dressed alike, moving alike, Human physiology," Xan assured him. speaking alike.. I'll bet that they even think alike. I find it positively weird." "All our produce is consumed quite safely bv the Ladv Amanda and the other Kirk nodded and grinned. "What Hun~an~ residing in ShiKahr," Shoran else can you expect with Vulcan stated. telepathic twins? Hard to tell which is which, isn't it?" Blue eyes met hazel ones crinkling with mirth. "There you are, Bones. What "You're telling me." McCoy rolled better guarantee do you need? I'll have his eyes skyward. some of tha t fruit, please and so will the Doctor... never mind his tricorder." Seeing that the tvvins had paused and were looking expectantly at them, The V ulean melon was indeed Kirk thought he should explain. "Sorry, delicious, sweet with a slightly bitter young men, but Doctor McCoy is a bit tang, and while they were abou t it more confused about you. It's difficult for us to iruit was picked, sliced and consumed tell you apart you see." with obvious relish. As Kirk washed his sticky hands in a fountain he asked the Both nodded gravely in assent. twin; about Amanda and how they knew "Perfectly, Captain. It is a common her. reaction among our visitors," one of the youths replied. Painting to his brother he "Our family belongs to the added, "He is Shoran and I am Xan." Xhnprsqzntwlfd Clan," he was told, "Our father is kin to Sarek." "Are you sure?" McCoy teased, peering at them. "Oh, I see. So you and Spack are related?" Kirk asked. "Positive, Doctor," they chorused solemnly. "We are cousins," was the smug reply. "Perhaps you would care to see the "Well, if you say so," the Doctor greenhouses? We have a number of grinned amiably, exotic plants acclimatised to Vulcan conditions, from which we have obtained Without more ado, they proceeded hybrids adapted to our climate." through the gardens and at the sight of all the fruit and greenery the Humans found "Sure, lead the way," the Captain their mouths watering. Sensing their said genially, ready for anything. thirst, Xan drew a knife from his belt, selected a bronze melon-like fruit, split it They walked through an air-lock 39 and entered a large conservatory roofed Kirk whistled in appreCiation. with smoked polarised glass. l1'1e dim "Remarkable, but as your landowner is so light and cool air humidified by mindful of his property why doesn't he sprinklers were a relief for the Humans. live here?" Taking off their sun-visors they followed their escorts along the lanes noting with The twins exchanged a glance. "He Jmusement such familiar vegetables as cannot, Captain," Xan rejoined, "because beans, peas, cucumbers and tomatoes of his obligations to Starfleet." ruIming along wires or climbing over trellises. What tickled McCoy most was Both Humans looked bemused. to find plots of carrots, potatoes and "Starfleet?" McCoy repeated. "Wait a c

·'Landlord, Captain·?" "I should have guessed sooner," Kirk chuckled. ··He means the person who owns the iarm," McCoy explained. "Does he let McCoy's eyes widened in disbelief. you run the place at your own discretion "Spock owns this place, you mean?" or does he make the decisions? From wh

"Even to close friends?" McCoy "Strawberries, Jim. We wish to asked in surprise. obtain a hardy variety capable of surviving and reproducing in our "Yes, Doctor. It is viewed as climate." ostentatious and in bad taste," was the reply. McCoy was amused. "Strawberries? How about that? Any particular reason, "Is that so? Thank you for telling Spock?" us, Xan. Seems we still have much to learn about your people," McCoy said I twas Skirel who replied. ., A very with an eyebrow cocked at Kirk. good reason, Doctor. Strawberries are the Lady Amanda's favoured fruit. Therefore The twins bowed wordlessly and we are trying to acclimatise the species." 5horan touched a plate to open a frosted­ glass door. The next moment the two "And I'll bet you want to give her a Humans found themselves in the Botany surprise," concluded the Captain with a lab of the Enterprise or - except for its size fond smile at his Vulcan friend. - its. exact counterpart. The three Vulcans standing in one corner of the room moved "Yes, Captain. So would apart at their arrival revealing Spock appreciate you not mentioning it to my sitting deeply absorbed over a mother. Now, I believe the meal is ready microscope. A few seconds went by in for us." He looked inquiringly at Skirel's silence before he looked up and said, consort, who moved to the door. "If you "Yes, r agree. This is definitely the most wish to freshen up," he added, 'TMur viable hybrid to be obtained so far. You will show you the way:' should continue the tests. A dozen samples on the H.34 plot should be Luncheon turned out to be another sufficient for now." new experience for the Starfleet officers. It was served on the inn's patio and in the "Agreed, Commander," the woman Vulcan mode; platters of vegetarian in white overalls replied, dishes, salads, fruits and drinks were served on a low table around which the Spock stood up and caught sight of family and guests reclined or sat crOSs~ his friends. "Captain, Doctor. I trust that legged on piles of hand-woven rugs your visit was profitable and your gUides whose colourful patterns reminded Kirk competent?" of Kilim carpets.

"They certainly were. We had a After the traditional cup of most instructive tour and I am verv much Karveesh, McCoy and Kirk realised that impressed with. your domain, Spock;' the they were ravenous. So without further ,1 ado they followed the Vulcans' lead and "Are you mad, Jim?" he heartilv'tucked in, with the assi..<;tance of expostulated. "All we'll get is a broken the ["\\,ins, who had appointed themselves neck and sW1stroke into the bargain. attendants, and with occasional Okay, suit yourself, but COW1t me out. I'll suggestions fronl Spock, who observed take the ride with the boys and meet you !'lIe voungsh~rs' little game with tolerant at the springs." annlsement. Apparently his Human guests and his young cousins had become Spack raised an eyeb.row in mock the best of friends and the simple fare of astonishment, "You surprise me, Doctor. the {,mn was \·vell appreciated. In fact the I was told that you were much taken with T sai Kal inn \-vas a popular place in the the chacks and I assumed that you would ,'Ired and was tdways well patronised. enjoy a pleasant ride across the hills."

Doctor McCoy pleasantly replete "In this sizzling heat? You must be ,lnd rela·xed was gtl.zing idly at the joking, Spock. No, you tvvo carry on with (Ustorners COining and going through the your joy-ride. I'll go as I said ... in the air­ inn vvlwn something made him sit up and ear with the twins." nudge Jim Kirk, who was reclining beside him. So that was that. Half an hour later, while the good Doctor was indulging in a "Huh' What's up, Bones?" the cat-nap, Captain Kirk, W1der Spack's I Ct'ptain asked. watchful guidance was given his first chack riding lesson - and that, as Kirk McCoy 'Nordlessly nodded at a soon found out, was a novel experience in group of women walking along the itself. gallery, one of whom was looking across in their direction. First, several animals were brought into the paddock and lined up in front of Kirk swore under his breath, "Here Kirk, who was then invited to touch each she is again." one in turn. "Why?" he asked in surprise. "Do "Yeah, TPring a.gain, Damn you want me to choose? I have no idea, nuisance.. like a recurrent nightmare," Spack. You'd better do it for me." the Doctor commented dryly. "No, Jim. It is not for us to choose, Spock, \vho was talking quietly it is for them. Before you can ride a vvith Skirel and T'Mul', saw nothing of the ehack, you must be accepted." by-phy. Looking up he said to his friends, "Captain, Doctor, you expressed Kirk's eyes widened. "Don't tell me the wish to ride a chack and to visit the they're telepathic?" he exclaimed. spa. Skirel proposes that the twins fly the

'That's it, Spock!" exclaimed a "Jim," Spack said in an aside, "we do delighted Kirk. "I think this one wants not use saddles on Vulcan. Can you ride me." He stroked the long furry neck and bare~back?" smiled at the gentle brown eyes. "Sure," Kirk replied confidently. "Yes, Captain. Obviously you have 'That's the way I used to ride as a kid, been accepted," Spock said, patting the back in Iowa. But what about a bridle glossy rump of the animal. "The test was and bit?" essential, since our chacks are not accustomed to outworlders. You should "Bits are proscribed here. They only have no difficulty riding Lak'Tur now." serve to hurt the animals' mouths, and they are pointless, since rider and mount "LakTur? Is that its ncpne? Does it are mentally linked. This why your body mean anything?" and hers must be in contact. LakTur will know what you want her to do but make "Yes, Captain," Xan said. "It means sure to give her simple, logical Morning Star because of the mark on her commands. Try to restrain any emotional forehead." impulse which will only confuse her."

"And it is 'her' name, Jim. This is a Kirk could not help laughing. "She's female," Spock pointed out, adding under Vulcan all right. Okay.. let's give it a his breath, "which might explain why she try." Putting his foot into Spock's locked accepted you so readily." hands he mounted the mare, grabbed her shoulder strap and gently kneed her Kirk shot him J suspicious look. forward. "And what's that suppose to mean, Mr After some false manoeuvres it did Champion stood perfectly sti ll. not take the Captain long to grasp the technique of chack-riding and also to "What's he doing, Jim?" McCoy adjust to Lak'Tur's rolling gait. It was muttered. "A mindlink or something?" tric kier to clear his mind of irrelevant thoughts and focus on precise orders but "Exactly, Bones. A rider and his 'Morning Star' was a gentle creature, and chack are mentally athIDed. These before long the two of them were trotting animals are telepaths." gaily around the paddock under the critical eye of the Vulcans. When at last "Are they now. And what about Ki rk brought Lak'Tur to a halt in front of you? Are you attuned also?" Spock, a mwmur of appreciation rose from his audience and brought a flush of "Sure," Kirk said proudly. "Come pleasure to his cheeks. and meet my lovely mare. Her name is 'Morning Star'. Pretty, isn't she?" However what gave him most sa tisfaction was the warm look of "A girl , eh? [might have known," approval in Spack's dark eyes as he asked was McCoy's caustic comment as he ran him, "Satisfied, Ca ptain?" his fing ers through the so ft wool of the mare's neck. "She sure looks dandy with "Delighted, Spock," Kirk grinned those fancy trimmings. Never thought giving a fond pat to the mare. "She's a that our sober Vulcans would favour such dear, and strangely enough r had no finery, though.. and that chack of difficulty in co mmW1i cating." Spack's, isn't he some sight?"

"It is the only way, Jim. One cannot Spock had vaulted onto Champion ride " chack unless one is mentally and was restraining him with a firm grip. attuned to it. " He watched Kirk mount his mare than called, "Ready, Captain?" '"$0 that's what they meant, back there in the stables, when they told us "Ready, Spock. Lead on." that onl y you can ride Champion. Rather choosy, isn't he? Why is that?" Kirk The chacks sprang forward and set . grinned. off a t top speed down the sandy road. The last thing McCoy heard was a "See A slanted eyebrow angled upward. you at the Springs," from Kirk, who "I could not say, Captain. A special waved cheerfully before vanishing from affini ty , probably," Spock blandly replied. view in the red glow of Eridani. No-one among the onlookers noticed the two Moments later, having taken leave women who had missed nothing of the of Skirel and fa mily and entrusted McCoy scene and now quietly slipped back to to the twins. Kirk and Spack went to the their air-car. iront yard where the grooms had led their chacks. As soon as he saw Spack, Champion, a vision of raven pelt and rnul ti-coloured trappings began to stomp Chapter 10 and fret. The stable boy let him go and he pra nced up to Spock and nu zzled his So far, Kirk decided, the ride had chest and shoulders. The Vulcan laid a been a real treat. After passing endless hand on the chack's brow c1nd at once groves and grainfields they had left the 44 road and climbed through pastures After a moment of spellbound peopled with herds of chacks, up to the contemplation, Jim Kirk broke the silence. heights where the thin air was "Beautiful. Spock, truly beautifuL Thank perceptibly cooler and the breathtaking you for letting me share this:' view covered the whole valley. A glimmer shone in the Vulcan's Although he felt sore from his lack eyes. "My pleasure, Jim," he said soberly. of practice - and saddle - the Captain Pointing downwards he added, "11,e enjoyed trotting alongside Spock, who building you can see at the foot of the proved to be an accomplished horseman, cliffs is our destination, the Tsai Kal or should one say 'chackman'? Not that watering place. Kirk fOWld that surprising; it had been a while since he had learned that whatever "A lso your property, I presume?" his First Officer undertook was achieved Kirk teased. with nothing short of Vulcan excellence. "Yes, Captain. Or, more precisely, a Come to think of it he was not joint ownership with Sa rek. I inherited displeased with his own performance, th is land from my grandfather, but since I and, for a first try at chack-riding he was am seldom here my father sees to the doing quite wel l. To be fair, he had to management, except for the farm, which hand a lot to lakTur; he had seldom is my personal concern." mounted a more sure-foqted mare. She was a joy to ride and Kirk felt perfectly "So I gathered, Spock, and it's sectrre as she daintily picked her way something you can be proud of." along the narrow tracks of the ridge. One false move, and he would surely cras h "I see nothing to be proud of. Jim. down into the ravine. He kept his eyes only take advantage of what nature has glued to Spock's back rocking with given me rhythmic ease to the motion of his mount, and let his mare take care of the rest. KiIk observed the raised eyebrow with a smile. "l1",t's one way of putting As they topped yet another summit it, Mr Spock," he remarked. The chacks a sulphurous smell wafted up to Kirk's stirred and stomped, then feeling that the nostrils, and after rounding an obsidian pause was over they s tarted down hill at outcrop an amazing view suddenly met a brisk pace. his eyes. The chacks paused of their own accord and gave them time to gaze at the As they were cautiously skirtin g a vast mesa which spread out at their feet number of bubbling mudsprings and as far as the foothi lls of the Tsai Dag. deceitfully still pools that reflected the red Above its bleached surface, pockmarked sky the drone of an engine caught their with bubbling springs, ghostlike wisps of attention. An air-car ca me swooping vapour floated and twisted in the breeze. from behind the hill to hover above their Adding to the eeriness of the scene heads. Kirk recognized Spock's family geysers roared spasmodically, spitting crest on its flank and pointed. "Loo k. out jets of steam which fanned out to Here they are. What good timing - and condense in myriads of droplets which look at McCoy. He's having a good time, formed sparkling rainbows against the isn't he?" backdrop of stark basaltic cliffs before splashing back down to their source. He waved back at the Doctor. whose smiling face and waving hand appeared through the view-port. After a "Oh good. Not that I'm few seconds the craft banked away and complaining, Bones. That trip was worth after a few circles over the geyser field it a few bruises. I wouldn.'t have missed it headed towards the Spa and disappeared for anything.. Oh great, just what I from view. need." And he gulped, with relish, the fruit juice just brought him by a waiter. When, some twenty minutes later, the two riders reached the establishment "Well, Spock, all I can say is that the and dismounted at the foot of the steps whole valley is worth the trip," McCoy they entrusted their chacks to. an declared. "Thanks to our friends here I attendant who led the animals off for a believe I've seen everything there is to be well-deserved treat of fodder and water. seen. 5horan and Xan have been the Kirk, after a parting pat for Lak'Tur, perfect hosts." followed Spock up the marble steps and renlarked, "That mental contact was a "It has been our pleasure, Doctor," rnemorable experience, Spock. She's a XaI) replied. "But there is still more to see lovely lady. I shall miss her." whenever you come back." "" "You don't have to, Jim. Lak'Tur is "Why, thank you, my boy. I'd like yours for the duration of our leave. to.. that is, if your landlord has no COlne to the farm any time you like." objection ?"

"Thank you, Spock. I think I'll take McCoy cocked an eye at Spock who vou at vour word. This vallev of yours is calmly replied, "No objection at all, the ide~l place for relaxa tion ~d I'm sure Doctor." McCoy will agree." "Yes, Bones, we're invited here any The stuil's led to a large terrace time we like," Kirk put in, "and I'm sure which extended along the whole facade of that I'll take advantage of the offer." the Spa and overlooked the site of the Tsai Kal Springs. At one end, protected By this time Eridani was slowly by c1 colourful canvas dwning, stood a slipping behind the Tsai Dag peaks and well patronised open-air cafe where the shadows were' lengthening over the Spock and his Captain found McCoy and field of springs. I t was time for the twins the twins relaxing as they enjoyed the to leave and take the chacks home. The view and several cold drinks. adieus were brief but heartfelt, and before going in the three men watched the "Well, well, look who's here, our young Vulcans leave with one riding brave travellers," said the Doctor. "Jim, LakTur and the other running alongside you must be exhausted. How do you Champion. This last was a sight which feel?" provoked the Doctor's righteous indigna tion. "Pretty good, thank you, Doctor - though a bit stiff and sore in the nether "1 can't believe it. That poor boy regions," Kirk replied as he sat down will have to run all the way home cautiollsly. because that dumb chack of you'rs won't accept anyone but you on its back? It's "A spell in the hot pools will Sl)on outrageous ... it's ... it's inhuman." dispel your discomfort, Captain," Spock assured him. "Quite right. Doctor. It is Vulcan," ·16

Spock said, deadpan. Seeing McCoy's "Spock," he asked in an undertone, face turn dangerously crimson he "do you think that we could ... ?" continued dryly, "Kindly remember that they are Vulcan. Have you not yet "Certainly. I was just about to learned the differences between Human suggest a dip in the pools. I am sure you and Vulcan physiology? Do not concern will find them pleasant and relaxing." yourself with the twins, Doctor. They are accustomed to exertion and they will take "That's just what I need at the turns riding Lak'Tur." moment," Kirk said happily. "What about you, Bones?" "Of all the callous, pointed-eared devils," McCoy grumbled darkly as they "Just what the Doctor ordered," walked across the hall to the Manager's McCoy grinned his approval. "I suppose office. these waters arc suitable for HU1n,lns?" he asked their escort. "Layoff, Bones," Kirk told him quietly. "You know he's righ t." "Yes, Doctor," the Vulcan replied. "Our best reference is the Lady Amanda, The Doctor shot him an exasperated \\'ho comes here regularly." look. "Yeah, I know! And that's what makes me so mad." "I expected no less," said :VIcCoy with a wink at the Captain. "Okay then, The Humans were duly introduced let's go and take a bath. One thing though to the Senior Healer and his staff and - we don't have bathing suits." were graciously invited to tour the geothermal facilities. The Doctor's "That is no problem, Doctor," Spock interest focused, naturally, on the medical remarked casually. "You won't need any. equipment and hydro-units which proved No-one wears sw'imsuits on Vulcan." -- the Vulcans' expertise in natural cures. The Captain's attention, on the other Taken aback McCoy looked around, hand, went on the aesthetics of the and his eyes widened as he realised that complex, its subdued lighting and tasteful none of the Vulcans by the pools wore combination of basalt and marble. If it anythi.ng but their graceful, unt1appabJe were not for the odour of sulphur which Vulcan dignity, clung to him like a Rigellian. bat then Kirk thought he might well recommend the "Any objections, Bones?" teased the Tsai Kal Spa and its first-class hotel for R Captain. "After all when in Rome ... " &R, "Oh, none at all. On the contrary, His appreciation grew perceptibly Jim! I find it most. .. cr ... instructive," when the medical attendant showed them McCoy replied good-humouredly. He into the caves, both natural and eyed appreciatively several attractive excavated, where people could relax or ladies as they slrolled nonchalantly by. exercise in the thermal pools. The sight "However I hope that we can at least of all those Vulcans bathing in the dark have a towel." mirrored pools which reflected the soft lights studding the obsidian vault walls "Towels are usually provided in the made him conscious of his aching changing rooms," Spock said, and looked muscles. inquiringly at the attendant who was staring bemusedly at McCoy. "Sir? Towels? Yes, sir. In the The target for her cold, searching locker rooms," he replied stiffly and led eyes was Spock. The Vulcan was leaning them back to the side rooms. against the smooth marble ledge, shoulders glistening in the steaming "Doctor," Spack said with a water, and was gazing steadily back at significcmt glance, "let me remind you the woman. The silence was so tense, so that physical appearance is unimportant palpable, that the good Doctor was drawn on Vulcan. No-one cares, no-one pays out of his nap. any attention and you would be well­ J.dvised to do likewise." "Sorry," he yawned blissfully, "1 think 1 fell asleep ... What? ... Oh damn'" "In other \-vords," Kirk added with a He fell silent and warily eyed the scene, vvink, "stop Jeering at the pretty girls, noting that no matter what Spock always Bones." managed to retain his dignity - even naked in a bubble pool. "Look who's talking," the Doctor scoffed. "James T. Kirk, the skirt-chaser TPring spoke a few words in of the galaxy." V ulcanur. Spack answered in the same language and she withdrew. There was "At least I didn>t shock that young an awkward pause; suddenly Spock sank medic green," Kirk retorted as he began to into the pool, a few seconds went by, then undress. he came up again, !lipping water from his head and said with assumed indifference, "Okay, okay. From now on I'll keep "My apologies, gentlemen, for this my eyes to myself," the Doctor grumbled. w1expected encounter. If you are rested He threw open his locker. "Now, where's we may proceed to the main pool." that towel?" "Just a minute, Spock," McCoy cut A few minutes later the three men in gruffly. 'Tm not so sure about were luxuriously soaking in a bubbling unexpected. Seems to me that your ex pool in companionable silence. The moist has a tendency to turn up much too often heat and soothing sound of the water for it to be coincidence." made for drowsiness and Jim Kirk felt his eyelids droop with fatigue. Footsteps Spock looked at him. "You may be padding softly on the pavement hardly right. Indeed, there has been a curious disturbed him, but when some gliding convergence of random factors." feet approached and stopped by their pool curiosity urged him to open a lazy McCoy snorted, "Mark mv words, eye. Spock. It's 'deliberate; she's beel~ chasing you all over since we arrived. Hasn't she, He jerked upright, wide awake, for Jim?" within arms reach stood a pair of long and shapely legs. Unconsciously, Kirk let "Bones is right, Spock. 1 don't know his gaze travel appreciatively upwards, how she obtains her information but she noting on the way the perfect figure certainly is persistent. She's always there, barely concealed by a large towel, then ... wherever we go. Does she still want to Good God.. that face! TPring. Kirk speak to you privately?" froze, then noticed that neither he nor McCoy sousing quietly beside him were "Yes. I agreed to meet her after we in her line of sight. have finished here." "Well," Kirk grimaced, "maybe "Granted, but then it is hardly you're right. Better see what she wants proper for a.. chattel to talk to an and get it over with. Okay, the last one in unbonded male in a public place." that pool will buy the drinks. Come on." "There are times and circumstances when such improper conduct is inevitable," she coolly declared. From the Tsai Kal's terrace Spock and TPring looked silently at the hot­ Spock's eyebrows crept up at this springs where they danced in the ruby unexpected statement. "Indeed? And haze of the Vulcan dusk. To Kirk and what has Stonn to say about that?" he McCoy, who were sitting in the cafe some enquired politely. distance away, they might as well have been a couple of statues as motionless as "Storm is away in the south, at the the potted trees lining the balustrade. moment," she replied curtly, dismissing her consort as a non-important matter. Forgetful of the glorious view the two men glanced unobtrusively in the "I see," he replied imperturbably, direction of the pair. As they had left the while through his mind ran J. quote changing rooms they had met T'Pring in remembered from long ago; 'Curio user the hall. and curiouser.'

She had barely spared them a He waited for her to make the next glance, just said to Spock, "It was agreed move but she merely stood in front of that I would see you alone." him, studying him appraisingly as if she had never seen him before or vv,:),s Spock had inclined his head in stiff discovering in him traits that she had formality and quietly said, "Captain, previously ignored. Doctor, please excuse me." On Kirk's nod of assent he had ushered the woman out With a touch of impatience, Spock of the hall. broke the silence. "You requested a meeting. I am here. Will you kindly McCoy grunted, took a swig of come to the point." K'Vass and asked, "Do you think they are carrying their tete-a-tete on by She looked away, her hands pressed telepathy?" together, seemingly collecting her thoughts. Then she met his gaze and Kirk shrugged, "Can't say, Bones, said, "Spock, it has come to my attention It's possible", No, look, they are talking," that you have not yet taken a consort."

Spock was now leaning against the "You are well informed," he balustrade and dispassionately studying remarked coldly. his fonner betrothed. "You wish to speak with me, T'Pring? Why did you not come "Who could not be when you and to the house of my parents?" your Captain are constantly in the news." T'Pring sounded sarcastic. 'That is the She gave him a scon1ful glance. "A price to pay for being a legend." chattel does not enter the house of an unbonded male, as you ought to know." Spock frowned. "[ doubt it," he There was a bitterness in her voice. retorted. "My private life is not a titting subject for the Intergalactic News. As for publici y rejected him and chosen his being a legend," he raised a wry eyebrow, Captain for champion. More, she had "was not that the reason you gave for known they were friends, she had sensed rejecting me?" his thoughts, his agony and had listened with contemptuous indifference as he "True." She paused, then, "1 should pleaded for Jim's life ... and now, she had have known better," she admitted. come to him with the proposal that they bond once more. He repressed a shudder Spock eyed the girl with curiosity. and tightly replied, "1 regret, TPring, that "Exactly \·vhat do you mean by that?" he it is out of the question." asked. She searched his face with TPring turned away and leaning on narrowed eyes. "Why?" she asked. "You the parapet gazed out into the gathering have no consort.. therefore why not?" twilight. "It has been some time," she said Her eyes turned cold as a thought'crossed presently, "since Stonn and I realised that her mind. "Or can the rumours be lrue, thl~ Kal-if~Fee wns an error. Our bonding about you and Kirk?" is a failure; we are mentally and physically incompatible. Stonn nO"longer Anger and embarrassment washed \vants me, nor do I want him." over Spock and he coldly replied, "I am surprised at you, T'Pring. A Vulcan "But," Spock sounded shocked, "the should pay no heed to gossip. My bonding is a total abiding commitment. reasons are simple. I am a Starfleet How can you?" Officer, my career lies in outer space. I cannot commit myself to a wife and She raised a disdainful evebrow. family." "That is what we are told. In rea-lity it is not so. Our decision is made. After T'Pring repressed some annoyance obtaining the Family's agreement we and tTied another tack. "The time will shall initiate the unbonding and then go come when your need for a mate will take our separate ways." precedence over all other considerations. What will you do ~hen? Where will you A pause ensued, then Spock said in find a suitable female? Have you ,1 neutTal tone of voice, "1 see. You have considered your situation, Spock?" both found out then that having is not so pleasing a thing as wanting." Her bold indiscretion took his breath away. Pon faIT was a deeply "I will admit that. However \",hat is personal matter. How dared she? "That lost on the one hand may be regained on will be dealt with at the proper time. The the other," T'Pring said pointedly. At problem is no concern of yours," he said Spock's blank expression she continued in a tone that ended the matter. "I regret, tranquilly, "Don't you see? You are still T'Pring, that I must decline your offer. I un bonded and! shall be so, soon. Ou]' must admit to some surprise, however. logical course of action is to start <1fresh Why do you make this proposal to me? on the course that was interrupted some Surely thc-'!re are many un bonded Vulcans years back. Do you not agree?" who \vould be honoured to wed with you? I do not understand." Spock stood frozen in disbelief. The \·vOn1<1n was incredible. She had T'Pring, deeply mortified, deliber

motivation was, always had been, self­ word was torn from him before he could interest. Now the exe~ution of her plans contain himself. "No '" Impossible." had proved to be more complex than she had anticipated. Spock was more T'Pring shot him a look of triumph. unapproachable than she had thought, "Has it not occurred to you that the link which made him even more desirable. which has joined us since childhood was Indeed, now that they were standing face never severed? Have vou never felt it stir to face, now that she felt the full force of in your mind? I hav~, Spock, more than his magnetism, T'Pring wondered how once. Our link has remained donnan t she could ever have wanted that dull, and now I feel it re-awakening, needing stolid Stann, how she could have given you." up all that Spock represented: esta tes, wealth, high position in Vulcan society, Spock refused to contemplate the notoriety in the Federation and above idea of bonding '\vith T'Pring and firmly all else, the man whom she now crushed the emotions that he felt determined to have. dangerously near the surface as he repeated, "That is impOSSible. It must be In truth, T'Pring had never realised, some unconscious delusion due to .. until now, how dangerously attractive Spock was. She could not let him go; she ":\re you implying that I am insane. still had one argument which logically Spock?" she cut in, eyes blazing with would make him reconsider his refusal. anger. "It is you who are deluding Now was the time to bring to a yourself. The bond is still there. Let me conclusion the scheme she had so prove it to you." She rnoved closer, h

Spock's stern expression told the reaction he got from his friend. He girl that she had failed; her schemes, her attempted to reach the Vulcan's mind, but prospects were dashed to the grow1d all Spock had locked himself away behind at once. Blinded by hurt pride, she failed his men tal shields. Chilled by the lack of to see the compassion in Spock's eyes and response, Kirk slowly fell back and was said curtly, "So be it, Spock, but mind that about to withdraw when, suddenly, the you do not regret your decision." forbidding barriers were dropped and the Turning on her heel, she stalked away familiar presence touched his mind. without a backward glance. /} im, I regret ... I Call1/ot ... / He faltered, From the cafe, McCoy and the and Kirk felt with a shock the hurt and Captain \vatched TPring march blindly confusion raging in that usually calm and past" them and exchanged a glance. serene mind.

'Did you see that, Jim?" the Doctor "T'Pring?" he asked gently. muttered. "Yes ... "Spock struggled for control, "'Mmmm ... something went wrong. then whispered, "Jim, I never thought \"I.!onder.. .. ' Kirk mused, and looked ['hat it Vulcitn could be so irrational, so uncertainly at Spock's silhouette who was spitefuL" know apparently staring out into the dark. "Well:' Kirk replied philosophically, "now you know. Coming from that girl, "You bet," McCoy retorted. "1 don't nothing could surprise me. What exactly want to jump to conclusions but TPring did she want?" looked like a girl who'd just been jilted." Spock sighed. "She said that she Kirk looked. startled, then with itnd Stonn intended to part so she wished another glance at Spock, got to his feet me to renew our bonding.. and 1 and said, "Could be, Bones. I think I'll go declined." and see." "Good Heavens. She had the gall to "Jim, are you sure?" the Doctor said ask you that after what she did? The quietly. "You know our Vulcan. Don't nerve of the girl! Good for you, Spack. I you think he would rather be left alone"?" suppose she'll leave you alone now." A thought crossed his mind and he "} believe he needs help, Bones." chuckled. "McCoy was right on the mark." McCoy shrugged and watched the Captain walk to the edge of the terrace "McCoy?" An eyebrow shot up in where Spock brooded in solitary dismay. "What has McCoy .. .?" contemplation. The Vulcan remained motionless when Kirk paused at his side "Nothing. Except guess that you and rested his arms on the parapet. A had turned T'Pt·ing down." moment of uneasy silence went bv, then Kirk asked tentatively, "Spock.. Spock? "Indeed?" The other eyebrow joined j\re you all right?" its mate in the dark bangs. "How very perceptive of the Doctor. Human There \vas no reply. Kirk might intuition, I suppose?" have been parsecs away for all the "Must be," Kirk laughed, glad to see knew irom experience that there was Spock recover his composure. "Do you nothing better than a good workout to mean to stay here all night? Come on, release tension. let's go home." After leaving McCoy in the care of Spock straightened up and with TLian's assistant, Spock shepherded his another sigh, replied, "Yes, Jim. Let us go Captain across the Campus to the home." Academy Sports Centre which lay beyond the Botanic Garden. A riot of colours and fragrances greeted them as they strolled along the paths and Spock Chapter 11 was irresistibly reminded of a green-eyed ladv who had once walked bv his side It waS still early the next dav when unlier these verv trees. He "';'<1S d.rawn the trio alighted fro~ the air-car fn front away from thes~ pleasant memories by of the Science Academv. Little had been Kirk who, favourably impressed by the said during the sho;t flight as their park, insisted that McCoy would love it. thoughts had unconsciously drifted back to the previous day. "You know, Spock, somehow, never associated Vulcan with the Late last night they had discussed concepts of farming and gardeni.ng. I the TPring affair in a quiet after-dinner don't knmv whv ... I think that I had better chat by the pooL Spock, overcoming his revise my judg;nent about your folks,"" he ilU1ate reticence, had reported the said with a mischievous look. encounter to his Captain and McCoy. The fact that both had been witnesses and "If vou believed all VuJcans to be actors in the drama enacted at Koon-ut­ diplomat~, scientists il.l1d computer kal-if-fee entitled them to learn of experts, then yes, Jim, I think you T'Pring's presumptions and arguments. should." His look was returned in good The telling had, not unexpectedly, measure. sparked off some very biting comments from the Doctor. Kirk's irrepressible laughter caused some disturbance among the local fauna Conjecture as to T'Pring's next and drew someone's attention. From move, if any, were put forward by both behind a hedge of blooming shrubs ZI dry Humans, but Spock had refused to join in voice commented, "If I ZlIn not mistaken the illogical game of speculation and only a Human can produce that kind of finally they had, by mutual consent, syncopated sound. Interesting." dropped the subject. To all intents and purposes the incident was closed. Taken

"Greetings, my boy," replied non-conformist with an inclination to Professor Sradek, who looked the same as infringe the rules when necessary. But ever if not slightly more wrinkled. "So, then, Vulcans are not all cast in the same you are back among us, and on leave I am mould - as you ought to know," told. Will you find time to visit your old teacher?" "Sure, Mr Spock, and with a prime example at my side I have no excuse, "r shall be honoured, sir." have 11" Kirk rejoined cheerfully.

"Come anv time. I have little When the MO friends walked into activity now; ~ few seminars, a few the Sports Centre Kirk paused, impressed classes. A.nd who is this young man? by what he saw. The Enterprise could The Captain of the Enterprise, I take pride in her well-fitted sports rooms presurne." but she could certainly not compete with this equipment, some of which was "Yes, sir. This is Captain James entirely new to him. As he watched Kirk. Jim, Proft'!ssor Sradek was mv Vulca~s engaging in various athletic history teacher and my mentor when 'r exercises and combat simulations Kirk was a student." was struck anew by the ilmate elegance which masked their fabulous strength, Kirk bowed, very conscious of the and which never falled to rouse his scrutiny to which he was being subjected grudging admiration when he wrestled by a pair of sharp eyes. "r am honoured, with his First Officer, Professor." "Captain ?" "Are you? That is gratifying indeed from an officer of your reputation," was He turned round and was Sr<1dek's caustic comment. "And what introduced to Shundak, the Arms Master brings YOll two young men to this and Director of the establishment. He garden? An interest in botany?" was a middle-aged man of impressive physique and faultless courtesy who "We are on our way to the raised a sceptical eyebrow when told that Gymnasium," Spock replied, "The the Human visitor meant to participate Captain is desirous of testing his skill at and not just watch from the sidelines, VUlci'll1 wrestling." When Kirk and Spack exited the "Really?" The Professor looked changing cubicles, dad, in the de rigeur mildly interested, "Then I will not keep sleeveless jacket and loose breeches, you, Be sure to bring your Captain along Shundak gave then an appraising once­ when you come, Spock." over then pointed to one of the mats. After a few warm-up exercises the pair "1 will, Sradek. Lash'D'Oro V'Suka," swung into action, They launched into a light version of the V'Asumi combat, one "1 like your old teacher, Spock," the which Spack had taught his Captain on Captain declared once they were well out board the Enterprise. He was an excellent l)f earshot. "He has a sense of humour. teacher and Kirk, very conscious of R,1ther an unusual character for a Vulcan, Shundak's expert eye upon them, strove isn't he?" to do him credit.

"Indeed. Sradek has ,1l\,,'avs been a The novel sight of a V'Asumi fought 54 by a Human and a Vulcan in this sanctum As soon as he stood at Spock's of Vulcan martial arts was bound to shoulder, Kirk felt a cold wave of hostilitv attract curiosity, and they soon found hit him like a slap in the face. With ~l themselves watched by quite an audience. feeling of dejaNvu, he asked airily, Their perfonnance was apparently judged "Everything all right, Mr Spock?" acceptable for when, after a last throw and shoulder roll, they stood up and "Perfectly, Captain," Spock replied bowed, several young men claimed the calmly. honour of standing up to them. Kirk found himself engaged with a strapping Kirk was not welcome. Tha t much fellow while Spock joined some others in was obvious to judge from the hostile a sword fight. stares turned on him, Uncaring, he gave the Vulcans as good as he got with One 01 The Captain was soon too occupied his famous command glares designed to in dealing with the full Vulcan treatment freeze incompetent subordinates ,)]1 the to pay attention to Spack's doings. spot. The Vulcans' stares hIm.cd i'lfctk Despite his physical fitness and Fleet and Storm, bigger and older than Kirk training Kirk was eventually pinned remembered him, pushed forward, down on the mat and had to acknowledge exuding scorn. defeat. The Vulcan pulled him to his feet and they were making their bows when "What is Kirk doing here? This is Kirk suddenly felt a subtle change of no place for outworlders, Spock. Tell the atmosphere around him. Curiously, the Human to leave." air seemed to be loaded with tension, which should have been downright For Spock's sake Kirk bit back an impossible with unemotional Vulcans. angry retort and asked under his breath, "Spock, need some help?" Kirk spun round and saw Spock standing stock still facing several men. "No, Jim. Please stay out of this. To his Captain, his posture and cool, aloof have to settle this matter alone," Spock expression were clear evidence of an icy firmly replied. self-control retained despite extreme provocation. The Captain knew better than to insist. He laid a hand on his friend's "What's wrong? What's up'" Kirk shoulder, then drew back a few steps and asked the Vulcans around him. found the Arms Master standing at his shoulder and looking none too pleased Eyebrows went up. "Unknown, with the situation. Captain Kirk." "Captain Kirk," he intimated in a "Who are those people?" he insisted. low voice, "I recommend that you pay "Do you know them?" heed to Spock's word,;, Whatever happens, do not interfere." Someone replied reluctantly. "Yes, some of them ... Trall, Soniak, X'our, also "I understand, but I am not in the Stonn, Sopeck.. ... habit of letting my friends face tTouble alone," "Storm?" Kirk cut In. "Did vou say Stonn? Damn!" He strode off, lea~ing the "Your loyalty is commendable, Kirk, Vulcans staring after him. but do not be concerned for Spock," 55

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Shundak replied grimly. "Whatever the to follow but a hand caught at his arm outcome, I shall see to it that the rules are and a voice said, not unkin.dly, in his ear, observed. I shall allow no-one to be "No, Kirk. Do not go." wronged in my Gynmasium." "What the hell is going on?" he Kirk nodded appreciatively. At insisted in exasperation. "What was least he could rely on the dour Vulcan for that?" support. "Thank you, Shundak," he quietly replied while all the time he was "It was the Kun K' Alaish Kae, the watching Spock, who was calmly and Warrior's Challenge, Captain." steadily denying whatever it was that Stonn was accusing him of. The hall fairly crackled with pent­ up tension, as if ail the passions the They were speaking in their native Vulcans were not supposed to have were tongue and Kirk chafed at not being able about to explode. Kirk felt sure as he to understand exactly what Spock was looked at the men around him that it being blamed for. His lean face remained would not take much to crack the Vulcan dark and inscrutable despite the veneer and let the wild instincts of their provocation of Stonn and his supporters, clans surge up from their past. ,-\.11 eyes who were visibly trying to force Spock were now fixed on Spock, watching, out of his maddening calm. waiting ior his move. He just stood there, icily remote, keeping Stonn locked in his Who said that Vulams are peace-lauillg steely glare. creatures? Kirk thought as his friend flinched under a particularly vicious Stann hesitated, then urged on by attack. "What was that' What did they his followers he again shouted the say?" he demanded in frustration at his challenge. helplessness. "Kun K'Alaish Kae! You cowering "SteadY, Kirk. Be silent," Shundak half-breed!" and he raised a menacing grunted, gri~ and watchful. hand ready to strike again.

A murmur of shocked disapproval The insult stung Spock into action. arose from the onlookers when Stann With lightning speed, he gripped Stonn's again threw defiant words at Spack who, fist and slowly, inexorably forced it down. though as white as a sheet, remained His dark eyes never left the other's face as impassive and quietly repeated a flat he spoke the ritual acceptance. denial. Incensed with the half-Vulcan's tight self-control, Stonn shouted what "Kun KAlaish Farr!" Then sounded like a ritual curse and releasing his grip Spock stepped back and deliberately hit Spock with a sweeping let Shundak take over. back-handed blow that would have felled an ox. No-one tried to stop the Captain when he sidled up to his friend und A wave of cold indignation ran whispered, "Spock, what does all this around the hall and Kirk felt his blood mean, for Heaven's sake? Are you going boil. Spock stood like a rock, eyes blazing to fight a duel?" in his ashen face. Shundak, looking outraged, was now at Spock's side and he "Yes, Captain. I accepted the spoke briet1y in a stem voice. Kirk made challenge." 57

"Whv? What for? Has Stonn gone "Can you imagine these righteous off his hea'd"?" Vulcans breaking the law without the least compunction." "Not here, Captain, pleas(~. Later." Spock cut in hastily. "Bu t duels vvere abolished ages ago in the Federation, This is grotesque," "All right, later then. But I want McCoy argued. some answers, Mr Spock," Kirk retorted. If his First Officer was to risk his life in 'True, but this is a Vulcan affair of cornbat un Vulcan he had to know why. honour, Bones."

I t took SOlne time for Shundak and "Isn't tll.is something, We've hardly Stann's supporters to (onfer about the bc.::en here (our days before Spock gets necessary arrangenlents and Kirk had to hirnself embroiled in a ritual fight. Why curb his impatience. \iVhen Spock finally didn't' he refuse the challenge in the first came over and calmly said, "I am sorry to place?" McCoy asked in exasperation. have kept you lNait-ing, Jim. We are finished now and I believe it is lime for us "He couldn't, Bones, Shundak said to join McCoy in the Cafeteria," the that Spock was honour-bound to accept. Captain (elt definitely downtrodden, a His reputation and that of the Clan were condition he disliked intensely. ,H stake. He did what was expected of him," Kirk replied bitterly. "And that's all you got to say?" he protest<.::d. "It was the logical thing to do," \tlcCoy quoted sarcastically, "Since it's "Capt<1in Kirk," Shundak put in illegal, how can they get away it? By now solemnly, "no 11101'12 must be said on the it n1ust be all over ShiKahr." subject. You must make no mention of the combaL" "I think not, Bones. According to their code of honour anv witnesses to a "But at lc:~ast, tell me where.. tlJ1d Warrior's Challenge a-re pledged to \"/hen.·' s~~crecy ,"

,-\ look, touched \'vith "Yeah, but vou're not Vulcan, Jim, embarrJSSl11ent passed between the hvo Wha t is there to stop you from reporting Vulcans. "I regret, Captain, we cannot" it to the authorities and preventing this Spock t-old him. nonsense?"

"Why, (or Pete's sake?" Kirk "I can't," Kirk said tightly, "Spock demanded, made me swear not to breathe a word to anyone, except you, and you can be sure Shundak looked at him and that the household here won't speak So dedar(~d, "13l~cause the D'A.likTal duel is it looks like we are confronted with a no,,\' illeg('d, Captain." situation over which we have no control and which may cost Spock his life. Damn!" He hit the chair arm in exasperation. "It's so frustrating! Why." "",and that, Bones, had me !1oored, why t-his challenge? It doesn't make good ,md proper," Kirk (oncluded to a sense," bemused Doctor, several hours later. 58

"Are you sure, Jim?" the Doctor Staurnk hesitated a fraction of a asked shrewdly, "Looks to me like a put­ second, then replied, "No, sir. As c1 up job.. Oh, thank you, Staurak. Just female she is not entitled to make a what we need/' he said to the old Vulcan, decision on the matter. Affairs of honour who had set a tray down beside them, are restricted to male involvement only."

"Has Spock come back, yet?" Kirk asked. "Oh? So, who is the male Head of the Clan'" "Not yet, Captain. You will be infonned the moment he returns." "Sarek, Captain."

"Sorry,Staurak." Kirk smiled at the Kirk exchanged a crestfallen iODk austere face. "You W1derstand we are with McCoy who said heavily, "And worried about Spock," Sarek is parsecs away, Jim."

The Vulcan bent a wise gaze upon "Blast!" Kirk muttered. "When do them. "I do, sir, so I took the liberty of you expect him back? Another couple of serving drinks. Humans are often more days? And the combat?" patient when they have something to do." "Tomorrow at daybreak," Staul'ak "Very well observed, Staurak. How replied, is TMina?" McCoy asked kindly, The Doctor was well aware of the old couple's "Sarek will be too btl'. There's no concern about the affair although they way ... ," Kirk mused, "unless.. Who would have died rather than admit to it, comes next to San~k in the Clan's Staurak's face took on a remote hierarchy?" he asked hopefully. expression. "She is.. distressed, Doctor; quite distressed," he admitted simply and A barely audible sigh escaped the turned to go. old Vulcan who replied, "Spock, sir,"

Kirk stopped him. "Staurak, wait, "Well that's that, Jim, Back to please. I'm told this duel is illegal but square one," McCoy commented. "Seems that it has to happen because it is an old there's nothing we can do." tradition. Isn't there someone in Shikahr with enough authority to enforce the law "There must be, Bones, There has to and forbid the fight without transgressing be!" Kirk repeated angrily, "I can't believe your traditions? Someone of your Clan?" that..

"No, Captain. The Clan has been "The Doctor is right, Captain," a wronged and challenged in the person of deep voice said behind them, "Nothing Spack and it must be avenged in ritual can or should be done against our combat," the Vulcan said stiffly. lraditions." Spock, with his usual silent grace, had come in unnoticed, He took "J understand that," Kirk said off his cloak and handed it St('\ur('\k before impatiently, "but, dammit, this is Spock sitting down next to Kirk. we're talking about! TPau is the Head of the Family, isn't she? I'm sure she could "Shall r bring you a drink, Spack?" prevent the fight." Staurak asked, 59

"Yes, One of your 'specials', please, could have testified for you/' Kirk Staurak left leaving Spock to cope with insisted, his emotional friends, Spock shook his head. "Useless, Staurak WuS hardly out of hearing Jim, As an outworlder and my friend range when the Captain pounced. "Now, your word would have no value." Spock, no more evasions, no more mvsleries, I vvant the truth, You'll tell me "You know," McCoy put in, "what what this is all about or I'll report you to beats me is that T'Pring could tell such a the High Council." pack of lies and get away with it. However, the duel still doesn't make Spock knev<\' that Kirk's sharpness sense, I mean, why did Stonn challenge covered his genuine concern and he did you since he is seeking a divorce? Surely his best to ease the tension. "Blackmail, this is a golden opportunity to get rid of Captain?" he replied, {~yebrow on the rise, T'Pring?" "Unvl/orthy of you and quite unnecessary, 1 ,1ssurc vou," "According to Stonn, Doctor, there is no question of a separation," Spock "Js if? Then out with it," Kirk replied dryly. denla.nded, Kirk whistled. "So .. another lie of His First Officer leisurely crossed T'Pring's? Or do you think it was wishful his legs and joined his fingertips in their thinking?" custon1i.uy lecturing position, but the ()thers could tell that beneath his outward Spock raised a disillusioned composure he was under considerable eyebrow, "1 could not say, Captain. I find pressure, myself totally incapable of fonning an opinion on T'Pring's reasoning and "1 t seems," Spock declared in a motivations." carefully neutral voice, "that I am accused df <1tterl1pting to seduce T'Pring and to "No wonder," McCoy snorted. "I'm force a mindmeld in order to break her sure tha t anyone else as devious and bond with Stonn," unpredictable' as that girl would be hard to find. Who said that Vulcans never lie? The {,-vo Humans blinked. "But.. Or is it a myth?" bUL thars insane!" Kirk expostulated. "Who could believe that yarn?" "No, McCoy, Vulcans do not lie, However this one has done and as I have "Stonn and his friends, obviously," learnt to my cost, she is an expert." The was the calm reply, bitterness in Spock's voice sounded like an echo of the shock and betrayal he had "That's pure slander. Didn't you tell felt that morning when he had realised Storm what she's been doing? Didn't you what TPring had done. tell them the truth?" A pause followed, then McCoy "I did, but as you know, 'there are cleared his throat and said heartily, "At none so deaf as those who will not hear', any rate, T'Pring must be the exception They did not believe me," which proves the rule judging by the very nice ladies we have met in ShiKahr so "The'n why didn't you call me? far." The knowing look he shot at Spock 60

was received with studied indifference. purpose would I have in keeping those weapons if I could not, as you say, The Vulcan merely said, "Perhaps 'handle' them?" you are right, Doctor." He got to his feet. "Now, if you will excuse me, I have Kirk and McCoy traded it startled preparations to make." glunce at the thought of the deadly armament that bedecked Spock's cabin Kirk was also on his feet. "Spock, wall. So much for non~violent Vulcans, are you sme that you want to go through with this?" "Quite," the Captain said soberly. "Now, Spock, is there anything we can do "It- is not what I want but what I in the meantime?" must do, Captain. I cannot shirk my duty," was the cool reply. "No, )irn. Staurak is quite capable of attending to my needs and the Fa!nilv "Granted, but isn't there a m.on~ ('lrInour1' is well provided." logical, more civilised way to settle this quarrel? Kirk argued. "Don't YOU set~ "Right. One last thing then; vvhat that both you and Storm are playing right time do we leave"?" Kirk enquired, into TPring's hands?" Both slanted ~"yebrows climbed !o "\ do. Unfortunately the only Spock's hairline. "We, Captain?" <1J"lSWer to a Kun K'Alaish Kae is a duel." "Of course! You don't irnagine that "For Heaven's sake, Spock, why do we're going to let you go to that cut~ you have to conform with these stupid, throat party alone, do YOu?" Kirk bloodv customs of vours"?" Meeov retorted. "I f memory serves one needs want~d to know.' , both a second and a physicinJ1 in a dueJ."

Spock drew himself up with dlonf "I'm sorry, Captain, but that is oul dignity. "Because I am Vulcan, Doctor. ot the question," Spock stated stiffly Do not iorget thaL" "On the ('ont1'<1.r1', Mr Spock," Kirk Kirk and McCoy exchanged a bristled, "that is very much the question. resigned look, "Okay then," the Captain Either we go with you or there will be no sighed. " If there's no way to stop you, duel and that's flat." you can at least tell us what kind of fight the O'Alik'Tal you spoke about is." Spock paled perceptibly. "That is impossible, Captain. You are not Vulcan, "It is a ritual combat with sword you cannot be my second and a challenge and dagger; tT<:Iditional weapons similar given and accepted cannot be cnncelled to those I have in my qunrters." by anyone."

"Oh?" The Doctor looked surprised. "Oh? What about Sarek?" Kirk shot "You mean that you can handle all that back. Jrsenal of yours? I thought that YOll only had them up for show." Spock stiffened. "Sarek? How do you know about Sarek?" A disdainful eyebrow lifted in Jnswer, "Be logicaL Doctor. Whal "lnforrn,ltion received," the Captain 61

coun tef(~d. which concerns Vulcan rites and ethics. hate to admit it, but Spock is right. You "It is irrelevant. Sarek is away," can't order him about on his own land," Spock stated curtly. Kirk paced the room restlessly for a "That much we know. Therefore, few moments, then shrugged hopelessly. we are going with you. Dammit, Spack. "Do you think I don't know that, Bones? ] We went to your marriage ceremony, was just trying to ... Oh, damn!" He why can't we go to its aftermath?" slumped into a chair and wiped a weary hand across his face. "Captain," Spock said tightly, as outworlders you cannot attend a ritual McCoy eyed him warily then combat and that is final." remarked, "Don·t you think that you were il. bit hard on Spack? I mean, he has Kirk realised that as far as Spock enough to cope with just now, Vulcans was concerned that was the end of the and alt without having our emotions matter but as a last resort he tried another thrown at him into the bargain." tuck. "Very welL" he said with a shrug. "You force me to pull rank, Mr Spock. As "] know. But why can't] go with your senior officer I can order you to him? We've gone through hell and high decline combat and traditions be damned. water together; why do ] now have to let Or I can report you to Starfleet or the him go alone?" Vulcan fligh CowKil and have you put under arrest for the illegal use of "You heard him, Jim. This is purely dangerous weapons, and I have a good a Vulcan matter and I don't think there is mind to do just that. You see - I have the a danm thing we can do," McCoy replied means to stop you." fatalistically.

For a few painful heartbeats Spack, "I can't believe that, Bones. There's his face a frozen mask, stared at his got to be a way," Kirk insisted and Captain. Then, he said tonelessly, "You resumed his anxious pacing. cannol, Captain. This is Vulcan." Turning on his heel he stalked out leaving Kirk seething with frustration. At about the same time a young Into the tense silence a quiet voice woman was repeating the same words fell, "He's right, Jim." Doctor McCoy had with the same determination. "No. It is listened to his friends' altercation with impossible. Surely there must be a way." growing concern and he now thought he She was sitting by her telescreen unit, still should intervene. "He is right. This is not in shock from a confidential the Enterprise, this is Vulcan. You are on communication from T'Lian, her mother's their turf, Captain." sister. The Healer had been apprised of the Kun K'Alaish Kae by one of her Furious, Kirk rounded on McCoy, medical assistants who had witnessed the '·Is that all you've got to say? How about incident and who, for obvious reasons, backing me up"?" had deemed it his duty to report to his senior. T'Lian aware of TKahalin's .'J im, be reasonable. You should regard for Spock had in her turn judged knmv bv now that you (In'1" win any that she ought to be infonned and had arpjument \vith a Vulcan, much less one told her, in confidence, how Spock had 62 been confronted and challenged in the quietly with TUan at dinner but Gymnasium. somehow cOIw(~ying the impression that his attention had been on herself; and this According to TLian's informant the very day, when he and the Captain had reason for Stonn's incredible action was unexpectedly turned up at the Cafeteria, not quite dear but he had believed that she had several times surprised him Stonn's bondmate was involved. TLian looking at her with an intensity which had added that although she strongly had made her wonder ... as if he wished to disapproved of these secret Warrior rites imprint her features in his memory, as if there was unfortunately nothing she it were the last time he would see her. (ould do except have her intensive care unit ready [or an emergency. This was all Her heart missed a beal. Perhaps it quite regrettable but then men were had been for the last time. Immediatelv strange crealures indeed, she rebelled al the thought. Spock l){ Vulcan, risking his life in an archaic fight With those Ins!' words the Healer that no-one had heard of since Surak? It had dosed contact, leaving her niece did not bear thinking about, all the 1110re stunned by the news. Although she since TPring seemed to b(~ the cause. agreed with TUan's disillusioned comm.ent, TKahalin could not accept the At that name, a surge of inevitability of the combat. "Think! unreasoning resentment washed Over Think. Surely, something can be done," T'Kahalin. That woman had rejected she whispered, racking her brain for Spock some years ago, Could she not inspiration, for any expedient. Alas, she leave him alone now? Obviously T'Pring had to admit that faced by Vulcan had found a way to set Stonn against tradition she was helpless and all the Spock, but for what obscure reason only more so since she was sworn to secrecy. she could tell. TKahalin was sure that TPring's astute mind had orchestrated As that knowledge filled her with the whole plot and that she had pitted her anger and despair she suddenly realised bondma te against her former betrothed that she was being irrational. If there was just as she had earlier managed to place nothing to be done, why did she feel Spock in opposition to his Captain. outrage ... distress? TI1ese were emotions Naturally she knew how to keep her she should not allow herself to strategy within the law and within her experience.. and yet, her feverish mind own rights. No-one, not even T'Pau unconsciously conjured up an image of could find any fault to .. Spock lying slain on the red sand. She could not repress a shudder. Illogical. TKahalin sat up, suddenly struck Unworthy of a Vulcan but.. was it? As a by an inspiration. Trau! Yes of course; Vulcan did she not owe it to herself tp TPau as the Head of the Clan must be prevent a wrong from being done? Was able to do something to prevent the it not her duty to her pe()ple to spare combat. Wasn't she the Guardian of the them the loss of their most brilliant son, Traditions? TPau had to be told at once; the man who had been awarded the her promise ot secrecy surely did not Surak Prize medal by the Supreme include T'Pau? Council? First, though, she had to learn more Again memories flooded unbidden about the Warrior'S ritual combats, into her mind: Spock .. Spock gazing at Quickly she used her computer to <1ccess her across a crowded hall; Spock talking the library'S archival banks. An 63 enormous amount or data concerning the Chapter 12 Pre~Reformation Clans and Brotherhoods was produced and her computer sorted it, Silence reigned in Sarek's house, a reducing it to the essentials, namely that silence only occasionally broken by the ritual fights always took place at stealthy footsteps and hushed voices. dawn at an appointed place known only to the participants. "It's as if they were already in mournmg, Kirk commented bitterly TKahalin leaned back in her chair while he sipped his coffee in Amanda's <1nd sighed. Omvn .. she mused, it is 'tue!! sitting room. ii/it! Ihe 1I1:~hf l/UlU. There is I/O time to spare. She punched TPau's co~ordinates in and "Jim, you really are over-reacting," \vas confron ted by the sour face of a McCoy chided, swirling brandy in a secretarv who stated that TPau was balloon glass. "Why are you assuming engaged

"It is very lat(~. T'Pau will not "Well did see him at that receive you," was the stern reply. ceremony, and I admit that then I had my doubts as Spack was debilitated with the "She will because it is a matter of blood fever, but it's different now, Jim. life and death. Please tell her to expect He does have a fighting chance to win, me in half an hour," TKahalin said with believe me." confidence. "Anything to raise my spirits, eh, "Very well. I shall do so," replied Doctor?" Kirk remarked. the disapproving secretary, who now had a gleam of curiosity in his eyes. "It's the simple truth, Captain. I do know what I am talking about," McCoy TKahalin switched off the video­ replied. "Where's he gone? He vanished corn with ,1 snap and swiftly changed into like a ghost after dinner." cOITlfortable clothes and with a warm, hooded cloak over her shoulders went to "He said something about retiring the back of the house where she had to meditate," Kirk replied, staring into the pnrked her small air-car. As she sped log fire the servants had kindled for them. through the night towards T'Pau's house she marshalled her thoughts in McCoy watched him covertly, preparation for her interview with the observing that his mood was becoming formidable old lady. Curiously it never increasingly gloomy. Dinner had not l)ccurred to her that TPau might refuse to been particularly cheerful and no wonder, receive her or decline to intervene; nor but the strain between his two friends that Spock might take exception to her seemed to have gone, thank goodness. interference in an affair of honour. She One thing had somewhat lightened the was so determined to thwart TPring's general mood though when in answer to mnchinations that she never gave it a a question from McCoy, Spack had thought. replied that he was prepared and fit, 64

having spent a couple of hours practising speak Vukanur," Kirk countered. in Sarek's armoury. A young manHservant came in, "By yourself?" jim had asked, turned on the device and spoke a few looking surprised. "You should have words. I-laving switched it off he'd called me, Spock. Although I don't have turned to leave when Kirk stopped him. Sulu's skills I'm pretty handy at swordfighting." "Oh excuse me ... I have to make a call but I don't know the number. Is there "Not this kind of swordplay, a directory that I can use?" Captain," the Vulcan had replied. "It takes years of training to handle these "Yes, sir, but there is a code." weapons. I had Staurak to fight with me." "Naturally; and in VulcanuL McCoy couid not believe it. "Old suppose?" Staurak? You rnustbe kidding?" "Yes, sir. Can I be of assistance?" "Staurak may be 195 years old, Doctor," Spock's voice was mildly "1 would appreciate it," Kirk replied, amused, "but that does not stop him from and rose to his feet. still being one of the foremost fencing masters in ShiKahr. He and Shundak "Jim? What are you up tot' taught me everything I know." muttered a non-plussed Doctor.

"Bones," Kirk emerged from his "Just an idea, Bones. Don't you pensive mood. "Have you noticed that fret. " nOHone is willing to tell us much about this duel? It's as if it's a guilty secret.. McCov watched curious Iv as Kirk which I suppose it is; after all it is illegaL took his pl~ce at the console 'while tlw I wonder if we could obtain some V ulcan punched the code, sending lines n{ information from official sources, data streaming across the screen. libraries, archives etc.." "1 hope that it is not discourteous to "Fat lot of good that is, Jim. Unless call a person at this hour of the night," you can understand Vukanur?" was the Kirk remarked belatedly. Doctor's caustic reply. "No, sir, otherwise I would have "Damn!" Kirk swore in told you," the young man replied. "Here exasperation. "It's at times like this I miss you are, Captain, Professor Sradek." He my ship. I'd have had the information touched a key then silently departed. from the library computer in no time ... " McCoy, who was now standing at A soft tinkle interrupted him and Kirk's shoulder, asked curious lv, "And drew their attention to a telescreen unit who the heck is Professor Sradek:jim'" and its flashing light. "Spock's teacher. Hush now," Kirk "What do we do?" wondered said as the old Vulcan's face shimmered McCoy. into view, "Greetings Professor. This is James Kirk. If you remember we Tnet this "We just stay put, unless you can morning in the park" 65

"M Y memory is Wlimpaired, young by the young men of our Academies, at man," Sradek dryly replied. "I do annual competitions. They require, remember you, the friend of Spock. What particularly the UAlik'Tal, considerable is the object of your call?" skill, strength and judgement. I recall that Spock excelled at those games when "A point of history, Professor. We he was at the Science Academy. Why were discussing the legendary warriors of could he not tell you all this? 1 cannot your past and one question arose which understand." Sradek's face vvrinkled in Spock, unfortunately, could not answer. mild disapproval. So, I thought that perhaps you would be so good as to ... " Kirk assumed an air of deceptive ignorance. "I could not say, Professor. '''Kindly come to the pOint, Captain," Perhaps a memory block?" To cover up Sradek asked. this slander he added hastily, "One more question, please? I understand that the "Well, it concerns challenges and Warlords always went attended by ritual combats. To be precise the .. er .. friends and followers. I suppose that also D'Alik'Tal; the duel with sword and goes for individual combats?" dagger, I believe? Can you tell me if that was purely symbolic, to save face, so to "Certainly. They went into battle speak, or a real fight?" escorted by their close friends, their Thv'las and bv several attendants, a A pair of thin eyebrows rose up to custom which le'd to further bloodshed as the snow~white hair. "Captain, be sure the escorts also used to fight." that when the warriors fought it was to kill. The D'Alik'Tal, one of the barbarities "I see ... " Kirk paused, then asked, "I of our savage past, alas, was no pretence assume then that these close friends but a duel to the death that few men necessarily belonged. to the Warriors' survived. I am surprised at Spack, he clans, or there would have been should have known that. That period objections." was one of his strong points." "Not at all, Why should there be? Kirk shot a grim look at McCoy and On Vulcan, a friend is a friend, Captain; muttered, "Hear that, Bones? This is his origin, his creed or race make no worse than I thought." Then with forced difference. You ought to know that." geniality he asked Sradek, "I suppose I'm Sradek's eyes twinkled. right that these combats have not been practised since Surak's Refonnation, Kirk mustered a grin. "J do indeed, Professor?" sir, and I am very grateful for the information, more than you can "Quite right, Kirk. They were conceive." abolished along with other cruel customs. H.owever there are recurring rumours The Professor acknowledged with a concerning occult brotherhoods which nod. "It is gratifying to be still of service, still practice the Warriors' rites, including Captain. Will you do me a favour? combat to the death. Whether there is Please tell Spock to read up on our Pre­ any truth in them I could not say. Reformation history as a recommendation from his old teacher." "Normallv these traditional comba ts are only perio~ed as sporting contests, "I won't forget. Good night, 66

Professor." knew he had to fight and kill his best friend. And today, it's not a marriage, it's Sradek's face vanished from the a fight to the death that he's involved screen and Kirk walked slowly back to with. No wonder he's detennined to keep the fireplace where he stood staring you out of it," McCoy rasped. Then with grimly at the dancing flames. A hand a muttered profanity he sank into his gripped his shoulder. chair and refilled his glass.

"Are you all right, Jim?" McCoy After a moment Kirk heaved a sigh asked somewhat concerned. and sat down beside him, hunched over his clasped han.cis. "I know all that," he Klrk grunted, then said, "You heard said presently, "and that is the crux of the him, Bones. You heard what he said. problem. He won't let me go with him 'Friends, whoever they are, have the right for the same reasons that I cannot let him to attend the combats'. So what Spock go alone. So, what do we do now? If told us was a lie, damn him!" you've any ideas, Bones, then now's the time." "Jim, come all.. Perhaps he .. " the Doctor began. The Doctor took a sip of brandy and shrugged. "Since you and Spock are as "No, Bones," Kirk cut him short. "It stubborn as each other, seems to me was deliberate." He turned about to face you're facing deadlock, Jim. I can't see McCoy. "I remember that you once told any solution - short of going on our O\'Vl1 me that the simple fact that Spock is a and sort of dropping in on them once the Vulcan means he is incapable of telling a duel has started." lie.... So, what do you have to say now, Doctor." "You're a big help. We don't know the place, it's being kept secret." Faced with a pair of blazing hazel eyes McCoy cleared his throat and said "And, of course, Spock won't tell," diffidently, "Yes, well... I admit that Spock McCoy added. After a pause he added, hasn't been exactly frank about this "How much time until dawn? Do you Warriors' business. So what? He's done know?" that, like everything he does, for logical reasons, and you know damn well what "Three or four hours, suppose," those reasons are." Kirk muttered listlessly.

Hazel eyes and blue eyes met and Soft footfalls and a rustle of fabric held fiercely, then Kirk turned back to the heralded Staurak's appearance in the pool fire and leaned an ann all. the of light. "Your pardon, gentlemen. 1 had mantelpiece. "Do I?" he said presently, all thought you had retired to your rooms. anger spent. Shall I bring you some food and drink?"

"Dammit, Jim. Can't you see what's "We'd rather wait here, Staurak. We staring you in the face? Don't you didn't feel like going to bed when Spock.. understand that all he is doing is trying to Er ... yes, we could do with some coffee. spare you? He learned his lesson the last Very strong coffee, please." time he invited us, didn't he? It was his right to bring his friends to his marriage "And," added McCoy, "if you could ceremony, he said, and the next thing he make one of your 'speCials' to keep me awake, I would appreciate it." "So had I, Captain," Staurak replied with an effort, "but Spack expressly "I have just what you need, Doctor," forbade me to accompany him." the Vulcan said and was gone. "So as to spare you, as well," Kirk When he returned carrying a pot of said kindly. "Then you know how we feel steaming coffee and a decanter glittering about it." with amber liquid, the Doctor eyed the liquor warily. "I do, indeed, Captain," Staurak replied with a sigh. "That's supposed to help me stay awake all night?" he asked.

"It does for Vuicans," Staurak "".And what is so important as to replied imperturbably. make you forget your manners and pay calls in the middle of the night?" was the "Okay then, we'll try it," the Captain greeting T'Kahalin received when she decided. "Have you seen Spock? Is he was at last ushered into TPau's chamber. still meditating?" he asked. "I beg forgiveness, TPau, but it is a "No, Captain. He is asleep now." matter of the utmost urgency. It is information I received in confidence but "Good. 11,at's the best thing he of which you ought to be informed." could do," McCoy declared. "By the way, you said that the duel is to take place at TPau gave the girl a searching look dawn. Do you know where?" and noted her pale cheeks and anxious eyes. This did seem to be a serious "Yes, Doctor," Staurak briefly matter. "Indeed," she replied. "You said replied. in your message that it was a question of life and death ... is that not excessive?" "Ah ... and where is that?" Both men waited expectantly. "It is the truth." and it concerns Spock." TKahalin said simply. Now she Staurak looked at them, then had TPau's full attention, dropped his gaze. "I cannot say. 1 regret, Doctor, but Spack speCifically requested "Spack?" she said sharply, "What that neither of you be told." do you mean, child? Explain."

The two friends shared a glance and In a few words TKahalin told her the Captain quietly said, "That's all right, all she knew, but whatever hopes she had Staurak We Wlderstand. Maybe you can were dashed when after listening in tell us when Spack is due to leave?" shocked silence the old lady shook her head. "When the time comes his escort will take him to the appointed place." "I cannot interfere, TKahalin. These affairs of honour concern only the males "Oh ... then you aren't going with of the Clans." him? I would have thought at least... " Kirk stopped, moved by the distress he "But don't you have the authority as could see in the Vulcan's eyes. the Head of the Clan?" 68

"No, child. have no authority in "Where are we going? What do you this matter. Spack did the correct thing in mean to do?" asked the young woman as accepting the challenge and he must now she hurried after her. accept the consequences, Do not interrupt, let me finish. Only one man in "I shall not let it be said that TPau the Clan has the power, if he so chooses, could be outmanouevered by StOIU1'S to oppose the Warriors, and that is Sarek." chattel," retorted the indomitable Vulcan. "I may have no authority over male "But Sarek ... Sarek has been gone customs and rites but 1 hope that I still for a week," TKahalin exclaimed in have some influence over that Starfleet dismay. Then, struck by a sudden Commander who dares break the len,v thought, she whispered, "Of course .. while abiding by our traditions. We must Now I understand ... " make haste."

"What do you understand? Speak." After traversing the arcades they entered the hall. Trau halted and said "Don't you see, Trau? Stann shortly, "You came in your air-car, ! challenged Spack at a time when Sarek is presume. Good. We may just have the away. They must have known that no­ time. Come.. take me to Sarek's house. one but Sarek could prevent the combat Samorr, my cloak." so they planned the moment with care."

''They? Stonn'$ family?" Trau interjected. The door opened stealthily and a figure stole into the dark room and "Possibly, but according to TLian's listened to the even breathing of the assistant, the cause or pretext for the Kun sleeping man. As it quietly approached Kalaish Kae is TPring," TKahalin the bed the flickering flame of the fire-pot explained. showed the lined features in strong relief and revealed Staurak. He laid the clothes The old Vulcan lady stiffened in he had brought down on a chair and outrage. ··Impossible. Spack would not holding his breath gazed at Spock, who disgrace himself with Stann's boncimate. lay sound asleep with one arm thrown That is unthinkable." over his head. Spack's face looked peaceful, almost child-like, and conjured "Trau," TKahalin said deliberately, up the memory of the lonely boy whom "I have reason to believe that some Staurak and TMina had devotedly looked perfidy is at work. I submit that T'Pring after. The old couple had always is quite capable of thinking up the whole considered Spack as the son they had scheme for reasons of her own and of never had .... and now he had to prepare using her bondmate if it suits her him for a deadly combat and for whatever purpose." fate awaited out on the desert. At the thought the old man felt a pang of Trau regarded her with speculative anguish and his lips trembled interest. "You are a perceptive girl, uncontroUably. Overcoming his Japse, he TKahalin, and if r know TPring you may schooled his face into its usual placidity well be right. Come, we must do and laid a gentle hand on the bare something about it." She stood up, picked shoulder. up her cane and walked briskly to the door. Spack's eyes snapped open 69 instantly and he looked up at the face traditional coloured belts the three times above him. The long gaze they arow1d Spack's waist and tied the ritual exchanged made words unnecessary. knots in the proper way. Staurak stepped back as Spock threw back the coverlet, stood up and stretched Stepping back to check his himself like a lithe cat before padding to handiwork he answered Spack's querying the bathroom for a quick shower. gaze with a nod of approval. The same thought crossed both their minds; so As Spock stared at his reflection in many times before had Staurak dressed the mirror and took stock of himself he the youth and given him his last felt, with relief, that the stress he had recommendations before he entered the endured aU day long was gone. It had annual Competitions at the Academy. been a harrowing day, a constant effort to Now the circumstances were tragically maintain self-control and dignity. After different and soon, when dawn broke the shock of Stonn's shameful accusations over the desert, would come the moment and the challenge he had had to sustain of truth. Spack deliberately broke the first the emotional strain of facing spell by taking out of the wardrobe a full TKahalin without betraying himself and length cloak which he slung over his then to confront his Captain's emotional shoulders, while Staurak picked up the arguments. weapons encased in their long leather sheath. With his forceful ways, and his Human emotions on the rampage, Jim As they went to the door the faint had unknowingly harassed him almost to throb of an ~irHcar landing outside caught breaking point. Jim's friendship, which their attention. he prized above all else, had been almost too much to cope with. He had even been "It is time, Spock. They are here," forced to lie to his Captain but then he said Staurak opening the door. would have said or done anything to keep Kirk out of this conflict. Much as he "Wait. My friends? Have they longed to have Kirk at his side, Spock retired to their rooms?" Spock asked. would not again risk his life. He shuddered at the memory of his friend "No. The last time I looked into IVing choked to death by his hands. No! your mother's sitting room they were Never again. Closing his eyes in a sitting by the fire. They are waiting for desperate effort to banish the intrusive you." emotions Spack brought himself under tight control. Spock paused, bit his lip, then murmured, "Kaidth." He strode out of the Moments later when Spack came room, only to find a small woman, her out of the bathroom he had regained his wrinkled face drawn with distress, usual composure. Staurak had laid out waiting for him on the landing. Her the traditional outfit of the D'Alik'Tal faded eyes looked up at Spock as she duellist H midnight blue breeches, tan whispered, "Spockarn, my little one. knee-high boots and green fenCing jacket Must you go?" - and now he proceeded to dress his charge with the gravity of a equerry Spock took her hands in his own. fitting his master with a suit of armour. "You know it is my duty, T'Mina." He fitted the shoulder straps and the netH like jacket with care, twined the three "Your duty," she protested feeblv. 70

"What shall I say to your mother, to you that outworlders may not attend." Sarek, if their son comes to hann?" "Yes, so you did. But you got that "Do not talk nonsense, my wife," all wrong, N1r Spock." Kirk stl'olled down chided Staurak. "Spack will return the hall to stand squarely in front of his so victorious, an honour to the Family. You alien-looking First Officer and looked him may be sure of that." full in the face. "You see, I have it on the best authority that, as your friend, I am Spock raised an eyebrow. "Wishful entitled to attend you in ritual combat. thinking, Staurak?" he asked. That is the true Warrior's tradition, Spock. Did you not know?" "No, Spock. Logical certainty," the Vulcan answered with stout confidence. Spock had turned pale. "Who told you that?" "So be it. Take care, Spack," TMina said softly. She held her hand out, palm "Your own historv teacher. Do vou upward and he gently touched it with his question Professor S~adek's autho;'ity, own. Then with a last look she let him go Spock'" and watched the MO men walk downstairs. Spack's heart missed a beat and the Vulcans behind him stirred uneasily. As they stole past the fountain "Captain," he said sharply, "I trust that which babbled quietly in its porphyry you did not telL" basin, the front door opened and hvo cloaked figures entered. The taller, one "I did not," Kirk cut in. "I gave you pushing back his hood, revealed the my word, didn't I? I only asked Sradek solemn face of Shundak. for some additional information that you were unable to give me. He was quite "Greetings, Spock. Are you ready'" helpful and prolix on the subject of Pre­ he asked in a hushed voice. Reformation Vulcan. Incidentally, he was rather disappointed in his best pupil," he "I am ready," Spack replied softly. added pOintedly.

Staurak handed the sheathed "I see," the Vulcan replied tightly. "I weapons to Shundak's acolyte and they should have taken your resourcefulness moved to the door when a voice called into accotmt." across the halL "But you did not," Kirk countered, "Don't you dare leave without me, "which leaves us with this issue. You no MrSpock." longer have Warrior rites as an excuse to stop me. It won't work." His voice Spock froze, then turned on his became persuasive, his eyes compelling. heeL There was his Captain in his· "Spock, let me come with you, please." familiar 'hands on hips' stance and with McCoy at his shoulder. Inevitably the "Do not ask this of me, Jim - encounter he had wished to avoid had cannot." Spock's eyes burned in a face come to pass. Ignoring the Doctor's rigid with icy control. obvious amazement at his warrior-like appearance, Spock replied, "This is McCoy quickly intervened in a low pointless, Captain. I have already told voice, "Jim, you're pushing!" 71

"Shut up, Bones. Don't you try and "Quite," McCoy agreed. "I know interfere," Kirk snapped. "Spock. .. you did it for the best, Spock. Don't Remember what we have been through worry, I'll look after him." together. Haven't we always wriggled out of the most desperate situations "Thank you for your understanding, together? Don't you know that?" McCoy. I must go now."

"I know," Spack said in a hoarse The Doctor nodded wordlessly, voice, "but you don't know what you ask overcome by a strange emotion. He of me, Jim." cleared his throat and said, "Oh, Spack?"

"Then tell me." "Doctor?" Spock paused in the doorway. They were interrupted by Slnmdak's grave voice. "Spock, time is "Spack.. at least try not to get running out. We must leave now," killed."

"Spock, please let me go with you," Spack cocked an eyebrow and Kirk pleaded. His gaze locked with replied, "I shall do my best, Doctor." He Spock's in a last attempt to overcome the shut the door quietly behind him. Vulcan's obstinacy. At last Spack seemed to reach a decision and nodded With a sigh, McCoy turned back to reluctantly. Jim Kirk. As he checked Kirk's pulse he heard the front door close then the drone "Very well, Captain. As you wish ... of the skimmer taking off. but the nights are cold on the desert; you should put on a cloak," he said quietly. Moments later Kirk came round under the watchful eyes of McCoy and "Right. I won't be a minute... " Kirk Staurak who, mindful of Spack's last flashed him a smile, turned round ... and recommendation to look after the collapsed as a neck pinch was applied Humans, had brought the Doctor his wi th nawless precision. SpaCk caught medi-kit. McCoy, hearing the Captain him as he fell, swept him up in his arms mumble disjointed words, grasped his and said to the watching Vulcans, "One shoulder and shook him gently. moment. This will not take long." Followed by McCoy he carried his "Easy, Jim, easy. You'll be all right," Captain back to the sitting room. he said as he gave him a stimulant.

As they made Kirk comfortable on When Kirk opened his eyes he the settee the Doctor dryly remarked, "A found a pair of vivid blue eyes smiling rather drastic measure, SpaCk. I suppose down at him. "Bones?" Kirk looked it was the logical thing to do?" dazedly around. "What am I doing here? Where's Spack?" Spock's fingers brushed Kirk's forehend, then he straightened up and "You passed out, Jim." McCoy looked at McCoy with sombre eyes. "It in fanned him. "Don't you remember?" was the only thing to do, Doctor. I cannot let him risk his life again in rituals which "I only remember falling into an do not concern him." endless black hole," Kirk complained as he tried to sit up. "Ouch, my neck." He 73

Several figures were assembled by sword and dagger, one in each hand. the fire and turned as the newcomers Their blades glittered in the firelight as he approached. One of them broke from the held them crossed against his chest. group and exchanged salutes with Shundak, who had moved on ahead. Stonn was likewise prepared, then the wo were led to the battle-site and Spock, closely wrapped in his warm they took their positions face to face. The cloak, waited silently and felt strangely others formed a circle around them and distant, as if the ceremony hardly began chanting the traditional words of concerned him at all. He looked on as the the ritual. When they fell silent Spack rites were duly performed and idly and Stonn saluted, lowered their weapons wondered why Storm had deemed it and stood poised for the attack, watching necessary to come escorted by seven each other measuringly. attendants, when the D'Alik'Tal rules stipulated two or three at the most. A hush fell over the clearing. The atlTIosphere had a sense of watchfulness, The lessons that Spock had received as if time itself was holding its breath. from his grandfather and Professor The Vulcans looked at the sky, at the Sradek regarding Vulcan history and scarlet dawn rising over the desert. [olklore had been so comprehensive that Suddenly the howl of a Le-matya, he had become something of an expert. hunting for prey, ripped the magical No wonder if his old teacher had shown stillness and stirred the expectant men. displeasure upon hearing that his prize pupil had all but forgotten his ruinon. "The Le-matya, Spack," Shundak Still, Jim had been right; better ta let whispered with controlled excitement. Sradek believe in Spock's deficiency than "TIle symbol of our Clan, the sign tha.t to let him know what was happening. you will win."

Jim ... For a brief moment, Spock let As if on cue a hoarse command was his thoughts drift back to his Captain. shouted, a drum began to beat and like With a sense of guilt he thought Will he unleashed predators the duellists sprang 11l1derstand? Will he forgive? He clenched his into action and met in a clash of steeL fists and gave himself a mental shake. Enoughf This was not the time for debilitating emotions. He must concentrate on the immediate issue; to try and disable Stonn rapidly so as to put a~ A moody silence hovered over honourable end to this deplorable affair. Amanda's sitting room. Important information laced with a few home truths Already a faint rosy hue heralded had been exchanged. T'Pring's the dawn and diminished the darkness on responsibility had been brought to light the horizon. The time was near. The but finally Humans and Vulcans had to attendants and seconds studied the skv face the naked fact that, in McCoy's and began preparing the combatants fdr words, 'Nothing short of a miracle could the fight. Spock shaak off his cape and change the course of events, even Shundak took the weapons and solemnly supposing that such things existed.' presented them, on his outstretched T'Kahalin, for one, was not far from hands, to Spock. The two men stood still, secretly hoping for such an irrational unspoken thoughts flowing between thing ta happen. them, then Spock grasped the ceremonial 72 felt his sore muscles with a cautious hand Spock's hand gently touch the face of his and winced. unconscious friend. "I see," he mused, "and .. do you?" "Allow me, Captain," said Staurak's voice and strong, warm fingers began to "Do I what?" knead his aching neck and shoulder. Kirk felt a tickling wannth penetrate his "Do you forgive, Spack?" knotted muscles and soon the cramp was gone. The Captain produced a wan smile. "Of course, Bones. What else?" "Ah, that's better, thank you," Kirk breathed in relief and swung his feet to Old Staurak appeared with a fTesh the floor. Staurak handed him a glass of pot of coffee and was in the act of his tonic 'special' then vanished pouring when he paused, raised his head, discreetly, leaving McCoy to explain the listened, then glided out of the door, situation. leaving the Humans staring ZIt each other. After a few minutes hushed voices were Kirk sipped his drink, deep in heard in the hall, the door opened and to thought, then looked at the Doctor. their amazement TPau, her composure "Spack?" he asked. somewhat ruffled, sailed into the room; following in her wake was the most "Yes. He's gone, Jim." McCoy charming Vulcan of their acquaintance. paused "And I guess you know why you've got a stiff neck... the neatest As the two men scrambled to their neckpmch I've yet seen performed." feet TPau said peremptorily, "Kirk, Staurak tells me that Spock has already Kirk nodded sombrely. "So, he did left. Alas, we come too late; but why that to me," he muttered, "and I, like a could you not have stopped him?" damn fool, fell headlong for it."

"Come on, Jim. There's no use getting miffed. You know why he did it." Chapter 13

"Mnunm," Kirk nodded A myriad of stars displayed their thoughtfully. "1 know ... and 1 understand spangled splendour in the pre-dawn now darkness of the sky. The night wind had dwindled to a light breeze which still sent "What?" prompted McCoy. sand swirling around the three figures that climbed the steep path, scattered "} understand why r keep hearing with rocks and boulders, up to the his voice in my mind." appointed place.

"Oh?" The Doctor looked dubious. They made their way through a "And what does he say?" defile and reached the clearing on top of the knoll. This was the Ha'aka, the Kirk gazed into the blue eyes and traditional gathering place of the said softly, "He says, 'Forgive me, Jim'." Lla'Hanak Clan. A big fire blazed in the middle and sent shadows dancing on the Silence fell over the MO men and huge standing stones raised in a circle. McCoy nodded as he remembered seeing 74

McCoy broke the quiet by asking I find it hard to understand why Vulcans, for the umpteenth time, "How much reputedly the most civilised people of the longer until dawn?" Federation, choose to turn a blind eye on these illegal, savage practices for the sake TPau remained aloofly silent but of some obsolete traditions." T'Kahalin, sitting quietly on the couch with her hands clasped in her lap, raised TPau's dark eyes swept from Kirk her eyes. "Soon, Doctor ... very soon," to McCoy, noting on the way TKahaliJ1s Her low voice was carefully controlled expression of startled interest, then back but McCoy was not fooled and his heart to Kirk. sank at her obvious distress. "Our traditions, Captain," she said "Damn," he muttered, feeling coldly, "are the essence of Vulcan. In utterly helpless. observing these ancient rites we identify with our past, we acknowledge what our The Captain, being used to taking ancestors were and what we have action, was champing at the bit and become." finally could not stand his helplessness any more. He hit the arm of his chair "At the cost of Vulcan lives?" Kirk with a clenched fist and burst out, "No. answered back. This is unacceptable. I can't believe that Spock is fighting for his life while we sit "If necessary," she replied austerely, here doing nothing. There surely must be "at the cost of lives. But you, Captai.n, some alternative, some way ... " who are you to pass judgement on us? You hold in your hand the lives of your TPau eyed Kirk with curiosity. officers and crew. You do not hesitate at "You are very persistent, Kirk, and yet the call of duty, to order them to .. you could not persuade Spock.. " "What is the meaning of this?" a "What could I do, Madam," he deep voice behind them suddenly countered sharply, "when Spock is bound demanded. by your traditions? When he must follow the dictates of your primitive laws? What At first they were frozen in surprise could I have done?" then they turned as one and Kirk recovering his voice, blurted out, "Good Quite W'U'uffIed by his outburst, she God - Sarekl " nodded approvingly. "Indeed. I am pleased to note that Spock's behaviour I t was indeed Ambassador Sarek, a has been in every way that of a Vulcan." study in awesome Vulcan dignity. Behind him came Amanda, still wrapped "A fat lot of good that's going to do in her elegant, high-collared travelling him at the moment," the Doctor cloak and wearing an expression of polite commented wryly. surprise on her face.

It earned him a "Ah, there is our "Who said that miracles don't exist!" sharp-tongued Healer," from the old lady exclaimed a beaming Doctor. "Thank who, of all things, looked amused. Heavens, Ambassador, that you have arrived." Kirk, doggedly following his idea, continued, "With all due respect, Madam/ "Indeed," T'Pau calmly agreed. 75

I

,I ')

! 76

"Your arrival is most timely, Sarek. We to consider then said gravely, "As you are did not expect you so promptly." aware, TPau, before I can act I must have sufficient reason to justify my "We were able to conclude the intervention. One does not oppose age~ conference sooner than anticipated," old ritual with impunity." Sarek replied, dropping his heavy cape on a chair. Then looking perplexed he said, "My God! Isn't Spock's life "May I know what all this is about? You sufficient reason?" McCoy expostula ted. and TKahalin are welcome in my house, TPau, but this is hardly the proper time "To me, Doctor, it is more than for social calls. As for you, gentlemen, all sufficient," Sarek replied simply, "but it is I can say is that you surprise me." unthinkable that I could take such unprecedented steps merely for personal "Sarek," Kirk spoke deliberately, considerations." "this is not a party but rather a council of war and it concerns Spack." "You forget nne thing, Ambassador," Kirk put in. "These "Spock?" Amanda broke in combats, I am told, are illegal, therefore anxiously. "What about Spock? Where is whoever practices them is in breach of he?" the law. Isn't it your duty as a Vulcan, as a member of the High Council, to see tha t "i am afraid that at the moment he the law is enforced?" is fighting a duel somewhere out in the desert. If you want to see him back safe "A good point, Captajn," Sarek and sound you had better hurry," the nodded appreciatively. "That is indeed Captain grimly retorted. the sole, valid argument that I can act on. That and my position as the Male Head of Amanda went white and sank onto our Clan." He stood up, picked up his the couch. "Oh, my God," she whispered. cloak. "Let us go. Where is the meeting?" "A duel? Spock? I can't believe it." She looked up at her husband, who stood as if A tense pause followed, then turned to stone. "Sarek, please. Do TKahalin told him. "No-one knows. something." They kept the place a secret."

The Vulcan took a deep breath then "Yes, someone does but he won't sat down heavily. "TPau, explain." tell," McCoy interjected.

"Time is of the essence, Sarek," she "Who, Doctor? Specify." There was told him. "Suffice it to say for the present no mistaking the authority in the that yesterday Stann challenged Spock to Ambassador's voice. Kun Kalaish Kae which your son rightly accepted. However we have reason to "Staurak, sir. He knows the place believe that Stonn acted on TPring's but Spock forbade him to tell us lest we instigation and we also suspect some should go and barge in," the Doctor perfidious implication in this affair. As it explained succinctly.. no need to giv(~ is not my place to interfere in Warrior Spock's true reason. matters, there is only you, Sarek." Obviously, Sarek was not duped. "I Her words hung in the air and they see," he said dryly. "A wise precaution ... ail waited for his response. Sarek paused which does noL however. concem me." 77

He turned round and called, "Staurak." work. The Lla'I-{anak are a sect of The old Vulcan emerged from the fanatics who want Vulcan to re-discover shadows where he had been discreetly its Wmrior virtues. They are not averse waiting. His tTuthful eyes were fixed on to using extreme methods in order to Sarek's face. achieve their purpose. Captain, you witnessed the challenge. Now can you "Staurak," the latter said gently, remember the men who were with Stonn "will you give me your thoughts?" and describe them to me? This is very important." "Willingly," Staurak replied. He grasped Sarek's hand and both closed "[ shall try," Kirk replied simply as their eyes. 5mek stood motionless, he cast his mind back to the previous day absorbing the vital information, while in the Gymnasium. There was nothing Kirk and McCoy \vatched in fascination. wrong with his memory, accustomed as The V ulcans opened their eyes as the link he was to identifying at a glance any of iaded and Sarek, with a grim look on his the 400 men and women of his crew. 50 iaee, reported, "The combat takes place on he described quite accurately the six men the Ha'Aka Hill." whom he had seen escorting Stonn. He added, "I can also give you their names. "Why the Ha'Aka?" Amanda asked. As I recall there \vas Sopek, Soniak. .. "Is that the meeting place of Stonn's er .. Trall, and Sal', no .. Xar or Xour." dan?" "X'our? Did you say X'our, Kirk?" "It is not," T'Pau stated. "Sarek this Sarek cut in sharply. is strange. What has the Lla'Hanak Clan to do with Stonn? Unless ... ?" "Yes, that it. X'our.. 1 am positive. Does that help?" "Indeed, this is most disquieting," Smek replied. "Staurak? Did Spock give Sarek traded a glance with TPau you the reason ior the choice of Ha'Aka?" who slowly rose to her feet. "It certainly does, Captain," he said darkly. "This is "No. He said only that it was worse than I thought. Staurak, tell recommended bv Ston~'s attendants 5irvann that I need the skimmer in because of its secl~sion." readiness. We shall leave immediately. Doctor, Captain. if you wish to join us, "Stonn's attendants? Who are please prepare yourselves." they?" "Now you're . talking/ McCoy Staurak shook his head. "1 do not declared, picking up his medi-kit. ''I'll go know. However, Captain Kirk probably and get our jackets, Jim." He hurried out does as he was at the Kun Kalaish Kee." while Kirk rounded on Sarek.

As all the attention focused on Kirk, "Sorry, sir," he said firmly, "but I he felt that he at had at last a chance to want an explanation. Why are these put a word in. "One moment," he said. Ua'Hanak people a menace to Spock? "What is all this about the Ua'Hanak What do they want?" Clan? What does that mean 7" Sarek regarded him sombrely. "It means, Kirk. that you were right. "Revenge, probably. Among the men you There does seem to be some treachery at mentioned, Kirk, there is one who thinks 78 that he has reason to nurse resenhnent standing stones of the clearing and toward Spock, and that one is X'our." flashing on the blades of the duellists locked in a deadly fight. Gone were the "Why? What about him?" polished urbanity and rationality of Vulcan. This was the primitive combat of "X'our was the bond-brother of Warlords erupting from Vulcan's savage Sharakan." past. The drumbeat gradually increased its tempo, irresistibly urging them into a A gasp escaped Amanda. killing frenzy. Already several cuts and "Sharakan? But that was the man who .. gashes dripping green on their arms and she stammered in dismay. chests told of the implacable significance of the duel. "Yes," Sarek nodded, "that was the man who betrayed his people to the At first, the followers had crossed Romulan Empire, who abducted Spock swords with their opposite numbers in with the help of Romulan agents and who the usual courtesy contests but soon the had the audacity to force a mindprobe on earnestness of the combat demanded all my son." Sarek's voice rang with hardly their attention. The onlookers, mindful of controlled anger and Kirk felt a shiver run staying well out of the way, watched with down his spine. keen interest as StOlll attacked relentlessly with Spack giving as good as "My God' Do you think that he got. The tvvo adversaries bounced Sharakan will... ?" back and forth in the lethal dance, sometimes leaping over the glowing "He will not, Kirk," T'Pau answered embers of the fire or colliding with bone­ him. "Sharakan can no longer harm jarring clashes. anyone. He chose to do away with himself rather than face his judges. Shundak, well aware of Spock's However X'our is a member of the mastery of the martial arts, had Lia'Hanak brotherhood and if he holds anticipated a flawless performance but he Spack responsible for the demise of his was pleasantly surprised at his bondbrother, theI1..." remarkable resilience and pugnacity, especially as opposed to the brute force of The implication of her words hung Stann. To judge from the rapt attention ominouslv in the air as a voice broke in, with which Spack's every move was "Sir, the ~air-car is now ready." In the observed this was a surprise shared by doorway stood a handsome yOW1g man all. They had apparently not thought that who exchanged a long significant look the half-breed had it in him. with TKahalin. Kirk had just begun to note their striking resemblance when A similar thought crossed the mind McCoy's voice called from behind of the cloaked figure who stood and Sirvann. watched, unnoticed, in the shadow of a rock. She should be satisfied. This duel "I say. It's almost sunrise. What are was her doing, the climax of a sequence we waiting for? Corne on." of clever moves, which had pitted one against the other, the lwo men she had equally and alternately admired, desired and despised. She knew now, with The ruby sun edged over the certainty, that revenge waS within her horizon, reddening the sand and the reach. Revenge for her frustrations, her 79 self-deception? She did not know and she in a downward thrust which Storm did not care. Revenge was illogical, parried a split second too late. Steel nevertheless it existed .. it was what she clashed against steel, and the keen edge of craved at this moment. Spock's blade slashed into Stonn's thigh, laying it open \vith a gush of blood. Yes, she ought to be pleased.... and yet, the duel was not proceeding quite as Cut to the bone, Stann staggered. she anticipated. Both men were hurt but Dragging his leg he attempted another they were still on their feet and seemingly lunge but Spock fended off the blade with in possession of their full potential. an irresistible swipe which sent it Hying Strange that Spock could hold out so long and brought his opponent to his knees. against Stonn's superior strength. Quite With a grunt of pain Stonn struggled to unexpected. Had she underestimated the pull himself up, but his knees buckled half-Human? For a heartbeat T'Pring and he fell heavily onto the sand. wavered, touched by an uneasy feeling of doubt, a. state of mind contrasting with Abruptly, the frenetic drumbeat her usual self-assurance. Illogical! Why ce

reeled back to reality, to the sour smell of Spock," he said gravely. "The combat was blood and ashes and to the defeated stare well fought and in accordance with of the man lying at his feet waiting for the D'Alik'Tal rules. Spock has chosen to ritual death blow. show mercy and that is good. Let it be, let 5tonn live. His honour is intact." He shuddered with revulsion and his voice rasped. "No, no. I will not:' A "No. It is not," cut in a clear voice murmur ran round the circle and the one and a hooded figure emerged from the called X'our said stonily, "Why, Spock? It shadows to stand before them in the full is your right... and your duty. You have light of day. won. You must finish what you began." "T'Pring?" Shundak grunted "No.. ! refuse. I \vill not give the disapprovingly. "Your place is not here." finishing stroke," Spock repealed hoarsely. In finality he drove his sword "1 beg to differ, Shundak;' she into the ground where it stood, swaying replied disdainfully. "My place is here gently. with my consort." She looked £It Spock who was watching her in stunned silence. "This is a combat to the death, as In a carefully neutral voice she said, "So .. you ought to know," X'our pointed out. you win again, Spock. And you grandly "A true Vulcan would not stay his hand." spare StOrul'S life. Very generous - we should be grateful, should we not?" The Slung by the obvious contempt in sarcasm in her voice gave \vay to cold the voice, Spock countered. "Incorrect. A wrath. "But I arn not. Stonn failed, my true Vulcan does not kilL A h'ue Vulcan honour remains tarnished. However, respects life and abhors violence, as you where Stonn has failed, others v"ill ought to know, X'our." He looked down succeed," she added cryptically. Ca.sting a at Stonn and met eyes filled with anguish casual glance at her by now unconscious mingled with hope, and he whispered, ,nate, she curtly ordered, "Take him "Why? Why did we do this? .. .1 meant away." you no harm .. ' Raising his eyes he transfixed the rest with a withering glare. As his body was carried away l)n a. stretcher, she turned to follow. "Is not this enough? Are you not satisfied? You made us fight but you will Spock, shocked by such blatant not make me kill a stricken man. He is callousness, asked in a low voice, "Why, losing blood fast; he needs medical T'Pring? Why did you set Stonn against attention. What are you. waiting for? me?" Take him to the Healer." Her dark eves searched his ti1Ct~ ,1nd Shaken by Spock's unexpected the look she gave him made him wince reaction and by the unmistakable aura of inwardly. "I told you that I no longer authority radiating from his weary but wanted Stonn," she declared coolly. "I still defiant figure the Lla'Hanak men wanted you ... but you did not want r:ne!" looked enquiringly at X'our. On his nod of assent they began, at last, to attend to Spack, his face drained of all colour, the fallen man. stared at her in disbelief. "Why do you hate me so, T'Pring?" he asked finally. Shundak, who had listened in silence, now broke in. "I concur with "I am Vulcan, I have no hate," she 81

, 1

:/ ;/ ---,,-~:::: ----;-:-= it, I t , I 1

Ii"'c Ii; 'I' r ,I

I\S.C. ,,-- . retorted. "Hate is a Human fault." "I protest. This is highly irregular, an act of treachery. X'our, you have no "This is hate you have, T'Pring. right." Human hate is merciful besides yours. I know, I have seen it." The other looked amused. "Here, I have every right. This is not your Her eyes flashed with spiteful Gymnasium, Shundak. This is the Ha'aka wrath. "How dare you pass judgement where I do as I please. No-one can hinder on me, Spack How dare you be so me arrogant." Then controlling herself she declared contemptuously, "Kaiidith. We "I can ... and I will." Bristling with have nothing more to say to each other." righteous indignation Shundak grasped Casting a meaningful glance at X'our she the hilt of his sword and drew it said coldly, "He is all yours." With purposefully. "Have you taken leave of ramrod-stiff posture she left, your senses?" he demanded. "Have you disappearing from view behind the no decency? As long as L." He gasped standing stones. and collapsed, hit by a brutal neck-grip. The same fate befell his assistant, who Shundak watched her go, his had rushed to his rescue. disapproval obvious. He looked at Spock who stood numb from shock and loss of "Good," X'our said with satisfaction, blood. "Come, Spock," he said quietly, "now the coast is clear. Leave them there. taking him by the arm. "Let us go. Your I have no quarrel with them, but ... " He wounds must be attended to. Come." He spun on his heel. His eyes burned with beckoned to his assistant but found X'our cold hatred. "But I have with the half­ standing in his way. breed. Spock, face to face at last. I have long awaited this moment. Take up your "One moment, Shundak. The sword and defend yourself." combat is not finished. You heard T'Pring. Storm failed so we will now take Gritting his teeth to hold back the his place and continue." excruciating pain throbbing in his ann and shoulder, Spock looked dovvn at his Shundak's face darkened with supporters as they sprawled unconscious controlled anger. "What StOrul'S consort on the ground. An odd sense of finality said is irrelevant," he snapped. "The swept over him as T'Pring's words D' Alik'Tal was arranged and agreed upon became clear. She had indeed spun her yesterday. Spack has defeated Stann in web flawlessly. He was alone, aching fair fight. The matter is now over. Come, and utterly sick and tired of the whole Spock." affair. He had abided by the ancient laws, he had done what they expected of him, X'our made a sign and his acolytes and yet, it was not enough. These closed in. "You are not going anywhere." fanatics demanded still more... more The Vulcan's meaning was ominously violence, more bloodshed. clear. "Spack, I claim my right to fight you here and now. KW1'Kalaish'Kae." To He raised his eyes and straightening stress his challenge he viciously struck up with an effort calmly said, "I decline Spock's wounded shoulder. Spock went the challenge, X'our. What you claim is livid, sick with pain, while an outraged illogical; I have no quarrel with you, I Master-at Arms interposed forcefully. will not fight." 83

"You wilL Spock. If you have one end, were the inevitable consequences drop of Vulcan blood in you, you will, which he brought upon himself." The time has now come. I shall make you pay for the death of my T'hy'la who "How dare you! How dare you suffered disgrace and agony because of speak of Sharakan in such terms," X'our you. You miserable half-breed, you will hissed in rage. "You will pay for your pay for the death of Sharakan." arrogance. Spock. KaK'Duk'"

Spock's breath caught in his throat The old war cry was taken up by his (lnd he stood transfixed, chilled to the followers and the Vulcans advanced on marrovv. This shock, right after the blow Spack, swords drawn and murder in their delivered by Trring, was enough to eyes. shake any Vulcan, let alone one on the verge of exhaustion. Sharakan! At the Spack knew his chances of survival mere mention of the name, all the mental were slim. He felt drained of feeling, of ()gony that Spock had suffered, that he thought, and yet one weary, fatalistic had, through severe discipline, buried thought emerged in his mind for a split deep in the unconscious levels of his second: why struggle any more? If his mind, all this returned with a vengeance. destiny was to die on the Ha'aka Hill, in The horror and humiliation he had some 'kind of propritatory sacrifice, why undergone as Sharakan had raped his not yield to the inevitable and let these mind to force from it the classified data fanatics accomplish their distasteful surged up and chilled his soul. For a brief ritual? awful moment Spack saw himself back in the cave with Sharakan's face hovering Then as the scream of the Le'matya over him, Sharakan's fingers gripping his echoed again on the hill, Spock's dual head and Sharakan forcing entry into his nature reacted and he rebelled at the mind to seek out the vital information. thought. If two years ago he had resisted Sharakan and his Romulan accomplices, Breathing heavily, Spock closed his it was not done to give in now. He had to eyes and fought desperately to regain fight, he owed it to himself, to his proud control of himself. Finally, years of heritage, and above alt to his Captain. sternly practised discipline carne into play Jim would never give up. Jim ... and when he reopened his eyes he was Unconsciously, his weary soul sent a last able to face the Lla'f-{anak brethren with message to his Captain. tolerable composure. Jim ... farewell, THy'la. At least YOIl are X'our had been watching him with safe. bitter satisfaction. "I see Sharakan left his mark on your mind, Spack. At least Now was not the time for vain when you die, you will know the reason regrets. X'ow' and his acolytes were why. You will be destroyed as you closing in on him. If he was to die, at destroyed him." least let it be with dignity. Spock backed a few steps, and his hip knocked against "It is contrary to Vulcan ethics to the hilt of his sword where it still stood in a venge a death by another death, X'our," the sand. In one fluid movemen t he Spock replied. "What befell Sharakan pulled it out, gripped it in both hands and was of his own doing. He chose a squared up to his challengers. His body dangerous path, a path of duplicity and was as taut as a strung bow, all high treason. His downfall, his tragic indecision, pain and weariness were shed 84 like discarded rags. From head to foot he With Sirvann's help, the Doctor stood revealed as the Vulcan Warlord managed to catch up with Kirk and the once again. others, As they rounded a cliff a fearsome howl made them jump and they came face to face with a huge, grey lion­ like beast. At their appearance the Puffing and blOwing, Doctor animal bared its fangs in anger and McCoy was trudging up the uneven path growled, then bounded away through the to that god-forsaken place, the Ha'aka. tumble of rocks, Running uphill in the thin air and crushing heat was no picnic and McCoy "What the hell was that?" McCoy knew that despite a double dose of tri-ox whispered in awe. he could not keep up this pace much longer. Jim was jogging ahead with "A Le-matya, Doctor," Sarek dogged determination, keeping pace with informed him without slackening his the Vulcans. How could he do it? pace. Heavens only knew .... but he was certain that the faint mindlink, back in the air­ Within moments, Kirk and McCoy car, which had proved Spack was still arrived at the top and staggered to a halt. alive had galvanised both Kirk and the Their hearts stopped beating for Vulcans. The Doctor would never have impossible seconds at the sight which met thought Sarek and old Staurak capable of their eyes: there were several bodies moving so fast. lying about and a band of four fanatics with weapons were bearing down, like a The next moment, McCoy tripped pack of wolves, on the lone figure of and caught himself against a boulder. Spock who was feneling them off with a The shock made him bend over and groan strength born of desperation. He was as he thought, Gai! [' II never make it. He slowly giving ground until his back met felt a pair of hands grip his arms and lift with the face of a standing stone. He was him up, A pair of grey eyes looked so hard-pressed that he couldn't even enquiringly down at him. McCoy, his wipe his eyes clear of the blood running breath coming in shudders, mustered a from a deep cut in his scalp. Driven back weak smile and gasped, '1'hank you .. , 'm against the stone all he could do was grit all right, Go ... go! Don't wait for me." his teeth and tighten his grip on the sword. He knew the end was near, He was pulled to his feet, caught up by a strong arm and dragged on shaky Suddenlv ... commotion. As if in a legs up the rocky hillside. Thank goodness dream, Spock perceived people running for sheer Vulcan strength ... and for that young into the clearing, heard familiar voices aide of Sarek's, McCoy thought. Damn shout his name ... and there was his father, good-looking boy, just like his sisier ... and a a picture of outraged Vulcanity, who damn good pilot, too, Never thought a skimmer thundered, "Kroykah!" with such could make warp speed or almost. McCoy's virulence that X'our and his followers stomach churned retrospectively at the froze before swinging round to face the thought of the breakneck pace at which intruders. Sarek? And Jim? Here? Sirvarm had driven the craft all the way Impossible! from ShiKahr, More like a rnddy rocket than an air-car. SHU 'Time is o{ the essence', as Stunned with disbelief, Spack could Sarek said. only watch through a green haze the implacable efficiency with which his 85 rescuers dealt with his adversaries. "Unnecessary. r can walk," cut in 5taurak and Sirvann, anned with swords Spack, weak but determined and slightly secured from the fallen warriors, cornered put-out by the offhand manner in which X'our and TraIl and forced them to they were making decisions without surrender, while his father and his consulting him. Captain disposed of the rest with, respectively, a punishing nerve-pinch and "No, you won't," the Doctor a deftly dealt Karate chop. In no time, countered gruffly. He was gently wiping the newcomers had gained control of the the blood from the Vulcan's face and battlefield. covered his concern with a typically irascible retort. "Who's the Doctor here? Overcome by shock and the pain of If I say that you're not fit to walk, I know his shoulder, Spock closed his eyes and what I'm talking about. Be logical, Spack. sagged against the stone. His fantastic You can hardly stand, much less walk Vulcan endurance had finally reached its down that hill. .. It's madness." limits. Kirk caught him as he swayed, bloodied and exhausted but still on his "Doctor, I admit I am somewhat feet. fatigued but I am quite capable of walking.. with some help," Spack "Spock, it's finished.. it's all over affirmed feebly, adding as if on second 1100V," Jim's voice said in his ear. "Easy thoughts. "Will someone look after now ... let go, Spock." Spock felt a tug at Shundak? He and his second were set on his sword and instinctively tightened his for standing up for me." grip. "Don't worry, Kirk told him. "What do vou think you're doing, "They're fine, Staurak saw to that. At the Spock?" rasped.' another familiar voice. moment Shundak is with your father, "Do you mean to make mince~meat of dealing with that band of ruffians. I have your Captain?" the strong impression that X'our and co. are not overjoyed about it." Painfully, Spock eased his clenched hands and let go. "Sorry, Doctor," he "Yeah. Looks like Sarek is giving mumbled, "but ... my hands ... " them a piece of his mind," McCoy remarked with interest after a glance at "I know, Spock. 1 know," McCoy the Ambassador's mask of frigid wrath. replied kindly. "Your hands are a mess. "You know, Spack, if your father was You're a mess," he amended while Human I'd say he was .in a towering rage. running his medi-scanner over the If he were Human, of course." Taking a Vulcan. "What you need is immediate hypo out of his medi-kit, he made his care. Jim, we must take him back to decision. "Okay, Spack, we'll ShiKahr at once. He's lost too much blood compromise. I'll give you a shot to keep already." you on your feet for a while, but at the first sign of weakness, you'll have to let "Doctor," Staurak intervened, "with us carry you. And no argument, mind your permission, Sirvann and I will carry you. him to the skimmer." "Very well, Doctor," Spack "Splendid," Kirk said. "If you two answered meekly, knowing he had made :-;ive us a hand .. ' his point. His two friends exchanged a look and McCoy shrugged slightly. Both 86

were well aWare of Spock's Vulcan pride you need first is a good long sleep, right which demanded that he depart from the round the clock and then some real 'Rest Ha'aka with dignity; battered, perhaps, and Relaxation'. The same goes for him," but resolutely still on his feet. he added making another pass over Spock with his sca1Uler. "Once he's On his "Spock," a deep voice said beside feet again, I'll see to it that he takes things them. It was Sarek, whose usually easy." impassive expression wavered at the sight of his son. A look of COncern "Doctor." Sarek came over and sat glimmered in his dark eyes as they took beside them. "Doctor, and you too, Kirk, I stock of Spock's appearance, the bleeding have a message from Amanda. She ... er.. wounds and extreme lassitude. she sends you her love. I am afraid this infonnal expression of gratitude must be Supporting himself on Kirk's attributed to an excessively emotional shoulder, Spock painfully straightened reaction. However, an understandable up. "Father," he murmured in greeting. one in the present circumstances." A long, pregnant glance passed between father and son ... and that was all. The "Quite understandable, Ambass­ utter relief and justified pride that they ador," Kirk agreed, straight-faced. felt remairled unspoken. "1 have also notified TLian of our progress," Sarek continued imperturbably. "She has an intensive care Sf'xk! ... No ... llo. Oh, my Goo! jim room ready for Spack. Incidentally, Kirk woke up with a start and, coming Stonn is already there. At the moment he back to reality, exhaled a breath of relief is in the operating theatre." as his senses registered the purr of the skimmer as it flew swiftly back to "Oh... was he badly hurt?" McCoy ShiKahr. He could hear the muted voice asked with professional interest. of Sarek speaking into the com-unit on Sirvann's console and more reassuring "According to TLian he received still, Spock's halting breathing as he lay, very serious wowlds but his prospects for hurt and vulnerable but alive, in the recovery are good." reclining seat beside him. Looking up, Kirk met a pair of quizzical blue eyes. "Then aU's well tha t ends well, but it was a close thing," Kirk remarked with a "Taking a nap, Jim?" McCoy asked retrospective shiver. ''I'd hate to think quietly. what would have happened, Sarek, if you hadn't returned early." "Yeah .. no, not exactly. Rather a nighhnare. For a moment, Bones, I was "Indeed," Sarek replied soberly, back up on that hilL.. and we arrived to gazing at his son. "Doctor, your late." diagnosis?" he presently asked. "How is he now?" The Doctor noted the haunted look in the Captain's eyes and nodded, "As well as can be expected, "Normal reaction, Jim. After all the considering the strain he's been through excitement, not to mention the lack of and the loss of blood," McCoy said non­ sleep and the surfeit of emotional shocks committally. "That mind-touch you did it's no wonder you feel drained. What has certainly improved his condition." 87

Sarek nodded, "A pain absorbing Sarek leaned over, laid a hand on meld, Doctor which we initiate when the Spock's brow and locked gazes with his patient is unable to conlTol his own pain. son. "Spack," he spoke quietly as he I presume," he added after a short pause, would to a child, "you are being "that a blood transfusion will be unreasonable. Why can you not accept indicated." that I do for you now what you did for me when my life depended on it? It is as "Definitely," McCoy replied, "his logical now as it was then. As your blood loss must be restored before any mother would say, it is but a fair return." surgery." Surprised, McCoy met Kirk's eyes "In that case, Doctor, vou have no and the same thought came to both need to look far for a comp~tible donor," minds. Father and son had come a long Sarek pointed out. "If you remember.. " way since that memorable day on the Enterprise. Spock stared up at his father, "I am not likely to forget that. T­ wavered, then giving up, nodded his Negative. That rare blood type gave us acceptance. He was too tired to object enough trouble on the trip to Babel. Yes, any more. that would be the best answer provided that your present physical condition As Sarek removed his hand and warrants it, of course. Spack needs quite straightened up, Spock w1expectedly <1. lot of blood." gave a big, cat-like yawn and, dosing his eyes, let his head fall heavily onto his "I believe it does," Sarek replied. Captain's shoulder. "Thanks to you, Doctor, I am now in perfect health." "Bones," the latter said anxiously, "what's wrong? He's passed out." "No .. I cannot .. I refuse." Spock was trying to rise and looking much McCoy chuckled in answer. perturbed. "Wrong, Jim. Spock has just fallen asleep." He cocked an eyebrow at the "Spock, don't. Easy now." Kirk put Ambassador. "Your doing, Sarek?" a supporting ann around his friend's shoulders and eased him gently down. "Yes, Doctor. A light peace- inducing sleep which produces much the '"jim, tell McCoy," Spock insisted same effect as your chemical feebly. "It would cause too great a tranquillisers but without their strain .. I cannot accept... Not Sarek." unpleasant after-effects."

"Now, now," McCoy's bedside McCoy grunted appreciatively. As manner came into play. "Don't put he looked at Spock, at his Warrior's yourself into a fret. No-one is going to trappings and his blissful innocence as he jeopardise your father'S life, you can be slept, McCoy could not but be touched sure of that. You just relax, everything's and also infinitely thankful for the happy gonna be fine." turn of events. His eyes met Jim's, then Sarek's, and he knew that all three shared Spock shook his head, his dark eyes the same feeling of gratitude. clouded with pain and worry. He was not convinced.