The morning was dark and grey and it was still very cold. I had spent the rest of the night in the main hall under Wurguist's baleful eye but Spock had remained at my side and had made sure I was as comfortable as possible. He had untied my wrists to give me food and water, placing himself into the role of guardian and protector, much like he had done on the T'Varon. He didn't speak but I was aware of his solicitude. My hands were left unbound.
Most of the army remained at the outpost whilst the rest of us trudged on foot to the forest. A fine rain fell and despite the protection of my Roman cloak, I soon became soaked through and miserable. Gorvus walked ahead of me, Spock was behind, and I consoled myself with the knowledge that the carryall was in the Vulcan's possession. None of the Picts would dare touch it.
A few hours into our journey as we progressed along a wide pathway, the thunder returned with a vengeance. Trees loomed up on either side of us and I was reminded that under these weather conditions, a forest was not the safest place to be. My fears were soon justified when a lightning bolt struck a nearby tree. I jumped back and the trunk split, falling branches hitting the two warriors in front of Gorvus.
I tried to assist with lifting the heavy wood from the helpless men until Wurguist shoved me aside. "Away, Roman cur. This is your doing. You have cursed us."
Spock caught me, and I found my balance. "Thanks," I said, with a wry grin.
He raised the inevitable eyebrow but didn't reply.
Five Picts struggled to raise the tree enough to free their companions. The men were dead, their skulls crushed and it was a gruesome sight. Gorvus murmured some words over the bodies then indicated they be placed at the side of the trail. "We must leave them for the present until the gods are appeased."
We scrambled over the fallen tree trunk and soon arrived at the clearing. Everyone gaped at the eerie blue aura that now encircled the obelisk and the white light that beamed from the top of the monument into the sky. I trembled with more than the chill caused by rain or cold. Something had been triggered here and it did not bode well for the T'Varon or any of us.
The Picts fell to their knees. "The Gods' pathway," Gorvus cried. "The thunder-lord comes to the temple in his mighty chariot." Jagged streaks of lightning greeted those words. "Taranus answers me!" the druid responded.
Spock and I were the only two standing. We glanced at one another and I thought that now would be a good time for his memory to return. We needed his brain working at full capacity if we were to get out of this mess.
Gorvus was shaking but he struggled to his feet and walked to the obeslisk. I had to admire his bravery. "Mighty Taranus, we bring thee a sacrifice to appease thine anger. A Roman who defiled thy holy ground." He seemed to expect an answer but showed no surprise when none was forthcoming. "Bring the prisoner here."
Spock grasped my arm and led me forward. I could only pray I was right about him and that he would not let anything happen to me. Amnesia or not I trusted him. We stopped just outside the shimmering blue light and I realised that it must be a force field of some sort. Spock reached out to touch it and I almost yelled at him not to be so foolish when his grip on my arm tightened and I subsided. To my immense relief he was not electrocuted or dematerialised. Instead the light played along his hand and around his wrist without menace. His eyes closed and I realised he was trying to establish contact with someone - or something.
Gorvus had drawn closer to us. No doubt reassured by Spock's action he also touched the energy field. It snaked along his arm and began to darken. Gorvus jerked as if stung and he screamed as the stench of burning flesh filled the air. Yanking himself away, the druid fell to the ground and rolled about in agony.
Before I realised what was happening, Spock pressed his fingers to my neck. Numbness spread through me and before, I passed out, a fleeting thought comforted me. Spock had not hurt me like Selek, the former First Officer, had once done. As I slid into oblivion my last thoughts were that I trusted Spock and accepted this action he had taken.
***
Spock lifted the human's limp body and leaped through the energy web. It did not hinder him and he landed safely on the other side. On the outside the terrified Picts surrounded the screaming druid. Spock regretted the injury done to the man but there was nothing he could do about it at the moment. The moment Spock had touched the light he had sensed in it, a rudimentary intelligence. The contact had been fleeting and he had understood that the web was only dangerous to those it considered a threat to the obelist it guarded. It had invited him in. He had tried to convince it that Jim was not a danger but had sensed its resistance or perhaps, lack of understanding. He could not risk Jim's life so had made the decision to use the nerve pinch in case the web might have treated him the same way it had Gorvus.
Spock lowered the human to the ground. He could not recall how he had learned the nerve pinch but knew he had applied minimum pressure. Jim should recover in a few minutes with no ill effects. Now it was imperative to communicate with the web and explain his actions. He raised his arms, palms outward, his fingertips tingling as they touched the energy. Once again it caressed his hands and wrists. We are here to assist. My companion and I must be permitted inside the obelisk.
It probed his thoughts but Spock could sense its dissatisfaction at not being able to access the knowledge it required. His impaired memory was likely the problem. Companion, a voice seemed to say.
The web extended tentacles of energy around the prone human. Fearful that it would harm his friend, Spock rushed over to him, knelt and lifted Jim against his shoulder. Nothing would hurt his bondbrother. He would not permit it. At the sudden movement the tentacles halted but hovered close to them. Kirk groaned and began to stir, Spock's fingers curled open and closed before reaching for the human's face. It was an action that seemed normal and a welcome one but he could not quite recall what to do. Kirk had recently shown him the meld points but he was still unable to recall the process.
His fingertips touched Jim's forehead. A smile formed on the human's face and he relaxed. Spock took a deep breath. He knew he could not wait any longer for his memory to return. He needed to know everything and the only way that might be done was through Jim's perspective. He reached for contact, only detecting Kirk's willingness to allow the communication.
At Spock's weary sigh of defeat, Kirk's eyes opened. "Don't worry. It'll all come back. I won't ask why you knocked me out but I assume it was necessary." His expression changed as he saw the tentacle hovering nearby. "What does it want?"
"Knowledge," Spock replied. "I regret to say I have failed. Although I have been in partial contact with it, my telepathy is still erratic and my memory too fragmented to impart anything of consequence. I believe it wishes to probe your thoughts, however I shall not permit it for fear it will harm you."
Kirk sat up and rubbed at his neck. "You must have got something across if it let us through. If it needs a telepath then I am no good to it unless..."
"Unless what, Jim?" Spock asked. Something told him that the human often arrived at the right solution by the most obscure of means.
"Try the mind meld again, Spock, but let the web touch you. Maybe it can augment your telepathy enough for you to read my thoughts."
Spock was appalled. "Do you realise the danger? It may have caused fatal injuries to Gorvus. It could do irreparable harm to your mind."
"You won't let it. Anyway it looks like it's ready to go ahead on it's own. Listen, Spock, how else are we going to get inside the obeslisk? A planet, a star system are at stake here. We have to try."
Kirk was correct. There was no other way. Yet Spock was reluctant to take such a risk. Kirk smiled at him reassuringly, and bowing to the inevitable, Spock reached towards a tendril of light. It slid around his arm. Do not hurt us. Help me reach my companion's thoughts. Allow us to explain to you. Help us communicate with you.
His right hand glowing in a glove of indigo, Spock turned to his friend and touched his forehead again. It was moist with perspiration and Spock recognised the apprehension that caused such a response. He stared into the other's eyes. Kirk was courageous to permit this and Spock knew that he could not fail him.
As a sudden vision of a childhood lesson flashed into his mind, he spread the fingers of his left hand on the other side of Kirk's face. It was how he had been taught to mind meld before able to perfect the technique. Perhaps in this fashion, and aided by the web, he might touch Jim's thoughts and rediscover his own memories in the process.
***
I was scared. Spock in my mind didn't bother me but some sentient energy being? It seemed the only option though for how else could we get inside the obelisk? Its increased defensive actions seemed to indicate that the T'Varon had lost or was seriously outgunned. Very likely there was a battle going on close to Llangia. These Preservers had certainly built to last. The obelisk must be many centuries old, maybe a millenium. If the defence systems had survived that long then what of its makers? Were they on their way at high warp speeds this very minute? Travelling between galaxies the way we do our own?
I curtailed my thoughts, calmed myself and concentrated on the current task. Although I was psi null, I had contacted Spock's mind before, pulling him out of a condition he didn't have the strength to fight on his own. Granted his telepathy had been working then. His fingers were hotter than normal and I assumed it was due to the energy being. I'd been sweating before but I was dripping with it now as the effort took its toll on me.
Spock, t'hy'la, I mindspoke, knowing the significance of that word to him.
There was a ticking sensation in my mind that intensified into a painful probing. It was the energy web but somewhere nearby I was aware of Spock's presence protecting me. Forcing myself not to resist I laid my memories of life on the T'Varon out and sensed them being accessed. One in particular seemed of interest. It was the time Spock and I had linked minds to release the power of meronite crystal to become a weapon powerful enough to destroy the vicious Rynami. We had won the battle but the crew had paid a terrible price.
As it attuned itself to both our wills, the crystal's hum grew louder. Its harmonics vibrated with the force of our emotions as we filled our minds with the enemy's destruction. It hungered to return our nightmarish pain to the Rynami; it quivered - barely under control - as it awaited our command. Spock withdrew and I lingered, scarcely breathing, as I listened with all senses alert for his signal. Suddenly, searing pain swept along my nerve ending as the backlash of the attack on him caught me. I almost blacked out but he was back with me and I was able to remain conscious. I gasped as the numbing aftermath of the assault on him spread through my body.
Now, he commanded. He trembled with shock and pain, but such was his courage that he ignored it and concentrated on our task. Together, as one, we directed the crystal's energy towards the alien force. With one, deep, consolidated effort we blocked its effect on the crew, turned it around, and sent it speeding back to its source. I cried out, as I was bathed in unendurable heat. I clung to the stability of Spock's mind. I, who had been protecting him, now needed his help.
Jim, t'hy'la, only a few moments more, his soft mind-voice told me.
I clenched my teeth and tensed every muscle as we sustained the pressure on the Rynami weapon. I didn't know how long I could maintain this; the strain was intolerable. The crystal's vibrations were becoming erratic now, its glow penetrating through our skin to eerily cover hands and arms.
Spock's warning came only a second before disaster. He released my hand, and I dropped the meronite in response to his order. To my amazement, he threw me clear across the bridge and flung himself over me, protecting me from the crystal's explosion with his body. The glare reached me even through my closed lids, stars exploded behind my eyes and I covered my face with my arm in an attempt to shield myself. Unable to hold onto consciousness, any longer, I felt myself slipping into darkness. Spock, I tried to say before I blacked out.
I grew nauseous as that time was analysed. I became hot then cold; feverish and my head pounded. I was trapped and unable to break free from the cycle of pain.
Jim, it is but a memory. It is over now. The pain is gone.
The relief was almost unbearable. I would have sobbed aloud but for the fact that my mouth was dry and I could scarcely swallow. I used mind-speech instead.
You did the real work.
You are too modest, Jim. Without you I would be dead and the T'Varon destroyed.
You spoke to me! You remember! I opened my eyes as realisation dawned.
His eyes smiled at me in that special way. I do recall that incident. In some way the web has helped me break through and as I touched your memory it jolted my own to return. My telepathy, although a little weakened, appears intact. I do remember our mission here. Some of the rest is unclear but I am confident it shall return given time.
I grabbed his hand and shook it vigorously. I could have been more demonstrative but the Picts had gathered together and were staring at us in shock. Oh, what the hell, I thought, and hugged him anyway.
***
"Lord Vanyar, are you all right?" Wurguist called. He stood a respectful distance away from the shimmering force-field.
Spock released me and stood up. "Fear not, Wurguist. I am unhurt. Kirk and I will try to enter the... temple." He glanced at me as if unsure of how to phrase his next words.
I was still a little shaky but I struggled to my feet and said, "We'll try to appease Taranus. Perhaps he'll listen to us." If they believed in a thunder god, it was not my place to dissuade them. The prime directive was clear. No interference with religious beliefs.
Spock raised an eyebrow then followed my lead. "Kirk is correct. We will speak to Taranus. You must leave now. You will be safer at the outpost."
I took a good look at Wurguist and noted how pale he was, and trembling, but with fear or anger I couldn't tell. "My lord, do not further risk the god's wrath," he said. "The druid is dead. The god's anger is great. Come back with us, I beg you. See how Taranus' servant protects the temple. It will kill you as it did Gorvus."
Spock held out his left hand and a tentacle curled around it. "I grieve with thee, Wurguist. Gorvus was a good man. But see the guardian does not wish me harm. It did not want to hurt Gorvus but it thought he meant violence. It knows I do not. Do as I ask. All will be well."
"As my lord wills. When will you rejoin us?"
Spock hesitated before replying. These people had taken his arrival as a sign that their days under Roman oppression were almost at an end. How was he going to tell them that he might never return to them? "Unknown," he answered. "It will be as the god wills. Farewell, Wurguist. Live long and prosper."
The war leader bowed his head in acknowledgement but I could tell that he was not completely persuaded. "As you desire, my lord." He turned to his warriors. "Lift Gorvus. We must take him back to the outpost."
Wurguist threw us one last angry look before leaving. I had the feeling that he had little time for religion and had only used the bizarre weather as an excuse for persuading Gorvus that I should be killed. Although the manifestation of the web's power might have been what had changed his mind. There was a saying; 'One man's science is another's magic.' A true one, I think.
At last we were alone. "What is this energy, Spock?" I asked.
"Jim, my psi-powers are still sluggish. It is difficult for me to be certain. The web's function is to guard the obelisk, that much is clear. It is able to determine hostile mental emanations and read telepathic thoughts. It could be a sensor grid, a non-corporeal entity or a holographic projection."
"A guard dog," I said.
"I beg your pardon!"
"Its function is to protect its master's property, Spock. Like a guard dog. You didn't describe this, whatever it really is, in your reports but only said that something injured one of the Romans who touched the monument. I spoke to that man at the fortress. He was delirious but described being covered by stinging insects, a heat in his head and the god speaking to him."
"Indeed." Spock's eyes brightened as he remembered. "I recall the incident clearly now. The Roman tried to disfigure a symbol on the surface and was attacked. If the soldier had some psi-ability he might have heard the guardian speaking to him. However, after the Romans left, I and the others touched the obelisk but there was no response."
"Just like those worshippers, over the centuries who brought offerings, the guardian didn't consider you a threat," I said, thinking it out as I went along. "But it didn't try to communicate before now. Something must have caused it to jump to red alert and it became a visible force-field with the intention of repelling anything or anyone. Except that it recognised your touch and didn't harm you. How did you know it wouldn't hurt me, even knocked out by the nerve pinch? "
"I believe it only capable of reading conscious thought."
"I'm glad you were right," I commented.
Spock shrugged and changed the subject. "Your analysis is a logical one. I will attempt contact with the creature again," Spock said. "I will explain our mission."
I grinned at the words - our mission. We were working together again and it felt right. We made a formidable team and we both knew it. Somehow our combined talents made us much stronger. "Be careful, Spock," I warned, not wanting to tempt fate.
He gave me a glimmer of a smile, turned his attention to the guardian, and held out his right hand. A tentacle encircled it. Spock closed his eyes, concentrating in that intense way unique to him. A few seconds passed when nothing moved then, with a suddenness that startled me, the blue light surrounded Spock. I almost threw myself into it but stopped myself. Such a foolish action would only spoil whatever ground was being gained and might hurt or even kill us both in the process. Spock was not being harmed. He appeared to be communing with the guardian and it was essential that he remain undisturbed. However, I couldn't hold still and, seething with frustration, I began to pace up and down. After a while the guardian's colour lightened until it became an icy blue. I hoped that was a good sign but there was no way to be certain. It began to slip away from Spock until only a tendril touched his hands then, almost in slow motion; it withdrew and joined the main body of the web.
Spock staggered and I jumped forward to catch him. His face was ashen and I could feel his body trembling. "Easy," I said. "Just relax." The strain of using his newly regained psionic powers after that head injury was telling on him.
"We must go inside the obelisk," he murmured. "I know the location of the entrance."
"Okay," I said.
He leaned heavily on me but his determination overcame his tiredness. Straightening he moved away from my support and walked towards the building. "Follow me," he said.
A slab began to inch its way open. It stuck for a few moments, then creaked and slid a little more. In all likelihood it hadn't been used for centuries. It was a wonder it even worked at all. Once there was enough space for us to enter at a crouch, I followed Spock inside. Lights came on to highlight an interior that was clean, bright and smelled fresh. There were several chambers whose function at first glance we could not ascertain. What had the builders been like? Why had they left? There were many questions and only Spock might know some of the answers.
Sparkling stones studded the walls of the largest room. There were cushioned slabs on the floor that could have been chairs and mushroom shaped objects near them that might have been desks or tables. Or anything else for that matter.
Spock dropped the carryall to the ground. He slumped down on one of the 'chairs', which immediately moulded itself to his body, leaned back and sighed. "I am weary, Jim, but I must tell you what I have learned."
I stood before him and clasped my hands behind my back as if for a formal briefing. "Rest a moment. Do you want some water or food? There are some rations left."
"Unnecessary." He folded his arms across his chest. Although I had not been aware of the guardian's thoughts during the three-way meld Spock had. "The energy is a living creature. Your analogy of a guard dog is an apt one. It has protected this place from danger for an unknown span of time. It has limited intelligence and can communicate through its low-level psi-ability with a telepath. It barely remembers its masters but its directives are clear. The Irzae attack was brief but as you surmised the obelisk's defense systems stepped up to a higher level. A distress call was sent then the guardian increased its electrical energy to repel all local aggressors. After the Irzae left the alert was maintained and it was not until the obelisk's sensors indicated the return of a fleet that the next stage was initiated."
"The visible force-field, that white beam and the weather changes," I said.
"The beam is a weapon. Of what magnitude it is impossible to ascertain. The creature knows very little about it. Its memory is hazy but it is insistent that the new weather pattern is not part of the defense system. That may have been caused by a computer malfunction. I did, however, discover a way to view what is happening in space. A holographic imager that the guardian has seen used. It is imperative that we find it."
"Yes. It's our only way of knowing what's happening to the T'Varon. Have you any idea where the controls are?"
"Affirmative." Spock stood up and indicated the studded walls. "These are not decorative stones but part of the computer system."
"They could have fooled me," I said, staring at the sparkling gems. "Why did the guardian let us in here?" I followed Spock over to a wall.
"It believes me one of its masters." Spock's hand hesitated over a stone that was changing from its clear state to a deep shade of violet.
"Did you tell it that?" I was amazed for Spock never lied.
"I explained who we were," he replied then added. "There is activity here."
He waved aside my next question. I was silent as he studied the stone, and the only answer to make sense was that either the guardian had become forgetful, or confused, or Spock really must bear some resemblance to the builders. Had they been a vulcanoid species?
Spock spread his fingers out and pressed five of the now vividly coloured jewels. He mouthed something that I couldn't decipher, there was a shifting in the air and we both turned round to see three miniature ships, each about a metre in size, materialise and hover in the middle of the room. One of them was the T'Varon.
"You did it, Spock. Well done." I walked towards, then through the holographic ships to the other side to study them. "There's signs of battle damage on all three of them but now they seem to be just hanging there. How did you get the computer to work?"
Spock raised an eyebrow and replied, "It is a psi responsive system. The guardian is an unsophisticated being which receives its commands from the computer but did not understand what it was observing. Over time, I believe it has lost many of its abilities. I have, however, accessed the holographic control by utilising certain clues found in the creature's thoughts." He indicated the jewelled wall. "That this is a computer, there is no doubt, but one so advanced that it requires careful handling. Fortunately its psi-imaging process is somewhat familiar to me."
"A psi responsive computer? Psi-imaging! I've never heard of any of it."
"It is in its experimental stages on Vulcan. As a student at the science academy, I was involved in one of the early test programs. Simply put, it is a telepathic joining of living being and machine. One sends commands to the computer and in return receives data."
"You interact telepathically with a computer! Sounds painful. It could burn your brain out."
Spock almost smiled. "It did cause discomfort but pain can be controlled."
"I hope so, for your sake. We need to know what's going on out there. Can you tap into the T'Varon's communications? I'm sure Captain T'Zen will be trying to reason with the Irzae." I didn't like him to take these risks but there was no alternative.
"This computer has been here for centuries. Not all of its back-up systems are in perfect operating order and its self-repair functions have deteriorated. I will, however, make the attempt."
I chewed at my lip as I watched him. What he was doing was far too dangerous for if he admitted to experiencing pain with 'primitive' Vulcan computers, how would he cope with advanced alien technology like this? And then there was the worry over the damn thing not working properly.
Captain T'Zen's familiar voice broke into my reverie then her holographic image appeared above Spock's head. "We will not permit you to inflict further damage in this system. The rest of your fleet is disabled. We have reinforcements coming from Starfleet. It is illogical for you to continue this aggression. Surrender at once."
The Irzae captain appeared on the other side of the room. His faceted insectoid eyes were unnerving. "I, Joloth, do not surrender. These planets will be ours. You cannot stop us. Your phaser banks are non-functional. We will fight to the death. Your death."
"Such threats are illogical. Your weapons systems are also damaged." T'Zen leaned forward, her dark eyes so much like Spock's, intent on the other captain. "The turbulence on the planet is escalating. The obelisk's defenses are unknown and there is now a new energy source emanating from it. Logic dictates that it is a weapon. Cease this foolish hostility and return home. We will not follow you."
Joloth hissed with contempt at T'Zen's words. "Vulcan fools. You spout peace and harmony. You follow the doctrines of your sainted pacifist Surak. You don't know how to fight. We still outnumber you. You will be dead before your fleet arrives. This I promise."
Both images faded and I again watched the ships. The T'Varon swung hard about and headed, I assumed, towards the outward reaches of the star system. I smiled, knowing that T'Zen was leading the Irzae away from the planet. They would think the Vulcans cowards but they would follow and once at an acceptable distance, the T'Varon would stop and fight.
I turned to see that Spock was again in communion with the computer. Could he control this system? His telepathic ability, although formidable, was surely not on a par with the builders of the obelisk. I felt helpless as I watched him and could only hope he would be safe.
His face went a sickening shade of green and he staggered back and fell onto the floor. I ran over to him and placed a hand on his forehead. He felt clammy to the touch. "What happened?"
"Assist me to my feet," he said, as I was about to get him a water container from the carryall.
"You're in no fit state. "
"That is an order, Mr. Kirk," he enunciated with slow precision.
I choked back my words of protest and half lifted him to his feet.
"I have ascertained that the weapon is disrupting the weather pattern instead of engaging the Irzae ships," he said.
"So that wasn't meant to happen. Can you repair it?" I asked.
He raised both brows. "How does one repair a pre-armed weapon coded by a mind more powerful than any Vulcan's? It may not recognise my commands."
I saw his point, but there was a way out of any situation. There had to be. "Do you think it'll power down when the Irzae are out of range?"
"It is possible." Spock did not sound too convinced so I racked my brains for another idea.
A sudden cold touch on my neck made me jump. Twisting round I saw a tentacle undulating along from the entrance. "You gave me a fright. Go away, guard dog."
It ignored my words, didn't understand them of course, and slid itself around my chest before making its way to Spock and enveloping him in a similar manner. It was getting affectionate - I hoped - but why? Spock and I stared at one another and I believe that the identical thought struck us both at the same moment. Perhaps the creature had made the suggestion for it had been so interested in our joint attack on the Rynami vessel it had made us replay the memory. Maybe the guardian had more intelligence than we'd given it credit for.
"No. It is too dangerous, Jim." That reaction was expected.
"We go into that computer together, Spock. You're not strong enough on your own. Maybe I can boost you. It may work. It's got to work. If the T'Varon's phasers are out, how will she be able to fight two Irzae warships? Then there's this crazy weather. Who knows what damage will be done to the planet? We have to risk it. It's the logical course of action. You know I'm right. There's no choice. We join minds and make this work."
He was weakening. I could sway him with that magic word - logic - every time. Well, at least some of the time. "Very well, Jim," he said. He didn't have to like it but he knew I was right. "There are times like this when you are prepared to take command, regardless of your subordinate rank."
I could not help flushing at his comment. "I... um."
His eyes were sparkling with amusement. "You are correct. We will begin."
I grinned before responding, "Yes, Commander." The guardian was still wrapped around us and as we moved closer it followed. "Is it going to help us?" I wondered. "How much does it understand?"
"Unknown." Spock stared at me for a long moment before saying, "Are you prepared?"
"As ready as I'll ever be. Good luck, Spock." I smiled again, and put on my best nonchalant expression. He wouldn't be fooled but if I pretended I wasn't afraid, it made me feel better.
"T'hy'la zha axzyha," he said. Even the implant could not translate those two unfamiliar tongue-twisting words. They were soothing though and any tension slipped away.
I was about to ask their meaning but his hand touched my face and in the space of a heartbeat we were in the meld. There was a sudden alien intrusion, the guard dog, and I forced myself to relax. I was more comfortable thinking of the creature in those terms than as a powerful energy being able to fry our brains for breakfast.
* * *
I plunged into a world of lurid colours, strident sounds and fantastic shapes. We flew down dizzying precipices and across sweeping ranges, struggled under heavy liquids and suffocating quicksand. I couldn't breathe. I was going to die here alone and there was nothing I could do about it. Terror gripped me. Ice froze me. I couldn't escape.
A thought pierced the quagmire, one that spoke to me of companionship and laughter, quiet places and clean air. I gulped in that oxygen; my very life depending on it as Spock's voice finally penetrated my fear. We are inside the computer, Jim. You only see in terms that your mind understands. They are but illusion. Do not heed them.
I calmed down a little. Spock. I thought... I believed... I was unable to articulate properly.
Be not afraid. I am with you. Remember the mind exercises I taught you. Exclude all external influences. Concentrate on our link. It will not break. Those words reassured me and with renewed vigour I followed his instructions. The bond was there, sound and secure, and vibrating with our combined strength.
Able now to deal with the work ahead, I said, I'm okay now. You can start. As I was no telepath I was there only for Spock to draw on my strength and stamina, to use as if it were his own. Somewhere nearby I could sense the guardian entity and its willingness to help us.
I followed as Spock enmeshed himself in the relays of the computer system. I remained unobtrusive as he activated circuits and deactivated others as he tried to learn a way to control or interact with the alien technology. It was not hostile to us or else we would never have been permitted entry but I began to wonder if it would really be possible to work with it.
Jim, we have reached the weapon control interface. Spock's sudden words startled me.
Can you do anything with it? I asked.
I will attempt it.
There was silence for a time and I tried to master my impatience. I couldn't tell what was going on and just hung there, in some kind of limbo, until I was ready to bite my nails. Even though I didn't have any here! Come on, Spock, I prompted.
His mind-voice broke the tension. This interface should respond to specific psi-commands but it is malfunctioning.
Improvise, I said. Show the computer what's gone wrong and whom it should be dealing with. Surely its central processor can override the weapons interface?
Fascinating. Psi-imaging techniques activated the holograms. It may work. Please assist me, Jim. My visualisation skills are not as well developed as yours.
I laughed at that, not entirely sure whether to be flattered or insulted. Was he teasing me? Well thanks. All right. Here goes.
I concentrated on the details of the Irzae attack and our mission to protect this planet. Spock relayed them to the computer. The mental effort needed to sustain it was draining me and I soon grew tired. Spock passed me some of his own vitality and, alert again, I was able to continue. Once I had finished, Spock took over allowing me to rest now and listen as he outlined what the computer's next task should be. I couldn't make out its response, although I was vaguely able to ascertain that it was still in contact with us.
A long time seemed to pass but it may only have been seconds. I was disconnected from reality and only aware of this strange world we were in. It was a disturbing place and I was glad of Spock's reassuring presence and even the alienness of the guardian with us. For a being that could kill someone with just a touch, it was remarkably gentle.
A sudden jolt sent me flying down a chasm. I yelled and tried to raise my arms, forgetting I didn't have any here. I clawed my way back but a crushing force pushed me down. I fought against it and called for help. No-one answered and I feared for Spock's safety.
I was falling again. The walls of the pit, lit with a phosphorescent glow, rushed past me and dazzled my non-existent eyes. I was blinded. I couldn't stop my descent so I resolved not to struggle, and allow myself to go with the flow. Once I stopped it might be possible to take stock of my situation. At least I hoped so. I landed with a thump on something soft that I recognised. The guardian had caught me! Thanks, I said, even though it wouldn't be aware of my message.
Then Spock's familiar presence was by my side. Are you well? he inquired.
I've just dropped down an abyss but what the hell! Are you okay? What happened?
The computer's response to my instructions caused a temporary disruption. I am not injured. Are you hurt, Jim?
No. Not hurt, just...
Please, he interrupted. He didn't like crudity of speech and must have sensed my words before they could be said. Vulcans - and in particular Spock - were so damn straight-laced.
I changed the subject. You didn't answer me properly. What's happened?
The computer's self-repair functions are now on-line. Within a short time the planet's weather should stabilise and the beam will be target the Irzae ships.
Well done. Pride in him filled me. Who else could have managed such a remarkable feat?
If my commands are followed, the Irzae will be held in a restraining field and the T'Varon left untouched. However, there is a possibility that all three ships will be damaged or destroyed. This is an alien machine and it is difficult to ascertain what its actions might be.
You've worked miracles here, my friend. Do you realise that?
I would not designate them miracles but I could not have achieved anything without your assistance. Your bravery is outstanding, Jim.
His praise warmed me even though I was sure he was exaggerating my part in it all. You're too generous, Spock. I hesitated before asking the question I'd wanted an answer to for a while. What did those words mean, Spock? I didn't need to elucidate. He knew what I meant.
T'hy'la zha axzyha. Brother of courageous heart, he replied. That is the closest translation. It is a long abandoned language, spoken before the time of Surak. Only the word t'hy'la remains in use.
Thank you, Spock. I would say the same of you. There was no way I could get my tongue round those words and I didn't try.
His subdued but very real pleasure at my response warmed me.
The computer was still having 'temporary disruptions'. Further
jolts in rapid succession shook us but this time we were more
prepared and clung together for support. A sudden whine increased
in pitch and volume and almost deafened me. It was only after it
stopped that I realised I had lost track of the others.
Keep calm, I told myself.
I gasped with pain, trapped between opposing pressures so intense that it took all my will power to remain conscious. I reasoned it must be Spock and the guardian trying to pull me out of the psi-link with the computer. At least I hoped it was. I cried out as something needle-sharp lanced through me. It was paralysing and I blacked out.
* * *
Spock yanked the others away from the computer and collapsed. The guardian fled outside, its simple mind screaming out in terror. Kirk flopped in his arms like a rag doll, his head lolling against Spock's shoulder. The pressure for a human had been too much.
"Jim," Spock murmured. "Jim."
There was no response. Spock took deep even breaths. Once certain he was in control and would remain alert his initial action was to try and establish a mind-link but the human was too exhausted. Spock reached over to where the carryall lay. He opened it and took out the tricorder. He sighed with relief as the readings indicated that Kirk was uninjured. His friend only required rest and nourishment, nothing more.
Spock rose onto his knees, staggered to his feet and carried Jim over and placed him on one of the chairs. It moulded itself to the human even extending itself to become a bed when Spock lifted Kirk's feet from the ground.
Interesting, he mused before looking in the carryall for supplies. There were two remaining drinks and some nutribars. He searched through the medi-kit and found an energy enhancing compound suitable for both of them. He adjusted the hypo for human dosage, pressed it against Kirk's neck, and then touched his friend's temple.
"Sleep," he said. Kirk stirred before settling into a natural slumber.
The building shook and Spock hung onto the chair for support while Kirk slept on undisturbed. Complete silence followed the tremors and once Spock deemed it safe, he sat up and looked at the holographic projection. The result of his attempted reprogramming became clear as he saw the beam streaking towards the Irzae vessels. It enveloped them both and grew denser until the ships were hidden from view. Spock swallowed and permitted himself a moment of relief that it had worked and that the T'Varon hung in space, untouched. No doubt her crew were surprised despite their training in emotional control.
Spock reset the hypo and injected himself with the stimulant. After checking that Kirk was still sleeping peacefully he went to the partly opened slab and looked outside. The sky was blue, the day warm and sunny and no signs remained of the extreme weather conditions. The guardian huddled, now a pale blue rock-like shape, just by the entrance.
Spock knelt and touched it. I do not know how to help you. I regret you have been hurt.
It did not respond and, after a few more attempts at contact, Spock realised there was nothing he could do for it. He returned inside and, taking the communicator out, attempted to reach the ship.
"Spock to T'Varon. Spock to T'Varon. Please acknowledge."
There was no reply. Something was jamming the signal. He sat down and started to work on increasing the unit's power by hooking it in with the tricorder but, his psi-linking with the computer had taken its toll and, despite the restorative medicine, he was unable to maintain his concentration. Before long he was forced to enter into light meditation. His thoughts began to stray to recent events but years of training were not easily dismissed and after a time he was able to find peace.
The Preservers
A blinding light jolted him to complete awareness. In the chamber with them was a white orb, its brilliance so intense it caused Spock's inner eyelids to snap into place. His time sense told him that four point five hours had passed.
A voice resounded in his head. Who are you and why do you interfere with our world?
Spock instinctively knew that this being, or beings for there were five different life patterns, were very advanced. It was logical to assume them to be the builders of this monument - maybe the legendary Preservers. There was nothing else to be done but explain his presence here. It would be simple for them to use force and he would not risk his bondbrother. Jim had endured enough.
I am Spock of the planet Vulcan. I come in peace. Permit me to show you what has occurred.
Very well, they responded.
All the events since the T'Varon had received its orders to come to this star system were laid before them and scrutinised in detail. There was a long silence before the voice spoke again, You surprise us, young one. We had not believed that a being as primitive as you are could communicate with and reprogram the computer. Most interesting. We will now speak with the other.
No, Spock protested. He was still somewhat fatigued from the mind contact but he would fight to protect Jim's privacy. It is not permitted. He stood in front of Kirk as if he could shield him with his body. It was illogical, he knew, but he had to make these beings understand. He can tell you nothing of importance.
You dare to deny us this? Voices echoed in his mind.
I beg of thee. Do not touch him. Spock changed his tactics. It was obvious they did not care to be challenged by someone they perceived to be from an inferior species.
We must find the truth. We shall investigate you further.
He stiffened as they subjected him to a deep scan. It was like being probed by sharp needles, or opened by medical instruments, without anaesthesia. Not strong enough to resist them, he attempted to shut out the pain but only partially succeeded. His head ached but outraged by their ruthless behaviour he retaliated, I did not give you my permission for this examination. Are you so lacking in respect for those weaker than yourselves that you would usurp their rights of privacy?
Their surprise was palpable. Spock wondered if he had been wise to protest but he held his ground. After a few moments their mood changed to regret tinged with a touch of shame and they withdrew back to the level of mind-speech. Spock took a deep breath and his makeshift controls collapsed. He was disorientated, and the pain from their probe returned full force. His sense of violation was almost overwhelming but his years of training served him well and he was able to suppress it for the moment.
We ask forgiveness, the voice said. We have done wrong. We deal so little with lower life-forms that we have forgotten our own strength.
It is not strength but ethics you have forgotten. How could a species so advanced be so callous? Spock closed his eyes and tried to control his sudden trembling and the sharpness of the pain.
Permit us to help. The voice was contrite.
Unnecessary. Spock did not want them anywhere near him again. Maintaining mind-speech was difficult enough. He shuddered in horror at the thought of what such a scan would do to Jim. You are aware of the situation. I have attempted repairs on your computer but I suspect they are only temporary. I would ask that you remedy this and that you help the guardian. It is hurt and I am unable to assist it.
We will do this.
Spock stepped back as the sphere split into five smaller ones. Three of them winked out leaving two remaining. Individually their light was more bearable. He forced himself to speak. I do not know what you gleaned from your probing of my mind but I am required, as per our first contact regulations, to tell you that my ship, the T'Varon, represents the United Federation of Planets, an alliance of one hundred and twenty two worlds. He touched his fingers to his temple and tried unsuccessfully to overcome the throbbing ache.
We understand all this, young one. You need not say more. It is commendable that you would open dialogue with us, despite the grievous personal intrusion you have endured.
Spock ignored those overtures of regret for he was not certain if they were genuine. The T'Varon is an exploratory vessel. Our mission is to make contact with other life-forms. If you permit the T'Varon to enter orbit around this planet, my captain would be honoured to negotiate with you on behalf of the United Federation of Planets. It was becoming difficult to concentrate.
We will permit it and would welcome the opportunity to speak with your captain. A message to that effect is being sent to your ship.
Spock was relieved and, unable to stay on his feet any longer, he slumped to the ground at the foot of Kirk's chair. He leaned his head against it.
We can help you, the voice said. We did not mean to hurt you.
I do not require your assistance. Spock could not bring himself to trust them. When will the T'Varon arrive? he asked.
Shortly. Your captain has been informed that you and your soul-twin are here. This Kirk seems to be a most intriguing creature.
Spock sat up. What had the aliens learned from their mind probe? You will not touch him, he warned again. It is not permitted.
Soft laughter greeted his words but it was not mocking. Do not fear. We have learned our lesson. You protect him with great ferocity. That is as it should be. Even amongst we, whom he has called the Preservers, such a bonding is rare.
"Indeed," Spock said but, still wary, he settled back to wait.
The orbs floated in the air and made no further contact. After a while, Spock heard Kirk murmur his name. He looked around to see the human stirring. He knelt up and touched the other's forehead. Jim, the Preservers are here.
Kirk's eyes opened and stared into Spock's. "The Preservers! Where?"
Be careful, Spock warned.
Kirk acknowledged that, swung his legs off the bed, and stood up. His eyes widened and Spock, fearing he would attempt contact, placed a restraining hand on the human's shoulder. They are telepaths of immense power. Do not approach them.
Kirk was about to reply when he was distracted by a distortion around the spheres. He closed his mouth and watched as two solid bodies formed in their place. Spock studied the newcomers with great interest. Tall, young, blond and vulcanoid, the Preservers still radiated some of the brilliance of the orbs in the halo of light that surrounded them. Spock nodded his head a fraction and Kirk followed his lead. In response the two vulcanoids bowed from the waist.
* * *