Prologue
Commander James T Kirk: Personal log. Stardate 4216.5
This brief summary covers the seven months of my current assignment as helm officer on the T'Varon; a ship belonging to Starfleet's Vulcan wing. I'm happy here now but at first it was quite different. Chosen as the first human to serve on an all-Vulcan ship, I was placed in the charge of the science officer, Lt Commander Spock. It did not take me long to discover that normal methods of human contact had no effect on the Vulcans. Although Captain T'Zen was supportive, the first officer, Selek, and some others were openly hostile. I soon became isolated, depressed and disillusioned. My main problem, however, was Spock's indifference for I was drawn to him and hurt when my friendly overtures were rebuffed.
I was ready to ask for a transfer when the situation changed. Selek attacked me and caused painful injuries. To everyone's surprise Spock offered to heal me in the Vulcan fashion. I didn't understand then why he volunteered but saw it as an act of kindness and accepted. I can still recall the moment during the healing meld when a telepathic link opened up between us. At the time it shocked me and scared Spock for he wouldn't accept what had happened. However, the bond we were fated to share continued to work its way with us, regardless of his attempts to distance himself from me, and in the end he had to admit his feelings of friendship for me. Despite being T'Zen's bondmate, Selek didn't go unpunished and was demoted. Spock became first officer.
Returning from a mission our shuttle was attacked and crashed on an icy world. Spock and I were the only survivors. He was badly injured but I brought him through using survival techniques and sheer determination not to lose him. During this ordeal our relationship underwent a dramatic change as we slipped into telepathic communication and merged in the ancient bond of t'hy'la, a brotherhood of soul revered by the 'emotionless' Vulcans. After our last minute rescue by the T'Varon, it was touch and go whether Spock would survive. I was distraught, and despite being psi-null I reached his mind and drew him back to me. Once Spock recovered we both had to learn to adjust to the intense and complex new friendship we now shared.
The telepathic dimension was exhilarating but, particularly when I was in the wrong, I found that it could also be frightening. Who said that Vulcans had no feelings? They merely restrained them. Spock's rage could be powerful so when it spilled over onto me it hurt and then some. Despite this downside of our bond, it was an honour to be his t'hy'la and I accepted all its aspects.
The next crisis occurred when the crew of the T'Varon were attacked by the devastating telepathic weapon of the Rynami. As the only person unaffected I took command of the ship. Through the mind-meld I helped Spock fight and defeat the enemy. We had heavy casualties. Spock was forced to rest. Another Vulcan ship was diverted to assist us and the captain, Stonn, tried to remove me from command. His attitude infuriated me. My defiance provoked him but I couldn't stop my own foolish pride, or some may say childishness, in refusing to give up the con. My only excuse was that stress played a major part in my behaviour. Yet once Spock had recovered he too had difficulty in regaining command from Stonn. Like a fool I interfered, even after being ordered by Spock to remain silent. He was furious with me and, to my shock, had me arrested. He too was under severe stress. I suffered the telepathic repercussions of his anger and was a total wreck until he had forgiven me. Spock felt guilty over being so harsh on me but we eventually came to an understanding.
Once at the starbase both of us were given medals and promoted to commander. I was also upgraded to second officer. The survivors of the attack were given a much needed shore leave and Spock and I spent an enjoyable time hiking in the wilderness area of the starbase. We have now returned to duty.
End Log.