shadows6

Home... home... home... home... The word chanted in their minds like a magical incantation.

As the transporter lock released them, both men collapsed onto sun-warmed ground. Kirk fought to repress his nausea. The battle was difficult but one he was determined to win - and did. He lifted himself up onto his knees and looked over to see Spock curled up nearby, his face pale, his breathing erratic. Kirk edged over to him. "Spock, are you all right?" he asked, worried by the Vulcan's condition. "That was a rough trip!"

"Affirmative, Captain," Spock replied. "We narrowly escaped death due to the energy flux interfering with the transporter beam."

"It is likely, Jim, but we have returned home," Spock answered, his eyes becoming warm.

Kirk returned the Vulcan's 'smile' with one of his own brightest grins. "So we are, Spock."

They took in their surroundings; the devastation of the once lush and fertile landscape shocking them. As far as human eyesight could see, the ground was pitted and scarred - the legacy of the violent quakes the planet had suffered. Kirk shook his head, distressed by what he saw.

Spock scanned the area, his superior Vulcan vision identifying, in the distance, the familiar landmark of the bay the Halkan city had once nestled beside. He stood up, helped his shaky captain to his feet, and then employed alien-keen senses further until he caught a glimmer of sunlight reflecting off the duraglaz windows of emergency domes.

Kirk's gaze followed the direction that Spock pointed out but he was unable to discern the structures and shrugged, accepting Spock's word. "Let's see if the ship is still in orbit," Kirk said, bringing out his communicator. "Kirk to Enterprise."

Both men stood - waiting - hoping, then were rewarded by the voice of an excited Scotty, his accent so broad that he was almost incomprehensible to them.

The Vulcan tilted his head, raised the expected eyebrow, and Kirk grinned with deep pleasure at the familiarity of those gestures. Moments later, the beams caught them and deposited them in their own transporter room on board their own ship.

He was interrupted by the noisy arrival of some of the crew. McCoy headed the enthusiastic emotional group, and swept Kirk up into a tight hug, murmuring, "We thought we'd never see you again, Jim."

Kirk smiled with affection at his old friend, returning the hold, and with joy received the welcomes of all who crowded around them. Gradually, silence descended upon the room and Kirk became aware that they had been joined by three people who were very highly placed in the Federation. He glanced around for Spock, seeing his friend attempt to draw his dignity about himself after being so enthusiastically greeted. Smiling in sympathy, he silently summoned him over and together they made their way to the newcomers.

"Captain Kirk, Commander Spock, we are delighted at your safe return but we are at something of a loss," the President of the Federation said.

Kirk bowed his head slightly. "Sir, it is a long story." He turned to greet Ambassador Sarek and Admiral Sharman.

He saw and almost felt the flash of emotion pass between Spock and Sarek. The intense melds during their time in the mirror universe had left him very attuned to his friend. "Perhaps we should go to the briefing room," he suggested.

The presence of these high ranking members of the Federation was a sure sign of the commitment being made to Halka, and Kirk was pleased to see it.

Kirk's and Spock's reports were greeted with amazement which bordered on disbelief.

"I have only one misgiving," Spock commented once his account was over. "Have we, by helping to change the situation in the mirror universe, broken the Prime Directive?"

There was a long silence while everyone present digested those words but finally Sarek spoke, "My son, the Prime Directive applies to this universe. It cannot be interpreted as valid in the multitude of parallel universes that may exist. The other-Kirk kidnapped you both. The responsibility is his. Your presence made a difference, but we can only assume that is to the good of billions of oppressed citizens. Perhaps you and Captain Kirk have helped to restore order in that savage place."

The elder Vulcan clasped his hands together in a gesture similar to his son's, and faced Kirk. "Captain, in the words of one of Earth's greatest bards - 'You have made good of evil and friends of foes'. An admirable example to us all, and the very embodiment of Surak's teachings."

Kirk saw Spock relax under Sarek's approval and was delighted. Whatever estrangement once existed between father and son was now well and truly buried.

"The Ambassador is correct," President Dimarre said. "Your behaviour during this crisis has been exemplary." The distinguished statesman from Vega 3, who held the highest office in the Federation, smiled at them with pride. "You will both receive my highest commendations". His expression became solemn. "We are here to offer aid to Halka. We have offered it without conditions. If the Halkans wish to join us, they will be welcomed as full members with all the rights that entails. They are a proud people and would not wish a dependent status."

Admiral Sharman leaned forward. She had been one of Kirk's teachers at the Academy and had followed his career with keen interest. "The Halkan leader is most impressed by you both. Your immediate response to the crisis saved many lives. The unstinting rescue efforts of your crew have earned the gratitude and admiration of all."

Kirk shrugged. He felt little comfort at that praise, but was pleased that his crew had reacted with such commitment, courage and compassion. "Spock's theories always work," he remarked with a small quirk of his lips. "My crew are the best, Admiral, every single one of them."

Sharman smiled. "The reputation of the Enterprise will surely be legendary after these events become known, Captain Kirk."

Later, Kirk stood beside Spock in the quiet of the observation lounge staring at the beautiful planet the ship orbited. The sense of guilt he had felt in that other universe had returned to plague him. "It looks so peaceful down there, but the whole planet has been torn apart by the actions of that one man. I feel so responsible."

Spock stood close by his shoulder. "No one can be held responsible for the actions of another, Jim. Your words to my counterpart only built upon those instincts already within him. He was receptive to change and would have initiated it himself one day. But by then, countless millions of people in his universe would have suffered needlessly. Maybe he has given them a chance for better lives, Jim, and all because you inspired him to 'summon the future'."

Kirk laughed a little, as he turned to look at his friend. "Maybe... ifs... buts... Where is your logic in all of this, Mr Spock?"

An embarrassed expression flitted across the first officer's face. "There are times when logic cannot apply," he admitted with obvious reluctance. "Please do not inform Dr. McCoy of that opinion," he added.

A wide grin covered Kirk's face. Another secret to keep from Bones! "He'd never let you live that down."

"I won't tell. Your secrets are safe with me," Kirk responded. He chuckled with the anticipation of seeing McCoy's reaction on hearing how a certain servant of the Empire paid homage to his prince. It would send Bones into paroxysms of embarrassment.

Kirk's thoughts returned to his counterpart. "I hated him," he said, needing to talk to the one person who would understand. "He was sadistic, evil, violent; yet at the end when he was totally bereft, when I came to understand him, it was so easy to like him. Isn't that strange?"

"No, Jim. Deep down at the core of his being he was you. When his true personality began to emerge, you could not help but like him."

"Are you saying I've a narcissus complex, Mr. Spock?" Kirk teased, delighted when Spock's eyes grew large with confusion.

"Of course not, Mr. Spock," Kirk replied. He patted the Vulcan's arm, then grew serious as he attempted to express the gratitude he felt towards his very special friend. "I couldn't have survived there without you, Spock. I'm just sorry that you and the prince endured all that torture with me."

"It was our privilege, Jim. Do not be concerned," Spock reassured. "As Vulcans we were able to control the pain. It was logical to shield you as much as possible."

"That word again - logic," Kirk mocked. He restrained the crude expletive he had been about to say. The Vulcan recoiled slightly as if he had heard it anyway. Perhaps he had! "Sorry," Kirk added with an apologetic grin.

It was necessary to return to normality and put the disturbing experiences behind them. He remembered something Bones had said to him, and knew that the shadows of the mirror universe would disappear given time. The Halkans would survive with their culture intact. The Enterprise would continue on her mission. He and Spock would settle back into the routine of shipboard life and the comfortable closeness of their friendship.

If he had one wish, it was for that other Kirk and Spock to find the same contentment with their lives. He would never know, but he had high hopes for the reborn Jim Kirk of that universe and felt reasonably sure that the once embittered lonely man would find the correct path.

He sighed and stared out at the magnificence of his universe, a deep feeling of satisfaction warming his soul. The Vulcan stood at his side. The unmatched rapport flowed easily between them and the same thought was uppermost in both their minds.

Spock studied the sensor readings until satisfied they confirmed that the transfer had been successful. Kirk stood by him, watching the data unfold, smiling when he too realised their meaning.

"Excellent," Spock said. "They are safe. I believe that these indeterminate readings indicate the presence of several ships. I would assume that a major rescue operation is in progress."

The human turned away, his features twisting with emotion. "The damage I've done. And what of the rest of it, the rip in the barrier, the destruction on our Halka?"

"Space will heal itself. We and our weapons are insignificant compared to the power of nature," Spock reached out to clasp the human's shoulders. "We cannot alter the past. We must live with the consequences of our actions. Accept the guilt for your sins as I do for mine. In atonement we must attempt to improve the lot of the oppressed peoples of the galaxy"

Spock increased the pressure of his grip. "I will not tolerate self-pity, Kirk. I need your support. It is imperative that I convince the Vulcan Matriarchy of the logic in this matter. T'Pau must call a meeting of the Council. If they agree with my arguments, they will join the cause. My people prefer scholarly pursuits to war. The Tenets of Surak must be studied and its teachings adopted. Vulcans are not cruel masters, but they must be persuaded that slavery is morally wrong.

"How can I help you? My reputation as a tyrant will be difficult to overcome." Kirk asked. The human's insecurity was palpable. Spock strengthened his shields but realising the foolishness of his response, slowly lowered his defences. He would not isolate himself from Kirk. He must remember Jim's advice on the way to deal with his former captain.

"You are sworn to my service. That means you are required to obey my orders," he snapped, as he was assaulted by the overwhelming human emotions.

A tentative, lop-sided smile appeared on Kirk's face. "May I ask you a question?"

Spock frowned but, although wary of the sudden change in the other's mood, nodded his consent.

The human's smile widened in anticipation and Spock, seeing the genuine curiosity and hopefulness in Kirk, felt his own resolve completely melt . The charm of the man was almost impossible to resist. He was becoming very like Jim and Spock knew as a result of that, wielded far more power than he had ever possessed before.

"Perhaps one day," he said then added, "You may give the order to set course for Vulcan."

Spock raised an eyebrow. "I am in command, Kirk. Do not forget that. I am a prince. You will treat me with respect."

Kirk lowered his eyes for a long moment. "And what am I? I have sworn to follow you and will do so... but not unquestioningly... My lord, I cannot blindly obey."

Spock could barely contain his amusement at the man's audacity. Only days before, Kirk had been completely broken. Now he had regained his natural bravado and was as mercurial as ever! Kirk would eventually learn the meaning of the bond of t'hy'la. Already he had shown a willingness to trust, giving his mind openly and without fear. Deep within the core of the man were the same traits as that admirable counterpart from the other universe. Spock would nurture that positive side of his captain and encourage its fledgling strength.

Jim had changed their lives. With his compassion and forgiveness he had given them both hope for the future. He had brought them together in a manner Spock still did not fully comprehend. Logical analysis was useless when faced with that charismatic human. The alternate-Spock had learned that lesson years before, and had confided about the endless hours spent in meditation in a futile attempt to resist the human's baffling ability to pierce Vulcan barriers.

"I have just explained to you that I do not favour slavery," he said in an attempt to put his former captain at ease. The glowing smile Kirk bestowed upon him was highly disconcerting. "However, I do require your absolute loyalty."

"Enough," Spock commanded. "I will listen to your advice but I will not permit insubordination." He hesitated as he saw the other's skin pale and continued more gently. "I do wish your friendship. Perhaps one day we will be as close as our alternates. That is most important to me."

The gaze upon him grew more intense and the large eyes sparkled in a face which now appeared younger. "It's important to me also. I saw what they had. They tried to hide it for fear of what I might do to them. I was envious of them, but I was even more jealous over the way Jim drew you to him. I thought you loyal to me, then he came along and you deserted me."

Spock shook his head. Sometimes this unpredictable man was more like a child than an adult. "He has his own Spock. However I saw you in him. That is why I was drawn to him."

There was an almost pleading expression on Kirk's face. "Then it's me you want as a friend, not my counterpart."

"Yes," Spock replied, studying the human's face. "It is you who are fated to be my t'hy'la."

Kirk sighed and his grin showed genuine happiness. "Thank you. And will you please explain this mysterious Vulcan word?"

Spock considered for a moment then he decided not to satisfy Kirk's curiosity just yet. There would be time to explain the bond if the human proved his worth.

"You will have to earn the explanation," he said. "Attend me." With an inner delight at the other's startled look, he turned and strode from the room.

Kirk followed the prince from the transporter room. It was very strange for him not to be in command, to stay that one step behind his former first officer, and he wondered why Spock had chosen to act the subordinate all those years. Kirk had always been fascinated by the enigmatic Vulcan but had never dared to really get to know him. He had been too afraid of the Vulcan's aura of power and non-human strength. Now there was a chance to remedy that and if they could achieve a fraction of their counterparts' harmony then it would more than compensate for the temporary loss of his command.

He stared at the ramrod straight back. He wouldn't stay out of the centre seat for long. He would join Spock in the fight to alter the brutality of their universe, and knew that he would be captain of the Enterprise again. Spock would realise the impracticality of remaining in command. Weighed down by the responsibilities of the rebellion, he would delegate more duties to the one to whom it was a natural function. Eventually Kirk would regain full control and would serve Spock in that capacity.

Jim Kirk of the Federation had said he would accept his own Spock's command. Anything the counterpart could do, he could do also. Were they not the same person?

Somehow it would work. In this reality, Spock would be the leader and Kirk realised, with a slight shock, that he was not the least bit concerned about the reversal of roles. His life had taken on new meaning; there was a worthwhile cause to fight for; a chance to expiate his many sins; his prince to follow and maybe a friend to rely on.

As they entered the lift, Kirk automatically called out the command for the bridge. He gasped with surprise as his wrist was caught in a vicelike grip. "Stop." Spock overrode the order. The lift halted and Kirk was held mesmerised by the power of the alien gaze. "You forget yourself."

Kirk grew hot then cold with fear but he mastered it and forced himself to show respect. "Where do you wish to go, my prince?" he asked, the words barely escaping his constricted throat.

Spock's mouth almost turned up into a smile. "It is truly difficult for you to show humility."

"I'm a proud man," Kirk tried not to squirm as the pressure on his wrist threatened to break it.

Jealousy gripped Kirk more tightly than the physical hold on his wrist. Always the other. That alternate version of himself forever stood in his way. "He is not here," he said quietly. "It is I who am your servant. It is I who will be your slave if you wish it." The truth behind his words was a revelation to him. He who had been so afraid was literally demanding... pleading to be accepted as Spock's slave!

There was a long silence. The Vulcan released him and they stared searchingly at one another for a few moments. "Fascinating. I have no need now for slaves or servants, only true supporters and friends," the prince answered.

The expression in the Vulcan's eyes was almost a plea and Kirk responded as if compelled to reassure the other's doubts, his jealousy slipping away as if it had never been. He clasped the slim hand, bending to press his lips to the palm in a sudden fervour of devotion for this remarkable being who was preparing to take on the galaxy. He slowly straightened. "I will follow you until the day I die. That I swear, my prince. I will always be your friend."

Kirk watched in amazement as a dazzling smile spread over the normally controlled features. "I am pleased, t'hy'la," Spock said, "but I do not require that you bow before me, at least in private."

With a mocking grin, Kirk released an exaggerated sigh. "Well, thank you, Prince Spock. I thought I'd have to bow and scrape all the time now."

Spock raised a predictable eyebrow. "I can see you will be most difficult to control."

"The shadows of the mirror universe remain with us, Jim, and they are nothing to be afraid of," the prince said.

There was truth in that statement. He had nothing to fear. The other-Kirk's influence had changed his life. The example of that special friendship had awakened his and Spock's own needs for a similar relationship. The shadows of the mirror were to be embraced wholeheartedly.

Kirk had never hero-worshipped anyone before but he now felt its overwhelming, heady glow. He struggled to restrain it. "You called me t'hy'la again. What does it mean?" he demanded brusquely.

Spock ordered the lift to the bridge then, clasping his hands behind his back, finally relented. "It has several meanings. Friend, brother, lover."

Kirk flushed deeply, turning away as, irrationally, his old fears returned to plague him.

"Jim, the third category is rare but not unknown. We, however, shall be friends and brothers."

"I'm sorry," Kirk said as those words renewed his confidence. "It's difficult to overcome the fears of a lifetime."

"Good, then we have made an excellent beginning. There is much to be done, Jim. We have many plans to make."

The lift doors opened onto a quiet, efficient bridge. Uhura rose from the centre seat as they entered. The rest of the command crew also stood to salute the prince. Spock accepted their acknowledgements and moved across to his science console. "Take the conn, Captain Kirk. It is your place."

Kirk smiled with delight. "Yes, my prince," he said, settling comfortably into the seat.

He had done much irreparable damage but he would salvage anything that he could. First on his list was Marlena. They had not spoken since he had so savagely ill-treated her. Perhaps she would find it in her heart to forgive him.

His thoughts turned to Spock and the alien bond they shared. He remembered the meld when he had opened himself so willingly to the telepathic probing. Why had he done so? He, who was so afraid of succumbing to another's power, had given his mind into the Vulcan's keeping.

Another phase of his life had begun. Before he took up the familiar reins of command he spared a moments thought for the counterparts, hoping that they would be able to put aside the suffering they had endured at his hands.

He looked up to see the Vulcan standing by his side. "How do you know?" he asked.

"The melds I shared with my counterpart were deep. A certain resonance remains."

"I wish them well, Spock. I honestly do," Kirk said. "I caused them so much pain. If only I could make amends."

"You will not wallow in self-pity," the Vulcan commanded. We can make amends by re-making our universe, and working for the good of all."

Kirk cleared his throat. Spock was correct. "I will obey you, my prince," he said.

The Vulcan watched him with amusement and affection in his deep-seeing eyes. "I find your usage of the term 'my prince' most gratifying. You may continue to address me in that manner."

"Yes, my prince. I'll call you that even if they kick you out of the family," Kirk replied with a teasing grin.

The prince of two Empires, raised both slanted brows before returning to the science station. Kirk watched him affectionately, then in an almost carefree manner turned his attention to his duties. He had never been so happy in his entire life.

I have you to thank for this, Jim. he mind-whispered. I won't let you down. I promise you and your Spock that I'll follow, protect, and support my prince... my t 'hy' la until my dying moment.

Kirk swivelled to face him, remembering the words from the spy tapes and how they had once angered him so much.

"I bow to your wisdom, my prince," Kirk said, unable to restrain a smile. "We will succeed."

"Indeed," Spock replied, rubbing his beard thoughtfully. "However, I think it would be prudent to shave this off. It gives me a devilish, menacing aspect not conducive to inspiring trust."

Amidst horrified protests from the women on the bridge, the I.S.S. Enterprise headed for Vulcan at Warp factor 3.

Alone except for the ancient statues that lined the audience chamber, T'Pau, Matriarch of the Vulcan Commonwealth of Planets, watched her brilliant, determined, rebellious great-grandson walk towards her throne. The human who had been his commanding officer followed one pace behind.

The elderly matriarch had always known that Spock was unique. That had been the reason she had permitted a Teacher of Surak's beliefs to guide him during his turbulent youth. Spock's destiny had been foretold in the ancient writings. Through his efforts change would come.

T'Pau had lived through the bloody wars with the humans and well knew of their savagery. She had lost too many kin to their murderous hordes and had bitterly mourned the loss of Vulcan's hard won centuries of peace. A spectre of the past had been raised by the wars that only now was beginning to fade. Once again, her people were able to devote their time to scholarly pursuits without the human threat. It was, however, a temporary lull.

The marriage of her grandson, Sarek, to Amanda had been a highly successful one. The daughter of the Emperor was a charming, independent woman who had helped heal the breach between her people and the Vulcans. The birth of the child, Spock, had been a momentous event for both species and he had fulfilled every expectation. T'Pau had granted his request to join Starfleet, knowing that he needed to see all the horrors of the galaxy before he could understand his task. The risk had been great. His worst danger, but his salvation also, had lain in the hands of the human at his side. T'Pau shuddered inwardly. She could so easily have lost the one being who could change the violent trends of the Terran Empire before it was too late. For once the final battle against the oppression began, it could become a holocaust that would embroil and destroy even the Vulcan people.

Spock had communicated with her privately about the events that had brought him here. T'Pau was delighted. It was the moment she had awaited since his birth; his time of destiny. He now knelt before her and bowed his head. Behind him the human hesitated. She raised an eyebrow, sending a mental command towards him and he flinched then sank to one knee. T'Pau smiled slightly. Kirk had learned respect. Perhaps he could be a worthy bondbrother to Spock.

She reached for the meld points and entered her great-grandson's mind. He greeted her courteously and allowed access to the memories of the events he had described. It took long minutes for her to absorb and, astonished by the revelations concerning the other universe, she slumped back onto her seat and was silent as she contemplated all she had learned.

The proof of the existence of parallel universes was fascinating enough. However the differences in ideology, in the very power structure of the other galaxy, were startling. If the other-Spock was correct though, there were certain constants mutual to both universes. Could it be that the males kneeling before her were the focus? The bond of t'hy'la existed now. She had touched its strands within her great-grandson's mind. Were these two fated to bring a new order to this universe?

T'Pau was a powerful telepath. Spock had inherited that trait from her, but his complex genetic makeup had produced an unusual individual. He was little more than a child by Vulcan standards but his mind was capable of understanding the intricate concepts of the revered teachings of ancient times, normally only studied by the acolytes of Gol. Her great-grandson had gone even further by joining with a human in a legendary bond. This alone would be enough to convince her people of Spock's right to 'summon the future'. With the backing of all of the Vulcan Commonwealth, Spock would alter the direction of their universe. He would convince his human family that change was needed, and in his own lifetime might see an end to oppression.

"I have considered the proposals thee have placed before me, Spock. The course you wish to undertake is dangerous, but I must advise thee that I concur. If nothing is done to stop the policies of the Emperor and his advisors, the galaxy will be embroiled in bloody conflict."

His dark-eyed stare was upon her and she drew herself up, gathered her dignity around her and faced him. "My child, what do you wish to say?"

"I am grateful for your understanding, T'Pau, but if the Emperor is to be convinced, then we must set an example."

Spock gracefully rose to his feet. T'Pau locked gazes with him. Elderly, small, even feeble by his standards, she was still his liege and he lowered his eyes, acknowledging that. She smiled slightly. He knew his place. One day he would be a worthy monarch, strong but compassionate.

She glanced at the still kneeling human and her smile widened. So even Kirk had been tamed. If that was possible then her heir could do anything. Spock followed her gaze and his lips twitched slightly. The two Vulcans silently conspired to ignore the human for the moment.

"There is a Terran saying - 'To put one's own house in order.' It means that we must set an example. The practise of slavery must end. All must be equal in the eyes of the law."

"It is impossible. T'Pau said. "The clan system has existed for thousands of years. The slave caste is content to serve. They are well treated and have access to education and health care."

"They are not free, T'Pau. Their place in our society is unnecessary. In this modern age, technology can replace their services. They must have the same rights as all freeborn Vulcans."

"But what will they do, Spock? They know nothing else!" T'Pau could not envisage her House without the quiet efficiency of her slaves to manage it.

"It is not logical to waste the potential of so many in menial tasks which could be done by automated machinery? The slaves have minds, revered great-grandmother. Many are educated but they are denied the advanced disciplines. How many worthwhile citizens live in the caste of slaves? If they were taught, if they had the choice, would that not benefit Vulcan?"

Spock's eyes were alight with fervour. "T'Pau, it would not threaten us. Give them freedom, allow them the choice of their future. Those who would remain in service should be paid as normal employees, those who wish to train should be encouraged and sponsored. It is unworthy to allow this barbaric practice of the past to exist in our society. None should own sentient beings. Let us emancipate our slaves."

"It is impossible to change our laws so easily." T'Pau argued, but she was delighted in her great-grandson's youthful idealism. It was just what Vulcan needed.

"If you will support me, I will sponsor the new law of emancipation at the next council meeting." Spock continued.

"It is long overdue, honoured Matriarch. The time of change is upon us. We cannot teach the humans a better way if we do not allow all of our people their basic rights."

T'Pau smiled. The son of Sarek and Amanda would cause waves amongst Vulcan and human societies that would never be stemmed. Truly, he was the best of both species. He had the strength, integrity and indomitable will of the Vulcan, plus the drive, determination and intuition of the Terran. Supported by Kirk and the Enterprise crew, and supplemented by the might of Vulcan's fleet, Spock would persuade the Emperor of the rightness of his cause. Change would not come easily but it would come. T'Pau was certain of that. "Very well, Spock. I shall add my voice to thine," she said.

The Matriarch turned her attention to the human, noting how he shifted uncomfortably. "And what of this outworlder. How does thee pledge his behaviour, Spock?"

The human looked up and, for the first time, T'Pau studied him closely. Kirk was a prime example of human masculinity. His muscular form and smooth skin were pleasing to behold and his light coloured hair and vivid eyes only added to his exotic alienness. Aggression was barely leashed in this one, and T'Pau knew that Spock was the only person who would ever be able to control him.

Kirk's eyes shone as he stared up at Spock. T'Pau was well pleased. The human showed his every feeling and obviously worshipped the one he had chosen to serve. That was all she needed to know. Kirk would die for Spock; his sincerity was easily read by a telepath of her experience.

"Jim, I am pleased with your behaviour. You have learned quickly," Spock commented.

A wide smile covered Kirk's face and T'Pau could not help but respond to his charm. "Kirk, thee are unlike thy reputation."

A shadow passed across the human's features. "I was a different man then, my lady. He is no more. Spock calls me t'hy'la and I have sworn allegiance to him."

"Fascinating," T'Pau said. "Thee are most remarkable. It is said of t'hy'la, that nothing - not even death - can stand against them. Be welcome here, Kirk. Perhaps thee will be interested in more of our ancient traditions as thee now belong to one."

T'Pau rose to her feet, resting her weight against her ornamental staff for support. "Are thee bonded, Kirk?" she asked.

"He is unmarried," Spock answered. "Honoured great-grandmother, humans do not bond. You know this."

The colour drained from Kirk's face. "Spock, I don't want to marry yet and if I ever do, I'll choose my own wife."

"No, Jim," Spock replied, his expression showing a touch of amusement. "You are now a member of my family. It is T'Pau's right to choose your marriage partner as she chose mine."

"You're married, Spock?" Kirk almost gasped with the shock of this revelation. He had never suspected such a thing about the Vulcan assuming that his lack of female companionship was due to strict controls or perhaps alien standards of behaviour.

"Oh!" Kirk exclaimed, none the wiser. "Well, I'd prefer that my own be delayed, please." He cast a pleading look at the formidable old Matriarch, but there was a warmth spreading within him at the knowledge of belonging to Spock's family.

"I will consider thy request, Kirk," T'Pau said. "Spock, I will call a special meeting of the council to consider the issue of emancipation. Until then, thee and thy t'hy'la may rest."

Kirk and Spock watched as T'Pau called her servants and was escorted from the chamber. Although of very great age even for a Vulcan, she walked every step of the way, carefully watched over by her attendants.

Spock nodded, his dark eyes showing deep emotion. "It would appear to be possible. However we must be prepared for dissent. There will be many weeks of debate and I will need to call upon all of my skills to win the support of the leading families. I wish you to assist me."

"They'll not listen to me, Spock!" Kirk exclaimed. "I'm nothing to the Vulcan Council."

"You are incorrect, Jim. You are t'hy'la to the heir of Vulcan. That makes you very important indeed."

Kirk thought he had taken all the shocks possible but this further revelation stunned him. "Heir to Vulcan! What about your father?"

Kirk wiped the sweat from his forehead. In all the time he had worked with Spock, he had known so little about him. "Then you have a very real stake in this. You're concerned for Vulcan as her future ruler. If Jim hadn't entered your life, would you have taken this course?"

"I do not know," Spock replied. His eyes gazed blindly into the distance, his mind obviously on the counterparts.

Once Kirk would have been jealous but now he was only thankful that he and Spock had met them. "I've never believed in fate before, Spock, but I've changed my mind about many things recently."

The Vulcan's eyes focussed and looked at him searchingly. "My counterpart believes that in every universe there is a Kirk and Spock fated to be together. Perhaps their unity is necessary in each reality, their task to fulfil some unknown destiny."

The bearded face softened into a smile. "Totally illogical, Jim. The result of too many years of living amongst humans."

A slanted brow rose. "Most interesting and if properly trained, loyal, trustworthy and dependable despite their unfortunate emotional tendencies."

He was teasing. At least Kirk thought he was! Their new relationship was still so novel and he had difficulty in determining Spock's mood at times. Would they ever know the relaxed camaraderie of the alternates? Somehow Kirk doubted that the heir to Vulcan would treat him with the respect the other-Spock showed to his Kirk. A touch of regret swept him over that, but he dismissed it as unproductive. In this universe, Spock was the leader and he - James T. Kirk - would be his liegeman. He would protect his prince with his life.

A long-fingered hand touched his face and he closed his eyes accepting Spock's right of access to his mind. "So trusting, my t'hy'la. I am pleased," the deep voice murmured.

Kirk felt a surge of disappointment when the warm fingertips left the contact points. The mind melds he had shared with Spock had given him so much contentment and he craved for more of that reassuring touch. He grabbed the Vulcan's wrist. "Please, meld with me."

There was a moment of hesitation, then the fingers resumed their previous positions. Kirk welcomed his t'hy'la enthusiastically, almost forcing the powerful telepathic abilities of the other to retreat from the onslaught of emotion.

Spock gathered his control together and their thoughts met and settled. You will need training, Jim, if you are not to overwhelm me.

Kirk's chuckles reverberated within the meld, overcoming Spock and triggering the Vulcan's laughter. You won't succeed, Spock. I'm not trainable!

The two men sank deeply into their link, contentedly basking in the sense of belonging they now shared.

Around them the statues of the ancient deities looked down in silent approval. The beings imprisoned in the stone had foreseen Spock's birth and now rejoiced in the unity of the t'hy'la. They had waited long for this preordained time. Eternal rest now summoned them with its promise of freedom.

They had been sentenced by the galactic court to live out their agonising existence as a punishment for their interference, aeons ago, in the natural development of the galaxy. Forced to suffer with every victim, their only comfort was the knowledge that one day the universe would be righted once more. The seeds they had planted had grown and festered, creating a dark age that had culminated in the reign of terror which now held so many enslaved and brutalised people in its grip.

They had been confident in the innate integrity of the Vulcan species; the progression of enlightenment and civilisation which would influence and temper the darkness of human barbarism. A glimmer of hope had also existed in the belief that amongst the Terrans and their offshoots, there might be some who would attempt to alter their societies. That faith had been justified when amongst the family of the Emperor himself, the Princess Amanda, one who had always tried to improve the lot of those in need, had become a Vulcan's bride and the mother to the 'Destined One'.

Thoughts sped between them, faster than any Vulcan could perceive, as the beings reviewed the incidents concerning the mirror counterparts of the two who now conversed beneath them. They had been the instruments of change, showing Spock the correct path, causing a brutal example of humanity to accept his destiny as t'hy'la to the prince.

Contentment wove between the deities. Their imprisonment was almost at an end.

The bringer of a new order to the universe, glanced up at the worn red stone sculptures of the mythical deities. The human's gaze followed.

Two slanted eyebrows rose in silent comment. "Indeed!" the Vulcan finally exclaimed as the human's laughter echoed round the large chamber.

Spock drew himself up to his full imposing height. "Attend me," he ordered in an attempt to regain authority over this man. The years of serving him as first officer were not so easily disregarded, particularly as the attributes of the other-Kirk were now becoming dominant. His flippant remark to his counterpart about finding himself under Kirk's command again did not seem so far-fetched at times.

"Yes, my prince." Kirk's eyes lowered, but not before Spock saw the amused twinkle in them.

Now Spock understood his counterpart's selfless devotion to his captain, and knew he would have to submerge his own growing similar feelings towards his Kirk. In this universe he had to command; there was no escape now from his duty. His future loomed before him, the daunting tasks ahead would be the greatest challenge of his life.

"I will be your shield-brother, my prince. I will protect you with my life," the soft voice reached his ears. The teasing was gone now, only genuine commitment and determination could be heard.

Astounded, Spock turned to the human. Had Kirk read his mind, or did he now understand him as easily as the alternate could his Spock without the benefit of telepathy? Attuned to him in the mysterious way of t'hy'la.

He reached out. His hand was clasped between two cool human ones and a moment later Kirk bent and placed a kiss of allegiance on the warm Vulcan palm.

Spock absorbed the human's sincerity and was content. He relaxed and his awareness expanded until he seemed to touch sentient minds whose thoughts overflowed with joy.

The prince of Vulcan mentally shook himself and strode towards the door, his t'hy'la following one step behind. Together they left the council chamber with all the hopes of the ancients resting upon them.