Starbase

Professor LLan Warr gathered the small group of students around him. He had been undecided whether to invite Pryce-Jones this time but after discussing the matter with Solberg they had both agreed that overprotecting Spock would not be in his best interests. The Vulcan had to learn to deal with humans and all their foibles. LLan Warr believed that jealousy rather than xenophobia had caused Gavin's outbursts, still that did not excuse him and after giving him a strong warning had included him in the trip to Starbase Operations Centre.

The Deltan sensed Jim Kirk's excitement over the chance to view the inner workings of the starbase. Although the boy had visited before with a group of command students he had not been allowed the close view that LLan Warr had been able to arrange for his select few. Spock stood nearby, an aura of calm radiating from him. Carol and Sariya waited with faces alight with eagerness, and a subdued Gavin Pryce-Jones stood at the back.

An excellent group. The cream of Federation youth, LLan Warr thought. "Commodore Leonides has given permission for you to sit with the personnel at their stations to watch them at work," he said aloud. "This privilege is granted to few, so please do the Academy proud. Listen and learn. Now follow me."

He led them to a guarded door marked control centre. After a security scan they were allowed through. LLan Warr escorted them along a maze of corridors and into a high-speed turbo-lift that took them down many levels before it stopped and moved along the horizontal plane. "The efficiency here is second to none with some of Starfleet's top staff on the rosters," LLan Warr said. "Many are former field personnel who have transferred to ground assignments to raise their families. This part of the base is the most heavily protected. It is the nerve centre of Starfleet operations in this sector."

"There have been recent attacks on outposts but there's not been one against a starbase for over thirty years," Kirk said.

"Correct, Mr Kirk, but we should not be complacent. The Federation still has its enemies."

After the lift stopped a short walk took them to the command hub of Starbase 7. It was a large complex whose main operations centre was similar in design to a starship bridge. The giant screen that dominated the room showed a schematic of the Tau Ceti system.

"These operators deal with the docking arrangements of ships requiring berths here and the many other tasks necessary on a major base." LLan Warr pointed to the centre seat. "That is Commodore Leonides who runs Starbase 7."

As if he had heard, Leonides swivelled his seat round and stood up. He was a tall man. Black haired and dark-skinned, a former starship officer who LLan Warr in the capacity of a civilian expert had served with for a time.

"Welcome, Professor," Leonides said. "So these are your star pupils."

Apart from Spock who stared ahead, the youngsters glanced at one another with widened eyes. LLan Warr grinned at his old friend before introducing the cadets. The commodore's gaze dwelt on the Vulcan for a long moment before drawing away. The Deltan noted that his young protege, as he now considered Spock although Stefan might want to claim that privilege, appeared composed despite the almost overpowering bustle of the place. The other cadets were not so calm.

The youngsters were to work with experienced officers and LLan Warr made sure that the Vulcan was assigned to Lt Olssen at the main science station. Spock seemed familiar with the workings of the console and LLan Warr recalled that it consisted of Vulcan technology adapted some years ago by Starfleet. Spock probably learned it in junior school, LLan Warr mused as he watched the youth engage the science officer in conversation about technical matters so complex that the poor woman began to flounder.

"An interesting group of youngsters," Leonides murmured.

"That is an understatement, my friend," LLan Warr replied.

Both watched as the Vulcan picked up an aural receiver and adjusted it to fit in his ear canal. A look of intense concentration appeared on his face and just as the science officer was about to speak the Vulcan, without waiting for the computer, began to report the sensor data.

"I can't believe it!" Leonides exclaimed. "Is he doing what I think he's doing?"

LLan Warr could sense his astonishment. "I'll ask him." He brushed by the astounded science officer. "Mr Spock, please explain what you are doing."

Spock focussed on him but LLan Warr was certain that he was still decoding. "I am reading the sensors, sir."

"You can decode the sensor blips?"

"Affirmative, sir."

Olssen was staring at the screen. "He's accurate too, Professor. Look the computer confirms it. I've never seen anything like it."

Everybody stopped to listen. "Just think of the time that would save in an emergency situation," Leonides said. "How long have you been able to do this, Cadet Spock?"

"Training in this sensor technology was given at the Vulcan Junior Science Academy, sir." Spock's voice was even but LLan Warr could detect a slight edginess in him.

"Can all Vulcans do this?" the commodore asked.

"Not to my knowledge, sir."

Leonides shook his head. "But this is an amazing skill. Please continue and Lt Olssen, verify Mr Spock's readings for reference purposes." He drew the Deltan aside. "I'd heard the boy was exceptional but this is just mind-boggling."

LLan Warr clasped his hands together. "He's destined for starship duty, Dmitrios. He would be wasted on a starbase."

"You're right, although some might disagree. They'll be fighting over him for sure."

After a morning spent in operations centre, the group went for lunch. Spock sat in silence as the others talked excitedly about their hands on experience of starbase work. Kirk glanced often at Spock and as he sipped at his coffee, seemed to gather himself together before asking, "Mr Spock, how can you read sensor blips?"

Spock looked over at him as if startled. "Unknown."

"It'll be very useful in the future."

"It's a quirk," Pryce-Jones said with derision. "A freak ability of little practical use."

"Jealous again, Gavin?" Kirk taunted. He was sick and tired of Pryce-Jones' attitude. "When Spock shows how unique he is, it makes you real touchy."

"Gentlemen," LLan Warr cut in. "Please remember your manners. Courtesy is expected of Starfleet officers."

Both boys quietened but the cause of their argument surprised everyone when he spoke. "Mr Pryce-Jones is an excellent scientist but his constant attempts to discredit me reflects on his character in a negative manner."

Everyone at the table sat with their mouths hanging open. Pryce-Jones flushed a deep red as Kirk and the two girls began to laugh. LLan Warr coughed as if trying to control himself but Spock sipped at his tea as if nothing unusual had been said. Well done, Spock, Kirk said to himself. That's the best put down I've heard in a long time. Who would have believed you capable of it? Kirk suspected, though, that there were hidden levels to Spock that would take years to discover never mind understand.

Pryce-Jones was quiet as they all left the mess hall and took a buggy to auxiliary control. Kirk hoped that the brat had learned his lesson but somehow he didn't think so. There would be another time. Carol and Sariya were whispering together and Kirk could hazard a guess about the subject under discussion. He grinned at Carol and she returned it. She was a gorgeous girl who had shown interest in him but he was nervous around women. So many had made a play for him that he often regretted his good looks. He had the same needs as any other boy of his age but was insecure about asking Carol or anyone else out on a date and had hidden behind his work.

Auxiliary control was a smaller version of the command centre and in an emergency the base could be run from here. In command was Lt Commander Singer, a small red-haired woman in her thirties, who along with Lt Krishnamari on communications and Lt Hassan on engineering monitored the systems. There was more freedom here for the students to work the stations without supervision and Kirk revelled in the opportunity. He studied the defence and weapons consoles then glanced up to see where his companions were. Carol was at the environment console while Sariya sat at the security monitors. Kirk gave a short laugh at the incongruous sight of Gavin sitting at the conn but Spock - no surprises here - was at the science console. Professor LLan Warr stood at the back of the room his sharp eyes taking in his students' every movement.

Spock straightened and something in his body language alerted Kirk. "What's wrong, Mr Spock?" he snapped.

"Sensors show that an approaching ship is on collision course with the base."

"What!" LLan Warr dived over to the communications station. "Auxiliary control to Commodore Leonides. Emergency. Come in please" The base staff looked at him in shock then Lt Commander Singer jumped to her feet.

"Leonides. What is it LLan?" The voice over the speaker was clipped.

LLan Warr gestured to the Vulcan. "Sir, this is Cadet Spock. Sensors show that the transport ship Hirayama is out of control. It will crash onto the base in 15.25 minutes."

There was a moment's silence from the commodore before he barked out a series of orders. As the red alert sounded, unnaturally loud in the small room, Kirk called up the shipping manifest on his screen. He pinpointed the Hirayama and studied its course. It did appear to be out of control but why were they not responding to any hails?

Leonides' voice was calm. "Emergency. This is not a drill. Launch fighters. Defence protocols - Alpha One. I repeat. Launch fighters. Alpha One. Activate satellite defence systems. All approaching ships maintain your distance. Ships in parking orbit stand by. Cadet Spock, your findings have just been confirmed. Keep monitoring. Continue reporting to me."

"The only way to stop that ship crashing is to get a tractor beam on it," Kirk said. "The other ships out there are only scouts or starliners and the fighters aren't powerful enough to hold a transport vessel. We need a starship. The only other alternative is to destroy her."

"Alpha One means that they'll destroy the Hirayama if necessary," Singer said.

Kirk bit at his lip. It was a code he had never heard of before.

"The Hirayama will not be in range of satellite tractor beams for 10.65 minutes." Spock's brow creased in concentration. "There is a faint signal coming in on a non-Starfleet frequency."

"What!" the communications operator exclaimed. "I don't hear a thing."

Spock's hands sped over the console. "I am boosting the signal, Lieutenant."

The man's eyes widened. "Got it." He fed the information to the operations centre.

Moments later a voice came over the speakers. "Mayday. Mayday. This is Technician Abrams of the transport Hirayama. The rest of the crew are unconscious. Some kind of fast acting gas was filtered through the ventilation system. I escaped because I was suited up for maintenance detail on the outer hull. I've enough air left for ten minutes. I'm sending this on the only frequency I could access. All other systems have been sabotaged. I can't stop anything. The saboteurs have left on one of our shuttles. I don't know who they are. Our cargo consists of high explosives. You have to stop the ship from crashing."

"There is no time to evacuate," LLan Warr murmured. "They'll have to destroy her."

Kirk bit his lip. "They'll be able to use the tractor beams, sir." He took several deep breaths to control his fear. The officers in charge were all highly experienced. Everything would work out. All bases had emergency collision procedures and Spock's ability to read the sensor blips and lock onto the message would have given them extra time to initiate countermeasures to stop the Hirayama. The alternative was too horrifying to envisage and he dismissed it.

They listened in on the operations centre. It was a hive of activity as preparations were made to capture the rogue ship. "Power drain," a voice called. "Fighters grounded," another voice said. "Controls are computer locked.

"Give me auxiliary power," Leonides snapped. "Fighter command, what's going on?"

"Unknown, sir. The whole system is jammed."

"Satellite control to base. All systems failing," yet another voice intruded.

"Auxiliary power," Leonides repeated. "At once."

Kirk shivered as the hum of voices fell. The hackles rose on his neck as Leonides shouted, "Transfer command to auxiliary control. By order of Leonides, D. Zero two five. Singer... " Choked groans were followed by an almost unearthly silence.

"What's going on?" Singer snapped. "Raise them."

"Auxiliary control to operations centre. Come in please," Krishnamari called. There was only static. "Nothing, sir," he added.

Spock spun around. "Oxygen masks," he snapped.

LLan Warr did not hesitate. He opened the emergency cabinet, grabbed a handful of masks and threw one to each person in the room. Kirk fitted his own on and tried not to gulp in the flow of air. He had been trained in their use. Calling them masks was a misnomer; they were in fact personal two-hour oxygen units.

"This is ridiculous," Gavin said. "Why do we need these." He held a unit in his hands. "There's no gas here. Why do you always listen to the Vulcan?" He suddenly clawed at his throat before trying feebly with hands that would not obey him to put the mask on his face. LLan Warr was beside him in a moment, placing the unit on him and securing it. Gavin drew in a deep breath and slumped onto his knees.

"Picking up gas readings throughout the base," Carol Marcus reported. "Levels rising rapidly in auxiliary control."

The Starfleet officers were well trained and did not panic but Kirk wondered if they would be able to deal with the situation. He closed his eyes, bitter tears welling up as he wondered if any of them would survive this day.

Singer strode over to the communications console. "Send a priority distress call to Admiral Simonson at the Academy. Warn them to use environment units."

"It'll take too long," Pryce-Jones cried. "We're all going to die."

"Quiet," ordered LLan Warr.

Pryce-Jones had recovered now. He jumped to his feet and ran to the doors that had automatically locked as soon as the red alert had sounded. He scratched at them in mindless panic. "Let me out," he screamed. "Let me out!"

Hassan, who was nearest him, tried to soothe him but he pulled out of her grasp knocking her mask off in the process. Her eyes widened in horror, her mouth opened in a silent scream then she collapsed. Marcus picked up the fallen mask and placed it over the woman's face but then on an order from LLan Warr she resumed her place at the environmental console.

The Hirayama was drawing closer. Kirk watched the computer representation on the main screen. Just one more minute before the ship was in range of the ground based tractor beams. Was it possible for three young officers, a few cadets and a civilian to take the place of specialists?

Pryce-Jones was still screaming. Kirk turned round to see him rip Spock's mask off. "It's all your fault, Vulcan. You should pay for it." But before Kirk could reach them Spock had placed his hand at the junction of Pryce-Jones' neck and shoulder. Gavin's eyes bulged, he whimpered, then he collapsed to the ground. Without another glance at the human, Spock picked up his mask, put it back on, and returned his attention to the science station.

Kirk brought himself up short. So that was the Vulcan neck pinch. Analysis later, he told himself. If there is a later, a small voice tormented. With a defiant smile he dismissed it and resumed his seat at the weapons console.

LLan Warr had been speaking to Simonson. He turned to the occupants of the room. "They're on their way but until they arrive it is up to us."

Singer straightened her shoulders. "Mr Kirk, prepare tractor beams. Mr Spock, I need an accurate trajectory for the Hirayama."

"Calculated, sir. Transferring data to the weapons console now."

Kirk studied his controls. Auxiliary power was holding and ground stations were still operational. "Tractor beams ready, sir." He waited for the inevitable order. "Tractor beam on, Mr Kirk."

"Tractor beam engaged." He concentrated on his sensors and breathed again as he reported, "Hirayama halted." He checked the phaser banks. The readings coming through made him flinch but he controlled his reaction. "Phaser power is down by one third, sir, and dropping."

Singer chewed at her lip. "Screen on. Magnification twelve, Mr Kirk," she commanded. "Let's hope we don't need to use phasers."

"On screen, sir," Kirk replied.

LLan Warr had seated himself at the next console to Kirk. As the view of the Hirayama enlarged, and they could almost see the tractor beam struggling to hold her, the Deltan muttered several words in his own language.

"Tractor beams are weakening, sir," Spock said. "Hirayama has resumed collision course."

"Main viewer," Singer said. The view of Hirayama was replaced by computer graphics, which clearly showed the energy loss. Everyone stared at it in horror. "We need more power to the beams," Singer said. "Suggestions."

"We'll have to use phasers or photon torpedoes to destroy it," Krishnamari said.

"There is an alternative." Spock's deep voice was calm. "I can divert all remaining power from the phaser banks to the tractors."

"Do it," Singer cried.

"Thirty five seconds to planetary atmosphere," Kirk said.

He counted the seconds down in his head. Twenty five..twenty...fifteen.. ten.

"Power transfer completed," Spock said in an even tone.

Kirk studied the readings and his heart skipped a beat. "Supplementary power to tractor beams confirmed," he said. Well done, Spock.

Admiral Simonson's voice came over the speakers. "Auxiliary control, we've reached operations centre. Brief me on your current situation."

There were sighs of relief all round as they heard that message. Kirk stared at the screen depicting the force that held the enormous ship that would have destroyed the Base, the Academy and much of this continent. He did not know who had sabotaged the ship and the Base systems and why, but Starfleet Security would catch the culprits. Of that he was sure.

Command was returned to the operations centre and Simonson relayed a message to Starfleet Headquarters, informing them of the situation. In response a starship was being sent to help them. Simonson recalled every off-duty officer who had been outside the base and seconded as many Academy staff members and cadets as possible to replace personnel affected by the gas. He ordered those in auxiliary to remain on duty.

A weary LLan Warr looked at the chronometer. It was early evening and they were still waiting to be relieved. Spock was monitoring the operation to nudge the Hirayama into a safe orbit where she was to be boarded by Academy personnel with the required knowledge to power down her systems and treat her crew. The Deltan tried to relax but, with the base buzzing with excitement and fear adding to the emotions caused by the recent events, even a low rated empath like himself was on edge. He hoped that Spock was coping with it. The Vulcan's true psi ability was undetermined as Spock was so difficult to read but LLan Warr had a feeling that it was of unusual power. At times like this he feared for the youth's ability to maintain his calm.

He then considered Pryce-Jones who had recovered from the neck pinch and now lay in silence on a medical bunk. It was almost certain that Gavin's future at the Academy was now in serious doubt. What a waste of a potentially fine scientist.

LLan Warr was proud of the other cadets and in particular of Spock whose abilities had been responsible for saving the starbase. Kirk, though, had also behaved in an exemplary fashion, showing his mettle under duress as he had with calm self-assurance taken responsibility for the tractor beams. The two young women had also acted like seasoned officers. As for the base staff, Hassan had been violently ill and was now lying in a deep sleep but she along with Lt Commander Singer and Lt Krishnamari had performed well under the most difficult of circumstances.

"Sensors indicate a starship entering the system," Spock said.

"That was quick," Singer said. "Can you identify her?"

"She is hailing the base," Lt Krishnamari said. "I'll put it on speakers."

"Starbase Seven, this is Captain Pike of the USS Enterprise. We're here to assist you,"

"This is Admiral Simonson of Starfleet Academy. I'm afraid it's mainly just us teachers and our students running things, Captain Pike. Base personnel are too sick at the moment."

Lt Krishnamari adjusted some dials and the picture on the viewer shifted from the Hirayama to the Enterprise bridge. Christopher Pike was a well-respected officer who had recently taken command of the Enterprise. LLan Warr remembered him as a thoughtful young man whose intelligence and bravery had brought him many accolades. Kirk leaned back and sighed. LLan Warr could almost feel his heartfelt wish to be on that ship. And you will make it, young man, the Deltan thought. You're command material just as surely as that man on the bridge is.

It was another two hours before the team in auxiliary control was relieved of duty. Commodore Wallace strode in along with several starship officers and some Academy medics. "You all did a fine job," Wallace said. He grinned at the students. "I'm very proud of you."

One of the nurses supported an ashen Gavin Pryce-Jones round the shoulders. LLan Warr took pity on him. "Can you return to the Academy?" Certainly the boy had inhaled some of the gas but the effects of the nerve pinch were unknown.

"Yessir," the boy replied. "Permission to leave, sir."

"Someone go with him. Make sure he rests," Wallace said.

Sariya took Gavin's arm. "I'll go, sir."

Kirk and Marcus exchanged glances. LLan Warr knew what they were thinking. Wallace knew nothing yet about events here but the security monitor would show it all. After Pryce-Jones and Piall had left and Lt Hassan was carried out on a stretcher, Wallace said, "Cadets Spock, Kirk and Marcus, you are dismissed. You'll be called for debriefing later. Go and rest."

The Deltan watched them leave. He had caught a brief glimpse of the strain the young Vulcan was under and it worried him.

A little while later, Spock, James Kirk and Carol Marcus boarded the monorail which would take them back to the Academy. They were all silent as, now that the emergency was past, reaction set in. Spock kept a tight grip on his shaky shields, hoping that they would survive intact until he was able to strengthen them again. The mental distress from those who had succumbed to the gas added to that experienced at such close proximity had caused him blinding pain. Of necessity he had overcome it but now it had returned full force to plague him.

They arrived at the Academy, its grounds unusually quiet now with so many of its inhabitants away. From a distance he heard Kirk's voice and sensed despite his own pain that the young human was concerned for him. Spock found some strength to answer him before he escaped to the sanctuary of his quarters where, exhausted, he almost fell onto the bed.

Control, he willed himself, and concentrated on the task ahead of him. If he could not learn to be as emotionless and logical as a full Vulcan he would not fulfil his ambition to serve on a starship. He would be crippled after every crisis. Useless to himself and his shipmates.

***

A day after the attack, Admiral Simonson along with the now recovered Leonides plus Demarco and Pike viewed the security log. His astonishment gave way to appreciation as he realised what they all owed to the Vulcan cadet's abilities. Even an experienced officer would have found it difficult, if not impossible, to do what this mere boy had done. The tape also gave them insights into the characters of all the young people thrown into this pressurised situation far better than any simulator test could have done.

"When that Vulcan boy graduates I want him on my ship," Captain Pike stated. "With your permission, Admiral, before I leave I intend to offer him the position of science officer, junior grade, on the Enterprise."

Admiral Simonson looked at him. "I don't know how long it'll take Spock to finish his course here but if you want to recruit him for the Enterprise you can. He'll be a fine addition to your crew." He slapped the desktop. "We owe those youngsters a great debt. The auxiliary control team was outstanding. The cadets kept their head. Spock found the answers. Kirk acted like a true command officer and Marcus and Piall behaved in a mature and responsible manner. The Academy can be very proud of them."

"You should be," Commodore Leonides said. "We'd all be dead if weren't for that Vulcan youngster. I think awards are in order."

Simonson nodded. "Just what I was thinking. However I am concerned that an awards ceremony might make them a target for whoever organised the attack."

Captain Pike stood. "You could give them in private but you can't allow terrorists to stop you from publicly honouring our people's bravery. Whoever did this were not amateurs. They must have had spies on the base. They'll already know who thwarted them. When is Intelligence going to find out who was behind this?"

"I don't know, Chris, but you're right. I'll make sure there's a strong security presence," Leonides said. "They wouldn't dare try anything."

"As for Pryce-Jones," Pike remarked, "I'm glad that his inability to cope was discovered before he was faced with any shipboard dangers. In my view it just confirms how wrong some psych test results can be. He's passed all of them with flying colours. The whole system needs to be revised."

"He's a good scientist," Demarco said. "We could use him in a safe ground assignment within Starfleet. If not one of the private corporations will give him a job."

Leonides shook his head. "We don't need someone who'll panic like that."

"I would agree, " Simonson said and then the officers sat in silence mulling over everyone's words before an investigation into the psych test procedures was decided on.

***

Four days later, the lights shone on the dress uniform finery of those commanding officers who sat on the podium. LLan Warr, James Kirk, Spock, Carol Marcus and Sariya Piall along with Starfleet officers Singer, Krishnamari and Hassan sat in the front row of the audience. The only person missing was Gavin Pryce-Jones. Commodore Leonides addressed the packed auditorium and those who watched on monitors all round the Academy and Starbase. "We are here to express our gratitude to those whose actions saved thousands on this planet from death. They were in auxiliary control when the crisis began and through their bravery we are all alive today."

Kirk glanced to where Spock sat motionless. It was the first time he had seen the Vulcan since the end of the emergency and he noted that Spock was paler than usual. Kirk thought of Pryce-Jones, who was rumoured to have quit the Academy, and for a moment he wondered where Gavin would now find a job. His attention was drawn to Leonides presenting medals to Lt Commander Singer, Lt Hassan and Lt Krishnamari and giving a special award to Professor LLan Warr in appreciation of his contribution. Kirk applauded but was too excited to listen when the commodore spoke again. Only when the sound of his name registered did he come out of his reverie.

He stood up, straightened his spine, strode forward and faced Commodore Leonides who smiled then said, "Cadet Kirk, on behalf of Starfleet I am pleased to give you this Award of Valour for your actions during the emergency. Congratulations."

"Thank you, sir." Pride filled Kirk as the ribbon was pinned on his uniform shirt.

Carol and Sariya were called next and both given commendations for bravery. The young women were flushed with pleasure as they resumed their place amongst the other cadets. Carol's smile to Kirk was brilliant.

Leonides continued, "This next honour goes to a cadet whose special abilities and scientific expertise were instrumental in saving this starbase. Spock of Vulcan." Spock stepped forward and stood ramrod straight as Leonides continued, "On behalf of Starfleet I am honoured to present you with this Award of Valour for your exceptional work under duress." He pinned it on the Vulcan's shirt. "Also on behalf of Starfleet Science Division I am proud to give you this Medal of Scientific Achievement for your ground-breaking theory of Sub-Dimensional Warp Physics. Congratulations, Cadet Spock." He handed him a small gold medal encased in a black velvet container.

Spock accepted it with a bow. "I am honoured, sir."

Leonides smiled and as Spock made his way back, Kirk felt a surge of pride in him. The Vulcan was his friend, sort of, and it was good to see him being appreciated.

The ceremony over at last, the small group found themselves surrounded by superior officers. Spock looked uncomfortable and Kirk, without thinking, went to his side. The Vulcan blinked then he seemed to relax.

Captain Pike joined them. "Cadet Spock, are you well now?"

"Affirmative, sir."

Kirk felt a pang of guilt for not knowing that Spock had been ill. He had not even inquired. In the last two days he and Carol had become closer and all thoughts of the Vulcan had been pushed to the back of his mind. He vowed to make it up to Spock but as Pike took the Vulcan aside and they left the hall, there was nothing he could do but stay here and speak to those around him.

After everyone had left, Kirk headed for the fountain. Spock was there and Kirk was pleased at having found him. "Hi. I wanted to congratulate you."

Spock faced him. "My congratulations on your award, Mr Kirk."

Kirk twisted his fingers together. "I'm sorry. I didn't know you were ill. I should have checked. Are you all right now?"

"A minor indisposition. I am in excellent health now."

"We were all in shock after what happened. I don't know how it would have affected a telepath." Kirk saw the other's colour darken and knew he had hit on the truth. "If there is ever anything I can do to help."

Spock's eyes seemed to glow. Perhaps it was a trick of the light. "Thank you. Would you care to continue with your studies this evening?"

Kirk laughed softly. "I most certainly would, Mr Spock." He sat down on the stone. "If I'm not prying, will you tell me what Captain Pike wanted with you?"

"He offered me a position as a science officer on the Enterprise."

"Wow!" Kirk exclaimed. "That's fantastic. Did you accept?"

"Affirmative."

"She's the most beautiful ship in the fleet," Kirk said. "One day I want to serve on her."

"Perhaps you will be her captain," Spock replied.

Kirk felt a thrill run up and down his spine at those words. It was his dream. Was it an impossible one? "Perhaps, Mr Spock, perhaps." He sighed. "Well if I don't pass my science exams I won't ever become a Starfleet command officer."

"Then you must apply yourself to your work, Mr Kirk."

Kirk grimaced. "Oh yeah. What've I been doing these past weeks! You're a tough taskmaster, Mr Spock, but the best tutor in the Academy. I'm the envy of many, you know."

"Humans are illogical, Mr Kirk."

"We sure are." Kirk rose to his feet. "I wonder if they'll ever catch whoever attacked us?"

"Starfleet Security and Intelligence investigators are renowned for their efficiency. However they appear to have overlooked the trace signal which I isolated immediately after the attack."

Kirk was puzzled. "What trace signal?"

"The one which might identify the location of the person who initiated the procedure."

"What!" Kirk exclaimed. "You mean you have some record of the bastards who did this? Have you spoken to anyone else about it?"

"I attempted to report my findings."

"But why was nothing done?"

"The Academy officer who debriefed me stated that the investigation was under the jurisdiction of Starfleet Intelligence and not the concern of a cadet."

Kirk scratched at his head. This Vulcan, for all his brilliance, had not persisted. Why? Remember that Spock comes from a different culture. He's taken the word of an officer literally. Maybe the person resented a young cadet who was so obviously intelligent. Maybe he was prejudiced. Kirk made up his mind. "I think you ought to tell someone in authority. C'mon, LLan Warr will know what to do."

Five minutes after Spock had explained the situation to him the Deltan was in touch with Admiral Simonson. Within thirty minutes, Kirk found himself, Spock, LLan Warr and Simonson in Base Security Chief Scalia's office. She was a statuesque woman in her forties, known for her toughness. She intimidated Kirk and he tried to keep a low profile as she questioned Spock.

Simonson and LLan Warr were watching closely and Kirk was glad they were here knowing that they both would protect Spock from any heavy-handed interrogation. The Vulcan's aura of serenity as he answered her reached out to Kirk and soothed him.

Scalia was staring at Spock. "I can't believe you didn't come to us sooner with this, Cadet," she said in an icy tone.

"I informed Commodore Demarco at the briefing, sir. It is recorded in my official log entry." Spock raised an eyebrow. "The announcement this morning stating that no traces had been found of the perpetrators caused me to question his belief that it was not my concern."

"Why did you tell Cadet Kirk and not someone in Security?" she demanded.

"I ask forgiveness, sir. I did not know what was required. I am unfamiliar with criminal investigation. I merely wished Cadet Kirk's opinion on why the trace signal was overlooked."

LLan Warr leaned forward. "Commander, Cadet Spock has been here for only a few months. You cannot expect him to behave in a human fashion. His people have the greatest respect for their elders and would not presume to question an authority figure on such a matter. If your people have missed this signal, which Cadet Spock flagged for further attention, then I suggest you not waste any more time and assign your experts onto it now."

"I concur," Simonson said. He stood up and the two cadets rose to their feet. "Cadets you are dismissed."

Scalia indicated the door. "Please report to the Starbase Computer Centre. Your assistance might be needed."

Once the two cadets, escorted by a security officer, had departed, Scalia informed her investigators in the computer centre of their imminent arrival then leaned back on her chair and stared up at Simonson and LLan Warr. "It was just the same when I was at the Academy, you know. It's improved for women now but then too many of the men felt threatened by a clever female. Now because there are more aliens here it's their turn."

Simonson's face was grim. "We know it, Chief, and we're trying. I'll speak to Demarco. He was out of order. Spock's finding should have been taken seriously. We're losing too many non-humans and we can't afford to lose our young Vulcan. I'll be calling a full staff meeting. We're in an united federation, or so we tell ourselves. This bigotry, if it was that, must be rooted out."

The Deltan was pleased with Simonson's words. "I don't know if the commodore was acting out of xenophobia or just plain jealousy," he said. "But bigotry is not solely a human failing. Many species subscribe to it. Only through co-operation and education will we be able to erase it ."

"Meanwhile, you don't object if we borrow the boy?" Scalia asked.

"You've already borrowed both youngsters even though I'm sure you have computer experts aplenty on this base," Simonson said.

"Not like Cadet Spock," Scalia said.

"Why have you included Kirk?" LLan Warr wondered.

The woman shrugged. "They appear to be a team. Am I wrong?"

The Deltan laughed. "No, Chief. I do not believe you are."

***

Starbase Seven Computer Centre was like a dream come true for Spock. He studied the room and a sense of exhilaration, quickly suppressed, was his immediate reaction. It was filled with personnel but there were obvious security restrictions imposed with guards posted at every exit.

"It's like locking the barn door after the horses have escaped," Kirk murmured.

Spock looked at him. "I beg your pardon?"

Kirk grinned. "A Terran expression. It means... "

"Cadets," a man in security section uniform called. "Are you the 'experts' the Chief sent us?"

Their escort answered, "Commander Patel, these are Cadets Spock and Kirk. You know that."

The obvious ill feeling between the two men caused Spock discomfort. He clasped his hands behind his back and retreated behind his shields. He must maintain a distance from these humans and their emotions. Beside him, Kirk shifted around as if he felt it too.

"All right, follow me." Patel led Spock and Kirk into a turbo-lift, pressed his palm against a security plate then punched a code into a wall keyboard. The doors closed then the lift descended several levels before coming to a halt.

Spock realised that they were going to a top-secret area accessible to very few. Kirk, however, seemed confused as to why they had left the main chamber but he remained silent. The doors opened to reveal a small corridor. Patel exited the lift, waited as a security monitor retina-scanned him then as a panel slid aside said, "This way."

Spock sensed Kirk's astonishment at these events and taking the lead he followed Patel into a small computer room with Kirk close behind him. There were only four people here, all of them human. The top computer experts of Starbase Seven, Spock surmised, plus one in Enterprise uniform.

Patel pointed to one of the terminals. "All right, show us."

Spock settled down and proceeded to call up the details. Enough time had been wasted due to his unfamiliarity with the correct procedures. It was possible that because of the delay those responsible might escape unpunished. The trace signal was still there and he ordered it enhanced. How had it been missed? Was it incompetence, inexperience, or a deliberate ploy to ignore his findings. "Computer, please check source of flagged signal."

"Working."

"I still don't see any signal, boy," Patel said. "I see the flag, that's all."

"I ask pardon. The vulcanoid visual range is in certain areas different from the human. I will make adjustments. Please stop me when it is understandable."

The configuration changed and Patel's eyes widened. "I see it now. Of course." He turned to the other experts. "Why didn't anyone check this flag before?"

"There was nothing to see," the Enterprise scientist said. "We were trying to deal with the obvious first. We would have checked it eventually."

"Eventually!" Patel shook his head. "Just because it was a cadet who left the flag you assumed that he was wrong."

"You weren't keen on allowing these boys here," the man retaliated.

Patel began to deny it but the computer voice interrupted, "Source location is Starbase Seven, Computer Centre, level five."

"It originated from the main computer room!" Patel exclaimed.

"Computer, analysis of trace signal. On screen," Spock ordered.

"Working. Program deleted."

"Damn," Patel said. "All right, we have to try and reconstruct this program."

The task was begun and there was almost complete quiet in the room. Kirk sat at Spock's side, watching him, and Spock was grateful for the human's silent encouragement. The program was gradually building and from its complexity it was obvious that an expert had created it. Perhaps it will prove impossible to reconstruct it. He struck the negative thought from his mind and continued until his time sense told him that it was now almost morning.

He sat back and blinked away the tiredness from his eyes. "Sir, I believe I have been successful. Permission to investigate program."

Patel came over and looked at the screen. "You've finished, Cadet?"

The other programmers were staring at them in shock. "I've only reconstructed two sub-routines," the Enterprise expert said.

Kirk was hiding a grin. "Sir, Mr Spock can do anything with computers."

"Even program them to destroy this base?" Patel asked.

Spock was horrified. He stood up. "Sir, on my word as a Vulcan I would never jeopardise any lives. We are bred to peace. Violence is abhorrent to us."

Kirk jumped to his feet. "Spock is not under suspicion, is he, sir?" His outrage was clear.

"His name has been mentioned," Patel conceded. "I think it unlikely, myself. I have a great respect for Vulcans. Theirs is the only planet in the Federation with no crime. I once met their ambassador and his entourage. I saw the way they stopped the war in the Fomalhaut system. No, I don't suspect Cadet Spock. If I did he wouldn't be here."

Spock paled at the thought of being under suspicion but a sense of relief filled him at Patel's words. Then there was Kirk who had so swiftly defended him. That gave him the confidence to say, "Sir, I appreciate your faith in me. With your permission may I continue?"

"Very well."

"Sir, it may be dangerous. It is possible the perpetrator has left traps in the eventuality that the program could be reconstructed."

"I understand. Go ahead."

Spock resumed his seat. "Computer, state purposes of program."

"One: This program initiates power drain from primary starbase systems. Two: This program initiates release of anaesthetic gas into Starbase Seven ventilation shafts."

Spock spoke into the dead silence that had fallen in the room. "Conclusion, sir. This program's primary function was to incapacitate starbase defence systems and personnel."

Patel swore to himself and his eyes narrowed. "Continue, Cadet Spock."

"Computer, why did safety programs fail?" Spock asked.

"Safety programs overridden."

"Computer, state location of operator at the time of signal input."

"Security access code required."

Spock looked up at Patel. "Sir, I can go no further." He did not tell the human that with time he could have broken the code.

Patel chewed at his lip. "Strictly speaking I should ask you to leave but under the circumstances I think that's unnecessary."

"You have my word, sir, that I won't reveal anything," Kirk said.

Spock followed Kirk's lead. "On my word as a Vulcan, sir, I am sworn to silence."

Patel entered the security code. Spock sensed Kirk's anticipation and curiosity along with the suppressed excitement in the room and it took all of Spock's control to maintain his own calm.

"Red Alert. Red Alert," the computer responded. "If security access code is not cancelled in fifteen seconds, the self destruct sequence will be initiated."

The sweat stood out on Patel's forehead as he cancelled the code. "Damn. He has set a trap, maybe more than one, for us. It's going to take a lot of work to plough through the system. He's obviously a high-grade computer specialist. Only an A6 or maybe an A5 could circumvent the protocols required for the self-destruct program and we don't have many of them. It won't take long to check them out."

"It's unlikely that the perpetrators of this attack would be that obvious, sir," Kirk said. "Their computer ability will have been kept well hidden." He flushed as everyone looked at him and clearing his throat in embarrassment, he stared down at his feet.

Patel nodded. "I agree, Kirk, but sometimes the obvious is the answer. Never overlook it."

"Yes, sir," Kirk replied.

Becoming aware of the tense atmosphere Patel surveyed the room. "This is top priority but due to the sensitive nature of this inquiry I don't want to call in further outside help just yet. Only those on or above an S9 security clearance can be permitted to work further on this."

As one, Spock and Kirk headed for the door but Patel's voice boomed out. "Cadet Spock."

"Yes, sir." Spock swivelled to face Patel.

"I hear you have an A6 computer classification. Is that true?"

"Affirmative, sir."

"You will remain behind."

"He has no right to keep you here, Spock," Kirk whispered. "You're a cadet."

"What did you say, Kirk?" Patel asked.

"Sir, I said goodbye to Cadet Spock."

Spock raised an eyebrow at the lie but something prevented him from revealing it to Commander Patel. Kirk glanced at him in farewell, and Spock was startled by the sudden sense of isolation he felt as the young human was escorted from the room.

"Computer, Security Commander Patel, code zero zero four five dash nine nine six." Spock heard the human's soft words. "Security clearance S9 requested - effective immediately - for Cadet Spock currently studying at Starfleet Academy."

Spock waited with hands clasped behind his back for the result of the computer's check into his background. As there was so little on his file would it reject the request? He wondered at Kirk's words. Surely he had Admiral Simonson's permission to be here. Yet he began to understand what Kirk had meant. As a student he was entitled to protection from being exploited however in an emergency such as this there was a case for Security enlisting anyone whose specialist skills could be useful. Without Spock's vulcanoid visual range the signal would never have been discovered so quickly. It was only logical that he should be asked to continue with the investigation. When the computer confirmed his S9 clearance, Spock felt a moment of regret for his studies and projects at the Academy. He was also due to tutor Kirk that evening. There was no way of calculating the time needed to identify the perpetrator and it was impossible to know when he would be permitted to return to his normal activities.

***

After not seeing Spock for more than a day, Kirk asked for a meeting with Professors LLan Warr and Solberg. On hearing it was about the Vulcan the two teachers became concerned.

"Sirs. Cadet Spock hasn't been on Academy grounds since we left for the base. I know we were sent to help if we could but I don't think it's right that Security should commandeer a student to do their work. Cadet Spock is... he doesn't understand certain things. He especially doesn't understand humans and I'm concerned he'll be put under too much pressure for someone who is essentially a first year cadet."

LLan Warr came over and stared into his face. He bit his lower lip and hoped no other visible sign of his nervousness was showing but he discounted that wish as illogical. The professor's empathy would have sensed his feelings anyway.

"Under certain circumstances, Security have the right to draft anyone." The Deltan stepped back. "I don't like it either, Cadet Kirk, but Spock's talents are needed."

"Kirk is right," Solberg argued. "The boy hasn't yet taken the Starfleet oath. They should be competent enough to find out who sabotaged the base without him."

"They can draft in civilians if it is a Code One emergency and this is," LLan Warr replied.

"LLan, as his advisor you have the right and duty to enquire about his health and whereabouts. Enlist Simonson and Dubois to aid you. Security can find reasons to hold on to him for as long as they want, you know. They must be told in no uncertain terms that Spock is not to be treated as their property. He must continue his research and his studies."

The Deltan sat down. "You're right." He looked up at Kirk. "Thank you for bringing this to our attention. Be reassured that we will deal with it. I'm glad Spock has found a friend who is so concerned for him."

Kirk could not control a flush from forming on his face. "He's very alone, sir. He may not regard me as a friend but he does tolerate my company."

"You underestimate yourself and the measure of compatibility between you," LLan Warr said. "Leave it with us, Cadet Kirk."

With a lighter heart, Kirk left the room. However that night he lay awake for hours wondering what the Vulcan was involved in and if the terrorists would ever be found. It was strange but he was used to Spock's company in the evenings at the library and missed his presence.

***

Security was tight and as none of the programmers were permitted to leave the area. Spock had been given temporary quarters near the computer room. As they struggled to unravel the web and avoid triggering the traps left by the saboteur another two computer scientists from Starfleet Headquarters joined them. The base was operating on emergency back-up systems. These would only last for a further 3.5 days so it was imperative that the main computer be debugged and back on line as soon as possible.

Spock worked for twenty two hours during the first day and had only logged off when sheer exhaustion had finally overtaken him. Commander Patel had reprimanded him about leaving before he realised the length of time Spock had spent working. He gruffly dismissed Spock who retired to his quarters for much needed meditation then sleep. Six hours later, refreshed and alert, Spock ate a breakfast of fruit and bread and contemplated the day ahead. From a discussion with one of the others he learned that there had been no major breakthroughs; only several near misses when traps had almost been sprung.

He returned to the computer room, studied the work done during his rest break, and immersed himself in the intricacies of the puzzle. Two hours later he found a clue. The being who had prepared this program had been unable to resist leaving his signature; cleverly concealed but recognisable to someone with the ability to see. Fascinating. No Vulcan would leave such a message but other species are not so logical.

He isolated it and requested it be shown on the command monitor. Others looked up at the screen in puzzlement as Spock said, "I have found the signature code of the programmer."

Silence descended on the room as everyone studied the code. Patel strode over to Spock. "How can we ask the computer and be sure it's not another trap?" Spock stared at the screen. "I cannot discern any, sir, but if you will permit I will write a safety program to contain or nullify any problem which might arise."

"Do you need any help?" Patel asked.

"Negative, sir. I would prefer to work alone."

"We'll monitor you, then," Patel said.

Spock stood up and faced the man. To his surprise, he saw Admiral Simonson standing by the door. "Very well, sir. But first I must take a few moments to prepare."

The Academy Commander walked forward and stopped at Patel's side. "I'm here to take my student away but under the circumstances I believe he should stay for a little longer. Cadet Spock, considering your progress here I'm sure Commander Patel will allow you all the time you need."

Patel scratched his head. Spock knew the human was wondering why he was about to trust a cadet with such a task but eventually he nodded. "All right, Mr Spock. The ball's in your court."

"Aye, sir." Spock had not heard that phrase before but its meaning seemed apparent. He sat down, steepled his fingers together and clearing his thoughts he elevated his mind to a higher level of awareness. He could maintain it for a time and refused to consider the debilitating after-effects it would have on him. Satisfied, he flexed his hands then began to key in the safety program. He had used it before and as this system was based on Vulcan technology he would be able to modify it as he went along. It was a complicated process, much of it done in his head, but after seven minutes he had completed it and was ready to challenge the saboteur's expertise.

"Computer, reveal the name behind the signature code:-One-G-L-Five Zero."

"Warning. Destruct sequence one zero zero initiated. Sixty seconds to ignition."

"That's the base destruction sequence!" Patel exclaimed.

"Fifty seconds to ignition," the computer relentlessly continued.

Spock forced himself to tune out the wave of fear, which spread through his colleagues and spoke in a calm voice. "Computer, this is Spock. Implement Program SZ1."

The computer stuttered in mid count. "Forty.. Fort.. Spock recognised. Program SZ1 implemented. Countdown in hold pattern. Awaiting instructions."

It was working so far. Spock took a deep breath. "This is Spock. Implement Program SZ2."

"Spock recognised. Program SZ2 implemented. Awaiting order to abort countdown."

"Computer, this is Spock. Implement Program SZ3."

"Spock recognised. Program SZ3 implemented. Destruct sequence cancelled."

"Computer, this is Spock. Implement Program SZ4."

There was a moment of delay and Spock quelled his rising fear that it had not worked. Tell me the name, he demanded.

"Spock recognised. Signature Code. Identity. Computer Technician Zendel Yao."

There was a gasp from the other personnel but Spock ignored it and concentrated on suppressing his own elation. "Whereabouts of Technician Zendel Yao."

"Unknown."

"He was injured in the attack or so we thought," Patel said. "He requested leave."

People were crowded round his chair and he was finding it very difficult to shut out their thoughts. The intensity of their emotions was physically painful to him. Spock fought to clear his head and sat in silence as orders were issued. Everyone seemed to be talking at once but amid the chaos he heard his name being called and looked up to see Admiral Simonson leaning over him. "Sir," he began and tried to stand.

"Relax, Mr Spock. Well done," Simonson said. "I'll see you get a commendation for this."

Spock only wanted to leave for the solitude of his room. "Sir, may I be dismissed?"

Simonson's eyes were sympathetic. "I'll get you out of here as soon as possible."

"Damn aliens," one voice could be heard above the noise. "We should have known it'd be one of them." Spock paled and looked in the direction of the speaker, a human female who had been part of the computer team. The species of the technician had not even occurred to him. He stood up, stopped himself from swaying with exhaustion, and faced her. On seeing him she swallowed and stuttered, "I d.. didn't meanŽ "

Admiral Simonson stepped in front of Spock. "I remind everyone here that there were many non-human victims of the attack and that Cadet Spock was instrumental in saving not only the ship and the base but also discovered your saboteur. I expect an apology to my student at once."

Spock held his controls together as the woman apologised. He nodded in acceptance and it was with relief that he prepared to leave the room with Admiral Simonson.

Patel's voice stopped him. "Cadet Spock, we owe you a debt of gratitude."

Spock faced him. "It was my honour to serve, sir."

Patel smiled. "Thanks, anyway. We'll take it from here but if we need your help again? "

"Cadet Spock has left his studies for long enough," Simonson interrupted. "I'm sure you'll manage without him now."

"Of course, Admiral," Patel said, a little taken aback.

"Come on, Cadet," Simonson said and led Spock from the room.

As a sudden and alarming numbness spread through his body, Spock struggled to walk. He stumbled into the lift. Just as it began to ascend, he slid to his knees as his body succumbed to the after effects of the heightened state he had forced himself to maintain.

Simonson crouched beside him. "What is it, Spock? Are you ill?"

"Forgive me, sir." Spock found himself weaving in and out of consciousness. The elevated awareness mode was difficult even for a mature Vulcan. Spock had received basic training in it but had never before tried it for so long.

"Forgive you!" Simonson's eyes were full of shock. He pressed the emergency button. "Medics to Computer Centre at once."

The lift doors opened and two security men came in to help. Spock could scarcely restrain a gasp of pain as their thoughts assailed him. He fell onto his side and curled up in a foetal position.

"Get back," Simonson snapped. "Give him breathing space. Lift: holding pattern" Spock felt some material being placed under his head. "Medics are on the way, son. Just relax."

"I am not ill, sir," Spock managed to whisper. "I require rest."

"They'll examine you anyway. Don't worry. Security won't get their hands on you again. I won't have them overwork my cadets."

Spock turned onto his back and stared up with blurred vision at the Admiral. "It was necessary." There was something about this human which inspired confidence. "Your help is most appreciated, sir."

Simonson smiled. "Your parents must be very proud of you, Spock. I know I would be, if you were my son. Relax now. I'll take care of everything."

Spock closed his eyes as those words of kindness recalled memories he wished forgotten.

***

Kirk waited with barely restrained impatience. He had toyed with going to Spock's quarters but hearing rumours about the Vulcan's illness after long hours spent in discovering the saboteur's name, Kirk had instead left a message for Spock to meet him in the library.

That morning, Starfleet Intelligence had announced they were looking for Technician Yao and that his family, friends and associates were being questioned. The Academy and base seethed with speculation and everyone had their own theory as to Yao's motives.

Kirk stared at the computer screen without really seeing it for his thoughts were focussed elsewhere. Surely one technician could not have done so much on his own. There had to be a conspiracy, maybe within Starfleet itself, but for what purpose? The Tau Ceti system was well within Federation territory and Starbase Seven established on one of the original colony worlds. Why would any person or group be crazy enough to attack it?

Kirk now realised that there had been complacency about the level of security and number of personnel. Three junior officers in auxiliary control were far too few. If Spock had not been there! Kirk drew a ragged breath and concentrated on the niggling questions which would not leave him. If the Hirayama had crashed not only the Starbase but also the Academy, so close to it, would have been destroyed. Could the Academy have been the real target? And if so, why? These thoughts whirled around his head until a possible answer became crystal clear. If thousands of students and staff had been wiped out at one blow it would take years, perhaps decades, before Starfleet and the Federation recovered. The other, smaller, Academy campuses would not be able to supply the numbers required and the resulting shortages would be disastrous.

Who would benefit from a weak Starfleet? he wondered. Klingons? Other enemy species? Nonsense. They could never penetrate this far inside Federation space. It has to be from within.

Spock's arrival disturbed his ruminations. The Vulcan was as composed as ever, not appearing like someone who had recently completed such a difficult task. Kirk indicated the other chair. Spock sat down and steepled his fingers together.

"Are you well, Spock?" Kirk asked.

"Affirmative," the Vulcan replied.

"I believe congratulations are in order." Kirk smiled over at him. Obviously Spock did not want to discuss his illness.

"I merely did my duty," the Vulcan replied in a toneless voice.

"That's not what I heard. So what's the latest? Any clues on Yao's whereabouts?"

"I do not know," Spock replied.

"Aren't you the least bit curious?"

"There are other matters which concern me. Do you wish to continue with your previous studies or would you prefer to begin the next stage of Temporal Physics?"

Kirk grimaced. "I guess I ought to start on Temporal but first, Spock, I want you to listen to something." He did not know why he wished to tell the Vulcan about his suspicions but only that he should. As Kirk voiced his concerns, Spock's intense concentration began to disconcert him. Kirk stuttered to a finish, his face pink with embarrassment, as he realised how ridiculous it all sounded. What a fool I am to even think such stupid ideas, he berated himself.

"Fascinating, Mr Kirk." Spock's voice was tinged with curiosity. "Your reasoning is quite logical. If such a conspiracy existed it might be possible to ascertain those who would benefit from a weakened Starfleet."

Kirk's eyes widened. "Then you don't think I'm whistling in the dark?"

"I do not know why you would wish to engage in such a frivolous pursuit, Mr Kirk, nor do I understand its relevance under these circumstances."

"Huh!" Kirk frowned then broke out in laughter as he realised that the Vulcan had taken his words literally. "Oh, it's just an expression. I'm sorry. Then you believe that I might be right?"

"I have confirmed my belief in the possibility of a conspiracy."

"Okay, then. Do you think Security will have thought of it?"

"Unknown. It would be prudent, however, to take your suspicions to the authorities."

"Not until we find some kind of proof, Mr Spock." Kirk turned to the computer terminal. "Okay we can access Federation records from here. Let's see what we'll find."

Kirk tried to call up details on Yao but all data on the technician was under computer lock. It was impossible to proceed without advanced skills but maybe a Vulcan computer expert might be of help. "His public file should have been available. They must have removed it. Spock, we need to get into that file and his private one as well."

"It is locked, Mr Kirk, as you have already discovered."

"Surely you can hack into it, Mr Spock."

Spock's lips drew into a thin line. "Such an action would be both illegal and unethical."

"And what if Yao's organisation tries again? For the greater good, there are times when the rules have to be broken," Kirk argued. "Think about it. You might find something on him no-one else can. Something that'll lead to him and the other terrorists. There could be dozens involved."

Spock hesitated before replying, "Very well. However the library network interfaces with the security web. If I access a classified file from here it would alert them at once."

Kirk was disappointed. "You can't cover your tracks? I thought you had an S9 rating!"

"It was a temporary rating for the duration of the search," Spock replied.

Kirk leaned his chin on his hands. "Then we need a network which they can't monitor. Do any exist?"

Spock's eyes seemed to brighten. "In the physics lab."

Kirk grinned. "And you can get in there, night and day, can't you?"

"Indeed, Mr Kirk. It is an ideal location. Our work is often classified. Professor Solberg insists that none but his own staff and students have access. It might be possible to tap secure files from there without detection."

"What are we waiting for," Kirk said, jumping to his feet, then a thought struck him. "How will you get me into the lab?"

Spock's eyebrow rose. "It is simple. I shall ask Professor Solberg's permission."

"You can't tell him why."

Spock seemed confused. "Then it is impossible, Mr Kirk."

"I guess it's true that Vulcans don't lie," Kirk muttered. "There has to be a way. Can't we tell him we need the privacy of the lab for the work we want to do? That's not a lie."

"It does not seem honest," Spock argued.

"Spock, if he doesn't ask what we're doing then there's no problem." Kirk knew he had to persuade the Vulcan. "Please, Spock. It's the only way and if I'm wrong no harm's done." "Very well," Spock replied. "I shall contact Professor Solberg at once."

Kirk kept his fingers crossed but as he had hoped the physicist granted Spock's request without asking any questions. He remembered to breathe again as Solberg's image faded.

Spock led Kirk to a cubicle in the physics lab. Kirk watched him work and within ten minutes, Yao's file was on the screen. The two cadets studied it, Kirk chewing at his lip with disappointment at the ordinariness of the information. Yet there had to be a clue here. Yao had qualified at T'non University on his home world of Wisgard. He had been employed, as a computer analyst by the Mestro Corporation, a leading aerospace company, for ten years before entering the Academy to take the courses required of those who had gained their degrees elsewhere. After that he had worked at Starbase Seven for four years. He had a high security rating and was a respected, if quiet, person with an unblemished record.

Spock's voice jarred Kirk from his thoughts. "Computer. Search mode: Mestro Corporation records. Access all databases."

"They're a legit company," Kirk said. "Don't they have a contract for some Starfleet vessels?"

"Affirmative. They also manufacture ships for the merchant fleet and private companies."

"The Hirayama?" Kirk asked.

"Affirmative," Spock replied.

"Maybe it's just a coincidence. I don't know. Okay, while we're waiting for the data find out who hired Yao and who worked with him. Can you cross reference with base and Academy personnel? There might be a connection." Kirk had a gut feeling that he was correct on this.

Fifteen seconds later they had a name. Commodore Paul Demarco had sponsored Yao's application to Starfleet. Kirk and Spock looked at one another in sudden understanding. Maybe that was why Demarco had dismissed Spock's warning about the trace signal. Was the commodore involved in the plot right up to his neck?

"This means nothing," Spock said. "It is illogical to suspect Commodore Demarco just because he was Technician Yao's sponsor."

"Then why did he ignore your findings?" Kirk's intuition was on yellow alert. "Mr Kirk, why would Commodore Demarco, a Starfleet officer, wish to destroy the Academy? Would he not also be killed?"

"He could have had his escape planned. He could commandeer a shuttle for his own use with no questions asked. Check the flight records." Kirk bit back his excitement, certain now of what Spock would find.

There it was. Proof or pure coincidence? The shuttlecraft Pegasus was booked for a trip to Auron by the commodore but had never been taken. Perhaps shocked by the turn of events, Demarco had deemed it an inopportune time to leave in case suspicion fell on him.

"Have you got the Mestro file yet?" Kirk asked.

Spock nodded. "Computer display Mestro Corporation file." Kirk studied the details. Mestro was one of the largest private companies in the Federation and for generations one family had owned the majority interest. President of the company was Laura Vansittart, a woman now in her seventies who thirty years earlier had inherited control from her late father, Tom Vansittart. She had a strong face; full of character and from her history it was obvious she was a formidable person.

"List all members of the board of directors," Kirk said. "Cross reference with Yao." He swore under his breath. "Nothing." He chewed at his lower lip in frustration. "There has to be something else. How about her family? Are they involved in the company?"

"Personal details on Laura Vansittart are sparse. In her youth she worked as a journalist before joining her father's business. She has been married twice and three female children have been born of those unions." Spock reported. "They all work for the Mestro Corporation."

"Access Federation marriage and birth records," Kirk said. "It might give us some clues."

Spock frowned. "Mr Kirk, I do not see the reason for persisting in this line of inquiry."

"Please, Spock, I just have a feeling. " Kirk looked at him and smiled a little. "I know you don't understand but will you humour me?"

"Very well," the Vulcan conceded.

A short time later, the information was on the screen. It confirmed that both Laura Vansittart's husbands were dead and that all her children were female. Kirk again studied the woman's face for something about her features was familiar. Then he made the connection. "Don't you think there's a resemblance between her and Commodore Demarco?" he asked. "Call up his file."

Spock's eyebrows rose almost into his hairline. "Many humans resemble each other."

"You mean we all look alike to you?"

Kirk grinned at the Vulcan's discomfiture as Spock denied, "I assure you that was not my meaning, Mr Kirk."

As Demarco's file appeared, Kirk read some of the details aloud. "His father is William Demarco and his mother is Laura Ferrigno. That's it, Spock." Kirk clasped his hands together. "That's the connection. Laura Vansittart is his mother."

Spock was not so easily convinced. "I see no reason to reach that conclusion. Laura is not an unusual name amongst humans, Mr Kirk."

With an effort, Kirk restrained his enthusiasm. "All right, check the Federation journalism banks for Laura Ferrigno and we'll know for sure. I'll bet you it was her pen name."

The file confirmed Laura Ferrigno had given birth to a male child. Spock ordered the computer to run a comparison between her and Laura Vansittart and it verified they were the same person. It was the final proof and Kirk laughed with triumph. "Now let's see what else it says about Demarco." Kirk read the data with intense interest. Paul Demarco had been brought up by his father, William and stepmother on the colony world of Farria. William Demarco worked for a shipping organisation in the planet's main city. It took many long minutes of further digging, confused by false trails and dummy corporations, before Spock discovered it was owned by Mestro. "Fascinating," the Vulcan murmured. "You were correct."

"He's working with her. I don't understand why they'd want to weaken Starfleet but there's too much evidence to ignore." Kirk sat back. "Who can we trust, Spock? Who can we tell?"

"One would assume that Starfleet Intelligence would have discovered these details for themselves." Spock looked at him and there was puzzlement in his eyes.

Kirk shrugged. "Maybe not. If Mestro have infiltrated Starfleet then these 'details' as you call them might have been misplaced or gone unreported. Look at what they were able to do at the base, Spock. We're talking about a highly professional operation. Yao wasn't working alone."

"Indeed." Spock hesitated. "Mr Kirk, I confess that this is beyond my ability to comprehend. There is no crime on Vulcan."

"We have to report it tonight. We have that survival field trip tomorrow."

"Commodore Demarco is Survival Training Co-ordinator," Spock said.

"I know, and he's in an ideal position to get rid of us."

"Get rid of us!" Spock repeated.

Kirk clenched his fists together then released them. Spock was such an innocent. He needed more protection than any human did. "Yes. He might want to take his revenge. Look, Spock, the fact that he disregarded your findings on the trace signal might be enough to put him under suspicion. Patel said that even your name had been mentioned. Remember?"

"I do not understand," Spock said. "Humans are illogical."

Kirk could sense his dismay and even, it seemed to him, a touch of fear. He was about to reassure him when a shadow crossed the cubicle doorway. Kirk jumped up in alarm that turned to relief as Professor Solberg came into view.

"What are you... " Solberg broke off when he saw Kirk's face. "Did I frighten you, boy?"

Sweat stood out on Kirk's forehead and he wiped it away with the back of his hand. "Sir, I'm sorry. I'm kind of edgy."

Solberg's expression changed to one of concern. "Do you want to talk about it?"

Kirk exchanged a brief glance with Spock and understanding he had the Vulcan's consent replied, "Yes, sir. Would you sit down."

"Very well," the professor said in a voice tinged with curiosity.

Solberg listened in amazement then after viewing their evidence sat back and looked at them. Spock's head was lowered but Kirk, now full of confidence, was staring at him in expectation.

"I don't quite know what to say," the professor finally remarked. "If you're right, and it seems only too plausible then you may be in danger. If they've infiltrated Security and Intelligence then we have a real problem." He came to a decision. "Will you trust my judgement?"

Kirk glanced at Spock's bowed head. "Spock," Kirk snapped. "I need your opinion."

The Vulcan looked up. "Professor Solberg is an honourable man."

"I agree. Okay, Professor, who are you going to tell? I need to know."

Solberg gave his head a little shake. He tried to remember that Kirk was only a cadet, a boy of eighteen, and not a Starfleet commander. "I would stake my reputation on Admiral Simonson and Commander Dubois. They are both former pupils of mine. They have contacts in Starfleet Intelligence. They'll know what to do. Do you concur?"

After a shared glance in which some kind of private message seemed to have been exchanged, Kirk and Spock agreed to his proposal. Solberg sent an ambiguous but urgent message to both officers and they responded by joining them in the lab within thirty minutes. They studied the evidence then Simonson, his face pale with shock, said, "Intelligence were snooping around the Academy files. I gave them permission to investigate several individuals whom they suspected of involvement in the attack."

"Was Mr Spock one of those individuals, sir?" Kirk asked.

Simonson nodded. "I told them they were on the wrong track. After a while they agreed and concentrated on the others."

"Was Demarco ever under suspicion?" Dubois asked.

"I don't know. Damn." He stood up and paced the floor. "This can't go on. It's too dangerous for these cadets. Commander Higuchi, the Chief of Starfleet Intelligence is on the Base. I'm going to call him over for a drink. Cadet Spock, I want copies of all your evidence. Both of you boys stay here. I'll bring him here. Helene, you stay also and protect them."

Solberg made sure the lab was secure as the four of them waited for Simonson's return. It was almost 19:00 before the Admiral and his companion arrived.

***

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