The T'Varon Chronicles.

(An alternate universe series)

PArt three -A Haze of Conflict (section 1)

Message

The chirp of the intercom woke me up. I forced myself to alertness, pressed the audio response and said, "Kirk here." as I shook off the last vestiges of sleep.

"Lt Salen, sir," a voice said. "There is a private communiqué from earth. Shall I transfer it to your quarters?"

I wondered who would have gone to the expense of sending a private message to this part of the galaxy, then it hit me. A shiver of fear ran down my spine as the many possibilities crowded in. I stopped them in mid track. It didn't necessarily mean bad news...

"Yes, thank you," I responded.

I placed a tape into the console, then showered and dressed as the message was transmitted. I was delaying the moment of listening, almost afraid to hear its contents. At last, I made my way over and lifted the tiny disk out. I looked at it, and my apprehension could not be ignored. I churned inside. What if someone - a member of the family - had died. News that I could not bear to hear.

The door chime sounded and I was glad to turn my attention away from the message. I placed the disk on my desk. "Enter," I said. Spock, a welcome visitor, came in. "Good morning," I greeted him with a warm smile.

"Good morning, Jim." He hesitated then asked, "Are you well?"

He had noticed, even sensed my mood. "Fine," I reassured him. "I was just about to play this message from Earth."

He became very reserved. "You will require privacy. If you will excuse me,"

"No, please stay." His presence would help me deal with whatever grim news awaited. I relied on him and he never failed to support me.

"If you wish it," he replied, somewhat puzzled, "but surely this message is for you alone."

I didn't want him to consider me weak nor could I bear for him to think less of me because of my all too human fears and worries. Yet, I wanted him to be there as I played the message. Surely, he would understand; he could read me so well now. "Please, stay. I would be grateful for you company." I said.

He gave a slight nod of assent then stood aside, as I sat at my desk, picked up the disk and placed it in the slot. Taking a deep breath, I activated the viewer. The logo of Starfleet's private channel appeared, then cleared to show the words - For the attention of Lt. Commander James T Kirk. USS T'Varon. The letters then dissolved and were replaced by the familiar figures of my family. My heart skipped a beat as I saw them smile, greet me, and wish me Happy Birthday. I swallowed as happiness then an aching gut-wrenching home-sickness, for these people I had left behind, fought inside me for supremacy. I had forgotten all about my birthday. It had come and gone during the time, Spock and I had been stranded on the ice-planet. There had been more important things to think about then, like our survival.

My mother and brother had not forgotten, and their message had finally caught up with me. Tears threatened to spill from my eyes as the sight of their beloved faces brought home to me just how much I missed them. My mother blew me a kiss and as her image faded, I lowered my head onto my hands. I felt alone and bereft, cut off from the life I had known, the family I adored, the only human here on an all-Vulcan ship.

Lost in my misery I only faintly, heard the hiss of the door opening and closing. I jumped to my feet, dashed the wetness from my eyes with the back of my hand, and berated myself. What a fool, I was! My emotions had driven Spock away. My bond-brother, who had given me so much, had been exposed to the full force of my raw emotions.

Full of self recrimination, I slumped onto my chair. How could I repay him by forgetting his lessons in self-restraint? Why had I allowed my feelings to overcome me? How could I face Spock again? I couldn't blame him if he didn't come near me again. Why should he after I had broadcast so unrestrainedly? Why had I asked him to stay? What a coward I was? I should have viewed the message on my own.

He had been teaching me - with limited success - Vulcan techniques of emotional control. On this ship of telepaths, it was essential that I learn them. Also, it was imperative to Spock's peace of mind, for he was connected to me too deeply through this mysterious bond we shared. Spock's mixed heritage had given him certain insecurities, and I had to approach him carefully some times. He had learned though, that the bond of t'hy'la was highly honoured - strange as that was amongst a people who denied feelings - and had accepted me despite my many failings. He had shown me the generous person behind the Vulcan mask, and had given me a friendship that was so complete, so satisfying, that all others in my life paled by comparison.

I checked the time. There were three hours until my shift, three long hours to contemplate my irresponsible behaviour and regain my composure for I didn't want to bring further shame on Spock in front of the bridge crew. With growing despondency, I wandered the cabin for a time, then forcing myself to settle down cross-legged on a cushion, I tried to relax and meditate.

It was hard, maybe impossible. My family's well-meaning and loving message had turned sour. I strained for calm but it was always just out of reach. I faced my failure and, feeling alone and utterly miserable, I covered my face with my hands and wept.

A warmth on my shoulder disturbed my unhappy, little world. Looking up, I was startled to find Spock leaning over me. I had been so caught up in my grief that his return had gone unnoticed. As he knelt facing me, I found some control - but it was shaky.

"Jim," he began.

I saw his pain and I was filled with remorse. "Spock, please forgive me. I did not mean to hurt you. The last thing I wanted to do was to subject you to anything like that. I tried... I tried so hard to learn control of my emotions. I know how they distress you. I promise..."

"Jim, it is all right," he interrupted. "Do not apologise."

I couldn't understand. He had left because he had been unable to stomach my lack of control. My feelings had penetrated his telepathic shields and had caused intolerable pain.

"It is I who should apologise," he continued. "I know the value that humans place on birthdays. I have been remiss. I should have acknowledged it."

Absurdly, my eyes filled again. Where were all these tears coming from? What was wrong with me? I was acting like a five-year old.

He held out his hand. "I have brought you a gift."

I stared at him in wonder. There was no end to my cool, cerebral friend's understanding and generosity. I had been completely mistaken in my assumption about his departure. Sure, my distress had affected him, but he had not recoiled from it. He had actually blamed himself for not acknowledging a human custom and had gone to rectify it.

Confused, delighted, and intrigued, I looked at the small box sitting on the palm of his hand. I sniffed, cleared my throat and attempted to speak. I could only manage a croak. "Spock..."

"Please accept this gift as a token of my esteem," he said, gently, as if to a child. He placed the box onto my hand, then sat back on his heels.

Deep down, I'm still a child, I love getting presents. My heart pounded with excitement as I opened the container. My anticipation was at fever pitch. What could he have brought me? He had been away for such a short time.

Astonishment was my first reaction, on seeing the nugget of meronite crystal nestling in the dark, velvety lining of the box; it was soon replaced by awe. Meronite was the rarest substance in the galaxy. Battles had been fought over possession of even a small crystal like the one that sparkled before my eyes.

I stumbled over my words. "Spock...I c... cannot... It is w...worth..."

This piece would be valued at millions of credits, for each crystal was unique and could not be duplicated.

"Jim," he said, in a voice sharp with urgency.

I forced my gaze away from the crystal and stared at him in confusion. Why had he given me something of such rarity and value? Where had he obtained it? What did it mean to him?

"Jim," he repeated, his eyes holding mine in that compulsive way of his. "This crystal is my most valued possession. I wish you to have it."

It was even more difficult to keep my emotion in check. "No, I cannot accept this. It is worth a king's ransom." Usage of the Terran term was the only way to explain myself. There was no equivalent Vulcan phrase known to me.

"Compared to your friendship, its value is of no consequence. Please accept it." There was a slight tremor in his voice that spoke volumes to me.

His face was lined with worry. He feared that I might refuse his gift. I realised then that if I didn't accept it would wound him. Yet - how could I accept such an item? If I had not known the depth of his regard before, it was plain now. But for him to give me such a gift...

"I beg thee to accept it, my t'hy'la. It would please me if you did," he pleaded.

It was impossible to resist that. I nodded, unable to speak as my throat was so constricted. He relaxed, visibly, at my assent and once more it was brought home to me how much our friendship meant to him. It made me feel humble yet very, very proud.

I lifted the crystal from the box and held it on my palm. It glittered and sent streaks of multi-coloured light cascading along my hand and wrist, then almost inaudibly, it began to hum. I had heard of this phenomenon. Meronite, the crystal that sang to the one who possessed it, attuning itself to the pleasure centres of the brain and bringing melodies that satisfied the individual's deepest dreams and desires. It sang to me now of starship command. Spock was at my side and we explored the galaxy, meeting new life-forms. It was my dearest wish, my dream, my goal. My blood tingled and I closed my eyes. I was being lifted onto an elevated plane of existence where everything centred about me and my desires. I was filled, body and soul, with intoxicating delight.

After a time, the sensations faded, the crystal became silent, and I opened my eyes to meet Spock's gaze. I still couldn't find my voice and I simply replaced the meronite in its container, closed the lid, and placed it on the shelf beside me. Now, I understood why these crystals were so valuable. In the wrong hands they could be very dangerous. One could easily get addicted to their effect. They give a high that no drug could match. Yet, the crystal's effect on me - although exquisite - was nothing compared to the joy and satisfaction of the mind-melds shared with Spock. As I realised that, it was easier to accept the meronite, for I knew now which was the greater gift.

"I thank thee," I replied at last, using Vulcan formal speech, as he had, for it was the only way to handle such an intense moment. "You have honoured me."

He inclined his head. "Your friendship is the greater honour."

His courtesy never failed to dismay and delight me. "I do not know how to thank thee enough," I said, wanting him to know how much his gesture meant to me.

"Thy acceptance is thanks enough." I was unable to face the intensity of his eyes, suddenly shy of the depth of our friendship. I had never known such a relationship before and with complete certainty, knew I never would again with any other. The bond between us was special, a unique brotherhood of spirit and soul that was rich and complex, trying but eminently fulfilling.

"You are troubled," he said.

Damn! The trying part was that I could hide very little from him. He was able to sense my thoughts and feelings only too well. "We call it mixed emotions," I explained. "Being happy but sad at the same time."

"You are most illogical," he commented,

I chuckled. "Yes, I know. I am sorry." I grew serious as I tried to explain. "I do not deserve such a valuable gift. I am unworthy of it. Spock, I am unable to adequately express my thanks to you." My curiosity was piqued though. "Where did you get it?"

There was a flash of anger in his eyes. "You underestimate yourself, Jim. You are he who saved my life from a wrecked shuttle, from hypothermia, from Klingon attack. You helped me recover from deep shock and injuries, infusing me with your will, your strength, and your determination. You found me deep in a healing trance and gave me your strength. I was too weak to break free but you led me out of it" He held my attention with hypnotic intensity. "Do not belittle yourself. Not to me, the one who has known your thoughts." He gripped my shoulders hard and shook me, his strong fingers digging into me and sending painful jolts to my chest. "Do not doubt yourself so." As he caught my pain, he released me. "Forgive me," he murmured and drew back.

I sighed and, reassuring him with a light touch to the arm, that I was all right, said, "I concede to your better judgement." His words had come straight from the heart. Who was I to dispute them?

His face lightened at my acceptance. "Come, I will show you how I obtained the meronite."

I was delighted. He was going to take me into a meld and show me what had happened. I needed no prompting, and easily opened myself into the link. Soon, I was caught up in his memories.

The Rynami did not live by the strict moral codes of other known telepathic species. For centuries, they had been abusing the other races who lived in their star system. Two years ago, the T'Varon had entered the Rynami domain on a first contact mission. Vulcans were normally sent on such delicate assignment, due to their unswerving dedication to peace and non-violence, but even the diplomatic Vulcans were forced to take drastic action when forced into telepathic battle. It was the worst type of war for a pacifist and private people.

After the T'Varon had suffered many casualties, Spock had devised a method that enabled the remaining crew to merge into one large, unified mind. I could only catch a glimpse of what that had cost the Vulcans but they had willingly accepted it as the only way to overcome the evil oppression and malicious intent of the Rynami. Its considerable power had subdued, and ultimately defeated the enemy force. Spock spared me the worst of the horrific mind-battles but his memories of the crew's condition after the final victory were graphic. Everyone was at the end of his or her endurance and it had taken many days for them to recover. Spock, however, had overcome the effects more easily. Perhaps his human heritage had influenced that.

The Rynami, except for some who escaped by space-craft, were broken. Their telepathic ability had been burned out and their power to dominate others ended. The leaders of one of the oppressed peoples, the Aveen who were a feline species of great beauty and intelligence, had been jubilant and grateful. They had given Spock the crystal as a token of appreciation and thanks for releasing them from slavery.

I slipped out of the meld, even more deeply touched by his desire to give me the meronite, and more impressed than ever by his deductive reasoning and strength of will. "What would the Aveen say if they knew that the gift given in gratitude had been passed to another?" I asked, unsure again of my right to accept it.

"They would approve. They have many of your traits. They are a fine, upstanding people with high moral values, bravery and love of life."

I caught my breath, swallowed hard and humbly accepted his compliment. Once more, his generosity overwhelmed me, and his support and regard for me were a wonder and a delight. I knew how much I needed to lean on him but he needed me also. This mysterious bond we shared had happened as if fated, but there were also some human elements included in it. What I felt for Spock, compared with even surpassed the love I had for my brother, Sam. That made me feel a little guilty for I adored Sam.

Spock returned my feelings, although he would never admit it, for nothing could be hidden in the meld. I could sense his shy brother-love and warmth towards me when first we had shared thoughts. I was secure and relaxed with him and liked nothing better than to be in his company whether we were working, talking, playing chess or even involved in the exhausting exercise sessions in the gymnasium. He had been teaching me Vulcan self-defence techniques that were just about impossible to learn. I wanted to teach him wrestling but he had balked at the rough physical contact of the sport. Best of all though were the times we spent sharing thoughts. It was the ultimate experience and one that we had participated in often, mostly though to teach me various mental disciplines designed to help me cope in many a situation. Occasionally we had melded purely to exchange memories, like just now and, even though it was a lowering of personal barriers that was difficult for Spock, he permitted it. I occasionally hankered after the complete openness we had shared on that ice-world but knew it was too much to expect.

"Have I caused you distress?" he asked, in a worried tone.

I grinned at him. "You! No, my friend, no distress. Confusion perhaps, delight at receiving this beautiful gift, awe at your solution to the Rynami threat." I clasped my hands together and tried to maintain some control. "Happiness in your company but sorrow at being so far away from my family.

"Your emotions are complex and confusing," he stated, but there was a light smile on his face and I knew he teased me.

I was embarrassed by his scrutiny, his words, and the openness now between us. I shouldn't have been. It was totally illogical. "I would not deny it," I conceded. What would my friends think of me now. Jim Kirk, brash, charismatic young officer with humility and awe in his heart because of a Vulcan's friendship for him.

I reached out my hand to simply reassure him, and myself, that I was fine. After a moment, he clasped it in his. I laughed softly and pumped his hand. He would nor deny me the occasional touch now; not after what he had been through. We had come out of our ordeal, closer than ever, although for a time I had feared he would hate me. Thank goodness, my worries had been unfounded. Spock had accepted our friendship and it had become more - a spiritual bonding of brotherhood straight out of Vulcan legend.

He raised his brow. "Jim, you confuse me. Are all humans as illogical as you?"

I decided to take that as an insult. I dived for him, knocked him over and sat on top of him. I held his arms above his head and grinned. No doubt it was his surprise at my actions that had given me the edge, otherwise it was unlikely I could have overpowered him. Being honest with myself, though, I realised that he hadn't resisted and lay there with a frown on his face. Vulcans fought only when in training, or in the rare instance when combat was unavoidable.

"Jim, what are you doing?" he questioned.

"Demonstrating human illogic," I replied. "We call it, paying someone back for an insult."

His expression became serious. I wondered what was wrong and how I had offended him.

"I ask thy pardon," he said. "Insult was not intended. I was unaware that I had offended thee."

I released him at once. "Spock, I was not serious." I scratched my head. This was becoming too complicated especially as I hadn't eaten yet, this morning. I was becoming somewhat light-headed. "It was just a little..." There was no similar word in the Vulcan language so I used English. "Fun."

"Fun?" he asked.

Why had I ever started this? "It is like a mock fight. Humans do that sometimes not to hurt one another but as a test of strength, just to play..." It sounded so stupid. How could he understand that fighting need not be serious. Vulcans didn't use combat unless severely provoked. "It is like the time you lifted me, and held me upside down. That was 'fun' - I think."

Both his eyebrows rose. "Indeed." There was a look of long-suffering in his face, and a twinkle in his eye. "Your concept of enjoyment is odd, Jim. I did sense your pleasure at that time but assumed that my judgement was incorrect."

"Why did you do it, Spock?" I asked, wondering if he would admit to any feelings of his own.

"I am unsure," he replied.

"You enjoyed it," I persisted.

"Enjoyment is alien to me. I do not understand it. It is purely a human..."

He wasn't going to get away with that. "Oh, no! You took great pains to show how easily you could dangle me upside down. You were almost...smiling."

His innocent look would have convinced anyone but me. I settled back on the cushion and watched as he leaned up on his elbows. Once again, he had helped me through a difficult patch by giving me unconditional support. I relaxed and the upsets of the past hour drifted away.

"You like to use your superior strength on me," I teased him.

He was startled, and that amused me. "Jim, I assure you that I would not take advantage of one who is physically weaker than myself."

He was falling into the trap. "Of course you do. That is why you enjoyed lifting me and the reason you will not learn wrestling from me. There I can use every dirty trick I can to bring you down."

"It is not an honourable way to fight," he protested.

"If you are fighting for your life, honour does not come into the equation. Spock, come on. Let me try and teach you how to wrestle. You might even enjoy it." I could see that he was weakening. With a laugh, I stood up, hauled him to his feet and added, "It will boost my morale if I can get a fall."

"A fall?" he asked.

I was going to enjoy this. In my favour was experience and surprise - hopefully they would give me the edge. For a moment I felt sorry for my poor, innocent, friend, then I tossed such unnecessary nobility aside. I was going to relish throwing him all over the gymnasium.

Commander

I turned up for duty, just a little bruised. I had indeed, held the advantage for a time - much to Spock's chagrin. Then, as he cottoned on to my methods and effectively countered them with his own, there had been definite signs of Vulcan enjoyment. He had been surprised by my outburst of laughter, and had succumbed to a fresh attack, stunned by tactics that were dishonourable by his standards. He had recovered quickly and began to give as good as he was getting; never failing though to keep his superior strength leashed.

My duty time passed pleasantly, for I was relaxed in mind and body. Near the end of my shift, all that changed. We encountered a small ship of unknown design. It didn't respond to our request for identification and although it hadn't taken any hostile action, Captain T'Zen called a yellow alert. Spock's evaluation was almost instantaneous. As I listened to him, I watched my sensors but they showed no activity from the vessel.

There was a sudden strange silence. The hairs rose on the back of neck as I realised there was something wrong, here on the bridge. There were no sounds of distress but I knew. I looked sideways to see Selek clawing at the navigation console, his face contorting in agony. Horrified, I swivelled around to see everyone on the bridge under some violent and unseen attack; everyone but me... The captain slumped over the arm of her chair, Spock sat rigid, the stiff set of his shoulders testifying to his pain. I couldn't understand. What was happening to my ship-mates?

"Captain, what is happening?" I asked.

Her hands lifted very slowly; the agony she endured showing in every line of her body. My heart thudded in fear. For a Vulcan to show pain - beings who could control pain...

"Spock," I cried. "Spock." He didn't respond and fear made me bold. "Spock, answer me. Report," I demanded in command tone.

With agonising slowness, he turned towards me, his hand reaching out in my direction. I forced the lump in my throat away. I am no telepath, but even I could sense the torment of over four hundred Vulcans. Their emanations were like a haze in the air. They struggled against for control but it was only too obvious that they were losing. Yet, Spock had responded to my call; I had to help. I couldn't leave helm as someone had to pilot the ship but what else could I do. I didn't even know who or what was attacking the crew.

"Captain, I am not affected," I tried again. "How can I help you?"

Her movements were painfully slow but she managed to meet my eyes, her lips parted but no words sounded. I couldn't understand what she was trying to impart to me. Her eyes rolled back and I had the distinct impression that she was fighting for her life. I had to trust her to survive. I was desperate to help Spock; all my instincts, my feelings told me to go to him, but a greater duty bound me at the moment, my responsibility to the ship.

I forced myself back to the sensor read-outs. My skills are second-rate compared to Spock's and it took me some time to decode and analyse what I was seeing. Fear forced more speed out of me, horror sharpened my wits and tying the science station sensors with mine, I correlated all the data Spock had collected with my own. Soon, I found what Spock had isolated just as the attack had begun: an ultrasonic wave at a far higher frequency that I was able to hear. Now I knew why I had been unaffected. The readings changed to a pattern I had never seen before but was vaguely familiar. I struggled to remember what it was reminiscent of.

Keep calm, I told myself. Remember Spock's lesson. Think. What does this remind you of?

The answer came in a rush. Of course, the similarity to phaser emissions, the build-up of large, amplitude vibrations but not aimed at the ship. At her crew... The computer verified it and a band of fear seemed to clutch at my chest as the implications became clear. The original ultrasonic beam had only been a preliminary to distract and confuse, weaken their shields and leave them vulnerable. Now, a devious, horrifying weapon was being aimed at the Vulcans, one that was intended to match their psi-centres, perhaps able to negate them or even destroy the telepathic ability. No wonder, my ship-mates were helpless under such an assault.

I forced myself to think clearly; there had to be a way to counteract the weapon. Yet, I was the least scientifically qualified on the ship. I needed help - urgently. A starship - even with all stations on automatic - could not be piloted by one person; not for any length of time that is. She needed the constant attention of her crew. It would be impossible for a solitary human to manage. What could I do? There had to be a way.

I called a red alert, depressed the log button and spoke calmly. "This is Lt Commander James T Kirk, recording stardate 3925.1 As the only member of the crew unaffected by alien psi-attack, I am now assuming command. I will take all measures necessary to free my ship-mates. Kirk out."

My next step was to send an intraship message to see if any of the crew was unaffected. I didn't expect an answer and received none, but I'd had to try. I readied the phasers, praying that they were undamaged. It was possible that the Vulcans could have been induced to doing something against their will, like destroying the ship's weaponry.

I opened communications channels and spoke in a firm command tone. "This is the commander of the T'Varon speaking. If you do not immediately cease this unprovoked attack, we will fire upon you."

Silence.

I gave them twenty seconds. "Very well, you have been warned. There will be a delay of ten seconds then we fire. Cease or you will be destroyed. Kirk out." I could sense Spock's gaze on the back of my head. The tickling sensation of his telepathy was almost touching me. I opened my mind to him but we failed to connect. I dismissed it for the moment then counting down the seconds, I fired phasers. It was useless, the small vessel had shields that were resistant. What kind of immense power could withstand our phasers? I switched to photon torpedoes but they were just as ineffective. Damn, who was on that ship and how did they know the psi-frequency of the Vulcan mind?

The answer came in one blazing moment of insight. The Rynami...

Spock had shown me this morning, how some had escaped from this very ship. They were the only telepathic race vicious enough to conceive of such a weapon. They were malevolent and brutal in their treatment of other species. Somehow they had tracked the T'Varon and were out for revenge.

My only recourse now was to remove the ship from their sphere of influence. "Preparing for warp drive," I said aloud. "Warp factor eight."

The ship responded to my control and moments later we 'jumped' into hyperspace. I set a course to the nearest starbase, checked for pursuit, all the while, reporting my actions via the log. Nothing followed as yet, but taking no chances I told the computer to advise me of anything on our tail, set the aft sensors to maximum range then sent a distress call to starbase twenty one. At this distance it would take around twelve hours to reach them. It would take close to a week - if we could maintain warp eight - to arrive there. Our only hope was that they could divert a ship to rescue us; if not our chances of survival were very slim.

When everything was completed, I placed my station on automatic and turned to the crew. The silence on the bridge was unnerving; all that could be heard was the gentle hum of the engines deep below us. I slipped out of my chair and checked Selek. He was completely still, and to my horror I realised that he was dead. Avoiding touching him, I secured his station then turned to T'Zen. She was unconscious but still lived, although her ashen pallor made her seem like a corpse. I cursed the bastards who had done this to my colleagues.

I ran to where Spock lay face down on the floor, so still and quiet. I fell to my knees beside him and turned him around. "Spock," I begged, "Don't die on me." His breathing was shallow but, thank the gods of Vulcan, he was alive. My initial panic subsided; for one nightmarish moment I had believed him to be dead. I cradled him in my arms. "Spock, t'hy'la."

Lack of telepathy had saved me from attack but now it prevented me from reaching him. I could have wept; I did inside. I closed my eyes and tried to reason it out. I had reached him before; it had taken hours but I had done it. I don't know how I achieved it but T'Renna had told me that the touch of one bond-brother had the power to help the other. She hadn't explained how I - a human - had managed it and neither had Spock but he had told me not to doubt myself. He had faith in me. That boosted my resolve. I was going to find a way to him, as I had done before.

Spock, I need your help. T'hy'la, I need you to wake up.

I couldn't tell if my plea reached him. I could only hold him and hope that the special link between us would activate itself. There was no way to assist the others unless I managed to contact Spock and aid him to regain consciousness. Only his vast knowledge and skill could help me combat the problems we faced. I concentrated as deeply as I could, attuned to him in some instinctive way, and recalled the sensation of melding. Slowly I sank into a receptive state.

A sudden intense pain almost caused me to break away but I stuck with it, unbearable as it was, realising that I only received a fraction of the torment he and the others suffered. I clung on. Spock, let me help you.

I bit back a cry of pain as his powerful mind clutched at mine. I had to bear this agony, I must give him anything he needed from me, even if it killed me. My life was his, just as his was mine. It was what we were - t'hy'la.

Jim, you must take command, his thought came to me.

I have done so, I told him, quickly outlining all my actions. Now you must take over.

I cannot. His mind-voice was very shaky. The shock of the attack... I cannot overcome it... I cannot think properly.

You must overcome it, I encouraged. If they follow and attack again...

He shivered deeply inside. I will try but you must guide me. Only you who are unaffected will be able to make proper judgements. Please, help me to my feet. His eyes opened and he looked at me. I knew he was in extreme pain but was keeping the worst of it away from me. We were linked, though, and he was leaning on me. Forgive me for drawing on your strength so much, he said. I will withdraw.

No, you will draw all that you need. Do you hear?

He hadn't the strength to protest and just nodded in acceptance. I smiled at the touch at amusement on his face, helped him to his chair then stood behind, my hands on his shoulders. I tried to steady him. "Can you manage?" I asked.

"Affirmative. See to the others."

Of the bridge crew, three were dead and the rest unconscious but whether in a faint or trance I didn't know. It was then the computer warning sounded. "Alert, Craft following at warp factor nine. Alert."

I scrambled over to the helm. "Magnification three," I ordered. It was there, our enemy following us at warp nine. It would overtake us.

"Spock," I said. "Any suggestions?"

His voice was raw with pain. "As you have surmised, it is the Rynami. They have indeed devised a weapon able to paralyse our psi-centres and eventually destroy them. However, I suspect, from past knowledge, that they will wish to cause the utmost torment first. They are a vicious species."

"How can we stop them?" I asked, as I made my way over to him.

"I am uncertain." He faced me. "I am unable to analyse the readings. I cannot calculate... I cannot correlate..." He stopped speaking and began to shake.

I grabbed him by the shoulders. "Spock, you are half-human and the only crew-member besides myself who is functional. For once, draw on that part of you. You must find a way to negate this weapon. You are the science officer, the only one who can do it." I leaned over him and punched up his earlier sensor readings and my own findings. "Work on this, Mr Spock. Do it now."

"I function on a level at which I can barely work my station. I am only conscious because of you, Jim. If not for our bond, I would be as senseless as the others."

I was not willing to accept his defeatism, and had to make him see that. "As you are incapacitated, Mr Spock, I will remain in command. I order you to determine some method of defeating the Rynami. I will not accept any less."

His gaze wavered under my demands. "Very well. I shall try."

He went back to his station and I breathed my relief. It was a beginning, but realistically could a defence be found without any of the others to help? I returned to the helm and watched - on screen- the Rynami gain on us. There was no way to outrun them and the outlook seemed hopeless. That being the case, I still tried to remain optimistic.

"How long before they catch up with us, Mr Spock?"

Once, his answer would have been instantaneous; now it took many long seconds. I had it before he did, but didn't tell him that.

"Twenty-one solar minutes, sir," he replied.

I found a grin somewhere at his formality. "At what range can they use weapons?" I questioned, as if I was the captain and he the science officer.

"Unknown, sir."

I opened intraship communications again. "All hands, this is Lt Commander Kirk in temporary command. If there is anyone capable of responding, report to me. We are being followed by a Rynami vessel. There will be another attack in twenty minutes. Mr Spock is attempting to find a defence. Any valid suggestions are to be relayed to him immediately. Kirk out."

I looked at Spock; if anyone had heard me then perhaps they had been given some encouragement. I noticed, to my surprise, that the captain was watching me. I rushed over to her chair. She was still slumped, seemed paralysed, but she was trying to communicate. I didn't dare touch her, so I leaned over and asked. "Captain, what are your orders?"

"Continue...." she whispered.

"Is there anything else..."

Her face contorted in agony. "My ship..." she moaned then fell forward. I caught her and placed her back on the chair. She still breathed but she was unconscious now. I remembered Selek and wondered if she had felt his death? Words from one of my study books danced before my eyes, The breaking of a marriage bond, due to the death of one, is often fatal to the surviving partner. I was horrified by that particular ramification.

I forced myself to remain calm and glanced round the bridge. Some of the crew were beginning to stir. "Lt T'Pel, check all departments. I want to know how many survivors there are." With rigid control, the communications officer very slowly straightened and acknowledged my order with a slight nod. My heart went out to her in her bravery. I went to the engineering console. "Lt T'Lar, check engine status. I want warp nine - if possible." The engineer clung to her station, obviously in severe distress, but she tried to respond to my command. Such courage and will; my admiration for these two young women increased.

"Mr Spock, report," I said.

"I regret to inform you that I cannot find a way to combat the Rynami weapon," he stated.

"Keep trying," I encouraged. "There must be an answer."

I studied helm sensors but could find nothing. Once again I wished my scientific abilities were better. I had passed the mandatory courses but nothing more; my aptitude was in command. Well, I had to do what I was best suited for. I coaxed, demanded, ordered the compliance of those crew who were even marginally conscious. They responded - slowly - for they were still in shock and working at minimum levels. In their vulnerable condition, a second assault would kill them.

At least Spock had improved and was maybe about half his usual best. His next words chilled me. "They are launching another attack. It will reach us in approximately two minutes."

"Alert. All hands prepare for attack, " I ordered. I felt so helpless. What could I do now? "Hailing frequencies, Lt T'Pel," I said. It was frustrating to wait for her to open the channel. "This is Lt Commander Kirk. If you do not call off your aggressive attack, you will find the might of the United Federation of Planets against you. Do you really want to be annihilated? Let us talk."

Spock swivelled to face me. "Thirty seconds, Commander." His eyes searched mine and there was real affection there, perhaps other emotions as well. Respect, resignation, worry, fear. My heart sank and misery engulfed me. I couldn't help any of them against the coming ordeal. I was useless. Useless.

"No, Jim," his voice penetrated my self-recriminations. "Do not belittle yourself. You have given us respite and sent for help. You have done all that can be done."

It became clear to me then that it was possible to do more. I could help at least one person - Spock. I dived over to him. "Spock, lean on me. Draw on your half-human legacy; maybe it will help protect you and perhaps you will find a way to defeat the enemy."

He turned his back on me; he had understood my meaning only too well. "I shall not cause you pain."

I placed my hands on his shoulders. "I am in command. You will meld with me."

For a moment I thought he would refuse, for he had stiffened with tension. Then it occurred to me that perhaps he had miscalculated the time and the attack had already begun. He touched the audio control. "This is Spock. The mind-meld may offer limited protection. Implement at once."

I was relieved; he had found something. Leaning back against me, he grasped my hands. His telepathic touch sent a shudder along my nerves but I opened myself to it and within seconds we were in the familiarity of the meld.

The psionic frequency alters when in attunement with another, he said. If I had been thinking at full capacity, I would have realised it sooner.

It does not matter, I reassured, for I clearly sensed his unsteadiness. How had he worked after such a nightmarish ordeal? How had any of them? The Vulcans were a magnificent species; there were none to compare with them throughout the galaxy.

It was you with your selfless willingness to protect me that prompted the idea, he told me. If not for that, it would never have occurred. If each of us can link with another then it may be possible to withstand the attack.

It was then that I felt a stab of the pain he was enduring. It had begun, and soon his theory would be tested. My hope of being able to shield him might be nothing more than wishful thinking; how did we know for sure that different psionic frequency was any protection? Because off the link with Spock, I might be leaving myself open to the assault.

You must go deeper, I suggested. Despite the risk to myself, it was essential to try it. We normally used a surface meld level but there had been a few times when he had gone deeper. Perhaps there, at the emotional level, he could survive. He hesitated a little. T'hy'la. I used the most meaningful pronunciation of the word, that meant he was my other self, a part of me. I will do anything to help you. Do not be afraid for me. Let me shield you.

He shuddered as the attack on him intensified. My fear radiated and that seemed to ease the pressure on him. I caught a glimmer of its awesome power and urged Spock again to go deeper into the meld.

The meld is the most intimate of experiences; there is nothing like it amongst humans. I don't know what he did, only that it was different than previous times in the sense that he hid inside my mind for protection. I felt as if my consciousness surrounded him, truly like a shield. At the edge of my perception, at my own rudimentary psi centre, there was pain like a mild headache. This centre, Spock had once told me, was where my intuition sprang from. I, who had once been miserable at not having telepathy now was more than happy at the lack.

I stilled my thoughts on realising that Spock was trying to communicate. Once we defeated them using the power of a group mind, he said. There is too much damage to the crew to repeat that strategy. It is, however, the only way to tackle the weapon. We need other telepaths, other Vulcans. You must send a message to Vulcan; the high priestesses have psionic ability of the highest order. They may be able to overcome this menace.

At this distance, it will take days! I protested.

Two point seven nine days to be precise, he responded.

I was amused. He must be feeling better. It is too long, Spock. We have to find an answer here and soon. If not, the entire crew will die.

I am under your protection, and my capacity for deductive reasoning is returning, he said. With your permission, I shall scan your observations. Perhaps there are factors that you have overlooked or not understood. After that, I shall correlate all data.

I gave consent without hesitation. I didn't know quite what to expect but there was no point in worrying so I took deep breaths and waited. There was a sudden ticklish sensation inside my head then something seemed to turn me inside out. It lasted for what seemed like an endless wrenching time, then it was gone and I was left quivering in involuntary reaction. It was an effort to still myself. I opened my eyes and looked at the screen, to see the alien ship still gained on us. Once within range would they board us? How could I prevent that from happening? I didn't have the authority to use the destruct code.

Jim, in our weakened state there is no way to overcome them.

Damn the bastards. There had to be some way to save us. The captain had given me the responsibility and I was determined to live up to her expectations. Then there was Spock: I would not stand idly by and let him die in agony. I knew, though, that we wouldn't be able to maintain the meld forever. There would come a time when we would be forced to dissolve it and the Rynami would be waiting.

There had to be some way of destroying these evil beings. There had to be. Anger and hatred engulfed me, my dearest wish was to disable...to destroy them. Then the idea came in a sudden flash of inspiration. My dearest wish...the crystal...Spock's encouragement boosted my thinking processes. The crystal attuned itself to the desires of the one who possessed it. Could its power activate more than dreams? Could it be used as a defence? As a weapon?

There was something very close to excitement emanating from my normally, calm Vulcan. It is written in legend that a telepathic species once used meronite as a weapon. It is regarded as a work of fantasy. There is no explanation on how the crystal works.

It is worth trying, Spock. Anything is worth trying. I need to go to my quarters. You must come with me and maintain this contact.

Very well, it is the only way at present. I cannot supply an alternative.

Then we go, now.

He stood, and I felt his gasp of pain as the link weakened. Instinctively, we each locked a hand on the other's wrist then his mind settled back within the safety of mine. It was strange to have to lead him but he didn't balk at following me, despite his seniority and superior Vulcan abilities. At this moment they are a liability, he commented, wryly. I follow you like a pet sehlat.

I chuckled. Sehlats are large, furry bears indigenous to Vulcan. They are fierce creatures that sport six-inch fangs, however they can be tamed and controlled by mind-touch. They are daunting to look at but are intensely loyal to the one they accept as their charge. It was a matter of record that a sehlat would defend a child, or adult, from the dangerous desert predators, even dying itself in the process.

Did you have a sehlat ? I asked, as we entered the turbo-lift.

Indeed. He was my father's pet and very old and fat. Once I began to walk, he attached himself to me as my protector. He gave a young and lonely child much comfort. Spock's thoughts were full of affection as he spoke about the sehlat.

What happened to him? I asked as the lift stopped and we exited.

He died of old age when I was six years old, Spock said, and there was grief now. He was the only one I could turn to when troubled or sad. I would burrow into his fur and cry. When he left, I had no-one. I still remember his warmth.

I caught a glimpse of soft fur, a cuddly, comforting touch, a sweet, doting affection. My throat constricted with Spock's pain. How had he survived for so long on his own? We had reached my quarters and once inside I faced him. You are not alone any more. You can always turn to me for help, comfort, and friendship.

I know, he said, with a small smile on his lips.

I reached over and hugged him for a moment, then reached for the small box on the shelf. As I opened it and placed the small crystal on my palm, the ideal of using it as a weapon seemed ludicrous; totally far-fetched. It looked so beautiful, and innocuous, as it glinted under the light. How am I to use it without telepathy, Spock? I asked. Can you not help me? After all until recently it was yours. It may be possible. Let us return to the bridge.

This time, I noticed some of the crew lying in the corridors. Some touched others so Spock's message had got through. I just hoped that they could protect one another enough to survive. If not, they were condemned to an agonising death. The bridge was quiet. The dead lay as before and, apart from the captain, the living huddled together. I opened a channel to the alien ship and waited. Spock and I remained in physical and mental contact; our only protection. The meronite was in my hand, vibrating gently, awaiting my full attention before it could sing to me. It glittered, hummed a little, and grew warm against my skin.

"Attention, Rynami craft, this is Commander Kirk of the starship T'Varon. If you do not cease your attack, at once, you will be severely punished. If you surrender now, your sentence may be a light one."

Spock arched an eyebrow at me and his surprise registered in my mind. There was no time to explain, for the reply came swiftly. I switched to visual and the screen shimmered then cleared to show a humanoid of exceptional beauty. He was tall and slender; his perfect features and long pale hair that fell to his shoulders reminding me of an ancient painting of angels I had once seen. Apart from the enlarged forehead, he could have passed as human.

"What are you that you can resist the Zelan force?" he demanded.

I gave him my most contemptuous smile. "I am commander of this ship."

"You are not a Vulcan," he stated.

"No, but the science officer is. See how he does not feel the Zelan force," I goaded.

The alien's eyes darkened as he recognised Spock. "He is the one who orchestrated our defeat. He is responsible for the destruction of my people."

"You are correct. Now you will surrender or else you will be destroyed."

He studied me. "What manner of being are you?"

"I am a human."

"Human," he sounded it out. "I have never heard of your species. You are weak and feeble-minded like the Aveen." He sneered and his beautiful features turned ugly. "We shall capture then dissect you. Then we will know how to hurt your species."

Fear filtered through me, not my own but Spock's. I sent him reassurance but his thoughts swirled between us. He can do it, Jim. They are very powerful.

He will have to capture me first, I replied. Aloud, I laughed and said, "You have two solar minutes to surrender. Kirk out." I slammed the connection shut.

Your command style is most unusual, Jim, Spock's bemused thought came to me.

It is called 'bluff'. I will explain one day.

I look forward to learning this 'bluff'.

You will learn it, my friend, I vowed. I promise you. Now what must we do with the meronite.

I have only the legend for reference, he said. It tells little of use, only that the hero used his will to direct the stone's power and destroy his enemy.

It is not much to go on, I conceded. His regret welled through me but I swiftly stopped it. We will find the way, I assured him. The crystal responded to me before.

We waited the two minutes, then I contacted the enemy again. The Rynami leader said four words. "We will destroy you." He cut off communications.

We had no choice now but to implement this untried and unscientific defence. Spock clasped my hand; covering the crystal. Our joined minds slid together in one thought, our dearest wish at this moment, our deepest need to save our crew. The crystal vibrated between us, filling us with energy. Meronite, known throughout the galaxy as the ultimate pleasure, now used in a darker way, one only a telepath could tap.

I must open myself to the attack, Spock said. I must leave your protection for only then will I be able to determine the co-ordinates of the Zelan force. Once that is established, I shall send you a signal. At that moment, you must direct the power of the crystal towards deflecting the power to its source. I do not know if it will be successful, but there is no other way to proceed.

I worried about what Spock would endure, exposed to the weapon's power, but his determination eased my fears a little and I could only comply with his wishes. I sent him my hopes and deep feelings for him and he permitted them access, drawing strength from them.

It is unfortunate that you lack the fur of the sehlat, he teased. That apart, you show all the characteristics of his nature...Protectiveness, loyalty, an affectionate but fierce nature.

To tease me at a time like this! I laughed with delight. Cross me, and see how fierce I can be.

Perhaps, one day, I shall try.

As it attuned itself to both our wills, the crystal's hum grew louder. Its harmonics vibrated with the force of our emotions as we filled our minds with the enemy's destruction. It hungered to return our nightmarish pain to the Rynami; it quivered - barely under control - as it awaited our command. Spock withdrew and I lingered, scarcely breathing, as I listened with all senses alert for his signal. Suddenly, searing pain swept along my nerve ending as the backlash of the attack on him caught me. I almost blacked out but he was back with me and I was able to remain conscious. I gasped as the numbing aftermath of the assault on him spread through my body.

Now, he commanded. He trembled with shock and pain, but such was his courage that he ignored it and concentrated on our task. Together, as one, we directed the crystal's energy towards the alien force. With one, deep, consolidated effort we blocked its effect on the crew, turned it around, and sent it speeding back to its source. I cried out, as I was bathed in unendurable heat. I clung to the stability of Spock's mind. I, who had been protecting him, now needed his help.

Jim, t'hy'la, only a few moments more, his soft mind-voice told me.

I clenched my teeth and tensed every muscle as we sustained the pressure on the Rynami weapon. I didn't know how long I could maintain this; the strain was intolerable. The crystal's vibrations were becoming erratic now, its glow penetrating through our skin to eerily cover hands and arms.

Spock's warning came only a second before disaster. He released my hand, and I dropped the meronite in response to his order. To my amazement, he threw me clear across the bridge and flung himself over me, protecting me from the crystal's explosion with his body. The glare reached me even through my closed lids, stars exploded behind my eyes and I covered my face with my arm in an attempt to shield myself. Unable to hold onto consciousness, any longer, I felt myself slipping into darkness. Spock, I tried to say before I passed out.

Command

Jim. Jim, a familiar voice said.

I roused myself and opened my eyes to find myself leaning against Spock's shoulder. I was drenched in sweat and my tunic clung uncomfortably. I am all right, I responded in mind-speech for I was unable to talk. I shivered. The Rynami...what happened?

Destroyed. Can you stand, Jim? His worry and fear for me was obvious.

I smiled in an attempt to reassure him. If you will assist me.

He supported me under the armpits and hoisted me to my feet. Everything was moving and I closed my eyes, concentrated on his hold and my balance stabilised. "Whew! I exclaimed. "I am all right now."

"Jim, please remain in command. I must determine the condition of ship's personnel."

I sighed. In command of a more or less automated ship! Well, it was better than nothing. I just hoped that there were no major malfunctions while the crew were incapacitated. That nothing had happened before was a miracle.

Spock stepped over to the captain and, as he touched her arm, his face became grim. "I must take her to sickbay."

"What about the others?" I indicated the slumped forms of the bridge crew.

"My first duty is to the captain. She is severely traumatised due to her bond-mate's death. I shall send medics here as soon as possible. Will you manage?"

I nodded. "Go ahead, you do not have to worry about me."

He nodded, scooped T'Zen up in his arms and made his way to the lift. I sat down in the command chair and sent a ship-wide message. "All hands, this is Kirk in temporary command, of the T'Varon. The danger is over. I repeat - the danger is over." I didn't know if anyone was able to take in what I was saying but it was worth trying. "Sickbay - medical alert - Mr Spock is bringing the captain to you. Dr T'Renna, please respond."

There was nothing but silence. Was anyone alive down there? I slammed my fist against the chair. "All stations, report to the bridge. Damage Control - report. Phaser crew, Engineering, Auxiliary Control, report to me."

I went through every department but none responded. I checked the bridge crew and saw that only two still lived. I swallowed my grief and went to helm control where I began the long and tedious check of all ship functions. It was a near-impossible task for one but I didn't let that stop me. It had to be done. Twenty minutes passed before Spock contacted me. His news was hopeful. He had managed to rouse some medical staff and was now about to proceed to other vital personnel.

"Return to the bridge as soon as you can," I said, trying to mask my concern over the dark green bruises of exhaustion showing under his eyes.

"I will, Jim," he replied.

Some time later, the lift doors hissed open. I turned expectantly and, with great pleasure, saw T'Sal and her bond-mate Storon. "Are you both well?" I asked.

"We are functional, "T'Sal said, but she looked pale and shaken.

I made no other comment, for she wouldn't thank me for showing concern. Instead I got down to business. "I am running a class one check. Please take over the science station." She nodded and complied at once. "Lt Storon, please take over the engineering station." The tall security chief acknowledged my order then obeyed. He looked haggard but did not falter.

Grateful for their cool efficiency and their company, I continued with my own work. Amazingly everything was running flawlessly. It was only too obvious that the T'Varon was kept at peak proficiency. Gradually, other officers returned to the bridge, including a medical team who removed the injured and dead, and I parcelled out tasks to them. At least I wasn't doing the check on my own now. Lt Sevel, one of the relief helmsmen, arrived and I released the station to him while I moved to the centre seat and co-ordinated the operation. It was Spock who did the real work by going from deck to deck, checking everyone and everything personally. He had a few hair-raising moments but handled them with cool alacrity. Where did he find the stamina?

As some of the crew began to recover a little from their ordeals, a semblance of normality seemed to return. They did tire easily, though, and I would only permit them to work two hour shifts. I insisted they keep to a rota and rest as much as possible. I was worried about Spock. He had been away from the bridge for over seven hours. A short while ago, I had persuaded him to go off-duty but an emergency had chosen that moment to occur in engineering; a malfunction in the warp drive that needed immediate attention. As most of the engineering staff were either dead or still gravely ill, he had no choice but to deal with it himself.

He had promised that he would rest as soon as possible, and had tried to hide his exhaustion from me. Much as I wanted to, I didn't argue with him but I could see - even sense - that even his stamina was ebbing. His duty came first. As science officer he was responsible for the largest department on the ship; as first officer he was responsible for almost everything else. He had delegated command of the bridge to me so I kept the ship running as smoothly as possible for him. During the long hours, I stayed at my post and didn't allow myself any time off. As I became caught up with my duties, the time sped by, but tiredness was encroaching itself on me, and I didn't know how much longer I could function. With sheer determination and too many cups of coffee, I struggled on; there was no-one fit enough to relieve me.

Twenty four and a half hours after I had sent my message to the starbase, an answer arrived. I listened with growing optimism as the base commander related that she had contacted the starship Surakim to rendezvous with us. I leaned back and sighed; around me the quiet joy was almost palpable. The Surakim, commanded by Captain Stonn, would have medics able to deal with my injured crew.

Thirty minutes later, the Surakim contacted us. Luckily, or perhaps logically, the Vulcans had a reliable back-up in place for emergencies. Every Vulcan base and ship had one person, at least, of the highest telepathic ability. When subspace was too slow, they could send a message from one mind to another in an amazingly short time. This method had been used to reach the Surakim, who were now only a few hours away from us at maximum warp. My esteem for these people rose again. Was there no end to their capabilities? I wondered who had the highest telepathic rating on the T'Varon, the one who would have sent a message if able. It was no surprise to learn from the computer that it was the captain.

The image of a Vulcan, perhaps ten years older than Spock, appeared on the screen. He was the least dignified Vulcan I had ever seen. His manner was brusque and unpleasant as he spoke. "T'Varon, this is Captain Stonn. What is your condition.?"

"Lt Commander James T Kirk in command, sir. There are twenty-seven dead, and two hundred and thirty-six injured. All other crew-members are still in shock but are beginning to recover. We need urgent medical assistance. Please relay co-ordinates for rendezvous."

His eyebrow had arched on seeing me, no doubt surprise at a human in command. He swivelled to give orders to his crew then returned to look at me. "It is done."

"Coming though now, sir," T'Sal said. "If we continue at warp three we shall arrive at rendezvous in two point-seven solar hours."

"Very well, Lieutenant, set course." I stared at the screen again. "Captain, I regret that due to the damage to our warp engines and the lack of engineering staff available, we are unable to improve on warp three."

"Keep us informed," he replied, curtly. "We are proceeding towards you at maximum warp. Is Captain T'Zen alive?"

"She is gravely ill, sir. The Rynami attack was severe and it killed Selek, her bond-mate."

There was no reaction to that news on his arrogant face. "Where is the second officer?"

He had obviously not heard of Selek's demotion, nor of Spock's promotion. I swallowed back my anger at his coldness and didn't allow myself to be intimidated by him. "Commander Spock was promoted to first officer, sir. He is involved in engineering at present. You must understand the nature of the attack we faced. I - a human - was the only one aboard unaffected by telepathic weapons hence, Mr Spock placed me - the only logical choice - in command, No-one else is working to full capacity."

"I see. Keep channels open between our two ships. My officers are at the disposal of their Vulcan kindred. Stonn out."

I let out a breath and glanced at T'Sal who raised one perfectly shaped brow. "My people do not know yours very well," she said. "It is an oversight we must remedy."

I nodded in agreement. "We have much to learn from one another."

"Our philosophy is based on the equality of all. That does include non-Vulcans. It is regrettable that some do not understand that."

She was warning me about Stonn. He was a bigot, as Selek had been, and I knew what kind of difficulties I might have once the Surakim met us. Thrusting the unpleasant thought from my mind, I returned to my duties. A while later, T'Renna reported three more deaths. She also said that the captain was not responding to treatment, and the other seriously injured were still comatose. She hesitated before continuing with the rest of her report. "I have placed Spock under medical orders to rest in his quarters."

Fear gripped me in a tight knot to the chest. "Doctor," I began.

"He shall recover but he requires complete rest now," she informed me at once. "That leaves you in command until further notice. Are you able?"

My relief left me shaken but I couldn't let her see that. "I am all right. Please take great care of him... and the others. Spock suffered great trauma and did not allow himself any respite. He..."

"Commander Kirk," she interrupted. "Do not fear for your t'hy'la. He is strong. However, if not for your ability to protect him during the attack, without the bond between you, none of us would have survived. Truly, your friendship reflects the value of IDIC. The differences combined to create a defence and saved us all."

From her, that was quite an admission, and it registered that for the first time she had called me by my rank. "Thank you," I replied, politely. "I will visit Spock as soon as I can leave the bridge. Please tell him that."

"He sleeps," she replied, "but before he left sickbay he asked me to inform you that he has every confidence in you."

I silently digested that. He had left me in command but he had been there for me to call upon, if necessary. Now he couldn't be disturbed and I was really on my own. There was no-one able to relieve me yet, no-one fit enough to take the responsibility. I banished my exhaustion. I wouldn't let Spock down. He would be proud of me....

The T'Varon Chronicles 3 - A Haze of Conflict (2)

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