Journey
PART I
Chapter I
James
Tarsus IV Star date 2246
James Kirk's eyes slid opened as the sounds of the evacuation alarm echoed down the corridor. Pain shot through his entire body and he groaned. His entire body felt like it was on fire. He looked around carefully. The alarm ceased, it had been turning on and off since he had regained consciousness. Jim breathed a sigh of relief. The corridor was now deserted. Jim struggled to remember how he ended up in that room, but nothing came to mind. The last thing that remembered clearly was stealing food from another colonist to bring back to the small group of children who were hiding from Kodos. He had been chased by officers and had been caught.
Kodos had declared marital law because of the famine and only selected colonists were given rations of food. Eventually, when food became too scarce, Kodos had ordered half of the population to be executed to "save" the "better" half of the colonist. Jim and the small group of children who where supposed to have been executed had managed to escape capture and execution and survive in an abandoned building by begging, barrowing and stealing when necessary.
Jim had awoken alone in an unfamiliar room earlier that day. Jim was on some type of stretcher attached to monitors with multiple IV infusions running into his arms. He'd panicked and pulled out the IV lines and disconnected the monitor. He then ran down the deserted corridor and hid in small supply closet. The pain started almost immediately after pulling out the IV lines and grew progressively worse. Jim curled himself into a ball as his muscles cramped painfully.
Where was he? How long had he been here? Where was everyone? What had they done to him? Why not just kill him? Questions without answers, that was all that he had. Jim's eyes blurred with unshed tears. He was only thirteen, and had seen too much violence and death in his young life. His family was dead, killed by Kodos. Jim had barely escaped with his own life. Jim began to dry heave as his stomach cramped. The room began to spin and his vision tunneled and then there was nothing.
Chapter II
Spock
Vulcan Star date 2246
Spock breathed slowly in and out. He was deep in meditation. The desert sun shone brightly in the sky. His father Sarek was out on a mission, which was common for the diplomat.
"Spock," his mother called. Spock opened his eyes and looked up at his mother's frowning face. Amanda Grayson was a beautiful woman with a kind heart. Spock stood up quickly. "I have received a message from your father. Something terrible happen on a colony called Tarsus. Four thousand people were massacred, half the population, before Vulcan federation members, including your father, could get there and render aid."
"That is most unfortunate mother," Spock replied. Amanda's frown deepened. She sighed and wrung her hands while pacing back and fourth. Spock could sense his mother's distress.
Amanda stopped pacing and explained. "Spock, your father saved a human boy, James Kirk, from Tarsus and he will be coming to live with us now. He has no family and nowhere to go. The boy was nearly dead when he was found. He is stable but still critically ill; Vulcan Healers believe that he was being experimented on in Tarsus. His DNA isn't like a normal human's it was altered somehow. He has been placed into an artificial coma by the Vulcan Healers to mimic a healing trance while his body adjusts to the genetic changes in his DNA." Spock stared at his mother in shock.
"Mother," Spock murmured. He was at a complete loss for words. Spock was sixteen and had every attempt to embrace logic and the Vulcan ways of life and purge emotions, but this shocking news was getting the better of his practiced control. All his life other Vulcan children ridiculed him for his mixed heritage. They would intentional taunt him to try to elicit an emotional response. He was highly intelligent as well as musically and artistically gifted. He was also incredibly shy and introverted, which further isolated him from his peers and dismayed his father who wanted him to attend the Vulcan Science Academy next year. While he had developed very good control of his emotions, he often envied his mother, who was able to show her emotions without recourse.
"Your father will be here soon Spock. I need you to be strong for our family and make James feel welcomed once he is well. I know this is a shock but it is the right thing to do. I have complete faith in you," Amanda whispered pulling Spock into a tight embrace.
Chapter III
Sarek
Space Star date 2246
"Greetings," Sarek stated as he entered the sickbay. The healer, Veen, nodded in acknowledgement and gave Sarek a traditional Vulcan salute. "How is the human?" Sarek inquired. He looked down at James Kirk, the human was lying prone on the examination table covered by a thin blanket but still slept.
"His altered DNA has resulted in changes to his anatomy and physiology, the changes are ongoing but his vital signs are stable. I want him comatose until his body has completely stabilized," the healer stated. The healer placed his fingers over the human's psi points and initiated a mind meld. "Unfortunately, the human's mind and body are resistant to the induced coma. It would seem that he has developed rudimentary psychic abilities and is no longer psi-null. I have been forced to meld with him more often than I would like in order to keep him comatose in a trance-like state. It is most exhausting melding with a human that has not developed proper psychic shields." Sarek could easily see the stress on the healers face as he completed the meld. "I must meditate now to strengthen my shields after each meld. If you would like further information ambassador the chart is opened on my PADD, read through it and I will answer your questions after I have meditated. Live long and prosper." Sarek returned the greeting and opened the PADD as the healer left. Sarek began reading the chart.
Patient name: James T. Kirk
Species: Human
Gender: Apparent Male (see notes below)
Age: 13 terran years
Height: 5'3
Weight: 110 (see notes below)
Chromosomes: 47XXY (see notes below)
Physical Assessment
Head, Eyes, Ears, Nose & Throat: Normal cephalic appearance, blonde hair noted, eyes bright and clear, blue in color, hearing intact, ears symmetrical, Nares patent, Nasogastric feeding tube secured in left nare, proper placement confirmed, continuous feeding infusing via NGT for nutrition, Thyroid glands slightly enlarged, no lymphoid enlargement noted.
Neurological: Bilateral PERRLA noted, Patient remains in an induced comatose state, rudimentary psychic abilities developing, will continue to monitor.
Cardiac: Heart sounds audible in chest, regular rate and rhythm, slight cardiomegaly noted.
Respiratory: Respirations even and unlabored, breath sounds clear bilaterally; chest wall appears slightly barreled, increased lung volume and expansion noted.
Gastrointestinal: Abdomen soft, flat, non-tender, bowel sounds present, Last bowel movement today.
Genitourinary: Patient voiding without difficulty, clear yellow urine, penis and descended testicles present, however sealed slit noted directly behind testicles across perineum, sensitive to touch, dilatation and speculum required for further assessment, will complete at later date with patients consent. Abdominal U/S indicates presence of uterus and ovaries, which are dormant at this time. Patient is prepubescent at this time.
Skin: Intact, no redness bruising or discoloration
Musculoskeletal: CMS checks positive, multiple anomalies noted. Bone density significantly decreased. Increasing muscle mass, wings growing and developing on patients back, white plumage noted, patient placed on side or prone to allow wings further unimpeded growth and development.
Peripheral Vascular: Peripheral pulses present, blood pressure stable, increased circulating blood volume secondary to developing organs and appendages.
Sarek glanced up from the PADD at the human. James, he reminded himself. He got up and carefully removed the blanket covering Jim's back. Sarek inhaled sharply at the sight before him. When they had found James on Tarsus. The boy was hiding in a closet naked and unconscious. Sarek had picked him up and there had been no sign of wing development then, the boy had just been painfully underweight. Now just two days later, James had indeed developed wings. They were small only covering about a fourth of his back with pure white downy feathers covering them. Sarek replaced the blanket.
Sarek began to doubt the wisdom of taking the mutating human home to Vulcan with him to live with his family. He turned back to the PADD to continue reading the chart. He glanced up when he heard a moan. James was waking up. His blue eyes blinked slowly as he fought to stay conscious. The monitors began to alarm as his heart rate and blood pressure increased rapidly. The sound of the alarms seemed to trigger some kind of anxiety attack and James began to panic, and rolled off the table. Sarek was able to catch him before he hit the ground. "James, don't be afraid we are here to help you; my mind to your mind, my thoughts to your thoughts." Sarek said softly while placing his fingers on Jim's psi point's initiating a meld. Sarek was bombarded by fear, panic and anger. He was able to calm those feelings and Jim's memories began to stream through his mind. The poor child had truly been though a horrific experience. Sarek spoke softly to Jim and sent reassurance through the meld. Jim began to calm and his vitals began to normalize. Sarek was taken aback when he felt Jim's psychic presence instinctively push at his shields attempting to access Sarek's memories. This was more than rudimentary ability. Jim's psychic abilities were growing stronger. Sarek attempted to coax James back to sleep gently but James fought it and began to struggle. "It is alright James, I will not hurt you, we rescued you from Tarsus." James stopped struggling.
"Who are you and where am I?" James asked in a hoarse voice. Sarek carefully sat James down on the exam table before answering. The boy squirmed. "I feel strange. My back itches." Jim whispered. The developing wings on his back began to twitch and stretch.
"I am Sarek, a Vulcan ambassador. The federation sent us to bring aid to Tarsus but unfortunately we arrived too late to save the majority of people." James began to shake at the mention of Tarsus. Sarek continued. "You are on your way to Vulcan my home world, I am willing to take you in as you have no living family left. You have been through a horrible ordeal. I strongly suggest that you rest and save your strength."
Chapter IV
James
Space Star date 2246
James looked up at the Vulcan called Sarek in confusion. He felt so strange. He was hungry and terribly thirsty but he also felt over stimulated and hyper. He squirmed and twitched uncomfortably. His muscles felt tight, especially his back. He looked down at himself and realized he was buck-naked and turned beet red. "Can I have some clothes please?" James asked softly as his eyes began burning as they filled with tears. He sniffled and felt something in his nose as he rubbed it. He instinctively began to pick at it.
"No, don't touch that James. That is how we have been feeding you while you were asleep. You are terribly underweight and malnourished." Sarek said gently pulling Jim's hand away from the tube. Jim began to shake again remembering the tubes that were feeding him on Tarsus. Sarek went to a small closet and wrapped a thick large robe around Jim. He was swimming in it but at least he was covered and would stay warm. Jim smiled gratefully.
Just as James was about to ask another question, the door to the sick bay opened and another Vulcan walked in. Sarek immediately held up his hand and began speaking rapidly in what Jim assumed must be Vulcan. They had a rather heated discussion that Jim couldn't understand. Jim was surprised when the other Vulcan spoke in English to Sarek. "He should be asleep, his mind and body are going through rapid and dramatic changes."
"I tried to get him to fall asleep but he fought it. Perhaps it would be best if we allowed him to resume his natural sleep cycle." Sarek said to the other Vulcan who scowled at him.
"How about explaining what's going on? What rapid and dramatic changes are happening? Jim asked licking his dry lips. He groaned as his back cramped painfully. "My back hurts, what's wrong with me?" Jim asked as tears began to fall.
"It is alright Jim, breathe deeply, Veen is a Vulcan healer and will check your back." Sarek said carefully removing Jim's robe. The Vulcan healer came around behind him and began speaking rapidly in Vulcan. Sarek answered in Vulcan and craned his neck to see Jim's back.
"What is it? What's happening?" Jim began to get agitated. Sarek quickly silenced the alarms on the monitors and spoke softly and calmly to Jim carefully touching his psi points initiating a very weak meld.
"Jim it is alright. Do not be afraid, you are safe here. You feel no pain." Sarek said employing a partial nerve pinch numbing Jim's back. "You need to rest Jim for a few moments, let yourself go, don't fight me." Sarek sent very strong feelings of relaxation and reassurance. "Jim you are exhausted, sleep now just for a bit." Sarek watched as Jim's eye's began to droop and he yawned. "That's right, don't fight it, just rest," Jim's eyes closed completely and his body relaxed and fell forward into Sarek's arms.
Chapter V
Sarek
Space Star date 2246
"I am grateful you have finally seen logically and put him to sleep." Veen stated taking Jim from Sarek's arms and placing him prone on the exam table. Now that James was on his stomach, his wings were clearly visible to Sarek. Both wings twitched violently and grew before the Vulcan's eyes. The wings lengthened and the downy plumage began to malt as large white scarlet tipped feathers emerged. The wings continued to lengthen and expanded to cover Jim's entire back. The downy feathers were completely gone and Jim now had white wings with red tips. Once the twitching had stopped, Sarek and Veen carefully opened Jim's wings. They were beautiful and fully formed. The human now resembled the angels in Christian mythology. "Based on the size and structure of these wings he should easily be capable of flight." Veen said as they carefully closed Jim's wings.
"I am going to scan him again to see if the genetic alterations are now complete." Veen initiated a meld and a moment later he withdrew. "It is nearly complete. His psychic abilities will continue to strengthen with time and his wings are now fully formed and will grow naturally as he does. The only thing that I am unsure of is how puberty will affect him; He has a functional set of male and female organs. I do not know which one will become active during puberty."
Sarek sighed. This was unexpected. He was not even sure if James was technically even human anymore. It was going to be a huge shock for the boy once he woke up and learned the truth. Sarek had promised him a place to stay and despite everything he would not go back on his word. If Jim wanted to come with him, he would be welcomed. Sarek would have to teach him to build psychic shields as he was no longer psi-null, but that could be done with time and patience. "When does puberty typically hit teenage boys?" Sarek asked.
"Between twelve and sixteen years of age, however Jim is no longer a "typical" teenage boy so it could be anytime." Veen answered. "He needs to gain weight. He will need his strength if he is to develop proper shields."
The ships communicator chirped to life, approaching Vulcan, Estimated Time of Arrival 1 hour.
Chapter VI
Spock
Vulcan Star date 2246
Spock painted the desert landscape with ease. His brush strokes were strong, effortlessly merging colors to create a near perfect rendition of the Vulcan sunset. Spock found painting often helped him ease tension more so than mediation. His father Sarek never approved of Spock's artistic endeavors. Illogical, he said when Spock had shown him his first painting when he was only five. Even at that tender age he showed exceptional promise as an artist. Spock was also an accomplished musician on the Ka'athyra or lute. Despite his father gifting him the instrument, music was still second-class. Subjects of value were: math, science, logic, and reasoning. Music, as well as art, those were things ruled by emotion and hence had little to no value to Vulcan society. While Spock excelled in all of his courses, his father still looked at him with wary eyes. Sometimes Spock wondered why Sarek had married his mother and tried so hard to give her a child. Illogical, Spock thought. What is done is done. One must not dwell on what one cannot change.
Sarek would soon be back home with a new family member. James T. Kirk, son of George Kirk, true hero and pioneer of space. Space, that was another thing that had been on Spock's mind as of late. His father expected him to attend the Vulcan Space Academy next year, but truthfully, Spock did not feel right about it. Even with his best efforts to remain logical, Vulcan's, not only his peers but also most of his species looked down on him for his mixed heritage. Spock would much prefer to explore other academic options where he would be able to go beyond Vulcan's narrow views and be seen for himself and his accomplishments rather than his genetic make up.
Spock took his painting and placed it in the pile with the others. He had long ago stopped showing his paintings to anyone. Now he painted purely for himself. Spock went in search of his mother to see if she had an update on his father whereabouts.
Chapter VII
James
Vulcan Star date 2246
James awoke to the sound of Sarek's voice calling out him. "Jim wake up, we have something important to discuss with you," Jim sat up and stretched. He felt so much better the muscle cramps were gone and along with the twitchy anxious feelings. He was, however, still very hungry and thirsty. Jim touched his nose to see if the tube was still in place. Yeah, it was still there and it made him want to sneeze. Maybe they would take it out and let him eat since he was feeling so much better. His stomach rumbled loudly, as if to remind him of how long it had been since he had eaten solid food.
"Can you take this tube out, so I can eat? I'm starving." Jim asked Sarek. Sarek looked at Veen who nodded and approached Jim, quickly removing the tube. Jim sighed and smiled, that felt so much better. Sarek handed Jim a glass of water, which Jim drank quickly in one long gulp and held the empty glass out in a silent request for more.
Sarek refilled he glass and handed it to Jim, who quickly drank it down and asked for more. "Don't drink too much too fast it will make you sick." Veen said and gave Jim a bowel full of soup, which Jim promptly devoured.
"Can I have some more; something solid?" Jim asked hopefully. He promptly began to hiccup loudly. He tried holding his breath but the hiccups just kept coming.
"If that stays down and you still feel hungry, you can have more in an hour." Veen stated, removing the empty bowel.
Jim sighed, "Alright, what do you need, hiccup, to discuss?" Hiccup. Jim blushed.
"Jim," Sarek began. " While you were in Tarsus, something was done to you. We do not know the details of what was done, but we do know that whatever it was caused you drastic mental and physical changes. I'm sorry for this Jim, but we will help you any way we can." Sarek said.
Jim felt his anxiety level spike. "Changes? What kind of changes?" Jim asked and began to tremble slightly.
"Your DNA was altered. This caused major structural changes in your body and mind. Jim you may not yet be aware of it but you have developed physic abilities. In addition, your chromosomes are now different. We believe this caused a number of biological changes. Your bones are less dense almost completely hollow, your muscle mass has increased and so has you lung capacity. Your reproductive organs were also affected you still have a penis and testes but now also have a uterus and ovaries, which are currently dormant. Finally, you have developed a set of wings which given there size and structure will most likely enable you to fly." Sarek looked at Jim with wary eyes.
Jim began to hyperventilate. "What? No, that can't be right." Jim shouted squeezing his eyes shut and shaking his head.
"Jim, try to remain calm, turn around and look in the mirror behind you." Sarek said gently touching Jim shoulder. Sarek winced as a flood of emotions came pouring out at him but he forced himself to hold on and project calm reassuring thoughts to Jim.
Jim slowly turned his head and saw his back in the mirror. "Holy Shit!" He screamed, as he saw his wings for the first time. Jim unfurled them stretching them out to their full span. He began to flap instinctively and was quickly air borne. "How do get down?" He called down to Sarek and Veen. He hadn't even meant to fly up here, just started flapping and up he went.
"Tilt your wings down and glide." Sarek called. Jim did as he was told and landed smoothly. He wrapped his wings around himself and started to shake again. "Jim, we have landed on my home world of Vulcan. Come with me and meet your new family." Jim nodded numbly, feeling completely overwhelmed. Sarek thanked Veen for his treatment of Jim. Veen nodded in acknowledgement. "Live long and prosper."
Jim took in the planets environment as Sarek lead Jim to his home. The atmosphere was thin and arid and the landscape was deserts as far as the eye could see. Jim's wings twitched, as he imagined flying high above the sand and canyons. Still somewhat in shock from all the days' revelations, Jim entered Sarek's home and was taken by surprise when a beautiful human woman greeted him. "You must be James, it's a pleasure to meet you, and I'm Sarek's wife, Amanda." Behind her stood a young Vulcan. He was handsome, tall and broad shouldered with a straight nose, high cheekbones, smooth black hair and dark eyes. "This is our son Spock." The young Vulcan barely met his gaze.
"Live long and prosper," Spock said stiffly.
"Pleased to meet both of you." Jim said. He felt his face flush slightly. He tightened his wings closer together flush against his back. He felt more subconscious with each passing minute.
"Both of you may have noticed Jim's anomalies, his wings, most remarkably. In addition, he has psychic ability unlike most humans who are psi-null. This is a product of artificial genetic manipulation done on Tarsus," Sarek stated plainly. Jim face quickly went from pink to bright red.
"Sarek you're making the poor child uncomfortable," Amanda said gently taking Jim's arm. "You must forgive my husband Vulcan's are ruled by logic and it would be logical to state the facts pertaining to your appearance even though it may cause you embarrassment. He meant no harm."
Jim nodded relaxing slightly. "I know, Sarek has saved my life more than once." Just when Jim didn't think he could be more embarrassed, his stomach gurgled loudly.
"You must be hungry," Amanda said with a soft smile. Jim nodded. He liked Sarek's wife very much. "Come I have food prepared." He, Sarek, and Spock followed Amanda into the dining room.
"This is very good, what is it called?" Jim asked while quickly gobbling it down.
"Saffir," Sarek replied indicating the grain dish that Jim had just finished. Jim the then moved on to the soup. "Plomeek," Sarek stated before Jim even had a chance to ask. "Kreyla," Sarek said pointing to the bread. "Soltar," indicating the fruit. "As you have probably noted, Jim, Vulcan's are vegetarians." Sarek continued. Jim nodded and continued eating happily. "Jim when the meal is over I want to work with you on developing psychic shields." Jim nodded, slightly unsure what Sarek was talking about but figured he would explain soon enough. Jim noticed that Spock raised an eyebrow at his father's request.
Jim was on his way to meet Sarek in his study after dinner. Jim had eaten almost to the point of gluttony. He was stuffed. He rubbed his distended stomach and belched loudly. He flushed, thankful that the hallway was empty, and that no one heard it. Jim couldn't remember the last time he'd felt full. He yawned as his eyes started feeling heavy. He knocked on the door to the study. "Enter Jim," Sarek called. Jim came into the study. "Please sit down Jim." Sarek said indicating a chair.
By the time the lesson was done, Jim could barely keep his eyes open. He'd been fatigued before the lesson began and after intensive instructions on psychic and mental shields Jim was ready to drop. He struggled to remember which room was now his. "Second door on the right," Spock said as they met in the hall.
"Thanks," Jim mumbled trying to stifle a yawn and failing miserably. He then made his way to his room where he fell asleep before his head hit the pillow with his wings spread wide.
Chapter VIII
Spock
Vulcan Star date 2246
Spock awoke the next morning to find James Kirk looking at photographs on the wall on his way out of the bathroom. "Greetings," Spock called while trying to avoid staring at the magnificent white and red wings.
Jim turned to him and gave him a small unsure smile. "Good morning, Spock." Jim answered stepping closer to him. Spock was shocked that he felt Jim's psychic presence without touching him. His father was definitely right to teach the human to shield as soon as possible. Jim was projecting his thoughts and feelings unconsciously. Spock could sense Jim's unease. He began to fidget slightly, his wings twitching slightly as well.
"I trust you slept well?" Spock inquired attempting to lessen Jim's unease and make him feel welcomed, as his mother had asked. Jim nodded and began to wring his hands as his mother often while nervous or upset.
"Do you play chess?" The question seemed to surprise Jim, but he nodded again. "I have an antique chess set in my room. You are welcomed to join me for a game if you so desire." Jim smiled softly and nodded. "Follow me," Spock replied.
Jim was surprisingly apt at chess, although Spock still prevailed. Jim's eyes began scanning his room once the game was finished and focused on his lute in the corner of the room. "What's that," Jim asked curiously.
"That is a Ka'athyra, or Vulcan lute," Spock replied.
"You play? What does it sound like?" Jim asked somewhat eagerly. Jim flushed immediately after asking. "I'm sorry, I didn't mean to offend you." Jim had obviously mistaken Spock's look of surprise for displeasure.
"You did not, I assure you, and your question was a logical one. I was merely surprised that you take an interest in music. On Vulcan music and art are somewhat frown upon." Spock explained. Jim's brows furrowed in obvious confusion. "You will no doubt learn more about Vulcan culture and history while you are here. Would you like to hear me play?" Spock inquired. Jim smiled widely and nodded. Spock picked up his lute and began to play tradition Vulcan folk music from before the time of Surak. The instrument had soft clear tones and the melody was complex with different counterpoints blending together throughout. Jim could tell that it must take considerable talent to perform such a piece.
"That was beautiful. You are very talented." Jim grinned. Spock noted that his eyes seemed to shine. Jim's stomach rumbled loudly. Jim grin faded and he flushed placing a hand on his abdomen.
"Sorry, I'm turning into a bottomless pit." Jim murmured breaking eye contact.
"That statement is illogical." Spock assured. "You are quite obviously under weight and require more food to get back to an ideal healthy weight." Jim flushed again, but nodded. " Come to the kitchen where we can acquire sustenance."
Spock watched Jim quickly devour every bit of food put in front of him. After finishing it all, Jim smiled and yawned. "Sorry," Jim apologized. "For some reason, I get really sleepy after a big meal." Spock noticed that Jim soon began to squirm. "Excuse me, need to use the restroom." Jim explained as he stood up. Spock began clearing the dishes, when his mother entered the kitchen. She smiled brightly at him.
"How did you sleep darling? Is Jim up yet?" His mother asked noticing the dishes he was washing. Spock nodded. "How is he Spock? I'm worried about him. I can't imagine how difficult it must be adjusting to all of those changes, especially for someone as young as him."
"He seems unsure about a number of things mother which is logical, after all, as you pointed out, he has gone through drastic physical and mental changes." Spock allowed his mother to peck him on the cheek embrace him briefly.
"I'm a happy he will have you for support Spock. I always wanted more children and for you to have siblings and now, in a way, you do." His mother smiled leaving Spock to contemplate her words.
Chapter IX
James
Vulcan Star date 2246
The canyons and deep valleys shown as the light from the rising Vulcan sun hit them reflecting a stunning mixture of reds, browns, yellows and even hints of pink. It was at times like this when Jim felt truly at peace. He flew high above the desert, the wind on his face and under his wings. All of his worries and insecurities seemed to vanish with flight. Parts of him instinctively yearned for this time in the air. Jim smiled and closed his eyes briefly just enjoying the feeling of being aloft. When Jim's wings began to tire, he glided slowly downwards and flew home.
It had been just over two months since Jim was rescued from Tarsus and brought to Vulcan. Jim still found it difficult to believe how much his life had changed since Tarsus. The physical and mental changes were still occurring, but at a much slower rate. While Jim had gained weight and was now healthy, his large appetite remained secondary to an extremely high metabolism rate. He was prone to sudden drops in blood sugar if he didn't eat frequently during the day. He had also developed other distinct instinctual behaviors, which were not typical of humans. He often felt the urge to nest. His bedroom at home was quite atypical. In fact, he had even made himself nest deep in the canyon ridge to rest between flights. Additionally, he had developed an aversion to water. He could still tolerate showers but they had become rather unpleasant. He also often found himself producing distinct vocalizations similar to a doves coo when extremely pleased. The strongest behavior, however, was the need for flight. If Jim didn't fly regularly, he became physically and mentally unstable and aggressive. His psychic abilities now rivaled those of Vulcan's, and included a form of telepathy as well as telekinesis. He had developed strong shields and exceptional control with the help of both Sarek and Spock and was quite confident in his psychic stability. He also had grown stronger, still not as strong as Vulcan's but much more so than normal humans. Jim adjusted to all these changes remarkably well all things considered. The only thing that still worried him deeply were the possible changes that might come with puberty. Everything about it was still a huge unknown from when it would start to what would happen when it did. Jim was raised male and considered himself to be fully male, however there was a possibility that once puberty hit the female organs would become active rather than the male. Jim had asked healers if his womb could be removed but they always refused, unsure of the dangers and possible side effects that this could cause.
Jim sighed and tried not to dwell over things that he had no control over. Things could be a hell of a lot worse that was for sure. While Vulcan's in general pretty much ignored or looked down on him, he truly loved and respected his adoptive family. Amanda held a special place in his heart. He and Spock had also become remarkably close friends. While Spock still acted aloof at times, Jim knew this was a defense mechanism when he was feeling particularly emotional, and trying to hide it, although, Spock would never admit such a thing. Sarek was logical too the extreme but that was full-blooded Vulcan for you and Jim knew that in his own logical way he cared about his family deeply.
Jim let himself into the house and was confused when he heard Sarek and Spock speaking coldly to on another both of their voices slightly elevated in Vulcan. While Jim had picked up some Vulcan, he was still wasn't fluent and Spock and Sarek were talking at warp speed leaving Jim completely lost. Amanda stood in the corner of the room looking worried. "What's going on?" Jim asked.
Spock looked up at him. The tips of his ears flushed green with his distress. "I have been accepted to Starfleet Academy and wish to attend." Spock spoke tightly switching back to English for Jim's benefit.
"Illogical, S'chn T'gai Spock! You will attend Vulcan Science Academy. Starfleet is not acceptable." Sarek stated and then continued his objections in Vulcan. Jim glanced at Amanda to get her reaction. She was wringing her hands and pacing back and forth. Say something, he mouthed at her.
"Sarek! Enough!" Amanda shouted. Sarek's head snapped around to stared at his wife in shock. Spock turned to look at his mother in stunned silence as well. "Spock is no longer a child and can make his own decisions." Amanda stated in a tone that left no room for argument.
"Amanda, Spock is to stay on Vulcan and receive a proper education at a proper Vulcan institution." Sarek replied coldly to his wife.
"Sarek you need to think of what Spock wants and what is best for him. When I married you, I moved to Vulcan because I loved you. When we had a child, I allowed you to raise him in the Vulcan ways. I think that was a mistake. As much as both you and Spock try to ignore it, the fact remains that Spock is half human. Because of this, Vulcan's alienated him when all he tried to do was fit in and make you proud. Is it really any wonder that he does not want to continue his higher education here on Vulcan amongst the very people who continue to look down on him simply because of his human blood? Sarek please allow Spock to choose. If you love him, let him be happy in his own choices and destiny." For the first time, Sarek seemed at a loss for words. He opened his mouth and closed it again. He sighed, something, which Jim had never seen him do before.
"Your mother is right Spock you are old enough to make your choice. I will support your decision to go to Starfleet if that is what you truly desire." Sarek said softly. "I am proud of the man you are becoming." Amanda beamed a brilliant smile.
"Now, Sarek darling, was that really so hard?" Amanda asked. Touching her fingers to Sarek's in the Vulcan equivalent to a human kiss.
Spock mouth hung open in utter shock. He took a few deep breaths. Then in a shaky voice he said, "Thank you mother, father, Jim I love you all dearly and will miss you while I am gone."