Dear Readers:

This story continues The San Francisco Saga. The twins are two months old, Christine and Lo'vaak are married and have returned from their honeymoon, but their work schedules have prevented them from spending quality time with their 'family.'

As would be expected, Spock is not comfortable with the idea of his sons being exposed through the media circus. Nyota wished that he would make the decision, and she had reminded him of the conversation he had with Ms Flippin about their re-appearance on her show after the birth of their sons.*

Just what impact these two couples, Spock and Nyota and Lo'vaak and Christine have on this twenty-third century's 'Oprah' will be revealed.

The train is leaving, All Aboard…

*See my 'To The Making of Books')

LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION…

Chapter 1

Exposure?

Two months after the birth of their twins, and two weeks after Christine's marriage, Nyota received a very anxious call from Elizabeth (Bettie) Flippin, the hostess of HoloVid Station TSAF's most popular show, "The Stars Are Forever'.

When first informed of that title, Spock had pointed out how inaccurate that statement was, because while in space they had witnessed births and deaths of countless stars throughout the galaxy. Nyota informed him that the stars being referred to were individuals immortalized in the entertainment field. Spock accepted Nyota's explanation for, although still illogical, it was at least not at odds with observable and proven science.

Ms. Flippin had called them in an effort to set up a marker, a tentative date for their return to her show.. Spock was extremely concerned about any negative consequences that might be incurred by their sons being brought to the attention of the galaxy's entire viewing audience-so many of them amidst the stars. He felt his natural need for privacy, and the obvious imperative to protect his family. In addition, he had to consider that his father's status as ambassador might be tarnished by such a casual appearance on a broadcast of such a non-essential nature. As a matter of fact, he was naturally repelled by the idea. But he recalled, there had been a pseudo promise made to Ms Flippin, when they had not rejected her request to return after the birth of their sons, and Vulcans don't lie.

Perhaps a conversation with Commander Nguyen from Star Fleet's Public Relations Desk might prove helpful. He contacted that department and requested an appointment with the Commander. They had not seen each other since his assistance was necessary to avoid exposure of his and Nyota's non-professional relationship by the media. This experience had occur while they visited his mother's family years ago. (See Ashlee Elizabeth's 'Insight')

Commander Nugyen welcomed Spock into his office. He could not believe his eyes, gone was the 'up-tight, non committing, barely verbal male, in his stead was a poised, conversationalist. Nguyen came to the same conclusion that he had during that earlier experience, that Commander Spock's relationship with Lieutenant Uhura, had made him the person that stood before him this day.

Spock, greeted this old acquaintance, when the greeting was reciprocated, Spock responded with the typical Vulcan nod of his head.

Commander Spock, "How can I be of assistance to you?"

Spock filled in the details of his life since they last met, and the dilemma he now faced. As the head of the public relations department for Star Fleet, Nugyenr was very much aware of the need to always show the Academy in a positive light. He was also aware of Spock and Nyota's role as Star Fleet's golden couple-not yet married, but always showcased with one another. People would remember him as one of the heroes of 'The Battle of Terra' and Nyota as the most talented xenoliquistic graduate in Star Fleet's history. Always at Spock's side, interpreting for him the nuances of human and other species conduct, non-verbal communication and speech Certainly now, as a married couple, with children, how much more would the exposure be positive. There was no way he could have orchestrated a more ideal scenario.

Nugyen explained the media exposure in the most positive light possible. He reasoned with Spock and told him that, as spokesman and head of public relations he would take it upon himself to personally get in touch with Ms Flippin. The date and amount of 'exposure' would be controlled by his department. Spock left the office quite settled and although not looking forward to the experience, at least was comfortable with it.

Through their bond Spock conveyed to Nyota what had transpired during his visit with Nugyen, and was sent feelings of contentment, and also instructions to bring home some milk and bread. While it was so that the twins did not consume cow's milk, Nyota drank it by the gallons-one could say, milk in, milk out…

When he arrived home, he easily located his family in the Rose Garden, Nyota on the lounge chair and the twins in their stroller sleeping. He bent down and kissed his wife and pulled a chair up to her side.

"It is settled then?" was inquiry.

"Yes, Commander Nugyen will take care of the particulars. Holo-vids of the interview will be used by Star Fleet as a recruiting tool at some point in time. I am now able to deal this oncoming experience since it does incorporate the Vulcan thought of 'the needs of the many…"

"But are you comfortable with it?"

"Yes, Beloved, my mind is settled"

'Good.' was her silent affirmation.