Commander Spock of the USS Enterprise stood outside his captain's door. His bearing might have been called hesitant, had he not been Vulcan. But he did admit to uncertainty about how to broach the subject at hand. It was completely illogical, of course. The matter they had to discuss was not an uncommon one for Starfleet officers, and in any case, Spock hadn't been anything less than completely comfortable with the captain for well over a year. Nevertheless…

"Come!" As Spock stepped into the room, Captain James T. Kirk could tell immediately there was something going on. Three years of working together, day in and day out, until they were as close as brothers gave Kirk the ability to read Vulcan facial expressions and controlled emotions. And to his eyes, Spock seemed almost…nervous.

"Anything wrong, Spock?" Kirk asked. This was an unusual display for the First Officer, whose reticence was notorious; Kirk wouldn't forget how Spock hadn't told anyone about the requirements of the Vulcan mating cycle until he was literally on the point of death, or how Spock had not mentioned his parents would be onboard until Kirk was already face to face with them. Hoping to avoid a similar situation, Kirk asked again, "Spock? You look like you have something to say."

Spock hesitated for the briefest second before sitting down across the table from Kirk. "I have been offered a position, Captain."

Kirk glanced up sharply. That had not been what he'd expected, although it was a classic example of Spock's trademark say-nothing-and-then-drop-a-giant-news-bombshell approach. Although his first reaction was hurt, he pushed it aside and said light-heartedly, "A position? I wasn't aware you were looking."

"I was not. However, the position has been offered."

"Well? What is the position?" Kirk asked, thinking it might be command of a science vessel, or even a promotion to captain and command of a starship. He believed wholeheartedly that Spock was more than deserving of both, however much he hated to lose his first officer.

Spock seemed to actually sigh somewhat, "It is a diplomatic position as liaison to the Medusans."

Kirk thought for a minute, "Aren't they the ones no human can look at without going mad?"

"Precisely, Captain. That is why the Federation has decided to offer the post to Vulcans. There are certain precautions we can take to avoid that fate. In addition, the Medusans would require a telepathic link to communicate fully."

Kirk nodded. He remembered hearing about the Medusans, their supposedly hideous appearance as well as the knowledge they could bring to the Federation. He and Spock had actually discussed them, and Kirk remembered how fascinated Spock had been with the possibilities.

"Well, what are you going to do?"

"To establish a link with a Medusan would be fascinating," Spock said, his eyes lighting up. "They have extensive scientific knowledge and to study such a unique culture is a rare opportunity." Now Kirk knew Spock was seriously considering this offer.

"However," Spock was saying now, "It would be unfortunate if I had to desert my post on the Enterprise. I am still assigned here for the next 1.8 years, and would have to resign from Starfleet to pursue the assignment."

Kirk waved a hand, "Look, Spock, if you really want the position, you should take it. It sounds like a great opportunity, both to learn and to establish valuable relations for the Federation, and I know what both of those things mean to you," Kirk swallowed, imagining the Enterprise without Spock. He couldn't picture it. Can't, or don't want to, he asked himself. "I mean, I hate to lose you, Spock. You're the best officer I've ever served with, but it's your choice. If you want it, you should take it." God, he'd miss Spock. Their chess games, the constant moral support, even the never-ending bickering with McCoy.

Spock tilted his head slightly to one side, "Thank you, Captain. I believe I will consider this further before making my decision."

Kirk watched Spock go, wondering if he'd have to be looking for a new first officer soon, and trying to ignore how painful the thought was. Spock, on returning to his cabin, sent a communique detailing his interest in the position and requesting more information about the duties and opportunities it entailed. It was best to be as informed as possible in making such a decision.