A/N: Dag nabbit…whenever I am told that I have made a reader cry, it makes me cry, too. It amazes me that so many people have been impacted by my story so far, and it drives me to keep plugging on. Thank you all, and keep letting me know what you think, and how you react to my chapters. Love you all for this!

This chapter took me forever to write…and I may choose to re-do it later on, but I wanted to post it, anyway. For the record, I normally despise when people put song lyrics into their fics, as I find them to be rather distracting. However, I am guilty of it in this chapter, but I defend myself by saying that I felt they were appropriate. Lyrics are borrowed from The Cruxshadows (AMAZING band, by the way!).

Continuous thanks to Hannah, my co-conspirator and center of inspiration.

"You asked to see me, Father?"

In his study, Sarek looked up as his son entered. Data screens and transmissions from the Vulcan Science Academy were set aside as he rose and stepped out from behind his desk.

"Yes. Please come in and have a seat, Spock."

Spock did so, sitting in a chair before the desk. "I am not interrupting important business?"

"Not in the slightest." On the contrary, Sarek had a topic of great significance he wanted to discuss with him. Since there were only two days until he was scheduled to return to his duties on the Enterprise, he felt it necessary to speak now. "I have a specific reason for summoning you this morning. I wish to make a request of you."

"You need only ask." He paused, thoughtful. "Does this pertain to Lauren in any way?"

"In every way, indeed." He walked with languid steps over to the large window, gazing at the jagged cliffs against blue sky. "You have been out with her in the public eye on numerous occasions in the past few days. According to your observations, how do others seem to regard her?"

His father's voice had become low. It was a question of mild concern. "There is evidence of interest, punctuated by the turning of many heads to capture a glimpse of her. Usually, this is followed by an exchange of whispered words between themselves, but they are never said to her. In her typical manner, she is polite and respectful, smiling at them in greeting, but no further conversation takes place."

"Nothing further?"

"No, Father. Verbal contact has yet to be initiated by anyone outside of our family, save for those serving her at cafés when we have taken lunch together. She does not appear to be discouraged by their private gossip, which I commend her for."

So did he. "Have you sensed any aggression towards her?"

"I have not," he said truthfully.

Sarek nodded, seemingly satisfied. "Lauren has made quite the transition to Vulcan II in the past couple of weeks. Much credit must go to you for this." Spock blinked, though was unsurprised. "Your presence here has been beneficial, since the trust and love she holds for you have no depths. I wish to express my gratitude in having you come to us."

"It was a decision that required little thought on my part," he declared.

"Which I do not doubt. You have always had her best interests in mind, just as I do." The look on his face became distant. "When you leave the planet, she will have one less person to ensure those interests are met."

The statement planted a protective seed in the pit of his stomach. "Do you foresee threats to her well-being after I am gone, Father?"

Sarek considered his response for several minutes. "I have faith in our people being accepting of Lauren, as they did accept…tolerate your mother's presence. She has a spirit about her; you know this. As Sarah pointed out long ago, she's incredibly receptive of those who are unlike her, more so than many people from Earth. Perhaps having her here could be a catalyst leading to even stronger relations between Vulcans and humans. Her impression may be minor, but it would be an impression nonetheless."

He turned to look at Spock. "However, I will not deny my very existent reservations." Even a Vulcan as disciplined as Sarek could not disguise the defensive flicker that went through his eyes. "I have full trust in her, but I do not fully trust other Vulcans with her. There is a chance that her experience could be negative, should any of our people choose to reject her. While I would rather avoid this, I may not always be able to guard her from the harshness of narrow minds. This is where I seek your help, Spock. I would like you to assist me in locating a sanctuary for the child."

He angled his head. "A sanctuary?"

"A place on Vulcan II for her to obtain safety should she ever feel endangered here." His attention went back to the window, his posture suggesting complete calm and control. "I am thinking only of her with this idea."

"A logical reasoning, and I am in agreement with you. Anyone would do all in their power to keep family from harm."

"I am pleased to have your support on the subject. Your responsibilities to Starfleet take priority, of course, but while you are away, I would like you to find a refuge for her. I know it may take months before a suitable location on this planet is found, but the wait shall be worthwhile."

An eyebrow rose, as his mind had already settled on a potential idea. "I do have my responsibilities to Starfleet, but remember that I also have devotion to my family in times of need. This, fittingly, does sound like a time of need." Standing, he clasped his hands behind his back and came to stand next to Sarek. Looking out the window, he also took in the vast scenic view from the study. "If you'll permit me, Father, I have a place in mind."

With Sarek's approval, Spock led Lauren to his intended sanctuary. Both Vulcans had explained the reason for a safe-haven, and even though Lauren secretly thought it unnecessary, she did not object. They were just trying to protect her. What she had challenged, however, was when she was informed that her uncle would not accompany them, or be allowed to know of this place. Spock ensured he would explain everything once they arrived at their destination. This, to his relief, momentarily sufficed.

A majority of the journey was made via Sarek's personal shuttle, preventing the likelihood of exhausting the human child; they trekked the remaining miles across mountainous desert on foot. Heat from the afternoon sun pounded down on Lauren's covered head, but she marched on beside Spock, keeping the pace he had set; he was unaffected by the intense warmth. She was glad to have such a pair of sturdy shoes to withstand the rugged terrain.

A hand wiped at the perspiration on her brow. "How much farther is this place?"

"Another half-mile remains. Are you growing weary, Lauren?"

She shook her head. "I'm alright. Still wondering why you wanted me to bring my violin, though." The case was grasped in her hand, and felt like it was growing heavier as they walked.

"I have not yet received a personal performance from you." Only she could read his countenance as suggesting the obvious. "It has been several years since I last heard you play."

She smiled. "I guess it has been. What is it about you and violin music?"

He gave a small shrug with one shoulder. "The music it creates is appealing to Vulcan ears. Father's sentiments are akin to mine."

"Fair enough," she giggled. "Of course I'll play for you."

"I am pleased to hear it."

"Any special requests?"

He almost smiled. "Not at the moment, but perhaps I shall come up with one at a later time. I also believe your skills will be appreciated by your host."

She halted, cautiously curious. "Host?"

He looked at her. "Yes. This place I am taking you has a solitary resident, a Vulcan Elder, if you will. One who has resided there since the establishment of the colony. He prefers to live in solitude, but will not refuse you should you need to seek his shelter."

"He agreed to that?"

He could not say yes, as there had been no discussion with the Elder yet. "I simply know this." He placed a hand on her shoulder. "Worry not: I assure you he is completely trustworthy."

She did not realize she had nodded. "So then, you know this person well?"

If only she had known the irony of her inquiry. Well, she would be finding out soon enough. "In a way, quite intimately."

More walking ensued, including a descent into a shallow, secluded valley. From here, the pair could no longer view the regions of civilization, which now lay miles behind them. When they came to the bottom of the dusty valley, Spock glanced up the side of one of the smaller mountains, familiar with the rocky surroundings. "We must make a vertical ascent to reach the entrance of the residence." Here, he stopped, retrieving his water canteen, as he had a few times during their walk. "You must drink and keep hydrated. The refresher will aid you in the climb."

She gladly accepted it, taking a few generous swallows, then wiping her mouth on her arm. "This host," she said, returning the canteen, "does he have a name?"

Spock was careful with his answer, and hid the sparkle in his eyes. "He goes by the alias 'Prime.'"

"Prime," she repeated, "easy enough to remember."

He turned back to the mountainside. "Take my hand. This ascent will require an elevated amount of endurance."

I expect a big cookie when we get there, she joked silently. She took his hand and he assisted her as the ground became less horizontal. Muscles in her legs woke with a start, as some had not been used until this moment. Ignoring their protests, she scaled the inclined rocks with determined energy and steady breathing, maintaining a firm grip on her instrument case. The water break had been a help. It was not long before the climb brought them to a door hidden within a large indentation on the mountain.

Surveying the tall brown door, she aimed to relax the exercised heart pounding fervently in her chest. "We're here?"

"This is the residence of Prime," he confirmed.

"How far from home are we?" She looked behind her, trying to see if she recognized any of the natural sites around her. She did not.

"Altogether, we have travelled approximately thirty miles. Making part of the journey on foot gave you a chance to familiarize yourself with landmarks and how to locate this dwelling. Should there be essential times, you will know where to go."

She smiled. "Good idea. Thanks, Spock."

He nodded, then proceeded not to ring the chime on the doorframe, but to activate the retinal scan next to it. Lauren's brow furrowed as a thin red laser beam skimmed his eyes. Those were reserved for the owners of residences. Why was he using the device?

"What are you…?"

The scan chimed, recognizing him, and the door slid open smoothly. He looked at her, almost confidently. "Follow me."

They entered, and it took a moment for Lauren's eyes to adjust to the sudden dimness that invaded her sight. Inside, it was even more cavernous than their home. Modestly furnished, but with more wall decorations than she had expected. Paintings and various sculptures had been placed about, evidently representatives of different cultures. To her, it showed a person who must be well-versed in societies found across the universe. Not characteristically Vulcan. Still, it had a comfortable aura within its walls, but she could not put her finger on why. Pushing back her scarf, she glanced around, finally able to see clearly, searching for signs of the one called Prime. She found none.

"Is he here?"

"Tranush," Spock said the Vulcan word for patience. Her ears perked at the word, and she understood. Automatically taking his hand again, the two stepped further into the home, examining everything around them. There was a sizable computer system on the far side of one wall, and from what Lauren could gather, it contained very advanced forms of technology. Was this Elder connected to the Vulcan Science Academy?

Beside her, Spock called out in Vulcan, gentle but strong. Only a few seconds later, there was a reply in the same language, echoing off the earthen walls. They paused, waiting. Soon after, a hooded figure appeared from one of the far rooms, and approached them with measured steps. No rush. Lauren held her breath, and guessed this was the Elder Prime. When he was eventually a few feet away, he halted.

And waited. Silently. Such a long silence, and Lauren wondered if anyone was going to speak.

Finally, Spock raised his hand to give the Vulcan salute, and Lauren followed suit. The Elder responded in kind, withered fingers parting into the v-shaped greeting. Her cousin uttered words to the still-hooded individual, and Lauren could translate only a few of them. This was not what she concentrated on, though. In truth, she was trying to see what Prime looked like under the hood. When Spock had finished, she thought she noticed the Elder stiffen. The host turned to her, and finally pulled back his hood. What she saw was a very aged Vulcan, deep lines fleeting all around his wise face, head crowned with hairs of white and silver. He appeared to be one who had seen a great and known a great deal in his life. Elder Prime. But when she saw him, it was odd, and she stiffened. Almost a remarkable sensation of déjà vu.

And then, Prime spoke. "Lauren Grayson-Reed," he said, causing her to balk. How had he known her name? "Fascinating. Never would I have anticipated seeing you so far from Earth at this age. Fate certainly has mysterious destinations for us all."

Her eyes were thoroughly confused at the statement. She had not heard Spock mention her name in the few Vulcan words they had exchanged. "I guess Spock sent a transmission telling you I was coming."

He raised an eyebrow in an eerily familiar manner. "No, he did not. I have not spoken to Spock for many months."

At her side, Spock remained quiet. Nothing appeared to bother him. She drew closer to him. There was an unsettled sensation in her stomach, but not one of warning. "Oh…then how do you—?"

He went on. "Welcome to my home. I am pleased to see you again, and often regretted not taking time to visit with you in your adult years. It is good to see that your practice of the Vulcan salute was still present in this time frame."

She blinked numerous times. Something in his facial features…and his dark brown eyes…and his voice…When he spoke, she felt drawn to him, a thought that temporarily frightened her. "Do I know you?"

His eyes twinkled. "For much of my adolescence, I considered you my closest friend, Cousin Lauren."

It was all it took. Her eyes bulged as wide as they possibly could, and she thought they might pop out of her head. No one ever called her by that pet-name, no one except…

She turned to look at Spock, whose neutral gaze remained on the Elder. Her chin quivered. "H-how does he…?"

Disengaging himself from her side, he strode over to Prime, standing next to him. "'When you eliminate the impossible,'" he began the memorable quote from Sir Arthur Conan Doyle.

Lauren's eyes darted back and forth between Spock and Prime. The noses; the curves of the cheeks; the eyes; the ears; the way they angled their heads; their matched heights; their use of the word 'fascinating'; the voices. All of them varied from their counterparts, but still…Lower jaw dropping, comprehension dawned on her. At least, she hoped it was comprehension. Suddenly, the reason for Sarek not being allowed to come became clear. She was looking at two versions of…

The violin case fell from her hand, hitting the floor with a dull thud. Oh God, it was true. She turned to Prime, her voice dropping to a squeaking whisper. "S-Spock?"

Closing his eyes, he gave a slow nod of affirmation. "Eliminating the impossible is not an easy task to undertake. However, you've always had quite an open mind, child. I am hoping you will lend us that openness now."

She could only gawk at him. What else could she really do in that moment? No wonder the retinal scan had granted Spock access. She was staring slack-jawed at the much older version of her cousin, who stood at his side. An odd way of looking into one's future. "H-how…?" She attempted lamely.

The younger copy spoke. "I realize this is much to accept, as you have lived on Vulcan II for a short period of time. Nevertheless, I wanted to make you aware of a place where you would always be accepted." He regarded the bewildered expression on her face.

"The news that you are residing here," Prime interjected, "comes as an unexpected turn of events for me, as well. It seems we have both received surprises on this day."

"There is an explanation to this, Lauren," the younger Spock offered, "so long as you are willing to listen."

Dumbfounded by the entire situation, Lauren stared at the pair in front of her. It was like looking at a set of mismatched twins, separated by untold decades. Eventually, her shoulders sagged in an indication of mental defeat. "I'm going to coin a very tired phrase: this is not logical."

The proclamation made both Spocks give identical, subtle smiles.

Hours passed, unnoticed by any in Prime's residence. A third mind-meld was not recommended. Sitting in the parlor, Spock explained the two that had been performed on Lauren in the past week, and Spock Prime concurred. It could cause an emotional overload that none of them wanted to harm her brain with. Instead, both took turns, patiently and carefully verbalizing the chain of events that brought Ambassador Spock back through time over one-hundred thirty years.

Thankfully, Lauren had been well-versed on the topic, being that the Narada incident was well documented in Starfleet's records. Back home, her parents had also discussed the occurrence at length. This additional information was not as complex as she initially thought. But none of her research or other sources had yielded any information on Spock Prime living in the here and now. Unbeknownst to her, he had inhabited this planet for the past two years, along with the surviving Vulcan population. Sipping at the herbal tea Spock Prime had prepared, Lauren's attention never wavered from him. The synopsis of his experiences was intriguing. Part of her did not dare to believe, despite the physical evidence before her. But, she had to admit, everything he said made sense.

Taking a breath when he finished, she sat back and exhaled. God, it is him. "Spock," she echoed at him for the fourth time. "Ambassador Spock."

Spock Prime had to confess to himself how enjoyable it was to be with his quietly attentive cousin again, where he did most of the talking, and she, most of the listening.

She glanced at the younger Spock. "You've got quite a future ahead of you."

The corners of his mouth twitched. "In another life, Lauren, but perhaps some details are meant to occur. The idea of taking an ambassadorial position does fascinate me."

She smiled. "I'll bet."

Spock Prime was secretly fond of the closeness they so freely displayed. Distant memories he was being allowed to witness all over again. How he missed this…"The years apart have been numerous, Lauren, but I frequently had thoughts of you, no matter where my path took me. Credit is to be shared with Mother, who so often spoke highly of you. I feel as though I am receiving a second chance to correct this portion of my life."

Spock regarded this admission with an arched brow. In the future, there had been little visitation between them? How could he have ever been apart from his cousin for extended periods? Very different circumstances, he reminded himself…and Mother was alive in that time. Many things were different.

Too distracted to really appreciate what he was currently saying, Lauren thought about the founding of the new Vulcan colony. "You're the Federation officer…the one that recommended this planet for the Vulcans, aren't you?"

"Indeed. Very astute," he complimented.

"Why doesn't anybody else know about you?"

"I found it best to maintain a low profile for the benefit of my younger self. Two Spocks being seen at the same time would trigger an unending series of questions, and I would rather not subject myself to that."

Pondering on this phrase, Spock recognized the double meaning, the mild attempt at humor, and smiled.

"But you're part of the Federation," Lauren pressed, the joke lost on her, "so you must be in contact with them, right?"

"Yes. In this time—your time—I made connections with Federation science departments, and it is they who help to keep my existence a guarded secret. I have interacted with them periodically. We do not meet on this planet, and never will, as I have seen to this. I travel to various locations in order to discuss matters and missions with them."

"So, what's your role in the Federation now?"

He smiled ever so gently. "You still ask pertinent questions. I continue my ambassadorial duties under the pseudonym Prime, and act as a diplomatic representative of peace to new worlds. My ultimate goal is to form alliances, with the intention of joining these worlds into the United Federation of Planets. My work is completed to the satisfaction of my colleagues." He glanced between Spock and Lauren, eyes growing a touch sad. "Along with this, there is much wisdom I have gained in recent years that ought to be shared with others. It is the least I can do for your universe."

Her ears picked up his tone. It was regretful wisdom he retained, and she felt her heart sadden, too.

But he blinked and regained composure. "I suppose we should move on to other issues, such as you, Cousin Lauren." It was strange to hear someone besides Spock say this name.

Wait, he is Spock, she thought. Another Spock, anyway, but…Oh heck, never mind.

"Tell me, what has brought you to Vulcan II on a permanent basis?"

On her own, Lauren explained everything about her parents' deaths, the explosion that had claimed their lives, the feeling of helplessness she had experienced, and to some extent, still experienced, Sarek becoming her legal guardian, their wonderful reunion when he retrieved her from Starfleet, and her arrival to her new home: this planet, and the desire to find a haven for her to run to, should events require it.

When she finally silenced, he shook his ancient head sorrowfully. "Curious turn of events. Even more curious to see you in a Vulcan world, living with our father." He looked to Spock. "I commend him for his actions. This would have been interesting to see." Spock nodded, more turbulent thoughts churning beneath his heart. "In response to your request for needing a sanctuary, I am more than willing to comply. I will do anything in my ability to shield her from danger."

Spock was grateful.

Spock Prime returned attention to Lauren. "Your parents' losses are regretful, and I offer my sympathies."

Don't ask it, don't ask it, she ordered herself, don't ask it, don't…You're an idiot. "Were they still alive? In your time?"

He chose to be honest and forthright. "Yes." An invisible knife of pain stabbed her heart. She winced momentarily. "You always were a loving family, devoted to one another and to relatives beyond your nucleus. You and I were the most solid example of this, Lauren." She smiled, content to know at least, somewhere in time, her parents had lived, and they were still close. "After you completed primary schooling," Spock Prime went on, "you followed in your parents' footsteps, enlisting into Starfleet's chemistry division. Together, you worked collaboratively to develop various forms of cleaner starship fuels, eventually resulting in a formula that was pollutant-free. A remarkable discovery, to put it modestly, which would one day be used to fuel every starship in Starfleet. All of you were recognized for your works. Your parents were very proud of your accomplishments, and proud of the person you became."

And who did I become? She wondered. Her mouth shifted into a small frown as she pondered on something else. "Did the Narada incident change what happened in my parents' lives?"

It was his turn to wince, and she saw his shoulders droop visibly. "I would not rule it out."

Now she felt guilty about probing for answers about her parents, and chose to drop the subject. "Okay, I know you're from a different future, but it was a future." That didn't sound right, she thought. Oh well; he gets me. "So tell me a few things. You said you hadn't seen me in a long time," a thought she wanted to deny. "When did we see each other last?"

His face was glowing warmly. "Our last reunion took place when you were twenty-six years of age, when I attended your wedding ceremony on Earth."

She nearly spat out the tea she was drinking, stifling a cough when some had caught in her throat. "I got married?"

"Is it all that unbelievable, Lauren?" Spock asked, despite the tiniest inkling of protectiveness itching in his mind. He felt would need to approve of anyone who intended to join with his cousin.

Spock Prime new exactly what his younger form was thinking, but only smiled. "Your ceremony was modest, and Vulcans do not place tremendous emphases on appearances, but I can say with great conviction that you made a beautiful bride."

She shook her head in amazement. "Not to press my luck, but who was my husband?" It was odd saying that…

"You became the wife of Lieutenant Commander Jason Meyers." Her eyes went wide, exposing most of the whites. Spock Prime raised an eyebrow. "Judging by your reaction, I suspect you are acquainted with the name."

"Yeah, I know him. Met him at Starfleet in San Francisco a few weeks back," she muttered, blushing. "He's a cadet there right now."

"Ah. He has a promising career ahead of him."

It was almost absurd, since the young man had essentially been her babysitter at Starfleet for those few weeks. He was a handsome person, but married to him? Weird, weird, weird. How had that happened? It was not something she could fathom at fourteen. She shifted her shoulders uncertainly, unable to shake her wandering mind. "Were we a good couple?"

"It was a decent match, and you loved one another deeply. You went on to accompany him on the USS Artemis for eight years, and later settled down on Earth, where you raised your two children."

Had she been drinking, she would have nearly choked a second time. "I had children?"

"Yes. A son and a daughter, whom you named Corey and Marian, respectively. You sent my family several pictures of them both, wanting me to know that I had more human relatives in the universe."

She half-smiled knowingly. "I named my daughter Marian?"

He did not miss a beat. "Your affection for the tale of Robin Hood did not wane as you matured." She had to laugh. "With your son, you honored me and our relationship by calling him Corey Spock Meyers. Though we had grown apart over the years, you still held onto the memories we once had together."

She was touched by this.

"Following your wedding, I devoted my time to my work in Starfleet, and never saw you again. We did maintain contact through transmissions, but there was an emptiness I could not explain as years went by. I know now that I was missing you terribly, and I should have made more of an effort to see you and your young ones. It was comforting to know part of you was being passed down through history."

Her lips pursed in a tight smile, thinking there was more to his story than what he was saying. But she simply shook her head. "I um…I can't see myself marrying Meyers."

He angled his head. "Your fate now is not tied to the fate of an alternate future. All things have changed as a result of my interference, another aspect you and Spock now share." The young cousins locked eyes. "I am gradually learning how such interference has had a damaging effect on those who are important to me..." He trailed off, frowning.

Lauren glanced back at him, knowing he was ruing the losses of Jonathan and Sarah, claiming the brunt of responsibility, ruing the "damage" he had imposed on her. She wanted to say something reassuring, started to do so, but Spock Prime was speaking first. "Do not let what I have revealed to you dictate the courses you will take in life. I ask this of you; I ask you to create your own destiny, Lauren, one that will be uniquely yours."

Her smile was as lovely as his advice, and she gave a nod. "I can do that, Spock." They would be able to talk more at length about this later. There was a later for them now.

He took her left hand, and she did not shy away. His grasp was very, very familiar. Then he turned to his past self. "Promise yourself something, Spock. Don't be like me and allow yourself to lose the relationship you have with Lauren. You will always care about her; I assure you of this. I let this precious child slip away from me, and I have not recovered from it." He touched the back of a finger to her jaw line. "To grow apart from her will have more of a devastating consequence than you can anticipate. She loves you, and is unashamed of expressing it. Keep her in your heart."

Spock also did not miss a beat. "This I can promise assuredly."

"So can I," Lauren piped up, smiling at him.

Spock Prime's chest filled with restrained jubilation, making his eyes appear bright. It was the one promise he wanted to hear. "I trust you will not limit further visitations merely to moments of despair, Lauren?"

"Absolutely not!" She proclaimed. "You think I can ignore you while I'm here? You might be seeing more of me than you want to."

"Do not stir Father's suspicions, though," Spock reminded her. "It is best that we are the only ones on the planet who know of his existence."

She knew he was right. "I know, and I'll be careful. How about once a month?" She asked Spock Prime.

He seemed adoring of her reply. "I may be able to cope with you frequenting my residence, if it means re-establishing my bond with you." Turning her hand over, he examined the palm, stroking at the hardened calluses at the fingertips. "I am relieved to see that at least one thing has remained constant across parallels. Your continuous practice of the violin." He smiled, hopeful. "Before you take your leave of me this evening, would you grace me with a performance?"

She looked at her hand, at Spock, and back at Spock Prime. How could she deny the audience of her cousin, both past and present? This would also allow her to play for Spock, who had mentioned her violin earlier in the day. Standing, she went to retrieve the instrument.

It took several minutes to prepare and tune her violin, turning the modified pegs to tighten the strings, tapping fingers against them to warm up, double checking to see if the bow hairs were tightened and held the proper amount of moisture. Sarek had been the one who altered her case in order to preserve the instrument, and it turned out to be a success. The Spocks murmured to each other, discussing her ambitions for the academies, and her skills in music and their enjoyment of it. When she was prepped, she faced the seated pair, raising her bow. "Anything specific you guys want to hear?"

Spock Prime tapped a finger to his chin. "In the wake of experiences for us all, I suggest something triumphant."

"Yes," Spock said, "please do."

A grin broke across her mouth. "Computer," the system chimed in response, "locate and play 'Sophia,' by The Cruxshadows." Neither was surprised by her choice of musical artist. It had always been her favorite band; they had violinists of their own she admired. Placing the violin beneath her chin, she said, "This one's for you, Spock."

The computer system began the song, which had a dark, eerie nature to it. It caught them off-guard. But as it continued, they listened closely to the lyrics that accompanied music:

"When life has left behind this isolation, cruelty and hatred have become/

The cause of those whose eyes are full of wanting, the truth will still abandon them/

So you must carry this light into the darkness, you shall be a star unto the night/

You will find hope alive among the hopeless, that is your purpose to this life…"

And then, she began to play along, running the bow over the strings in graceful, practiced strokes. What had started as morose and dire had taken a sharp turn, and the music became heavier, rapid, more powerful. Not unpleasant at all, but encouraging. This was punctuated by the glorious notes flooding from Lauren's violin, her confident step with the beat, and the soft smile marking her lips the whole time. She was passionate about what she played.

Usually, a violinist from Earth practiced the classic works from historical human figures. Spock was familiar with most of the obvious choices: Tchaikovsky, Mozart, Bach, Beethoven, Paganini, just to name a few famous human examples. However, Lauren was an exception. Her first love was not the classics. Both Spocks had known this. Instead, she opted to play along with songs from this group in particular. She enjoyed mimicking the imaginative melodies they created. Spock had to admit the music was…interesting. Strangely beautiful. Not anything he would have expected. The lyrics were also well written, speaking of myths, legends and lore from various cultures on Earth. There was depth to what they expressed. In truth, he approved of her taste in music. Much of the time, she would improvise her own notes into the music, where no violin was being played. It showed how far her gift for manipulating the instrument could extend.

"Stand up when no one else is willing, act not in hatred or in spite/

Be to this world as a perfect knight, even if it means your life…"

It was perfectly fitting, and just what they needed to hear.

Spock was proud of his beloved cousin, and was satisfied to receive this show of her talent before his eminent departure. In the seat next to him, he saw Spock Prime listening as intently as he did, hands joined in front of his face reverently. Examining his counterpart as she played on, he saw his eyes were shimmering with…tears. Unshed tears. Something had strongly struck him. Lauren was unaware, but he would not draw attention to him. He leaned towards him, concerned. "Are you troubled?"

The elder turned to him and smiled. "No; I'm happy."