Of Romulans And Warrior Kings.
Chapter Eleven
High Noon
The very next day Dr. Price contacted Spock,
"We have met and have taken into consideration Cadet Uhura's sensitivity on the subject of public recognition in regard to her discovery. The book will be placed in a secure location, known to just a few and a moratorium has been set that is well past the date of her graduation."
Be assured that the Cadet's records will show her outstanding abilities in the area of intense research. From what I was able to observe, it will just add to her already long list of accolades. Would you be so kind as to advise the cadet of our decision?"
Spock immediately entered Nyota's contact code and advised her of the decision. He was not present to see the pleased look on her face and her contented sigh
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It had been Spock's idea, but it was Pike who 'made it so'. Both parties had attempted to determine what kind of compensation should be offered to the Uhura family that would foster their acceptance of her extended absence after graduation for the five year mission of the Enterprise. Pike wanted the best for his ship and he already knew that Nyota would be invaluable on the bridge and serve with great proficiency as Chief Communication's Officer. He already had his first officer and science officer-Spock. With Uhura's placement, he would only have to worry about two other bridge posts. That was pretty good considering he had four years to make those choices.
Pike was an observer of people and was already aware of Spock's attention toward the young woman. He would make it his business to caution him, but he would not prevent any blossoming affection because Spock needed to have a personal life. And oh, they made the most beautiful couple he had ever seen. Heads turned wherever the two of them went. It was almost the perfect example of the Vulcan concept of Infinite Diversity, Infinite Combination. His paleness against her deep mahogany skin, his logic against her emotions, his height, her petite presence…They were perfectly matched, even if, at this point caution must be the guiding factor.
Pike was not available to make the trip to Africa, but Spock would make a perfect negotiator. He would tutor him on the finer parts of this art and toss him into the ring. He had not taken into consideration Spock's parentage. None-the-less he had no doubt of Spock's abilities, his powers of observation, persuasion and his latent charm. He entered his message to Spock and downloaded it to his personal messages.
Spock met Pike in his office and as the two of them compared notes they made certain determinations in unison. One fact they both agreed on, the Uhuras would benefit from contact and association with the Federation and Star Fleet. According to Nyota, they were interested in expanding their base to reach out not only from their continent, but from their planet. So, their being used in some capacity by either of those two entities, would add to their sphere of influences, granting them additional powers to bargain, price, ship and advertise their products and services. With this information under his belt, Spock prepared for transport to Nairobi, the capitol of Kenya, United States of Africa.
The day for the trip arrived and efficient as usual he arrived at the transporter room exactly on time. This room, at Star Fleet, was a gleaming, sparkling display of efficiency. He headed for the south terminal and within minutes his trip was verified. He had just a few minutes wait and as he materialized at the end of his trip he was welcomed by name and was escorted through the mingling crowd to the exit doors. Awaiting him was a luxury vehicle, the driver waited for him by the rear door, which he opened. As Spock bent to enter he looked into the handsome visage he had seen on the hologram, Benjamin Uhura's and there was a smile on his face..
"Welcome Mr. Spock. Welcome to Nairobi."
Fortunately, Benjamin Uhura had seated himself at the opposite end of the seat, there would be no physical contact between the two of them. Already Spock sensed the welcome he had received was genuine. As he observed his host's face he searched for any resemblance between him and his daughter, but due to the tinted glass, and thus the relatively dim light, he was unable to do so.
Spock settled into the seat, Benjamin smiled at him and then Spock heard, in flawless Vulcan, kah-if rom sariahki (It is good you (have) come). Already Spock felt his trip was going to meet with great success. He believed that he and his host would ultimately understand one another.
The trip was a bit long but eventually the vehicle slowed down as it reached a beautiful house overlooking the shores of Lake Kisumu. Mr. Uhura exited the vehicle and stood by Spock's door. As Spock exited Benjamin assured him that everyone in the house, family and staff were aware that they should not touch him under any circumstance. Benjamin led him inside and a servant ushered them into a very specious office. Mr. Uhura spoke,
"Please sir, have a seat, cold drinks will be arriving shortly. I want to let you know you are welcome to spend as much time as you wish here. View this home as your own."
Spock acknowledged his statement with a nod. He then stated,
"Your hospitality is most welcome."
Before they could continue their conversation there was a light rap on the door and a woman, actually the second most beautiful he had ever seen, entered the room carrying a tray of beverages. Spock now knew Nyota was in her mother's image. The only observable difference was Nyota's mother's hair was brown and she wore it in one long braid down her back. She too addressed Spock in flawless Vulcan.
Smiling a smile so like her daughter's she said,
"Welcome to our home, Lieutenant Commander. We are honored by your presence."
She then asked,
"Please, advise us, how is our daughter?"
"Your daughter is quite well. She has excelled in every academic challenge introduced to her. I presently am her instructor for two courses and she serves as my assistant, and is a part of the Academy's choral. She receives praise from all."
Both parents nodded, and Mrs. Uhura continued,
"We are pleased. She had informed us of her varied endeavors. Now if you will excuse me, I must supervise dinner's final stages. We too are vegetarians, so there will be no problem.."
With those words she bowed her head and left the men.
Mr. Uhura now stood and stated,
"Captain Pike has advised us of the purpose of your visit. Our family has discussed this matter in depth. While your offer is really enticing, you should remember that I am a graduate of The Academy. My loyalty is still very much attached to Star Fleet. We offer Nyota willingly to serve the Fleet in whatever capacity she will prove herself worthy, and for any length of time deemed necessary. Sir, this is our family's decision, there is no need for discussion or negotiation. Now please, let me show you a room where you can refresh yourself. There are garments there of various sizes if you wish to take off your uniform. You are more than welcome to relax."
Spock nodded, "Your offer is quite welcome. I will contact Captain Pike and advise him of your decision and of mine to stay here for a day or two. Again I wish to thank you."
Benjamin Uhura led the way up the stairs and directed Spock to his room. They both nodded, all the acknowledgement needed for two men who understood the Vulcan Way.
Spock entered and was immediately taken aback by the beautiful scene before him, It was not the furnishings or accessories of the room that were amazing, it was the scene outside the windows of this room. To the left was a panorama of the shores of Lake Kisumu, an offshoot of Lake Victoria. To the left was a view of Mount Kenya with its snow capped peaks and surrounding arid land. Spock made a mental note to ask about the possibility of a closer look at both sites.
There was a large bed in the center of the room, and several chairs. The chests of drawers were inside a closet, out of sight. Spock retrieved his PADD and advised Pike of the two decisions, one with regards to the cadet, the other with regards to himself. Returning the PADD to its place, he put his duffel bag in that closet. The other closet was filled with numerous garments for use by any guest. Spock noted that what was hanging there were tunics and pants and he selected a set and removed them from the closet.
When the garments were lain on the bed his eyes were drawn to the embroidery on the sleeve. He could not believe his eyes and so he picked up the tunic and examined it more carefully. He had not been mistaken, the design was singular-it was the emblem of the Romulan Star Empire, in green, blue and gray colors, similar to outstretched wings with a distinct design of a passion lily on the left and right, in back was a downward triangle in gray with Romulan writing on its broad end. Spock sat down on the bed, holding the garment in his hand, completely clueless as to how such a discovery could be made in this tiny corner of this vast continent. He would attempt to get answers, after the meal.
Spock was shown into a dining area that was palatial, with a private seating area to the side. He recognized all the male adult faces that were seated. These were Benjamin Unura's sons and their wives and children. He was genuinely welcomed and in turn the Uhura men stood and initiated the same bowed head acknowledgement that he had seen in their sister. They then introduced their wives and children. The youngsters were then scurried away by adults and Benjamin led the way to the table. There were place cards at every setting and Spock readily saw he was seated to the left of his host, facing his wife.
After everyone was settled, Mr. Uhura blessed the table. Soft music started playing and a seemingly endless stream of dishes made their way to the table.
His host gestured and said, "As our guest Mr. Spock, would you please start the passing of the food."
With that, Spock lifted the lid of the dish before him and was welcomed by the spicy aroma of curry. He helped himself to that dish and passed it down. Then placed in front of him was a large tureen filed with wild rice. The vegetable dishes were varied, colorful and as he found out exceptionally tasty.
As he was just about to place another morsel of food into his mouth, his head shot up. He could not believe his ears. The music he was hearing was using the Vulcan scale and the piece that was playing was a pre-Surak love song. His mind was awash with questions. How could all these coincidences be impacted in this one small place. There had to be a logical reason for these enigmas, the style of dress, the Romulan Star Empire shield, the music… His foremost question was How? His second, When?
Benjamin Uhura observed his guest carefully. He noted his reaction to the music and thought to himself that perhaps, this evening, he should have given more careful thought to his choice of entertainment. He was sure that although the Vulcan's face betrayed nothing of the racing of his mind, an evening of questions was in order. Providence must have known that Benjamin would need all those many years he had lived on Vulcan in order to face what was ahead.
After the meal the families stayed just a bit longer. The very reasonable cause for the departure was that the children had been brought to their grandfather's house with the express purpose of meeting Mr. Spock, a noted instructor from Star Fleet Academy. But, due to their ages, all of the boys were in school, their bedtime was to soon be upon them. Before that could occur, the families wished the guest a safe return home and asked him to please give their regards and affection to their sister, Nyota. Spock graciously agreed and after the children kissed both grandparents good-night they voiced their pleasure of meeting the family guest. And then the room was suddenly silent.
M'mumba Uhura eyed her husband. She then said to the guest,
"We hope that we haven't tired you out, Mr. Spock."
"No, Mrs. Uhura, I am not fatigued. I want to let you know that I thoroughly enjoyed the entire meal. I am especially fond of the food that looked like the Terran fruit bananas, but they were much larger and had been cooked. May I inquire what is the name of that fruit, or is it a vegetable?"
She responded, "It is a fruit, however it is served as a vegetable, either fried or boiled and mashed with either palm oil or if it is available, coconut oil. It is one of my favorites also. Its name is plantain"
She then proceeded,
"I will leave you two to your scientific talk and I will check to determine that everything has been put away properly. Mr. Spock are you an early riser?"
His reply was, "I require very little sleep, so yes, I am."
"So that you aware, the kettle is put up to boil early in the morning so feel free to come to the kitchen and make yourself tea."
"Thank your Mrs. Uhura, that is most useful information. Should I bid you good night?"
"Yes, I think that once all the tasks are finished, the only thing I will be fit for will be a bed, a pillow, and a light blanket."
She turned to her husband and planted a loving kiss on the top of his head, nodded at Spock and left to tend to her wifely duties.
Spock marveled at how alike mother and daughter were, both graceful, their walk was as if they floated on air, both of them almost indescribably beautiful, but very unassuming as to the effect their physical appearance could have on others. Forgetting there is an audience of one, Benjamin Uhura's eyes followed his wife out of the room, and then a bit embarrassed by this display he said, "She is my real treasure."