A second chance

by Starflight1701

After delivering his speech on the 1. commemoration day Kirk never thought that he would face his defeated nemesis again. Now Khan is right in front of him to take vengeance. But fate has its own plans. In the middle of the upcoming war between the Federation and the Klingons both men find themselves thrown into a whirl of dangerous passion that can destroy them... Kirk/Khan Slash

20. Chapter 20 - Sleep, lover til Sunrise w

Hi, my dear readers!

Almost at time one week later you get now the next update. As promised there will be more sensual, sweet, sexy and funny scenes with our two 'boys', Spock gets more and more suspicious because of the whole situations around him and you're going to meet an old 'acquaintance'.

Thank you so much for your feedbacks; I am still so happy that you're loving this story so much.

Have fun with the new chapter,

Love

Yours Starflight

Chapter 20 – Sleep, lover; til Sunrise wakes us

Wakefulness occurs languidly, gently as multiple neurotransmitters dance through the midbrain, the hypothalamus, the thalamus, and the basal forebrain. Eugenic scientists saw this slow dance as an inefficiency to overcome in their progeny. An Augment, of course, takes the same path to awakening as any human, but they are better, more efficient. The dance through systems occurs in the blink of an eye. Usually. There are exceptions. When James Kirk is a variable, he creates exceptions. In other words, Kirk is the exception to the rule.

Khan floated from indulgent somnolence to the land of the living in pleasant languor. He felt the blanket of his lover, his variable. And with a contented sigh, he tightened his hold around the firm, warm body of Jim Kirk, who still lay sprawled over him. The super-human smiled as he followed memory's thread back to the night's intimacies that swelled with the heat of desperation and long suppressed desire. Now, as those flames finally mollified, he was – for once – simply at peace. And he wrapped that peace and around him as tightly as he held his mate.

'My mate…'

He could deny it no more than he could deny the ever expanding universe. James Kirk was his mate in blood, heart, and soul, and he would do anything to keep him safe and – hopefully – by his side. Khan knew the latter was an illusion. His past – both of his pasts – would force their separation sooner or later, but he found himself uncharacteristically clinging to a foolish spark of hope that maybe there were indeed miracles in the world, and one might befriend him – them.

Jim stirred, and Khan realized that he and James were adhered just a bit here and slippery just a bit there. He heaved a sigh, gently rolled Jim onto his side and disentangled himself from Jim's sleep-heavy limbs to make his way to the bathroom. Not wanting his lover to wake to an empty bed, he quickly wet a cloth with warm water, cleaned himself and returned to the bed with another warmed cloth. He deftly and ever so gently cleaned his beloved from chest to belly then down through blond curls, so carefully over the cock. Sleeping Kirk seemingly enjoying these ministrations; he opened his legs, and Khan took that as an opportunity to swipe gently between cheeks and over a none-too-abused entrance.

That woke his dear captain who let out a hiss, "Wha's 'sis?"

Nien cocked one brow, amused. He recognized his beloved's query despite his foggy mind and heavy tongue.

"Everything is all right, James," he whispered as he propped himself on one elbow near Kirk's head. He stroked gently through the shock of tousled blond hair, dropped the cloth to the floor and pulled the (relatively) cleanest part of the blanket to cover them both. "Go back to sleep. There are several hours until sunrise."

Jim mumbled again and replied with a crooked grin, "Sunrise woke me up." Then he frowned and groaned.

"What is it?" the Augment asked.

"Mmmm, my ass burns …" Kirk lifted his head, and the look in his eyes conveyed that he was fully awake now. "Did we…?" he began, before a broad grin spread over his sleep-softened features. "Yeah, we did!" He answered his own question and glanced positively gleeful at the amused Augment. Jim stretched and hooked a leg behind Khan's knee to pull him closer; then he kissed his lover with deep affection – the gesture gratifyingly returned.

Holding his James as close as he dared without hurting him, Khan allowed himself time, a rare gift, to savor the sight of his mate – Alas how this word made his heart flutter! He touched and stroked, carefully caressed and fondled the younger man's body, mentally cataloging and checking injuries – pleased that none had been aggravated. And only then settled in to enjoy the lazy semi-battle of tongue and mouth, and teeth on jaw and throat.

Long minutes passed ensconced in peace and quiet; defenses down – each safe in one another's presence. Hands roamed and stoked but no more than that. Even as passion simmered under the surface, just now they were content with exchanging tender caresses and sweet, long kisses, until the pre-dawn hour and weariness overwhelmed Jim once more. Khan was not aware of his own smile; he watched the boyish officer fall asleep – snuggled against him with one arm securely slung around Nien's waist.

Jim's breaths became calmer and deeper, warm against Khan's neck as the young man tucked himself under the Augment's chin. Nien closed his eyes and breathed Kirk's scent in deeply, burying his nose in blond hair; dotting kisses. It was balm and helped to chase away niggling thoughts; their inevitable separation. Instead, he focused on his partner's body language. Bared and open; defenseless and vulnerable in sleep, Kirk unknowingly (or did he) demonstrated trust and closeness. He showed the super-human, this ruler of nations long past, where he belonged – in this place and time – with his captain. And that likewise – his captain belonged to him. Come what may (and it would come), they were together, now.

Pressing another gentle kiss to his lover's forehead, the former dictator relaxed and closed his eyes; wishing with all his heart that it could be like this forever – well, like this, and with his family safe.

But the phantoms of the past and war crept closer to the slumbering lovers …

ST***ST***ST

Spock stepped into the quarters he shared with Uhura. The alpha shift had ended four hours ago, still the Vulcan remained on the bridge to solve the riddle of the unidentified spacecraft – without success.

As the Enterprise reached the Aldebaran system, the unknown vessel had already taken a place at the space dock and a transmission between the starship and the space harbormaster's office had only revealed the busy traffic of trading vessels. Every spacecraft berthed here was authorized to do so.

Nevertheless, the first officer was suspicious of the incident. The ship had come from the direction of the former Neutral Zone. Perhaps it harbored enemy spies.

The space harbormaster had not been pleased as Spock insisted on checking the licenses of all the vessels that had arrived at Aldebaran III in the last ten hours. Only when he contacted the small outpost of Starfleet located near the spaceport was the responsible commander able to exercise his authority; Spock received the required information.

Attentively, Spock viewed the licenses, the freight documents, and the crew data, but he didn't find anything unusual. Still, he simply knew that there was more to the incident than he could see. Jim would call it a 'gut-feeling'; the first officer was confused that this human trait suddenly made its appearance. There was no logical reason to think that something was wrong with the information he received, but the whispering voice in the back of mind wouldn't let up.

And as he finally ordered the Enterprise out of orbit to continue the patrol, his inner unrest increased. Aldebaran III became smaller and smaller. With one last look at the screen, the Vulcan left the bridge, relieved by the Scott who was the third in command and changed his shift to take the con. Little did he know that his captain and friend was a mere one hundred miles beneath the Enterprise on the planet's surface – deep asleep and secure in the arms of a man regarded by all of Starfleet and the Federation as an enemy.

Uhura looked up from the sofa where she sat comfortably and laid the PADD aside. Her glance found that of her lover; it was enough to tell her all she needed to know.

"Data's clean," she stated and the Vulcan lifted a brow. "But you're still suspicious," she continued.

"How do you know?" he asked while slipping out of his uniform shirt to change into the far more comfortable Vulcan robes.

"There is this certain expression in your eyes; you're not satisfied with something. Beta shift warped us just a few minutes ago, so we are leaving the Aldebaran system. Logical conclusion: You found nothing unusual about the ship. Still you… you think there's something wrong with it, don't you?"

Spock observed her; his mouth twitched minutely, the Vulcan equivalent of a smile, then he nodded. "Your observation is correct, my dear. I checked the documents regarding the berthed vessels, their crews, and their cargos and found nothing that points to illegal activity, yet… I feel as though I overlooked something."

Nyota smiled. "Kirk would call it a 'gut-feeling'."

"Exactly," Spock nodded and closed the warm robe before he sat down on one of the two the armchairs adorning the seating area. Bracing his elbows on his thighs, he folded his hands together and pressed the tips of the index fingers against each other – a typical gesture when in deep thought.

"There is a possibility that the spacecraft held more in its cargo than goods. It came from the direction of the Klingon Empire. Commodore Wesley sent us out here to check the rumors regarding Klingon activities. The chance that there is a connection lies…" He caught Uhura's intense gaze and paused to calculate the odds. He knew that she didn't exactly appreciate his precision in private, so he continued. "The probability of Klingon involvement is high, but I see no way to investigate since we have no cause to board. The documents are correct; the crews are 'clean', as you put it. The identified cargo was official trading goods." He frowned slightly.

"Maybe everything is okay," Nyota suggested and rose to make some tea.

"Maybe – maybe not," her lover murmured before he leaned back in the armchair. The air wasn't as warm as he was used to, but it was comfortable enough for him. "It is alarming regardless."

"I know what you mean," the young Bantu woman sighed. "An outsider could be a traitor or an enemy, or both. War makes us lose trust, and that leads to misunderstandings and aggression. Assessing a situation without bias is difficult." She carried a tray with two cups full of steaming tea to the small living room. The long dark green kaftan she wore played elegantly around her legs. As she placed the dishes on the table, she observed the Vulcan. Strangers would call his expression stoic, but she had learned to read him. "You're asking yourself, what Jim would do if he were here."

The son of Sarek son looked up at her – not for the first time surprised by her empathy without having specific empathic faculties. "As illogical as it is, pondering another's strategy when that person acts based on feeling and instinct…"

"As well as reason, discernment…," Uhura added gently. "He's been more…level-headed, I guess since the…" She pursed her lips. She hated to even think about it. "Since the warp core."

Again Spock lifted a brow; he added honey to his tea. "You are right, Nyota. Indeed, Jim has been more judicious in his decision-making, still he is quite impulsive when it comes to…others' lives." He sighed without realizing it. "Otherwise he would be here instead of a place we do not know and where we cannot reach him directly."

Taking her seat near him again, Uhura bent forwards and laid one slender hand on his shoulder. "I don't think that will ever change about him. And it's saved every single one of us. I yell at him, but he wouldn't be…Jim if he was any other way." She sighed, "You're still worried about him," she stated and met his undefinable gaze.

"Worry is an emotion that…" He shut his mouth as Nyota merely looked at him with knowing eyes; he finally admitted softly, "You are right as you often are. I am still concerned for him. Yes, he has been rescued; The Shadow brought him to a place where he can recover, and this Sunrise is with him. It is this close connection to the captain that he has. It makes me – uncertain, wary. Jim has told me much about his family – or lack thereof. About his brother and sister-in-law, his friends from earlier days and from the Academy; those not so friendly, like Sean Finnegan, an upper classmate who took a great joy in playing pranks on the younger students as well as 'bullying' them. He entrusted me with much that he has otherwise kept private, but he never mentioned a 'Sunrise'."

"Of course, 'Sunrise' is a cover, not a real name." Uhura sipped her tea. "But, let me guess, he never talked about a guy named 'Drythen' either, did he?"

The Vulcan nodded. "Exactly. Sunrise has extraordinary abilities, is well-trained – certainly in military tactics. He has a very unique combination of skill sets. Otherwise, he would not have been able to accomplish all that he has so far. Jim would have mentioned him at some point; I am sure of it."

"Maybe he wasn't allowed to? If this man was an asset, intelligence or spec ops, perhaps Jim had to keep his identity a secret – still does."

"No." Spock shook his head. "Since his contact with Sunrise via The Shadow, when he warned us of the planned attack of Tammeron, Kirk spoke freely about him, only hiding his real name. It is as if he had met this Sunrise only a short time ago. So why was this man so full of rage when he learned of Jim's capture? Why did he risk his life to rescue the captain? Even though I have little experience with emotion, I do understand that strong feelings are involved – the feelings of someone who holds another one dear."

Nyota blushed just a bit, knowingly, and put her glass back on the table. "Dear – as in a strong friendship?"

"Yes, perhaps. But a friendship like this does not emerge in only weeks or even months." Spock folded his hands again. "We missed something here – I missed something. And I have no idea what it could be."

A gentle smile played around Uhura's lips. "Maybe you should give it a rest until Kirk is back. Then you can bombard him with questions until he snaps." She winked at him and for her sake the Vulcan nodded. Still his worry remained; worry for his T'hy'la, who had an unfortunate tendency to fall into deep and troubled waters.

ST***ST***ST

Said man faced no such trouble at this moment. Slowly rousing himself from sleep, Jim felt as warm and cozy as any man anywhere ever had. Perhaps it was the air or the blanket, or maybe it was the two long arms wrapped around him. Birds chirped, and natural, golden light shimmered through his still closed eyes. He lay sprawled across a slender, muscular body; his head pillowed on a powerful chest, rising and falling; his bristly cheek rested against the Augment's silky skin. Nien's familiar scent wafted around him, and the steady heartbeat of the super-human found its echo in Jim's own pulse. He felt… home. There was no other word to describe the contentment, peace and security that covered him like a mantle.

For a long time, he simply lay there, not caring for the outside world. The stars of space forgotten for now. He felt lazy and a bit achy in certain parts of his anatomy, but in a good way; the memories of last night made Kirk smile. He relished in his serenity – in every sense and sensation around him. And with every breath that Khan drew, Jim felt practically dandled – safe, secure, and loved…

It was all so surreal, even more so hovering between sleep and wakefulness, to be snuggled up to a man who once – well twice – had tried to kill him. And then to have him transformed into a passionate, tender lover who fought for him like a tigress for her cubs. Khan cared for him as if he were the most precious thing in the world. Never had Kirk felt more precious than now.

And that wasn't all – if only it were it would be enough. There was a tugging at his heart and his soul, urging him to hold the other man tight – to shield him from harm. Though Khan was stronger than any other human, he could be injured; the past had shown that much, and Jim would do anything to safeguard Nien's heart and his body from any further harm. The man had endured so much for so long.

It was in the captain's nature to protect his loved ones and those who depended on him – no less than it was in Nien's.

Funny, his thoughts were only of Nien now. He loved his ship, his crew, and his friends dearly, but Khan…

Well, Jim didn't know what to call this thing the Augment and he had. More than lust and more than passion – that much was obvious. It ran far deeper and had for a while now. 'James, I am different…No! You're not, Noonien, and you know that – we're not. That's what this is, isn't it? That's what we are…" He remembered their last conversation before his capture like it was yesterday. He knew what he meant then, but there was so much more now, and it made him uncertain. He remembered his wish to explore space together with Nien – to have him by his side. The mere thought made his heart beat faster and filled him with joy. What did it mean? It was like his affection for his friends but compounded a hundred times over. It touched a part of his soul he had shielded for so long. Fuck! Why now and why him? This… Khan could be taken away so easily.

An inner voice whispered the answer. It said, 'Jim Kirk never did easy'. He might get scared, but he was no coward. This 'thing' between Khan and him would change so much; yet he was way past denial though; it would get him nowhere. No, it was better to face a situation than to run away from it. He learned that lesson long ago.

So, what was the situation, exactly?

'Fucked up. That's what it is,' his inner voice told him kindly, and he almost groaned when he realized the plain truth. He was trapped this time. He wanted Nien in his life – for good. The sentiment was entirely new to him. He never had a committed relationship before. Well, not counting his crew, his friends, Spock, Bones…He couldn't keep a relationship, even with his own family. A weekend with the same girl; that's as close as he ever got. So what was Khan then? Kirk might be relationship phobic (until now). But he knew what he wanted. He just couldn't believe who he wanted it with – a criminal, a fugitive, and a man responsible for the death of his beloved mentor. But that man was a hero now too. No, Kirk never did easy…

'A weekend with the same girl' Jim had been straightish – or so he thought. Jim was surprised; Khan surprised him. Sure, he could appreciate a beautiful – well, anything. The universe was vast. But he never thought desire could turn into something like this. He wasn't only attracted to Nien; he burnt for his former foe. But there was more to it, he wanted to be close to the Augment, wanted to know him better, to see and explore more of the gentler side of Khan Noonien Singh.

Nien was a fierce, dangerous man, but there were feelings in him, strong ones. Not just hate, pain, and fear. But passion, gentleness, compassion. And they were directed at Jim. In his mind, the young captain went through all that happened within the last couple of days. He remembered how the Augment cradled him in his arms in the prison on Turkana, giving him the first ray of hope for rescue. Then there was the moment they held each other for what they both thought was the last time. Khan's apology that he hadn't been able to save him still echoed in the officer's soul; the super-human had been ready to throw his own life and the safety of his family away to retrieve him. Khan put his Jim's life above his own and that of his crew.

The thought floored him. Nothing was more important to Khan than his crew; Jim was sure of it… At least, he thought he was sure of it. Now he wasn't sure of anything. His feelings or Nien's. Every time he thought he understood something, it slipped through his fingers. Like trying to grasp water in his hand.

He let his thoughts tug him back again to the moments aboard Diego's ship as the former dictator washed him, tended his injuries and comforted him after the troublesome nightmares. The gentleness – the tenderness in those blue-green eyes seemed to flow like balm through Jim.

He remembered his breakdown – so uncalled for and humiliating, still Nien had given him the feeling that there was nothing to be ashamed of. He even revealed some of his own torments, just to ease Jim's pain and shame. Nien had shown him an empathy that Kirk hadn't thought possible. He comforted him, held him, and whispered sweet things to him to sooth the anguish that had broken through.

Jim smiled at the memory of the warm baritone's murmured words. He hadn't listened too closely at the time, but somehow they came back to him, 'Oh James, I'd open you up and write my name inside of you. If only that you'd have me with you when you hurt…'

Those were the words the Augment had whispered as he cried. Khan wanted to keep him safe, to shield him from pain and danger, just like Kirk did. And this told more than anything else.

The young captain swallowed, as his pulse quickened again – not in passion but in another wave of affection. His sharp mind knew exactly what was happening to him: He was about to lose his heart!

He had always kept it protected by a thick wall made of flippancy, false bravado and denial. He never wanted to be hurt again as he had when his brother left and later his mother chose her career over him. Yet he longed to have someone with whom he could share his life with. Nien was certainly the most troublesome choice, but 'trouble' was Jim's middle name, and he would be dammed if he was going to ignore his feelings now, just because the rest of the world expected it from him.

No! He and Khan were too much alike; they shared so many experiences, walked too similar a path and they had grown far too close to each other to let rationality win. Prudence melted into nothingness when love was born and grew and…

And Jim gulped as he realized what he had thought: 'Love!'

Oh God, that's what this was, wasn't it. This tenderness, this fervor, this warmth, this security – all of it. The butterflies (was he a twelve year old girl?) in his stomach, their desire for each other and the trails of the shared blood. All of it was… What – love? Was it possible that he – James Tiberius Kirk – had finally fallen?

The answer was 'Yes'.

Love's web had caught them both and Jim didn't want to leave its shining meshes again; he was certain that Nien felt likewise. Jesus, the man had even thought about Jim's comfort in the throes of their passion as he turned and pulled Kirk atop himself to prevent any damage to the healing wounds. Nien's feelings for him ran deep and the young captain had to admit that the Augment had found a hole in the wall around his heart and had slipped into it. It was the first no-win situation that he did not want to win. And it felt wonderful!

Jim Kirk opened his eyes to his emotions and to the world.

Sunlight slipped through partially closed curtains and bathed the sleeping room in daybreak's first light. Dust danced in its rays and the chirping birds seemed sweeter all of sudden. The world was changing for the young captain – slowly but inevitably. He felt whole, happy in a way he never had before. Lifting his head, he looked at the sleeping man beside him and dared to hope that there was indeed someone for him in this universe, a soul mate. The future was uncertain – Khan's past notwithstanding – but Jim would fight for them both no matter what.

Kirk's sky-blue eyes roamed over the handsome face of the former dictator. His ebony hair fell tousled over his high forehead. The long black lashes lay like fans over high cheekbones and his sinful mouth curved into the slightest hue of a smile. His features – usually so controlled – were relaxed. He looked much younger, innocent even, and vulnerable. New protectiveness squeezed Jim and acting on impulse he craned his neck, and ever so gently kissed those well-shaped lips.

Something changed. For just a moment, there seemed to be an interruption in the steady breath of the Augment; then he stirred. For the length of a second Khan tensed – obviously feeling that he wasn't alone, and his instincts tested the situation for danger. Then Jim felt his lover smile into the kiss, and one elegant hand came up and cupped his head.

Khan slept deeply when a warm, strange sensation spread through his subconscious. Immediately, his senses recognized a second presence nearby, and his adrenal response switched on. But then he smelled the unique, sweet masculine scent that meant something… Meant family to him. Then soft fondling lips touched his – and every caution was thrown to the wind.

'Jim…' he thought; then the last remaining vestiges of sleep mingled with gladness. His fingers found the golden, short strands of the younger man on their own and he returned the kiss slowly – a kiss that ended far too soon.

"Good morning." He heard the gentle tenor and opened his eyes. The handsome face of his beloved hovered directly above him; sky-colored eyes looked tenderly down at him. He could get used to that sight at the beginning of every day.

"Good morning," he murmured back. It's been a long time since he'd been woken by someone so close to him. The last time one of his family had roused him from sleep, Kabir was shaking him; the palace was under attack. This time couldn't be more different, nor could this young man laying half on him, smiling down. Yes, this was definitely the best way to wake. "Did you sleep well?" he asked quietly, worried last night's exploits may have done Jim's healing injuries harm.

But his worry was uncalled for; Kirk nodded. "You mean after we finally fell asleep?" he teased and grinned. "Yeah, I did. You?"

Khan took a deep breath. Truth was he hadn't slept that well for what seemed an eternity. "Very well. Thank you, James." He observed the bruises on the younger man's face and lifted a brow. "How you are this morning? No – pain?"

"Ass is a bit sore, but it's been a while." Jim smirked and shrugged one shoulder. "It stings here and there, and my back hurts a bit, but I told it to shut up and maybe it'll obey; who knows," he answered humorously and winked at the Augment.

Promptly, Nien rolled his eyes and chuckled. "Your nose didn't bother to. What gives you the idea that your back would listen to you?"

"Well, a man can hope," Kirk grinned, and then turned serious again. "You were – thoughtful last night. I don't know that I would've had the presence of mind to switch positions. I appreciate it." He brushed his lips over the other man's shoulder. "Otherwise I'd have more problems than my protesting back."

A real smile brightened the Augment's face, with the affirmation that his caretaking was a welcomed endeavor. "My pleasure, Jim," he replied softly. Then his gaze found the mark on the left side of Kirk's neck. Pride and possessiveness stirred in the super-human; his fingertips ghosted over the mark clearly visible to the whole world again.

A pleasant shiver ran through Jim's body as his lover touched him. It ached, but in a good way due to the pleasant memories associated. Eyeing the twin mark at Khan's throat, Jim ran his fingers over it carefully. Nien shuddered and his ocean eyes darkened with untold emotions. Curiosity sparked in the young captain.

"This isn't a normal hickey, is it?" he asked quietly and met the calm gaze of the former dictator. "I felt it… In San Francisco and on the Enterprise even after it had healed and…"

"You felt it? For how long?" Khan interrupted him. Jim nodded slowly.

"Yes. It kind of – itched, I guess. Mostly after I thought of you; definitely after we talked." He cocked his head. "It had completely vanished, but…"

"It never vanished, James, it only became invisible. The broken vessels beneath the skin heal but…Well, it's as though you remove the source of heat from a surface, but the heat signature remains. That is what this mark is like, and it will continue to be so," Nien murmured stroking the mark on Jim's neck again; his eyes shone like stars. When he caught the confused expression of his beloved, he explained, "I didn't realize that I marked you during our first night together; it was consciously not my intention. I saw the bruise, your 'hickey', and I took it for the same." He took a deep breath. "My nature overpowered my more – rational mind."

Jim braced himself on one elbow and stared at his lover. "Marked?" he repeated. "You 'marked' me? How?"

"I am not sure; I certainly didn't know it at the time," Khan answered after a long moment of silence. His hand fell from Kirk's neck and trailed down to lazily caress the other man's hip while he thought. "Marking is not a concept unknown to humans, at least ancient humans, but I suppose today it's unheard of, isn't it? Still…" He moistened his lips. "Katie and Otto, two members of my family, fell in love and married half a year before we fled Earth. Otto told me several days after the ceremony that he and Katie had already bonded before the marriage; that they'd 'marked' each other during their lovemaking. The mark makes itself known under certain circumstances – like when you thought of me. You might feel it depending on our proximity too."

His eyes and his thoughts went far away with thoughts of his family. "Katie and Otto and I talked about it with Paolo once. He is the eldest of us all. We think that our engineered DNA affected not only our bodies and our minds, but also our nature as it applies to the purpose for our creation. For instance, the need to protect each other as well as our home, our countries and our territory is – was crucial to our survival, even if as a species, we were created sterile. We considered that our ability to mark was an extension of our engineering to protect and care for one another as well as an extension of our ability to conquer, protect, and defend our territories."

Jim listened very carefully and concentrated mainly on the facts as Khan knew them. They could talk about this 'bonding-thing' later. "They made you sterile! That's… That's barbaric!"

"Ahh, they made us that way, but if there is one thing the history of evolution has taught us it's that life will not be contained. As we understand it, our bodies repaired us of sterility. It took a decade and a half, but there you have it."

Kirk blew out a huff of air, "That's fantastic." For the moment, Kirk was more interested in the marking. "So… you think that your instinct to mark is a side-effect of your engineering?"

"Not just our instinct, but also our more base nature," Khan nodded. "In earlier times, when the human race was still young, marking was a common way to show others who belonged to whom." He frowned slightly. "Mostly it was done by branding or tattoos, depending on the culture, but there are other means."

"Until someone came up with the idea of wedding rings; that's a kind of modern mark," Kirk thought aloud; he fingered his mark again. "But this…" He pursed his lips. "In theory an Augment should only be able to mark another Augment; I wasn't engineered. Even with your blood… The blood and plasma cells have been replaced by now. So for me to have a mark – like an Augment…" He thought for a moment and chose his next words carefully. "My DNA must've changed, taken on some Augment properties after the blood transfusion and then have been continually reproduced in my cells." Kirk stopped to breathe and reflect on his own words. What it might mean for him, for them, before continuing. "The marking, your nature… This is the genesis for the link between you and your family, isn't it?"

Khan's eyes widened. "How do you know…? What gave you the idea that there is a link between us?" he asked baffled; Jim sighed.

"Well, everything about you is – more. If you have more brain activity than a non-augmented human then your empathic or telepathic abilities will surpass a human's capacity for the same; if they have any to begin with. Like twins, I guess." He smiled gently down at the quite frankly, astonished super-human. "Besides, there is so much anguish and longing in you to be with them, to protect them. It must be like someone has a piece of your soul. That's where the bond would be, I suppose. If it were anywhere."

Nien marveled at Jim's insight and intelligence. He understood his family and the bond they shared like no one ever had before – even better than the scientists who engineered them.

Jim saw the awe in Khan's eyes and was embarrassed; he lowered his gaze. "I understand that bond because I share a kind of link with Spock, too."

Nien suddenly felt as though Jim dumped a bucket of ice-water over him. His James was bonded to the Vulcan?

Kirk saw shock on lover's face; and hurt and anger. He realized what must be going through Khan's mind and quickly took steps to diffuse the situation and appease his lover. Tenderly, he cupped an alabaster cheek with his free hand. "Nien, it's not what you think. What Spock and I share is nothing like what we have."

He could see wheels turn behind Khan's eyes and felt the tension under his fingers. "Explain!"

Jim sighed. "When I was in…" he swiped his hand through the air at nothing. "…the hospital after the warp core last year. Even with your blood, I stopped recovering and started deteriorating, fast. Anyway, Spock came to visit. He told me my room was empty when I went into shock. So he performed a mind-meld on me; he shared his strength with me until Bones could get to me. Spock retreated then, but a shadow of connection remained. We only realized it later during a short mission. I got into trouble, and Spock felt it; he arrived with the cavalry just in time. We think that his half-human side fostered the mental link with another human – me in this case. We have a pretty multi-faceted friendship to begin with, for lack of better words." He laughed to himself at this. "The Vulcans have a word: T'hy'la – it means… Huh… English is so inadequate here. It means friend, brother-in-soul, something like that. It's the highest form of friendship and love."

"Maybe," Khan retorted; his eyes flashed. "So there is a friendship link between you and your first officer. Only friendship?"

A soft laughter escaped Kirk. "Oh Jesus, you're jealous!" His heartbeat quickened while he returned the fierce gaze with his own, full of warmth and affection.

"I am not jealous!" Khan growled. "But I don't like the idea that the Vulcan is mentally bonded to you. I do not share – least of all you!"

Jim rolled his eyes. "Nien, Spock and I are friends, no less and no more. Vulcans are touch telepaths and a mental connection to those they are close to… It's common for them." He bent down and kissed the pouting Augment. "There is no reason for the green monster," the young captain whispered as he let his lover's lips free. "Spock is happy with Uhura. Well, as happy as a Vulcan can be – and I'm happy with y…" He stopped and blushed as he realized what he had nearly said.

The tension began to leave the super-human. "You are happy with me?" he asked. And the mixture of awe and hope that lay deep in those blue-green pools woke the protectiveness in Jim again.

"Yes, I am," he answered gently. "I know if you total it all up, we've only known each other for a week, maybe. But it doesn't feel that way." He took a deep breath. "I've never had a real relationship. I've been happy with my independence, and then came you and…" He gulped. "Somehow you managed to wriggle right into me." At this Nien raised an eyebrow. "Into my heart, you idiot." He groaned and let himself falling on the other man's chest. "God, I'm lost!"

Feeling a smile tugging at his mouth, Nien wrapped his arms tightly around the younger man; the pain he felt when he thought his James was bonded to another one faded into nothingness. "You are not lost," he whispered. "Not as long as I have you."

"Then never let go," Jim mumbled, his lips moving against the warm, soft marble-colored skin. He could taste the salt of their mingled sweat, the musk of their night together and the unique spice that was pure Nien.

Curling himself around the younger man, Khan held him close and buried his face in the golden, tousled hair. "Never," he vowed. He closed his eyes, feeling immense relief and contentment his augmented mind fought against. He simply wasn't used to these feelings, but he drank them like a man parched in the desert.

It didn't slip his attention that Jim avoided the detail about bonding via marking with a bite, but he gave it a rest. They had to come to terms with their own hearts first; this trek into relationships, ardor, and love was alien to them both. So he relaxed completely and enjoyed having this special man in his arms – bonded to no one but belonging to him as much as he to his beloved.

The minutes ticked by while the two held another and took their pleasure in each other's company. Chaste kisses dotted faces then became an open-mouthed drag of lips over lips and tongue over tongue. Hands roamed over shoulders and chests and hips, and cocks strained toward one another. Khan brought his palm up to Jim's cheek, and Kirk turned into it, nuzzling his hand then laving over the palm with his tongue until it was slick with saliva. Nien took the hint and dropped his hand to gather their erections together. Precum leaked from the tips of them both. Khan smeared it around them with the pad of his thumb before dragging his fist down and drawing their foreskins back up to the crown.

"Oh fuck, that's – that's good." Jim stuttered out. His eyes closed, and he dropped his head to press against Nien's shoulder, mouthing kisses anywhere he could reach. With one hand, he stroked up Khan's arm, the one working them both off; he felt the ripple of muscles in forearm and bicep. And with his other hand he interlocked their fingers curled around their erections, working with Khan to shape each stroke.

"Jim, tell me. Tell me how." Khan breathed out.

"Nggng, fast and light. Oh God, Oh, so good!" Khan earned an extra moan each time he ran his thumb over the crown, smearing the pre-cum over them as it leaked to ease his way down. Jim gave one long, low groan as his semen pulsed out between their fingers.

Khan let him go but holds him close with the other arm. Just a few more tight, rough strokes and he groaned his own pleasure, spilling over Kirk's heaving stomach. He cleaned his hand on the side of the bed then brought it up to trace over the shell of Jim's ears and his jaw before capturing his partner's lips in an easy kiss. Jim kept his hands lightly on Khan's wrists; each man had only eyes for the other. The sunlight, the quietness of the cottage, the chirping of the birds, the scent of musk and sweat and sex – war was far away, and the peace of their little own world enveloped them whole. Khan reached over for the cloth on the floor to wipe them down; and then both men dozed wrapped in each other.

They rose much later, roused by Jim's stomach causing the captain to blush; the Augment chuckled only to have his own belly grumbling at him, earning Khan a teasing snicker. They showered again, rinsing off the night and mornings deeds, but this time they merely washed each other, sharing a few gentle kisses. Khan left the shower cabin first, shaved and slipped into his comfortable Indic clothes before vanishing into the kitchen.

Jim took his time letting the hot water wash away at least some of the aches. Then he slipped into his shalwar pants and changed the sullied blankets and sheets. As he finished, Khan returned from the kitchen; a delicious scent waved through the cottage. He examined Kirk's healing injuries again. He covered them with the ointment he took with him from Diego's ship and bandaged Jim's upper body as he had each morning. But before Nien could turn around and walk back into the living room, Jim's hand shot forward and caught his wrist.

"What's about your arm? I saw the bite marks last night," he asked and firmly returned the gaze of the other man.

"The bite is healing," came the cagey reply and Jim lifted both brows.

"Shouldn't it be done by now?" he pressed gently and the super-human sighed.

"It could be that my DNA's ability to cope with the alien saliva has, indeed, something to do with my retarded healing rate as you said."

Kirk stared at him and chuckled. "You sound like Spock." At that, the Augment only sneered. Then the young officer turned serious again. "The warrigul bite still bothers you." Concern shone in his eyes.

Khan shook his head. "That's not necessary, James, I assure you. It's just healing a bit slower than I'm used to. That's all." He reached out and stroked for a moment the other man's cheek; touched by his lover's concern. "Don't worry, Pyāra, I'm all right."

Jim pressed his face into the long, warm fingers. "You still haven't told me, what 'Pyāra' means."

Another sigh escaped the super-human, but before he could answer, a shrill beeping and the distinct smell of something charred came from the little kitchen. He cursed, whirled around and stormed out of the bedroom with Jim hot on his heels.

A pan was on the stove and a cloud of smoke rose into the air above it, activating the smoke alarm. Khan crossed the room in three long steps and reached the pan, took a potholder and pulled the pan off of the induction field. Jim followed him and looked down at the pan's contents.

Black, shriveled, stinking…

"Ummm… What was this before it fell prey to the heat?" he asked, and Nien grimaced.

"Something like bacon – at least 'Aldebaran bacon' was written on the package."

Jim nodded slowly, glancing at the blackened mess with interest. "Well, I do love my bacon crispy, but don't you think you overdid it just a bit?"

The two men looked at each other; then Kirk burst out laughing, while Khan rolled his eyes. "If you didn't stop me, I could've returned to the kitchen and this…" He waved his hand toward the object of his derision… "…could have been prevented."

"Admit it, you've never done bacon before," Jim grinned, and the former dictator groaned.

"No, it doesn't exactly belong to India cuisine, you know."

"And you tried to…" Kirk stopped as he realized the intentions of his forbidden lover, and cocked his head. "You did it for me." he whispered; his words were a statement rather than a question. Khan was quiet, and so Kirk knew that he had hit the nail on the head. In an impulse, he cupped one of Nien's cheeks, turned the super-human's face toward him, bent forwards and placed a warm, lingering kiss on his lips. "Thanks," he whispered as he drew back.

"What for?" Khan asked, a little bit confused. "I burned it."

"For trying," Jim answered. "It's the thought that counts." In a gesture of fondness, he pressed his forehead against the Augment's then reached for the pan. "And now we can make something you'll eat and…" Kirk stopped as Nien caught his arm, stilling him.

"You are still healing; no housework!"

"I can clean the pan, Nien. I'm not made of glass," the Enterprise's captain retorted wryly, but the super-human shook his head.

"You already made the bed. Right now you must take it easy, James – especially after last night," he added with a knowing smirk.

"But I feel fine!" Kirk protested.

"And I'm glad for it, still, you have to rest." Khan remained reasonable.

"If I don't use my muscles soon, I'll get weak."

"You'll become weaker if you don't let your body heal properly. The workout last night was stressful and quite enough use of your muscles," the super-human replied patiently.

"But I'll go crazy if I can't do anything." Jim began to whine like a little boy.

"You mean crazier than you already are?" Khan teased. The captain's eyes widened.

"Hey, that's not nice!"

"The truth is rarely kind."

"You are not kind," Jim huffed.

"Oh, I can be very unkind as I'm sure you know – especially if the health of one my own is at stake. So put on you kurta, go to the sofa, sit down and wait until I'm done here." Khan's voice permitted no backtalk. But Kirk was not one to back down from a challenge, not from a Gorn, Orion, Klingon, and most certainly not from the beautiful creature in front of him.

"No! You can't order me out of the room like a child…"

"Yes, I can if you are acting like one!"

"No, you can't. I'm a fucking captain!"

Khan heaved a heavy sigh. "I'm not ordering you; I'm simply advising you to listen, for once, to the voice of reason."

"I AM reasonable!"

"When you're sleeping! As soon as you are awake you…"

"How long have you two been married?" The third voice sounded from the entrance, and both men turned around, startled, to find a large, grinning Diego. "Heavens, boys, you sound like my parents!" He chuckled and stepped towards them, a bag in his right hand. "I came by to bring you something to entertain yourselves, well, besides each other. Here are a few books and two PADDs."

Khan grimaced; Otto or Paolo would've said something like that. Kirk just gave the newcomer a cheerful smile. "Thanks, man. For the record…" Jim jerked a thumb towards Khan. "He's the mom."

The Chilean began to laugh. "'Mother-le-matya' more like," he joked. "Believe me, your Vulcan and our Drythen have quite the competition going on trying to protect you." He placed the bag on the table. "Do you two always eat breakfast this late?" he asked curiously.

"Shit, how long have you been standing there?" Kirk asked.

Diego grinned.

Jim rolled his eyes at that. He was becoming quite the expert at it on this trip. "We weren't in the mood for an early morning," he answered and strolled to the bedroom to slip into his Indic shirt. Even with the home's heat system running, the cottage was cool, and Diego went to fix some hot coffee for the men.

"Aldebran has 27 hours per day, but even by Earth's standards, you're up and about pretty late."

"So, the nights here are longer than Earth's?" Khan interrupted him, cocked his head and fixed Jim with a promising gaze through the open bedroom door. "That is a welcome fact."

"Yes it is," the cottage's owner confirmed knowingly. "During this season, the nights are approximately an hour and a half longer than days. Once winter comes, the nights are two hours longer Earth's."

"Sounds like Alaska," Jim quipped, returning from the bedroom.

Diego chuckled at the sight of the love bites along the line of Jim's throat. Much darker than the pinkened marks at Khan's throat – nearly healed now. "Hell and bells, boys; looks like I'm going to have to stock more linens."

Jim blushed while the super-human just smirked. "We would be obliged, Diego," Khan answered as the Chilean murmured, "I'm adding a lot of shower gel and slick to the shopping list!"

Kirk's face flushed a shining, tomato red right up to the tips of his ears.

Of course, it didn't slip Diego's attention. "Ah, I see. You already need 'em, huh? And here I thought you had to heal."

"He is still healing – that would be the conversation you walked in on," the Augment drawled. Jim marveled at Khan's nonchalant attitude regarding their relationship. A stranger was teasing them about their relationship, and Nien reacted as if it were nothing. Now, Kirk was anything but shy, but he wasn't sure about his new partner. He kind of figured Khan would be more protective, more furtive of the relationship. Not out of shame – just... So as not to put all of his cards on the table in front of others. Either way, the Augment didn't so much as look Diego's way; he just continued on with breakfast's second attempt.

"Ah, so he is eager as a foal," Diego laughed. "Or should I say, a young stallion?"

"Latter fits best, I suppose" Khan nodded; he was clearly enjoying Kirk's embarrassment much more than he felt the need to keep their…activities private. Jim reddened right down to his neck, and he tossed the former dictator a fierce gaze that could melt lead. 'So much fire'. No wonder he had fallen for the younger man.

"Watch yourself, Nien. Horses kick." Kirk grumbled, and the Augment gave him a dangerous smile.

"Yes, but tigers don't run from horses; they get caught in the end."

"Oh, Nien, the chase is half the fun," Jim answered pleasantly.

"And what is the other half?" Khan questioned wryly; Diego snickered.

"The fight to the finish, man," Kirk replied with eyes lowered.

"So the old saying is true then." Diego interjected. "The quarrel of lovers is the renewal of love!" He returned to the coffee machine and added water to the reservoir; he missed the severe stares the men leveled at each other.

"So, how's everyone?" Jim changed the topic carefully, feeling warmth right down to his toes when Khan's gaze softened towards him.

"Oh, the usual. Ritek and Galven bicker all day; Caviw tries to calm them down. Jeffrey and the others are enjoying the time-out."

"Have you seen any news on the war?" Jim asked tentatively.

"Mmmm, yeah, some. The media're spinning the war any way it wants, but we've heard that before. Starfleet has increased her forces in the sectors near the former Neutral Zone. Aldebaran's security is seriously high strung – no spacecraft is allowed port without a thorough check of documents and crews, so be glad that we arrived three days ago. Oh, UFP news says they'll be a meeting of the Federation delegation and the Klingon High Council. Nothing's official, but as it seems both sides finally remembered that you can use your mouth to solve problems rather than fists and photon torpedoes." He leaned against the kitchen counter. "I'd definitely prefer a conference instead of more violence."

"You are absolutely right," Jim nodded. "To tell you the truth I'm fed up with the war! Still, I'm surprised that they are already considering a congress. The blood-letting usually goes on much longer before anyone's ready for the roundtable – especially the Klingons."

"Well, they're still just rumors," Diego shrugged; he brought the coffee pot to the table. "I don't think that the common herd will learn the truth until the conference actually happens." He sighed. "I have an idea. Are you two in the mood for a visit to town – or New Aberdeen?"

"What?" Jim lifted both brows, and the Chilean smiled.

"Well, you are doing better; war is near but far enough away that this planet still enjoys a bit peace. And since you are both from the outer world, I figured you would like to explore a little bit more than just the bayou." He hesitated. "Have you already walked the shores?"

"Of course," Khan nodded and brought fruits, bread, cheese and marmalade to the table; behind him in a second pan, scrambled eggs were notably uncharred and almost ready to be eaten.

"Then you should take a sight-seeing tour through New Aberdeen. The brother-in-law of my best friend's cousin has a travel agency and… Man, do you always eat this healthy stuff?" He looked wide-eyed at the breakfast 'Drythen' had prepared.

The Augment smirked, "Of course, Diego." He pointed at Jim. "It's not for nothing he's the Federation's new hero; and I can damage a comms console with my fist. You don't get that from feed pellets."

It was a joke – and a good one. Diego and Jim were both surprised at Khan's show of humor this morning. Diego responded to it in the only possible way. He laughed.

"Really, Drythen, you're a hell of a guy; I like you." He became very aware of the intense glances the two younger men shared – all warmth and not-so-subtle passion. "I like you both!" He grinned and shook his head. "And when I look at you guys…" He glanced between them again. "I think our little trip to New Aberdeen should wait a few more days. But then you're my guests, clear?" He sat down and poured the freshly brewed coffee into the three cups. "A shopping trip will me more necessary then." He chuckled. "If I have to buy a new bed by then, just let me know!"

"Of course, my friend!"

Jim's sputtered, nearly losing his coffee at Khan's dry retort, leveling a stern gaze at his lover.

None of the men could foresee the threat on the horizon…

ST***ST***ST

Crowds milled around the small café in the shopping center. Most visitors came from the shops and offices in the neighborhood trying to catch lunch before they return to their jobs. The atmosphere was one big pretense of a light mood. Too many people feared that the war would reach the planet sooner rather than later, but no one talked about it. Somehow the silence made it easier to deny.

Guests milled, baristas shouted orders; they'd all flee if they knew the identities of five men in the corner booth.

At first, second, and even third glance, the men looked like any other human, albeit a little taller than the average Terran. But other than that, they resembled humans in every way. Only an extremely sensitive tricorder or a med-scan would have revealed their heritage – this or the language left unspoken in order that they not draw unwanted attention.

One of them stared with green-brown eyes down into his cup of coffee, clearly not enjoying the beverage. "I always knew that Terrans had terrible taste, but this here reminds me of the slap of an enraged woman: Bitter and hot." His accent was hard and guttural.

"Quit complaining and put some sugar or something in it," another man murmured, glaring at him with dark eyes. They both had well-trimmed moustaches and short, shorn hair – exactly like the other three men, who stayed silent. "We are not here to discuss Terran food and drink." His voice was sharper but bore the same accent as the first speaker. He lowered his head. "Can anyone see our contact?"

"He's coming down the stairs outside in the shopping area now," one of the other three men said.

The first speaker grumbled, "At least he isn't late!"

They fell silent again and waited until another man stepped to their table. "Good day, gentlemen," he greeted and pulled a chair to the table. He was in his late thirties with an ordinary face and dark blond hair – nothing remarkable. It was an asset as far as he was concerned. Lifting a hand, he ordered coffee and a salad before making a bit of small-talk with the five other occupants. When the newcomer's meal arrived, the topic of discussion changed.

"Any problems arriving on Aldebaran?" he asked quietly, adding the table spices to his salad.

"None," the leader of the little group answered, and the newcomer lifted both brows.

"Then you are unaware of the danger you barely escaped," he said casually. "A Starfleet cruiser was here and checked every arriving vessel over the past day – including yours."

The other man bent forwards. "What Starfleet cruiser? Did they find something? Did the cretin of a captain kept his mouth shut?" The newcomer only looked at him, not cowed by the threatening look being leveled at him. "Tell me Mr. Makfurton!"

"The name is McFurthon – Mc for 'son of' and…"

His table mate cut short his explanation hissing, "I do not care for the meaning of Terran names. Just answer my questions!"

For several seconds, both men glared at each other; then the newcomer lowered his voice, barely understandable. "The captain did what he was paid to do; he smuggled you and your comrades to Aldebaran. He kept quiet. No one would consider those documents false – after all I prepared them. The commanding officer of the Starfleet ship checked yours thoroughly because your vessel came from the former Neutral Zone, but he found nothing illegal." He leaned back and looked smugly considering his own success. "And that ship that took notice of your vessel's course. I'm sure you've heard of it. I advise you to keep calm if you don't want to draw attention to yourselves." He had paused for a second before he continued, "It was the Enterprise."

"What?" the other man gasped; his comrades tensed. "The Enterprise? KIRK is here?"

The newcomer glared at him. "For God's sake, Koloth, shut up!" He looked under his lashes around him, but no one took notice of them. "As far as I heard, the Enterprise is under the command of the Vulcan first officer – a Mr. Spock. One of your generals captured Captain Kirk. The transmission about Kirk's ordered execution was…"

"Lord Kor caught him – but, it seems you are not up-to-date, spy! Kirk escaped!"

McFurthon stared at him. "He… escaped? How?"

"He had help. When Lord Kor gave me the Aldebaran-mission, he told me that the man responsible for the demise of our patrols on Qo'noS freed Kirk." A deep frown appeared on the Klingon's human-like brow; evidence that he too descended from those Klingon clans which had been treated with human augmented DNA. "Apparently Kor's 'hospitality' did Kirk no good or he'd be in command of his ship." His glare darkened even more. "Kirk defiled my reputation and my honor when he beamed over some damn fur-balls the humans call 'Tribbles'. They spread through the whole Empire – a plague of the worst kind." He spit out his words and balled his hand into a fist. "It was an attack against us. First his officers taunted my first officer," he nodded towards the man he had been speaking with before McFurthon came. Hate glistened in his eyes. "And he picked a fight, treated us as if we were criminals and then he beamed the Tribbles onto my ship! If I ever get my hands on him, he will think Kor's treatment was a caress!"

McFurthon sighed – Klingons and their pride! He fixed Koloth with a glare. "Forget about Kirk and concentrate on your mission. Your admiralty hired me to support you and paid me the half of the agreed price – the rest after your success. And your reputation will be restored to its former glory if you manage to blow up this system's Starfleet's base, making the way free for your fleet to pillage and plunder as it sees fit."

Koloth snarled wordlessly at him but nodded. "You are right." He pursed his lips. "How does it feel to betray the people you once considered your own?"

"You framed it correctly. Past tense! I once considered Starfleet my people. I gave them the best years of my life and they let me fall! I made one little mistake and everything I ever did for them was conveniently forgotten. I was stripped of my rank and am rotting in Admin hell. Well, their bad luck wasting my talents. The information I get on the job is valuable – as your admiralty admitted."

"So you are doing this for revenge," Koloth assumed.

"Yes. As your people say: Revenge is a dish best to be served cold. Starfleet won't know what hit her when you're done here."

Koloth nodded, but inwardly he despised the human. Betrayal was something he could never and would never tolerate. A Klingon would rather die than betray his people. Well, right now the Terran's weakness, his treason, suited his purposes. It made Koloth's mission possible; still he loathed the way the Terran thought and acted, but it made the exploitation that much sweeter.

"So, you have the layout of the spaceport and the Starfleet quarters?" he asked quietly.

McFurthon smiled coldly. "Yes, I have. They are not far from each other," He handed over a small data key. "Here is all the information you need; still you should check it out yourself. Visit the spaceport and have a closer look at Starfleet headquarters. Both are northwest of Thalassis; the address is there too." He also handed him three credit cards and murmured, "They are loaded with a thousand credits. That should cover hotel and meals." Then he leaned back. "I think two days will be enough for you to check everything; we'll meet back in three days. Until then, I have the materials you need to destroy the headquarters and the spaceport. Then your fleet should have no trouble annexing the Aldebaran system."

Koloth pursed his lips and rose. "Where will we meet?"

"Near the spaceport is a small pub called "The Stars". We will meet there in three days at 1400, all right?"

The Klingon simply snorted, took the three credit cards and put them together with the data key into his trouser pocket. Without another word, he left the café, his officers trailing behind him.

McFurthon grimaced – Klingons! Then he realized that Koloth had left without paying the drink tab. Cursing he reached for his credit card to settle the bill the waitress had already in her hand…

TBC…

Surprise, surprise – Captain Koloth is the opponent of the past. Maybe some of you have guessed something like this, after all the Tribble-Incident that caused (along with other events) so much wrath in the Klingon High Council had already taken place before. And, as you certainly remember, Koloth has big mouth but less courage. I think you know to what this will head, hm? Yeah, our boys will kick some Klingon asses and are going to proof what a great team they make (not only in bed).

Well, referring to the 'bed': I think it was about time that Jim makes up his mind and that he realizes what his happening to him and Nien – that they both have developed deep feelings for each other. And the riddle of the mark had to be solved sooner or later, so I hope you liked it (and their bickering at the morning).

Within the two next chapter you will learn about Khan's fate in the hands of Section 31 and there will be the overdue talk about Khan's deeds afterwards (especially concerning Pike's death because of it). And you will learn more about his past in the 20th century. Luengo and Norton will plotting, Koloth and his men will appear once amore and someone of Jim's friends his going to solve the riddle of 'Sunrise'.

You see, there is lot of coming for you now.

I hope you liked the chapter and I'm – as always – curious about your thoughts.

Until soon,

Love

Yours Starflight