Chapter 3
"Zarabeth, this is no place to have a baby. You have to try and hang on."
"It wouldn't have been my first choice, either. As for hanging on...that's easier said than done."
Taylor grimaced. "Sorry, I've never tried this myself. Maybe I'm better off with a toasted extensor."
Janax returned, her expression grim. "Your disheveled states make it look as though we have abused you. I expect you to make it clear that this is not the case."
"Of course. You've been a wonderful hostess," Taylor retorted bitterly. "I can feel your caring all the way down to my fingertips."
"You had best mind your manners, Captain, or you may soon experience other sensations you will not enjoy. As for you, wife of Spock, you will speak to your husband in ten minutes. When you do, I expect you to plead with him to arrange your release. I have decided that nothing short of an extreme emotional appeal will move our cause forward."
"You obviously know Spock pretty well," Taylor mumbled under her breath.
For the first time since their ordeal had begun, Zarabeth's eyes flashed with anger. "Even if I thought that might work, I have no intention of doing anything of the kind."
Janax gave an incredulous laugh. "No? Even if it means that you, Captain Taylor, and your infant will die here with us?"
"Especially then. Once - a long time ago - I was given a chance to beg for my life. I refused then, and I will not change my mind now. You're perfectly capable of presenting your own arguments, just as you presented them to us. I can, and will, ask that Spock listen to you, but beyond that he'll have to decide for himself."
"You are a very stubborn, and a very foolish, woman after all. I strongly suggest you reconsider."
Abruptly, she pivoted and stalked back to her seat. Michaela waited until she was out of earshot before she spoke again.
"I think I know what's happened, and it's what we predicted. Starfleet has refused to deal with them, and they've been ordered to surrender the craft. This is a last-ditch effort to undo what they've started. It's all spun out of control."
"I meant what I said, you know. If we are going to die, I won't spend my last hours cowering."
"Neither will I. But they know that once they kill us, they'll have no bargaining power at all. I think our best course is to put on just enough pressure to keep them off balance. The last thing we want to be is predictable."
"Funny - you told me the same thing the night before my wedding. And you were right, by the way."
"Then let's hope my instincts are on target this time, too."
Janax returned and motioned them toward the helm. "It's time for the transmission. You may take our seats while you confer with the governor, but do not attempt to touch the controls or I will terminate the conversation."
The viewscreen flickered to life precisely on schedule. Spock appeared, seated, surrounded by the neutral grey walls of his office at the Embassy. Except for the fresh lines on his forehead, and the slightly hollow look in his eyes, he appeared perfectly composed and in control.
"Zarabeth - I am gratified to see you. I trust that you are in no acute distress?"
"Nothing I can't handle." Her voice caught; with an obvious effort, she managed to keep her tone light. "Looks like I'm going to be even more delayed than we expected. I guess that will give you some extra time to get the house cleaned up and ready."
"There is no need," he said quietly. "Everything is in place, awaiting your arrival. I trust that will be soon."
"I hope so, too. Spock, Michaela's been hurt. She's going to need better medical attention than we can provide here."
"It was my own fault," Taylor cut in, holding her arm out of the screen's range. "More of a misunderstanding than anything else, but Zarabeth is right about my needing a doctor. Have you made any progress on getting us out of here?"
"It remains my intention to reach an agreement that will satisfy all factions concerned. If that proves impossible, I am obligated to inform you that Starfleet is prepared to employ other means. Your abductors should know that they will be punished if they persist in being unreasonable."
"Just as I told you," Taylor growled at Janax. "You weaken your own position every minute we remain here."
"That's enough." Pushing Taylor aside, Janax took her place at the screen. "Governor, are you prepared to release my husband, Voral? If so, you may have these women back at once. It should not be a difficult decision."
"On the contrary. Voral was convicted of attempted murder undertaken in the commission of terrorist acts. It is not a charge I can easily overlook."
"He did nothing of the kind. It's true that he opposed the building of your house - he found its ostentation vulgar and insulting. Governor Jennings chose that site because he enjoyed the garden, something that had belonged to all our people before he came along. What did he care if it had special religious and cultural significance to us for centuries? He wanted it for himself, and that was that."
"If that is true, there were, and are, avenues for resolving such disputes. Instead, you chose lethal means to disrupt the proceedings. As a result, three Danaan workmen were nearly killed."
"And I have already told you, my husband had nothing to do with that. It's true that those capsules of neuro-gas were deliberately placed where the workmen would strike them with their shovels, but think about it. Would Governor Jennings have left the site unattended and unguarded, knowing that the project had already caused controversy? No, he planted those capsules himself, or he got Lucas Hawkes to do it. He was willing to sacrifice as many of his Danaan servants as it took to rid himself of his most dangerous enemy. I am sure it was a bitter blow to him when the victims survived, but all the same, the incident accomplished his purpose. Voral respects life in a way Governor Jennings and his minions never could."
"I find your expression of such sentiments somewhat ironic, considering your present circumstances."
"Normally we would never resort to the behavior you have seen today. However, we have been pushed too far. Naioch and I realize that we will probably forfeit our own lives in our attempt to be heard. All the same, we see it as a sacrifice made for the greater good of our civilization. As such, we can accept our own ends as a necessary contribution."
"What she's saying does make some sense, Captain," Taylor interjected. "She could easily have killed me with the phaser, but she only used it defensively."
Spock looked at Janax. "Have you any corroboration for your version of events?"
"I have plenty. For example, why did our former governor simply disappear instead of waiting to greet his successor? If you were to locate his craft, I suspect you would find it laden with valuable artifacts and other ill-gotten gains pilfered from our treasury. Then there is the matter of the downstairs bedroom. He knew that garden held special significance for our people long before it became his. And then he chose to profane it further by using it for trysts with his mistress. If you sincerely wish to locate evidence, Governor, you should be able to find it in abundance." Her eyes narrowed. "But I will also tell you this: any show of force against us, or against our followers on Danaaus, and I will take actions I do not wish to. Desperation may make me cruel."
"I would request that you remain patient. Hasty actions directed at delicate matters tend to serve no one's best interests."
"I hope you will heed your own words, Governor. Or this may be the last time you see either of these women again."
"Understood. I will consider all you have said. Spock out."
Moments after the screen went dark, Zarabeth slumped forward in her seat with a gasp of agony. Naioch and Taylor rushed forward to prop her up.
"There should be a pull-out cot on the port side," Michaela told Naioch, struggling not to let any weight drop on her bandaged arm. "You should have told Spock about the baby."
"No," Zarabeth muttered through clenched teeth. "He needs to concentrate on what he's doing. Besides...if something does go wrong, I can't leave him with that kind of guilt. I've got to get through this myself."
"When you do, you will understand what I have endured for eight long years," Janax said with an angry laugh. "In all that time, I have never set eyes on or spoken directly with my own husband. It is my lot to face every day alone."
"Don't try to exploit me." Pale with fury, Zarabeth slowly turned and looked Janax full in the face. "You might be surprised by what I understand."
---
It took seven pairs of hands to open the inner gates of the prison, a hulking stone structure that predated Danaaus' Federation-era automation.
Hawkes noticed Spock's look of distaste as guards slammed the heavy doors shut behind them. "We don't have to worry about any systems failures this way. It provides an added security measure."
"In that case, you may wait here until I return."
He started forward into the long, dingy corridor, but Hawkes veered into his path. "Governor, going in there might be the worst mistake of your life. They've already forced the hostages to defend them, a trick you - and excuse my honesty - seem to have fallen for. I'm asking you again to wait until Starfleet can pinpoint the transmission signals. Their cloaking device is bound to be primitive, and shuttlecraft itself has neither shields nor weapons. We could disable them before they harm the hostages."
"I believe we have already discussed that possibility. At the time, I determined that it presented an unnecessary risk to everyone aboard. Therefore I shall continue with my present course."
"Can't you see that giving this rabble-rouser even a minute of your time is as good as caving in completely?" Hawkes' face was rigid with disdain. "Your need to play diplomat is seriously weakening our bargaining position. If you want to sacrifice your own wife and child, that's your concern. But I have to draw the line at letting you undo twenty-five years of Federation progress on this planet."
Without breaking eye contact, Spock gestured for the seven prison guards to close in around him. Hawkes looked a little startled when they shifted into a tight half-circle that left him staring at not one but eight resolute expressions.
Privately, Spock was almost as relieved as his security chief was surprised by the guards' choice of loyalties. His voice, however, betrayed none of his previous misgivings.
"Chief Hawkes, I suggest you step out of my way before I have you forcibly removed."
Hawkes' fury swept through the stone chamber like a sudden blast of cold air. Then, indignantly, he moved aside. The second set of doors heaved open, admitting Spock into the inner sanctum of the prison alone.
Presently, a fresh contingent of guards escorted him to the end of a second, seemingly endless, stone passageway. There, in a small room containing only two chairs, a table, and a single armed sentry, Voral himself waited in total silence. His arms and ankles had been chained to his seat.
The most feared criminal in the Danaan prison was far from what Spock had expected. Instead of the rough edges and steely eyes of a felon, Voral had the delicate build of the poets and wandering minstrels depicted on the tapestries in the governor's study. Years of confinement had flecked his fine blond hair with grey and worn the luster from his eyes, though, and when he spoke, his voice sounded gravelly from disuse.
"This is the first time I've ever seen this room," he said, watching intently as Spock took the seat across the table from him. "I am not allowed visitors, you know. Yet today I am entertaining the most distinguished one in the colony. Forgive me if my manners have decayed along with the rest of me."
"That is of no concern to me, since my purpose is not sociable."
"I never suspected it was. So why did you want to see me, Governor? I have heard about the hostages - though I was left here to rot, I am not entirely lacking in outside sources - but I fail to see what I can, or should, do to help free them."
"Then let us discuss a different matter first. I have spent several hours obtaining and reviewing a complete record of your progress through this colony's judicial system. It appears to me that there were several anomalies, not to mention actual legal breaches, in your apprehension and subsequent trial."
"That's no secret - it never has been. Eben Jennings and Lucas Hawkes framed me, and plenty of people know or at least strongly suspect the truth. But no one with any say in the matter has cared until now."
"Unfortunately, that has also become obvious to me. What I am most interested in is some form of proof, either confirming your guilt or your innocence, that will enable me to put this case to rest."
"Proof? Well, you might try asking his mistress - the one he had visit him in the garden room at dawn every morning. Then again, perhaps he took her with him when he fled the planet with his stash of ill-gotten wealth."
"He did not. I believe that the woman you speak of appeared in the garden only a few hours ago."
"Really?" Voral whistled. "That does surprise me. Either he didn't tell her when he was going, or she disobeyed him for the first time in many years. Then again, it's always possible he bequeathed her to you. Sort of passing the torch, as it were." He shook his head. "Anyway, what difference does any of this make? I know you won't release me. I'm too dangerous to the stability of your colony. The Federation would have preferred that I die in this place, and they have provided all the necessary conditions. The one thing they never counted on was the individual's will to survive, no matter how hideous, or hopeless, one's prospects are."
"Indeed, that is a phenomenon with which I am personally acquainted. Perhaps you should consider the situation from another perspective. It is clear that you desire independence for your people. Yet surely it must be obvious to you that this society is not yet ready to manage its own affairs. After twenty-five years of disenfranchisement, it will take more than your ambition to prevent significant civil conflict, or even an all-out catastrophe."
"Of course I realize that, and I'd be very sorry to see that happen. But shouldn't we Danaans be allowed to make our own mistakes? Hasn't that always been Federation policy?"
"In most cases, yes. Our present circumstances are somewhat different. One cannot simply undo Federation rule overnight, as you seem to believe. Besides, your claim to authority is by no means universally accepted among the indigenous population."
"You may be expressing things more politely than your predecessor did, but your argument is one I've heard a thousand time before. I remain in this hell because my very existence reminds the Federation just how fragile a hold it keeps on everything it enjoys here. Our resources, our pleasant climate, even our convenient position with respect to your interstellar command posts - all these are benefits your superiors will not be eager to give up."
"It seems to me, Voral, that a man of your obvious acumen would be more open to compromise than you are presently willing to admit."
Voral snorted with laughter. "Compromise? I didn't think the Federation's representatives ever learned that word."
"Perhaps Governor Jennings did not. Nevertheless, I believe you will find my vocabulary somewhat less limited."
---
Zarabeth lay on the pulled-out seat at the back of the craft, her face bathed in sweat, shuddering as the contractions tore through her with increasing violence. She clutched at Michaela's good hand as Taylor desperately tried to distract her from the pain.
"I was just thinking back to when you first came on board the Copernicus - do you remember how I took you from sickbay to your cabin and brought clothes for you? That was my idea, you know. The Captain seemed totally embarrassed when I mentioned it. I don't think it ever occurred to him that you'd need...well, some supplies once you got to the future."
"He hasn't changed much when it comes to things like that. It's all right - I can figure out a lot on my own."
"You were a full-time duty for me, at least for the first week or so. I had to explain things most of us take for granted: the replicators, ice cream, twnety-second century rock music...."
Zarabeth managed a tortured smile. "Spock has never quite forgiven you for that one. And I have to admit that I did like the food too much. Good thing I had the perfect excuse to eat as much of it as I wanted. But I'm sorry if I was a burden on you."
"No, no. That's not what I'm trying to say. I wanted to help you. Not just because of everything you'd been through, but because I genuinely enjoyed making you happy."
"Well, I haven't forgotten it, believe me. Maybe in some ways it's fitting that you're here, now, instead of Spock. This might be a bit too intense for him."
Taylor swallowed hard. "I told you before: I've been entrusted with your safety. That means I'm prepared to give my life for you. And if I have to...I will."
The grip on Taylor's hand increased to an almost bone-crushing intensity. "Michaela...it's time. I need your help...now."
"But I can hardly move my arm - I can't do it alone. Janax, come here. You'll have to assist us." She gave Zarabeth's fingers a reassuring squeeze, then moved to the side as Janax hurried over. "I hope you were right about people being more alike than different," she whispered. "Our survival - and probably your son's - is going to depend on it."
---
Spock had gathered his aides in the Embassy conference room. Notably absent was Security Chief Hawkes. He addressed Starfleet's fidgety young envoy first.
"Lieutenant Commander, you will arrange for another communication with the shuttle in one hour's time. I think they will agree."
"I'll try, sir."
"It is essential that you do better than that. Now go and make the necessary preparations. Incidentally, I intend to take full responsibility for the transmission's content myself. I will not seek, or require, Starfleet's approval."
"Very well."
Spock waited until he had left the room before continuing. "Now the next order of business. Early this morning, I observed a Danaan woman in my garden. I would like all of you to inquire discreetly among all Embassy employees, particularly those who guard the transporter room, who has been using it to gain access to the governor's house. Please ascertain her identity and bring the information to me immediately."
He watched as the men and women seated around the table exchanged uncomfortable glances. Finally the Secretary of Renewable Energy spoke in a tentative voice.
"I don't think an extended inquiry is necessary, sir. Most everyone here knows that Governor Jennings had...ah, a companion. And you're right about the transporter room staff. They had standing orders to beam her over every morning, or whenever else the governor wished it."
"I see. Inform her - and the transporter room - that I wish to see her at once. She may have information that will enable us both to locate Governor Jennings' craft and resolve the Voral matter in time to save the Federation hostages."
"Yes, sir." They rose in unison and began to file from the room.
---
The baby arrived even more quickly than anyone had anticipated. The disabled Michaela guided the proceedings as best she could, while a hyperventilating Janax actually drew him out for his first taste of open air. The whole time, Naioch leaned over the back of the seat Taylor had vacated. The phaser hung forgotten by his side, and his mouth hung open in wonder.
"Could you turn your back, please?" Taylor snapped up at him. "The governor's wife would like some privacy."
Janax, looking a little queasy, glanced up at him and shrugged. Together, they withdrew and resumed their seats at the helm. They continued to watch as Taylor and Zarabeth tended to the squalling infant.
"He looks like Spock, all right," Michaela joked, brushing her fingers along the tiny, delicately upturned ears. "I guess that resolves a lot of bets among the Copernicus crew. In fact, I just made thirty credits myself, if I can ever find Lt. Arlyss again."
"He's also the last Sarpeid that will ever be born. We've agreed to call him Jarrod, after my father. I'd hoped to preserve not only my own line, but an entire world, through him. Now I don't even know if that can happen."
"Well, I still think we have a pretty good chance." Cradling her throbbing arm, Taylor swung around to address Janax and Naioch. "Let's be honest with each other. You won't ignite this shuttle with the baby inside. I saw your face when you delivered him. You aren't the heartless pirates you pretend to be. Call this game off and let us go home. Now."
Janax's troubled gaze shifted from her to the baby, then to Naioch, and back again. She sighed bitterly. "You are right. We can no more kill you, or ourselves, than we could end the life of this innocent child. It is not who we are, or what we believe in. It never was."
"Janax, no," Naioch's hands, along with his voice, quivered with fear. Janax grabbed the phaser away from him before he had time to protest. "She's trying to confuse you!"
"It's over, Naioch. We cannot go through with our original plan. All that remains is for us to seek mercy from the Federation's authorities. Perhaps, if we turn ourselves in peacefully, our sentences will be less harsh than that given to Voral. If it is any consolation, I will take the brunt of the responsibility. You were merely my follower - one whom I have wronged grievously. I am sorry."
Naioch fell silent, visibly grieving, just as the radio began to trill. Scowling, he leaned over to engage it.
"Janax, they're hailing us," he informed her sadly. "It's the Governor."
"Captain Taylor will respond to his signal." Janax held out her hand. The one that held the phaser remained at her side. "Captain, if you please?"
Taylor took the helm and keyed in the transmission. When Spock appeared on the screen, he looked genuinely surprised to see her there.
"Captain Taylor, please report."
"Well, I guess this is a strange place to offer congratulations, sir, but you have a son. He and Zarabeth are in the back, resting, but you can take my word that they're both doing fine."
Fleetingly, she saw Spock's face cloud with something that might have passed for emotion. She waited respectfully, though, for the expected formal nod.
"Your exemplary service during this crisis will not go unremarked, Captain. I shall request that Starfleet issue a commendation for your bravery."
"I think Zarabeth should get one, too. After all, she did most of the work. I only helped - as best I could." She patted her injured arm. "And believe it or not, you can also thank Janax. It would have been a lot more difficult without her help."
"Please have her come forward." He waited until Janax moved into the screen's range. "Janax, I am prepared to negotiate with you. You will now listen to and consider my terms."
"But, Governor - " Janax began, but Spock held up a hand to silence her.
"In examining your demands, I find that your position has some merit. However, given the means you have chosen to express your dissatisfaction, and the current social conditions here on Danaaus, it would be highly impractical for me to relinquish the colony's government to Voral at this juncture."
"I understand," Janax replied glumly.
"Perhaps you do not, Janax," came a new voice. Suddenly Voral himself appeared on the screen, wearing the clothes of a free man rather than the uniform of the Federation prison. "I have been released - conditionally."
At first, Janax was too astonished to speak. "Voral - can it really be you? Is this some trick?"
"It is not. But please, listen to the Governor's conditions and then make your decision. I am sure whatever choice you make will be the correct one."
Janax glanced at Taylor and swallowed. Her fingers twitched around the phaser she still held in her lap. "Very well. Proceed."
"Upon your return, you will be placed in temporary custody, but I am prepared to dismiss all charges if you surrender the shuttle to Captain Taylor peacefully," Spock explained. "As for the future of this colony, about which you have expressed such concern, it is my intention to gradually restructure its governing body so that the Danaan people can work toward independence at a natural pace. By the time I complete my term in office, a fully democratic process should be in place. Voral may assume leadership if he is voted in; otherwise a Danaan electorate will determine an alternate candidate."
"The Governor has offered pardons to us and our followers as long as we agree to negotiate all future disputes in council," Voral added. "Janax, you may do as you see fit, but I recommend that you accept this offer. After all, your primary purpose has already been accomplished. You demanded my release, and I have been released. The Federation has also issued a warrant for Governor Jennings, if his craft can ever be located. It is time we started a new life - and we should allow them to do the same."
Janax swiveled her chair and looked up at Naioch. This time, he nodded.
"Very well," she said, returning her attention to the screen. "We accept the terms. Captain Taylor, we surrender full control of this craft to you. In addition, we place ourselves at your mercy." She held out the phaser to Michaela, who accepted it with her good hand. "I give you my word that Naioch and I will return to Danaaus as your prisoners."
"I give my word, too. You will be delivered as passengers, not captives. Besides, I'm going to need a little help landing this thing, unless my arm completely heals within the next hour or so." She frowned. "I'm not going to be able to meet the Wellfleet as scheduled, am I? Zarabeth and I both need to visit your medical center, and I certainly don't want to start my first command with my arm in a sling."
"Why don't you make arrangements for her to recuperate at our house?" Zarabeth interrupted. They looked around and saw that she had, with a great effort, managed to pull herself close enough to the helm to see the screen - and for Spock to see the baby. "Perhaps she can stay in this garden room we've heard so much about...since I don't intend for you to spend any time there at all."
"Agreed," he said, failing to conceal the smile that - very briefly - flashed across his mouth at the sight of his child. "But Zarabeth, I regret to inform you that I have had to dismiss not only my Security Chief, but our housekeeper as well. I shall begin the search for a new one as soon as you are able to assist me. In the meantime, we shall have to manage on our own."
"We'll figure something out. The important thing is that Jarrod and I will be with you soon."
"I shall be waiting. Spock out."
"I see what you mean about his being a Vulcan in public," Michaela said as she plotted a return course at the helm.
"It's all right. You and I can go to the hospital when we get back, but I don't plan to stay there very long. And Spock and I can discuss the rest when I get home."
"Zarabeth, this is no place to have a baby. You have to try and hang on."
"It wouldn't have been my first choice, either. As for hanging on...that's easier said than done."
Taylor grimaced. "Sorry, I've never tried this myself. Maybe I'm better off with a toasted extensor."
Janax returned, her expression grim. "Your disheveled states make it look as though we have abused you. I expect you to make it clear that this is not the case."
"Of course. You've been a wonderful hostess," Taylor retorted bitterly. "I can feel your caring all the way down to my fingertips."
"You had best mind your manners, Captain, or you may soon experience other sensations you will not enjoy. As for you, wife of Spock, you will speak to your husband in ten minutes. When you do, I expect you to plead with him to arrange your release. I have decided that nothing short of an extreme emotional appeal will move our cause forward."
"You obviously know Spock pretty well," Taylor mumbled under her breath.
For the first time since their ordeal had begun, Zarabeth's eyes flashed with anger. "Even if I thought that might work, I have no intention of doing anything of the kind."
Janax gave an incredulous laugh. "No? Even if it means that you, Captain Taylor, and your infant will die here with us?"
"Especially then. Once - a long time ago - I was given a chance to beg for my life. I refused then, and I will not change my mind now. You're perfectly capable of presenting your own arguments, just as you presented them to us. I can, and will, ask that Spock listen to you, but beyond that he'll have to decide for himself."
"You are a very stubborn, and a very foolish, woman after all. I strongly suggest you reconsider."
Abruptly, she pivoted and stalked back to her seat. Michaela waited until she was out of earshot before she spoke again.
"I think I know what's happened, and it's what we predicted. Starfleet has refused to deal with them, and they've been ordered to surrender the craft. This is a last-ditch effort to undo what they've started. It's all spun out of control."
"I meant what I said, you know. If we are going to die, I won't spend my last hours cowering."
"Neither will I. But they know that once they kill us, they'll have no bargaining power at all. I think our best course is to put on just enough pressure to keep them off balance. The last thing we want to be is predictable."
"Funny - you told me the same thing the night before my wedding. And you were right, by the way."
"Then let's hope my instincts are on target this time, too."
Janax returned and motioned them toward the helm. "It's time for the transmission. You may take our seats while you confer with the governor, but do not attempt to touch the controls or I will terminate the conversation."
The viewscreen flickered to life precisely on schedule. Spock appeared, seated, surrounded by the neutral grey walls of his office at the Embassy. Except for the fresh lines on his forehead, and the slightly hollow look in his eyes, he appeared perfectly composed and in control.
"Zarabeth - I am gratified to see you. I trust that you are in no acute distress?"
"Nothing I can't handle." Her voice caught; with an obvious effort, she managed to keep her tone light. "Looks like I'm going to be even more delayed than we expected. I guess that will give you some extra time to get the house cleaned up and ready."
"There is no need," he said quietly. "Everything is in place, awaiting your arrival. I trust that will be soon."
"I hope so, too. Spock, Michaela's been hurt. She's going to need better medical attention than we can provide here."
"It was my own fault," Taylor cut in, holding her arm out of the screen's range. "More of a misunderstanding than anything else, but Zarabeth is right about my needing a doctor. Have you made any progress on getting us out of here?"
"It remains my intention to reach an agreement that will satisfy all factions concerned. If that proves impossible, I am obligated to inform you that Starfleet is prepared to employ other means. Your abductors should know that they will be punished if they persist in being unreasonable."
"Just as I told you," Taylor growled at Janax. "You weaken your own position every minute we remain here."
"That's enough." Pushing Taylor aside, Janax took her place at the screen. "Governor, are you prepared to release my husband, Voral? If so, you may have these women back at once. It should not be a difficult decision."
"On the contrary. Voral was convicted of attempted murder undertaken in the commission of terrorist acts. It is not a charge I can easily overlook."
"He did nothing of the kind. It's true that he opposed the building of your house - he found its ostentation vulgar and insulting. Governor Jennings chose that site because he enjoyed the garden, something that had belonged to all our people before he came along. What did he care if it had special religious and cultural significance to us for centuries? He wanted it for himself, and that was that."
"If that is true, there were, and are, avenues for resolving such disputes. Instead, you chose lethal means to disrupt the proceedings. As a result, three Danaan workmen were nearly killed."
"And I have already told you, my husband had nothing to do with that. It's true that those capsules of neuro-gas were deliberately placed where the workmen would strike them with their shovels, but think about it. Would Governor Jennings have left the site unattended and unguarded, knowing that the project had already caused controversy? No, he planted those capsules himself, or he got Lucas Hawkes to do it. He was willing to sacrifice as many of his Danaan servants as it took to rid himself of his most dangerous enemy. I am sure it was a bitter blow to him when the victims survived, but all the same, the incident accomplished his purpose. Voral respects life in a way Governor Jennings and his minions never could."
"I find your expression of such sentiments somewhat ironic, considering your present circumstances."
"Normally we would never resort to the behavior you have seen today. However, we have been pushed too far. Naioch and I realize that we will probably forfeit our own lives in our attempt to be heard. All the same, we see it as a sacrifice made for the greater good of our civilization. As such, we can accept our own ends as a necessary contribution."
"What she's saying does make some sense, Captain," Taylor interjected. "She could easily have killed me with the phaser, but she only used it defensively."
Spock looked at Janax. "Have you any corroboration for your version of events?"
"I have plenty. For example, why did our former governor simply disappear instead of waiting to greet his successor? If you were to locate his craft, I suspect you would find it laden with valuable artifacts and other ill-gotten gains pilfered from our treasury. Then there is the matter of the downstairs bedroom. He knew that garden held special significance for our people long before it became his. And then he chose to profane it further by using it for trysts with his mistress. If you sincerely wish to locate evidence, Governor, you should be able to find it in abundance." Her eyes narrowed. "But I will also tell you this: any show of force against us, or against our followers on Danaaus, and I will take actions I do not wish to. Desperation may make me cruel."
"I would request that you remain patient. Hasty actions directed at delicate matters tend to serve no one's best interests."
"I hope you will heed your own words, Governor. Or this may be the last time you see either of these women again."
"Understood. I will consider all you have said. Spock out."
Moments after the screen went dark, Zarabeth slumped forward in her seat with a gasp of agony. Naioch and Taylor rushed forward to prop her up.
"There should be a pull-out cot on the port side," Michaela told Naioch, struggling not to let any weight drop on her bandaged arm. "You should have told Spock about the baby."
"No," Zarabeth muttered through clenched teeth. "He needs to concentrate on what he's doing. Besides...if something does go wrong, I can't leave him with that kind of guilt. I've got to get through this myself."
"When you do, you will understand what I have endured for eight long years," Janax said with an angry laugh. "In all that time, I have never set eyes on or spoken directly with my own husband. It is my lot to face every day alone."
"Don't try to exploit me." Pale with fury, Zarabeth slowly turned and looked Janax full in the face. "You might be surprised by what I understand."
---
It took seven pairs of hands to open the inner gates of the prison, a hulking stone structure that predated Danaaus' Federation-era automation.
Hawkes noticed Spock's look of distaste as guards slammed the heavy doors shut behind them. "We don't have to worry about any systems failures this way. It provides an added security measure."
"In that case, you may wait here until I return."
He started forward into the long, dingy corridor, but Hawkes veered into his path. "Governor, going in there might be the worst mistake of your life. They've already forced the hostages to defend them, a trick you - and excuse my honesty - seem to have fallen for. I'm asking you again to wait until Starfleet can pinpoint the transmission signals. Their cloaking device is bound to be primitive, and shuttlecraft itself has neither shields nor weapons. We could disable them before they harm the hostages."
"I believe we have already discussed that possibility. At the time, I determined that it presented an unnecessary risk to everyone aboard. Therefore I shall continue with my present course."
"Can't you see that giving this rabble-rouser even a minute of your time is as good as caving in completely?" Hawkes' face was rigid with disdain. "Your need to play diplomat is seriously weakening our bargaining position. If you want to sacrifice your own wife and child, that's your concern. But I have to draw the line at letting you undo twenty-five years of Federation progress on this planet."
Without breaking eye contact, Spock gestured for the seven prison guards to close in around him. Hawkes looked a little startled when they shifted into a tight half-circle that left him staring at not one but eight resolute expressions.
Privately, Spock was almost as relieved as his security chief was surprised by the guards' choice of loyalties. His voice, however, betrayed none of his previous misgivings.
"Chief Hawkes, I suggest you step out of my way before I have you forcibly removed."
Hawkes' fury swept through the stone chamber like a sudden blast of cold air. Then, indignantly, he moved aside. The second set of doors heaved open, admitting Spock into the inner sanctum of the prison alone.
Presently, a fresh contingent of guards escorted him to the end of a second, seemingly endless, stone passageway. There, in a small room containing only two chairs, a table, and a single armed sentry, Voral himself waited in total silence. His arms and ankles had been chained to his seat.
The most feared criminal in the Danaan prison was far from what Spock had expected. Instead of the rough edges and steely eyes of a felon, Voral had the delicate build of the poets and wandering minstrels depicted on the tapestries in the governor's study. Years of confinement had flecked his fine blond hair with grey and worn the luster from his eyes, though, and when he spoke, his voice sounded gravelly from disuse.
"This is the first time I've ever seen this room," he said, watching intently as Spock took the seat across the table from him. "I am not allowed visitors, you know. Yet today I am entertaining the most distinguished one in the colony. Forgive me if my manners have decayed along with the rest of me."
"That is of no concern to me, since my purpose is not sociable."
"I never suspected it was. So why did you want to see me, Governor? I have heard about the hostages - though I was left here to rot, I am not entirely lacking in outside sources - but I fail to see what I can, or should, do to help free them."
"Then let us discuss a different matter first. I have spent several hours obtaining and reviewing a complete record of your progress through this colony's judicial system. It appears to me that there were several anomalies, not to mention actual legal breaches, in your apprehension and subsequent trial."
"That's no secret - it never has been. Eben Jennings and Lucas Hawkes framed me, and plenty of people know or at least strongly suspect the truth. But no one with any say in the matter has cared until now."
"Unfortunately, that has also become obvious to me. What I am most interested in is some form of proof, either confirming your guilt or your innocence, that will enable me to put this case to rest."
"Proof? Well, you might try asking his mistress - the one he had visit him in the garden room at dawn every morning. Then again, perhaps he took her with him when he fled the planet with his stash of ill-gotten wealth."
"He did not. I believe that the woman you speak of appeared in the garden only a few hours ago."
"Really?" Voral whistled. "That does surprise me. Either he didn't tell her when he was going, or she disobeyed him for the first time in many years. Then again, it's always possible he bequeathed her to you. Sort of passing the torch, as it were." He shook his head. "Anyway, what difference does any of this make? I know you won't release me. I'm too dangerous to the stability of your colony. The Federation would have preferred that I die in this place, and they have provided all the necessary conditions. The one thing they never counted on was the individual's will to survive, no matter how hideous, or hopeless, one's prospects are."
"Indeed, that is a phenomenon with which I am personally acquainted. Perhaps you should consider the situation from another perspective. It is clear that you desire independence for your people. Yet surely it must be obvious to you that this society is not yet ready to manage its own affairs. After twenty-five years of disenfranchisement, it will take more than your ambition to prevent significant civil conflict, or even an all-out catastrophe."
"Of course I realize that, and I'd be very sorry to see that happen. But shouldn't we Danaans be allowed to make our own mistakes? Hasn't that always been Federation policy?"
"In most cases, yes. Our present circumstances are somewhat different. One cannot simply undo Federation rule overnight, as you seem to believe. Besides, your claim to authority is by no means universally accepted among the indigenous population."
"You may be expressing things more politely than your predecessor did, but your argument is one I've heard a thousand time before. I remain in this hell because my very existence reminds the Federation just how fragile a hold it keeps on everything it enjoys here. Our resources, our pleasant climate, even our convenient position with respect to your interstellar command posts - all these are benefits your superiors will not be eager to give up."
"It seems to me, Voral, that a man of your obvious acumen would be more open to compromise than you are presently willing to admit."
Voral snorted with laughter. "Compromise? I didn't think the Federation's representatives ever learned that word."
"Perhaps Governor Jennings did not. Nevertheless, I believe you will find my vocabulary somewhat less limited."
---
Zarabeth lay on the pulled-out seat at the back of the craft, her face bathed in sweat, shuddering as the contractions tore through her with increasing violence. She clutched at Michaela's good hand as Taylor desperately tried to distract her from the pain.
"I was just thinking back to when you first came on board the Copernicus - do you remember how I took you from sickbay to your cabin and brought clothes for you? That was my idea, you know. The Captain seemed totally embarrassed when I mentioned it. I don't think it ever occurred to him that you'd need...well, some supplies once you got to the future."
"He hasn't changed much when it comes to things like that. It's all right - I can figure out a lot on my own."
"You were a full-time duty for me, at least for the first week or so. I had to explain things most of us take for granted: the replicators, ice cream, twnety-second century rock music...."
Zarabeth managed a tortured smile. "Spock has never quite forgiven you for that one. And I have to admit that I did like the food too much. Good thing I had the perfect excuse to eat as much of it as I wanted. But I'm sorry if I was a burden on you."
"No, no. That's not what I'm trying to say. I wanted to help you. Not just because of everything you'd been through, but because I genuinely enjoyed making you happy."
"Well, I haven't forgotten it, believe me. Maybe in some ways it's fitting that you're here, now, instead of Spock. This might be a bit too intense for him."
Taylor swallowed hard. "I told you before: I've been entrusted with your safety. That means I'm prepared to give my life for you. And if I have to...I will."
The grip on Taylor's hand increased to an almost bone-crushing intensity. "Michaela...it's time. I need your help...now."
"But I can hardly move my arm - I can't do it alone. Janax, come here. You'll have to assist us." She gave Zarabeth's fingers a reassuring squeeze, then moved to the side as Janax hurried over. "I hope you were right about people being more alike than different," she whispered. "Our survival - and probably your son's - is going to depend on it."
---
Spock had gathered his aides in the Embassy conference room. Notably absent was Security Chief Hawkes. He addressed Starfleet's fidgety young envoy first.
"Lieutenant Commander, you will arrange for another communication with the shuttle in one hour's time. I think they will agree."
"I'll try, sir."
"It is essential that you do better than that. Now go and make the necessary preparations. Incidentally, I intend to take full responsibility for the transmission's content myself. I will not seek, or require, Starfleet's approval."
"Very well."
Spock waited until he had left the room before continuing. "Now the next order of business. Early this morning, I observed a Danaan woman in my garden. I would like all of you to inquire discreetly among all Embassy employees, particularly those who guard the transporter room, who has been using it to gain access to the governor's house. Please ascertain her identity and bring the information to me immediately."
He watched as the men and women seated around the table exchanged uncomfortable glances. Finally the Secretary of Renewable Energy spoke in a tentative voice.
"I don't think an extended inquiry is necessary, sir. Most everyone here knows that Governor Jennings had...ah, a companion. And you're right about the transporter room staff. They had standing orders to beam her over every morning, or whenever else the governor wished it."
"I see. Inform her - and the transporter room - that I wish to see her at once. She may have information that will enable us both to locate Governor Jennings' craft and resolve the Voral matter in time to save the Federation hostages."
"Yes, sir." They rose in unison and began to file from the room.
---
The baby arrived even more quickly than anyone had anticipated. The disabled Michaela guided the proceedings as best she could, while a hyperventilating Janax actually drew him out for his first taste of open air. The whole time, Naioch leaned over the back of the seat Taylor had vacated. The phaser hung forgotten by his side, and his mouth hung open in wonder.
"Could you turn your back, please?" Taylor snapped up at him. "The governor's wife would like some privacy."
Janax, looking a little queasy, glanced up at him and shrugged. Together, they withdrew and resumed their seats at the helm. They continued to watch as Taylor and Zarabeth tended to the squalling infant.
"He looks like Spock, all right," Michaela joked, brushing her fingers along the tiny, delicately upturned ears. "I guess that resolves a lot of bets among the Copernicus crew. In fact, I just made thirty credits myself, if I can ever find Lt. Arlyss again."
"He's also the last Sarpeid that will ever be born. We've agreed to call him Jarrod, after my father. I'd hoped to preserve not only my own line, but an entire world, through him. Now I don't even know if that can happen."
"Well, I still think we have a pretty good chance." Cradling her throbbing arm, Taylor swung around to address Janax and Naioch. "Let's be honest with each other. You won't ignite this shuttle with the baby inside. I saw your face when you delivered him. You aren't the heartless pirates you pretend to be. Call this game off and let us go home. Now."
Janax's troubled gaze shifted from her to the baby, then to Naioch, and back again. She sighed bitterly. "You are right. We can no more kill you, or ourselves, than we could end the life of this innocent child. It is not who we are, or what we believe in. It never was."
"Janax, no," Naioch's hands, along with his voice, quivered with fear. Janax grabbed the phaser away from him before he had time to protest. "She's trying to confuse you!"
"It's over, Naioch. We cannot go through with our original plan. All that remains is for us to seek mercy from the Federation's authorities. Perhaps, if we turn ourselves in peacefully, our sentences will be less harsh than that given to Voral. If it is any consolation, I will take the brunt of the responsibility. You were merely my follower - one whom I have wronged grievously. I am sorry."
Naioch fell silent, visibly grieving, just as the radio began to trill. Scowling, he leaned over to engage it.
"Janax, they're hailing us," he informed her sadly. "It's the Governor."
"Captain Taylor will respond to his signal." Janax held out her hand. The one that held the phaser remained at her side. "Captain, if you please?"
Taylor took the helm and keyed in the transmission. When Spock appeared on the screen, he looked genuinely surprised to see her there.
"Captain Taylor, please report."
"Well, I guess this is a strange place to offer congratulations, sir, but you have a son. He and Zarabeth are in the back, resting, but you can take my word that they're both doing fine."
Fleetingly, she saw Spock's face cloud with something that might have passed for emotion. She waited respectfully, though, for the expected formal nod.
"Your exemplary service during this crisis will not go unremarked, Captain. I shall request that Starfleet issue a commendation for your bravery."
"I think Zarabeth should get one, too. After all, she did most of the work. I only helped - as best I could." She patted her injured arm. "And believe it or not, you can also thank Janax. It would have been a lot more difficult without her help."
"Please have her come forward." He waited until Janax moved into the screen's range. "Janax, I am prepared to negotiate with you. You will now listen to and consider my terms."
"But, Governor - " Janax began, but Spock held up a hand to silence her.
"In examining your demands, I find that your position has some merit. However, given the means you have chosen to express your dissatisfaction, and the current social conditions here on Danaaus, it would be highly impractical for me to relinquish the colony's government to Voral at this juncture."
"I understand," Janax replied glumly.
"Perhaps you do not, Janax," came a new voice. Suddenly Voral himself appeared on the screen, wearing the clothes of a free man rather than the uniform of the Federation prison. "I have been released - conditionally."
At first, Janax was too astonished to speak. "Voral - can it really be you? Is this some trick?"
"It is not. But please, listen to the Governor's conditions and then make your decision. I am sure whatever choice you make will be the correct one."
Janax glanced at Taylor and swallowed. Her fingers twitched around the phaser she still held in her lap. "Very well. Proceed."
"Upon your return, you will be placed in temporary custody, but I am prepared to dismiss all charges if you surrender the shuttle to Captain Taylor peacefully," Spock explained. "As for the future of this colony, about which you have expressed such concern, it is my intention to gradually restructure its governing body so that the Danaan people can work toward independence at a natural pace. By the time I complete my term in office, a fully democratic process should be in place. Voral may assume leadership if he is voted in; otherwise a Danaan electorate will determine an alternate candidate."
"The Governor has offered pardons to us and our followers as long as we agree to negotiate all future disputes in council," Voral added. "Janax, you may do as you see fit, but I recommend that you accept this offer. After all, your primary purpose has already been accomplished. You demanded my release, and I have been released. The Federation has also issued a warrant for Governor Jennings, if his craft can ever be located. It is time we started a new life - and we should allow them to do the same."
Janax swiveled her chair and looked up at Naioch. This time, he nodded.
"Very well," she said, returning her attention to the screen. "We accept the terms. Captain Taylor, we surrender full control of this craft to you. In addition, we place ourselves at your mercy." She held out the phaser to Michaela, who accepted it with her good hand. "I give you my word that Naioch and I will return to Danaaus as your prisoners."
"I give my word, too. You will be delivered as passengers, not captives. Besides, I'm going to need a little help landing this thing, unless my arm completely heals within the next hour or so." She frowned. "I'm not going to be able to meet the Wellfleet as scheduled, am I? Zarabeth and I both need to visit your medical center, and I certainly don't want to start my first command with my arm in a sling."
"Why don't you make arrangements for her to recuperate at our house?" Zarabeth interrupted. They looked around and saw that she had, with a great effort, managed to pull herself close enough to the helm to see the screen - and for Spock to see the baby. "Perhaps she can stay in this garden room we've heard so much about...since I don't intend for you to spend any time there at all."
"Agreed," he said, failing to conceal the smile that - very briefly - flashed across his mouth at the sight of his child. "But Zarabeth, I regret to inform you that I have had to dismiss not only my Security Chief, but our housekeeper as well. I shall begin the search for a new one as soon as you are able to assist me. In the meantime, we shall have to manage on our own."
"We'll figure something out. The important thing is that Jarrod and I will be with you soon."
"I shall be waiting. Spock out."
"I see what you mean about his being a Vulcan in public," Michaela said as she plotted a return course at the helm.
"It's all right. You and I can go to the hospital when we get back, but I don't plan to stay there very long. And Spock and I can discuss the rest when I get home."