A Woman in His Life

Chapter Twelve - Biological Imperatives

By Penmom

Author's Notes -- (1) Since this takes place beyond the present cannon - this is AU. (2) Big Thanks to everybody who has inspired me to continue along - INCLUDING - Peter de Lange, cool cat, skye1974, Lowenove, tripgrl3, Arania, Nala, plumtuckered, chrissie, Phaser Lady, nikitee, Eratta - so many of you -wow - I appreciate your insightful comments and advice. (3) In the feedback department do I take the high PG road or the low R road - what do you think? (4) This is kind of a risky chapter, more drawing things together before moving on. hope I don't lose you!

[Phlox - Medical Log]

---- through the creation a sustained neuro-psychic pathway, the female Vulcan brain, seems to be equipped to override a prospective mate's indigenous neuro-chemical patterns in order to ensure the continuation of the line.

Based on similar bonding methods in several other humanoid species, one would theorize that that this unknown capability is most likely a hold over from the ancient history of the species. Vulcans were historically an aggressive, conquering race. There may have been times, when entire tribes of warriors were wiped out and only females were left to continue. Those with psychic skills strong enough to essentially convert the chemistry of a prospective mate to that of their own were not only successful in procreating but also ensured the survival of the Vulcan race.

A thorough cross-reference of the Vulcan medical database yields no supporting - or refuting evidence as to this theory. Given what is known about the many taboos and social rules surrounding mating practices within the Vulcan culture, one might assume that many of these ancient taboos might have a physiological basis.

Sub Commander T'Pol allows that she was aware that there were certain cultural taboos regarding unattached females practicing the discipline of Neuropressure. She was unaware that the custom might have a physiological basis. Again, due to the closed aspects of Vulcan society, scientific information about these morays or the physical consequences of breaking them are essentially non-existent.

------ a standard battery of tests shows alterations throughout Commander Tucker's bodily systems. I would hypothesize that the repeated psychic contact between the two, first altered the neural cortex and these neural changes then began to alter the metabolic functioning of the body.

There are significant changes in vast majority of Commander Tucker's systems as demonstrated when compared to his most recent physical. (See Medical Chart CT8905) -----

---- In most cases, his vitals are roughly in line with that of an adult Vulcan male of similar age. Compared to an expected human profile, his body is performing at 23.8% over the expected peak. A particularly fascinating change is seen in the brain. There is a significant increase in activity throughout the brain with both the Pituitary and Hypothalamus functioning at 37.25% beyond expected levels.

The electrical impulses in the areas of the brain associated with thought and memory have approximately doubled. As Sub Commander T'Pol so aptly put it, Commander Tucker is physiologically closer to a Vulcan than a Human at this point.

The ramifications of these physical changes - significant as they are - may only provide the backdrop for - a situation of cross species mating. Given a brief review of the little information that is available regarding

Much of the expected male/female interaction is an instinct-driven, biological process. Sub Commander T'Pol postulates that she is entering into such a cycle in response to her contact with Commander Tucker. In reviewing his endocrine levels, it would be safe to assume that he too is entering into a similar hormonal state. I postulate that circumstances will continue to escalate until the endocrine cycle completes itself.

----- both crew members will be impacted to the point that their biological imperatives will require priority over their regular duties. While it is understood that both are sorely needed at all times, ignoring these circumstances will only further their agitation and greatly increase the chance of poor work performance. This information will be passed on to the Captain at 0800 hours

TBC