Captain's log - Stardate 2261.5

I'm not sure I fully approve of this plan, but Bones and Spock are beaming down alone. Bones is of the opinion that Spock can get through to the creature if it is intelligent and he can communicate mentally with it. On the other hand, if it is intelligent and empathic, Bones believes his experience with Gem will help him communicate with it. He also plans to take back the egg as a goodwill gesture.

This better work. Replacing a First Officer is bad enough without having to replace a CMO as well.