fourteen

The two days passed swiftly, and almost before they knew it, they had arrived at Vulcan and Amanda was greeting them. Sarek was due back the following day from some diplomatic business on the planet Kaferia, in the Tau Ceti system. He was also bringing back some Kaferian apples, which resembled Terran pears and tasted much the same way. (Amanda enjoyed pears.)

The one feature which distinguished the alien fruit from its Terran counterpart was the green stripes on the fleshy part--but they didn't affect the taste. He hadn't told her he was planning to bring them, however, because he wanted to surprise her. She hadn't had any pears for a long time. The Kaferians had a thriving food production industry and the pear-like fruit was one of their major exports.

Most of the first day on Vulcan was spent bringing Amanda up-to-date on their marriage so far. In fact, the two women became so engrossed that Spock had to almost carry his wife bodily to their room when it came time for bed. Christine wasn't tired, but the look she got from her husband checked the objections on her lips. She reluctantly stood up and he joined her. The couple crossed fingers and bade his mother good evening before going to their room, but Christine had some choice words with her husband once they were behind the door.

"Spock, you knew I didn't want to stop talking--and that I wasn't tired. You would have known if I was. Why did you make me stop?"

The Vulcan frowned at his wife. "It would have been illogical to tire yourself simply for the sake of speaking longer with Mother. As it was, I could sense that she was getting tired."

Christine sighed as they began to prepare for bed. "In other words, you weren't doing it just for me."

Spock sat down on the bed to remove his boots, but left his socks on. He then removed his pants and outer shirt, leaving his underwear on, then slid beneath the bedcovers. He then watched his wife as she finished undressing, then pulled her nightgown over her head. She usually slept barefoot and the nightgown was a loose, light summer one. He didn't answer her until she was in bed beside him and he was holding her...gently but securely, with her head cradled on his shoulder, as though she were fine porcelain.

"Mother has a tendency to overextend herself as well. I considered it the most logical means of getting you both to retire--or to use an old Terran expression, 'kill two birds with one stone'. But we had best sleep now, for my father is due back tomorrow morning."

Christine sighed again as she cradled her head on her husband's shoulder. "You're right, as usual. Why is that?"

"Because I am Vulcan," he replied, in an attempt at humor. "I am also your husband and Amanda Grayson's son. You are both ...very precious to me and I have no wish for anything to happen to either of you."

"Can't argue with that." Christine looked up at him and smiled.

Spock returned her smile before brushing her lips with his in a good-night kiss. "Good night, my wife. Sleep well."

"You too, my love."

With that, he told the voice-activated light to go out and put himself into a sleep-trance as the couple shared both physical warmth and emotional satisfaction.

Spock had been awake and dressed for about an hour when a quiet knock came on his bedroom door the following morning. His mother's soft voice told him that his father had just arrived back home.

"Thank you, Mother," he replied. "Christine and I will be out shortly."

"I'll tell him," came her reply from the other side of the door, then she left.

Spock turned around and approached the bed, where his wife still slept soundly. "Christine, my father has returned," he told her. "It is time to get up."

He repeated himself twice more before she stirred, then sat up, yawned and stretched before rubbing her eyes and getting out of bed to give her husband a good-morning kiss. "Give me a few minutes and I'll be right with you."

She gathered her clothing and disappeared into the bathroom. Spock heard the shower turn on, then off after about fifteen minutes. Quiet reigned for a time, then he heard the sound of her hair dryer. His time sense told him that twenty-five minutes had passed when she came out. They exchanged a smile and warm glance, then left their room together. The older couple was in the living room. Spock spoke to alert them to his and Christine's presence.

"Father...Mother."

Sarek and Amanda turned their heads; the older Vulcan nodded in the younger couple's direction and Amanda smiled. "Amanda has said that none of you have eaten breakfast yet. It is therefore logical that we all eat."

Within a quarter of an hour, everyone was eating. It was a silent meal, in keeping with the Vulcan custom which dictated that no conversation was to take place until after the food was finished. As soon as the meal was over and the dishes washed, the four gathered in the living room, making themselves comfortable on the two sofas set at right angles to each other. Each was trying to think of how to start a conversation when the vidphone beeped to indicate an incoming call.

"Excuse me," the older Vulcan said, getting up to answer it. The other three heard the voice of the Vulcan matriarch, T'Pau, in response to Sarek's inquiry.

"I wish to know when the koon-ut-kal-if-fee ceremony for Spock may take place," she stated. "I have a very busy schedule today, so it is logical that it be performed at the earliest possible time."

Spock could have sworn that he detected a touch of irritation in the matriarch's usually emotionless voice.

"I have just arrived back from being off-planet, but it should not take long for us to prepare," Sarek assured her.

"How long?" came the curt question.

"Approximately one hour," was the answer.

"Very well. I shall expect the four of you at the Arena of Marriage within the hour." The vidphone screen went blank.

The Vulcan Ambassador needed only to give a penetrating look in the direction of the other three for them to act instantly. Spock contacted Kirk and told him to report to the Arena of Marriage within the hour, which would allow him time to shower and change into his dress uniform, then went to
change clothes himself. Amanda and Christine went off together; the former gave her daughter-in-law her own wedding dress.

She had altered it as soon as she learned of the granting of permission for the Vulcan wedding (and Christine's measurements, which the younger woman had given in a note she had sent to Amanda shortly after Spock had transmitted his last stargram). It was a simple, two-tone blue affair with a modest scoop neck, capped sleeves and the front sewn with a point just beneath the bosom. The one thing which dressed it up was a sheer, shawl-like thing, held in place by a silk t'lerya flower.

The two women were about the same weight, but Christine was taller and Amanda fuller in the breast and hips. Christine's hair was put up in a Vulcan style similar to the one she had worn for the shipboard wedding, but not as elaborate. There wasn't enough time...nor hair, for that matter. Spock changed into a navy blue and forest-green outfit of thigh-length tunic and pants, topped off with soft black boots.

Amanda and Christine embraced when it came time to leave. "I wish you could come," the younger woman whispered to the older one.

"I know. So do I, but it's all right. You can tell me about it when you get back. You'd better get going now. Even in the aircar, it's a good twenty-minute flight away."

Upon releasing Christine, Amanda turned to her son, patiently waiting near the doorway leading out of the living room and into the entry foyer.

"I, too, 'wish' you could come, Mother. It is...most regrettable that you cannot--just as it is that Dr. McCoy and Miss Uhura cannot be present."

"I understand, Spock, just as I'm sure they do. It's not your fault. The main thing is that you will be married as you wish. You'd better go now. Everyone's waiting."

"Very well."

Spock wanted to embrace his mother, but dared not with his father present. Instead, he merely reached to brush her cheek with his fingertips and smiled, if only with his eyes.

She smiled and patted his hand. "I'll see you when you return, my son." Her voice was soft and tender. She then turned and disappeared through the doorway leading to the hallway and rear of the house.

Spock felt her pain despite his shields and fought against calling her back, unbidden tears stinging his own eyes even as he heard Christine call to him.

"Spock, we've got to go."

The Vulcan turned back toward his wife, lifting his right hand to cross fingers with her upon reaching her side. With that, they followed Sarek out to the aircar. The elder Vulcan drove because he knew of a "shortcut" which would get them to the Arena a few minutes sooner. That was fortunate, for precious time had been lost in making farewells, but Sarek could not bring himself to berate his wife, son or daughter-in-law for their emotionalism. Their actions may have been illogical, but it was necessary for them, so he allowed it. At least this time around. What mattered was that his son and the latter's intended would have a proper Vulcan wedding, in keeping with tradition.

En route, Christine felt her husband's pain at having to leave the mother he loved behind. She reached to squeeze his hand and he looked up at her, velvet eyes large and sad.

I'm sorry your mother couldn't come to our wedding, my love. I'd have liked to have her there, too.

Thank you, my wife. She felt his gratitude and unspoken love.

Do you think the Doctor and Uhura would be pleased to know that I would have liked to have them at our wedding as much as you?

Very pleased, my husband. Now, please don't feel so badly. I hurt when you hurt, you know.

After that, the couple simply held hands, taking comfort and strength from the other's touch and nearness as they sat beside Sarek in the wide front seat of the aircar for the remainder of their trip to the Arena of Marriage.

Kirk was waiting when they arrived, but knew enough not to approach his friend. He would keep quiet until he was needed. Spock struck the gong once, then twice--the cue for T'Pau and the rest of the marriage party to appear. Christine was with them. (Sarek had taken her to where they were waiting, then joined Kirk in observing the spectacle before the latter moved up to join Spock.)

After T'Pau's sedan chair had been placed on a raised platform, she summoned Spock, then Christine, who was nearby, to stand before her. She put a hand on his face in a mental greeting, then greeted the others with the Vulcan salute. The couple returned it, then T'Pau looked in Kirk's direction, gesturing to him to come forward.

The Captain did so, looking at his Vulcan friend out of the corner of his eye as he moved up beside him, wanting to smile reassuringly at him but not daring to do so in the presence of T'Pau or the other Vulcans in the marriage party.

"So, Kirk, we meet again."

"Yes, ma'am," the Human replied, bowing his head.

The Vulcan Ambassador simply remained quiet and observed his son's wedding in the shade of one of the stone monoliths surrounding the Arena.

"I trust thee are aware that thee are only here in deference to Sarek and the fact that it is Spock's right by law for thee to be present." T'Pau's manner was almost haughty, her head held regally.

"I am," the Captain replied, facing her determinedly.

"Can you assure me that this wedding will be completed, that there will be no challenge, as there was with Spock's first bondmate, T'Pring?"

Kirk was indignant at the insinuation that Spock was to blame for the challenge, but couldn't show it. "Yes," he told her, with such conviction that not even T'Pau dared to question him.

"Very well. We shall continue," she announced, turning back to the couple standing before her. In keeping with tradition, she addressed Spock first. At this point, a white-clad woman sat down near the gong and proceeded to beat rhythmically on a small drum she held in her lap; the small bells held by two of the other Vulcans tinkled intermittently.

"Spock of Vulcan, son of Sarek, are thee prepared to honor and cherish thy chosen wife and bondmate, Christine of Terra, remaining with her and whatever children thee may have for as long as thee both shall live, never and always touching and touched?"

"I am." The Vulcan's voice held as much conviction as Kirk's had, prompting both T'Pau and Sarek to raise an eyebrow. A moment later, the matriarch turned toward Christine.

"Christine of Terra, what is thy father's name?"

"Christopher," she replied.

"Christine, daughter of Christopher, are thee prepared to honor and cherish thy chosen husband and bondmate, Spock of Vulcan, remaining with him and whatever children thee may bear him as long as thee both shall live--never and always touching and touched?"

"I am." The Human woman's tone was emphatic almost to the point of defiance, as if she was daring T'Pau to challenge the sincerity of her feelings for Spock, and she was sure that the Vulcan matriarch noticed.

Christine exchanged glances with Kirk and they gave each other a quick smile before their eyes came to rest on their respective husband and friend. A short time later, the drum-beats and bells ended, signaling the imminent conclusion of the wedding. Only one more thing remained to be said, then
Spock and Christine would be officially married.

"We thank you, T'Pau. May peace and good health be yours," Spock said, not really meaning the words but having to say them because they were part of the ceremony.

The matriarch acknowledged him with a nod, then her attendants carried her off in her throne-like chair as though it and its occupant weighed nothing. The drum-woman and bell-ringers followed in their wake. Only when they were out of sight did Kirk dare to speak to his friend and the latter's wife.

"I'm glad that at least I was able to be here, even if Bones and the others couldn't, Spock," the Captain told him with a smile as he congratulated the newlyweds.

"As are we, Jim." The Vulcan looked to his wife for confirmation and got it. In view of Sarek's presence, Kirk didn't congratulate Spock as he wanted to--but did kiss Christine on the cheek.

"Come back with us to our family home, Jim. I am sure Mother would be more than happy to see you again."

Kirk smiled and nodded. "I'd be delighted, my friend. Then when it comes time for the reception, we'll call for Bones and Uhura."

The Human would have sworn that Spock looked sheepish at the mention of the Doctor and Communications Officer, but he couldn't have forgotten that they were supposed to come to the reception...or could he? If that were the case, the Captain would have to keep that knowledge to himself, because they would probably be offended if they knew.

"Yes, of course, Jim. They must be there."

A short time later, everyone joined Sarek and they all left the Arena of Marriage in the aircar. They arrived at Spock's family home a quarter-hour after that.

fifteen

Once all were situated in the living room, Kirk moved off into one corner for privacy, but in a manner so he could see what was going on. The others waited for him to call McCoy and Uhura, for the party couldn't "get off the ground," as it were, until they were present. Kirk had also asked McCoy to bring his gifts to the couple as well as the Doctor's own...though it would be hard to hide some of them, like a live Vulcan t'lerya plant in full bloom.

The best he could do as to wrapping it was put a large white bow on the equally large pot which contained it, including a hard copy of how to care for it.

He had already taken steps to set aside a portion of the ship's Botanical Gardens to accommodate the plant, special climate controls and all--but he would have to inform Spock of this. Other than Spock himself, only their friends or Christine would have any reason to go in. The booklet on its care was mainly for the Humans, because Spock would surely know how to care for it.

He opened his communicator. "Kirk to Enterprise."

Sulu's voice came back. "Enterprise. Sulu here."

"Have Dr. McCoy and Lieutenant Commander Uhura report to the Transporter Room immediately. They'll know why."

"Yes, sir."

He heard McCoy's voice a short time later. "We're in the Transporter Room right now, Jim."

"With the gifts?"

"Naturally."

"Ready to beam down?"

"As ready as I'll ever be to have my molecules scattered around by that fool contraption," the Doctor grumbled.

"But you'll do it for Spock and Christine," Kirk finished.

"Yes--but if you breathe a word to Spock, I'll deny it. He'll think I've gone soft."

Kirk chuckled. "Don't worry, Bones. Your secret is safe with me. Now, will you two get down here before I have to drag you down? Everybody's waiting."

"Be there in a minute, Jim."

Kirk closed his communicator; barely a minute later, McCoy and Uhura stood before him, their arms full of gifts and their backs turned to the others.

"Where can we put these gifts temporarily?" asked Uhura.

"Follow me."

The two new arrivals accompanied Kirk down the hall to Sarek and Amanda's room, where the gifts from Spock and Christine's parents were sitting on the bed. The various gifts from the couple's closest friends were placed alongside them, the plant on the bedside chair.

"Isn't this Sarek and Amanda's room?" Uhura asked as she looked around.

"It'll do for a temporary hiding place," the Captain dismissed. "Now, let's get back to the others."

They rejoined the rest in the living room a short time later. The Vulcans nodded in acknowledgment as they entered, while the Humans smiled. McCoy broke the silence. With that, a voice-activated holovid camera set up at the entrance to the living room began recording, also programmed to turn off at a designated time.

"What are we going to do until it comes time to open the presents?"

"The first thing we're going to do is have lunch, then we can get to the presents," Amanda announced. "Don't worry, it's not anything fancy. Everyone can eat where they're sitting."

Spock and Christine were on one sofa, holding hands; Sarek and Amanda were on the other, along with Uhura on the side closest to Christine. Kirk sat next to Spock; McCoy stood near them and behind the sofa until a folding chair and tray was set up for him next to Kirk. Trays were also set up at each place while Amanda went to get the food.

Again, the meal was quiet, in keeping with Vulcan tradition--but once the meal was over, the wedding cake was brought in on a wheeled tray, a two-tier affair with white frosting and simple floral decorations, along with statuettes of a bride and groom on top. Sarek decided once again that it was logical to relax restrictions...if only a little.

Christine stood up and pulled Spock after her, knowing what was expected of them. The Vulcan didn't know just what was going on, but was sure he would soon find out. Upon seeing the cake, the couple was touched beyond their ability to speak, but did manage to cut and feed the first piece to each other. The others helped themselves to it, and all either stood or sat around eating and drinking either tulac or fruit punch after toasting the bridal couple and wishing them happiness.

The simple fare they had had for lunch--deviled eggs, sliced ham or roast beef for the Humans and assorted vegetables, pasta and fruit for the Vulcans--offset any adverse effects the cake's sweetness might have had on the latter's physiology. Vulcans were not into sweets as a rule, and rarely ate very much unless it was offered to them.

Once all the eating, drinking and toasting was behind them, Amanda gestured to Kirk and Uhura. The Captain also gave the Doctor a meaningful look, so the latter three went to Sarek and Amanda's room to get the wedding presents. Spock was surprised, then pleased, upon seeing the live t'lerya plant. Kirk answered his friend's unspoken question when the Vulcan looked to him for an explanation as to how he had gotten hold of one...and most importantly, how one could be cared for on the ship.

"From your mother, of course. She gave me one from her garden, also including a booklet on how to care for the plant. I have ordered a portion of the Botanical Gardens set aside, specially climate-controlled, to accommodate it. I insisted on paying her the going rate for it, however. She says they're pretty rare, found mostly in gardens, and therefore expensive...but I figured you two were worth it. After all, you're only getting married this one time."

Spock and his wife looked at each other in confusion. "We have been married twice," said the Vulcan.

"I meant that you're only marrying one woman," Kirk explained.

Spock relaxed as he and Christine crossed fingers, but the most memorable moment was when he broke off one flower from the plant and presented it to Christine.

"Smell it," he told her.

She did so, then looked up at him and smiled. "That reminds me of the perfume I wore at our first wedding."

"This is the Vulcan flower it comes from," he said. And you are every bit as beautiful, m'chejan, he thought to Christine, the warmth of his consciousness embracing hers.

Thank you, my love. Her cheeks turned deep pink.

I am stating a fact. He seemed almost insulted for a moment, then it seemed as though the couple had forgotten there was anyone else around.

"Hey, come back to Earth--or Vulcan, as the case may be--you two. You've still got quite a few presents to open," McCoy broke in.

Spock shot him an irritated look, then turned back to Kirk, who seemed to be the one handing out the presents. The next, by an odd coincidence, was the Doctor's, a small, rectangular object about half an inch thick. It could only be a book of some kind. The Vulcan gave McCoy, then Kirk, a questioning look as the gift was revealed--a well-preserved copy of The Prophet by Kahlil Gibran.

Both it and Uhura's gift had been purchased at an import shop specializing in Terran merchandise. Spock also noted several spots in the book which had been specially marked when he skimmed through it.

"The marked passages were favorites of myself and my ex-wife when we were first married. I didn't take them to heart as I should have, but I hope you and Christine do, Spock. Don't make the mistake I did and let a good woman slip through your fingers."

"No danger of that," Christine answered for them.

Spock seemed almost bewildered, even as he sensed the Doctor's concern and affection, and Christine gave her husband a reassuring smile. Uhura's gift was next; she handed it to Christine. Both gave her a strange look after the unwrapping. It was a statue of a tall, slender black woman in a flowing gown.

"It's an African artifact--a likeness of the Bantu goddess of marriage. There's an old legend that whenever a newlywed couple is given this artifact, their marriage will remain solid, no matter what happens in their lives. My parents have one, and they've been happily married for over thirty-five years, so it must work."

Again, the couple's faces softened into understanding, and Christine thanked everyone for caring enough to give them gifts. From Amanda, there was a large plaque, which she had ordered from Earth. On the polished wood there was decoupaged what looked like parchment, upon which a portion of the 13th chapter of First Corinthians in the New Testament was written. It read:

Love suffers long, and is kind; love envies not and does not vaunt itself; nor is it puffed up. Love does not engage in unseemly behavior, does not seek its own, and is not easily provoked--nor does it think evil. It rejoices not in iniquity but in the truth. It bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, and endures all things. Love never fails. And now abides faith, hope, and love: but the greatest of these is love.

Christine read silently, sharing with Spock the whole time, and though he considered it overly emotional, he got the gist of what the lines meant and both of the couple looked up at Amanda, gratitude shining from their eyes. She returned a modest smile, her head bowing even as her cheeks turned pink.

They read excerpts from The Prophet next, the passages on love and marriage. As before, Christine read silently. Again, Spock considered it overly emotional, but understood what the author was trying to convey--and the couple looked up at McCoy, gratitude in their eyes. He nodded and smiled back. They identified most with the following statements:

LOVE:

When love beckons to you, follow him, even though his ways are hard and steep. And when he speaks to you, believe in him, though his voice may shatter your dreams. For even as love crowns you, so shall he crucify you. Love gives naught but itself and takes naught but from itself.

Love possesses not, nor would it be possessed; for love is sufficient unto love. And think not that you can direct the course of love, for love, if it finds you worthy, directs your course. Love has no other desire but to fulfill itself. But if you love, and must needs have desires, let these be your desires:

To know the pain of too much tenderness. To be wounded by your own understanding of love and to bleed willingly and joyfully. To wake at dawn and give thanks for another day of loving; to rest at the noon hour and meditate love's ecstasy; to return home at eventide with gratitude; and then to sleep with a prayer for the beloved in your heart and a song of praise upon your lips.

MARRIAGE:

You were born together, and together you shall be forevermore. But let there be spaces in your togetherness, and let the winds of Heaven dance between you. Love one another, but make not a bondage of love; let it rather be a moving sea between the shores of your souls.

Fill each other's cup, but drink not from the same cup. Give one another of your bread, but eat not from the same loaf. Sing and dance together; be joyous, but let each one of you be alone even as the strings of the lute are alone, though they quiver with the same music.

Give your hearts, but not into each other's keeping, for only the hand of Life can contain your hearts. And stand together, but not too near together: for the pillars of the temple stand apart and the oak and cypress trees grow not in each other's shadow.

The couple also found the passage on children most profound, but decided to wait until they had become parents to discuss it. And it was no longer a case of if, but a matter of when it would happen. Spock also noted the passage on friendship, vowing to read it and discuss it with his two friends at the first opportunity.

FRIENDSHIP:

Your friend is your needs answered. He is your field which you sow with love and reap with thanksgiving. He is your board and your fireside. For you come to him with your hunger and you seek him for peace. When your friend speaks his mind, you fear not the "nay" in your own mind, nor do you withhold the "aye." And when he is silent, your heart ceases not to listen to his heart.

For without words, in friendship, all thoughts, desires and expectations are born and shared with joy that is unacclaimed. When you part from your friend, you grieve not, for that which you love most in him may be clearer in his absence...and let there be no purpose in friendship save the deepening of the spirit. Let your best be for your friend. If he must know the ebb of your tide, let him know its flood, also.

For what is your friend that you should seek him with hours to kill? Seek him always with hours to live. For it is his to fill your need, but not your emptiness. And in the sweetness of friendship, let there be laughter and sharing of pleasures. For it is in the dew of little things that the heart finds its morning and is refreshed.

It came as a surprise to both Spock and Christine when the Vulcan was handed a gift from Sarek. Like Spock, the older Vulcan wasn't one to give gifts--but if he did, it was likely to be one reflecting Vulcan in some way. This gift was no exception ..a holographic IDIC which had been purchased in a "gift shop" on Vulcan and which could be placed on one wall of their quarters, where each would see it every day.

"Thank you, Father," Spock said, meeting his father's eyes with gratitude.

Sarek nodded in acknowledgment with a half-smile. Lastly, the final wedding gift from Christopher and Ann Chapel had been opened. It had been bought from a noted art gallery in Ohio's capital of Columbus. All "oohed" and "ahhed" over the painted masterpiece, even the Vulcans in their own way.

Just then, the subspace radio Sarek kept in his living room began beeping incessantly. He hurried to answer it even as Kirk's communicator began to sound off. The Captain opened it to hear Scott's frantic voice.

"There's been an urgent summons from Starfleet Command, sir! Somethin' bad has happened on Sapphira VII. We've got t' go back there immediately!"

Kirk and Spock looked at each other, dread in their eyes. The Vulcan then looked at his wife, who knew what must have transpired to prompt this distress call. "Oh, dear God," she whispered. "Sapphira's done it again."

But Spock wasn't thinking of all the Sapphiran woman had put him through while he was there. He was more concerned with the safety of a man who was the closest thing he'd had to a friend while there. Pietro. A half-Human, half-alien like himself, a kind and gentle man who nonetheless could fight like a tiger, given sufficient reason. Illogical though his worry was, he couldn't help it. Nor could he avoid a smidgen of hope that the unlucky man who was the object of Sapphira's wrath had not been Pietro.

He had already been subjected to enough at Sapphira's hands without enduring the abuse which any man who displeased Sapphira would get. The beatings, starvation, prison--and worst of all, castration. Spock shuddered at how close he himself had come to it. If it hadn't been for Christine... The Vulcan forced the thought from his mind even as he rose with the others, his hand tightly clasping that of his wife.

"We'll be right up, Scotty. Kirk out." The Captain turned toward Amanda. "I'm sorry we have to leave like this, Amanda, but it's an emergency. Spock, Bones, Christine, Uhura, stand by to beam back to the ship."

Christine released her husband's hand to give her mother-in-law a quick kiss and final hug. "We'll be back for the gifts. Hold them for us." Moments later she had dematerialized, along with her husband and three other shipmates.

"Of course. You know I will," the older woman said, though she couldn't be sure if Christine had heard her.

Sarek returned five minutes later. "My wife, there has been an emergency on Sapphira VII. The Enterprise has been called to investigate and assist."

"I know," Amanda said. "Captain Kirk just heard from them himself, and everyone beamed up. They've probably warped out of orbit by now."

Sarek nodded in reluctant agreement even as he continued speaking. "The Federation Council has also called me in to mediate."

Amanda showed no surprise. "And you were hoping to get a ride from the Enterprise." There was a raised eyebrow, then another nod, accompanied by a grim look. "Won't hurt to try, though I'm pretty sure they're gone by now."

The older Vulcan went back to the subspace radio and attempted to contact the Enterprise; Amanda followed him.

To their surprise and relief, the ship hadn't left yet, but would leave any minute now, according to Uhura.

The call was transferred to Kirk, who said, "Kirk here. What do you want, Sarek? I'm in a hurry." The thin veneer of politeness in the Captain's voice barely concealed his impatience, but Sarek understood and remained unruffled.

"I have been summoned to Sapphira VII to mediate, Captain. I would like to ask if you could transport me there. It would take too long to obtain passage by commercial means."

There was silence for a minute, then Kirk said, "Stand by for beamup...then we've got to get out of here."

Amanda had been sorely tempted to throw herself into the transporter beam and her husband's arms in order to accompany him, but even as much as she wanted to, she knew she had to stay behind. For several reasons, not the least of which was her promise to look after the gifts her son and his wife had left in her care. Who would do it if she were gone? No one.

It was her duty to remain behind, even if all she could do was wait and worry. Even at that, Amanda knew that news would be forthcoming at the earliest opportunity. If not from Sarek, from Spock and the others. It was up to her to "keep the home fires burning," as it were, for everyone's sake--and she intended to do just that.

For an interminable time, the Enterprise streaked through space at her maximum safe speed. There was no time to lose. Any wasted time meant more lives ruined. While en route, Kirk had briefed Sarek on the original mission to Sapphira VII, allowing him to read the reports Spock and Christine had submitted.

The Ambassador had contacted a female associate of his who would work with him during his mediation; unfortunately, she would have to employ commercial means in order to reach Sapphira VII, which would take several days. Until then, he would be unable to approach the Sapphirans.

Kirk hoped it would not be necessary to go into detail on what his Vulcan friend had told him regarding what he'd had to do in order to obtain the mining rights. The Captain felt sure that Spock would sooner die than tell his father anything about that part of the mission.

"Are you certain that you have no further information which might assist me in my mediation?"

Kirk wished he could lie, but knew that Sarek would sense it, being as much a telepath as Spock, so he didn't try. "There is further information, but in order to provide it, I would have to betray a confidence Spock made to me--and I can't do that. Please try to understand." The Captain sighed, then spoke again. "Nor do I have any assurance that it would be of any help to you, even if I did tell you."

Sarek allowed himself a sigh. He didn't want to admit that Kirk might be right, and couldn't force him to betray Spock's confidence. He had enough problems with his son as it was. It would be illogical to even try; it would only make them more stubborn. Neither the Human nor younger Vulcan could be budged where loyalty to the other was concerned.

"Very well. I will not pressure you further."

Kirk relaxed and the two resumed their discussion.

Back on Vulcan, Amanda fought off the twin spectres of loneliness and worry as she cleaned up the remains of the meal and gathered up the presents to Spock and Christine, placing them in the room where they had been staying. Tears misted her eyes as she thought of them--but most of all, she thought of her husband.

She prayed that the mission would go well, but what was most important to her was that they returned in one piece. Starfleet duty had never been particularly safe, as Spock, Christine and the others could testify. Injuries and deaths were an unfortunate yet unavoidable fact of life among starship crews. They would be in danger as long as they were on active duty, but it was their choice--a choice she had to live with. She was thankful to have Sarek and his strength to sustain her.

Amanda smiled upon discovering the bag of Kaferian apples Sarek had placed in their refrigerator. How thoughtful and caring he was...at least of her. She couldn't help wishing that he and Spock could have had a closer relationship, but knew even as she thought it that if it was to be, they had to want it themselves. Nothing she could do would change their minds.

sixteen

It had taken the better part of a week to reach Sapphira VII originally, but their increased speed of warp six had cut their ETA by half, to two-and-a-half days. Still, a lot of things could happen in two-and-a-half days...things that neither Kirk, Spock, or Christine cared to think about.

In fact, Christine made herself think instead of the gifts she would get for Spock, Nyota and McCoy, acting on Pietro's suggestion that she check on the planetside businesses and crafts shops he had told her about if she got the chance. Possibly Kirk would receive a gift as well, if only for the fact that he was such a good friend to Spock.

The Vulcan had lived virtually without love or friendship; it was a wonder he had turned out as well as he had. That was due mainly to his mother, Kirk and herself, though McCoy was also a trusted, caring friend. But it seemed that it was the Captain and his brotherly love for Spock which had made it easier for the Vulcan to show emotion, even occasionally, and accept her feelings--if only up to a point. For that, she would always be grateful to Kirk, though for a long time she had felt a mixture of hurt and jealousy.

Kirk had always been the recipient of Spock's rare shows of affection. She and McCoy dared not get near the Vulcan or show their feelings unless it was on a professional basis, like when he was ill or injured. It was so unfair, when they cared just as much. Many nights she privately cried bitter tears, even while forcing herself to display a public facade of detached professionalism, only daring to speak of her pain to Uhura. She often had to paste on a smile and act like it didn't matter when Spock treated her like a piece of Sickbay furniture.

Kirk, on the other hand, was able to sit beside him if he was ill or injured, hold his hand and comfort him...or share off-duty time in pursuits like 3-D chess, playing his Vulcan harp or eating together. Sometimes, though this was rare, they even went on shore leave together! There were even times she'd had to leave the room because she couldn't bear the hurt any longer.

Once, however, during one of Spock's occasional confinements to Sickbay, while he was asleep, Kirk had looked up at her and their eyes had met. The Captain's eyes had been full of empathy and understanding of their mutual love, but at least he could show his feelings...and unlike hers, his love
was returned. Still, it had seemed to indicate that he understood how she felt and his heart had gone out to her--but not even Kirk could force Spock to acknowledge her. She could only hope that Spock would one day learn to appreciate all she had gone through for his sake. But it was usually McCoy who came after her to offer a comforting hug and reassuring words.

This had been the way life had gone for the eight years she had been aboard...until the mission at Sapphira VII had turned everything around. Now she understood that Spock had needed that time and experience in showing friendship before he could even attempt to show anything more, especially for a woman. As hard as the wait had been, it had been more than worth it once they had finally gotten together.

They arrived back at Sapphira VII the following day. Kirk, Spock, Christine and three redshirts beamed down to meet with the one who had sent the distress call to Starfleet in her home. The woman's friend had been an associate of Sapphira's until Pietro had confessed his love for her.

They had even attempted to run away together, but Sapphira suspected what was going on and had had two of her male underlings follow and capture the runaway lovers. The two were currently incarcerated, having been denied food and other necessary comforts for several days. If Kirk and company hadn't arrived when they did, Pietro and his paramour would have been either castrated or killed, if not both. They would probably also need to protect Setara, because she was putting her own life on the line in order to help her friend and the man the latter loved.

Nothing else will happen to them if I can help it, Kirk vowed, exchanging a glance with the Vulcan which told him his friend felt the same way...as did Christine. They also recalled the large and strong, but gentle and caring man they had come to know and consider an ally, if not a friend, during the two weeks of their mission three months ago. If there was any way for them to prevent it, no more would happen to him.

"Is there any way you could get us to them?" Kirk asked.

Setara looked dubious. "I believe so, but the less people who accompany me, the less suspicious it will seem." She gave Spock and Christine meaningful looks. "You, Spock, and Christine. You have been here before. And at least one of you must wear native clothing."

Spock and his wife exchanged apprehensive looks, which were not lost on Setara. "There is a caftan-like outfit which certain native women wear when they become pregnant. You may wear that. Technically, it is incorrect for a woman who is not pregnant to wear it, but there is no time for arguments."

The Doctor had also felt her husband's relief that he would n't have to parade around all but naked again. But he did need to cover his uniform shirt with a V-necked Sapphiran winter tunic, a thigh-length, long-sleeved affair belonging to Henri, Setara's consort, who was about Spock's height and weight.

Setara was unable to help noticing how Spock and Christine treated each other. "We're married," Christine told her when the women's eyes met, refusing to elaborate for Spock's sake.

Setara nodded in acceptance, not pressing for further information. "Come with me, then...Christine. The rest of you wait here."

Ten minutes later, Christine and Setara returned, the Doctor's hair having been into a hasty semblance of the native style and she was now dressed in a pastel blue-green, caftan-like garment.

"Are you two ready?" Setara asked.

"As ready as we'll ever be," Christine replied, asking her husband with her eyes if he were.

Spock nodded and she relaxed. Setara smiled and turned, beginning to walk away. Spock and Christine followed her after the Vulcan exchanged one last glance with Kirk, assuring his friend and Captain with his eyes that they would return as soon as they could...but knowing even as he did so, that there was nothing to stop Jim and the Security officers from discreetly following.

Since Sapphira was away on a trip to another province (or so they believed), they managed to make it there with little more than some fast talking. After going down several levels, they came to a single jail cell door. Spock surmised that this was the place for solitary prisoners. The heavily barred door was unlocked and the couple was ushered into a dank, dark cell. Only a small window let in any light, and there was a short, narrow cot chained to the far wall.

Pietro sat upon it, a thin, ragged blanket his only covering. His thick, dark hair was matted and dirty, his body unwashed. There were also black-and-blue marks on his face and upper body. He had a shiner on his right eye, which was swollen shut, and there was blood on his mouth from a split lip. A one-and-a-half-inch gash oozed blood above his left eye. Neither of the Enterprise couple cared to even speculate on the wounds he might have which they couldn't see.

Pietro looked up at the sound of Spock's voice, as if unable to believe his ears. His good eye widened. "Spock! By the twin suns of Argelius, is it really you?" The prisoner winced as the pain of his battered body made itself felt upon his attempt to reach the Vulcan. "I never expected to lay eyes upon you or hear your voice again."

Spock lifted a hand to stop him, his voice full of regret. "I am sorry this has happened, Pietro. We shall do everything we can to set things right here again. My ship and all its resources are backed by the Federation and will be used to assist you and your people in every way possible."

Pietro smiled carefully, so as not to aggravate his split lip. "I do hope so, my friend. These last...several days have been--very difficult for me to endure."

"I'm sure they were, but your ordeal won't last much longer if we can help it." This time it was Christine who spoke.

Pietro's good eye widened again, as did his lips in the semblance of a smile. His injuries sharply reminded him of their presence, but it was worth it. "Christine, you're here."

Her voice was soft and reassuring. "Of course. I care about you, too. Spock and I and our shipmates will help you all we can and see that Sapphira is punished for what she's done to you. Can you tell us why you tried to run away with another woman? Surely you know what Sapphira would do to you if she caught up with you."

The Doctor's eyes were soft with sympathy and she wished she could help Pietro--or at least ease his physical discomfort. But his injuries weren't life-threatening, so they would have to wait. She could only hope that things would get straightened out before Sapphira took it into her head to castrate him. Only Heaven knew what had happened to Sareenah, Setara's friend, the woman Pietro had cared enough for to risk Sapphira's wrath and attempt to run away with.

Christine had been too occupied with keeping Spock safe during their mission to consider what might happen to a woman who got in Sapphira's way. Even now, it was something she didn't care to think about...but she would have to at some point if they were to be of any help here.

"I observed the way the two of you acted and wanted to have such a relationship myself, whatever the risk." Pietro sounded so serious that both Spock and Christine had to believe him.

"It couldn't be worth beatings, prison and near-starvation," Christine insisted.

"You wouldn't say that if you knew Sareenah. She is everything I have ever wanted." Pietro's face softened. "Please do all you can for her, too. I can endure whatever is forced upon me, but her only crime--if you can call it that--is loving me. She doesn't deserve this." His voice held a mixture of anger and pain.

"We will, Pietro. You have our word on that." Christine gave him a reassuring smile, though they would have helped Sareenah even if Pietro hadn't asked.

The Argelian's dark mood seemed to lift. "That's good enough for me. Will you go see Sareenah now? Tell her I sent you, that you're friends of mine."

"If that's what you want," Christine said.

"I would appreciate it. Oh, and one more thing..."

"Yes?" she prompted.

"Please forgive my asking, but are you and Spock--still... well...involved?"

Christine smiled. "We are," she confirmed. "In fact, we're married."

Pietro smiled slightly. "I'm pleased for both of you. I hope it is in the stars for me, too...with Sareenah."

"Take care, Pietro," she told him as she and Spock turned to leave.

"Live long and prosper," Spock said with a half-smile and salute in the prisoner's direction before his right hand moved to cross fingers with his wife.

Pietro's good eye again widened at the sight and his grimy face wore a questioning look.

"It is a Vulcan gesture of...affection between husband and wife," Spock explained, then said, "Be strong, Pietro. We will do all we can for you and Sareenah, and see that justice is done."

"Thank you." The other man's head bowed in appreciation.

Spock and Christine departed the cell and rejoined Setara waiting outside, leaving its lone occupant with a much lighter heart for their having come, and far more optimistic as to his probable fate.

seventeen

The women's section of the prison was a good distance away, but a short time later, they reached the equally dark, dank cell wherein languished a naked and shivering, thin and unwashed young woman on the thin pallet covering the bed chained to the far wall. But even the deplorable conditions could not conceal her delicate beauty--her tired, hazel eyes, upturned patrician nose, cupid's-bow lips and brownish-blonde hair, now in unkempt strings.

"Sareenah?" Christine's voice was infinitely gentle and soothing.

The grimy waif in front of her raised her head; her eyes widened at the sight of the nicely dressed, friendly-looking couple. "W-who are you?" she stammered in a soft, dovelike voice.

"We're friends of Pietro's. We're here to help you."

Christine stepped forward, unable to resist putting her hand on Sareenah's dirty cheek. The unhappy young woman held the hand there, tears filling her eyes at the mention of Pietro. Soft sobs tore themselves from her throat and tears began falling. For several minutes Sareenah was unable to stop.

"You're the people from the Federation ship, aren't you?" she asked after composing herself and wiping her eyes, her tears having made clean streaks on her grimy face. "The Assistant Chief Medical Officer and First Officer?" Her eyes widened further upon noting Spock's ears and exotic look. "You're a... Vulcan? But how could you possibly have endured this society?"

"That has no bearing on this situation." Spock's voice was equally gentle. "What matters is that we will get you out of here. Pietro, too, and see to it that Sapphira is punished for what she has done."

"It doesn't matter what she's done to me. I just wish Pietro hadn't had to suffer because we fell in love." Sareenah wrapped herself in a thin blanket--her only covering--as best she could.

Spock couldn't help but feel empathy for her because of his own ordeal at Sapphira's hands. "Your suffering will end soon. Our ship stands ready to assist you with anything you might need."

Sareenah sighed. "The best thing for you to do would be to remove Sapphira from power. She is selfish and sadistic. She had no right to treat Pietro and me so shabbily simply because we fell in love. She may be incapable of loving anyone but herself, but not all of us are like that. Pietro told me what happened when the two of you were here, what Sapphira did to you. But you got away--and even managed to defy her and live to tell about it."

"Which is more than you will," a cold, haughty voice broke in. "No one makes a fool of me and gets away with it."

Spock and Christine whirled to face Sapphira; her face was a mask of malevolence.

The planetary leader looked them up and down. "Well, don't you two look sweet! What are you back here for? You already have the mining rights, and I assure you that I have honored the treaty."

"That is not why we are here this time," Spock replied evenly.

"Then why...? Don't tell me, let me guess. You heard of what happened--how Pietro and this little tart carried on behind my back, then tried to run away together. They're receiving the appropriate punishment according to law, so you can't do thing one about it." Her voice became silky as she sashayed over to the Vulcan.

"Of course, this leaves the position of favorite open, Spock. In spite of what you and your consort did to me, I'm willing to let bygones be bygones. You're still the most attractive man I've ever met and I would be very content to have you as my last lover. In fact, for you I would even consider marriage...something I've never before offered to any man."

"A most flattering proposition, My Lady, but quite impossible. My--affections are already engaged." The Vulcan's refusal was coolly polite but firm. "And even if they were not, it would still be impossible, after what you have done to me."

Sapphira looked Christine over with undisguised contempt. "You would rather stay with this do-gooder? What can she give you that I can't?"

Spock's reply was almost smug. "Something you could not understand. Love."

"Indeed." The word was flat, toneless. "Then I'll have to find someone else."

Even so, both Spock and Christine knew that Sapphira wasn't one to take a turndown lightly, and had to remain on their guard. "I trust your new lover will be treated better than Pietro--or I--was," the Vulcan shot back.

Sapphira's reply was cold and hard. "Pietro got what he deserved. As for you, if it hadn't been for your paramour, you would have gotten the same for refusing me. And if you think I'm going to step down without a fight--"

Sareenah silently cheered her new-found friends as she pulled her blanket tighter around her and drew her knees closer to her, tucking her dirty, bare feet as far beneath her as possible.

"We didn't expect you to," Christine said. "So if you want to stay, I suggest you clean up your act."

Sapphira took a defiant stance. "And if I don't?"

"Then we'll do all in our power to stop you...and rescue the people you've victimized."

"Oh, really. Just the two of you," Sapphira sneered. "What can you do?"

"A lot more than you think," Christine threw back.

"So you and your Federation plan to simply come in and take over." Sapphira's voice was dangerously quiet. "That's what you think." A laser-gun materialized in her hand, and she pointed it at Sareenah. "If either of you make a move, the raphix dies... and her death will be the first of many."

Christine pulled out a phaser from her pocket and pointed it at the other woman. "And yours will be next if you don't hand over that weapon."

"You won't kill me," Sapphira taunted confidently.

"Don't tempt me." The Doctor's tone was ominous.

"Christine, this is not necessary," Spock scolded. "Put the phaser away."

"Not until Sapphira hands over the laser-gun." Her tone was such that even Spock sensed her determination--but neither was he going to back down, especially not in front of Sapphira.

"Now, Christine."

"No." She stood her ground. "Sareenah has committed no crime."

"Yes," a new voice cut in. "Put the weapon away, Miss Chapel. I'll deal with her."

They all turned to find Captain James T. Kirk standing there, obviously having followed them, flanked by three red-shirts, all four with phasers drawn...which didn't surprise Spock one bit. The look in the Captain's eyes was all that was necessary for Christine to do as he wished.

"Who are you?" Sapphira demanded of the newcomer, her weapon hand never wavering. "I insist that you tell me!"

"You're in no position to demand anything. After what you've done, your authority is extremely limited here." Kirk's voice rang with the power of command.

"I am the ruler of this planet. I make the laws here. This woman broke them. I have the right to see her punished."

"Falling in love isn't a crime." Kirk's voice was hard; his phaser remained pointed at Sapphira. "And nothing gives you the right to abuse people on a whim."

Sapphira's voice was icy. "This is none of your affair, Captain. It is outside Federation jurisdiction."

"Not where innocent lives are concerned," Kirk shot back. "Now hand over that laser-gun or else I'll be forced to stun you...and you'll wake up in our Brig, under arrest."

"You wouldn't dare," Sapphira blustered. "Not when I have the weapon pointed at her head."

She held the laser-gun to Sareenah's head, finger on the trigger. Sareenah didn't flinch but paled and trembled with fear for her life. Her eyes met Christine's, giving her the strength she needed, along with the knowledge of Pietro's love.

"As Christine said earlier, if anything happens to her, you'll be next." Kirk's reply was deadly calm. "And I'm not bluffing," he added, aware of her pretense.

Sapphira's glance was equally deadly. "Bluffing, am I? What if I just told you that Pietro is scheduled to be castrated in less than half an hour?"

Kirk turned pale, but his phaser never wavered--nor did those of the three Security officers.

"No!" Sareenah cried in anguish. "Do what you like to me, but leave him alone!"

"Quiet, grafeex," Sapphira snapped.

Spock's eyebrows rose as Christine felt his horror and revulsion at the word, which translated "whore" in the Sapphiran language. He had picked up the rudiments of the language during the original mission three months ago.

Spock, what does that word mean? she asked, dismayed at the strength of his mental shields when she tried to find out the word's meaning.

Later, my wife. Suffice it to say that it is a term of hatred and contempt.

"Please don't let anything happen to Pietro," Sareenah entreated, seeming not to have heard the contrary command. "I couldn't bear it." Her tear-filled eyes pleaded with Kirk, whom she had sensed was in control of the situation, whatever Sapphira believed.

"Nothing will happen if we can help it." His voice was reassuring.

"Oh, really?" Sapphira sneered again. "And just how do you plan to do that? Only I can give the order to stop the castration, and I have no intention of doing that. He deserves it for cheating on me."

It was obvious that she wasn't going to budge any more than Kirk would, so another course of action was in order. No verbal instructions were necessary; even Sareenah seemed to know what to do without being told. Moments later, one of the Security men grabbed Sapphira from behind. They struggled, and her weapon discharged--but harmlessly into thin air, for Sareenah had ducked out of the way seconds before. Then Spock stepped up and rendered Sapphira unconscious with a nerve pinch.

The redshirt carried Sapphira as Setara led them back to Pietro's cell. When they arrived, he was being led out by two guards to where he would be castrated. The two guards were so taken by surprise at the sudden appearance of the Enterprise contingent with the unconscious Sapphira that the other two Security personnel held them at bay with little trouble.

"Release him," Kirk ordered. Their hands dropped.

Pietro marveled at his sudden and unexpected freedom, but that didn't mean he was foolhardy enough to presume too much too soon. At least not until he heard a beloved voice speak to him as he strategically arranged the blanket around himself.

"Pietro."

He looked up, incredulous but happy to see Sareenah standing before him, her own blanket also strategically arranged around her slender body. She was beautiful to him even in her present state, and they threw themselves into each other's arms.

"Sareenah."

He lifted her chin and lowered his face to hers to find her lips. She stood on her tiptoes with her arms around his neck, being a full foot shorter than he at five feet four inches and over one hundred pounds lighter at 115 pounds.

After a tenderly passionate kiss, the two separated and Sareenah gently touched the wounds on Pietro's face. "I'm sorry to have put you through this, beloved," she said. "Can you ever forgive me?"

"There is nothing to forgive," Pietro insisted. "What matters is that we are free and together again, thanks to Spock and Christine." Pietro sighed happily. "They hurt you!" he exclaimed upon looking Sareenah over.

"About the same as they did you," she told him.

Pietro's fighting blood was instantly aroused, but Sareenah's touch kept him in line. Not long afterward, Setara led everyone (except the guards and Sapphira, who were locked in Pietro's former cell temporarily for safekeeping) to where he and Sareenah's injuries could be treated, then they would bathe and dress.

While they waited, Kirk asked if there was any kind of planetwide communications system. "Pietro told me that there is a network which combines radio with satellite linkups," Spock replied.

"Does it reach all the planetary population?" Kirk asked.

"Not all of them; just the segments who have access to it, and they have to pay extra for the service. The rest have simply regular radio service."

"Do you know of a way to get to the ones who have only the regular radio service?"

"I am told there is, but it can only be utilized by those who work at the radio station."

"Is there anyone you know of who can reach both segments?"

"I believe Setara is capable," came the answer. "She is a communications expert."

"Then let's go ask her. If she called Starfleet, she should be willing to help get in touch with the planetary population."

"Logical," said the Vulcan.

"I also think it would be a good idea to announce that there will soon be an end to slavery and I have been authorized to state that anyone who objects will answer to the Federation. They must be made to understand that we have no wish to fight, but will if we have to--and that they will fare the worst for it.
If they're truly peace-loving, they'll give in without bloodshed. Then we'll have an election to pick out the next ruler...and both men and women will be eligible. Once a democratic regime is in place, we can discuss Federation membership. How does that sound?"

Everyone around made affirmative responses, as did Pietro and Sareenah upon their return. They seemed transformed.

She wore a soft, pink floor-length robe with gold trim and sandals, her hair washed and styled in a braided chignon. The large Argelian/Human was dressed in a soft, green-and-black shirt and black pants, also with gold sandals. Both were patched up, but both McCoy, who had beamed down to treat Pietro, and Christine, who had treated Sareenah, said there would be no scarring.

"How does it feel to be clean--and free again?" Kirk asked Pietro with a smile.

Pietro returned it gratefully. "Perfect, Captain." He looked from Kirk to Spock, then back again. "You are the Captain James Kirk Spock has spoken of...his commander and closest friend?"

"The same," Kirk confirmed. "And you've met my Chief Surgeon and another close friend, Leonard McCoy." The Captain gestured to the Doctor, who bowed his head and smiled in Pietro's direction.

"He is very gentle. I felt little pain as he treated my wounds."

"That's Bones, all right," Kirk smiled. "Now we'd better get to the radio/satellite station and get things ironed out here. Does anyone know where it is?"

Setara spoke up. "I work there."

"Fine," Kirk said. "Now how do we get there?"

"We'll take my car. It's right outside."

Not everyone was inclined to go, particularly Pietro and Sareenah. All they wanted was to make up for lost time. The others nodded understandingly, leaving the reunited lovers behind at their quarters while the others piled into Setara's sleek ground-car. Spock and Christine sat in the spacious back seat with Kirk and McCoy; the Security officers were in front with Setara.

"How do you feel, Christine?" McCoy asked. "You told me you felt sick this morning."

"Pretty good. Just a little queasy right now," she assured him.

You are ill? Spock mentally questioned his wife, alarmed that he had been too preoccupied to have felt her physical distress through their bond earlier.

Don't worry, Spock. I'm sure it's nothing. She smiled, and they held hands.

"I still want to examine you once we get back to the ship," McCoy told her.

"Fine," Christine replied absently, only half listening. The rest of her mind was on Spock, savoring the warmth of both his physical and mental touch.

"How long will it take to get to the radio/satellite station?" Kirk asked.

"About forty-five minutes, Captain," Setara responded from the front seat. There was no further conversation until they had arrived.