Author's Note: In Chapter 51, only a few still believe T'Lau and her conspirators pose a credible threat as Founder's Day finally arrives. However, they are soon proved wrong.
Sorry about the lapse in posting, but job responsibilities got in the way. And, as you know, a girl has got to make a living.
As always, your comments are appreciated.
At 4:03 AM in Berkeley's Cesar Chavez Park, Sevat and Spock mirrored each other, as each stood erect with hands clasped behind their backs. Both looked out toward the bay, although their sight was limited to the ambient light available in the pre-dawn hours.
Sevat commented. "Our scientists have run 148,237 permutations given the variables of objects, time, and functions that are known concerning the Enterprise. Still, none of the trials have produced a possible outcome of significant effect to the operation or integrity of the Starship."
"Unfortunately, the efforts of my own research team have also proved as fruitless as the Vulcan Secret Service." Spock remarked.
"Tavok believes the Romulans are not capable of such an complex scheme that could elude our discovery. He contends this has all been a ruse for us to spend valuable time and resources on a work of fiction."
"Tavok is a fool."
"He is considered one of the most esteemed members of the Vulcan Science Academy and serves as a trusted advisor to the VSS."
Spock retorted, "That fact makes no difference in my estimation of him. He is reminiscent of those of the Dark Ages when our ancient ancestors dismissed concepts and phenomenon they did not understand. Humans chide us for our hubris and I dare say there are times when I cannot refute that charge."
"The coming hours will prove you or Tavok right." Sevat said. "It would be best for all, if the latter came to fruition."
Spock turned slightly toward his former nemesis. "Sevat, if I did not know better, I would believe your comment expressed concern for my well-being."
Sevat raised an eyebrow as he turned to tell him, "Well, it is fortunate you do know me better than to think I would ever harbor such a sentimental thought towards you."
Silence.
The two Vulcans stared out across the bay once more.
Sevat commented coolly, "If tragedy does befall the Enterprise, the VSS will neither confirm or deny knowing anything of the plot."
"Our leaders will not even admit the existence of the VSS." Spock responded. "Despite the circumstance, I would be naïve to believe they would take this opportunity to suddenly become transparent regarding their espionage activities on alien soil."
Sevat remarked, "It is my understanding dignitaries scheduled to board the Enterprise for its ceremonial flight have not been alerted to the possible threat."
"That is correct." Spock answered.
"Your father will be among them."
"Yes." Spock answered tersely.
Nothing more needed to be said. Both knew Sarek would be highly offended at even the suggestion he might consider not coming on board due to the potential for danger.
"You will continue to shadow Nyota, today."
"As I did, yesterday." Sevat responded. "However, I must admit I was somewhat taken aback by your distasteful behavior with Nyota at the Daedalus Astrophysics Lab."
"I have a feeling I should not make this inquiry; however, I am curious what I could have done to displease you."
"For one, you were in rather close vicinity to her person in a public place. I am sure your juxtaposition to the Cadet may not have seemed out of place to the casual viewer, but your proximity would appear unseemly to a more perceptive eye."
"You mean a Vulcan eye."
"Or Romulan. T'Lau would not have taken kindly to the sight."
"I knew T'Lau was making final system checks with her team. She had no reason to come to the Academy campus that day. In fact, T'Lau sent word she will not be present for Founder's Day activities, today. She claimed it was not in her contract to participate in such festivities."
"Perhaps, she is taking the time to make ready your new home for the two of you to share. I am sure she is quite anxious to demonstrate other skills than those of the bedroom."
"Sevat, do you not have anything else of a productive nature to add to the conversation?"
"You, at least, knew I would be watching you and Nyota."
"Yesterday's encounter? Have we returned to that subject once again? At that moment, my thoughts were certainly not with you."
"Decorum should not be an afterthought in a public forum." Savek paused for several seconds, then added, "At one point, I witnessed Nyota's removal of the red scarf from about her neck and presenting it to you as if it were a trophy. What possibly could you have told her to evoke such a display?"
Spock turned back to Sevat. "How keen were your observations. Your protestations appear quite strong for one who supposedly has only a professional interest in the matter. Otherwise, one would think a hint of envy had arisen."
"Do not assign such base human emotions to me, Spock." Sevat replied. "Upon your request, did I not consent to serve as Nyota's guardian during this period? In this role, should I not identify actions that may put her or this mission in jeopardy?"
Spock suspected Sevat held more than just a professional concern for Nyota. Yet, he thought such an attraction might make him more attentive to his task than not. Thus, he decided not to press the matter.
"It is time." Spock announced. "At 5 AM, I am scheduled to board a shuttlecraft to the Enterprise. You will need to travel to the campus to follow Nyota once she reports to the Academy Ambassadors Office at 6 AM."
"I am well aware of the schedule, Spock. It is you who should be on your way. My communicator contains the number you gave me for Admiral Pok in case there is a breakthrough in our investigation and I can no longer contact you."
As Spock placed his left arm to his side, the explosive device embedded below the skin grazed across his thigh. Thinking of his mortality, he stated, "With my mother being a human, it may be quite difficult for her to lose both husband and son at one time, if this treachery comes to pass. Please let her know . . . "
Spock halted his speech, now feeling it to be futile to ask another Vulcan to relay a message he had not been able to deliver himself - Mother, I love you.
"Spock." Sevat called to him. "Make haste to speak your mind. There is little time for contemplation."
"Please let her know she need not be concerned with her financial affairs. The Ambassador's will and other legal documents have long been prepared to ensure property and fiscal matters will be handled to her benefit for the remainder of her life."
Sevat remarked, "Is that your revelation, Spock? Why would she expect otherwise from a Vulcan?"
"I asked you to serve as the messenger, not as an analyst." Spock replied dispassionately. "Despite what you may believe, the news will provide my mother with some measure of comfort."
"Should I deliver similar lines to Nyota if your time draws to a close?"
She knows. Spock told himself; unexpectedly comforted by this realization. Nyota knows I love her. Feeling no need to share this knowledge with Sevat, Spock walked away without another word.
As Sevat watched his fellow Vulcan depart, his thoughts drifted back to the scene he stealthily viewed yesterday at the Astrophysics Lab. He recalled how Spock and Nyota stood side by side. And, while they were not physically touching, Sevat witnessed a closeness between them that transcended corporeal awareness.
Sevat remembered how Spock inclined his head slightly and lowered his voice so only the East African could hear him. Then, as if to stifle a gasp, how quickly her hand came to cover her mouth as she heard his words. Her face filled with a mixture of shock and . . . delight.
What did he tell her? The Vulcan pondered. How does he move her so?
At 5:00 AM, Uhura awakened feeling a bit queasy. Since she had never before experienced morning sickness, the Cadet thought it was probably long overdue for her to finally feel its effects. Since she was not yet ready to make her pregnancy known to others, Uhura convinced Dr. Leonard McCoy to remain as her primary care physician. However, with the way I'm feeling this morning, she thought, it might now be time to ask to be assigned to a gynecologist.
Uhura took a deep breath; determined not to let her condition get in the way of fulfilling her duties. She awakened Gaila and went about readying herself for the day's activities.
As the two uniformed roommates left the dorm, Gaila called to Uhura as she began to part from the Orion.
"Hey, Uhura, where are you going? According to the schedule, we actually have time for breakfast."
"Nothing for me this morning." The East African replied.
"You're refusing breakfast?" Gaila feigned surprise. "Aren't you the one who tells me all the time that it's the most important meal of the day?"
"Maybe that was me in another life. Today, I don't think I can even look at a plate of food."
"Hey . . . " Gaila said as she drew closer to Uhura, looking at her curiously. "I guess I was too busy getting dressed to notice when we were in the room, but you don't look too good."
"Thanks." Uhura answered with a sarcastic edge.
"Did you eat that whole box of chocolates you received last night?"
"Gaila, there were four pieces and I only ate one of them."
"Then, maybe you should just go to the Medical Treatment Facility and report in sick."
"Look, if I feel like I need anything, I'll just go to one of those mobile medical units they have set up all over campus for the festivities. I'm sure they can give me something that will make me feel better."
"All right. But why go to the Academy Ambassadors Office so early. Do you really want them to think you are that eager to answer stupid questions about the Academy?"
"Gaila, it's not that bad and I really do enjoy it." Uhura replied. "And, anyways, I need to get there a little early to see if anyone has an extra scarf I could borrow."
"The one you usually wear around your next when you act as a tour guide?"
"Right."
"I saw you with one yesterday. What happened to it?"
A smile came to her lips as Uhura thought of the probable use of the scarf by Spock last evening. However, she knew she could not share that insight with the Orion.
Uhura quipped, "A friend needed it."
"I think that's the third or fourth scarf you've given away."
"Oh, really?" Uhura answered, as she began to make her way toward the Academy Ambassadors Office.
Gaila found herself almost halfway to the cafeteria, when she remembered something she had wanted to tell her roommate. She stopped for a moment and quickly wrote a text, BTF problem solved. Try all at once. TTUL.
By 8:49 AM, Spock had already walked every hallway of the StarShip Enterprise. With iTablet in hand, he had checked, and then double-checked each of the vessel's major systems with Chief Engineer Colin Morrison.
"Does the results of the inspection finally meet with your satisfaction, Mr. Spock?" Morrison asked, weary of the activity.
"I will be satisfied after we have completed our flight with no incident. Until then, all senior officers must remain vigilant."
"My engineering crew have run numerous diagnostics of all systems for the last 48 hours. As far as I can see, she's perfect in every way. I doubt if any other StarShip in the entire quadrant can match her."
"I require your systems checks reports according to schedule at 15 minutes intervals."
"I thought this was a day of celebration, sir. Not one to be weighed down in busywork."
"You have your orders, Morrison. I expect for them to be carried out to the letter."
Morrison gave the Vulcan a look, but he knew there would be no use in further discussion. Spock gave no indication he would change his mind. And, as he learned on their previous tour, Captain Pike never reversed a decision of his First Officer.
"Yes, sir, Mr. Spock." Morrison replied. "You will receive all reports according to plan."
Spock took the turbolift to the bridge. There, he found the crew busy with their activities, yet seemingly relaxed. After seventeen previous trial flights, the novelty of the new StarShip had certainly diminished. Although initiation of their five year tour was now only a month away, Spock noticed most had settled into a routine one could find on any Starfleet vessel. That is, with the exception of Captain Pike who walked about the bridge with a gleam in his eye like a child in receipt of a new toy. The Vulcan knew his commanding officer still took the potential threat seriously, but at the moment the Captain relished the opportunity to show off the new Starfleet flagship to their guests.
Spock took his seat at his station, as Communications Officer Ajmal Khosa called to the Captain.
"Sir, our first guests have arrived via shuttlecraft and await permission to come aboard."
"Permission granted, Mr. Khosa." Pike responded. "Have Lt. Commander Matafeo escort those designated to come to the bridge. I believe Ensign Asuni is already present to take the others on a ship's tour."
"Yes, sir." Khosa replied before relaying the message to the shuttlecraft bay.
Pike discussed the flight plan once more with Helmsman Oshima before walking over to the Vulcan's station. "What were the results of the systems check, Spock?"
"Negative, sir. However, the Chief Engineer will continue to run diagnostics and provide regular reports."
"If there is no delay, all of our guests will be in board by 9:30 AM and we will begin our hour-long ceremonial flight at 10." Pike remarked. "Let us hope the flight is uneventful."
The turbolift door opened and allowed its occupants to enter the bridge. Having previously memorized the names and faces of the expected bridge guests, Pike personally greeted each dignitary, which included Sarek and other Federation Ambassadors. However, the last person to leave the lift was quite unexpected.
"Jack." Pike called to his 13-year-old son as he stepped onto the bridge. "What are you doing here?"
"I won." The boy told him, delighted by his father's surprised look. "I won the contest at school to be on board for the Enterprise's first flight." Jack then looked to the First Officer and said, "Hello, Mr. Spock."
Spock turned around from his console to acknowledge Pike's son with a slight nod.
"Hey, did you know your Dad is here? Or, at least, I think that's your Dad from the pictures I've seen of him." Jack observed.
Spock quickly scanned the bridge with his eyes until he saw Sarek, listening stoically to the ramblings of the Tellarite Ambassador.
"Ambassador Sarek is among those invited to expereince our ceremonial flight." Spock answered. "If you will excuse me, I must return to my duties."
"Jack, I think you might find the navigation system interesting." Pike commented. "Ensign Oshima will be glad to explain it to you."
"You want me to get lost for a while, right?" Jack remarked, not waiting for an answer as he headed toward the helmsman.
Pike then changed his tone as he looked to the visitors' escort, Matafeo, and sternly charged, "Lieutenant, didn't you tell me the contest had been cancelled?"
"I am sorry, sir." Matafeo answered, hearing the displeasure in the Captain's voice. "But, when I found out your son won the contest, I thought it would be a nice surprise if you did not know about it ahead of time. I admit I intentionally left him off your list."
"You have served with me long enough to know I am not one to break with protocol under any circumstance. We will discuss this matter in more detail after the day's activities. You may now go to your post."
"Yes, sir." Matafeo dutifully replied and then went to her station..
Spock, who had heard the talk between Pike and Matafeo, understood the reason behind the Captain's discontent better than anyone else on the bridge. Pike had been relieved when he initially thought the contest had been cancelled. While Starfleet personnel and Federation representatives could not shirk their duty even in the presence of a credible threat, innocent lives should not be put in jeopardy. Now that his son was on board, Pike could not order him off without arousing what may be undue concern.
Spock turned his head slightly to notice how Pike had made his way to his son's side and placed a hand briefly on Jack's shoulder. It was a loving gesture that would probably go unnoticed by most others on the bridge. In contrast, when Sarek entered the bridge, the Ambassador displayed no sign to acknowledge Spock. The uninformed would hardly believe Sarek and the First Officer even knew each other. Spock doubted he could ever be as demonstrative with his own child as Pike was with Jack. Yet, being amongst humans for the last 12 years, he found himself wanting something more than the more formal parent-child relationship practiced by Vulcans.
Nyota will teach me. He thought as he turned back to his console. She will make sure our child will know love.
At 9:43 AM, Uhura escorted a group of Elasians to one of the auditoriums where visitors could view Enterprise bridge operations. However, the Cadet did not stay to witness the flight. Loosening the red scarf she had borrowed from around her neck, she steadied herself against a railing. While she kept up a seemingly pleasant front while giving tours that morning, she felt her condition had worsened instead of improved. Concerned, as beads of perspiration formed on her forehead, she headed toward one of the mobile medical units. There, two tall female medical technicians warmly greeted her.
"Welcome to Med Unit 11." One said.
"Yes, Cadet, what can we do for you?" The other technician told the East African.
The linguist could not help, but detect their tone of voice appeared somewhat stilted. However, she knew she had a more important issue at the moment.
"I am not feeling well." She told them. "I think if I had a chance to lay down for a few minutes, I would feel better."
"Of course." One told her. "You've been on your feet all morning and have not had anything to eat today."
How did she know that? Uhura wondered, as one of them helped her into the back of the unit and had her lay down on the stretcher.
"We'll take your vitals to see how you are doing."
Uhura sighed, relieved to be off her feet. "I know I'm not the one with medical training, but don't you need to know something about me before giving medical treatment?"
"It's all right, Ms. Uhura." The technician told her, as she began to take her blood pressure.
"Wait a minute." The East African said, as she tried to raise herself up. "I never told you my name."
Uhura suddenly heard the sound of the mobile unit door close. Realizing the danger, she tried to swing her fist at the technician, but in her weakened condition was quickly overpowered.
"Settle down, Ms. Uhura." The technician said as the unit began to move. "You don't want to put undue stress on the embryo."
"How did you know I am pregnant?" Uhura cried out and struggled in vain, as the technician placed her in restraints. "How could you know that?"
The technician picked up a hypo and turned it to Uhura's shoulder. "This will help you sleep."
"No . . . no . . . what are you doing? That might hurt the baby."
"Ms. Uhura, why would we do anything to harm the child?" She said as she administered the hypo. "The Pedosians love babies. You can be assured the embryo will be lovingly nurtured and developed throughout the prenatal period until it is time for birth by the surrogate. You can count on that."
"No . . . " She tried to speak, as she could feel herself lose consciousness. "Can't take my baby . . . my baby . . . my baby . . . "
At 9:46 AM, Jack stood near his father's command chair and asked, "What will be our warp speed, Dad? . . . I mean, Captain, sir." The boy quickly corrected himself, knowing his father demanded formality while on duty.
"Jack, we'll be traveling at impulse, not warp speed. We're just taking a trip about the galaxy so our guests and the viewing audience can see how well the ship operates. We'll be going on live in a few minutes, so . . . "
"I know, sir. I won't be in your way. I thought I might hang out with Mr. Spock."
"As my First Officer, Mr. Spock may not have an opportunity to carry on much of a conversation."
Jack looked back at the Vulcan whose hands appeared to fly across his console, while reading the latest diagnostic report from the Chief Engineer.
"I see what you mean." Jack commented. "Maybe I'll go talk with his Dad for a while."
"Jack, you should address him as Ambassador Sarek."
"Yes, sir. I won't forget." His son said as he made his way to the elder Vulcan, who had finally rid himself of the Tellarite Ambassador.
"Good luck with that." The Captain remarked within earshot of his First Officer, who found the prospect of a discussion between the human adolescent and the elder Vulcan to be quite humorous.
As Pike checked his monitor for reports on the ship's readiness to take flight, he took notice of the seemingly one-sided conversation Jack attempted to have with Sarek, who stood erect with hands clasped behind his back. To Pike's relief, the Ambassador at least, appeared cordial as he provided several terse replies. The Captain then took note when Sarek seemed to incline his head in the direction of a young yeoman on the bridge. Jack nodded and then raised his hand in anticipation of shaking hands with the Vulcan. The elder statesman stared at the teenager's outstretched hand for a few moments, and then finally acquiesced for a quick, but firm shake.
After Jack moved on to the young yeoman, Pike noticed Sarek looking toward his own son. He stood observing the younger Vulcan, as Spock worked busily at his post unaware of the older man's attention. Pike smiled to himself, wondering if the Ambassador's encounter with Jack somehow encouraged the statesman's focus on Spock.
"Captain Pike." Khosa called to him. "I have received a message from Admiral Pok that they are ready to begin transmission of bridge activities in 2 minutes."
Pike retroted. "Then lets get the show on the road. Mr. Spock?"
The Vulcan checked the latest report from Morrison, then stated, "Engineering ready, sir."
"Ensign Khosa, please open a ship-wide communications channel."
"Channel open, sir."
"All hands get ready for imminent departure."
"Sir, transmission beginning in 5 seconds – 4 – 3 – 2 – 1 – Now."
Poised and confident, the commanding officer looked straight ahead to one of the ship's camera and began. "Good morning. I am Captain Christopher Pike of the USS Enterprise. My crew and I would like to welcome you to our inaugural voyage in honor of the founding of the United Federation of Planets."
At 11:46 AM, Pike finally took a relaxing breath. The flight had gone without incident and he was able to answer questions from the Terran-based audience with ease. The ship now was on course to return to space dock in less than 10 minutes. All of the ship's guests seemed to be engaged with learning about various aspects of the ship's capabilities. The Captain glanced over to his son who appeared to have long lost interest in the flight. He seemed oblivious to bridge activities as he talked with the young yeoman about one of his favorite bands.
Then, suddenly . . .
"Captain Pike." Matafeo called from her station. "Our ship is being probed from an external source."
"Lieutenant, can you identify the source?" Pike asked.
"It must be emanating from a ship, sir." She answered. "However, our sensors are not picking up any other vessel nearby."
"It could be a ship using a cloaking device, sir. " Spock interjected. "The Romulans have such . . . "
"Mr. Spock!" Pike heard his son exclaim. Even before he turned his head to look toward the Vulcan's station, the Captain knew what he would find . . . Spock's empty chair. His First Officer had been transported off the bridge.
A rush of adrenalin brought new energy to the Captain, as he opened a ship-wide channel. "Red alert!"
At 11:51 AM, Spock materialized on a transporter pad of a Romulan vessel. As he straightened his body from his former seated position, five Romulans armed with phasers surrounded him. Spock offered no resistance as one of the security men quickly removed Spock's combadge and crushed it under his foot.
The transporter room doors opened to allow the entrance of a woman dressed in a uniform of a high-ranking Romulan officer. When she turned her face toward him, it did not take Spock long to recognize the woman who had stolen T'Lau's identity. Her first words were to the security personnel.
"Did you search him?"
"Not yet, Commander." One replied.
She snapped. "What are you waiting for? A demotion?
Under her watchful eye, the lead security officer gave Spock a thorough pat down. He then reported, "I could find nothing, Commander."
"Leave me." She commanded.
None dared to question her as the security officers and transporter personnel obeyed her directive and left the room.
With her eyes locked on Spock, she walked about him to enjoy her prize. Spock moved his hand over to his forearm to touch the location of the imbedded explosive device. From what he could recall about Romulan ship design, an explosion in the transporter room may not effectively cripple the vessel. He realized, if the action became necessary, the detonation would better be initiated in another part of the vessel."
Spock asked, "With your plan in motion, I would hardly think you would have time for sightseeing."
She laughed. "Who said Vulcans do not have a sense of humor?"
"You said you would reveal all. Is this not the time?"
"No need to rush this moment, Spock." She told him, with naked desire in her eyes.
"Could we at least begin with your actual name?"
"Clymene."
Spock remarked, "This may be a name you have given yourself, but it is not your birth name."
Intrigued, she asked, "Why do you make such an assumption?"
"Clymene means praiseworthy might. This is hardly the trait of someone who would steal the identity of another and then murder to cover her trail of deceit."
She smiled, "My biological parents named me Paulina1and then left me to die at the hospital because I was underweight at birth. Like good Romulans, they could not be bothered with a child that might possess special needs."
"Yet, you survived."
"I was taken home by a pediatrician who thought if I survived, I might be a good companion for her daughter."
"You mean as her daughter's servant."
"Yes." She reluctantly admitted. "However, as I grew I surpassed all expectations and proved to my adoptive parents who was truly worthy of their affection. By the age of 10, I had usurped my sister's role in their hearts and minds."
"Your upbringing certainly seemed to have prepared you for your current profession." Spock commented.
"Fortunately, our child will not have to struggle to prove himself as I had to do. He will have a place of honor as soon as he is born."
"Our child?"
"Did I not tell you I would secure the product of your seed as we began our life together?"
Spock took a moment to suppress his anger, before asking in a voice feigning dispassion, "How could such a thing be accomplished?"
"Just before you were brought on board, I received word the embryo was successfully removed and transplanted into a surrogate. Upon his birth, our family will be complete."
"And, Ms. Uhura?" Spock asked. "What happened to Ms. Uhura?"
"What's this?" The Romulan Commander exclaimed. "Do I hear a note of concern in your voice for that whore?"
"Is Ms. Uhura on the ship?" He pressed her for an answer.
Clymene paused to look at Spock, as if she were seeing him now for the first time. She then told him, "I have risked much to bring you on this ship. Do not make me regret my decision. I swear, your death will not be a pleasant one if you show me that my affections have been misplaced!"
Clymene's combadge signaled the Commander's attention. "Speak." She tersely stated.
"Commander, our monitoring of the Starship Enterprise has revealed the auto-destruct sequence has been activated, as planned. The Captain has given the order to evacuate the ship."
"Evacuation is futile." She sneered. "The escape pods will not have enough time to distance themselves far enough away from the ship before it explodes in less than five minutes."
"Commander, it appears the Enterprise crew has found a way to reset the default to 20 minutes."
"They have reset the default? How is that possible?"
"It appears they have assistance from a Vulcan onboard . . . Ambassador Sarek. He convinced the Captain to allow him to remain with him and a skeleton crew of senior officers."
Sarek's actions did not surprise Spock. As an esteemed scientist, the elder Vulcan would see it as his duty to try to figure out a way to save lives and, if possible, the ship.
The Romulan officer continued his report. " We estimate at least 50% of its passengers will be able to survive."
"How much time remains?" She asked.
"Sixteen minutes, 41 seconds."
"Very well. I will be on the bridge shortly." The Commander remarked before disengaging her combadge.
Spock asked, "How were you able to trigger the auto-destruct sequence?"
"Patience, my love." She brought her hand to his ear and began to caress its tip. "I will have security take you to my quarters until after our victory has come full bloom."
"I would like to join you on the bridge." Spock remarked. "You could grant me such permission."
She paused in contemplation and then told him, "As my consort, it is fitting you are at my side to witness this glorious moment. However, I will not have you dressed in Federation rags. In my cabin, you will find I have provided a proper wardrobe for you. Once you are ready, I will give instructions for security to take you to me."
The Commander touched her combadge to signal her security detail. Upon entering, they flanked Spock and awaited her command.
She told them, "Take Mr. Spock to my quarters. After he has attired himself, bring him to the bridge."
"Yes, Commander." The lead security officer answered.
"And, Spock." She looked him in the eye and told him in an unwavering voice. "There must be no more talk of your whore. It would be illogical to now do so. You see, after the embryo was removed, I gave the order for her body to be disposed of with the rest of the trash."
Author's Note: I am trying my best to complete the last chapter as soon as possible. I am hopeful it will be up in 2-3 days. No, Uhura is not dead, but . . . you'll have to wait until the next chapter to find out what has happened.
Your comments are always appreciated.
1 Paulina translates as "small."