Chapter Ten
A Taste of Honey
When they returned to the house Dr. Blake had also come to enjoy last meal. He was in actuality, a fixture in the home; having commandeered the sofa in the family room as a place he could park his slippers.
His words to M'Binga upon his friend's return were,
"Lovely day, I would say…"
"Agreed," was his friend's reply.
At the table, all was silent. It was The Vulcan Way practiced in this home.
Once the dishes were cleared, conversation started in earnest.
McCoy/Blake inquired,
"How was your tour Mrs. M'nuk K'sal. I hope M'Binga took you to see the waterfall?"
She replied,
"I was quite impressed. This is no primitive, back water settlement. I was pleasantly surprised and relieved and yes, I got a view of the waterfalls. It seems every place where intelligent life gathers in cities, settlements or such, selects a 'must see' for visitors. So as a cooperative soul, I have fulfilled my obligation on that score."
Her daughter interjected, "Momma, we are under Vulcan control and supervision, that puts us in an entire different category".
In actuality, her daughter's words were a prerequisite to events that followed shortly.
McCoy had felt fortunate to have received into his home his mother-in-law. Perhaps female humans had an innate need for their mothers during their gestation period. Her mood, and sense of contentment returned once her mother had come to her.
He had observed his visitor, who was as beautiful as his wife, but of completely different charater. She was indeed a take-charge person, full of valuable suggestions, and untiring in her labors. No doubt these characteristics had its foundation in her life that had been focused on raising, essentually by herself, her children. For a certainty, she was a selfless individual. His eyes drifted toward Dr. M'Binga and he wondered whether they were truly combatable. Both were driven individuals, but on different levels. One driven by the heart, the other by the mind.
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Just as a way of giving notice, the clinic received a notice from Star Fleet and The Vulcan High a regular inspection visit was scheduled. This in itself did not cause concern because the clinic did not fall under Vulcan control. Instead, it was a satellite and research facility of Star Fleet.
The real concern to M'Binga was the presence of Sarek as the part of this specialized committee. Of course the group would be greeted by the settlement's appointed governor, The Honorable Chin'a Lus Val'nek. M'Binga was certain that the clinic's personal would be required at the 'beam down' and the gala afterward. He made a mental note to request Elsse presence as his guest.
But, there were certain problems; Sarek knew Dr. Leonard McCoy very well. Then, also, S'chn T'gai McCoy was Sarek's grandson and he had never met his great grandson, Blake, so personal interaction would be an expected. The big mountain-like problem was Spock and Nyota, Sarek's children—it certainly would not bode well in a family relationships with the discovery of a living ex, deemed first MIA, then dead, but living, How would this bit of deception fit into Vulcan mindset founded on absolute justice.
In addition, T'Prie's due date was during the scheduled visit. Based on those circumstances, M'Binga was certain that there would be personal interaction between the clinic and Sarek. Etched in concrete was the fact that Vulcans do not lie, and have an unfading memory. Thus it would seem a request for Sarek to join in the ruse involving Leonard McCoy would go beyond what would be acceptable to 'The Vulcan Way'.
During the months prior to this event M'Binga noticed a sharp decline in his friend's general health. He tired quite easily and used as an excuse, "I can't seem to sleep at night." Of course, M'Binga knew, as did his friend, that his complaints were symptoms of the disease's progression. His friend still put in a full day, but at a slower pace. At the end of a work week his friend gestured to him so he followed him into his office.
Gesturing for his friend to be seated, he eased himself into his place behind his desk,
"Geof, I know I don't have too much more time. Surprisingly, most of what I wanted to accomplish has been completed. I guess you will be glad to know I am going to coast to the end. My friend, I ask you this favor, serve as my executor and step in as 'father' and 'grandfather' to my family. I have been truly fortunate to have you as my friend…how many years?"
McCoy/Blake's friend responded,
"We met, during the welcoming ceremony at the Academy…Your gruff exterior didn't fool me, I knew you were a 'softy'. So, right back at you Leonard, thank you…"
M'Binga blinked and reached up to trap the moisture forming in his eyes. He raised his eyes and realized his friend was dealing with that same issue.
Goef continued,
"We are both scientist and recognize the reality of inevitability. We understand it in our minds, but our hearts are closed to true acceptance of that concept. That is why I present to you this question, 'What else can be medically done to extend your time?"
Leonard sighed,
"Probably a heart transplant could help but I am not the type of person who could fit into that type of anti-rejection regimentation. You know, for that option I would have to return to Terra…unthinkable. Geof, this is my home. I would rather die here, then live on Terra. Besides my life with Nyota, what pull would that place have for me. My family, McCoy, Blake, T'Prie, the new baby…and you, are all here. To leave here not knowing if I could ever return, to stay, holds no joy for me. Believe me, to die old, satisfied and surrounded by love trumps the other option.
I have checked my scans, my life of excesses, too much to drink and too little sleep, have not contributed toward my wish for extra longevity. I have accepted my future…"
With a rueful smile he continued,
"Not with open arms mind you, but with a submissive bowed head. Georf, when I am gone, I need you to take care of my business and my family. Although I will legally leave the business to McCoy, he has youth on his side, he will continue to need mature guidance—you. Grant me this."
"Rest assured Len, I do understand and I will serve in place of you."
"So that I do not appear to be completely out of character…"
Leonard McCoy reached into his drawer and pulled out a still full bottle of bourbon and poured two shot glasses.
"I'chamm, To Life," Len said as he raised his glass.
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