Author's Note: ETA: To my readers: I must be honest and tell you that I'm not up for receiving negativity at this time. My status as an unpaid fanfic writer makes me more human than you think, really. Especially after finishing a complex, very detailed oriented, almost 250K word fic that literally took sweat and tears - and one year - to complete. Negativity kills an author's inspiration and is usually hurtful. And I don't need it in my life nor do I want it. That is all on this matter... I'd appreciate your tact. Thank you.
This is it! I had a last minute change of plans - I honestly was going to finish Indigenous with an epilogue of epic proportions. But, after reconsidering the idea and asking the opinion of Rubyhair, my beta reader, I've decided that the epilogue would work best and make a greater impact as a shorter sequel. So, there's the trade-off. :) This is the final chapter of this story but for reasons you will soon understand, the saga will continue. Thank you so much for hanging in there with me! Hope you enjoy the read!
Trigger warning: mention of suicide. More notes at the end.
Jim drummed his fingers along the table in the Forward Observation Lounge. Captain Roark was late and Jim's patience was running thin.
According to Bones, Jim's shift was over in a few hours. Three to be exact, and Roark's late arrival encroached on those already limited hours. Yesterday, Jim managed to squeeze in a little more time investigating Roark's records before returning to his quarters but today Jim wouldn't be so lucky. Bones wholeheartedly agreed with Sheffield's warning during Jim's follow-up exam this morning. The ophthalmologist ordered him to take it easy for a few more days, since the work he'd had to do out of necessity may have caused some slight strain. Then, Bones went as far as to remind Jim of his headache the day before, and both doctors firmly suggesting that he avoid copious amounts of paperwork or further research on any device for another week, and instead, ease into it. Jim took the hint. He acquiesced, if only to lessen Bones' worry. Other than that, he was in the clear but still only approved for half-shifts and this current one was quickly coming to an end. Jim wouldn't be able to twist the doctor's arm for more time.
Pushing away from the table, Jim stood and turned to peer at the Thriuna star system through the viewscreen. He recalled being patient when it had been necessary as captain of the Enterprise, but it hadn't always been a virtue that came easy to him. As Re'an, patience would always be required, and he was failing miserably right now. Admittedly, he was impatient, but not because he wanted this 'briefing' over and done with. The truth, or what he'd hoped would be the truth, was literally one transport away and he needed the truth as soon as possible. Hearing it in the lounge where he'd thrown his mother off of his ship seemed more than fitting. Directing the 'briefing' with Roark and his mother here was a calculated move on his part, emphasizing his control in spite of the whirlwind of chaos that his mother brought to his life and to the Enterprise.
Captain.
Spock, any word? Spock initiated his shields awhile ago but their bond had clearly broadened again and Jim was more than happy to use their bond for discrete communication between them, especially in this circumstance.
Captain Roark has arrived. I shall escort him to the Observation Lounge upon your word.
You may proceed now, Commander. Jim frowned and crossed his arms. And my mother?
She has also arrived. Spock paused. Elise senses that she will act as formal with you as possible until you give her permission to speak. She wishes for me to tell you that you must not mistake your mother's aloofness incorrectly.
Interesting. Jim rubbed his jaw. Is it because of Roark?
He is her superior, on the Isis and quite possibly within this organization.
True.
Your mother also does not wish to overstep her boundaries and upset you like she did before.
Jim placed a hand on the transparent aluminum, leaning as he shook his head in disgust. Now she wants to follow protocol? It seemed just like his mother to change her mind in an attempt to confuse Jim. Why is Elise not telling me this herself?
She cannot alternate her telepathy between you and the commander without risking your well-being as well as your confidence and strategy for the briefing.
Agreed. She must be careful.
When his mother and Captain Roark stepped onto the deck, Jim immediately understood Elise's forewarning. Winona was quiet, her expression well-guarded. In contrast, Roark's smile filled the room and it took Jim a few seconds to adjust to the exuberance and energy of the other captain.
"Captain Kirk, it is a pleasure to finally meet Starfleet's golden boy," Roark said, smiling.
The tactless comment found a mark, but it wasn't Jim. Spock's shoulders visibly stiffened and his eyes fixated fiercely upon Roark as if he were his worst enemy.
At ease, commander. It's fine, Spock. Somehow, Jim was not surprised that Roark had made a grand entrance with this kind of statement. Whether he truly meant it to hurt Jim or point out the obvious, Jim didn't care. He didn't care to play any of their games, today or ever.
It is not fine, Captain. It is clearly an attempt to damage your confidence.
And I will ignore it. No harm done.
"Captain Roark, I'm sure you won't mind if we proceed with the briefing here," Jim nodded from his seat, refusing to respond properly as expected. "It's a little unorthodox but I prefer the view."
"Captain Kirk, I'm glad to meet another Starfleet captain who's not afraid to break tradition," Roark said. "It's more than acceptable, considering your recent circumstances. I understand that it's only been twenty-four hours since your sight has returned."
"Yes, it has, and I appreciate your understanding," Jim said.. "Have a seat, Captain Roark, Commander Kirk."
Roark settled into a chair beside Winona. "I've been ordered to clear some things up for you and also to confirm that what Commander Kirk told you is the truth. We balance the powers, Kirk. Nothing more, nothing less."
"By all means, let's get straight to the point," Jim said easily. "First, however, you have to understand that it will be difficult to accept your words at face value."
"Red Tail was expecting you to say that," Roark said.
"Red Tail?" Spock asked. "He is your superior, I assume."
"Yes, Mr. Spock. Red Tail is the head of Project Raptor, our organization."
"A bird of prey," Spock said. "A fascinating choice to describe a shadow organization."
"You and Commander Kirk are his eyes," Jim said, drawing the same conclusion he had yesterday that his mother's superior was, indeed, quite clever.
"We are, among others," Roark nodded. "Although, it was his own observations years ago which first set things in motion."
"And what specifically did he observe?" Jim asked.
"Suspicious behavior of certain individuals. A slow burn for power."
"So he is in a position where he can make these observations himself? A position of significant rank in Starfleet?" Jim wouldn't hold his breath that Roark would answer that but it was worth the try.
"I will have to be on my toes with you, Kirk. Let's just say he knows how to work his assets."
Roark pushed a PADD across the table. Jim glanced up at the other captain.
Roark nodded in encouragement. "Red Tail asked me to give you this. You are to read his message, preferably before we begin."
"I assume that you also read it?" Jim asked, taking the device into his hands.
"No," Roark leaned forward, clasping his hands together on the table. "He wants to gain your cooperation. I'd be foolish to foil his plan by looking at something he ordered me at point blank to ignore.
"I see," Jim said, eyes upon the screen as the silhouetted image of a raptor appeared. He pressed his finger against the center of the bird and read the message quietly to himself.
And was ill-prepared for its content.
The captain's own shields went up the minute he took the device in his hands and began to read. Spock did not take offense at the direct block. He was pleased that Jim was able to control their bond in a precarious situation for it was logical to believe that Red Tail would use something of the captain's past to reveal his trustworthiness. Jim had already suffered from numerous intrusions. He did not need to experience further encroachment of his privacy. However, Spock immediately deduced that the message had made a great impact, enough to secure the captain in his chair for another full minute in silence. Jim's expression was guarded, giving no indication if the message impacted him one way or another. Even his hands were steady, belying nothing of the fact that sixteen point four hours earlier, he had experienced great anxiety upon seeing his own reflection.
"If you will excuse me for a few moments, I have a pressing matter to tend to," Jim finally said, without looking up.
Roark's brow furrowed slightly. "Shall we convene at another time, captain? I am more than willing to adjust to your schedule."
It was Roark's most honest and polite statement since his arrival, and perhaps the very reason Jim sent him a cursory look before standing to his feet. "I prefer that you remain here with Mr. Spock until my return, if you don't mind. I won't be long."
Spock, I'll be in the ready room. It won't take long. Do not allow them to leave.
Understood, captain.
Without waiting for a response, Jim exited the room in a flurry.
"Red Tail's safeguards are always very interesting," Roark mused aloud. "My own took two weeks to complete. It was quite the scavenger hunt, but I was more than willing to submit to his guidance at the end of those fourteen days. I admit that I'm very curious. I'd like to know how he is going to convince your captain that we are who we say we are - in the matter of minutes."
"I'm sure that he'll be tactful, whatever he chooses," Winona murmured.
Roark gave her a look. "You hope, that is. If he doesn't, I'm sure you will speak on your son's behalf, but expect no apology from Red Tail, commander. As you know, we aren't dealing with schoolyard bullies and he has to make sure that Kirk is up to the task of learning the truth." Roark paused. "Are you yourself even slightly curious, Mr. Spock?"
"Indeed, I am curious but I am far more concerned for the intrusion upon the captain's privacy," Spock said.
Roark nodded. "I respect that answer, Mr. Spock. I know it's based on Kirk's unfortunate experiences with the Re'an." He hesitated, a sincere expression crossing his face. "I wish I had made Kirk's acquaintance sooner."
"The Isis has had few engagements within your own solar system the past five years, has it not?" Spock asked. "I doubt that you have met with your superiors at headquarters since your last rendezvous in San Francisco, when Captain Kirk was in the hospital and recovering from radiation poisoning. It was poor timing, indeed, to make the captain's acquaintance."
"Ah, you've done your homework, Mr. Spock," Roark's eyes lit up, as if he appreciated the challenge. "I expected as much. Neither you nor your captain will leave a stone unturned. But to answer your question, yes. It wasn't in the cards to meet your fine captain at that time, although I did think once about stopping by. Furthermore, our ship doesn't receive much acknowledgement, for given the nature of my crew and their research, it is quite insignificant compared to, say, the Enterprise."
"Insignificant except for your diplomatic endeavors."
"Of course, but even those fly under the radar. We may not have the most exciting engagements, but my crew works hard and..." Roark hesitated. "We may even venture into danger zones, not that you'll find anything to that nature in our logs. In fact, I believe that it may be difficult to find anything at all, as your captain knows now, I'm sure."
"I am curious as to why you consider your logs free from any clues indicating your involvement in matters, such as...a personal request by Admiral Marcus to provide transport for four scientists," Spock said evenly.
Roark glanced darkly at him. "I always knew that one would come back to haunt me."
"It would be difficult to deny a request straight from an admiral," Spock said.
"True. For the record, Red Tail had nothing to do with it, of course, except for warning me to be extra cautious. To my knowledge, Marcus never suspected us." Roark paused. "And did your captain then come to a dead end concerning the whereabouts of one particular scientist?"
"Roark," Winona's voice held warning. "It may be best to leave this alone until Jim returns."
"I assumed you would be advising me to leave Kirk out of the conversation altogether," Roark's eyes narrowed. "It has been the only way you've continued working for Red Tail."
Spock turned to Winona. "Your involvement with Project Raptor has been contingent upon your son's ignorance of the organization?"
"Red Tail promised me that he'd keep Jim out of this, and he has kept Jim out of our way all these years," Winona stated, her voice catching.
"Until now, that is," Roark said softly. A fine sheen of anger covered Winona's eyes as the captain spoke to her directly. "And because of the Re'an, your precious son is caught in the middle, but doing a damn good job of holding his own. I am simply amazed that he's able to command his ship after all he's been through."
"You're certainly not making things any easier on him, Roark," Winona said, through clenched teeth. "That wasn't necessary."
Roark tapped his fingers on the table, grinning. "Me not making things easy for him? I suppose you're referring to my greeting. Well, don't be alarmed about that, commander, Mr. Spock. I wanted to see if I could get under Kirk's skin and it was clear that I did not, which earned him one easy point. I think that Kirk understands me well already, as I understand him." He paused. Face drawn, he stared at Winona. "Besides, when it comes to not making things easy on your son, I believe you take first place in that category yourself, commander. Hands down."
"Lieutenant, I need you to patch me through to New Vulcan."
"Sir?" Nyota turned her head in surprise to see Kirk looming over her station on the bridge, his arms braced against the console. He was in the Observation Lounge, with his mother and Captain Roark, talking about their secrets, wasn't he? Why would he be here on the bridge? Why did it matter to her? It didn't matter...This was a situation none of them quite understood.
Kirk stared down at her as she quickly came to her senses. "Lieutenant, I need to speak with Ambassador Selek as soon as possible. I'll take the comm in the ready room," he said, voice firm but hardly above a whisper.
"Yes, sir," she said.
He remained motionless save for the slight crease to his brow.
"Captain?" Nyota asked softly, unsure if he wanted something else or, her heart began to race, was he suffering mentally as a result of the recent stress. "Sir?"
He breathed sharply through his nose, blinking quickly as if to refocus himself. "Lieutenant, this goes no further," he said, firmly, eyes like flint. "Do you understand?"
She didn't have to be told twice to know that she could not even mention this transmission to Spock. "You would like me to clear this transmission from our records?" She murmured discreetly.
"Yes," Kirk clipped.
"Understood, captain," she said.
"Lieutenant," he said again. The glimmer of apology in his voice tugged at her heart.
"No, don't say another word," Nyota said, looking straight into his eyes so that he could see that he could trust her. "This is my duty, sir."
Kirk had never been so still or so silent on the bridge. He stared at her, both of them communicating with the other, both remembering the words spoken the previous day. Nyota was proud of how far their captain had come. She could be proud, even though he could not feel the same for himself. Spock could be proud, and he was, though he didn't speak of it. This, every single action that Jim was taking as his mother's betrayal tested him, was proof that Jim Kirk was meant to be their captain.
Kirk pulled his hands away from the console and straightened. "Thank you, lieutenant," he said with a short yet strangely gentle nod. He strode off the bridge in his hurry, and Nyota proceeded with the transmission to New Vulcan.
As she worked, Nyota came up with a variety of reasons for Kirk needing to speak with Selek and requiring complete confidentiality. Every single one contributed to the worry curling in the pit of her stomach.
Jim ended the comm with the ambassador within fifteen minutes, and he left the ready room no less out of the dark than when he first went in. He couldn't talk about Red Tail's message with anyone and really, he didn't want to spare the time to think about it, either. He still didn't know if Roark or his own mother could be undoubtedly trusted, but what he did know was this: Red Tail was a man who had done his legwork to insure Jim's cooperation as well as his silence.
Red Tail's ways may be difficult to take. In fact, they were. He had been quite intrusive, going as far as to involve Selek and convincing him to divulge something about Jim. Jim still couldn't believe it, that Red Tail had managed to convince Selek, the very Vulcan who had vowed not to involve himself in anything that could alter their destinies, to reveal a secret that Jim had kept even from Bones. From his Spock. The secret harkened back to Delta Vega. It was intrusive, personal on numerous levels, and a low blow at first. But, Jim's gut feeling told him that Red Tail was a man who wanted the best for Starfleet, not the worst. Even Selek believed Red Tail to be trustworthy, and he himself knew no more than Jim.
Jim came to a conclusion. Red Tail had first gained the ambassador's trust in preparation to someday gain Jim's. Red Tail had also gained Selek's trust in a way similar to how he'd gained Jim's. The entire process appeared to have been premeditated, but both Jim and Selek agreed on one very important thing: Red Tail had clearly not anticipated Jim's involvement with the Re'an. Instead, the Re'an incident seemed to have jump started this communication between Red Tail and Jim. It was as if the obscure leader had expected that one way or another Jim would someday find out the truth about his mother, and that, quite frankly, was enough for Jim to realize one very important thing. He had no way of getting out of this mess or away from Red Tail's observant eyes or slipping out from under the radar of anyone looking for the Re'an's dilithium - other than by dying.
Red Tail wanted Jim's cooperation. Jim was certain that, eventually, he'd also want his participation. For now, at least, the latter was a choice that Jim did not have to make.
His comm sounded as he reached the lift. "McCoy to Captain Kirk."
Jim sighed, knowing his inevitable rising blood pressure was the very reason for the doctor's comm. "Yes, Bones."
"May I have a word with you, captain?"
"Shoot," Jim said, hesitating outside the lift.
"A private word," Bones emphasized.
"It's fine. I'm not in the lounge right now."
"You're not?" Bones' voice filled with concern. "Then where are ya?"
"Had to take care of something."
"Jim, what's going on? Your vitals are disconcerting. Have been for the past twenty minutes or so and now I'm concerned."
"Meet me in my quarters?"
"Now?" Bones questioned. "You're in the middle of a briefing, aren't you?"
"I'll explain when you meet me in my quarters in five minutes," Jim said.
"On my way, captain," Bones said.
"Kirk out." Jim slipped into the lift. He got off at deck five and then entered his quarters, hardly realizing what he was doing until Sam was in his arms and wrapped around him. Bones arrived less than a minute later, all business but standing a safe distance away from the snake.
"It's going to be hard to give you anything with her in your arms. Can you put her down, Jim, for just a minute?" Bones asked.
He really didn't want to but Bones had been more than patient with him lately, so Jim did the next best thing. He had no idea where the idea came from but he did what his instincts told him. Unwilling to let Sam go, he silently willed her to move to his left side, and in seconds she'd coiled herself around his left arm entirely.
"What did you just do?" Bones' voice mixed awe and worry. "It was like...how..."
"Have no idea," Jim said, a little dumbfounded himself. Did this mean he had a stronger bond to the damn snake than they first thought? A deep connection that went even deeper? The thought was crazy, just as everything else about the snake and his connection to her was crazy, and he honestly didn't want to dwell on even more insanity at the moment. "But maybe you better hurry and do what you have to do."
Bones wasted no time. He began muttering about Jim's unpredictable vitals, no doubt keeping one eye on the creature while he worked. Jim winced when Bones administered the second hypo. Sam immediately tightened her coils around his arms.
Bones pulled away at the movement, saying nothing but keeping close watch on Sam, his wary eyes saying it all.
"She's not going to harm you, Bones. She's trying to help me," Jim assured him.
"And you know that...how?" Bones asked.
"Because of the pressure...it's..." Jim hesitated. It sounded even more bizarre when he vocalized it.
"Out with it, Jim."
"Soothing," he finally said. He rolled his eyes when he caught Bones' dumbfounded expression. "I know. I know...it's...weird," he finished lamely.
"Take her to the lounge," Bones ordered.
"That's just crazy. Take her to..." Jim shook his head, confused. "You're crazy."
"I'm not the one wearing a snake," Bones smirked. "Take her with you back to the lounge."
"And why would I want to take a poisonous snake with me to talk to Captain Roark and my mother."
"To show them who's boss, that's why," Bones argued. "Besides, you now know you can control her like that."
"Huh," Jim glanced back down at Sam. She did make a striking picture like this. Maybe it wasn't such a bad idea. "I'll take her, but only if you can manage to come, too."
"I have a little time to spare. Can you tell me what the hell is going on, though, before you drag me into things?" Bones asked.
"Their leader, Red Tail, wants my cooperation, and I believe him. Them." Jim left it at that. And waited.
"You believe them?" Bones' eyes pooled with confusion. "Her?"
"Bones, when you consider the evils out there, they're the good guys," Jim said.
"Good guys," Bones repeated. "Right. And you tell me, Jim, how the hell do you even know that?"
Jim looked at Bones, guilt eating him when he could not divulge the whole truth. "Red Tail found a way to convince me to cooperate."
"He blackmailed you?" Bones asked.
"Well, no, not exactly."
"For him to do something like this, Jim, convince you to trust him, after all that has happened to you, it had to be big. Really big, and that..." Bones' suddenly stopped.
"It what?"
The doctor's eyes pierced him. "It worries me. If he can manage something like this, what else can he do?"
"Trust me on this, Bones," Jim said quietly.
"You know I do, but I want to be honest with you. Can you tell me how a man you have never met earned your cooperation so fast?"
"When you put it that way, it does sound crazy, doesn't it?" Jim admitted.
"From my point of view, it's insane, Jim," Bones protested, all but throwing his arms in the air. "You're off your rocker!"
Jim almost agreed with Bones right then and there. He'd never told anyone about the meld on Delta Vega, and now was the first time he actually wanted to, especially since the secret had been revealed to Red Tail. He wanted to tell Bones and have someone on his side, but...who knew what the doctor's reaction would be.
Ambassador Selek said Red Tail came to him soon after Jim had been revived from the dead, and he'd had no choice but to get involved after learning Project Raptor's purpose. The meld was the logical choice of information to divulge to Red Tail. That meant that for well over a year now, the obscure leader had known that during the Narada attacks, Jim suffered side effects and emotional transference from the meld with Selek. It was knowledge that anyone could have used to their advantage, and Red Tail was probably also aware that Jim had seen glimpses of the other Kirk. The other Spock. The other everything. He could have taken steps to try to retrieve additional information from Jim - but hadn't. He could have relayed the information to headquarters, giving any admiral reason to argue against Jim's very sanity while he'd commanded the Enterprise against Nero, opening a can of worms and causing them to question Jim's captaincy now, but he hadn't. There had been more to Red Tail's message, but... Jim bit his lip, pushing the thoughts away. He wouldn't tell Bones yet, though someday... maybe.
"I can't tell you the details, Bones, but you're right. It was big. He may have went a bit too far to ensure my cooperation." Jim rushed on, seeing Bones' mother-hen, protective expression and sensing the great protest about to burst forth from his lips. "That said, I will cooperate with him but I don't trust Roark and my mom completely, especially outside of Project Raptor. I have to be on my guard. I assumed from the beginning that there was another reason behind my mother's deception, that whoever was behind this had an ulterior motive and wanted more than information about the dilithium, and I think I know now...what it..." Jim's voice diminished to nothing.
"Jim? What are you driving at?" Bones asked slowly.
"Red Tail is testing me...through her." Jim was doubly sure of it, and also of something else. "Because of that, he's ultimately testing us. He's testing my crew."
Spock was surely not smug when the captain made the grand entrance he'd hoped for. Commander Kirk's breath gently hitched as she watched her son stride forward with the doctor by his side. Roark's eyebrows shot up, his eyes widening upon seeing the sleek, colorful creature snugly fitted to Jim's upper torso. The body of the snake blended in with Jim's shirt, the golds so close to the same shade that the illusion both enlarged and strengthened the captain's shoulders.
"I've confirmed Red Tails's message," Jim said. He ignored the others' stares and promptly returned to his seat at the head of the table, Dr. McCoy taking a seat beside Spock. Samantha remained still, an almost threatening fixture on Jim.
"You believe us?" Roark asked, his eyes roaming briefly over Samantha's bold markings before glancing up at Jim.
"I believe Red Tail sent you to me so that he could gain my trust." Jim's steely gaze pierced the other captain. "For now, he has my cooperation."
"Excellent." Roark murmured. "Then shall we proceed?"
"What's he after?" Jim asked, folding his hands on the table.
"I think you may have an idea," Roark lifted his shoulders in indifference. "You've witnessed it firsthand, Kirk."
"Red matter," Jim said, his demeanor oozed with a natural, quiet calmness. Spock's ears were accustomed to Jim's softer voice, but the others leaned forward, straining to hear the captain. "Photon torpedoes. And now, an excess of dilithium. Weapons."
"All of it, and more. Things you've never heard of," Roark said. "For two decades we have succeeded - or failed - in our efforts to get them out of the wrong hands. It seems that you can't have one result without the other."
"Such as your failure to stop one of the biggest threats that Starfleet has ever faced," Jim said, mouth drawing into a frown. "And the discovery and subsequent deaths of two of your moles."
Roark glanced sharply at Jim. "You've clearly done your homework, Kirk, and Red Tail would be impressed. Therefore, I'll validate this information for you. Their deaths were most unfortunate, but they did sabotage some of their own research. They alerted us of the existence of a John Harrison and also managed to send word of several traffic patterns of several smaller supply ships to the Vengeance. We plundered the ships that we were able to attack...inconspicuously."
"It wasn't enough," Jim frown deepened. "But you may have delayed the ship's construction, saving lives in the process. There is your success, as you say."
"It's never enough, and you may be right but we will never know. We can only hope that we managed to make a difference," Roark looked darkly down at his hands. "We did manage to cripple some of Marcus' progress in other ways. We believe it still sent the message."
"Your ship is insufficiently equipped to handle a discreet attack," Spock observed.
"True," Roark glanced up with a nod. "That's why we don't do all of the plundering. Throws our enemies off our trail."
"You have gained the cooperation of other Federations members outside of Starfleet," Spock said.
"Gaining strong allies was the first thing Red Tail ever did," Roark said.
Jim hummed noncommittally. "That was a smart move on his part. And the scientist who's been missing all this time?"
"He wasn't with us," Roark glanced sideways at Winona.
"He's still a threat at large," Winona confirmed. "We can only hope he doesn't know that we spoke with his companions during their transport."
"You cover your tracks well, I assume," Jim said.
"Win's friendship with Archer works to our advantage, because this time, we hardly had to work for the cover to visit you," Roark's eyes narrowed on Jim. "However, captain, your cooperation must have come at a great expense, enough for you to agree to silence. Red Tail isn't ignorant of your loyalty to the admiral. I find it very interesting that you are shifting loyalties so easily, Kirk."
Spock felt Jim bristling at the surface. Do not allow him to test you, captain. He can only speculate the reason for your cooperation and spout false accusations.
He can speculate until he's blue in the face, for all I care, Jim grimly told Spock. That information is mine and mine alone. "I assure you, Red Tail has my cooperation and Admiral Archer has my loyalty," Jim said passionately. "My decision to cooperate with your leader isn't based on feelings but facts, Captain Roark, nor does it negate my loyalty to my own superiors. My crew and I have experienced first-hand of what men can do with their unfulfilled desires of revenge or power. Sometimes you do have to walk the middle line, if not to make sure no harms comes to those you vowed to protect."
Roark's eyes flickered to Winona. "It seems your mother agrees with that sentiment, doesn't she, Kirk?"
Jim froze.
Spock immediately opened his shields further, extending his protection to the captain. Jim, do not allow him lure you into an emotional response.
I'm trying my best, Spock, but he's getting under my skin a little, and we're supposed to be on the same side. He's doing this purposefully. I don't know why, but he is.
"If you're referring to the orders made by Commander Kirk which resulted in harming innocent blind children, you're incredibly foolish to compare the two," Jim said, blatantly ignoring his mother.
"You think that you could have found a better way. I'm inclined to believe you, Kirk," Roark said smoothly.
"I do think I could've found an alternative, but let's not waste time on speculation. It's in the past and I'm sure we have other, more important things to take care of," Jim leaned back in his seat, Samantha's coils loosening as her master's own muscles relaxed, the two now moving as one. "Project Raptor, captain. By all means, tell me more."
Jim learned that Red Tail did, indeed, have others on the Isis working with Project Raptor as well as on other ships, but Roark talked in circles and expertly avoided further detail. It was coming to a stalemate. Obviously, Red Tail wanted Jim's cooperation but didn't wish for Roark and Winona to divulge too much information at this time. Jim was forced to squelch his own curiosity, which he found easy to do when, during a lull in conversation, the other captain's fascination with Sam came to light.
"May I see her up close?" Roark asked.
"I wouldn't recommend it. She's poisonous," Jim said, not believing for a second that the captain was ignorant of Sam's venomous bite. He was far too intelligent to assume the Re'an creature was a simple creature.
"Ah, I suspected as much." Roark's silken voice filled the room. "That's unfortunate. This creature's too marvelous to remain in her case while she makes your ship her home."
"I agree. It's why I brought her with me." Jim grasped Sam gently by the neck and near the tail. He pulled her off of his shoulders, placing her along his arm, instead.
"Thank you for indulging us, Captain Kirk," Roark said, his eyes sweeping over the length of the creature. "I hope bringing her with you isn't an inconvenience. She's quite striking."
"It's not an inconvenience," Jim said.
"It's a necessity isn't it?" Roark asked slowly.
Jim shot his mother a look.
"No, she didn't tell me much," Roark said. "I know that may surprise you but she did draw the line in regards to your personal attachment to the Re'an snake as well as with the bond you share with Commander Spock. I've seen many things over the years, Kirk, and I can recognize a connection such as the one you have with this creature. She's important to you."
"She is," Jim admitted, seeing no sense in trying to negate Roark's observations.
"May I ask why she's important? Is she a necessity?" Roark asked again.
"I'll save that information for our second meeting, if you don't mind," Jim clipped. "As long as that meeting is under good terms."
"What makes you think we'll meet again?"
"A hunch," Jim said, watching him closely. He recognized Roark was fighting for the good of Starfleet but Jim could not trust him, not yet. Red Tail had proven to be worthy of his cooperation, and it was only reasonable to want Roark to prove himself, as well.
"Well, I hope the next time we meet, we meet as friends. Despite appearances, I'm sincerely interested to learn what happened to you, Captain Kirk, forcing you to depend on your lovely pet. Meanwhile, I must tell you that your 'Sam' is magnificent." Roark said, with a sweeping gaze on the snake that was almost too familiar - and unsettling to Jim. Jim silently urged Sam to find a spot on his body that was away from the other captain. In seconds she had hidden herself halfway around Jim. "Even though she's not the largest snake I've seen, she appears quite formidable."
"I believe she could hold her own in the wild," his mother murmured as her eyes traced the green, blue, and gold patterns along Sam's back.
Feeling a familiar pull, Jim glanced down at Sam. His brows knit together. An urge to protect her grew, becoming a fierce burning in his mind to remove her from their curious eyes. The other captain's impression of Sam didn't quite measure up to his own, and now, apparently, neither did his mother's. From the very beginning, Sam's size and her mysterious, bold markings hadn't mattered to him. They couldn't have mattered; he'd been blind. His impression of Sam was based on what he felt from her, the connection to the Re'an and nothing else.
And he wasn't quite sure that he appreciated their observations. "She's not a weapon," Jim said quietly. As Winona and Roark exchanged a look, he realized they understood he was speaking of more than just his snake. "She's peaceful, just as all the Re'an snakes were."
"We were somewhere beyond the Beta Quadrant about nine years ago," Roark began, his clear voice demanding their complete attention. "Commander Kirk and I had been working diligently to gain the trust of several high-ranking members of a particularly difficult species. I'd been in contact with them for years, slowly coming to an understanding. One particular meeting sticks in my mind to this day above any others, for it was two weeks after one of their own decided that he'd behaved too dishonorably to continue on with his sorry life."
"He committed suicide to right the wrong, to honor his family," Jim observed. It was a common custom among species placing great emphasis on their warrior societies.
"Yes," Roark said.
Sam loosed her coils around Jim's arm. Her head lingered in the air for a moment, before her head moved from side to side as if she were watching the other captain.
"Imagine the greatest warrior you ever met, scarred from hideous wounds and braver than any of his comrades. Imagine him being brought to his knees and whimpering like a child, terrified of an animal that he could no doubt crush with his own bare hands. The creature moves, coming towards him. His eyes widen with a fear so strong that his two hundred fifty pound body of pure muscle becomes immovable, incapable of reacting like the brave man he is. He then falters, his mouth falling open in pure fright, his body helpless to tremors," Roark said, smiling as if this wasn't a gruesome tale. "Perhaps he loses control and shits in his pants or the fear elicits a frightening physical reaction and he disgustingly foams at the mouth. He succumbs to the fear completely, thereby dishonoring his entire family. Please explain to me, Captain Kirk, this senselessness."
Jim considered it only briefly. "I assume that you wish for me to reach the following conclusion, that he reacted poorly to a threat on his life. It was a moment of weakness, and while we've all experienced those, we wouldn't take our own life as a result. This is the obvious answer yet nothing that has to deal with my mother's so simple."
"You are correct, Captain Kirk. I shouldn't be surprised but I am. Your mother did share how intuitive you are," Roark said, lips quirked into a wry smile. "There were two men. An unsuspecting creature took the first man's life violently and suddenly, and the entire house, among others, developed a unique and overwhelming fear of this creature at the same time that a disease threatened their survival. It happened over time, the disease and the ensuing chemical imbalance allowing this fear to imprint upon each member of their society as generations passed. It continued even after the disease had passed. Decades later, when the grandson merely came across what killed his beloved relative decades earlier, he did what I told you. He fell apart, but there'd been no intention to kill on part of the animal. The grandson had been safe all along, but he was forced to end his own life because he had failed. He'd been an utter coward but could not allow this disgrace fall to his family."
"It is a tragic tale but most illogical," Spock said.
"Indeed, it is," Roark said. "Mainly because no one will forget what happened. In fact, this fear has only grown, festering within their culture. It is ingrained in their minds, and we were the first outsiders to know that this weakness even existed."
"I'm sure you won't forget it, either," Jim said, eyes hardening as he thought of Captain Roark, or his mother, going as far as to provoke someone to fear and then to suicide. Suddenly it didn't seem very likely that they were speaking in a complete metaphoric sense.
Winona met his gaze unflinchingly. "We use what we have to."
"So this is how you play sides," Jim said, although deep down he understood the similarities to things he'd done throughout his entire life to survive. The difference between his crew and Project Raptor was that they didn't go searching for problems. He was an explorer. His first officer was an explorer. Every single crew member on his ship had their sights on the stars, not the dark politics which lingered after Marcus nor the dark politics of before, the ones had experienced himself when he'd fallen straight into Marcus' hands.
But Jim, despite all that happened to him since Re'an V, understood that the threats within and outside of Starfleet weren't going to just go away, even with Project Raptor's involvement. They weren't going away and the organization needed intelligent men and women to aid their cause. Jim simply wasn't as naive as he'd been before. Project Raptor existed as an integral piece in maintaining the balance within the system, weeding out weapons that had no business being in anyone's hands. He would do more harm if he revealed Project Raptor's existence to his own superiors, ultimately tipping the balance the wrong way.
"It is if we must," Winona said.
"No friends. Just enemies, no matter which way you look at it," Bones muttered. "Don't look at us as if we are yours, Dr. McCoy." Roark said with an easy drawl. He turned to Jim. "Or yours, Captain Kirk. You now know which side we work for - yours."
Jim flashed Roark a confident smile. "You say these things, but I can't give you the level of trust you or Red Tail expects. All I have is your word and a message from Red Tail, himself. Quite frankly, after what has already transpired and these riddles you speak of, it will be even harder for you both to gain my trust, although Red Tail has my cooperation. For now." Jim added, now staring them down. "I am fully aware of the necessity of an organization like Project Raptor. I only hope that you, Captain Roark and Commander Kirk, are truly working to rid Starfleet of its evils rather than working for your personal gain. So, yes, I will look at you as if you are a possible threat to my crew, and friend or enemy, it really doesn't matter, now, does it? I've already been fooled once by one of you. I'm going to do all that I can to make damn sure it doesn't happen again."
"And Red Tail?" Spock quirked a brow. "He condones these tactics that you tend to employ?"
"We don't take anything we do lightly, Mr. Spock," Winona answered first.
"Does he condone them, Commander Kirk?" Spock repeated.
"He gives us guidelines," she replied.
"We may not agree with them, but we follow them," Roark said duly. "That said, your mother is a Kirk."
"That's a little bold," Bones said.
"And I have no doubt that you understand, Doctor McCoy. The apple doesn't fall from the tree," Roark looked pointedly at Jim. "And that is why she works with me."
"But she is no longer serving as your first officer," Spock said.
"I received word just this morning that Commander Kirk is to be transferred back to the Isis," Roark said without a single glance at Winona, whose eyes filled with confusion.
"Roark?" She asked.
He looked at her and sighed. "You look as though you're going to your death, commander," Roark frowned.
"Why didn't you inform me of this before now, sir?" Winona's mouth pressed flat.
"And add to your apprehension?" Roark inclined his head towards Jim. "I didn't want you to be sidetracked as we prepared for this very conversation with Captain Kirk."
"I can see your point," she said thinly. "It will be an honor serving as your first officer once more, captain."
Jim could see it was as good as time as any to end their visit. They clearly weren't going to divulge any more details, and frankly, he'd had enough of Project Raptor - and his mother - for the day.
He looked at them both. "Captain Roark, Commander Kirk, I believe that our discussion is over. Thank you for the information concerning the Thriuna system. We shall leave the remaining scans to you and your crew's capable hands."
Roark's lips locked into a mocking smile. "Captain, it's been a pleasure."
They were mostly silent as Jim and Spock escorted the captain and commander to the transporter room, Bones also accompanying for the sake of appearances. Jim purposefully flanked his mother on her right, away from Roark. He'd already asked Scotty to assist in the transporter room, wanting only his senior command crew to hear anything else Roark and his mother might have to say at this point in time. Once they arrived, Jim dropped the act and the pleasant expression from his face so fast that Scotty looked at him with a frown on his face.
"Mr. Scott," Jim said shortly, meeting his gaze head on. "We'll need two minutes."
"Aye, Captain."
"Jim," Bones said under his breath to Jim before he turned to the platform. The doctor's eyes crinkled at the edges with worry. "Will you think about what I said earlier?"
Jim took a deep breath but it didn't steady him as much as he thought it would. "Bones..."
"She loves you," Bones' eyes were probing as he quietly spoke the words for Jim's ears only. "And I know you love her despite all of this. Don't part in a way that you'll later regret."
Jim didn't say that he would one way or the other. Instead, he turned and stepped forward to the platform until he stood in front of his mother. The added height as she stood on the steps allowed her to be face to face with Jim, but they were no where near thinking on the same level.
"Captain," she murmured, the rank immediately catching his attention. "May I have a moment with you, just as your mother before I go?"
Against his better judgement, he nodded in consent. Before he could move out of the way or deflect what was coming, she leaned forward and kissed his cheek, giving no thought to the snake along his shoulders. But she didn't stop there, and he couldn't find it within himself to stop her, either. The caress of her hands upon his face took him back to when that was all he could 'see,' when he trusted her and nothing tainted her actions as a Starfleet officer. His eyes closed briefly, the memory replaying over and over the goodness of it, how she'd touched him, loved him, despite his altered appearance and blindness.
"Thank you, Jim. You don't know what this means to me," she murmured, pressing a kiss against his forehead, a kiss he almost wished had lasted longer.
He suddenly remembered why he'd kept those scars and ground his teeth together, sending her a look as he pulled away. What the hell was he was doing?
You love your mother, Jim, and it is a normal reaction, Elise's voice came like a breeze, light and gentle as it passed through his mind. He was comforted, realizing that the healer remained somewhere nearby, concerned for his welfare.
Normal after what she did?
She loves you and yes she has hurt you, but you now know that she is working for the benefit of the Federation, for the Starfleet that you love. It is up to you, Jim, but you are a strong, intelligent man who may be able to separate these two things in her life so you can have the motherly love you so desire.
Elise, I don't know if I want to.
I'm not sure that you don't. Elise murmured, fading.
"Mom," Jim said, the endearment leaving his lips before he could think better of it.
He almost wasn't prepared for the way that her eyes filled with hope.
"I can't..." The words he wished to say lodged painfully in his throat as did his indecision. That he was responsible for the expectation on his mother's face was humbling, and he wasn't sure he wanted that responsibility. Not yet.
"It's okay," she said. "I understand."
Her hand brushed along his cheek, her fingers pausing when he almost said the words. "I..." I love you. I want what we had this past week, but I am terribly hurt. I want to forgive you again but I can't. I don't want to be hurt again, and I love you. He didn't know if she heard the words but something happened between them. He glanced up and stepped back to separate them. "Be careful."
"I will be, Jim," Winona said, her lips curving upwards. "If you ever need me - "
"I know," he interrupted brusquely. He took another step back and was about to give Scotty the orders when Spock interjected.
"Captain Roark, I have one question before you return to the Isis."
"Yes, Commander Spock," Roark said, somehow looking more regal while waiting to return to his ship.
"The species you described earlier," Spock asked. "Who were they?"
"I can't seem to remember, Commander Spock," Roark said, though his confidence poured from his person. "You see, that was nearly a decade ago."
"Indeed, human memory tends to be most disadvantageous at times such as these," Spock replied, hands clasped behind his back. "Perhaps when you recall the name of the particular species you will send us a subspace message. In the meantime, we will continue to review your logs and reports ourselves."
Irritation flashed over Roark's face before he masked his features. "You won't find it."
"Then I suggest you that you practice more care in recording these details," Spock said. "It reflects poorly upon you, Captain Roark."
"Well, I can't allow that to happen, now can I, commander?" Roark smiled through his teeth. "I guess I do remember, after all. They were Klingons."
"Fascinating," Spock murmured. "Your swift return of memory is to be commended, Captain Roark."
Klingons? That meant that Roark had just divulged one very powerful and very dark, disturbing secret. If it fell into the wrong hands, it could reap devastation upon the Klingon Empire or the Federation...or on both. Jim didn't know Red Tail well at all, but he had no doubt that Red Tail would frown upon that confession, even though Jim was trustworthy and wouldn't breathe a word of it to anyone. Still, Spock had skillfully forced Roark's hand. Well played, Commander.
"Scotty, energize," Jim ordered.
Seconds passed and Jim now stared at the empty spot where his mother once stood. He dropped his shoulders in relief, the weight of snake comforting. "I thought he'd never leave," he muttered. Although Jim could honestly see why Roark had been chosen to help lead Project Raptor, something about him rubbed Jim the wrong way.
"He appears to have a deep understanding of your mother," Spock stated.
At that, Jim frowned at his first officer, perhaps a little too long because Bones caught the look on his face.
"I'm not too sure I like the man, myself, Jim, but it may be for a slightly different reason than you," Bones said quietly, nodding to the creature on Jim's shoulders. "I didn't care for the way he inspected Sam. Like she was a specimen."
Jim blinked slowly at him, blaming his sluggish reaction on the amount of concentration he'd been forced to expend the past thirty-six hours. "Really? That...that upset you?"
"Yeah," Bones groused. "Because even though you held it together, I could tell that it ruffled your feathers quite a bit. Sam isn't just a snake to you. She is more than that. She's your connection to the Re'an part of you that makes you you, Jim. And frankly, I was more than ready to cut that particular conversation short at the time."
Utterly shocked, Jim just stared at him.
"I concur," Spock said. "In addition, the peculiarities of the ensuing conversation lead me to believe that the information was offered intentionally, possibly with a hidden motive."
Unfortunately, Jim agreed. "Something wasn't quite right about that and I have no plans to let down my guard anytime soon. But, I have a question. How has he existed all this time, yet so little is known about both him and his ship?" Jim mused aloud.
"I don't have the answer to that, but I can honestly say that he is one person I hope that we never see again," Bones said.
"That is an illogical hope, doctor," Spock said.
"Of course it is," Bones muttered. "But I'll still hope it."
"It would be more advantageous if we postulate when Captain Roark will next contact us, for that has the greatest probability of occurring since he is in direct contact with Red Tail and the captain is an asset they will not soon forget."
"What if I don't want to," Bones said shortly.
Jim arched a brow and stepped back, arms crossed as he and Scotty watched what seemed to be becoming a verbal match.
"If you ignore my advice, you will be sorely unprepared."
Bones sighed, exasperated. "So? Your point?"
"It is illogical to upset with me, doctor, when I am only attempting to prepare you," Spock said.
"That's what Jim is here for," Bones grumbled. "Being prepared. Always be prepared. That's Jim's motto."
Jim snorted. "It really isn't, Bones."
"I do not believe the responsibility should be placed entirely on the captain, Leonard," Spock interjected. "And as the captain has indicated, you are incorrect in regards to his...'motto.'"
"Mr. Spock, I never knew that you were one to love having the last word, not that I didn't like it when you did that to Roark," Bones said with a scowl. "But, hell, let me be miserable in my illogical hope that the man never shows his face around here again."
Jim chuckled and clapped Spock on the shoulder. "He has a point, Spock," Jim said. "Bones has a right to choose to be miserable."
Displeasure crossed over Spock's face. "I must object, doctor."
"Of course you must," Bones muttered.
"You are my friend, therefore, it is illogical for me to 'let' you be mis- "
"Spock? Save it for another day," Bones scowl deepened. "Or I'm not coming to the party tonight."
Jim frowned, eyes flickering to his best friend. "Party?" He rubbed his jaw nervously. "What party?"
"Oh, it's just a celebration after all that has happened the past two months," Bones said, scowl fading. "You returning to command the Enterprise, for one. Actually, that's the main thing. You."
Jim's hand stilled but his stomach kept on rolling. He was Re'an. He had no desire to be pulled into something that went against his new nature. Jim raised his hands and stepped back in protest. "I don't do those, Bones. I just...I don't."
"And you don't have to," Bones said, something in his eyes causing Jim to pause.
"I...I don't?" Jim asked, his heart still furiously unsettled at the idea of a party, anyway. They wouldn't really do that to him, would they? He ran his fingers over Sam's back out of habit. "But you said..."
"We understand that it is something you aren't comfortable with and you don't have to come."
Jim looked from Bones to Spock, confused. "Then why...why exactly is there a...a party?"
"Uhura is throwing a party for Spock because now that you're captain again, he is back to being your first officer," Bones said, something resembling a smirk rising on his lips. "It's worth celebratin', ya know? Spock being your first again?"
Jim blinked at them both, peering closer at Spock when he swore he saw a faint smile on the Vulcan. He didn't know whether to laugh or be relieved or...maybe a little bit of both.
"Ach, I cannae wait. Maybe I'll bring a wee bit of my whiskey along," Scotty slapped a hand on the console.
"Jim? Ya alright?" Bones asked.
"Uh...yeah. Back to being my first. Right. That makes sense. It..." Jim paused, still confused. It made no sense, really. He ran a hand through his cropped hair, at a loss as to how to respond to one of the most...the most ridiculous yet most wonderful things he'd ever heard. A party for a returning first officer...that wasn't for the returning captain. "That's..."
Jim looked up Bones again, wordless. If he was gaping like a complete idiot, he didn't even care. He was relieved and utterly ecstatic that the party wasn't for him.
"You alright there, Jimmy?" Bones asked. Jim shook his head, laughing and missing the slight quirk of Spock's mouth.
"Uh...yeah." Jim shifted his weight to balance himself and covered his mouth to suppress another laugh. "Yeah. 'm fine, Bones."
"You don't have to come. We all understand if you don't, and I'll swing by your quarters afterwards so I can fill you in all about the party and its guest of honor, who will be exhausted after all the attention he'll get tonight." Bones glanced at Scotty. "Oh, and I'm sure Mr. Scott can spare some whiskey for ya later, too, buddy."
Jim muffled more laughter, which came out like a snort behind his hand. "Guest of honor. Spock. Right." Jim dropped his hand and exhaled another slow breath. The weight on the party disappeared. He grinned, happy that his crew would have a good time tonight. "Great. I think that sounds just perfect because Spock deserves the pomp and circumstance. He's the best first there is." He shook his head, now even more relieved. "And maybe...maybe I will come."
"You'll come to the party?" Bones asked cautiously. The doctor raised a brow at Spock, who responded in kind.
Jim nodded, a little surprised at himself, too. "But only for a little while." He smiled at Spock. "I'd like to see the guest of honor."
"How on earth did you convince him to come?" Christine whispered to McCoy. The party had started about ten minutes ago and all were waiting for the guest of honor, including one Captain James T. Kirk who no longer celebrated anything except a few Re'an ceremonies.
McCoy took a swig of whiskey. It was a good question. He really didn't know for sure. "I think it was Spock. Jim wanted to come support him."
"Well, whatever the reason, I'm glad he's here. It looks good to the crew." She smiled, her gaze traveling to where Jim mingled right inside the door to the rec room. "They missed him."
"You think he knows that this is really for him?" Dr. Marcus asked as she joined them. "All of us were planning on celebrating his return whether he was here or not, but it makes it so much better for him to enjoy this, too."
McCoy shook his head, smiling to himself. "He's oblivious. And we'll have to keep it that way to keep him happy. Thanks to Uhura's ingenuity, it won't be a problem."
"Spock didn't put up a fuss about it, either, did he?" Dr. Marcus said with a small smile.
"Not one bit. Now, where is that hobgoblin?" McCoy muttered. He better arrive or Jim would start getting suspicious.
As if he felt their eyes upon him, Jim glanced over. He nodded to the group he was with and sauntered over to McCoy, his back towards the doors. "Bones, where's Spock?"
"Maybe he wants to make a grand entrance," McCoy said. "It is his party, after all."
Jim gave a short laugh. "I'm glad you did this for him," he said. "He took care of her, Bones. He took care of the Enterprise while I ..." Jim's voice trailed off, his expression almost wistful. "I don't know how to thank him."
"I know, kid," McCoy said.
"I'm sure he'll be here soon," Christine said and glanced around the room.
"I hope so. I don't think I can stay here much longer," Jim murmured, fidgeting on his feet.
"If you have to leave, I'm sure Mr. Spock will understand," Christine said.
"I should wait for him. Hate to waste good whiskey." Jim frowned at the glass in his hand, swirling the liquid before lifting it up take a drink. At that exact moment, Spock stepped into the room, immediately causing a stir among the guests.
McCoy choked on his own drink. "It's even worse...than I thought it would be," he sputtered.
"Bones," Jim asked. "You alright?"
Dr. Marcus clapped a hand over her mouth mid-laughter. "He really did it," Carol managed. "I can't believe it."
"He really did do it," Christine eyes widened.
"Who did what?" Jim asked.
"If anyone could convince him, it would be Nyota," Christine snorted.
"I need a picture, Chris," McCoy decided, looking away from the spectacle that had garnered everyone's attention but Jim's. "Who knows what I'll be able to use this for later on."
"Already taken care of, Leonard," Christine said.
"What are you talking about?" Jim asked, craning his neck.
"The guest of honor has arrived, Jimmy," McCoy smirked at Jim, who had just taken another sip of his drink. "Turn around."
Jim obliged as McCoy gently guided him by the shoulders. Jim's eyes locked on Spock and he spewed out every last drop of whiskey from his mouth. It sprayed on McCoy but he didn't care. The look on Jim's face was worth the mess. "Oh my God, that's the...the..." Jim sputtered, eyes watering.
"Yep," McCoy drawled. He dragged his sleeve across his face. "Sure is."
"But...it's...it's...Bones," Jim choked.
"Your face is getting red, Jim," McCoy said, enjoying himself like he hadn't for a long, long time.
"Who let him out of his quarters like that?" Jim managed to whisper. "Wearing that...that..?"
"Well, it is his party. He can pretty much wear whatever the hell he wants to wear, Jim."
"But it's that same shirt that I wore after I took everything out of my dresser, Bones," Jim hissed. "And it's...it's..."
"It's what?" Christine asked sweetly.
"Horrible," Jim's voice almost squeaked. His eyes widened at McCoy. "I'm never going to try to prove a point to you ever again. Never, Bones."
"Why not?" McCoy asked, feeling even more smug with himself. "You're pretty good at presenting arguments. If it makes you feel any better, I think you actually won that day."
"Who cares about winning when you're wearing something hideous, Bones." Jim grimaced. "It's worse than I remember. I looked just as bad, didn't I?"
"It certainly didn't compliment your skin tone quite like it does Spock's," McCoy deadpanned. "I'd say it was worse, actually."
Jim groaned.
"You forgot that you added red baggy sweatpants to the ensemble," Christine said. "Or so I heard you added those sweatpants."
"It wasn't so bad," Carol mused.
Jim groaned again. "At least one person is on my side. I'm leaving. Here. Take it." Jim shoved his glass at McCoy, who grabbed it just in time as Jim began walking away. "They won't miss me. Especially Spock, who hasn't even seen me yet."
"Oh no, you don't," McCoy turned to catch up with him and clutched his arm. Jim stopped as McCoy pulled him closer. "Face the music, kid. Be the captain you say you are and go tell your first officer hi or that ya like his shirt."
Jim's eyes filled with panic as he watched Spock lingering with the crew and Uhura nearby, speaking with Dr. Jahnas and holding a box. "Oh, no. I'm not going to tell him anything when he's wearing that. It's too embarrassing and looks like a set up with 'Nyota Uhura' written all over it."
"You're going to let that stop ya?" McCoy said, mouth quirking. "Show them who's boss, kid."
"What am I supposed to say? Compliment him?
"Well, sure."
"I'd be lying!"
"Can't you just play along?" McCoy asked the adamant captain. He almost felt bad, having not expected such a passionate reaction from Jim.
"No!" Jim almost shouted. "I can't lie to him about something like that, Bones. That's not...it's not Re'an. I can't say things like that."
"Tone it down, Jim," McCoy hushed him. "I think that your bond buddy may have heard you. He's the guest of honor, remember. Kid, you're in a tough spot. You can't lie to him but you can't be hurting his feelings, either."
Jim sent him a miserable look. "You're pretty good at laying on the guilt, aren't you?"
McCoy merely shrugged.
Jim rolled his eyes. "Fine. If this means so much to you and to everyone else, I'll stay, just as long as I don't have to talk about the...the..."
"About the...what?" McCoy asked innocently.
"The fugly shirt," Jim muttered.
"Ouch," McCoy winced. "That's a little harsh, Jim."
"It's true, though," Jim mumbled.
"But you'll play along?"
Jim's half-groan sounded more like an exasperated sigh.
"Jim?"
"Yes, I'll play along," he muttered under his breath.
"Glad to hear it," McCoy said. "Because I think there's something that'll interest ya in the rectangular box Uhura's carrying."
"The box she's holding?" Jim whispered, his eyes wide as he leaned towards McCoy. "Why would it interest me? It's not a gift is it?"
"Now that you mentioned it, I do see a bow on top."
"Bones, you told me this party isn't for me," Jim hissed, "and that's the only reason why I even felt comfortable coming."
McCoy felt a twinge of guilt but it fled as he soon as he thought of normalcy the captain was experiencing after the turbulent past few days. This was important. The laughter and the camaraderie. The friendship that they all shared with Jim, and as Jim's physician and friend, he'd do whatever he could to nurture it. Times like these seemed to be all too rare, lately, and that had to change.
"The party is for Spock but that box is a gift, Jim, for you," McCoy said. He draped his arm around the captain's shoulders, leading him towards Spock. "And I'm sure it'll fit since you tried it on once - no, twice - already."
The second look on Jim's face was just as priceless as the first.
Winona cut the connection and stared at the screen as it faded to black. There was no turning back. It was done.
A rustling in the other room made her frown in more than irritation. It was Roark, she assumed, doing what he did best and dropping by unannounced in her quarters. He pushed the boundaries between them and if she could do anything right by her husband, it was this. Ignoring the captain's advances.
"How much time did you end up giving Jim?"
"I told them to give Jim four weeks," she said quietly without turning her head.
"So, they'll come after your son, wanting information about the dilithium in two."
"Most likely," she said.
"He'll be ready. It'll be soon after this, and you know he won't be letting down his guard for a long time." Roark paused. "If at all."
"Oh, that was made perfectly clear now, wasn't it?" She looked pointedly at him.
"I think I did manage to get under his skin, after all," he mused. And he had, purposefully, she knew, to keep Jim unsettled and therefore alert for the danger they were sending his way.
"You were a bit dramatic, Roark. But, you're right. He won't let down his guard and that's what we want him to do. Sometimes I love to hate you." She spoke her mind, as it was as normal as breathing for her to be so candid with Roark. Their relationship did not operate on the same level as most captains and first officers, as every last bit of it was influenced by their involvement in Project Raptor.
Roark smiled easily at her. "It's what I do best. Manipulation."
The word nudged an idea she'd had since returning to the Isis. "I think Jim might have a handle on that concept, too, Roark. We did have to return to the Enterprise and reveal a little of our secret."
His face went blank, but then he broke into hearty laughter. "Damn, I wish I had met your son before the Re'an had laid their hands on him. I can see that we will get along just fine."
"You didn't inform Red Tail of my plan, did you?" She hated to ask, but she had to know.
Roark chuckled wryly. "You know he wouldn't condone our actions. Especially my part."
No, he wouldn't, but Winona could just imagine Red Tail finding out what she did and being furious at her for risking Jim's life like this and then at Roark for allowing it to happen. Only, deep down Winona knew that it wasn't a risk. Roark would make sure the Isis followed the Enterprise a respectable distance away the next few weeks in case something went wrong, but her son would pull through. He had to. They'd given Jim more than enough information to figure out on his own what he needed to do.
"You have to be pleased with yourself," he said. She tensed, sensing him right behind her. "Things have gone according to plan, at least for this."
"I'll be pleased once I hear that my enemy withered right in front of my son like the dishonorable being he is." He and whoever else ended up being in the same room. The more the merrier.
"You worked hard," Roark replied, his voice warm as he touched her shoulder. She slipped away from his hand and stood, shooting him a warning look. "You deserve to see it for yourself."
She'd cradled that thought in her mind for a long time, believing that she would be the one to bring her enemy to his knees. That she would watch him wilt before her eyes as he became a disgraceful, pitiful mess before his comrades. Those thoughts had fueled her passion all these years as she worked to gain the trust of her enemy. But she had done it. She found a way to avenge the loss of those precious supplies that could have saved her son from all of his suffering on Tarsus at the tender age of thirteen. Coincidentally, she also found the way to avenge Jim's suffering at the hands of the Re'an, for without the first suffering on Tarsus, the Re'an creatures may have never discovered Jim's compatibility as a resource. She'd found a way, but it wouldn't be her who would witness it.
"You really don't know why I am doing this, do you?" She asked, angry with the captain. It wasn't about her. None of it. It had always been about Jim.
"I do know," he said, just as curtly. "And as admirable as it is to have worked towards this for over a decade, I don't think that the man your son is now will ever understand your actions."
Her nose flared as his words hit their mark. "He would have at one time."
Roark nodded. "Of course he would have. But you've misguided yourself if you believe that this is going to make things easier between you and your son. It won't, Win."
She closed her eyes and breathed out as slowly as possible. Roark tested her all too often. It was obvious that this would make things harder for Jim to trust her. Then again, twisted things were becoming common occurrences between them, and Jim hadn't pushed her completely away this last time. When she opened her eyes, Roark's eyes had never left her face. It was one of his strong points, his patience with her. With everyone, excluding, perhaps, Mr. Spock. It was also one of the reasons Red Tail had chosen him to help lead Project Raptor. "Like I said, this isn't about me."
His eyes flickered down to the device on her desk, silent.
"What?" She huffed a breath. Roark's wordless moments always unnerved her.
"I have a feeling that a day of reckoning is coming." He said, the hushed words sending a chill down her spine that proved difficult to ignore.
"Of course it's coming," she muttered.
She knew exactly what that reckoning would be and she couldn't help but smile smugly back at Roark as the scene played in her mind. James T. Kirk, Tarsus IV survivor, will have soon unknowingly avenged all those who had suffered beside him on that cursed planet. It had been about Jim. It wouldn't be Winona watching after all these years, after all this time that she had planned and plotted, gaining the trust of her enemy, her work now reaching its culminating moment. Fate and Jim's horrific and unfortunate experience with the Re'an had all provided the way. It wasn't about her, but she would be one of only two who knew the truth behind it all. It would be her son watching their enemy be disgraced before his very eyes.
Her son would see it, and that was worth far more than anything else she could've ever done.
Authors' Note: The end! But not really! ;) Don't hate me for that cliffhanger, but I believe the next part of this story will have a greater impact as its separate (and much shorter!) fic. Red Tail has an agenda, which you know is basically a good one. Actually, he has more than one agenda. ;) Roark has an agenda, which is mainly tied into Winona's. Her rather dangerous plan begins with that canonical idea that I hinted about last chapter and also somewhat explained in this chapter concerning Tarsus IV. And when Jim and his crew come face to face with her agenda...hehe...it will be interesting, to say the least. Jim has endured and cannot be underestimated.
For the sake of keeping the sequel full of surprises, I'm not going to clarify much other than that, though I am sure if you google a few keywords, you will get some answers. I hope you like where this is going! :) Also, I'm holding Red Tail's identity close to my chest for a little while longer, but it won't be forever!
The Klingon's fear of this "yet to be identified creature" is not canon. The disease I referred to is inspired by the Klingon augment virus. Personality changes was one side effect. There are two ways a Klingon can commit suicide honorably. I added a third: if a warrior is unable to fight because of his fear, he has dishonored himself. To retain honor for the remaining members of his house (but not himself), he must commit suicide.
I realize some of you may want more on the actual Re'an mission. I can't promise anything but I did throw around the idea of someday writing a two or three shot to explain a couple of things. I had logs written for every day on Re'an V but found it too cumbersome to write them all into the story. Honestly, though, I already gave all the information necessary to the story as a whole, because this story is 'much more' than just the Re'an mission. Please just message me if you have a question.
I can't thank Rubyhair enough! She's a wonderful, creative beta who has pushed me at the right times to make this story better! I'd love to explain which plot points of Indigenous she came up with, and in turn inspired me to expand on them, but I can't yet because I think I'd give away too much and I don't want to do that! ;)
I hope you've enjoyed this final installment! I'd love to hear from you. Reviews are like gold and I greatly appreciate them. Even more after a monster story like this one! :0 Hope to see you soon, maybe when I begin posting that sequel. I hope to post the first chapter within a couple of weeks to keep the momentum going. Until next time! :)