3/24/2262
Starbase 12
"Hurry back. This ship will be a bit lonely without the two of you on it."
The Saratoga had docked at Starbase 12. The crew was taking a two day shore leave and Alyen,
L'Naym and D'Ray were disembarking. They would be boarding the USS Cirrus, which would
be heading to Starbase Alpha. From there they would take a transport to Nlia where L'Naym
would spend a month of maternity leave. Kirk had gotten to know D'Ray well enough to know
that she was already busily planning the ceremony introducing little Jay'veen to his family back home.
Alyen meanwhile had gently put his hand on his Captain's shoulder. "As our lives won't have quite
as much joy when you're not sharing it with us, Jim."
"Oh, I think you'll have plenty of joy." Kirk smiled down at little Jay'veen nestled in L'Naym's arms.
During the two days following the Naming the new parents had introduced their son to every member
of the Saratoga who hadn't been able to make it to the Ceremony. Little Jay'veen was already
very popular, especially with the young people. Little Trisha had firmly declared herself his protector
and had become practically joined at the hip.
L'Naym stepped forward and gently laid her baby in the Captain's arms. Kirk immediately cradled
him close. He had expected to love his little nephew from the start. Yet the first time he had held him,
it had stirred in him something so deep and powerful he had almost felt like he were drowning.
His time in command of the Saratoga had changed him forever, his bond with his Soul Siblings
even more so. But when he had cradling the tiny body for the first time he had known that he had
changed in ways that he couldn't begin to measure. He couldn't imagine that any child had ever
been more precious, or that any uncle's heart could be more filled with love.
As if sensing his thoughts, both Alyen and L'Naym drew closer and put their arms around him.
Three Souls touched
Two Joined Souls and the Soul they had touched.
*You are our brother, Jim. As much as if you were our own flesh.
And you are Jay'veen's uncle. You are our family.*
*I know,* the Touched Soul whispered. *And I'm glad.*
*You are Jim and you are ours.*
*You are Shylea and Tuskaro. You are one and you are mine.*
The Touched Soul gazed lovingly down at his nephew. *You're mine too, little guy.
And there's nothing I wouldn't do for you.*
*************************************************************
Later
From one of the observation decks, Kirk silently watched as the Cirrus disengaged from the station.
Take care of my family, he silently charged it. Take care of my family.
END