So, yes, this is the final chapter! A massive thank you to everyone who liked, commented and interacted so far. It's been some ride and I'm mighty glad I've been able to finish this story. Thank you - TT
Eternal fruit
Jim Kirk had been pacing up and down the transporter room for the best part of 15 minutes. He had arrived extra early, around 20 minutes before the arranged time when the beaming process would be initiated and, hopefully, bring his five crewmen home.
Lieutenant Kyle kept an eye on his tense CO who seemed to be checking the time every 30 seconds or so. The captain obviously didn't realize that asking the time didn't make it pass any more quickly. And yet, the officer could understand his superior's nervousness, for he felt exactly the same. Everyone aboard the Enterprise did.
The last few hours had been challenging to say the least. The transporter expert had double and triple checked the functionalities of the machine and its computers to ensure that, at least from their end, the transportation process would go as planned. All was working as it should and Kyle felt strangely confident that this incident would reach a happy conclusion for all involved. Not least for their captain who not only was waiting for five men to return, but, as all aboard the ship were acutely aware of, his two best friends.
The Lieutenant wasn't sure what warranted his hopefulness. He knew the odds were 50:50 and he usually wasn't prone to exuberant optimism. But right now, 7 minutes from the all or nothing moment, he felt strangely positive. Maybe he just believed that they deserved a happy ending after the rollercoaster of emotions they had all experienced during the last 48 hours. The news of the missing Cassiopeia, the powerful and damaging encounter with the wormhole, the disappearance of the first landing party, the uncertainty about the fate of the search party, the sad confirmation of the Cassiopeia crew having perished, and the shock when they learned that potentially none of the men would ever make it back to the ship. The crew had weathered many a storm in the last two years or so, but Kyle couldn't remember such a tense and uncertain period like the last couple of days.
"Time, Lieutenant Kyle?", Captain Kirk swung around as he reached the far side of the room and continued pacing in the other direction. The impatience, and worry, in his voice was undisguised.
"6 minutes 31 seconds, Sir", Kyle responded.
At that moment, the doors opened and Nurse Chapel and Dr M'Benga entered, carrying medi-kits. Kirk had ordered them to be present, just in case any of the men would need immediate medical attention – should they materialise in the first place, that was. The captain noted grimly that the concern on both their faces probably matched his own tense expression.
Several of his crew, Lieutenants Uhura and Sulu amongst them, had requested to be present in the transporter room at this moment. But Kirk had denied their requests. He wanted to keep onlookers to a minimum – should the unspeakable happen and none of the men were to return, he wanted to spare those crewmembers from the trauma of being present at that tragic moment.
Kirk approached the two medics, an encouraging nod towards M'Benga and a friendly squeeze of Nurse Chapel's shoulder at the ready, to hopefully alleviate their fears a little. How he wished that there would have been someone aboard who would do the same to him right now, someone who could calm his nerves and make the pain inside his cramping stomach go away. But the two men who were most likely to alleviate such worry, were currently not aboard the ship. Kirk glanced at the clock on the transporter console. If luck would be on their side, they would be in 4.28 minutes.
Would all of the men return? Maybe only some of them? Could he blame any of the men for seeking out certain life on that distant planet?
Deep down, Jim believed that Bones and Spock would attempt to return to the ship. And he couldn't envisage a scenario where Scotty would decide differently. He doubted that Brown and Chekov would seek out life on the planet if their three superiors decided not to.
Yes, the more he pondered all possible scenarios, the more Jim was convinced that either all men would return, or none. If nobody returned, he would never know what choice the men had made. The most tragic scenario was if they attempted to return home, but failed. And yet, if nobody returned, he would never know for sure if this had been the case and maybe that was a blessing.
If they don't come back, I can always imagine that they are living a happy life on that planet, Jim pondered in an attempt of comforting himself.
Somehow, that thought made him smile. Imagining how Bones and Spock were marooned together on a strange planet was no doubt a fascinating thought, to say the least. The captain pressed his lips as not to chuckle, which he deemed highly inappropriate at this moment. But the thought of Scotty, Brown and Chekov soon getting exasperated with his friends' constant quarrelling was somehow amusing to him. As the old Terran proverb went, Spock and Bones continuing to quarrel even when marooned together on a distant world, would be 'as certain as death and taxes.'
The madness of the situation, and all the bearable and unbearable variables it brought with it, filled Kirk with a strange feeling of amused exasperation. There was nothing he could do now anyway, so he might as well just throw his hands up and laugh at the craziness of it all. If he would have been on his own in the transporter room, Jim mused, he'd probably do exactly that!
"1 minute, Sir", Lieutenant Kyle said quietly.
Dr M'Benga and Nurse Chapel exchanged a tense look. A small sigh escaped Kirk. Mercifully, he had been distracted by his own meandering thoughts during those last few minutes that had made time pass far quicker than he had hoped.
The captain positioned himself behind Kyle at the transporter console. He'd keep one eye on the Lieutenant's hands and one eye fixed to the platform. Within seconds they would know if they'd see their five comrades again.
"10,9,8 …. ", Kyle's did his best to sound as calm and collected as possible.
My brave men, you've served gallantly until the end… we'll never forget you…
"…7,6,5", Kyle's fingers were ready and steady on the transporter knobs, ready to initiate the beaming process .
Scotty, my miracle worker… Pavel and Delroy, so young…
"…4,3,2"
Bones, Spock – please don't go where I can't follow.
"1!", Lieutenant Kyle pulled down the knobs on the console and initiated the beaming process.
He just wanted to fall to his knees and cry out all the pain, sorrow, exhaustion and shock he had felt during the last 48 hours or so. And cry. Just cry. But Captain Kirk was frozen to the spot behind the transporter console. The moment Lieutenant Kyle had initiated the beaming process, it had become instantly clear that the transporter beam was catching on to something.
Something… someone… was clearly caught in the beam and ready, eager, determined to be returned to the ship.
Lieutenant Kyle pushed the knobs down further, increasing the power of the beam to maximum. Everyone present could now clearly see that five humanoid forms were slowly materialising on the platform.
Jim held his breath. He wouldn't breath again until he was certain that his men had safely returned.
No, this wasn't the Peak of Fools. And he hadn't died. This was the bright light of the transporter room… which he had been briefly blinded by only a few days ago for the very first time… the Enterprise's transporter room! He was alive. They had made it. Somehow, the odds had been on their side again!
Pavel Chekov turned his head to see Del Brown next to him on the transporter platform. In front of them, Mr Spock, Mr Scott and Dr McCoy.
And … exhale. A long breath escaped Jim Kirk's lungs. There they were – all five of them! They looked stunned, exhausted, overwhelmed with relief, but very much alive!
Dr M'Benga and Nurse Chapel were the first to approach the new arrivals. The two medics greeted the men halfway up the steps to the transporter platform, scanning them for any internal or external injuries and asking them to confirm their condition. All of them stated that they were well.
After this initial exchange had transpired, the men slowly came down the steps and congregated in the middle of the room. As the shock of realizing that they were still alive slowly faded, they exchanged relieved smiles with one another and with Dr M'Benga, Nurse Chapel and Lieutenant Kyle, who had stepped forward from behind the transporter console to greet them.
Captain Kirk watched all of this transpire with a soft smile. He was grateful for these few moments as they allowed him to let all the worry and exhaustion slip away from him … there was nothing he needed to hold on anymore. He felt palpable relief but even more so, he simply felt happy. In fact, he could hardly remember another occasion where his heart had been filled with so much joy.
Mr Spock was the first of the landing party to realise that the captain was present in the room. After having confirmed to be in good health to an overjoyed looking Nurse Chapel, Spock turned towards Kirk, who stood behind the transporter console, still and silent.
"Captain! The landing party has returned in good health. I take it you and the rest of the crew are in good health, too?"
Only now Bones realised that Jim was standing at the back of the room. He had been so stunned when he found himself alive and well on the transporter platform that he hadn't noticed much around him in the first few moments. Nurse Chapel and Dr M'Benga had surrounded him and the others immediately. He obediently told them that he, and the whole group, appeared to be well. A thorough check of Spock was in order of course, but Bones deemed it sensible to wait with such a proclamation until the initial moments of euphoria had passed. He would conduct Spock's medical himself but he would request Dr M'Benga to be present in order to benefit from his expertise regarding Vulcan physiology.
Spock's exclamation seemed rather clumsy, and yet perfectly adequate and appropriate, McCoy noted privately. It was the first question that was on his own mind, too. As he was slowly but surely calming down, now that they were all safe, Bones biggest concern was for the captain and the rest of the crew. He sincerely hoped that there hadn't been any more nasty encounters with the wormhole and that Jim had gotten through the whole ordeal unharmed, physically and mentally.
Kirk stepped forward, coming to a halt right in front of Spock. A wide, soft grin appeared on the captain's face.
Jim grabbed hold of Spock's thin shoulders. As his smile grew wider and wider, he ordered himself not to hug his First Officer – he sincerely wished to do so, but he knew the Vulcan wasn't fond of any overtly human emotional reactions. Instead, he just gently squeezed his shoulders.
"Spock! …all is well. The crew are well. I am, we all are…" at this, the captain glanced over to Chapel, M'Benga and Kyle, "so happy to have you all back."
The warmth in Kirk's eyes was radiating over his whole face now and it was met by an unguardedly relaxed and grateful nod from Spock. Witnessing this happy exchange, made Bones' heart sing. They were home.
Jim now turned to Scotty, shaking the Scotsman's hand with a lot of might while putting his other hand firmly on his shoulder.
"Scotty…!"
"Captain! I sure am happy to see ya's!"
"And we are happy to see you, Mr Scott! The Enterprise has missed you!"
"Aye. And I have missed her, you can take my word for it, Sir!", Scotty got misty eyed and Jim's smile got even wider, if that was even possible.
The captain now turned to Del Brown and Pavel Chekov, padding their shoulders.
"Welcome home, Lieutenant… Del! Welcome home, Ensign…. Pavel! I can't tell you how glad I am to have you both back!", Kirk exclaimed, his tone still warm, but serious now.
Bones had to gulp. Yes, they'd been through hell and back. But he didn't even dare to imagine how hard this period must have been for Jim. He knew that his captain and friend must have struggled, while their own fates had been written in the stars of a distant galaxy.
"Thank you, Sir. So are we. Ready at your service!", the eagerness was audible in Brown's voice.
"Zank you, Ceptein. It's good to be home, Ceptein.", Chekov's sincerity at calling the Enterprise home, a place he had only known for a few days, didn't escape those present.
Jim now turned to the CMO. Last but not least. Bones …
No words were necessary in that moment. Kirk and McCoy exchanged a hearty hug.
Jim held on tight to the doctor's slim torso.
"Jim…", Bones' gentle voice was finally reaching the captain's ears after what had felt like an eternity.
"If you squeeze me any harder I might have to report to sickbay after all with a few broken ribs!"
Jim slowly, reluctantly, dropped his arms. He took a step back to have a good look at the doctor. Bones looked exhausted but markedly calm. His whole demeanour seemed to radiate tranquillity. Well, they all were content in that moment, that much was certain. But something about his friend seemed different… like he was at peace. Of course, he would be, now that they were safe and had survived. But something in Bones' eyes told him that everything was well, everything was as it should be. Hadn't he detected a similar, undeniable tranquillity in Spock's eyes earlier?
McCoy directed his warmest smile at Jim, a smile only reserved to those dearest to him, or to those in the biggest need of comfort.
"It's good to be back, Captain!"
Kirk nodded, and so did Brown, Chekov and Scotty. It sure was!
"But I have to say I'm disappointed about your welcoming committee, Jim. I at least expected a glass of Saurian brandy to cheer our miraculous return!"
"Aye!", Scotty agreed vociferously.
"Your fondness for alcoholic beverages surly wasn't on the forefront of the Captain's mind, Doctor. He'll be more interested in hearing our report on the events that transpired on D-JMA."
"You ever heard of the term ' partypooper', Spock?'
The Vulcan raised an eyebrow.
"I haven't, Doctor. No doubt you'll entertain me by explaining the terminology."
"Oh, that is easy – it's what you are, Spock. You are a partypooper! Or killjoy would be an alternative term."
Chuckles all around. M'Benga and Chapel exchanged a smile – how good it was to have those two back! Always good for some light relief.
Kirk's soft smile reappeared. He looked from his FO to his CMO. Some things never changed, and for that he would be eternally grateful. And yet… as he witnessed the broad grin McCoy directed towards Spock and the hint of amusement in the Vulcan's eyes who, uncharacteristically, let the doctor seemingly have the last word on this occasion, Jim instinctively knew that something had changed.
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First stop sickbay. Under Captain Kirk's watchful eyes, the landing party underwent a thorough examination to make sure all of them were in good health and no intergalactic bacteria had been beamed back on board.
McCoy explained to Dr M'Benga that he should be the first to undergo his examination as he wanted to conduct Mr Spock's medical himself. This raised not only eyebrows amongst the medics, but also the captain's. And, of course, those of Mr Spock.
Jim sensed that Bones had his reasons to insist that he, as CMO, should conduct Spock's examination. But, for now, he deemed it sensible to refrain from ascertaining why the doctor insisted on this. Kirk was sure that the exact reasons would be made known to him during the debrief at the latest. But first things first. Medical assessments, hot steam showers, a decent meal and several hours rest would be on the men's schedule before the debriefing would take place the next morning.
Dr M'Benga conducted a thorough examination of Dr McCoy while two other doctors examined Brown, Chekov and Scotty. Nurse Chapel meanwhile, started Mr Spock's examination by taking blood samples. Once McCoy's assessment had been concluded – he was in good health apart from signs of exhaustion - he took charge of Spock's medical.
As Bones asked Spock to lie down on the bio-bed and walked around it to retrieve some additional scanning instruments, the doctor's eyes met the captain's.
He knows something serious has happened to Spock… I better put his mind at ease…
McCoy briefly, and gently, touched Kirk's upper arm. He spoke quietly:
"Nothing to worry about, Jim."
The CO nodded, appreciating his friend's encouraging words. He trusted his CMO implicitly. If Bones said, he needn't worry, he wouldn't.
Kirk stuck around a little while longer before leaving for the bridge.
The Enterprise was on route to Starbase 3, the nearest base in this quadrant, to deliver the intact dilithium crystals that had been successfully retrieved from Adelous 4. He would see his five intergalactic travellers soon enough, in around 10 hours' time, for the debrief. The men deserved a hearty meal, maybe a drink or two in Bones and Scotty's case, and a good rest. Hell, he did, too.
Jim looked forward to sleep easy again for the first time in days. Finally, he could allow his mind and body to rest. But not before checking all was well on the bridge and informing Uhura and Sulu, and the rest of the crew, that their shipmates had arrived safely and were now recuperating.
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Kirk had just lied down, ready to get comfortable in the land of Z's, when his door buzzed. A quick look at the monitor on his bedside table revealed that McCoy was standing outside his quarters. Surprised, Jim swung his legs around and sat up. He called the doctor to come in.
"Hope I'm not interrupting your rest, Jim. I thought I better let you know personally that all is well with Spock, too. The final blood results have just come back. Apart from some medium level of exhaustion, he's in good health."
Kirk nodded appreciatively.
"Thank you, Bones. That's reassuring to hear. But what about your rest? I thought you'd be tucked in nice and comfortably by now!", Kirk responded with a grin, but sounding slightly admonishing.
McCoy sat down at the table in the middle of the room.
"Well, I've showered, I've eaten, I had a good natter with Christine, M'Benga and everyone else in sickbay… all that's missing now before it's shuteye time, is waiting for me over there in that lovely wooden cabinet of yours", McCoy exclaimed with a twinkle in his eye.
Jim had to chuckle. Of course! He knew the doctor much preferred to drink in company, than on his own. And by god, couldn't he do with a drink or two himself! He fetched the finest bottle in his possession and two nice glasses.
Bones' eyes lit up as Jim put a bottle of 150 year old Saurian brandy in front of him.
"Now look at that! One could get the feeling we've got something to celebrate!"
"You tell me, Bones!"
They exchanged a chuckle while the captain poured the drinks. He raised his glass, and so did the doctor.
"Good health, Bones. I'm glad you're back. More than you'll ever know."
The CMO turned stony faced.
"There really is such a thing as luck, Jim. I never believed in it. I do now", Bones raised his glass, "to five lucky bastards!"
"To five lucky bastards", Jim responded with a soft smile.
They both took a healthy sip, enjoying the burning sensation as the cloudy liquid was making its way down their throats and into their stomachs.
As they both settled into their chairs comfortably, Jim bestowed the doctor with an inquisitive look.
"Care to tell me, what happened to Spock, Bones?"
At first it seemed that a long sigh was all the response Jim would get. His CMO didn't look like elaborating. All of a sudden he looked extremely tired, as if he could fall asleep any second.
"Bones? What is it?"
"I'd rather have Spock tell you himself, Jim. There's so much to tell you… all I can say is that it was a close call."
Kirk nodded. He understood. He could only imagine what those men had gone through. All would come out in the wash soon enough during the debrief. What mattered was that the landing party had returned safely. Nothing else was of major importance at this moment in time.
"It's ok, Bones. We'll talk about everything soon. I think you really should get some rest now." Kirk caught McCoy's yearning look towards his bed. Before he could say something, the doctor had gotten up from his chair.
"You don't mind, do you?"
Jim smiled. How could he say no to any of his friend's requests right now? If Bones decided to walk out of the room with the bottle of Saurian brandy in his hand, he wouldn't have stopped him. And he wouldn't stop him from lying down on his bed to finally get the sleep he so deserved.
In that moment, the door to Kirk's quarters buzzed again. This is turning into a nice little party, Jim thought amusedly as he saw Spock standing outside. He asked him to come in.
Spock tilted his head slightly as he saw McCoy getting comfortable on the captain's bed.
"Oh, hello Spock! Don't mind me, gentlemen, but please leave me some of that good stuff. Something tells me I might need another glass after our debrief later", the doctor mumbled and with that he closed his eyes, turned around and … fell asleep.
The FO's eyes came to rest on the bottle of Saurian brandy and the two empty glasses.
"Spock! Can I offer you a glass?", Kirk said with a glint in his eyes. He kind of knew already what the answer would be, but it was only polite to offer his First Officer the same curtesy he had bestowed on his CMO.
"I usually don't partake as you're well aware, Captain. But I think the occasion calls for me to break with tradition for once", Spock exclaimed.
Now it was Kirk's turn to raise an eyebrow for a change.
"Well, I'll be damned…", some sleepy mumbling reached them from the sleeping area.
"I thought you were asleep, Bones!", Kirk hollered back, unsuccessfully attempting to supress some laughter.
"I am! Leave me to it, will ya?"
The captain turned back to his other guest.
"Very well, Spock." Jim poured the Vulcan a small glass, much less than he had poured into McCoy's glass earlier. He didn't want to knock his already exhausted FO out. He poured himself a larger glass of course – who knew when the opportunity would arise again that Spock would be willing to have a drink with him. He raised his glass, talking quietly as not to disturb the doctor's sleep any further.
"To good health, Spock! I'm glad you're here"
The Vulcan nodded in acknowledgement. He hesitated for a moment before he raised his glass.
Jim sensed that Spock was thinking about what to respond. It also didn't escape him that the Vulcan briefly glanced over to his bed where the doctor was now evidently fast asleep, as the sound of gentle snoring was filling the room.
Could it be that he detected a hint of relief in Spock's eyes? Like he was reassured that all was well. That his captain was well. That the doctor was well.
Jim hoped that this was a sign that the complex relationship between those two hadn't suffered during their absence. Maybe the opposite was the case, maybe it had improved. He would find out soon enough, of that he was certain.
The Vulcan raised his glass, his voice calm and confident:
"So are we, Jim."
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Kirk had managed to sleep a few good hours on his small sofa. The peeping of his alarm had just awoken him. Jim noted that Bones was still occupying his bed, snoring peacefully, while Spock was sitting still like a statue at the table, his hands folded in a prayer gesture. The Vulcan was in a deep resting trance and had maintained exactly the same posture since he started to meditate soon after they had toasted their return.
Kirk checked the clock next to the sofa – the debrief in conference room 2 was scheduled in 30 minutes. Apart from Mr Spock, Dr McCoy and the rest of the landing party, he had requested the presence of Lieutenants Uhura, Sulu and Kyle, Lieutenant Mandelson who had acted as chief engineer during Scotty's absence, as well as Dr M'Benga. Jim had requested the doctor attend the meeting as he anticipated that there would be some revelation as to what exactly happened to Spock during the rescue mission. Hence, having an expert in Vulcan physiology in attendance was prudent, Jim had concluded.
He walked over to his bed and gently touched the doctor's shoulders.
"Bones, wake up. It's time for the debrief", Jim said not too loudly.
McCoy stretched his limps and sat up with a long yawn.
"I had the strangest dream, Jim. Spock was drinking Saurian brandy!", at that the doctor's eyes came to rest on the motionless Vulcan. And the empty glass in front of him. The captain chuckled softly.
"Not a dream, Bones. Reality! I couldn't quite believe it myself!"
"Well, I hope our green-blooded Vulcan is not suffering any long-term effects. He sure looks like it knocked him out!"
Jim and Bones exchanged a smile but suddenly, and rather unexpectedly, Spock's deep baritone from the other side of the room gave them both a fright.
"I can assure you I haven't received any blows, Doctor."
"Goddamit, Spock! We thought you were asleep!", McCoy growled.
"I was."
"Don't tell me, you're able to hear and see while you're asleep!"
"Basically, that's correct, Doctor. What you refer to as sleep, I refer to as a resting trance. I've trained myself to have my senses alert in case I'm being called to duty while resting."
McCoy threw his hands up in exasperation but refrained from commenting further, which didn't go unnoticed by Kirk. He looked from one to the other – Bones, stretching his tired limps, Spock sitting comfortably in his chair, looking content. How good it was to have them back.
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The atmosphere in Conference 2 was quietly jubilant. Those that had been left behind on the Enterprise, in constant worry for their missing crewmates, were excited to see the five men had returned in good health and spirits. But with the exception of Mr Spock, the landing party members all still looked rather groggy and exhausted. So, Lieutenants Uhura, Sulu, Mendelson and Kyle were careful not to overbear their friends with too many questions.
Captain Kirk had decided to turn the debrief into a working breakfast as he was well aware that the meeting would last several hours and he didn't want to deprive Spock, McCoy, Scott, Brown and Chekov of a hearty brunch. A yeowoman had filled the table with Andorian herbal tea for Spock, plenty of strong, hot coffee McCoy had requested, as well as cheeses, cold meats, freshly baked bread rolls, pancakes, fresh fruit and Danishes.
The captain started the meeting with a few moments of quiet reflection and remembrance for their fallen comrade Lieutenant Mandelson, which everyone present observed with heavy hearts.
Then, Kirk began with his part of the debrief. Spock, McCoy, Scott, Chekov and Brown listened attentively as he informed them of the sad fate of the Cassiopeia crew. Lieutenant Kyle gave a brief account of how he fixed the transporter just in time and beamed the remaining dilithium crystals back on board. Mendelson, Uhura and Sulu chipped in here and there to report on the ongoing repairs of the ship's computers and machinery that had been damaged during the encounter with the wormhole and that were now nearly completed.
The opening part of the debrief didn't last longer than 15 minutes. Kirk could sense that the brevity of his report was much appreciated. Everyone, including himself, was dying to find out what exactly happened to the landing party on the other side of the wormhole. He was in no doubt that what they would hear wouldn't be anything but remarkable.
He was right. During the next two hours or so, Spock, with supporting contributions by McCoy, Scotty, Brown and Chekov, gave a detailed account of the events that had transpired on D-JMA. At times the First Officer was met with baffled looks by the non-landing party attendees. Lieutenant Uhura had been tasked with filing the debrief report and there were several occasions where she had to double-check with Spock if what he had just regaled could be accurate. This was particularly true for his description of the Strah-leus' energy harvesting machinery and his and Chekov's findings regarding the wormhole. A perpetuum mobile machine? How could such a thing exist? Well, it did, and Spock and the others had thankfully survived the ordeal to tell the tale.
McCoy, for the most part, listened quietly to Spock's account. He only chipped in brief contributions here and there, especially when it came to reporting on Chekov's injury and recovery. The further the First Officer's report progressed, the more visibly restless – and irritated – the CMO got.
Yes, Spock was brilliant at describing what had happened to them – giving a detailed account covering everything from the Egnaro and Ro-n-do to the predicament they found themselves in at the end.
So far so good. But Spock left out a crucial part of the story. With no word did the Vulcan mention that he had nearly died. That he had only been able to discard McCoy's medical advice by pulling rank on him. That Bones, Chekov, Brown and Scotty had been left to believe that Spock was dead. That he owned his life to Ro-n-do. And, of course, no mention of all their arguments and that they both broke their promise to Jim.
Bones crossed his arms. Ok, maybe it was best the captain didn't learn about their arguments…
Vulcans didn't lie - they omitted. The doctor shook his head. Spock had just given a masterclass of this curious trait of his people. McCoy realised that Scotty had noticed his reaction and he could see in the CEO's eyes that he was also slightly baffled that Spock was leaving out major parts of the story. Unfortunately, Jim had also observed his irritation.
"What is it, Dr McCoy? Do you have anything to add?", Kirk asked inquisitively. He had noticed the look on Bones' face gradually becoming more and more irritated as Spock was reaching the end of his report. And he had a pretty good idea as to why that was. His First Officer still hadn't clarified what exactly had happened to him that had made McCoy very eager to conduct a full medical on him after their return.
Spock raised an eyebrow and turned his head towards the doctor. Bones wasn't sure what to make of the Vulcan's look. He seemed tense, and yet somehow curious at the same time, as to what his response to the captain's question would be.
Bones shifted uncomfortably in his chair. All eyes were on him. He noted privately that maybe before all of this, he would have happily taken the opportunity to tell Jim exactly what had transpired, down to minute detail. And give him his piece of mind about Spock's ignorance of his medical authority and pig-headedness. How, in a way, he had risked all their lives, while, well, trying to save their lives... But what good was it to rehash old arguments? If he did so, he'd have to admit that he also didn't obey Jim's order and dishonoured the promise he had made shortly before they left.
McCoy sighed. He was obliged to give an accurate account of what had happened. Honesty is the best medicine… He decided to be factual but, for a change, leave out any unnecessary emotional judgments.
"Yes, I do. Mr Spock failed to mention that he nearly died", the doctor sounded more exhausted than exasperated.
All eyes now turned to Mr Spock. Dr M'Benga gasped audibly. Jim looked quizzingly at his FO who didn't look like elaborating. But there was no need as McCoy continued with his account.
"Due to the low temperature I strongly advised Mr Spock to initiate the Vulcan hibernation trance as I feared that if he didn't, he'd fall into a life-threatening coma from which I'd be unable to awake him while on the planet. He decided against my advice to rest, in order to go and look for Mr Scott and Lieutenants Brown and Monet. Shortly after locating them, he initiated the hibernation trance after all. Thanks to Ro-n-do significantly heating up the room where we were held, Spock's bodily functions were restored. But just before this occurred, I had presumed him dead, as I couldn't detect any vital signs at that point anymore. Thankfully, Spock awoke from his trance soon after", the CMO concluded his recollections.
A small, hardly audible, sigh of relief escaped Spock at that point, only audible to Kirk who was sitting next to him. The captain's eyes hadn't left McCoy's face during his account. The doctor sounded uncharacteristically formal and factual. As baffling as his story had been, Jim was more concerned with what he hadn't said.
"Fascinating", Jim observed, bestowing a surprised look at his First Officer who tried his best to look unfazed.
"I mean not only is it fascinating what happened to you, Mr Spock. I also find it fascinating that you failed to mention any of this in your report", the captain added. There was a hardly detectable smile on Kirk's face, but the admonishing tone was clear for all to hear.
Bones exhaled audibly. He really wasn't in the mood for Jim to make a song and dance about Spock's tendency to omit crucial bits of information he deemed as unimportant, that in actual fact often were the most important parts of a story. He just hoped they would get this debrief over with as soon as possible. No doubt, Jim would pester him with more questions privately and the moment would arise when he would have to come clean and reveal everything that had happened. Including his own nasty turns against Spock.
"I didn't deem it to be crucial information for the purpose of this debrief, Captain", Spock replied matter-of-factly.
Jim now turned his attention back to the doctor, looking at him expectantly. As no further elaborations were forthcoming from his CMO, he decided to use a different tactic to get the full picture.
"I see. Dr McCoy, am I correct in assuming, that Mr Spock's reluctance to comply with your medical advice, would have let to, shall we say, some significant protestations from your side?"
Here we go, Bones thought as his heart sank. Jim wasn't in the mood to wait for all the juicy details. And why should he? It was his right, no, his obligation as Captain of the Enterprise, and as their friend, to get a full account of what had transpired. And not just the bits Spock and himself had picked to share.
"What do you think, Jim? Of course it bloody did!", so much for sticking to the 'calm and collected' gameplan, Bones … the doctor admonished himself. Interestingly, he felt more annoyance at the captain than at Spock at this moment.
Uhura exchanged an intrigued look with Sulu. She could see in the helmsman's eyes that he also felt that more must have transpired than what had been shared with them so far. She stole a glimpse at Scotty, Chekov and Brown. Surly, they must have witnessed most, if not all, of what had occurred between the FO and CMO? Scotty just quietly mumbled something inaudible to himself. Chekov looked from McCoy to Spock with some empathy. Brown impatiently crossed his arms, looking like he felt that it was time to conclude this debrief, as nothing more sensible would be added.
"On a few occasions during this assignment, the Doctor and I had diverging opinions regarding certain aspects of the mission, Jim. But I can assure you that any disputes were resolved satisfactorily", Spock added helpfully.
Bones shot the Vulcan a quick, appreciative look. Thanks, Spock. I couldn't have summarised it better… and more understatedly if I tried, Bones thought sarcastically.
Jim looked from Bones to Spock – the former looking slightly exasperated, the latter his usual calm and confident self. Whatever they weren't telling him right now, he'd have to get it out of them in private. For the purpose of this debrief, nearly everything of importance had now been recorded, he was certain of that. There was no need to add anything that regarded the impact of the mission on his officers on a personal level that could be of interest to Starfleet. The only aspect that still needed to be explored was the wormhole itself, and more importantly, its future.
To his CMO and FO's relief the captain now turned his focus onto the wormhole and the findings Spock and Chekov had made on D-JMA in that regard.
Spock began his summary by stating that they had come very far in understanding the extremely rare phenomena that was at the heart of their recent adventure. From suspicions early on that they might be confronted with an intelligent force, to understanding its highly volatile and unpredictable energy fluctuations on both entrances, to Ensign Chekov's brilliant solution of how to make it disappear, their understanding of the wormhole had come a long way.
The FO made a point of praising Chekov's simple, yet insightful solution of how to make the wormhole vanish once and for all. The Strah-leus had been very appreciative of the plan. And so would any future space traveller in the local vicinity, assured in the knowledge that they couldn't accidently be transferred into another galaxy anymore.
Captain Kirk and the other attendees had listened attentively. Everyone shared the relief that the wormhole soon wouldn't present any danger anymore. The CO thoughtfully rubbed his chin as he thought out aloud:
"The parallels to our own Human history are quite striking. The Strah-leus' problems regarding damaging waste from their energy production, reminds me of the extreme pollution on a recently industrialised Earth during the 20th and 21th century, when mankind relied heavily on damaging fossil fuels."
"Before Humans refocused their efforts on facilitating the survival of their species and begun to sufficiently protect their home planet", Spock added poignantly.
Kirk now turned towards the young navigator.
"Mr Chekov!"
"Yes, Ceptein?"
"You've conducted yourself with a high level of professionalism and have displayed some brilliant ingenuity – and doing so while recovering from a serious head injury. Thanks to your superb insights, the wormhole will no longer pose a threat to the Federation and Starfleet. Or the Strah-leus. Nor anyone else for that matter. I will therefore add a note of recommendation to your file."
Smiles on all of the attendee's faces appeared (minus Spock, but the Vulcan nodded in approval). Sulu turned towards his friend and noted bemusedly that the navigator's facial colour had turned bright red.
Jim softened his tone and bestowed an encouraging smile on the youngster.
"Well done, Pavel. I hope you can now comprehend that there's nothing you should feel guilty for. Nothing whatsoever."
Chekov had to clear his throat before he was able to speak. His mouth felt very dry all of a sudden, and his head seemed to be burning. Maybe he had caught too much sun on D-JMA?
"No, Sair. I mean, yes, Sair. I know I've done my best. And tank you, Sair", Chekow stuttered. There was so much more he wanted to express – the bravery of his comrades, his gratefulness of having encountered Ro-n-do, his gratitude towards Dr McCoy for having healed his head injury - but it would have to wait as he suddenly felt very tongue tied for some reason.
"I second the Captain's remarks, Ensign. As your departmental overseeing officer, I will also add a recommendation to your personal file."
All Pavel could muster was a shy nod. Such praise - first from the captain, and now from Mr Spock - was almost too much to bear. He felt obliged to voice his gratitude towards his most senior officers. He mentally pulled himself together, took a deep breath and ordered himself to speak as calmly as possible.
"Zank you, Mr Spock. And zank you to Mr Scott, Lieutenant Brown and Dr McCoy. Witout all of your support, I don't know how I'd survived. Witout Dr McCoy's care I tink I wouldn't have lasted long", the Russian said quietly as he nodded appreciatively towards the doctor.
"Don't mention it, Pavel. That's my job. You're a tough little feller and I hope you now feel that you've passed your first test on this mission with flying colours!", Bones replied with a generous smile.
"I do, Doctor. I really do. I don't tink I was ever so scared in my life but if I could experience it all again, I would!", Pavel Chekov beamed, his voice confident again, the red blush slowly disappearing from his face.
In that moment, Jim Kirk came to realise that he'd found a crewman in the young Russian that would serve with him until the end of his career.
Just as Kirk was about to conclude the debriefing session, engineering officer Mendelson, who, so far, had remained mostly silent, leaned forward in his seat.
"Out of curiosity, what happened to the Hoffmann 7 probe? I know it's defunct, but did you just leave it behind?"
Spock raised an eyebrow and exchanged a quick look with Mr Scott who just crossed his arms and put on his innocent 'I'm not sure what you are talking about' face. Chekov and Brown did their best to supress a grin. Kirk noticed the men's reluctance to elaborate, so he turned towards Spock, with an expectant look.
"Good point, Mr Mendelson. I had nearly forgotten about the probe. Mr Spock?"
"As stated, the Hoffmann 7 probe is defunct. Therefore, we didn't see any issue in leaving it behind."
Kirk could tell from Spock's scarce response that there was probably more to it. Everyone in the room knew what concerns lied behind Mendelson's question. But since the probe was defunct, there wasn't anything else to add to the mission report, Kirk decided.
The captain ended the debrief by praising everyone in attendance. The landing party 5 for their bravery, resilience and ingenuity, and the other officers for their persistence and professionalism in never giving up on their missing shipmates. Kirk ordered Lieutenant Uhura to send her report to Starfleet within the hour, including his strong recommendation to close this sector of space for the next six months. After that period, he recommended measurements should be taken again on local energy fluctuations. If the wormhole had disappeared by then, the area could be opened up again for all space travel.
As Jim stepped into the corridor, where Chekov, Scotty, Mendelson and Brown were chatting animatedly, he caught up with Spock and McCoy before they disappeared in their quarters to get some more well deserved rest. He instructed them to meet him at his quarters later in the evening. Bones and Spock exchanged a knowing look. Their friend's curiosity would have to be quenched.
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Around 8 hours later, McCoy and Spock arrived in the captain's quarters. Jim had ordered some more herbal tea for his FO and another glass of Saurian brandy, served in his most treasured chalice, was waiting for the CMO. They got comfortable around Kirk's desk. Before either of the visitors could have a sip of their preferred beverage, the captain cut right to the chase.
"So, what else was happening down there that you haven't told me about yet?" Kirk asked, intrigued.
"Down there, Captain?", Spock played innocent.
"You know what I mean, Spock. Down there in Andromeda!", Jim shot back with an inpatient look, but his eyes were shining warmly.
Bones took a small sip from the Saurian liquid. He didn't feel reluctant anymore to give Jim an account of what they hadn't quite told him yet - this was a private conversation between friends and it meant that he wouldn't have to go on official record stating that he believed Spock acted recklessly in defying his medical instructions. Yes, it wouldn't be comfortable to admit to his own wrongdoings, especially when it came to disobeying Jim's order he had given them just before they had sat off. But Bones was well aware that he wouldn't manage to hold back vital information from Jim forever.
"I believe we have already accounted for everything that happened during the debrief, Captain", Spock offered, rather unhelpfully.
"Not everything", Kirk responded with an eager look.
Bones sighed. It wouldn't be easy for Jim to get Spock to talk about their arguments. The master of omitting was at work again. It would fall to him to let the cat out of the bag.
Kirk crossed his arm, still looking expectantly at his First Officer.
"If you are referring to the Hoffmann 7 probe, Captain, all I can add is that the Strah-leus requested for it to be left behind, despite its current state. Since it is defunct, I didn't object to their request as no regulations would be broken by doing so. For the purpose of transparency though, I have to note that the Strah-leus have speculated that one day their technological advances might allow them to repair, and alter, the probe and make it capable of intergalactic transmissions. My understanding is, there are some inquisitive minds amongst them, that deem it possible that their race will one day develop curiosity towards other species and might favour contact with the Federation."
"Aha", Kirk commented dryly, leaning back in his chair. There wasn't much point pursuing Spock at that moment, Jim decided, so he directed his inquisitive look at the doctor instead who sighed deeply.
"I'm sorry, Spock. Sooner or later Jim will get to the truth anyway, so isn't it just logical to get it over with now?"
The Vulcan raised an eyebrow but refrained from commenting further, which was more of a surprise to the captain than to the doctor. Intrigued, Kirk looked from one to the other.
"The truth is, Jim, and forgive me that I didn't want to put this on the official record earlier, both Spock and I disobeyed the last order you gave us before we left", McCoy said, regret clearly audible in his voice.
So, I was right… of course there were arguments. Jim was glad that Bones admitted to it.
"We both broke our promise to you. We didn't get on for the most part. And neither of us did make much of an attempt to do so. Until the very end, when circumstances forced us to get over ourselves and find common ground on how to deal with the difficult choices we had to make."
Spock was listening attentively, the fingertips of both hands meeting in front of his chest, the contemplative gesture indicating that McCoy's words were making him reflect.
"For that I'm incredibly sorry, Jim. I did let you down in that regard. And at one point, I was in danger of letting the whole landing party, including myself, down as well", after a heavy sigh, "And for that I'm sorry, too. I said some pretty harsh things to Spock in the heat of the moment… you know how I can be at times…"
Oh yes, I do… Jim thought with exasperation and bemusement in equal measure.
"There were things that needed to be said at the time, but I should have told him privately and not in front of the others. I have apologised to him for that."
Bones paused. Jim was listening intently, his eyes serious and focused. The doctor thought that he couldn't blame his friend for being mad at him. But he knew Jim well enough to understand that his sense of fairness would forbid him to already admonish him… first, he'd have to hear Spock's side of the story as well. Which would be interesting to hear, but Bones trusted the FO to respond in kind and match his own openness by refraining from his usual obfuscation.
"One thing though that I'm not going to apologise for is that I tried my damned hardest to prevent Spock from nearly killing himself. He directly disobeyed my medical orders to rest, to protect him from falling into a hypothermia induced coma, by pulling rank on me. So that was that", Bones looked over at Spock, who was still staring ahead into the void.
"You know how he is as well, Jim… always ready to sacrifice himself. If he had died, we wouldn't be sitting here now", McCoy ended his confession with a defeated look. He wasn't proud on a lot of it, but it had happened, and it couldn't be changed.
A gentle, small smile appeared on Jim's lips as he nodded appreciatively towards the doctor.
"Thank you, Bones. I can't imagine how difficult all of this must have been for you… for both of you. I know you always had each other's, and the landing party's safety, on your mind. Of that I have no doubt. Thank you for your honesty", Jim now turned to his FO who had just let a small sigh escape his lips, the first sound he had made in minutes.
"Spock?", Jim intoned softly.
The Vulcan lowered his hands and rested them in his lap. He looked from the captain, to McCoy and back at Kirk. His voice sounded calm, but uncharacteristically quiet.
"The Doctor has given a truthful account. We are both guilty of having disobeyed your order, Jim. Of having broken the promise we gave you. I also would like to offer my sincere apology for that."
"Accepted", Jim replied, empathy shining in his eyes.
Spock now glanced at McCoy and Kirk thought he could detect regret in the Vulcan's expression.
"Furthermore, I'm also guilty of having directed unjustified accusations against the Doctor. He had confronted me with some truths I hadn't been prepared to admit to myself yet. But once he had done so, I was able to give the only possible order to the landing party that was morally, emotionally and logically sound – that each men should make the final choice for themselves. I'm grateful that Dr McCoy possessed such clarity in emotional and logical insight at that moment, to lead me to this conclusion. We own our lives to it."
Bones had to have another sip of brandy… a healthy sip. He wasn't used to Spock's praise. Would this be something he would have to get used to from now on, the CMO wondered as he swallowed the burning, yet soothing, liquid. Probably not… hold your horses, old boy!
Now it was Kirk's turn to raise an eyebrow. Spock praising and agreeing with Bones? The doctor admitting to his own hot-headedness and apologizing to Spock? … what in heavens was going on? Yes, they'd been through hell and back together, but did it explain such a fundamental change in their relationship? Spock and Bones had been in life and death situations before, and yet they always seemed to come out of them unchanged, still suspicious of each other and constantly questioning the other's motives or behaviours.
"Thank you, Spock. Thank you, both. Admitting to one's mistakes is never easy. Neither for a Human, nor for a Vulcan, or a half-Vulcan/ half-Human, I should imagine", Kirk stated, expressing his empathy for what they had gone through in his kind smile.
"But being able to do so, has always been a quality in my book, which more often than not is outweighing the shortcomings of having committed the mistake in the first place. Like I believe applies in this situation as well", Kirk concluded empathetically.
Spock never ceased to be impressed by Jim's inherit wisdom that always seemed to strike a unique balance between emotional and logical considerations. As he looked over at McCoy he could tell that he shared his appreciation of the captain's words.
Bones raised his glass, silently indicating a toast to what the CO had just said. Jim responded in kind, raising his glass as well.
After he had taken a sip, Kirk shook his head, a bewildered smile on his features.
"Admitting mistakes is one thing, but you two agreeing with each other, praising each other even…you both must have come to some insights during all of this!"
Spock understood that the captain was still baffled about what they had just told him. He felt inclined to be even more forthcoming to help his friend understand. He looked over to the doctor who responded with a bemused smile that seemed to say 'Go on Spock, you tell him!'. For emphasis, McCoy crossed his arms and looked at Spock expectantly.
Since he had broken the promise he had made to Jim before they left, Spock deemed it prudent, that he should make up for such transgression now. And the only logical way to do so, was by offering something of equal significance in return. He would do something, he very rarely did. He had only ever done on a few occasions in his life. And usually, it had occurred with only Jim present. But now he would, and could, include the doctor: He would - voluntarily - talk about his feelings.
Spock took a deep breath before he started to speak. His words came out slower than usual, as if he was weighing up every syllable, but he spoke with conviction.
"At first, I hadn't been aware of being guided purely by my emotions when I intended to order the men to attempt to return to the ship. Unlike Dr McCoy, I had completely disregarded the logical solution to the conundrum we faced – to seek out certain life on the planet the Strah-leus had suggested to us. My strong preference was to attempt beaming back, and, I was prepared to enforce my personal preference onto the others. I wanted to protect you, our Captain, from potentially grieving your men should our lives have been lost in the process. The Doctor made me aware of this, and more. I wanted to protect myself from losing and grieving the life I have here, on the Enterprise, grieving my purpose, my future. My friendship with you, Jim."
Kirk had to take a deep breath. He hadn't expected such an emotional admission by Spock. What's more, he realised how wrong his initial assumptions had been – he had assumed that it would be McCoy who would be steered by his emotions and advocate attempting to return to the ship while Spock, naturally, would support the logical choice of seeking out the planet and certain survival. And yet, he had assumed correctly that it was Bones who had helped Spock to make the only humane and ethically sound decision – to not come down on either side of the argument, but let all of the men decide for themselves which option they wanted to take. It was a baffling revelation, which made him see his two friends in a new light. He thought he knew them better than anyone else, and yet here he was, realising that there was still so much more to learn about them.
Jim smiled benevolently at Spock, expressing his gratefulness for the Vulcan's openness. Before the captain had a chance to think of what to respond, it was Bones' turn to continue with unexpected revelations, his words concluding his and Spock's admissions, truly coming full circle:
"As you can imagine it was child's play to get Spock to admit any of this, Jim", the CMO grinned amusedly, "but I've must have done a good job, because he now has told you as well - without me having to threaten him to pull those pointed ears of his if he doesn't!"
Spock's eyebrows shot up into his hairline but he remained silent.
McCoy turned serious again. This wasn't easy, but it needed saying in front of Jim. He couldn't let a Vulcan outdo him in emotional honesty.
"Truth is, Jim, the moment Spock told us that he'd attempt beaming back to the ship, I knew that was the only option available to me as well. And for exactly the same reasons he has just given. My life is here. Serving on the Enterprise, under your command. My duty is to you as our Captain, to the crew of this ship, to Starfleet. Hell, what would you have done without me, without my constant good advice?", Bones managed a brief smile before turning solemn again, "My friendship to you means the world to me, Jim. I didn't want to miss out on it, just like Spock wasn't prepared to miss out on it either."
Jim nodded. He understood. All too well.
"And, believe it or not, because I still struggle to comprehend it myself with the best will in the world - choosing a life on that unknown planet without our pointed eared friend, for some, bizarre reason, would never have been appealing to me."
"Naturally, Doctor", Spock shot back, dead-pan as ever. Jim broke into a wide smile at this. Thank God, they hadn't changed that much after all!
Rather than indulging the Vulcan like he usually would at this point, Bones felt there was one final thing to say before everything could go back to normal.
"For a friend he truly is, Jim. I know that now", the doctor added quietly, but sincerely.
Spock responded with a slow, confirming nod, his eyes conveying without hesitation, that he felt the same towards the doctor.
Kirk reached out across the desk, gently touching an arm of each of his friends, his eyes shining with affection. But before Jim could be overwhelmed by all the emotions that flooded his heart in that moment – joy, relief and gratefulness – he quickly poured Bones, and Spock, another glass of Saurian brandy.
"Gentlemen, If this doesn't call for another toast, I don't know what does! To friendship!"
"To friendship", Bones echoed contently while he lifted his glass.
Spock hesitated for a moment before he followed suit. He was about to break with his custom to not drink alcohol for the second time in the space of only a few hours. But it was a worthy occasion to do so.
"The author eludes me at this moment, but I believe he was of Terran origin, who said:
A fool, who doesn't nourish friendships, for its fruits are eternal."
Clink – the sound of glass on glass as three brandy chalices meet.
The End