Chapter 12/20 - "Easy Does It" (Part 4 in the Under the Sun series) They had spoken very little since they left Nogura’s office. To speculate was useless. To consider the obvious was unacceptable. However, once aboard the shuttle and in their quarters, Jim could take time to get his thoughts together. He looked toward Spock, his back to Jim. The shoulders were squared and rigid. The shield between them was impenetrable. Alone, he felt so very alone. He walked to Spock and placed his hands on his shoulders. The fabric moved against the steeled skin underneath. “Spock, I know how this is affecting you, it’s Bones, and your father. It’s affecting both of us, but you haven’t lowered your shields since this began. Spock, it’s only you and me here. We’re never going to handle this alone.” Spock remained facing away from his partner, unyielding. “I think it unwise to drop my shields at this time.” “Okay, Spock, I understand that you need time to regain your perspective. But,” he turned the man around and stared into the dark, unreadable eyes, “I’m here with you.” They looked at each other, but there was no flicker of emotion from Spock. Jim dropped his hands and returned to his travel bag. He pulled out only the essential items and shoved the bag into the cabinet with more force than necessary. “Have you thought about contacting Amanda?” “I do not have any definitive information to give her. It would not be logical to contact her without first ascertaining the degree of the situation.” “Goddammit, Spock! She is your mother and your father is missing, maybe worse. We’ll be out of range to talk to her before long. You felt it when the bond with Bones was silenced and he doesn’t have as strong a bond with you as I do. And it’s certainly not as strong as the one between your parents. You need to call her. And if you don’t, I will!” Spock looked at Jim. Had he not been using all of his control to prevent being overtaken by emotion, he would have fallen into the flashing hazel eyes. He nodded his acceptance of Jim’s insistence that he contact his mother. Jim left their quarters and went to a room on the forward deck that doubled as a dayroom and a conference room. He kept checking the messages for any further information, but nothing new was forthcoming. Jim settled at the comm unit and in a short while Spock joined him. He settled into a chair, hands steepled, peering at his companion. Jim could feel the coldness of having their link closed. Although it wasn’t unusual for he and Spock to keep their shields raised, even off duty, this time he felt the solitude much more than usual. Every subspace message that came across the board, Jim’s head jerked to read. However there were just the preliminary reports that had been released and nothing that they did not already know. “Did you get in touch with Amanda?” “Yes.” That was all of the answer he was capable of giving at this time. Late in the evening Spock approached Jim. The Admiral had been sitting in the same chair and staring at the constant flow of subspace messages for hours, his eyes never leaving the screen. “Jim, you need rest. If anything regarding the situation comes through, the communications officer will contact us.” Jim looked at Spock. He let the first hint of a smile play across his lips, however it never quite reached his eyes. Left to himself, he would have sat before the screen until they reached the rendezvous point. But before his partner could point out the illogic of such an act, he gave in. In their cabin they undressed and got into bed. Neither was able to rest. They lay in the same bed, but there was no contact between them. Jim rolled on his side, looking at Spock. He was lying on his back, his hands folded across his chest, staring at the ceiling. “Spock,” Jim whispered into the darkness. “This is hard enough to handle, but to have you lock me out too, makes it almost unbearable. I need you.” Spock turned to Jim, “Jim, it is not my wish to lock you out. Never you. I am concerned that if I open up to you it will be difficult to regain control.” “What do you mean? I thought we were bondmates. Are you telling me that you’re only willing to share the good times with me?” Jim sat up and looked toward Spock. “Spock, I need you to open up to me. I need to talk to you about this. I can’t if I feel that you’ve closed me out.” Spock lifted a hand and stroked down the face of his mate. This man had been willing to give up everything for him. On more than one occasion, Jim had been willing to offer his life to save him. He reached for Jim and pulled him down. Their lips met as the shields dropped. Jim was met with the terrible rush of loneliness and fear that one of them, one that is a part of the whole, is no longer with them. As they fell into each other’s minds, the image of the one they love seared their hearts. Jim saw the emptiness, the vacuum, in them both through the bond. A hole had formed in them where the link to the dark, emotional colors of that volatile mind belonged. They clung to each other. Each trying to find their center of strength as their lips consumed each other, the tears on their faces blending together as each expressed their fears, their hopes, their desire to be whole again. //When did this bond with him become so strong? // //I had just recently become aware its strength.// //Sarek said that it might strengthen beyond the light bonding of a sko’tan. // //Yes, it had become stronger. It is not as strong as the bond we share, but with time, it may have become...// //We shared this bond in the past, and we will again, Spock. I know we will. // Spock pulled away from his bondmate. “Jim, you do not believe him dead. Where does this belief come from?” “From Bones.” “Are you feeling his presence?” “No, nothing like that. I’m working on pure intuition. He’s one of the strongest-willed people I’ve ever known. I have never known of anything to get the best of Bones McCoy without him giving it a hell of a fight. I find it hard to believe one phaser blast, or whatever the hell we are dealing with, would do him in.” “Jim, I share your desire that he is found alive, however it is illogical to deny the evidence.” “When have you known Bones to be logical?” After a moment Jim whispered, “Spock, I’ve been so concerned with Bones, I hadn’t considered the loss of Sarek.” “I am concerned with his welfare as well, however he is not dead.” “Did you learn this from Amanda?” “Yes, she is still aware of his presence through the bond. It has been weakened and she is aware that he is injured. My parent’s keep their shields in place at all times when they are separated, therefore she is unsure of the extent of his injuries. She knows only that he lives.” “He is a strong man. He’ll get through this.” “More intuition?” “Just hope, Spock. Just my deepest hope that this will turn out all right.” “And mine, my t’hy’la.” They wrapped their arms around each other and listened in the dark for the comm to signal them. A signal that never came. Captain Tori Ashland was waiting for them when they were beamed onto the Alexander’s transporter pad. “Admiral Kirk, Commander Spock, welcome aboard.” “Captain Ashland, it’s good to see you again. It’s been several years since we last saw each other I believe.” “Yes, Admiral. You had just returned from your rendezvous with the V’ger entity. Commander Spock. I have looked forward to meeting you for sometime.” Spock nodded formally to the woman. “Thank you, Captain.” Her familiarity with Jim and her attractiveness was not lost on the Vulcan. “Tori, has anything further come from the planet?” “Jim, I’m afraid the news from the sector is not good. The Tovians have surrounded the planet with a battery of cruisers, all armed for combat. The Federation ships have had to back off. We were outgunned. They possess some type of percussion weapon that cuts right through our shields. We cannot access the planet and there are still several teams stranded down there. Communications have been disrupted and we haven’t been able to contact the ground teams for the last forty-three hours. “The Yorktown arrived last night and the Constitution was in orbit, but she had taken a beating and has had to back off. Along with the Ling Tao and the Lexington, when we arrive, there will be a total of five ships. The Constitution was able to lock a tractor beam onto the Bakswani freighter carrying the cryogenium shipment as she backed out. The rescue of the freighter is the only bit of luck we’ve had. The problem, as I stated, is this weapon that they have. Jim, the Federation has never run across anything like this.” “Tori, what have you found out about the Tovian? I was unaware that they possessed this type of organization.” “As far as all reports go, they have never before used this type of attack plan. Until this episode, their modus operandi has been to attack in small savage groups, grab, and run.” “Then something tells me that someone else is behind this. Patterns do not change that quickly. Now all we have to figure out is who. Spock, any ideas?” “A theory Admiral. Captain, is there a computer that I may access?” “Certainly. There’s a workstation set up in Conference Room D on Level Three. The ship’s library is tied into that computer. You are certainly welcome to use it as your own while you’re onboard.” “Thank you, Captain. If you will excuse me, I will go there now.” “Certainly, Spock. I will join you there shortly.” Spock nodded to each and stated “Admiral, Captain.” He turned and walked to the lift. Jim watched him walk away and he felt a stab in his chest. Their mental shields were back in place, as they always were when they were on duty, but now, there seemed to be an aura of aloneness that surrounded his bondmate. Chapter 13/20 “Jim,” Tori said, breaking his concentration regarding Spock, “I’m on my way to the bridge and you’re welcome to join me there if you wish. Any new reports will be routed through the comm station.” “Thank you, Tori, I would be grateful. We’re concerned about the Starfleet personnel stranded on the planet, many of whom may be injured, and of course, the welfare of Dr. Leonard McCoy and Ambassador Sarek. Spock has reason to believe that Ambassador Sarek is still alive. We were hoping that word had come through regarding their location and condition.” They reached the lift doors. Tori keyed the override and in moments, the doors opened. She voiced the command, “Bridge.” Jim had opened his mouth to place the command, but realized that this was no longer his duty. This was not his ship; he no longer held that position. The memory flooded him of Bones’ words, spoken the last afternoon they were together. ‘Dammit, Jim! I would much rather go with you at the helm. This is the very reason that I think you should get your command back!’ If he had been at the helm of one of the ships, would they be here now? Would Bones be...what... dead? No, he wasn’t dead, he couldn’t be. “I was sorry to hear that they were caught in the attack. Our CMO, Dr. Arianias Rand worked with McCoy for several weeks on the planet. She was very impressed by his capabilities. Dr. McCoy served with you for many years, didn’t he?” Jim wasn’t sure if Tori didn’t want to refer to anything more, or if she didn’t know about the relationship between the three of them. If she didn’t know, she had to be one of the few in the galaxy. “Yes, served together...and more.” Tori nodded. “I met them when we were in orbit around the planet. ” “Tori, I didn’t know that you had met Sarek and McCoy. I knew the Alexander was patrolling the area, but I didn’t know your CMO worked on the planet. Can I talk to her?” “Sure, Jim. She’s in sickbay.” She turned to the control panel on the lift, “Belay bridge order...Sickbay.” The lift paused and made the directional change to Deck Two. “Dr. Arianias Rand, allow me to introduce you to Admiral James Kirk.” “Dr. Rand, you may not remember, but we met at the reception for Janice’s promotion.” “Of course, Admiral. I didn’t know if you would remember me. It was such a brief introduction.” “Of course I do. I understand that you worked on Bakswana-7. I would like to speak with you in regards to the time you spent there.” “Certainly, please come into my office.” “Jim,” Tori said as Arianias turned to walk toward the door, “I am going back to the bridge. If I hear anything, I will page you.” Jim took her hand. “Thank you, Tori.” She smiled at the man she had admired for many years, nodded, and left sickbay. Jim followed Arianias into her office. “Admiral, first I want to express my regret in regard to Ambassador Sarek and Dr. McCoy. I understand that you were close to both.” “Are close.” “Sir?” “We are close to them both. And, we’re hoping for the best.” “Of course, I understand.” “Can you tell me what was going on down there?” Arianias was taken back. Was he speaking of the condition of the planet, or of the research on the disease, or was he speaking of the incident she had witnessed between McCoy and Sarek in the lab late one evening? “In regard to what, Admiral?” “To what? To what extent they were involved. What were they doing?” “Sir, excuse me, but it’s not my place to comment on their involvement. As far as I know, these men are the soul of discretion and what went on between them is none of my concern. Dr. McCoy is an excellent physician and leader, beyond that...” “Dr. Rand, what are you talking about? I want to know how involved they were with the local political situation. Were they involved in anything that would specifically make them targets for terrorists?” He stood up and looked at her, “Commander, what are you talking about?” “Err...nothing, Admiral, nothing.” Arianias sat back in her chair. Janice had talked to her about this man and his incessant capability to turn even the most confident human to mush. Well, she couldn’t exactly blame him, she had walked into this herself! ‘SHIT!’ Now he was looking at her as if he could see right through her skull and into her brain. And, she could do nothing but sit there and babble. Well, it was time to regain control. “Admiral, as far as I know, there was nothing in their research that would directly involve them in the raids on the planet. However, they had linked the disease to an organism introduced by the Tovian raiders. They had cultured two Tovian prisoners we were holding onboard and discovered the source of the disease. It had been spread sexually to the Bakswani. I assume that did not make the Tovians particularly pleased with them. And, let’s face it, the Bakswani are not pleased with anyone. Ambassador Sarek worked for days on end just to get samples of the food and water supplies.” “Where are these prisoners being held now?” “They were tuned over to Federation representatives at the Deltan station. Captain Ashland could tell you where they were sent from there.” The comm unit beeped and Arianias reached over and pressed ‘receive’. It was Spock calling Jim from the conference room. “Admiral, I have discovered some interesting facts. Can you come to the conference room?” “Sure, Spock. I’ll be there momentarily.” He turned back to the doctor, “Will you accompany me to the conference room? I have a lot of questions.” “Certainly, Admiral. I’ll let Captain Ashland know we we’re headed.” She turned back to the comm unit to contact the captain, as Jim walked out of the room and waited in the corridor. Whatever Bones and Sarek had stumbled into was dangerous. The link to the disease process was what got them into this mess. Jim felt it in his bones. ‘Bones,’ he thought wistfully. And what did Rand mean, ‘Whatever went on between them was none of her concern’? Arianias joined him in the corridor and they proceeded to level three. Upon their arrival in the conference room, Spock stood up from the workstation. “Admiral, I have been reviewing all of the logs since Bakswana-7 was admitted into the Federation, those that were recorded since this rescue mission began, and the logs that were jettisoned shortly after this last attack began. There are some inconsistencies within the information recorded prior to the arrival of the rescue teams, and that information that has been recorded since.” “In what way?” “Since the team’s arrival, there have been ongoing reports of frequent earthquakes in the northeast quadrant. This is also the quadrant where the majority of the mining operations are located. However, the last report included a communiqué Ambassador Sarek had sent to the command center immediately before the attack. He reported that the damage was evidently from some type of explosive device rather than typical earthquake destruction. He requested that additional security personnel be sent to the village. “Another interesting fact is that the production of cryogenium prior to the endangerment from Bakswana-6 was reported at an average of 16,000KU’s per trip. Six Standard months was the typical amount of time between runs. The quantity that the Bakswani freighter was carrying when it was rescued was reported at 48,000KU’s. There had only been a collection time of five-point-three Standard months.” Jim looked at Spock in disbelief. “They produced over three times as much in the same amount of time? That’s impossible. Even with extra effort, the difficulty of securing the cryogenium would limit the capabilities to possibly half again as much for the same time period.” “With maximum effort, using the same mining techniques, there would be approximately point four-two-six additional KU's of mineral produced.” “Point-four...” “Two-six.” “So where did the rest of it come from?” “It is my belief that there has been a co-agreement formed between the Tovian’s and the Bakswani. The alliance began prior to any indications of trouble with Bakswani-6 and prior to the request of assistance from the Federation. It was in-place when the first of the so-called earthquakes began. I believe that it was then that they began mining with a type of sound wave that carved great quantities of the mineral from the rock. A sound wave that could also be used as a defense system.” “The same type of defense system that is now being used to keep the Federation ships at bay?” “It would seem to follow the same pattern.” “But why would they destroy one of their own villages?" “The Bakswani council objected strongly to the presence of the Federation medical teams that were sent to the various quadrants. The team in the northeast quadrant had made a routine report that one of the patients they had inoculated became quite ill. It was a young, pregnant female and she possibly had a reaction to the vaccination and delivered a stillborn child. The team had prepared the fetus for transport back to the command center for an autopsy to determine if the vaccination had indeed interfered with the pregnancy.” Jim rubbed his forehead, “Spock, what would this have to do with the village being destroyed?” “There were a number of pregnant females noted in McCoy’s notes. They were in various stages of pregnancy, however none more than six months gestation.” “Admiral,” Arianias spoke up, “he's right. While treating those that were brought into the surgical unit, we noticed a large number of pregnant females. Some were no more than about fourteen years old. Others were as old as twenty-five, maybe twenty-seven years old. All were at a gestation of between six months and a few days. The normal gestation period for the Bakswani is twelve Standard months. We assumed that there was a reproductive cycle that the Bakswani were going through. There seemed to be very few inhabitants under the age of twelve or so.” “Admiral, that would seem logical. Recent studies have discovered evidence that long exposure to cryogenium may cause sterilization in males. And the first reports of cryogenium were discovered within the stone used for building purposes. Once that discovery was made, mining operations began in earnest and trading rights for the mineral became escalated, with the Federation eventually winning those rights.” “So, how come there are so many pregnant females if the males are sterile?” “Dr. McCoy proved that the disease process was sexually transmitted from the Tovians. If that is true, then they may have been the ones who impregnated the females.” Jim was trying to put this together. Could it possibly be that the reason that two medical teams were attacked was over this fetus? All killed because this fetus would prove that the Tovians had been on the planet prior to, and during, the Federation rescue efforts? Jim turned to the doctor. “Arianias, from your knowledge of the Tovian and Bakswani, could there be a successful cross breeding of the two?” “Unknown, Admiral. We were not specifically concentrating on the pregnancies. However, both species are humanoid and have very similar physiological make-ups. The main difference is in the size. The Tovian is considerably larger than the Bakswani. I am certain that the similarities are so close that it would be difficult, if not impossible, to be able to distinguish a Tovian from a Bakswani offspring in utero. I have not discovered any data that would preclude the success of a Bakswani female being able to conceive and deliver the offspring of a Tovian male. And there were rumors of rape victims during the various sieges.” “I am not talking about rape.” Jim shook his head thoughtfully. “At least, not in the traditional sense. I read the report that Bones filled prior to going into the village. It stated that Sarek had only been allowed access after pointing out that the only option was to lose two generations. Is it possible that they were exchanging the cryogenium for the impregnation of their females due to the fact that their males, those at the age most likely to reproduce, were rendered sterile by the mineral?” “Jim,” Spock’s voice had become smooth and sure. “They were a dying race. Mating with the Tovian insured their future. Only when the ecological changes came about, caused by the breakup of the satellite around Bakswani-6, and it seemed that their planet was going to be destroyed, did they contact the Federation for assistance.” “Okay, the first step is getting on that planet. About this weapon, is there any way to counteract it?” “A possibility, Admiral. I believe that we can set up an device that will capture the waves and turn them back on the sender." “Like a mirror effect?” “Exactly. With the presence of a full compliment of starships, we should be able to form a barrier wide enough to compensate for the width of the band. If each can deploy a tirantium sail forward and link the shields of each ship, then, in theory, we should be able to counter the...” Spock gasped, went pale and grabbed the edge of the table. Jim rushed forward as the Vulcan fell into the chair. Arianias punched the comm and ordered a triage team to the conference room. She then rushed to the Vulcan’s side. “Spock!” Jim yelled. Spock grabbed Jim’s hand, almost crushing the fingers in his grip. He looked up at Jim. “He is alive, Jim. He is alive.” Chapter 14/20 Blinding pain...Searing through every nerve of his being...Cold...OH GOD!...It hurt to move...Trying to open eyes that would not open... “Leonard,” the voice came to him. The sound of the voice hurt his ears. It was just a whisper but he knew the voice. “Spock!” he tried to scream, but only his lips moved slightly. No sounds came from him, other than a cough that racked his body. But he knew. Spock was here, Spock was with him. He fought to find consciousness. The comfort of the darkness called him. He closed his eyes to let the darkness claim him. “Spock,” he whispered as he drifted back into unconsciousness. “Leonard,” the voice called to him, again. Must find him. Must find the voice. Safety is in the voice. Always safe when the voice is with him. Forcing his eyes to open, he could not tell if they were open or shut. Darkness either way. He began to move his arms...pain...with each breath...pain. Slowly the conscious replaced the unconscious. Dark shapes, cold rock beneath him. He tried to come to his knees but fell back against the hard surface. His head fell against a sharp object. He knew his head was bleeding; it was warm fluid running down his face in contrast to the cold that surrounded him. Suddenly an arm was around him. Turning him into the bend of an elbow. A rag was pressed to the gash on his head and he recoiled from the touch. So cold. And the darkness reclaimed him. He felt the rag being gently brushed across his skin. It was the pon farr, the blood fever, and he saw the face of Sarek. Attending to them, cleaning them. Giving them drink. No…NO…it’s all wrong! Vulcan is hot and bright. This is dark and cold. But it is the face of Sarek, as he had done once before, cleaning him, bringing moisture to his lips. His hand moved to his neck and found the medallion was gone. That hurt almost as much as the pain in his head. “Sarek,” he whispered. “I thought this was...” He could not continue. “Save your strength, Leonard. I will explain all that I know. We were captured during the attack on the village. We are in a mining shaft. I am uncertain of the time we have been here due to the fact that I was incoherent for a while. However, I feel safe in saying it has been several days, possibly as long as three. The walls are very high and slick. Escape is apparently impossible. There is water that is trickling from the rock to keep us from becoming dehydrated, however there is no other sustenance.” Leonard managed to bring a forearm up and gingerly laid it across his eyes. “Don’t sugarcoat it, you’re saying we’re screwed.” “In this instance, I will agree with that assessment.” Bones removed his arm from his eyes and realized he was beginning to be able to see in the dim light. Sarek was nude and so, he realized, was he. “Clothes?” he mumbled. “It seems that our captors have made every effort to assure us no comfort. When I awoke, I discovered that we had been disrobed and what is left of our clothing is lying about in tattered rags.” Leonard began to rise to a seated position. A wave of nausea overtook him and he felt his stomach retch. He placed his arms out beside him and hung his head between them as he began to gag. An arm moved around his waist and a hand found his head, supporting his neck as he went through the motions of vomiting. Nothing was in his stomach, therefore nothing was expelled. The arm pulled him to lie against a smooth chest. They each shivered from the cold. Leonard’s arms wrapped around Sarek’s form and they sat in the dim light, one holding the other to soothe, the other clutching to keep the darkness from overtaking him. Untold time passed. It could have been minutes, it could have been hours. Leonard was unsure, but he thought he had slept. He moved and started to ask Sarek how long it had been, but he looked around them. What did it matter? Each second that ticked off the clock was another second that they were trapped here. All right, there had to be some way to survive this. He tried turning to Sarek. They were each still seated together with their arms around each other. Leonard noticed that Sarek’s back was against the rock wall and knew the hard, cold rock was certainly not what the man needed. “Sarek, let’s get what’s left of our clothing and see if we can set up some pallet. There seems to be a small ledge over there that we could put them on.” “Yes, I had noticed it earlier.” McCoy tried to rise but found it most difficult. Finally getting to his feet, with Sarek’s assistance, he began first to take inventory of the injuries. He was certain that he had at least three broken ribs, maybe more. There was a very tender place on the side of his head that he was sure was a skull fracture, and a large gash at the hairline over his left eye. It was possible that his elbow had been dislocated, but it seemed to be back in place now. At any rate, his right arm was a mess. There were numerous cuts and abrasions all over his body. They had evidently been thrown down the shaft. He looked at Sarek. It almost broke his heart to look at the distinguished man that he had come to know so well. Even in the dim light, he could see Sarek had multiple visible cuts and one eye was almost closed shut from the swelling. He was standing beside Leonard with one hand supporting him and one leg held off of the ground. “Sarek, sit down. Let me have a look at that leg.” “There is no need, Doctor. There is nothing that you can do about it.” “You let me be the judge of that. Here, sit on the ledge.” He helped Sarek to the ledge and turned him so he could sit down. He knelt before him and ran his hands up the swollen limb. There was a displaced fracture and a large gash on the leg. In this light, and with his hands being so cold, he was unsure if the bone had ripped an opening in the leg, or if the impact where the gash was located was what caused the fracture. Either way, the circulation to the limb was being compromised. “Sarek, I need to pop the bone back into place. Problem is, I don’t know if I have the strength to pull on it. My right arm is nearly useless.” “Do not concern yourself with this. It is the least of our worries at this time.” “Without treatment, you’re gonna lose this leg. I’ve gotta restore full circulation, and soon.” He began to scour the area for anything he could use as a wedge and a weight. He found two large stones, one had a rounder shape than the other. He struggled to move the rocks close to the ledge. He retrieved the remnants of their clothes. Sarek was right, they had torn the cloth to shreds. However, he did find one long strip of cloth from the leg of one jumpsuit. Fumbling in the darkness, his hands found a slick fabric that he recognized as a part of the rain suit. He gathered all that he could find and returned to Sarek. He laid the cloth on the ledge and took the long strip of fabric and tied one end of it around one of the rocks. He struggled, but lifted both rocks to the ledge. With the round rock, he lifted Sarek’s knee and placed the rock underneath it. He secured the other end to Sarek’s ankle. “Sarek, this is going to hurt like hell, but I don’t have the strength to reset the bone. This will pull the bone back into place and hopefully restore full circulation. I want you to wrap your arms around me and resist when the stone falls.” Sarek nodded his understanding and wrapped his arms around Leonard. McCoy pushed the stone off of the ledge and held on to Sarek. The snap was immediate and Leonard knew the pain was excruciating. However, amazingly, there was no movement or outcry from his companion. He moved to remove the cloth that was tied around the ankle. He felt the leg and could no longer feel the displacement of the bone. He felt the calf and ankle and although still swollen, there seemed to be some warmth returning to the tissues. “It seems to have cleared the disruption of blood flow. Hell, if I could see, or if you were human, I would tell you it’s pinking up nicely.” “It does seem to have released a great deal of pressure in that area. I find your ability to improvise is both fascinating as well as commendable.” “Well, my first choice would be a medical kit and bone regenerator, but I don’t believe they bothered to throw any of those items in here with us.” He spread the rags on the ledge and what was left of the rain suits, he laid over the rest. It would at least keep them off of the cold rock. “Sarek, lay down and prop your leg up on this rock to elevate it. I know to move the leg is painful, but I need you to keep wiggling your toes. The more circulation we can keep to that leg, the better chance we have of keeping you from throwing a clot.” Sarek complied and lay down. McCoy wrapped some of the excess material around him to try to keep him as warm as possible. Then he turned his attention to the predicament that they found themselves in. It was obvious that help was not coming from the surface. “No tellin’ how far we are from anyone friendly,” he mumbled. He began to examine the walls. It was as if they had been cut with some tool that left them absolutely smooth. He felt for any handholds, but there were none. “Hell, even Jim couldn’t climb outta this!” It looked as if the opening above was about thirty to forty feet up. He thought about the material and wondered if there was anything that could be tied together to form a rope. But the material was too lightweight to support them and, even if it did, there was nothing to attach it to. There seemed to be nothing else at their disposal. ‘Shit! We’re gonna die down here!’ His head was pounding and queasiness threatened him once more. He knew he had a severe concussion and was concerned about going into shock. He needed to get warm, but that didn’t seem to be an option at the moment. He attempted to shake his head to relieve the nausea, but that hurt too much. He bent his knees and half fell, half sat on the stone floor. “Leonard, come lay here. It is more comfortable than the bare stone.” He nodded his head and used the ledge of the rock platform to pull himself up. Sarek rolled to his side and made room for McCoy on the narrow overhang. The Vulcan extended his arm and Leonard lay down, using the arm as a pillow. He spooned himself to McCoy while still managing to keep his ankle elevated on the rock. Then he placed his arm around Leonard’s waist and pulled him close. Leonard enfolded the arm about him with his own. The warmth felt good. Even in this chilled place, the two naked bodies pressed together and gave each some measure of relief. They lay there like that for some time. Sarek in a light healing trance, and McCoy trying to calculate any way out of their cage. Periods of unconsciousness claimed him. They moved only when it was necessary to relieve themselves or drink from the trickle of water. Periods of clarity began to grow more frequent and brief respites of true sleep came to Leonard. But he would suddenly feel the presence of his lovers and awaken, only to find himself still in the same circumstance. Laying there in the dimness, he began to remember the times in the apartment. The feel of the bodies pressed against him. Most of all, he remembered the warm bed that he had taken for granted. Sarek moved against him and he could feel the semi-flaccid organ against his buttocks. He remembered how this man felt with his warm body laying on top of him, his mouth consuming his cock, the feel of him when he slipped inside. He kept still, hoping not to be discovered having erotic visions of past encounters. He felt the arm draped around him began to move. A hand began to softly caress his abdomen, and lower. When the hand contacted his patch of pubic hair, the intent was no longer doubted. The hand found his cock and began to lightly stroke it. Leonard moved his hips slightly to center the hardened organ to him. He reached behind him, found the hard shaft and began to stroke it. Slick fluid began to form and he moistened his fingers with it and spread his cheeks and rubbed the pre-ejaculate to his opening. He centered Sarek’s cockhead to the puckered opening and pushed his hips against the hard penis until he felt it begin to invade him. There had been no preparation for this invasion, but Sarek pressed very slowly into the orifice, allowing for no pain to harm this man. He continued the slow strokes up and down Leonard’s engorged organ. Very slowly the rocking motion against him increased, as he pressed a little deeper with each one. He was fully encased and they lay there, slowly rocking against each other, the heat building between them. Leonard felt his scrotum begin to contract, ready for orgasm. He pushed his hips against the ones spooned against him with more determination. The strokes on his cock increased and he felt the glow from deep within him. He could feel the pressure of the body pushing against him and the warm fluid began to fill him. He brought his hand to the one surrounding his cock and gripped it and pushed into it, releasing his semen in long shuttering waves. They did not move. They stayed where they were, enjoying the heat that flushed through their bodies and the brief respite from pain. The hand released his organ and went back to his waist and pulled him close. Sleep claimed them. During the next two days they managed to rise only occasionally to drink from the streams of moisture, carrying water in their hands as best they could to keep the other hydrated. McCoy, trying to keep their minds alert, encouraged conversation by relating memories of the many missions that he had been involved with in both the first five years and these last years when they were called upon to intervene in the most extreme cases. He recounted to Sarek long forgotten tales and all of the attributes of the southern region of Georgia, and even explained various medical procedures to him. Sarek relayed much of the folklore and history associated with the Vulcan culture. However, as hour after hour dragged by, it became too much of an effort to either talk or move, and the mind’s darkness became a relief. Chapter 15/20 “Spock, do you still feel the bond?” Over the last forty-two hours, Jim had seen to the deployment of the tirantium sails. Captain Ashland was bringing all ships in close enough to link the shields. All they could do now was wait. They would go to the bridge when the defensive maneuver began, but for now they were back in the conference room, alone. “It is sporadic, but it exists. It seems to become greatest in times of strong emotions. I have felt extreme confusion and pain. And, Jim, I have felt fulfillment.” Jim looked at Spock, “Fulfillment? As in sexual fulfillment?” “Yes.” “Spock, when I was first speaking to Arianias Rand regarding the situation on the planet, she evidently believed that there was an…involvement between Bones and Sarek.” He watched Spock’s face. There was no reaction, and the shields between them were firmly in place so Spock could concentrate on any impressions he received from McCoy. Jim continued, “Do you think there is a possibility of a relationship between them?” “I am certain of it. The evening before their disappearance, while I was still on the Enterprise, I became aware that Leonard’s bond to us had fully developed. He was making love to Sarek.” “Does that bother you?” Spock sat with his elbows resting on the arms of the chair and his fingers steepled in front of his face. He had been watching the screen, but his eyes shifted to his bondmate. “That he has found comfort with someone? No, it is not an issue with our relationship. That it was with my father? It is unusual but understandable. They have been together for these months. It would be logical that they have developed a deep admiration for one another.” “A deep admiration...” Jim repeated softly. He hadn’t considered that if something had happened between them, that it could be anything other than an interlude in the aloneness that both would be feeling. “Spock, are you saying you feel something other than just sexual fulfillment?” “Jim, that which I have detected is born from deep emotions. I, of course, do not have any way of knowing my father’s response, but, yes, I feel that Leonard had developed a strong emotional attachment for Sarek.” “Spock,” Jim sat on the edge of the desk looking at his friend. “This probably isn’t the time, but...do you think that if we can rescue them...that Bones will...that their relationship has developed to the point...” “To the point where Leonard would choose to leave this relationship for another?” Jim nodded. “I do not know,” Spock answered. “That would have to be his decision. Although I do not desire for him to feel obligated to us, his absence would certainly be difficult.” Jim watched the softness spread across the face he loved so much. “I love you, you know,” he whispered to Spock. “As I do you. And it is my hope that we three can be together once more. However, Jim, I do fear that time is running out. Once again the bond has grown very weak.” The comm sounded and Tori paged the men. “Admiral, Commander, we are in place. If you would like to be on the bridge for this, you better come now.” They rose and ran quickly for the lift. Upon the opening of the lift doors onto the bridge, they felt the impact of the deployed sails hitting the first wave of the Tovians defensive weapon. Even with the sails absorbing the brunt of the wave, the percussion from the weapon rocked the compliment of ships. “Navigator, check position! Helmsman, keep the course steady! Check distance to the other ships. Make sure we do not stray into their trajectory. Science station, monitor the enemy ships!” Captain Tori Ashland was relaying orders to the crew and James Kirk, beyond everything else that was going on around them, felt a twinge of jealousy. Another blast hit the ships, causing Jim and Spock to grab the railing or risk being thrown to the floor. “Captain,” Jim automatically looked toward the science station, “It seems to be working. The weapon has turned back upon them. Several of their ships are buckling!” The science officer looked up from his position toward his commander, “They’re not shielded. All of their power is focused on the weapons.” Jim had to smile. The science officer was quite excited about the results of the defensive maneuver. He thought to himself, how very odd it would feel to have an emotional science officer. One more blast rocked the ship, but this time several flashes of bright light accompanied it. “Captain, six enemy ships destroyed! The others are making a run for the Neutral Zone.” “Helmsman, target and fire phasers!” “Aye, Captain!” The familiar burst of sound that radiated through the bridge was music to Jim’s ears. Soon, they would be on the planet. Spock was certain that was where they could be found, however, he was unable to pinpoint an exact location. Tori turned to him, “Admiral Kirk, Commander Spock, my congratulations on the success of the defensive strategy.” “Captain Ashland, how long before we can beam down to the surface?” “We will be in range in eight minutes, sir. However, we can not risk your safety until the security team has given the all clear.” Jim was taken by surprise. How many times had he told a visiting Admiral or dignitary the same thing? However, on this occasion, he was not going to be treated as an Admiral. “Captain, I intend to be in the first group that beams down.” “Admiral, that is unwise. You are not an expendable member of Starfleet. Your safety must be guaranteed at all costs, sir.” She turned her chair toward him and said so that only he could hear, “Jim, the brass at Starfleet would have my ass if anything happens to you.” “Tori, I am the brass.” “My point exactly, sir.” “Captain, may I accompany the security team?” Spock asked. “Commander Spock, it is certainly acceptable for you to accompany the landing party. If you wish, you may do so. They will be reporting to the transporter room momentarily.” She turned back to Jim, “Admiral, I can not forbid your going. I can only advise against it.” “Your recommendation will be duly noted. Where do we pick up our equipment?” Tori had to bite her lip to keep a smile from breaking the seriousness she was attempting to relay. Jim Kirk, still the maverick! Some people never change. “Report to the transporter room where you will be outfitted. I will meet you there shortly,” she said, shaking her head in exasperation. As they headed for the lift, Captain Ashland began to coordinate rescue efforts with the other ships. It was decided that the team from the Alexander would cover the village in the northeastern quadrant. This was the last known location of Ambassador Sarek and Dr. McCoy. Within minutes they began to materialize on the planet’s surface. The destruction that lay before them was unimaginable. Never had Jim seen such a total obliteration of an entire village. And, if their assumption was correct, the officials of this planet had allowed this. Phasers were drawn and the security team blanketed the area looking for any sign of attack forces. The all clear was given. The area was deserted. All that remained were the occasional remnants of what used to be either a medical team member or a villager. “Admiral,” Spock turned to Jim, “There are faint life signs from the building across the square.” Jim looked in the direction that Spock was aiming the tricorder. How he could tell what used to be buildings and what used to be open space was beyond him. It was nothing but debris in all directions. Captain Ashland directed members of the security team to join them. They picked their way across the wreckage and came to a shell of a stone building. Spock directed security to the area where the life signs were emanating. They all began to pull back rubble and located a protected area where three crewmen were still alive. They called for a medical team to beam down. Two males and a female were pulled from the rubble and the medical team began attending to them. The female was the least injured of the three. She had multiple fractures and abrasions and was dehydrated, but was soon coherent enough to speak. She was with the group that had come over with Dr. McCoy. The engineers were securing the wall to the structure, and she and the other medical personnel were attempting to locate the members of the original team. When the explosions began, they had sought refuge against the wall. Everything began to cave in around them. She was trapped in the rubble and saw a group of Bakswani, accompanied by what she assumed were Tovians, take the Ambassador and Dr. McCoy with them out of the south end of the village. She lost consciousness shortly after that and did not remember anything else. Spock, Jim, and several security members headed for the southern entrance to the village. Hours went by to no avail. No sign of the missing men had been found. They split up and searched the area thoroughly. They met back at the point from where they had started the search at the appointed time. All reported no signs of either the ambassador, the doctor, or even the inhabitants of the planet. One crewmember pulled an object from his waist pack. “I did find this object, although I don’t know if it holds any significance.” Jim looked toward the man and immediately recognized the gold medallion dangling from the broken chain. He grabbed the object from the palm of the crewman and shouted, “Spock! Come over here! This is McCoy’s!” He looked toward the surprised crewman and grabbed him by the shoulders. “Where did you find this?” “I found it at the entrance to a mining cavern. I looked inside and ran a tricorder scan, but there was no sign of life.” “Take us there!” “Yes, sir. It is over that hill.” The man started in the lead, but the two Starfleet officers were soon ahead of him. He pointed toward the entrance to the cavern and they dove inside. “Bones!” Jim began shouting. Bones was in here, somewhere, he could feel it. The cavern was a labyrinth of tunnels and they had to dodge the various shafts that would suddenly appear in the floor. “Bones! Can you hear me?” “Jim, down here,” Spock called from one of the tunnels. Jim rushed to him. “This is a piece of cloth from a Starfleet-issue rain suit.” They widened the beams of the lights on their powerpacks and spotted a large, dried puddle of dark fluid. Spock powered up the tricorder, however the minerals in the rock interfered with the readouts. He looked toward Jim and shook his head. “I can not be sure. The surroundings are masking the readings.” Jim had stood motionless since seeing the puddle. “I’m sure,” he said flatly. He had no doubt that this was their companion’s blood. He looked at Spock and then forward down the tunnel. There were other dark splotches along the path. They followed the path of the stains but this tunnel abruptly stopped. A solid wall of rock was in front of them. They turned to start back out, but noticed a break in the side of the rock, just large enough for a man to squeeze through. More of the substance was located within the crevice. They pushed through the crack to find a large, cavernous room on the other side. There was an opening in the rocks along the ceiling where water from the constant rains seeped through along with the dim light from outside. There, on the other side of the room, they saw another of the deep shafts. “Bones!” Jim shouted as he ran for the hole in the floor. |