| Chapter 8 - "Precious Pearls" Jim and Pavel alternated sitting in the command seat for the next full day, allowing each to have time to eat, rest, and at least experience the illusion of privacy for cleaning and changing. With the viewer aimed toward the back of the small shuttle, privacy was, in actuality, impossible. There was a small area warded off for the toilet, but it was not large enough to stand and dress in, therefore, the corridor had to suffice for any other activities. But as they neared the coordinates given for the rendezvous with the Klingon ship, they were both up front; Kirk at the controls, Chekov seated beside him in the second's position. "Commander, arm yourself with the portable transmitter and a phaser. Then find us a clearing on the planet where I can set the shuttle down," Kirk ordered. "But, sair, our instructions are to meet the Klingon vessel in the orbit over the planet." Chekov knew exactly what the demands were; landing on the planet was not a part of them. "There's going to be a slight change in protocol. Pavel, I'm putting you out on the surface. I needed you onboard to assure the security of the prisoner, but I don't know what we're going to face in the next few minutes. If you're down there, you'll stand a better chance of staying alive until help arrives." "No, sair!" Pavel protested adamantly. "I'm not leaving you to face them alone!" "Pav, if something happens...if something goes wrong, you will need to see that Sulu is contacted so they can rescue the hostages...and you." "Sair, if something goes wrong, they will know. Scotty installed a signal that will automatically send a message if we are attacked." "But I left orders..." Jim began. Pavel interrupted him, knowing there was no time for this argument. "According to Mr. Scott, it could be too late if they waited until we sent a message requesting help. If that signal goes off, they're coming. If I can remember Scotty's exact words, I believe they were, 'We'll be there, dragging half 'o the damned Federation with us if we have ta'!' That may not be exactly right, but very close." "Damned Scotsman!" Jim uttered. Glancing at the chrono and doing some quick calculations, he said, "He should still get the message in time. And that's an even better excuse for putting you out on the planet. In a matter of hours, they'll be arriving to rescue you. I've made arrangements that should save your career, but this way, I can be nearly assured of your safety, too." "And you expect me to leave, just like that, and wait this out hidden on the planet?" Chekov asked incredulously. He couldn't believe that Kirk would ask such a thing of him. "That's exactly what I expect, Commander. That's an order. Get your gear together," Jim demanded. "Admiral..." Pavel paused, then continued, his voice becoming calmer, but deeper. "Jim, I'm not leaving...not under my own steam, anyway. Now, if you want to shoot me before the Klingons get a chance to, then that's your prerogative." Using his commander's first name was no accident. It wasn't something he'd ever done in the line of duty, and only rarely in a private setting. However, remembering how Mr. Spock and Dr. McCoy used to slip into the familiar term with their captain-- usually when the situation was at its most dire, and Kirk's attention was needed the most--Pavel resorted to the same technique. It seemed to work. Kirk's mouth opened in protest, but then closed quickly, his eyes widening at hearing his first name being used. For a few seconds their eyes locked, the stubbornness that existed in both men was quite evident. If there was one thing that Pavel had learned from James Kirk, it was how to stand his ground. In this matter, he was not going to be persuaded otherwise. "Pav," Jim finally said, his tone much softer, "...you have so much to live for. There's your career, but even more importantly, there's Sulu..." It was an end run, and Pavel knew it. He had seen this man change tactics in the middle of an operation a hundred times before. It was what he was best at, but it wasn't going to work, not this time. "What about Sulu?" Pavel interrupted "He wouldn't let you put *him* out, either, and you know it! We both know what can happen. Both of us have...had...served with Starfleet too long to not understand the risks." "And you will again. It doesn't have to end here. Not yet. Any of it. I guarantee you that you'll be rescued. I've made myself clear, Mr. Chekov; arm yourself, because you're waiting on the planet." The soft approach hadn't worked, therefore, his commander's voice had reassumed its authoritative tone. "Jim, we both know there are no guarantees in life. But I can tell you how it's *not* going to end. It's *not* going to end with you facing the Klingons alone and me hiding out on the planet like a cowering child, and that's final. Pavel crossed his arms and shook his head, staring defiantly at Kirk. "However, we can let *you* out, and I'll handle the transfer," he added. Jim snapped his head toward Pavel. "NOT an option, mister!" Kirk stated emphatically. "For me either, sair!" Pavel shot back, equally as forceful. So much for it being second nature to follow his commander's orders, Pavel thought. It was the first time in his life, at least while not being influenced by some external power or force, that he had stood up to Jim Kirk. He even surprised himself. Jim blew an exasperated breath through his pursed lips. "Mr. Chekov, we need to discuss this new trend of yours for blatantly disregarding orders from a superior officer." "Aye, sair. When this is over, I will be glad to discuss that with you," Pavel stated, something that was nearly a smile passing quickly over his lips. "Commander, begin making preparations for rendezvous," Jim stated with a sigh, conceding the issue. Pavel nodded and made sure the disk that the Vulcans had furnished was properly queued up. It contained the initial contact message along with various voice-activated responses to the Klingon transmissions. "All set, Admiral," Chekov stated when the disk was ready to take over the communications. "Very good, Mr. Chekov. Now, all we can hope for is that they don't run a full bio scan on the shuttle. Well, we'll just have to deal with that if the time comes. I'm assuming all onboard weapons are charged and ready, just in case?" "Aye, sair. There's a phaser hidden under the console, and the ones in the locker are ready to go. But hand phasers will be no use if they turn their ship's weapons on us." "A chance we'll have to take, Commander," Jim sighed. "You may very well be sorry you didn't let me put you out." "Never, sair!" Pavel mumbled under his breath, as he set the proper controls in preparation for their rendezvous. The ways that this mission could fail were nearly endless, and Pavel knew it. Their very lives depended on getting away with this deception, but their chances of doing so were slim at best. Their adversaries would probably run a full bio scan on the shuttle, but even if they didn't there were other major obstacles to overcome. The Klingons could make verbal demands that the disk was unable to respond to. Or they could insist that the transfer be completed in person on the planet. Or they could decide to kill everyone anyway, leaving no witnesses, certainly a tactic that was one of the Klingons' favorites. But his decision was made, and there was no need to discuss these possibilities. Kirk, as well as anyone in the galaxy, knew the danger of dealing with this race of people. Pavel glanced at the man seated beside him and noticed Jim's eyes were sharply focused on him. "I'm where I belong, Admiral Kirk," Pavel replied without reservation. Kirk nodded and turned back toward the controls. As they drew closer to their destination, they heard from the back of the shuttle, "Human!" Their passenger had been completely silent since the discussion Pavel had with him the day before. Although both Kirk and Chekov had asked him on several occasions if he needed anything, they had either been ignored or met with nothing more than a shake of the Klingon's head. His calling to them now took both men by surprise. "I'll see to him, Admiral," Pavel said, as he pushed himself out of his seat. "Quickly, Mr. Chekov. We're only three minutes away from the rendezvous coordinates," Kirk added. "Aye, sair," Pavel nodded as he turned toward the back of the shuttle. "What is it?" Pavel asked impatiently, walking toward the back of the ship. "I have heard you discuss your problem. Can you adjust the frequency from which you transmit messages?" "Da, that can be done. Why?" Pavel furrowed his brow. The Klingon stood in the middle of his cell, his expression unreadable as he spoke. "If you transmit your code on the frequency of 3702 DzU, my people will receive your transmission, yet it will block their ability to get a reliable reading of your ship. The information they will receive back from the scans will be useless. They will not be able to tell what type of weapons you have, or if there are other vessels in the area. It is a technical problem that has been unable to be resolved." Pavel studied the man carefully. Either Maltz was telling them the truth, or he was leading them into a trap. There could be no in-between. "Why would you tell us this?" Pavel asked. "I have my reasons," he replied simply, obviously unwilling to offer any more explanation than that. It certainly didn't give Pavel a comforting feeling. It was disconcerting to have their very survival hinge on the word of a Klingon. Especially one who they were just minutes away from turning over to his own people for an uncertain, but seemingly unpleasant, destiny. "I will inform the Admiral. It will be his decision as to whether to use his information." Pavel nodded hesitantly before leaving the Klingon and walking to the front of the shuttle. "Admiral..." Pavel said when he slid once more into the seat next to Kirk. "I heard. It's a lie. He's setting us up for an ambush." Kirk seemed certain, yet Pavel wasn't as sure. "Yes, sair," Pavel answered. He almost left it at that. He had already gone head-to-head with the admiral over his staying onboard, something quite out of character for him. But as hard as it was for him to question Jim Kirk's judgment, he couldn't let this slide without at least exploring the possibility. "Sair, what if it's not a lie? What if he really does want to see an end to the hostage situation?" Jim shook his head decisively. "And protect us in the process? I can't believe that, Commander. Besides, you heard him, considering what he's facing once he's turned over to his people, he knows that death is better than the alternative." There was less than two minutes left before they would be in position and their contact with the Klingon ship was expected. Pavel was certain the ship was close, and cloaked, because the energy readings on the scope in front of him were fluctuating all over the place. He also knew that Kirk had a blind eye when it came to Klingons--with very good reason. With all they had been through recently, he knew he should as well. But there had been something in Maltz's demeanor, some degree of honesty when he had spoken of his disagreement with Kruge's tactics that made Pavel believe him. The problem was, it was nothing more than a gut reaction. Even so, he felt that he had to find some way of changing Kirk's mind. Not quite believing the words were actually coming from him, and questioning Jim Kirk's authority for the second time in a matter of minutes, Pavel asked, "What if you are wrong? What if he is telling us the truth about this?" Pavel could feel his heartbeat pounding in his temples as he watched Kirk's face, bathed first in shock, then anger, as he glared at him. "*Commander*, are *you* willing to risk everything on the word of this Klingon?" Jim asked, his voice stern, his eyes flashing. "Sair, I believe he's telling the truth. I believe it may be the only way we are going to get through this with the hostages, and us, still alive," Pavel replied, his eyes never wavering from Kirk's, but his pulse was steadily thrumming in his veins. "You know you're asking us to risk our lives, and the lives of those hostages, on the word of a Klingon, don't you?" Jim questioned, his eyes narrowing. "Aye, sair, I do. But I believe him," Pavel replied around the knot that had formed in his throat. Precious seconds ticked by as they stared at one another. Then Kirk reached over and keyed the frequency to 3702 DzU. At that moment, Pavel offered up a silent prayer hoping that his instincts were right. The coordinates for the rendezvous clicked onto the navigational scanner. "Mr. Chekov, start the disk," Kirk stated. It seemed there was none of the emotion that had tinged the admiral's voice just seconds before. It was as if one way or the other, Kirk had come to accept this decision, and their fate, whatever the outcome. Pavel initiated the disk. With any luck, it would first transmit the hailing message, and then would respond appropriately depending on key words received. They heard the announcement as it was sent. Just moments later, the alarms on the control panel began to sound. "Admiral, a Klingon Bird of Prey is decloaking at seventy-six point three kilometers off the starboard bow." Pavel attempted to keep the anxiety out of his voice as he relayed the information--he was not completely successful. Too, there was the sudden, stark realization that in all probability, they had only minutes left to live. Even though the ship appearing on the monitor was not unlike the one they had spent the last nine weeks working on, Pavel found the sight of the ship if front of them most intimidating. However, he summoned all his strength to mimic the composure of the man seated beside him. He watched as Jim calmly reached for the alarm button and disabled it. Pavel kept a close watch on the displays in front of him. A small flux on the shuttle's peri-neubolic scope appeared. "Sair, someone is attempting to scan us, but the scans are being reflected away from the hull of the ship. If the Klingons are getting any readings at all, they are only minimal," Pavel stated, finding the ability to begin breathing once more. He noticed that even Kirk seemed to release a sigh of relief. When the first Klingon contact blared over the speaker, it was hard to refrain from answering the message manually. In just a matter of seconds, the disk responded for them. For those moments, the two men sat still in their seats, hoping all would work as planned. "Vulcan ship. Are you ready to transport the prisoner?" sounded gruffly from the comm unit. The disk replied automatically, first in Vulcan, and then the universal translator translated the message into Standard. "We will give you the coordinates for the prisoner once we have spoken with those on the surface and have been assured that the hostages are alive and safe." "Surface!" The Klingon commander's voice sounded. "Let one of the prisoners speak!" came the stern sound of the Klingon from the larger ship. Pavel retrieved the phaser that he had secured under the control panel before their departure; it was set to kill. Jim and Pavel moved from their seats and toward the back of the shuttle. From the surface of the planet, they heard, "This is S'Jaranic, spokesman for the scientists stationed on the outpost of La'ishi." "What is your current situation?" came the auto response from their shuttle. Again, it seemed strange to have the disk speak for them, but Pavel realized that this, along with the information given to them by Maltz, was all that was keeping them alive at the moment. "We are being held by three soldiers with weapons. Physically, we are unharmed at this time." "What is the condition of our prisoner?" the Klingon voice commanded. Once more the disk replied for them. "He is unharmed, but it was necessary to sedated him due to his highly agitated state. You have our ship in your sights. Remove your guards from the surface of the planet. When we have been assured that has been done, we will transmit the coordinates." Moving to the cell area, Pavel released the force field as Jim opened the box McCoy had given him and pulled out the pre-filled syringe. "This is the sedative that I told you about. We do not wish to harm you. Will you present your arm willingly?" Pavel asked, holding the phaser on the prisoner. Maltz hesitated a moment, staring at the syringe in Kirk's hand, but he then stuck his hand and wrist out of one of the openings in the heavy, plex enclosure. Pavel watched as Maltz and Kirk's eyes met. Jim pressed the tip of the air-syringe against the Klingon's wrist and pumped the entire contents into the stout body. "Lay down on the bunk," Pavel directed, and the Klingon stumbled over and fell onto the bed. "Maltz," Pavel called. The Klingon rolled his head toward the sound of Chekov's voice. Pavel looked from Maltz to Jim and back again. "Thank you," he said. He wasn't sure if the Klingon heard him before falling into a deep, drug-induced sleep. Jim looked at Pavel, smiled and nodded his approval. "The guards have been removed! Now, the coordinates!" the Klingon's voice commanded over the comm unit. Jim stepped quickly to the front of the shuttle, took a reading, and keyed the correct coordinates for the man lying in the cell. He turned and watched as Pavel pressed himself against the opposite wall. In just seconds, Maltz disappeared into the distinctive glow of the Klingon transporter beam. Then, as quickly as it appeared, the Bird of Prey disappeared, presumably toward the Neutral Zone. But without the sensors of a larger ship, even that was unknown. The only thing Pavel could be certain of was that the variable energy readings he had seen earlier seemed to settle into a more normal pattern. It only meant that the enemy ship had moved off, not moved on. But, surprisingly, they were still in one piece, and as long as the Klingon ship was cloaked, they would stay that way. "Well, Mr. Chekov, shall we go down to the planet and check on the condition of those scientists?" "Aye, sair!" Pavel agreed as he slid into the co-pilot's seat. But as they made their descent, it was with some amount of sadness that the Russian remembered the man they had allowed to be taken. Twenty minutes later, they landed in the middle of the scientific complex. Even the stoic Vulcans couldn't hide their surprise when the humans emerged from the shuttle. Nor could they hide their gratitude at being saved. Once Pavel and Jim were confident that all was secure, a speedy evacuation of the outpost began. The shuttle that would ferry the scientists was packed first, leaving room for the passengers. Then the empty cell onboard the Aluk'cet, along with most every other available area in the smaller of the two shuttles, was used to stack crates of data disks and other equipment considered too sensitive to risk falling into enemy hands. Anything that was not informative, or considered technologically advanced, was abandoned. The packing took no more than an hour. After their taste of Klingon hospitality, the scientists were more than willing to abandon the research site and return to Vulcan. One male asked if a larger Federation ship was being detached to escort them home, and seemed uncharacteristically distressed--for a typical Vulcan--to find it would just be the two shuttles making the journey. Kirk's assurance that he and Chekov would remain in close proximity seemed to do little to allay the scientist's concerns. However, a raised eyebrow in his direction from S'Jaranic halted the man's protest. The plan had been to send a communication from La'ishi back to Vulcan, however, that was precluded by the urgency to escape in case the Klingons decided to return. Also, while still so close to the Neutral Zone, they were quite sure that the Klingons could still be intercepting messages. Knowing that if they transmitted a message from their shuttle there was a possibility of curious onlookers showing up, Kirk devised a plan. Once the scientists were well within Federation territory, they were to send a 'flash message' to the Vulcan High Council. Jim had no doubt that such a message would draw the attention of all Starfleet ships that were in a detection mode. Kirk told S'Jaranic exactly what to say, instructing the leader of the team to give no other information. S'Jaranic agreed. With that, Kirk and Chekov boarded their tightly packed shuttle and lifted off for the trip back to Vulcan. Once they noted on their scanners that the Vulcan crew had done the same, they began to relax. Reducing their speed to warp two-point-six to stay in range of the larger shuttle meant that it would take a full two days for the return trip. However, this nearly assured them of safe passage back into Vulcan territory. Two and a half hours after departing the planet, Pavel copied the communiqué the Vulcan team sent to the High Command. To the letter, the message was exactly what Jim had advised them to send. Pavel linked the guidance control to match that of the larger vessel and set the controls on automatic. Back in undisputed Federation space, the hostages secure, the ship on 'auto', and all of them on their way back to the safety of Vulcan, the Russian knew there was nothing to do but sit back--in wherever space could be found to do so--and enjoy the ride. He should have been feeling quite contented. However, Pavel found that he was feeling anything but. He couldn't help but worry about the man who was now back in the hands of his people. He knew he'd never find out what happened to Maltz, but he also knew he'd never stop wondering. Too, now that the situation had eased, he had time to consider some of what Jim had said before the transfer. That, he discovered, was disturbing him even more than his thoughts of the Klingon. Chapter 9 Saavik stood at the threshold of T'Pau's home waiting to be announced. It was not the first time she had met with the small, but commanding, matriarch of her adoptive family since she arrived on the planet in the confiscated Bird of Prey. As was her duty, Saavik had reported her suspicions to the regal dowager as soon as she was able, which was immediately following the fal-tor-pan. Her first visit had been merely a formality, a notification that further investigation was required. This time, she struggled to still the apprehension that attempted to rise within her. This was not a time to show weakness. T'Pau's assistant came back to the entry and nodded to Saavik, indicating for her to follow. The home was not large. It did not speak of the authority that the woman had wielded for over a hundred of Vulcan's most chaotic years. T'Pau, herself, was all within the home that spoke of such power. Even now, bent from age and no longer able to walk on her own, her small frame seemed nearly lost in the large chair in which she was seated, yet her eyes, dark and piercing, still radiated the supremacy that she had long commanded. The hair that had been deepest black now had broad, contrasting white streaks running through it, yet it was piled neatly and impeccably on top of her head, held tight with a large, ornamental comb. Entering the room, Saavik bowed deeply and awaited her acknowledgment before she would rise and look directly at her elder. "Come closer, child," T'Pau spoke. Even in her advanced age, it sounded like a command. Most likely, it was meant to. Rising, Saavik took the few steps that would close the distance between them. "Sit," T'Pau indicated the chair that had been positioned directly in front of her. It was a great honor to be invited to sit with this woman. She allowed few visitors these days, and even if summoned, the discussions were never long enough to require such an informal repose. "Thank you, T'sai," Saavik said respectfully as she seated herself gracefully on the edge of the chair. Never would she consider reclining herself fully into it, resting her back. To do so, would be to treat this woman as an acquaintance, an equal, and this woman was many things, but Saavik knew she could never be her equal. "So, child, is there verification?" "Yes, T'Sai. There is no doubt," she replied, her head bowed slightly. "Then it is true. Thee carries t'dahsular s'natya-yu-murlar, each fathered by a different male." "Yes, T'sai. The healer has confirmed this. The genetic scan confirms that David Marcus fathered one; Spock fathered the other." "The healer has made arrangements?" T'Pau asked. "Yes, T'sai. The procedure is scheduled for the first day of K'ri'lior. However, I shall be reporting to the clinic this evening for preparation." "Two days then, and it shall be done." Although not a question, Saavik bowed her head once more and replied, "Yes, T'sai." "Has thee considered a bond?" T'Pau asked. It felt as if the woman's eyes were penetrating deep into Saavik's soul. Saavik shook her head insistently. "No, T'Sai. He who held my heart is dead. He who I saw through the burning does not belong to me. Even though he does not remember, two others hold his heart. Perhaps there will come a time when I wish to share my mind with someone, but I will not be bonded out of duty." Saavik felt a flash of defiance rising within her. If this woman, or anyone else, demanded that she be bonded to bear these children, then she would leave the planet once it was safe to do so, and have them alone. Already she felt the deep burning of love for them both, and regretted that they would soon have to be removed from her, even for the short amount of time it would take to prepare her body so that she could carry them to term. She would not subject herself to a bond, giving anyone else rights over her children, no matter the forcefulness of the demand. T'Pau closed her eyes briefly, as if considering Saavik's words. When she opened them again, she answered, "Most logical, and most wise for someone so young. Hast thee informed either the yatua or the sa'mekh'al? They must be told before thee dost proceed." "No, T'sai. The Brother's of Zi'har have warned me that I should not inform Spock of those things which he does not remember. I went to Admiral Kirk and had planned on advising him at that time. However, once I gave him the message that Spock sent through me, he seemed most distressed. I decided that to tell him of things that would remind him of the death of his son would be cruel and irresponsible. Therefore, neither has been made aware." "What message were you given, my child?" "Admiral Kirk had requested to meet with Spock. He has declined to do so." "Spock has declined to meet with his bondmate? Why would this be? Those who were his bondmates should be at his side to assist him in regaining those parts of his memory that are not yet complete." "That is not the belief of those who are in charge of his retraining, T'sai. They feel that for him to be presented with those things that he does not remember on his own could be dangerous to him." The ancient woman's eyes flashed, as she replied, "Child, there is no danger in truth. Only in ignorance can there be peril. Who advised thee of such things?" "It was Brother Slevain, the head of the Order, who advised me. He stated that T'sai Amanda felt there existed a great threat to Spock's psyche should he be given information that he was unprepared to assimilate." "Amanda's decision. I should have foreseen this. This explains much. From the beginning she has resented Spock's bond, wishing for him to assure her own happiness through offspring." "And you did not, T'sai? Spock is the last of this line. I would think that you, also, would have wished for Spock to procreate." Saavik bit her bottom lip, knowing she had stepped over the line of respect that the woman commanded. Surprisingly, when the woman looked at her, it was not wrath, but warmth that she saw shining from the dark eyes. "Child, Spock is my grandson. Perhaps I have always felt a kindness toward him that is not purely logical. However, many years ago, through my own foolishness, I witnessed his distress when he thought he had killed one that he loved. Even then he did not realize the depth of feeling he had toward those who had accompanied him on that tragic day. But I was aware. When I touched his mind, I discerned those desires that lay within him--passions which he had yet to believe were possible. When I discovered the deception that was used against me, my reaction should have been swift retribution. Instead, I found that I was at peace. Neither would he face prosecution, nor would he be denied the opportunity for contentment. I could not be certain that they would find their way to each other, but the opportunity was still available for them. "As for him producing offspring, that is no longer an issue. However, neither was it a concern. Either it would happen, or it would not. Kaiidth. Spock is still a young man. He has many years ahead of him. In either case, satisfaction cannot be found in the future, for the future is uncertain. The past is past and we can only learn from it. Only in the present can peace be found. This, my son's wife has yet to realize." "You are most wise, T'sai T'Pau," Saavik nodded, truly awed by the elderly woman's wisdom. "Child, thee is k'war'ma'khon, as close as family, yet not genetically related, and thee carries within your body two offspring who will be descended of this line. Thee shall call me Ko'mekh-il." Saavik felt most honored at being allowed to call this woman by the familial title of grandmother, but didn't understand how the child fathered by David could be of this line. "Most kind, Ko'mekh-il, but forgive me, I do not understand how both children will be of this line." "The human father is offspring of one who has been accepted into the House of Sarek through a bond. Even though the mental bond no longer exists, the place that Kirk holds in the family of my son is not diminished. Therefore, with Kirk's approval, the child of his son is to be granted status. Although the blood will not run the same, the honor of the family will be bestowed upon both equally." "Am I to understand that the child fathered by my human lover will not be granted status without Admiral Kirk's approval?" This was something that Saavik had not considered. "Is that the only way?" "You must have his word. It is the Vulcan way. As head of the House of Sarek, my son can give his permission, but it would not be a position sealed through a bond. It is my wish that both your children be granted unquestioned honor." "I am most pleased by your words, Ko'mekh-il. I, too, wish this for my children. I shall do all in my power to raise them to honor and respect their Vulcan heritage." "My child, thee has been blessed with a great spirit. Those who have fathered your children are equally spirited. Teach them well, but do not attempt to suppress completely that which will come naturally. This, my son tried with Spock. At the time I approved. It was an error on both our parts." "Yes, Ko'mekh-il. I will remember your wisdom." "You have duties to perform. You must inform those involved of the impending birth of these children. Your silence will benefit no one." "Yes, I will do so right away. I am to meet with Spock this day, and I will go to James Kirk when I leave here." "Very well. Now, my child, you must leave me. There are matters which require my attention." Saavik stood up and bowed deeply before T'Pau. She felt a small, feeble hand caress her hair. Through the slight touch, she felt a wave of pleasure that emanated from the elderly woman. Saavik was glad that she could bring her this feeling. "My child," T'Pau spoke barely above a whisper. "A single grain of sand can become the rarest of all pearls. Within thee dwells two grains from the very soul of our desert. Nurture them well for they shall arise and take their place among the leaders of our people." Saavik could not answer. Her throat was full and her eyes stung with the wise woman's words. Somewhere, deep within her, Saavik realized the magnitude of T'Pau's words. As she left, Saavik heard T'Pau's voice, no longer reflecting the warmth of these last minutes, commanding that her aides attend her and assist her in making the necessary contacts. She may have been beyond the years when her voice caused even the most powerful in the Federation to quake, but Saavik was quite certain that many on Vulcan were going to be most aware of her presence before the day ended. Saavik's meeting with Spock had been scheduled for just after the midday meal. To disturb him during his training would not be allowed. Therefore, her first duty was to go to Admiral Kirk. Sliding into the shuttle, she informed her driver to take her to the transportation center at the base of Mount Seleya. It had just been three days since she had last been there. During the short ride, her thoughts were centered on how exactly she would go about informing the admiral about the pending birth of his grandchild, David's child, as well as the child fathered by Spock. It was not easy to fully understand. It had taken her several hours after hearing the news to completely believe it, and she was certain that it was going to be less easy to explain. Too, humans could be quite capricious, and she could not deny the fact that this concerned her. The shuttle landed and she exited. The back ramp was open, just as it had been three days before when she came to see Admiral Kirk. However, on this day, there was no one present to greet her. She walked up the ramp and entered the ship. She did not know where any of the crew was located, but decided to check the same room Kirk had shown her to on her previous visit. Stopping at the entrance and peering inside, the man she looked for was not there. However there was someone who had his arms folded and his head resting on them. She recognized the top of the head as that of Leonard McCoy. Chapter 10 The crew that had remained on Vulcan had been working non-stop for the last thirty VuH on the Bird of Prey. They didn't need a translator to know they were well into their second Standard day of continuous labor. Weary muscles and bleary eyes were all the proof they needed. Meals were periodically brought to them, but were barely touched. Brief respites of rest were taken only when total exhaustion, uncooperative bodies, and frayed nerves demanded it. Sulu and Uhura had alternated monitoring the comm center, one listening while the other worked on getting the bridge controls back online--as much as possible. Sulu was quite aware of the shambles that the ship was in. If the word was received that they were needed, the ship needed to be space-worthy, a formidable task to say the least. They all hoped that the signal indicating the shuttle was in trouble never came, but if it did, the crew was determined to have the Bird of Prey ready to go...somehow. As it was, cables that ran nowhere and disconnected units were strewn about the bridge. Sulu remembered Pavel's idea on the day of the refusion on how best to approach the upcoming work on the vessel. His lover had wanted to dismantle the alien ship piece-by-piece, just to see what made her 'tick'. Looking around, he realized that Pavel had come damned close to getting his wish. Leonard spent most of the time below with Scotty to lend a hand where he could. Sulu silently mused that, by the looks of it, as much as their cantankerous CMO had denied it in the past, the doctor did make a fine engineer's mate. Hikaru had been certain that someday the words, 'Dammit, Jim, I'm a doctor, not an engineer!' were destined to be engraved on McCoy's headstone. However, he decided that this experience just might prove them all wrong. Sulu found in those first two days that he could be as harsh a taskmaster as Jim Kirk ever dreamed of being. However, considering the situation, no one seemed to mind. Ambassador Sarek left right after the shuttle departed and had not been back since, only leaving word that he was to be contacted once the situation was resolved. As involved as the ambassador had been in the events surrounding the confiscation of the Enterprise, the fact that he was nowhere to be found during this time had taken Hikaru by surprise. He had openly deliberated about this with Nyota, wondering out loud if the ambassador had gotten his fill of covert activities at that time, but she had little to say on the subject. It was as if she knew the reason, but wasn't saying a word. He finally decided to drop it. If she did know anything, a photon torpedo wasn't going to blast it out of her. The comm unit had been eerily silent since the shuttle carrying Jim, Pavel, and the Klingon prisoner left, and the sound of the sudden, shrill signal caused both Sulu and Uhura to jump. Uhura was seated at the unit and quickly keyed the 'receive' button. Sulu realized he was holding his breath. "This is the Bounty," she responded. After a moment, she replied, "I understand. Thank you." Keying off the unit, she and turned to Sulu. There was a puzzled look of concern on her face. "Well?" he demanded anxiously, not giving her a chance to report. "That was an attaché from the Vulcan High Council. Word has been received from the science vessel transporting the team from La'ishi. They informed the Council that they have completed all research at the outpost and are bound for Vulcan. They stated that they have an equipment shuttle in tow, and decontamination procedures are to be put in place since the shuttle has toxic substances onboard." "That's the Aluk'cet," Hikaru nodded, and grinned. "But I don't understand, Ru," Nyota shook her head. "Toxic substances? Has something happened?" "No, not at all. No ship is going to approach that shuttle, not with there being a threat of contamination. They'll be given a wide berth straight to Vulcan. Brilliant! I'll bet you credits to donuts that Admiral Kirk is behind this. The message was probably sent on a frequency that guarantees every ship across three quadrants picked it up. Free passage, that's what that is!" he grinned. "Come on, let's tell Scotty and Leonard. This is too good not to deliver in person." "Yes, right away," she said as she turned back in her seat and keyed the comm unit to standby. As she was doing this, Sulu turned, took a deep, cleansing breath, and ran his hand across the back of his neck. He had hoped for the best, but as the knot in his gut began to relax, one he hadn't even been aware of until just that moment, he realized he had been prepared for the worst. But they were headed back---Pav was headed back, and he couldn't wait to get his arms around him. God...if anything had happened to him... Attempting to stem his excitement, he reminded himself that this mission was far from over. Even though it looked good, Pavel and Admiral Kirk still had to get back to Vulcan without being caught. He wouldn't rest until the shuttle's supports were safely extended upon the red sand. ********************* After receiving the news that the shuttle was on its way back to Vulcan, Leonard McCoy had insisted that Scotty take a rest, even if only a brief one. The task they were doing at the moment only required one set of hands, and it was as good a time as any to see to it that their chief engineer's welfare was attended to, especially since the main pressure seemed to be off, and there had been very little down time in the last two days. Total exhaustion could no longer be ignored and, as Sulu had pointed out, there was no telling what the next hours would bring. Amazingly, Scotty hadn't given him much of an argument, speaking volumes about how tired the man really was. It was only a couple of hours, but when the Scotsman returned, he did seem surprisingly refreshed and ready to go. However, Leonard hadn't expected Scotty to turn the tables on him. "Now, Leonard, it's yer time to rest while I finish up here," Scotty said, taking over attaching the wires to the main junction relay. "I'm okay for the time bein', Scotty," he protested. "Ach! I'll not be havin' ye keel over just when I need ye the most!" Scotty countered. "It'll be a wee rest that ye'll be gettin' in the next few hours, Doctor. And as my assistant, *that's* an order!" The grin on the Scotsman's face, a nice reprieve from the strain they had all felt in the last days, didn't disguise the seriousness of the command. Relenting, McCoy laid down his tools and left the area. He intended to go to the break room and see if there was anything cool to drink in the storage unit, but had only entered the room when the fatigue of the last two days suddenly seemed to weigh him down. Sitting down at the table, he had intended to rest his head for just a moment, but was asleep before he knew it. He didn't awaken again for over an hour when he heard his name being called. "Dr. McCoy?" The voice seemed familiar in the haze of too little sleep and the panicked awareness of needing to wake up. His mind fought its way to consciousness, struggling to make something coherent out of his surroundings. "Dr. McCoy? I am sorry to disturb you, but I am looking for Admiral Kirk. Can you tell me where I can find him?" McCoy raised his head and shook it to clear the last of the cobwebs away. Rubbing his eyes with the palms of his hands to clear his vision, he looked up. Standing in the doorway was Saavik, looking for all the world like a vision. "Saavik!" he greeted her. "Well, I'll be damned!" Then, embarrassed by having been caught sleeping at a time like this, he added, "Sorry. Just catching forty winks." "Sir?" she asked, obviously confused. "Just resting my eyes for a bit," he grinned in her direction. "So, tell me, what brings you by these parts?" "I am attempting to locate Admiral Kirk. It is important that I speak with him." Standing up and walking over to the door where Saavik was waiting, he said, "Sorry, Saavik. He's not here." "Then where may I locate him? It is important that I speak with him right away." There was an unmistakable urgency to her voice. Whatever it was that had her upset, McCoy concluded that it was mighty serious. "I can't tell you that, Saavik, but let's go someplace where we can talk. You seem like a woman with a problem." He decided that to get off the ship for even a brief amount of time would be wonderful, and there was a place under one of the wings that would afford them some relief from the unrelenting sun. It was there where he led her. Pulling up two crates so they could be seated, he indicated to her to do so. "So, tell me, what's got you in such an all-fired hurry to speak to Jim? Is it something about Spock? Has something happened to him?" She shook her head. "No, Doctor, but I must speak with the admiral, nonetheless." "I'm afraid that's gonna to be impossible, at least for the next couple'a days." "That will not do. I must tell him today, and as soon as possible. I would like to do so before I inform...before I can share this with another." Whatever it was that had her going, the stress in her voice was obvious. McCoy decided he could sit here and play twenty questions with her, let her leave in this state, or try to get to the bottom of it. As was his nature, he chose the latter of the options. "Saavik, I can't get you in touch with Jim, not right now, but I'm here if you want to talk. Anything you'd like to confide in an old country doctor?" "I...I have been to T'Pau." "T'Pau? Does this have something to do with our being here?" "No, this is personal, Dr. McCoy." "Well, I can promise you that it'll go no further if you don't want it to. I've been known to have a pretty good shoulder from time to time." Saavik nodded. After a brief hesitation, she said, "Doctor McCoy, I am pregnant." McCoy watched her carefully before responding. "Normally I would say that's great news, but for some reason I get the feeling that maybe it's not good news for you." "No, you misunderstand me. I am most pleased to be carrying these children." "Did you say *these* children? As in more than one?" he asked, his eyes widening. "Yes, Doctor, I have two fetuses inside of me. It is difficult to explain." "I'm a doctor, Saavik. I don't guess there's much that would surprise me about basic reproduction. I think I've heard it all by this time. Besides, twins aren't all that uncommon." "Each child has a different father." Blowing a whistle out between his lips, he straightened. "I take it back, maybe I haven't heard it all. Ya wanna start from the beginning?" he asked, leaning forward and smiling gently at her. He realized that to explain such private things was not in her nature, but she seemed like she needed to talk to someone. Nodding, she said, "I had begun a sexual relationship with David Marcus. Not realizing that I was in a fertile state, I had intercourse with him before we went to the Genesis planet." She stopped and cleared her throat. "Dr. McCoy, I had found love with David. We had not known each other long, but what we felt for one another was quite real, and quite...intense." McCoy leaned over and laid his hand on top of hers. "Saavik, I'm so sorry. I never realized what a loss you'd suffered with his death--none of us did. I think we were all concerned about Jim, never realizing what it was doing to you." Her eyes seemed to cloud as she nodded. "Thank you," she choked. "I cared for David, I had discovered love with him, but there were things he had done that were not logical; were not right. Even knowing that, it did not keep me from feeling the loss when he was killed." "That's understandable," he soothed. "Sometimes we find ourselves loving a person, but that doesn't necessarily mean we understand some of the things they've done. Unfortunately, I think our hearts and our minds have a very thin connection sometimes." "Indeed, Doctor McCoy. However, I have had to accept his death, and the reasons for it, knowing that to do otherwise could damage his child." He couldn't help himself as he reached up and brushed back the hair that had fallen into her eyes. When she looked up, her eyes shone from the tears that threatened but she refused to allow to spill. Privately, he lamented at how young she seemed, much too young to be dealing with so much. "But you said there are two children. The other?" he asked, gently. She nodded and straightened before continuing. "Once we were on the Genesis planet, we encountered Spock. Due to the effects of the planet, he was aging rapidly. His growth cycle was greatly accelerated, and he did not understand the burning madness that came to him." "But you did, and you helped him." "Yes," she admitted, her gaze dropping once more. "My body did not yet recognize the fact that I was already impregnated, since it had just been hours since my last encounter with David. It was evidently that last encounter between us when we conceived. Because of the hormones that are released when a female encounters a male in pon farr, Spock's burning caused my body to prepare an additional egg for the time of mating. This, he fertilized." "Making Spock the father of the other fetus." "Yes," she nodded. "Is it possible? To carry them both to term? And is that what you want to do?" "Yes, Doctor. I desire that very much. However, it is not possible without assistance from a healer. I report to the healer this evening to have them extracted so that my body can be genetically coded to nourish them. The fetuses will be kept in vitro until my body can accept and nurture them safely. Once my body has been prepared, they will be reimplanted into me for the duration of the gestation." "And this can be done without damage to you? "It is not a common procedure, but the healer feels it can be accomplished with only a minimal risk." "Saavik, forgive me, but you must have known this for several weeks. Why do you seem...well...so upset and feel the need to tell Jim today?" "Given the Vulcan female's response to pon farr, I suspected that I was pregnant after the encounter with Spock. Examination upon my arrival on Vulcan showed the presence of two fetuses. However, their genetic make-up was only completed five days ago. There are issues regarding this that I was unaware of until today." McCoy rested his arms on his knees and entwined his fingers. "Mind if I ask what issues?" "As I have stated, I have come from a meeting with T'Pau. She has instructed me that I must advise both Spock and Admiral Kirk of my pregnancy before this procedure progresses. I have a meeting scheduled with Spock this afternoon, and I believe he will offer no resistance. Admiral Kirk, however, is another matter. Humans can be...most unpredictable." "I'm afraid I have to agree with you there," McCoy couldn't help but grin. "But I don't think you have anything to worry about with Jim. It's David's child, one of them anyway. He'll be overjoyed." "Will he, Doctor? Will he choose to embrace this, or will he be reminded of that which he has lost? I must gain the admiral's approval if my child by David is to be granted status in the House of Sarek. Admiral Kirk has lost both his son and his bondmate. In his grief, he may choose to not allow my child that which it deserves, its acceptance, its claim of birthright." McCoy could tell that she had thought this out carefully. Under normal circumstances he knew Jim would be thrilled by the news. But even he had to admit that the Jim who had been with them these last weeks wasn't the same man he had always known. In reality, there really was no predicting how this would affect his former lover. "Let me get this straight. Even though we're no longer bonded to Spock, Jim is still considered a member of the House of Sarek, as am I. But for your child to be accepted, the child that is David's, Jim must give his approval for it to be able to claim that connection?" "Yes, Dr. McCoy. Without it, I will have one child considered with status, for I am certain that Spock will give his approval, and one considered without." "Couldn't this wait a day or two, until you can speak with Jim?" "No, Doctor McCoy. To wait any longer will endanger my children. Time is of the essence, and I must be assured of each child having equal status." "And I assume that Spock can't grant you what you need for both children, right?" "That is correct since he does not have memory of the bond that existed between Admiral Kirk, himself, and you. In actuality, Spock has the right to declare his offspring, and any of those descended of bonded mates, as the beginning of the House of Spock. I am certain, however, that considering his decision to pursue a dedication to the mastery of the Disciplines, it would be impossible for him to claim the position as 'head of a House' and still fully commit himself to the Order." McCoy straightened and looked at her. "The Order? Are you sayin' that Spock's gonna recommit himself to the kolinahru? When?" "It does seem to be the choice he is most seriously considering. He will not be able to make a declaration until after the Great Fasting, which occurs in three days. I feel this will be my last opportunity to speak with him." "Son-of-a-bitch!" McCoy muttered under his breath, feeling any hope of a reconciliation between himself and his bondmates fading away. Leonard remembered how painful it had been when Spock had sealed himself behind those damned walls once before. How he had followed Spock to Vulcan in hopes of stopping him, and how very close he had come to losing a grip on reality when he failed. But his own feelings weren't the issue at the moment. He had to draw his thoughts away from Spock, and concentrate on Saavik. "So, if I'm understand correctly, you are needing assurance today that both children have been accepted into the clan of Spock's family. For this, you need both Spock and Jim to declare their acceptance." "Yes, that is correct. It is very important to speak with Admiral Kirk if my child by David is to be treated equally. Without it, I will not allow either to be raised on Vulcan, and must consider other alternatives. However, Doctor, there are risks to the fetuses with this procedure, and I am aware of the prejudices that still exist on this planet. Unfortunately, I believe that without the assurances that comes with the status of the household, if there is a question of one child being endangered..." "You're afraid the healers will choose the life of Spock's child over David's?" McCoy asked incredulously. "That's outrageous!" "It is logical, Doctor, but a situation that I do not wish to face. It is important to me that each child be considered with equal value." McCoy came to a decision. She had to be told why she couldn't see Jim. "Saavik, Jim's not on the planet. This has to be kept a secret due to the dangers of him being where the patrols can find him, but he and Pavel Chekov had to return the prisoner, Maltz, to the Klingons. They were holding the scientists on La'ishi hostage until his release. The last word we got was that the exchange had been accomplished and they are on their way back, but they won't be here for almost two days. Isn't there anyone else who could grant this for you, at least until Jim returns?" "Ambassador Sarek could declare his acceptance of the child into the family with notification through the High Council, just as he accepted me into his family many years ago. But it will not be as binding as that of the person connected to this child through a bond." "I'm sure there's a reason in there somewhere, but I'll be damned if it makes sense to me." She opened her mouth to explain further, but he cut her off. "No, don't tell me. The reasons are probably buried somewhere deep in Vulcan dogma, and you'll only give me a headache if you try to explain. Just tell me this, can you go to Sarek and get whatever you need from him for the time being?" "I attempted to contact Ambassador Sarek this morning, however, the ambassador is not accepting visitors at this time." "Well, we'll just have to see about that. Do you want me to go with you to try to see him?" "I must meet with Spock in one hour, Dr. McCoy. If I miss this meeting, I am afraid there will be no other opportunity." "Saavik, do you want me to go to Sarek on your behalf? I'm pretty sure I can get in to see him." Her eyes looked up at him, and her gratitude was obvious. "Would you, Doctor?" Sarek wasn't someone he looked forward to seeing. McCoy knew very well how hard it was to put his feelings aside when he was in Sarek's presence. But...how could he refuse those eyes? For her sake, he would go. "Sure I will. You let me take care of Sarek, and you take care of Spock. I'll make sure that you have all you need before you go in, okay?" She nodded as one tear spilled onto her cheek. He reached across and removed it gently with his thumb. "Now, now. We'll have none of that. After all, we have those babies to think about, right?" She swallowed and blinked. "Yes, Doctor, we do," she agreed. "Forgive me. I believe that my physical condition is interfering with my ability to remain in control," she stated, quickly regaining her composure. "Perfectly understandable. Now, you go take care of what you need to, and I'll do the same," he said, as they both stood up. "Thank you, Doctor McCoy," she nodded. "Hey, ya know, it just hit me. If I've been bonded to both Jim and Spock, that makes me related to them...somehow, doesn't it?" "Actually, you shall have status of co-grandfather to the child by David, and co-father to the one fathered by Spock." "God! That's too damned confusing! Let's just make it 'Uncle Leonard', shall we?" he grinned. "As you wish. Uncle Leonard, it shall be." As he walked her back toward the shuttle she had arrived in, he placed his arm around her shoulders, drew her close, and gave her a small kiss on her temple. "And that, you're all gonna to have to get used to," he teased. "I believe it may be one of the more pleasanter aspects of this, Uncle Leonard," she sighed. Once she had departed, he rubbed his hands together, unable to rid himself of the smile he'd had for the last few minutes. "Well, I'll be damned!" he exclaimed as he headed back into the ship to locate Sulu and let him know he was leaving. There was an important matter he had to attend to. Home/Next Chapters |