Method of Persuasion
Summary: A sequel to "Diversionary Strike".
Method of Persuasion
"Spock, just answer the question. Is it theoretically possible?"
Spock sighed and considered his options. There were three possible methods
of dissuading Captain Kirk from following an illogical course of action:
First, present the facts. By doing so he might be able to steer the captain
towards a more rational decision. This was always the optimum solution.
But Kirk had to actually listen to his advice for this to work, and, despite
Kirk's question, Spock could tell that Kirk was in no mood to listen to
anyone today.
Second, do nothing. Frequently, Kirk when made a decision, nothing Spock
said or did - for that matter, nothing in the known galaxy - could dissuade
him from following through. It was therefore illogical to expend energy
trying to change his mind. However, when Kirk made this type of decision,
he made it quickly, with a minimum of verbiage. So far, this did not appear
to be an option two scenario.
Third, let nature run its course. He could wait for Kirk to end his rant on
whatever happened to be bothering him. Sometimes Kirk was more amenable to
reason after one of his extended, animated monologues. But this option was
very time consuming - when Kirk got worked up about something, he could go
on for quite some time - and not always successful.
Hoping he was near the end of an option three decision, Spock plunged ahead.
"Yes, Captain, it is theoretically possible for me to override Dr. McCoy's
medical clearance and change your diet card. But the consequences-"
"I don't care. I'm tired of his interference and meddling. I am a grown
man and can look after myself. Do you know he actually put "tendency to
gain weight" in the medical profile on me he sent to HQ? Komack put that in
my damn efficiency rating! Now you tell me, Spock, do I look fat to you?"
Spock was spared having to formulate a response when Kirk answered his own
question. "Of course not! I'm in great shape. But he doesn't let that
stop him. McCoy is getting too damn arrogant for his own good. This is MY
ship, dammit." Kirk pounded his desk for emphasis. "I'm the Captain. And
I refuse to be mothered by him any longer.
"I WANT that all-Twinkies diet card! After his lecture this morning I have
absolutely no choice. He went on for an hour about the evils of Twinkies!
TWINKIES, for God's sake! I haven't had one since I was a kid. But now I'm
going to replicate about forty of them each day. Then I'm gonna force every
crewman who looks even remotely chubby to scarf a few of 'em down. Scotty
better like cream filling 'cause I'm gonna stuff him every morning.."
This had gone on long enough. "Jim, if you recall, I was present for part
of the "Twinkies" discussion this morning. I do not believe McCoy was
referring to your eating habits. Rather, I believe the good Doctor was
trying to warn you against indulging your attraction to women of, shall we
say, appealing physical proportions but limited intellectual capacity."
Startled, Kirk looked up suddenly. His face brightened, and all rancor left
his expression. "You know, Spock, that conversation makes a lot more sense
now." Gradually a slow smile lit up his face. "But, I'm definitely not
giving up the Twinkies."
FINIS