Mission of Honor - usual disclaimer:   Paramount owns Star Trek and its
characters, as we all know.  In addition, I've borrowed characters  and 
concepts
from Trek novelists Diane Duane, Vonda McIntyre and Robert Vardeman,  
and
John Ford among others, and only flattery is meant by this imitation.   
This is fan
fiction, very non-commercial and no infringement on anyone's rights is 
intended.  
The story is mine, and copyright, V.B. Worthen, 1995.





                                      MISSION OF HONOR

                                                      By

                                      Virginia Boehm Worthen




                                             Chapter 1




     It was all the Organians' fault.  Leonard McCoy heartily damned

them as he waited for Jim to begin the mission briefing.  Jim

should still be fishing on Centaurus, or be someplace else,

anyplace else, other than the Starship Enterprise.  Giving Jim

this mission was a bit like ordering an alcoholic who was just

getting dried out to go on a bender.  And it was all the

Organians' fault.  Damned glow worms, the Klingons called them.

He grumbled to himself as the Enterprise passed an Excelsior class

starship under construction, on her way out of San Francisco

spacedock.

     The babel of close to 400 voices hushed as James T. Kirk

walked out and stood by the viewports in Rec One, the ship's

largest recreation room and gathering place.  Then the applause

began.

     The man doesn't even have to say anything to set them off,

McCoy thought to himself.  And he feeds off it.

     Jim raised his hand to still the applause, "Welcome back, one

more time.  And this really is the last mission for this ship and

for many of her senior officers including me.  Sorry to have cut

shore leaves short and to have messed up so many re-assignments."

     From the expression on many of the assembled faces, McCoy got

the impression that most preferred this new mission, whatever it

might turn out to be, to shore leave.  What does he do to them,

McCoy wondered, not for the first time.  What is there about this

man that makes them all so willing to follow him anywhere,

probably including hell, and like it.  Me too.  I have.

     "Anyhow, here's the story, " Kirk continued.  "As you know, a few 
week ago, 

we managed to break up a conspiracy aimed at wrecking our chances for

peace with the Klingons, and the treaty did get negotiated on

Kittomar.  It's more than just a non-aggression pact - it's also a

trade agreement, and an agreement to exchange a lot of science and

technology.  With any sort of luck, scientific cooperation will be

able to solve the problem with Klinzhai's atmosphere so the

Klingons won't have to evacuate their home world after all.  And,

the treaty has the long term goal of bringing the Klingon Empire

into the Federation.

     "About 25 years ago, an altercation between the original

 Enterprise, with me in command, and a Klingon military occupation

force commanded by Commander Kor took place on Organia, and led to

what was known as the Organian Peace Treaty - you're all very,

familiar with that and also with the fact that the peace of

Organia hasn't been very peaceful at times."

     Kirk paused, and waited until the chuckles and murmurs died

down, then continued. "What you may not know is that when the

Peace of Organia was shoved down our unwilling throats, the

Organians told us that the day would come when Federation and

Empire would willingly negotiate a true peace, and become good

friends.  Kor and I scoffed at them.

     "Well, it's happened - at least the peace part - and the

Organians requested that the formal signing of the treaty be on

Organia, and that Kor, and one James T. Kirk, be present at the

ceremonies.   That's half the reason we're here."

     He's spinning this out on purpose, McCoy realized.  He's got

them hanging on his every word.  And they love it.

     "The other half - well, Starfleet figured since they had to

send me to Organia I might as well work my passage..."

     The laughter was loud and long.  McCoy laughed too - he

couldn't help it.  Even Spock, standing next to him, almost

smiled.

     "...so we're acting as a diplomatic carrier and will wend our

way to Organia stopping here and there to pick up diplomats and

assorted VIPs.  Getting there will take us 11 or 12 days; we'll be

orbiting Organia for a couple of days; then a quicker trip back

since many of the diplomats will be staying on Organia to palaver

for a while.

     "If this mission goes as planned..."

     Which, McCoy told himself, would be a first for the

Enterprise...

     "...we'll be back a couple of weeks before our scheduled

retirement date.  And that's the way Starfleet wants it - after

all, if they had to delay a bunch of senior officer retirements - well 

just think of all the paperwork."

     
     Kirk held up his hand.  The laughter ceased  as abruptly as

if a switch had been thrown.  "Speaking of paperwork, I guess you

all known that things are pretty chaotic at Starfleet Headquarters

right now.  Cartwright and his fellow conspirators are

awaiting court martial.  It will take a long time before it all

gets sorted out.

     "If you've been following the news, you know that Admiral

Nogura has come out of retirement - again - and is once more

Commander of Starfleet. 

     "I know a lot of you haven't gotten new orders yet, or have

requested assignments and haven't heard, although you should have

by now.   Eventually, Starfleet will get caught up on things.

Just be patient until they do.

     "But," Kirk smiled, "one good thing about the chaos at

Headquarters - Normally, on a mission like this, we'd have

Starfleet brass all over the ship along with the diplomats.

Because of the crisis, Admiral Nogura has decided everybody from

Headquarters is going to stay there and work, instead of partying

their way to Organia.

     "He's made the Enterprise, and me, Starfleet's official

representative to the signing of the treaty.  I get to sign the

treaty as the designated representative of Starfleet."

     This time the applause rocked the room.  McCoy gave up and joined 
in.  It 

really was an extremely

high honor and a whiz bang way to finish a career full of honor.

But after this, how was he going to get Jim off the ship at the

end of the mission?  He'd practically had to carry him off the

bridge kicking and screaming last time.

     "Thank you, thank you all so much," Kirk continued, "But

before you decide I'm such a great guy, I've got to remind you

that we'll be hauling VIP's and what that entails. 

     "For my senior officers and me, there will be several

diplomatic functions aboard - dress uniform, Dr. McCoy..."

     McCoy gave the expected groan.

     "I've asked Mr. Tanzer to take charge of the arrangements for

 the VIPs."  He nodded at the ship's recreation officer.

     "And after we rendezvous with the Klingon ship, we may have

Klingons aboard at times too.  Remember, if you see a Klingon on

the Enterprise, don't shoot - we're at peace with the Empire now!

Also, on our last mission there were some pretty bigoted things

being said about Klingons on this ship, some of them,

unfortunately, by me.  That simply won't be tolerated this time.

     "The diplomats  will have the run of the recreational

facilities of the entire ship, so we're going to have to behave

accordingly.

     "And," Jim looked straight at Heather McConel, Scott's second

in command, "there will be VIP tours through Engineering, and

indeed throughout the ship, so make sure everything is ship-shape,

if you know what I mean."

     There was much good-natured laughter.  McConel had just been

told, obliquely but definitely, to keep the still used to brew the

engine room hootch out of sight.

     Even when he's cracking down on them, they love him, McCoy

thought.  The bond between this ship, its Captain and its crew was

legendary in Starfleet.

     This should be a routine mission, but our routine missions have the 
habit of 

turning distinctly non-routine.

     "We have peace with the Klingons now, but things with the

Romulans are still dicey and they stand to lose by peace between

Federation and Empire.  Remember that their Ambassador was one of

the parties in the conspiracy.  It's possible they might try

something, but I hope not. So enjoy the mission - relax, have fun,

but keep heads up.

     "A couple of introductions I want to make before I open the

briefing up for questions.  First, I'd like to welcome Lieutenant

Commander Saavik back to the Enterprise.   I'm very glad to have

Saavik back aboard."

     There was applause.  McCoy noted out of the corner of his eye

that Spock seemed to be smiling as he applauded.  Must be

imagining things, he told himself.

     "And, someone who many of you served with for many years,

Hikaru Sulu, Captain of the  Excelsior.  Captain Sulu and his ship

 helped us out on our recent adventure, and Starfleet decided

 that got him a ride to Organia as part of our delegation."

     After the applause for Sulu died down, Kirk concluded, "So,

that's the mission, a peaceful cruise to Organia and back with

diplomats to transport.

     "And, one more time for us to be together, my shipmates and

my friends.  Being given this mission is an honor for this ship

and all of us aboard her.  While I wasn't expecting it, I'm

delighted to be here, to be the place in the galaxy I love best,

the Starship Enterprise."

     More applause, a few questions, and the briefing concluded.



     Spock caught McCoy's eye as they followed the Captain from

Rec One and drew him to the side.  " Doctor, I'm  concerned about

Jim."

     "So am I - we both worked long and  hard to get him to accept

the idea of retirement, to go voluntarily, and half-way succeeded.

Then, along comes this mission."

     Spock nodded. "It's a great honor for him, certainly,

especially to be made a signatory on the treaty itself.  But being

back here again is not good for Jim, not in the long run.  He'll

have to face the separation all over again."

     "I know you agreed with me that it was time for Jim to stand

down, now, when he can do so voluntarily, not in a few years when

I'd probably have to certify him as medically unable to command a

Starship.  I've been fudging Scotty's medical records for several

years, but Starfleet wouldn't tolerate that when it's a matter of

command fitness.  Jim's tough, very tough but he's been pushing

himself too hard all these years."

     "You and I finally convinced him it was logical to retire

along with the Enterprise.  He could have taken a different

posting, of course, at Headquarters or a Starbase.  But he'd be

miserable, as you and I know well.  It's best for Jim to make it a

clean break and retire.  But I wish this mission had not come

along."

     "I know.  Well, we got him through it once.  We'll just have

to do it again.  At least, he has two friends he can count on."

     Spock hesitated, then took a deep breath and continued.  "One

of the reasons I'm mentioning my concerns now, Doctor, is that by

the end of the cruise it is probable that I will be too caught up

in my own emotions to be able to deal with Jim's as well."

     "What?  You don't mean...Hell you do..."

     "If I hadn't told you now, it would become obvious to you,

 and I believe only to you, before the end of the mission.

     "But you need not concern yourself with my condition.  I've

been in communication with my parents and my mother has told me

she has found a suitable bondmate for me, and will tell me about

her after we pick up my parents on the way to Organia.  If I

concur with my mother's judgment of suitability, and certainly

expect to do so, I will be bonded on Vulcan immediately after this

mission is completed."

     "Thank you for telling me now, Spock."

     "I trust that this matter will be treated as a medical

 confidence, Doctor.  There is no logical reason for Jim to know."

     "I won't tell him."

     Just what I needed, McCoy mumbled under his breath as he made

his way to sickbay - one more mission, and one where Jim is going

to be a mental case at best, and will probably go totally

ballistic once he finds out about Nogura's little surprise.  On

top of that, Spock's heading into pon farr.  I think I'd rather

fight Klingons.
 
Path: tivoli.tivoli.com!geraldo.cc.utexas.edu!cs.utexas.edu!howland.reston.ans.net!ix.netcom.com!netnews
From: gini@ix.netcom.com (Virginia Boehm)
Newsgroups: alt.startrek.creative
Subject: Repost - Mission of Honor, part 2 of 15
Date: 29 Mar 1995 13:54:53 GMT
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Paramount owns Star Trek and I wrote this story, etc.etc. Copyright V. 
B. Worthen, 1995.

( This chapter is where the romance I mentioned comes in, and it happens 
fast!  I have one
chapter to make a major change in the life of a much revered Star Trek 
character, to do
hopefully in a way that's not too out of character,  and its has to be 
done or else a huge part
of this story can't happen the way it does.  So hang on tight and 
suspend disbelief)


                             Chapter 2




     Kirk, Spock, McCoy and Saavik stood waiting at the docking

port.  The Enterprise was making a brief stop at Starbase 7 near

Vulcan.and Spock's parents would be coming aboard .

They had been informed through diplomatic channels a few hours

before that two Klingon agricultural trade delegates who had been

on their way to Vulcan would also be joining the delegation bound

for Organia.  Adding the two Klingons was playing havoc with Harb

Tanzer's plans - the Enterprise was running out of room in the VIP

quarters.

     Including Saavik in the welcoming party had been Spock's

idea.  Saavik and his parents had become well acquainted when she

was posted on Vulcan after Spock's rescue from the genesis planet.

Amanda and Sarek had sponsored her for Vulcan citizenship,

providing the half-Vulcan half-Romulan Saavik with a home world at

last.  Kirk had forgotten that until Spock's reminder.  Another

sign that perhaps it was time to retire?  Of course Amanda and

Sarek would expect Saavik to be there, and to be included in the
 
private dinner party he was hosting for Spock's parents in his quarters 
later..

     "They're on their way, Captain", Snnanagfashtalli called from

the entry way to the dock.

     "Send them in,"  Kirk nodded at his Security Chief.  Some

beings might be startled by the appearance of his felinoid

Security Chief, but not such  seasoned diplomats as Sarek of

Vulcan and his wife.

     Amanda exchanged the ritual two-finger embrace with her son, shook

hands with Jim and Leonard McCoy, gave Saavik a most human hug,

then held out her hand, fingers down, to Snnanagfashtalli. The

Security Chief, better known aboard the ship as 'Snarl', sniffed

the hand, and offered one of her own front paws to Amanda who

sniffed it in return.  Jim grinned. 

     The Klingons, Krang and Kebble stalked aboard. "So this is the

 famous Enterprise," Krang said in response to Kirk's welcome.

  He looked at Kirk's outstretched hand, "I do not shake hands

 with humans," he said coldly and strode out of the docking 

area accompanied by his colleague.

     "Not all Klingons are ready for peace, Jim," Amanda commented.

     "It was unnecessary for them to be so rude," Sarek remarked.

     "I'd like to be able to say no offense taken if none

intended," Jim remarked ruefully.  "But it's clear that offense

was intended.  So, I'll just have to be thick skinned and not let

it get to me."

     "After all, they are trade delegates from an agricultural

colony, not diplomats from Klinzhai," Sarek reminded him.

     "So far as I'm concerned, the incident is closed," 


     "It's good to be back aboard the Enterprise,"

Amanda remarked over dinner.

     Jim smiled, "Yes.  This was not a mission that I

was expecting, but it's one I welcome."

     "And it does you great honor," Sarek commented. "The

Organians asked for you specifically and then Starfleet Command

designated you Starfleet's official representative.  You'll be

signing a historical document."

     "So will you, my father," Spock reminded him.  "Of all the

Federations's diplomats, your peers chose you to represent them."

     "Yes, it is an honor. I think I was chosen because I would be

 noncontroversial.  Ambassador R'yal is reported to be

most displeased."

     "That's understandable," McCoy commented. "After all, he is

the current Federation Ambassador to the Klingon Empire, and has

been responsible for maintaining such diplomatic relations as

there have been."

     Amanda nodded, "Some in diplomatic circles think

that the treaty was negotiated more in spite of R'yal than because

of him."

     "R'yal has put a good face on the matter and has declared that 

with the signing of the treaty  his job is completed." Sarek noted.

     "Implementing the treaty will be a challenging job," Kirk said.

     "Most challenging, " Sarek agreed.  " There will be many

 challenges, and more than a little danger.  The success or

 failure of the treaty could well depend on the selection of the right 

ambassador - someone who the Klingons will respect and accept,

 but who will work steadfastly for the Federation."

     "Who do you think will get the post?", Jim asked. "It's

probably going to be the most important diplomatic position in the

Federation for the next several years."

     Sarek nodded. " There will be plenty of people who want it.

But will they be the right people?  The post needs someone the Klingons 
will trust."

     "The Klingons aren't known for being trusting types," Jim

commented.

      "But enough of diplomatic gossip," Amanda smiled, " There

will be much of that on this trip.  Let's enjoy this evening

catching up on other matters.

     "Saavik, my dear, " Amanda smiled, " I'm so glad to see you back 
aboard the

Enterprise."

     "I am also pleased," Spock commented.

     Saavik smiled at Spock, "Its good to be back.  The so-called

special assignment Admiral Cartwright cooked up after I returned 

from my assignment on Vulcan  was a ruse. I served as a research

clerk for an academician who wanted to prowl through

old Starfleet records and write yet another book about the

Romulan war of more than a century ago. I  had a lot of free time."

     "Which you spent at Starfleet Headquarters Sports Complex

fencing," Spock noted with a half-smile.  "I used to be able to

out point you about 2 out of 3, Saavik, but based on our matches

of the last two days, this ratio has reversed itself."

     "I've just been fortunate in being able to get under your guard."

     "It's your speed, Saavik.  Yes, my reach is substantially

 longer than yours, but you move faster than I do."

     "Getting old, Spock?" McCoy teased.

     "No more than you are,  Doctor.

     "Well, I did practice quite a bit when I was stationed at

Headquarters.  But it's so good to be back on the ship, and back

with you all.  Amanda, Sarek, I didn't think I'd see you until I

went on leave."

     "You do get leave after this mission, don't you?"

     "Yes, now that my 'special assignment' has been canceled,

I'll be able to take some of my accrued leave after this mission."

     "Are you planning to take your leave on Vulcan?" Spock asked.

     "Certainly.  Vulcan is my home world now."

     "I will see your there.  That would be pleasant.  If you'd

like, I can accompany you and introduce you to many of the people

I know at the Academy and elsewhere, to make you feel truly at

home on your chosen home world."

     "Thank you.  That would be most thoughtful."

     McCoy intercepted a look that passed between Amanda and

Saavik.  Hot damn!  I think I'm on to something, he smiled to himself.



     "That was really a delightful dinner, Jim, "Amanda smiled as

 she and Sarek prepared to leave.  "This should be a most

 pleasant voyage."

     "Perhaps more pleasant than some of us can even anticipate,"

 McCoy added, looking Amanda directly in the eye.

     He couldn't be sure, but he thought he saw Amanda wink.



     "Bones, stay a minute.  Something I want to run by you."

     "Sure, Jim." 

     "Bones, am I imagining things?"

     "If you are, then I am too.  Seems to me that Spock was

pretty direct about being glad Saavik was back aboard, and there

is no question that he offered to take her out and show her the

town when they returned to Vulcan.  Maybe she really has gotten

under his guard, and not just in their fencing matches."

     "Maybe she has, and I hope so.  We both know that Spock has

to get married eventually.  That damned Vulcan biology.  Why not Saavik? 

 His parents clearly approve of  her.  This could  be very interesting."

     "Sure could.   Spock and Saavick...humm... Maybe.    So, let's do a 
little advance 

celebrating.  Suppose you could offer a man a drink?"

     Jim smiled and reached for the Saurian brandy.



     Saavik and Spock continued down the corridor.  "After that

meal, I think I could use a little exercise," she said.

     "That would seem logical.  Do you wish to fence again?"

     She shook her head.  "I'd be too slow and no fit match for

you.  Perhaps a short swim."

     "A good idea," Spock agreed.

     They changed and dove in the cool water.  The water, warm as

it was, felt cool to Spock with his higher Vulcan body temperature

and helped clear his mind.  He knew what was happening, of course

but it was still in its very early stages, and there would be

plenty of time to complete this mission and return to Vulcan

before his ability to perform his duties was incapacitated by the

pon farr, plenty of time to bond with the woman his mother

had selected for him.  He'd find out about her when he met with

 his mother tomorrow.

     But for now, he allowed himself to relax . He turned over on his 
back

 and watched Saavik dive.  She'd been on the Academy Diving

 Team, and her movements were  flawlessly executed and quite

 pleasing to watch.

     Before long, Spock moved to the sundeck, selecting from the 
available

background holos one of a black volcanic beach on the island of

Hawaii.  Spock had been to that beach and found its stark serenity

appealing.

     Shortly thereafter, Saavik came out of the water and called

to him, "Herbal tea?"

     He nodded, "Excellent choice."  Saavik was most thoughtful.

He'd been thinking of just that, and Saavik knew the blend he

preferred.

     She sat down next to him, handing him a steaming cup.  He

sipped it and nodded, "This is just right.  Thank you."

     She sipped at her own tea briefly, and began brushing her

long hair, matted from the water.  "If I wait until it dries, it

takes forever to get the snarls out."

     He smiled at her, "I know," and his thoughts went back to the

year on Dantria IV that he had spent trying to give the nearly

feral child Saavik, who he had rescued from Hellguard, at least

the veneer of civilization.  Convincing her that hair should be

clean and properly combed was one of many battles.

     "Getting me to wear shoes was even more difficult," she

reminded him.  "I was quite the young savage.  Ouch," she

 winced as the brush hit a snarl.

     "Here, let me, Saavikam."  Spock took the brush from her hand

and she turned so he could brush her hair."

     "Saavikam... you haven't called me Saavikam since I was very

new on the Enterprise and little more than a child.  Spock, in

case you hadn't noticed, I am no longer a child."

     "Indeed Saavik," Spock said quietly, "I have noticed.  You

are definitely no longer a child."  He went on brushing the long

dark hair, and didn't notice a flash of movement by the side of

the pool.



     Nyota Uhura hauled Heather McConel back into the locker room,

 away from the pool.

     "Tell me I didn't see that," Heather said, stunned.

     "Of course you didn't see Spock brushing Saavik's hair with

 that bemused look on his face," Uhura said with a grin.  "And

 neither did I, and I hope they didn't see us."

     "This is a historic occasion.  Spock never, but never,

touches a female being, except in emergencies or in the line of

duty.  Yet here he is, calmly brushing Saavik's hair and she's

leaning all over him.  Wait 'til I..."

     Uhura cut her off and hissed. "You'll day nothing.  If Saavik's

trying to accomplish a feat

that has been beyond everyone else, and most of us have tried at

one time or another - even me about twenty five years ago - let's

not do anything to get in her way."

     "You're right.  Damn it - the best ship's gossip in years.

It's even true, and I can't tell anyone.  Saavik would kill me."

     "Right.  Now let's get out of here."



     "Good night, Saavik." Spock left her at the door to her

quarters and continuing on to his own, went immediately to his

meditation stone, and sought to calm himself.

     His behavior on the sundeck had been illogical, most

illogical, and he'd fallen so easily, so naturally, into illogic.

He knew with certainty that at this time, with the first signs of

the pon farr coming upon him, that he must maintain distance from

unbonded females, and what had he done but offer to perform a

service for Saavik that she certainly could perform for herself.

And, Spock turned his very uncompromising honesty on himself, he

had enjoyed it, taken pleasure from the feel of the soft dark hair

and Saavik's nearness.

        Tonight, he still had control, but soon he would not, and the

thought of Saavik, who trusted him implicitly, being caught up

unknowing in his madness was terrible.  She thought of him as her

mentor, even as her father, and tonight he had placed her in

danger.  He would have to be careful, very careful, around Saavik

for the rest of this mission.

     The issue resolved, he quieted his mind and began his

meditations.  Began, and found he could not continue.  Whenever he

stilled his mind, the image of Saavik intruded.

     He got up and began to pace his quarters.  Saavik did regard

him as a father figure.  How could it be otherwise?  So for him to

think of her in any other sense was totally illogical.  But he

could not deny or suppress his thoughts.  He most definitely did

not regard Saavik as a daughter....

      
 
        "Come in my son," Amanda greeted him warmly.  "I'm so glad

you got this mission."  She handed him a glass of wine,

and gestured for him to be seated.

     Spock looked at his mother warily over the rim of the wine

glass.  He knew this discussion was necessary, knew how it would

probably turn out, and yet was quite uneasy about it, illogically

so.  "Thank you, Mother." He took a sip of wine he really didn't

want.

     "Spock," she began. "You know I what I would discuss with

you."

     He nodded. "It grows near my time again, and I should be

bonded soon."

     "That is correct.  I've a suitable woman in mind for you and

your father concurs. I would like to tell you about her, and get

your opinion."

     "Proceed.  I am listening.  Considering my age, I assume a

widow."

     "No Spock, the woman I have in mind has never been bonded.

 She is 30 Standard Years of age."

     Spock nodded.  The difference in their ages would be

insignificant in terms of Vulcan lifetimes.  "Tell me about her?" he 
asked,

because it was expected of him.

     Amanda smiled, "She's a Starfleet Officer,  presently a

Lieutenant Commander and held in high regard."

     Spock thought about it.  Perhaps this was what had caught his

mother's attention about this particular young woman.  Many Vulcan

families might hesitate to agree to a bonding where the parties

would spend extended periods apart, but Spock was accustomed to

extended periods of celibacy and knew that Starfleet over the

years had learned to discretely assure that bonded Vulcans were

never separated at the pon farr.

     "I could accept that, Mother.  I well understand the demands

of a Starfleet career.  Tell me about her family."

     "She effectively has none.  She is krenath and has no desire

for any contact whatsoever with them and I concur."

     Krenath - illegitimate.  Such  gross irregularities didn't

happen very often on Vulcan, but when they did, special care was

taken to assure the child that her parent's behavior was to their

 discredit, not hers.  But still, she would

have had a lonely childhood, have felt a sense of non-belonging.

Probably that was why she opted for a career in Starfleet.  He

took another sip of wine.

     "That does not lessen her in your regard, does it Spock".

Amanda spoke into his long silence.

     He shook his head, "How could it?  In fact, to have overcome

such a background, and to have achieved

a successful career in Starfleet speaks very well of her indeed.

     "Tell me more, Mother.  How did you become acquainted with

her?"

     "She was posted on Vulcan a few years back.  We met and

became friends."

     Spock favored his mother with one of his rare smiles, "I know

your mind, my Mother.  Even then, you thought of her as a possible

mate for your unbonded son."

     "That is true.  And, with that possibility in mind, I kept in

touch.   She's not on Vulcan  now, but her present posting ends 

very soon.  She would be available for the bonding."

     "Clearly, you've thought much about this, Mother.  Tell me

more about her, her character, her demeanor?"

     "She reminds me much in many ways of you, my son.  She is

extremely intelligent and strong willed.  She is intensely loyal

to her friends.   She is honest and forthright in her dealings with

others, courageous and trustworthy.

          "The difficulties of her childhood have molded her into

a strong person, but left her

without bitterness.  Her sense of humor is excellent, in fact

quite extraordinary for a woman of Vulcan, and she does not take

herself too seriously - a trait you sometimes exhibit, Spock."

     "She sounds like a most excellent person, Mother.  Is there

something you're not telling me."

     Amanda smiled, "I forgot to mention that she is beautiful."

     Spock thought.  If everything his mother told him was true

and he knew it was, the woman sounded like an ideal bondmate, and

chosen well for him.  The childhood of knowing one was different,

opting for Starfleet and contact with the infinite diversity of

people in it, of finding one's own path rather than following one

set down.  Spock knew these things well himself.  Yes, it would be

a good match.  They would understand and care for each other.  His

mother had chosen well.

     But would the woman Amanda described find him to be suitable

as well? 

     "Mother, have you by any chance mentioned to her that you

consider her a suitable bondmate for your son."

     "The subject did come up."

     So did Spock's eyebrow.  "And what did she say."

     "That she would bond with you, my son."

     "Did you describe me in such glowing terms that she was

 willing to make such a statement, based simply upon

your perceptions of me.  Are you sure that illogic did not flavor

your remarks?"

     "It probably did, but it does not matter.  She knows you.

You were an instructor of hers in the Command course and on

training cruises."

     Spock nodded.  He had instructed many cadets and newly

commissioned officers, and some of the best had been Vulcan.

     The time had come to do the logical thing and accept what was

offered, putting aside the illogic of what could not be. He made his 
logical decision,

knowing that is was a binding one and would alter the pattern of his 
life.

"In that case,  yes I would bond with her.  The bonding had 

best be arranged for as soon as possible after I return to Vulcan."

     Amanda through her head back and laughed.  Spock hadn't heard

his mother laugh that way since he was a small child, and even

then, never in his father's presence.

     "You are so pleased to have my concurrence, Mother?"

     Amanda shook her head.  "You  don't have to wait until

 your return to Vulcan.  She's aboard the  Enterprise."

     Spock's gasped as recognition came.recognition came. 

 "Ss..saavik!  Mother, you can't mean Saavik.  Why, why, she

 thinks of me  almost as a father."

     Amanda's eyes twinkled. "Her thoughts of you are most

emphatically not those of a daughter for a father.  I suspected

that quite shortly after I met her, and she finally admitted it."

     "And I notice, Spock, that while you protested that you

thought she regarded you as a father, you did not claim to view

her as your daughter."

     "Your observation is very astute, my Mother.  Also it is

accurate.

     "I did not ask the name of the woman before I agreed to bond

with her.  My word is given, and I shall keep it.  In fact ", Spock

said, "I find that I look forward to doing so.  Actually, I

greatly anticipate it."

     "I thought you would.   Go to Saavik, Spock.  She's

waiting for you in her quarters."

     "You told her you would be having this conversation with me?"

     "Certainly."

     "You were that sure of the persuasiveness of your logic?"

     "No.  I was sure of you, my son. You just needed to recognize

 and accept your own desires."

     "I do now.  I have wanted to bond with her for a long time, a

very long time, but did not permit myself to acknowledge it.

Thank you, Mother.

     "We'll hold the bonding on the Enterprise.  Soon."  Spock

spoke over his shoulder as he left the VIP cabin precipitously.



     He almost ran to the corridor outside Saavik's quarters, then  
stopped,

 realizing that he hadn't the slightest idea of what he would say.

But there was nothing to do but proceed.  "Spock" he announced

himself to the door.

     It opened immediately and Saavik was there and he was there,

and for a time, there were no words or need of them.  Then, after

a while there were many words - things she felt she must tell him

(including one that awed him beyond measure),  facts and surmises

he felt compelled to share with her; plans to be made for the

marriage and bonding;  plans for the rest of their lives.



     The gathering of the ship's  officers, plus Amanda, Sarek,

and Sulu, spilled out of Jim's quarters into the corridor, and

overflowed into McCoy's quarters next door.

     "So after all this time, you're going to get married,"

Scotty remarked hoisting a glass of Scotland's most famous

product.  "Congratulations and best wishes to you both."

     "It seems the logical thing to do," Spock said, but he said

it standing close to Saavik and a she with a look in her eyes that

spoke  to the Scotsman of something more primal than logic.

 Ah, so much for Vulcan lack of emotions, Montgomery Scott

told himself.



     "What are you going to wear," Heather McConel asked.

     "I really hadn't thought about it.  I didn't bring much with

me since I was only coming aboard for this mission.  My dress

uniform will do, I suppose."

     "No it won't.  This is an occasion, a real occasion.

     "On Vulcan,  she'd wear  a formal gown in green, the color 

of life." Amanda contributed.  " For a formalization of a 

bonding arranged when the couple were children, it would be

 white, but for adults who chose each other, only green will do."

     "Since Harb Tanzer he will  be able to come up with

a suitable Vulcan holoscene for background, we should see what we

can do about a suitable gown,"  Uhura decided.

     Heather nodded her, "We've got ourselves a job."



     "I assume your bonding with Saavik resolves the issue of your

 future career direction".

     "Yes father, it does.  I have been trying to choose between

the Academy of Sciences teaching and research position I've been

offered, and a diplomatic post.  I find both possibilities

attractive.  But with Saavik in Starfleet, and us both wanting our

children raised on Vulcan, I will opt for the position at the Academy."

     "Most logical."

     "That, of course, does not preclude a diplomatic post at some

later time.  You have alternated the two careers successfully for

many years."

     "Indeed I have."



     "Bones, I'm happy for him but wasn't this awfully sudden?

Yesterday we were speculating about the possibility.  Today, it's

reality.  Tomorrow, they want to get married."

     "Sudden? They've known each other for 20 years since Saavik

was a child.  Saavik's clearly delighted; Spock's parents are

pleased; Spock himself  is more than bordering on the edge

of  displaying some rather human emotions.

     "Guess you're right.  And I'm pleased that they're

getting married on the Enterprise.  It will be the last

Enterprise wedding I'll perform.  What better one could there be?"

     "Harb and his people will put on an Enterprise wedding in our

best style."
    

     "Mr. Ambassador, there is someone I'd like you to meet."

     "Yes, Mr. Tanzer."

     "I'd like you to meet Moria.  Moria is a conscious computer,

 a noncorporial intelligence."

     "Greetings, Mr. Ambassador," a pleasant contralto voice spoke

from a location hard to pinpoint.

     "Greeting, Moria."

     "Moria was the Enterprise's holograph and games computer

before she achieved consciousness," Harb Tanzer explained.  "And

she still functions in that capacity although her duties have

expanded.  She can work with you to select an appropriate setting

for the bonding, and appropriate music as well."

     "I look forward to working with you, Moria."

     

     "Scotty, Nyota and I haven't been able to come up with a gown

for Saavik that will do.  But I'm thinking that with a bit of

tinkering, I might be able to get the clothing synthesizer to come

up with something."

     "It's a long way between duty uniforms, gym wear, and such

and wedding gowns, Heather me lass."

     "But I think I can do it."

     "It's a wee bit irregular," Scotty looked at Jim who was

standing next to him."

     "I didn't hear a thing," Jim looked at the air.

     "Give it your best go, and good luck."



     "Jim?"

     "What is it, Hikaru?"

     "You'll be needing someone to cover duty for Spock and Saavik

for the next three days, right?"

     "Sure.  Three days off for a shipboard honeymoon.   That's

the Starfleet tradition."

     "Pavel and I were talking.  Suppose I cover helm and

navigation, and Pavel fills in for Spock."

     "Sounds good.  See you on  the bridge at 0800."

    "I'll be there.  And another thing."

     "Yes."

     "Harb tells me he is running out of room in the VIP quarters.

 Since Saavik's  be moving in with Spock.  I can perhaps solve

 your space problem too."

     "Sure."



     Jim walked over to Spock and Saavik. "I guess I officially

should tell you that you've got the next three days off, courtesy

of Starfleet.  I won't call on you for anything short of a red alert."

     "We appreciate that, Jim."

     "And please," Saavik smiled, "No red alerts, Captain."

     "Not unless the Romulans show up or something.  This is

shaping up to be a milk run, although I still have a hunch the

Romulans could try to disrupt he peace in some way.

     "And Saavik, off duty, my name is Jim.  Spock and I have been

too close for too long for you to call me Captain off duty."

     "That's fine - Jim."

     "There is one favor you could do us, if you would."

     "Certainly, Spock."

     "We know of the ... festivities..that sometimes commence when

a newly married couple attempt to leave their wedding reception

and return to their quarters.  We don't want any such happening."

     "Understood.  I promise you a clean getaway.  I'll run the

operation myself.  And one other thing, forget making a Vulcan

philosophical statement for once and lock your door."

     "That had already occurred to us."

     "And, my best to both of you.  I really mean it.  I don't

know if there is something special I should say to my t'hy'la when

he takes a bondmate, but if there is, consider it said."

     Spock smiled, "Thank you."



     Spock turned to Saavik as Jim walked away, "That is the first

time that Jim has ever referred to me as t'hy'la in the presence

of anyone else."

     "Why?"

     "Probably for the same reason I've never referred to him as

such  either.  It's a very Vulcan thing, this t'hy'la, something

 more than friend or brother, and can be misunderstood.

     "True.  But now  you are about to become a bonded man,

and there is no room for misunderstanding.  Tomorrow

at this time, you'll be a bonded man."

     "And you a bonded woman.  I am thinking about it right now

and I am finding it difficult to wait."

     "Yes."

     "Never and always, Saavik.

     "Never and always, Spock."
 



Path: tivoli.tivoli.com!geraldo.cc.utexas.edu!cs.utexas.edu!howland.reston.ans.net!ix.netcom.com!netnews
From: gini@ix.netcom.com (Virginia Boehm)
Newsgroups: alt.startrek.creative
Subject: Repost - Mission of Honor, part 3 of 15
Date: 29 Mar 1995 17:32:15 GMT
Organization: Netcom
Lines: 1073
Distribution: world
Message-ID: <3lc5iv$60k@ixnews4.ix.netcom.com>
NNTP-Posting-Host: ix-tf1-24.ix.netcom.com
Xref: tivoli.tivoli.com alt.startrek.creative:7474

Star Trek is Paramount's.  Some of the characters are Diane Duane's . 
Three other
novelists, Margaret Wander Bonano, Mellissa Snodgrass, and Carolyn 
Cowles, should be
added to the list of people I've borrowed from. This is non-commercial 
fan fiction.  The
story is mine. Copyright, V.B. Worthen, 1995.

 

                             Chapter 3




       Standing next  to Spock facing the crowd,   Jim glanced

at his friend.  Spock seemed quite comfortable, almost relaxed, as if a 
matter

long unresolved had finally come to a satisfactory solution.

     Everyone who could possibly be spared from duty was present,

some in uniform, some in whatever off duty garb

struck their fancy.  The diplomatic contingent had turned out in

full numbers, even the two Klingons. 

      In the depths of interstellar space, Moria, in consultation

with Sarek, had created Vulcan.  It was sunset and the sky

was red and lavender and yellow.  There was a glow on the horizon

- T'Kuht would soon rise.

     The music began.  It was Vulcan too, and very ancient.

Far removed from the dissonant sounds Jim

remembered from the koon-ut-kal-if-fee, this music was soaring,

lilting, triumphant.  Bones and Nyota emerged, and stood next to

Spock.  Nyota wore something orange and amber that looked like a

flame and made her dark skin glow.

     The music swelled again as Saavik came in, escorted by Sarek.

 Heather's tinkering with  the clothing synthesizer had obviously paid 
off.

 The gown was green, the Vulcan color of life, and it shimmered with a 
life of

its own.  Saavik was stunning. 

           Jim began, "On hundreds of worlds in thousands of ways, men 
and women

unite for their mutual joy, and the continuance of their kind.

The Federation honors these diversities, and one of  my greatest 
pleasures

as a Starship Captain is to officiate at these unions.

     "Tonight, Spock and Saavik, both of Vulcan, stand here before

their shipmates to be joined together.  "Saavik," he turned to her

"Do you join with this man of your own free will and volition,

without coercion or intimidation of any kind?"

     "I do," Saavik said with a glance as Spock that said a great

deal more than the words could.

     "Spock, do you join with this woman of your own free will and

volition without coercion or intimidation of any kind."

     "Most certainly."

     "State to each other your expectations from this union."

     "I expect to be your wife, Spock, to share my life with you,

to give and receive total trust and confidence, to commit myself

to you and no other man, to multiply your joys, divide your

sorrows, and bear and raise our children in a bond that will

endure unbroken for as long as we live."

     "Saavik, I expect to be your husband, to share my life with

you, to give you my total trust and confidence and receive yours,

to commit myself to you and no other woman, to multiply your joys,

divide your sorrows, to father and raise our children in a bond

that will endure as long as we live."

     Jim paused as Uhura handed the ring to Saavik. "Spock, from this 
day forward, you

 are my husband and bondmate.  I will cherish and love you, trust

 you and be trustworthy, holding you always above all others in my

 esteem, giving you my first loyalty, placing your interests above

 my own, and giving all that is mine to you freely, even life

 itself.  I swear this in the presence of this company and in the

 presence of the All who is everywhere.  And in token of my

 pledge, I give you this ring".

     The look on Spock's face was all serenity and confidence as

he made his vows.  "Saavik, from this day forward you are my wife

and bondmate.  I will cherish you and love you, trust and be

worthy of trust, holding you always above all others in my esteem,

giving you my first loyalty, placing your interests above my own,

and giving all that is mine freely to you, even life itself.  I

swear this in the presence of this company, and in the presence of

the All who is everywhere.  I give you this ring in token of my

pledge."

     "By the authority granted me as a Starship Captain, I

pronounce Spock and Saavik husband and wife. Jim smiled "Live long

and prosper my friends."



     Jim moved to stand next to Spock, and the crowded room grew

even more attentive.  Many Federation marriage ceremonies had

been held aboard the Enterprise, but the Vulcan bonding was an

Enterprise first.

     Spock and Saavik turned to face each other.  Their right

hands moved to one another's faces.  They spoke the Vulcan words

slowly, in perfect unison, and to each other alone.

     "My mind to your mind.

     "My thoughts to your thoughts

     "My soul to your soul

     "Never and always

     "Touching and being touched."

     Jim could see Saavik's face clearly.  There was wonder, 

almost awe, a seeking-and-finding, a smile, and finally

 after what could have been seconds or minutes, a blinding

 total joy.  After a timeless time, they removed their hands from each 
other's faces.

     Jim assumed that they would end the bonding with the Vulcan two

finger embrace.  He was wrong - Spock kissed her, a serious kiss,

not a perfunctory peck, and when they did turn to face their

assembled shipmates, the expression on Spock's face was a match

for Saavik's.

     The assembly exploded with applause.



     "We didn't get that much of a hand the last time we saved the

galaxy," McCoy commented dryly.

     "Bones, we do that every other Tuesday.  But this, now this

was an occasion."

     "Think there is anybody here who still believes that horse

manure about Vulcan's not having emotions."

     "Probably.  Old ideas die hard.  Of course Vulcans have

emotions - violent ones. Just look at their history.  They came

closer than we did to blowing up their planet, and we came close

enough.  But Surak's followers mastered the art of controlling

their emotions, rather than being controlled by them.  When

appropriate, Vulcans can be very emotional. 

          "Did you know what they had chosen in the way of expectations

and vows - they really picked the heavy stuff - absolute trust,

lifelong commitment, placing each other first even if it costs

them their life.

     "There's a whole laundry-list to choose from in the

Federation ceremony book.  I figured they'd be on the restrained

side - mutual respect and regard, providing a good home for the

kids, that type of thing."

     Jim nodded. " I was surprised at first, then after I thought some 
more I wasn't."

     "Why?"

     "Have you ever known Spock to equivocate, to commit himself 

less than totally to anything he undertakes?"

     "I see what you mean.  Spock couldn't give less than his all

to his bonding any more than he could to anything else.  She's a

very fortunate woman, Jim.

     "And, in case you didn't notice, a very beautiful one as

well."

     "I noticed.  Think we could take advantage of old friendship

 and kiss the bride."

     "Lead the way."



     Uhura worked here way in the general direction of both the

bar and Heather McConel.  Scotty's red-haired second  was wearing 
electric

blue shot with silver, and the gown clung to her in a way that

showed off her natural assets, which were considerable.  She's

trolling with heavy bait, tonight, Uhura grinned.

     Nyota picked up a glass of champagne and took one for her

 friend as well.  "McConel, you owe me money," Uhura laughed.

     The Engineer turned towards her and took the champagne.  "You

and a lot of other people.  I was giving five to one odds that he

wouldn't kiss her, and did I ever lose.

     "Nyota, how did she do it.  For years, half the women on this

ship have been trying to figure out how to knock Spock's feet out

from under him, just for a night, then Saavik comes back to the

ship and  gets him to commit for life.  What did she

say?  What did she do?"

     "We'll probably never know."

     "After they come back on the duty rooster, we'll have to have

one of our little get togethers and make her Tell All."

     "We can try, but I'll bet you she won't."

     " How much?.... No, it's no bet.  After the loss I took tonight,

 I'm through betting for the mission."


     Sulu and Chekov were systematically casing the room. "Lots of

new faces on the ship since my day," Sulu remarked nodding in the

general direction of a group of Ensigns and Lieutenant j.g.'s,

bunched together, not comfortable enough on the Enterprise to

mingle easily with the ship's almost legendary senior officers.

     "And some of them are very nice faces indeed, Hikaru." Chekov

agreed.

     "Do you suppose we could cut a couple out of the pack and

become better acquainted.  I'm thinking the brunette in the red

dress..."

     "The tight red dress..."  Pavel nodded.  "That's Lieutenant Taylor.

 She's very nice, but her  friend next to her, Tina Gavick is even

nicer, and she's Russian too."

     "Don't you believe in diversity, Pavel?"

     "She's female, I'm male.  That's sufficient diversity for me."


     The sound of a bagpipe warming up cut thorough a babel of

conversations - the Enterprise's distinctly informal band was

about to play.  "Duty calls," Kirk said to McCoy and went to stand next

to the band.  He nodded to Uhura and the band produced a fanfare

that got the crowd's attention.

     "Gentlebeings," Kirk raised his glass, "I would like to

propose a toast:  To Spock and Saavik, may they live long and

prosper.  May their happiness be great, their sorrows few."

     Shouts  filled the chamber and glasses were lifted and

drained.  After the shouts had died down glasses refilled, Spock spoke,

"Saavik and I would like to propose a toast, to the Starship

Enterprise, to her many adventures, to those that we've served

with and come to know as our friends."

     The band crashed into "Enterprise Starship" and four hundred

voices sang along:

     "Enterprise, Starship

     The places you've been to!

     The things that you've shown us,

     The stories you'd tell.

     Enterprise, Starship

     We sing to your spirit,

     The beings who've served you

     So long and so well..."



     There were other toasts, many of them - to the Federation, to

Sarek and Amanda, to Kirk, to the Excelsior in Sulu's honor, to

Vulcan, to several other Federation worlds, and even in a true

spirit of peace, or more likely truly under the influence of

spirits, a toast to the Klingon Empire.

    

     Jim watched as the event began to turn into one of the

parties that were almost as much a source of the Enterprise's fame

as her missions were, then headed for the bridge.  They were due

to rendezvous with the Klingon ship and he should pay his respects

to his old friend/enemy Kor.

          "Lieutenant,"  he spoke to the Communications officer on the

evening shift, "Contact the Klingon vessel Conquestor."

     "Aye, Captain," and after a moment, "I have them. Commander

Kor wants to speak to you."

     "Put him on the screen, Lieutenant."

     Kirk looked at the familiar face that appeared on the screen.

It had been a number of years since their last meeting.  Kor had

aged, but the face was still that of the warrior Kirk knew.

"Greetings, Kor.  You look well."

     "No I don't, Kirk.  I look terrible.  I was peacefully sinking into

 the dotage of retirement and I got called back to serve the Empire

 one more time, on this so called Mission of Honor."

     "This is my last mission too, Kor," Jim responded.  "It's

been many years since our first meeting on Organia."

     "Ah, yes, those were the times before those glow-worms

interfered.  You were so resourceful, such a worthy adversary.

The way you blew up my munitions, inspired, so Klingon."

     "And the way you would have executed my first officer and me

would have been equally inspired, of course.  As I recall, you

planned to dissect him and kill me or worse with that mind sifter."

     "Naturally. I did not want to do it, but it would have been

necessary under the circumstances.  But along came those glow

worms, those Organians and stopped our conflict.

     "Then, when we met again in orbit around the Singer's world,

once more it was not written that we were to fight.  I guess the

gods have ordained that we not meet in battle this side of the

Black Fleet."

     "And now the Organians  specified us in particular

to go to Organia  to transport those who will sign the

accord between the Empire and the Federation."  Jim smiled.  He

rather liked Kor to the extent that he could actually like a

Klingon.  The crusty old warrior was an honest enemy, and when he

gave his word, a reliable if temporary ally."

     "Do you think it is possible for energy beings to have a

sense of humor, to chose us of all people to be the emissaries of

peace."

     "I think it's more along the lines of 'I told you so'" Kirk

opined.  "Remember, they told us that some day we would

voluntarily seek lasting peace between our peoples and become fast

friends and we scoffed at them."

     "Yes.  I remember.  Those blobs of energy simply want to have

the last word.  But whatever was long ago is long ago.  Listen to

 us - we sound like two old warriors exchanging memories in the

 tavern, drinking away our idle lives.

     "Speaking of drinking, and of eating, Kirk, I would like to

invite you and your senior officers to come to my ship for dinner

tomorrow at 1900."

     "Accepted.  We'll be there." 

     "I will look forward to seeing you then, and to seeing your

first officer.  Does the Vulcan still serve aboard your ship?"

     "Yes, but he won't be there tomorrow.  He was married this

evening and it is Starfleet custom that a newly married couple be

taken off the duty roster for a few days."

     "We have a similar custom.  Did he take a Vulcan as consort?"

     "He's only half Vulcan.  His mother is human.  And his bride

 is half Vulcan and half Romulan."

     "Vulcan cunning, human courage, and Romulan fire," Kor mused,

"Their children will be formidable indeed.  Extend my best

wishes."

     "I'll do that.  Until tomorrow, then Kor."

     "Until tomorrow., Kor out "

      "Lieutenant, can you put Rec One on

the screen. I want to see how the party is progressing."

     It was progressing well.  The band had exhausted its limited

repertoire.  There was taped music for dancing.  McCoy was dancing

with Amanda, and he noted Chekov with Lieutenant Gavick. Scotty

 was dancing with the bride, surprisingly light on his feet considering 
his bulk.

     Another group was gathered around Uhura.  She was singing and

Sarek was accompanying her on the Vulcan harp. 

     Abruptly, Sarek put down his harp and walked away.  Kirk watched as

 Sarek walked over to the Klingon trade

delegates who, Jim had noted earlier, seemed to be getting as drunk

as possible as rapidly as possible.  He could faintly hear

something - it sounded like the Klingons were singing too.  Sarek

took one of them by the arm and Kirk made a decision.

     "Lieutenant, you have the conn until change of watch," Kirk

said in passing to the communications officer as he ran for the

turbolift.  He had seen Sarek angry before, and he could be

formidable.  Jim couldn't let some sort of diplomatic incident mar

Spock's wedding reception.

     By the time he got to there, whatever had seemed likely to

happen was over.  Spock was standing next to his father, speaking

earnestly to the Klingons, who nodded and drunkenly weaved their

way out into the corridor.

     "What happened, Spock, Sarek."

     "Those two began to sing a Klingon song.  To have such a song

sung at Spock's bonding was an insult.  I started to tell them so

 when my son intervened."

     "My father, it is clear that the two were thoroughly under

the influence of ethanol.  The insult was not deliberate. 

 No insult should be taken where none was intended."

     "You are correct, Spock."  Sarek turned to Kirk, "Captain, I

apologize."

     "Unnecessary, Sarek."

     Spock and Jim headed towards the edge of the dance floor.

"What can you tell me about the song that so upset your father."

     "I myself know very little Klingonese, but I understood part

of it.  It was quite crude, and not at all subtle.  Graphic

instructions to the groom."

     Kirk nodded, "I had assumed something along those lines.

Even for trade delegates from an agricultural colony those two are

intolerably ill mannered.  I'll have to keep a close eye on them.

I don't want a diplomatic incident aboard this ship.  Particularly

one involving Klingons."

     "Jim," said an insistent voice beside him, "This is supposed

to be a party and you look like you and Spock were talking

business."

     "We've concluded it," Jim smiled at Heather McConel.

     "Then don't just stand there.  Come dance with me."

     
     "'Operation Clean Getaway' is ready to go whenever we get the

word," Sulu whispered to Scotty in a merrily conspiratorial tone."

     "Aye laddie.  Ready to do my part."

     "Don't think it will be too much longer.  I'll let the

Captain know."


   
     McCoy looked at the dancers, "I think I'll go cut in on the

 Captain.  He's been dancing with Heather long enough."

     "I doubt she thinks its been long enough," Uhura smiled.  It

was quite clear who Heather's target for the night was.



     Spock caught his captain's eye as he left the dance floor.

They headed for a relatively quiet corner.

     "Time to execute 'Operation Clean Getaway'?" Jim smiled.

     "It is.  Saavik and Sulu are in place."

     Jim saw them near the exit, apparently deeply engrossed

 in conversation.  He looked at Uhura, nodded.

     Uhura who had been quietly strumming her guitar, playing

nothing in particular, suddenly began playing one of the ship's

favorites of the songs she'd written over the years:

     "Oh I'll sing you a song about Cyranno Jones

     "Redoubtable spacetrader he..."

     And people began to move towards her to join in the chorus,

     "Oh, the trouble with tribbles

     "The trouble with tribbles

     "They don't come in dibbles ... or dabs.

     "But in boxes and barrels...."

     Chekov passed Jim and Spock and moved into the corridor,

Gavick in tow.

     "Pavel found a way to improve on our plan," Jim grinned.

      Scotty left by the other door, nodding to Saavik and Sulu.

     A moment later, Sulu gave a barely perceptible nod to Spock.

     "Have a pleasant evening, Jim,"  Spock moved into the

corridor.

     "You too," Jim smiled.

     "Most assuredly."

     Jim watched Spock and Saavik dash for the turbolift car that

Scott had waiting for them.  They got in, the door closed, and the

car left as Scott opened the panel next to the lift and stopped

all service.

     And not a second too soon.  Twenty or thirty people poured

from the room, working their way past Jim and Sulu, only to be

stopped by Scotty at the turbolift.  "Sorry lads, lassies, there's

been a minor malfunction of the turbolifts on this level.  Not

serious.  I'll get it fixed in a couple of minutes.  What's the

rush?" Scotty said innocently.

     "To the tube!" someone in the group called out and they moved

in that direction, opened the entryway to the jefferies tube -

and found Pavel Chekov and Tina Gavick locked in a passionate

embrace, blocking the entry.

      The  laughing  group turned away, good natured in defeat.

     "'Operation Clean Getaway' successfully executed, Sir," Sulu

gave him a mock salute."

     "There will be commendations for all hands," Kirk grinned.



     Jim was hailed by Spock's parents as he returned to the

party.     "That was a very nice wedding.  The Enterprise does things

with a class all its own," Amanda complimented him.

     "I never thought that I'd get the chance to officiate at

Spock's wedding," Jim smiled.  "And I'm so glad I did."

     "Saavik is ideal for Spock.  It just took him time to realize

it," Amanda commented.  "And I'm rather looking forward to having

grandchildren who mix Romulan, Vulcan and Human traits.  They

should be interesting."

     "When I was talking to Commander Kor earlier he said that

children who combine Vulcan cunning, Human courage, and Romulan

fire, should be formidable indeed.  He had me convey his well-

wishes to Spock.

     "This is indeed a new age," Sarek noted, "when a Klingon

Commander wishes a Starfleet officer well."

     The intercom whistled.

     "Captain, Commander Kor wishes to speak to you again."

     "On my way.  Excuse me, Amanda, Sarek."



     "Ah Captain," Kor's tired face once more looked at him from

the screen.  Sorry to take you once more away from the party, but

I forgot to mention another matter - the

assorted charges the Klingon Empire had against you and others of

your officers have all been dropped in the interests of peace."

     "I knew the assassination charge I was convicted of recently

had been dropped.  Didn't know there were others."

     "Oh yes, you have been tried in absentia many times over the

years.  There were 17 convictions for capital crimes brought

against the Enterprise's officers.  Eight of them were yours."

     Jim shook his head, "And they called it the Peace of Organia!

What would have happened had we been at war?"

     "And yet, you and I never got to met in battle.  Defeating

James T. Kirk would have brought me much honor. 

     "There is peace now, Kor.  Relations between our people will

be in the hands of diplomats, not warriors."

     "Not necessarily a change for the better."

     "It can be if they are the right diplomats.  And hopefully

they will be and the peace will work.  Perhaps in the Black Fleet,

we'll be fighting side by side against a common enemy."

     "Perhaps.  There are still the Romulans."

     "I've been thinking about that.  This peace between us puts

them very much at a disadvantage."

     "Do you think they may try in some way to interrupt our

mission?"

     "The thought has occurred to me."

     " Perhaps we will have trouble with the Romulans. I would 

rather enjoy one more battle."

     "There's a human proverb that states 'Be careful what you ask

for. You may get it.' See you at dinner tomorrow.  Kirk out."



     Heather had said something about a party down in Engineering,

 Jim recalled. 

     He heard it before he got to the Engineering lounge.  Scotty,

a very inebriated Scotty, was telling one of his favorite tales.

     "Twas my first posting to the Enterprise and me a new j.g.

Brought a recipe with me, hopin' to make an impression on those

interested in such things by teachin' them what good hootch was."

     Jim quietly stepped into the room, and was not surprised to

find Heather, obviously waiting for him, handing him a glass.

     "So my roomie and me, we went into business, found a nice

place to hide our rig so it looked like a part of the mixing

chamber."

     "You had to hide it?  On the Enterprise?

     "Rememmer," Scotty slurred, "I'ma talking about Captain

Pike's Enterprise, where the Chief Engineer had to pretend there

was no engine room hootch be'in brewed."

     "Not like this one," Kirk raised his glass, "Where the

Captain even drinks it."

     "I dunno whether Captain Pike drank it or not, but Number One

did.  An a good thing too as the matter werra."

     "So what happened?" asked a very new member of the

Engineering crew.  The old hands had heard the story before.

     "We brewed up the best batch of hootch ever seen on a

Starship.  Not even yours, Heather me lass, coulda equal it.  Got

so many order, my partner and I, that we couldna keep up.

     "But then, there started to be trouble - people who hadna had

that much showin up toxicated on duty.  Number One had Doc Boyce

analyze the hootch.

     "They could na believe what they found.  Gamma rays.

Checked, and sure enough, there was a dilithium crystal just

startin to crack.  If they hadna caught it, could have been the

end of the Enterprise."

     "So Engine room hootch saved the Enterprise?" the new

crewmember said incredulously."

     "If you donna believe me, ask Mr. Spock.  He was posted to

the Enterprise same time I was.  Only donna ask him tonight. He's

busy."

     Heather grinned at Jim, "I bet he's busy.  Saavik told me

once that Romulan women were said to be insatiable."

     Jim took a sip of the hootch and changed the subject, "What

do you put in this stuff if it's not gamma rays.  I think in a

pinch you could use it as a substitute for antimatter."

     "Aye," Scotty chimed in, "At least, it'sa nilating me."

     Jim took advantage of the laughter that followed to edge his

way out the door.



     "You are pleased, my wife," Sarek queried when they returned

to their quarters.

     "I'm absolutely delighted.  I knew, or I thought I knew, that

this was what Spock wanted, but I couldn't be completely certain."

     "So it turned out to be one of those situations where logic,

inclination, and the demand of pon farr all lead towards the same

action.  Very well done, well done indeed," Sarek complimented.

     "But having Spock bonded at last makes me feel old.  Now I

 know he doesn't need me any more."

     "But I do, as I always will, Amanda, beloved."



     The party was winding down. There were still a few hard core

drinkers;  and Uhura sat quietly, strumming her guitar and singing to 
herself.

     Leonard McCoy listened, recognized the tune, walked over to

where she sat.  "Beyond Antares' is too sad a song for a wedding,

Nyota."

     "I was just sitting here, thinking of all the years, all the

good times, all the friends, and got a little blue knowing that

this mission is the last for me, and for the ship."

     "The last for me, too, and for Scotty, Jim and for Spock.

But we'll keep in touch, Nyota."

     "Of course.  But, without the Enterprise it won't

be the same.  Guess all of us - except Spock - have a bit of the

case of the retirement blues tonight."

    "I'm happpy for Spock.  I think it's a very good match."

     "So do I.  Of course, Spock will tell us its simply logical."

     "I was watching them this evening.  There's a great deal more

there than just logic.  Did you see the way they looked at each

other?"

     "I did.  But I'm glad I'm not Vulcan.  It must get tiresome

trying to rationalize one's emotions.  I'll take my human feelings

any time."

     "So will I."

     "Nightcap?  The Saurian Ambassador came aboard with cases and

cases of brandy and Jim gave me a couple of bottles."

     "Of course.  Can't let you drink alone."



      Only Harb and a few of his people  were still in Rec One.

     "Seen Bones, Harb?" Jim asked.

     "Left a few minutes ago, Captain."

     "Alone?"

     "No." 

     "I see. You put on a good party, tonight, Harb.  Everyone's

 calling it one of the Enterprise's best."

     "Thank you, Sir.  An occasion like this - Mr. Spock getting

married on the ship.  And he looked happy."

     "Yes, he did.  Well good night, Harb."


     The firepot's glow was the only light in the cabin on

Deck 5.  "The Ancients called this time the Rapture," Spock

thought/spoke, to his bondmate.

     "They were right."

     He turned his head and kissed her.  She nuzzled his shoulder.

"They called it the Rapture, so much more descriptive than pon

farr.  Saavik, I never knew there could be such joy!"

     "Nor did I.  Yet many Vulcans are said to dread this time."

     "I once did but now find my former attitude most illogical,"

Spock replied, running his hands through the dark hair spilled on

the pillow so close to him. "For us, my wife, it will always be

the Rapture.  Saavik..."

     "Yes..."

     They turned again to each other, joined mind and body,

thinking each others thoughts, seeing through each other's eyes,

feeling with each other's skins, caught up in the total joining of

bondmates at the time of Rapture, and many minutes passed without

words.


     Across the ship in another cabin on Deck 5, Jim Kirk poured

himself another Saurian brandy and stared at the wall.
 


Path: tivoli.tivoli.com!geraldo.cc.utexas.edu!cs.utexas.edu!howland.reston.ans.net!ix.netcom.com!netnews
From: gini@ix.netcom.com (Virginia Boehm)
Newsgroups: alt.startrek.creative
Subject: Repost - Mission of Honor, part 4 of 15
Date: 29 Mar 1995 21:41:55 GMT
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Paramount holds all Star Trek rights, of course, and no infringement is 
intended on those
rights or those of various Star Trek novelists whose characters I've 
borrowed.  Story
copyright by V.B. Worthen, 1995.


                             Chapter 4




     It was quiet on the bridge.  Might as well handle the

administrative work that Spock and Saavik's marriage had created,

Jim decided.  There was the wedding certificate to complete and

have witnessed.  Spock and Saavik had both re-done their wills and

those needed to be witnessed.  Changes to their personnel records

had to be made.  "Uhura, call Dr.  McCoy and  ask him to meet me

in the briefing room.  And plan on getting somebody to cover for

you for a few minutes.  Need your thumb print on Spock and

Saavik's marriage certificate.  Come down in about ten minutes."

     "Dr McCoy's on his way and I'll be there in 10 minutes," she

acknowledged.

     "Mr. Chekov, you have the conn," he left the bridge.

     "Bones we've got wills to witness," Jim said as he entered

the briefing room. "  Kirk called up Spock's will on the screen

and placed his thumb on the screen on  'witnessed  by'.

     "What the..."

     "Uh oh..."

     "Bones, what the hell is going on?"  Kirk pointed to the

screen.  The computer had recognized the thumb print, but what

had printed on the screen was "Admiral James T. Kirk, Captain of

the USS Enterprise, NCC 1701-A."

     "Now stay calm, Jim."

     "Calm.  Is this some sort of a joke or did Nogura pull a fast

one on me?   And what do you know about it?"

     "Since you are going to be signing the treaty as the

representative of Starfleet Nogura felt that you ..."

     "And he didn't have the guts to tell me.  He can't

do this, promote somebody without their knowledge or consent."

     "He did.  Got the Council's approval too.

 He dumped the task of telling you before we got to Organia on me.

I've got admiral's rank insignia to give you as well."

     "Did you, of all people, approve of this?"

     "Nogura didn't ask for my approval.  He told me after the

fact.  Of course, I didn't approve it.  When they pressured you

into taking promotion the last time against my recommendation I

was angry enough to resign my commission.  But in this case, it

does make a certain amount of sense.  The Klingons are going to

have a General sign for the Imperial Fleet, so in the interest of

keeping things even, we should have an Admiral."

     Jim thought for a minute.  "I guess it does make sense.  The

the Organians more or less ordered me to attend, 

and everyone else at Headquarters is still digging out from under

the mess Cartwright created.

     "Let's get on with it.  I'll talk to Nogura later."

     

     "Admiral, that was a lousy trick you played on me."  Jim said

without preamble when Nogura's face appeared on the screen.  He

steamed through the subspace delay, about 10 seconds at that

distance.

     "So, you found out about your stealth promotion.  McCoy told

you so soon?  I thought he'd wait until the last minute."

     "The computer told me.  Spock and Saavik both changed 

their wills to reflect their marriage."

     Jim could see, by the surprised look on Nogura's face, when

his message was received.  Let him surprise Nogura, now.  He had

one coming.

     "Married - Spock, and to Lieutenant Commander Saavik!  How

extraordinary, but it makes sense."

     "As Spock would say, it seems logical.  Heihachiro, I

understand your thinking on this Admiral business - it would be

diplomatically bad for us not to have an Admiral sign for

Starfleet.  The Klingons would probably be insulted.  I even

understand why it has to be me.

     "So I'll be good and play Admiral Kirk on Organia, but I'll

reserve the right to toss anybody who calls me Admiral on my own

ship in the brig.  I'm Captain here."

     "You're being very reasonable about this Jim - Captain.  So

reasonable that you might as well comes straight out with your

next sentence, the one that will start 'Providing that..."

     "Providing that...," Jim grinned.  He and Nogura knew each

other well, and all their verbal sparing over the years did not

disguise the fact that this was the officer Jim Kirk respected above

all others in Starfleet.  "..once the Enterprise breaks orbit and

leaves Organia, this temporary promotion is rescinded, and I

retire as Captain Kirk."

     "Are you sure you really want to do that?  Being Admiral Kirk

when you retire raises your pension, you know."

     "To hell with my pension, I'm thinking about my self-respect.

I can't retire that way.  Not after all the trouble I went through to be 
reduced

back to Captain's rank last time - sabotage, stealing a starship,

stuff like that."

      "If that's what you want, that's what you'll have.  And Jim,

I really should have told you myself before you left.  It was cowardly

 to leave it up to McCoy.  I truly appreciate  your going along with 
this.

  Remember, I owe you one."

     "I'll remember, and on that other matter, if you could find

time to make one reluctant Admiral, is it too hard to cut a

captain's commission for a guy who's waited too long already?  I

really want that done before the mission is over .  You know why."

     "I'll find time to get to it.  Nogura out."

     Jim stared at the empty screen in the briefing room.  Nogura

owed him one, and in fact over the years Nogura owed him quite a

few.  He'd find a way to call in those debts some day.

     But no sense brooding over this business.  He had a Starship

to run.  A brief call at Starbase 12 to pick up more diplomats,

and then tonight, dinner on Kor's ship.  He hoped it would be 

better this time.  At least there would be no Romulan Ale.

     
        "This is much more pleasant than the last time I was aboard a

Klingon ship," Jim said later.  He and Kor were in

Kor's quarters on the Conquestor.  "I made the voyage in the

brig,"  Kirk explained.

     "There are very few amenities in the brig of a ship of the

 Imperial Fleet," Kor nodded.  "Even this," he gestured around his

 quarters, "must seem very sparse to you.  We regard the luxury

 aboard Federation Starships as somewhat decedent, but at my age I

 am beginning to appreciate decadence."

     Kor's quarters were about the size of a Junior Officer's

cabin on the Enterprise.  Kor, having been called out of

retirement for this one voyage only, had done little to

personalize them, with one exception.

     "There is nothing in my quarters on the Enterprise that can

equal this," Jim said admiringly, picking up a piece from Kor's

klin zha set.  The pieces were individually hand carved in semi-

precious stone, of various shades of green and gold.  "On the

Enterprise, we play your game with very utilitarian pieces in

Federation red and silver.  Your klin zha set is a work of art."

     "Yes.  It has been in my family for eight generations, but I

have no living children to pass it on to.  My son was killed in

battle with a Federation ship."

     "And mine was killed by a Klingon."

     "Yes, I know.  Ah, Kirk, maybe this peace is right for our

 people.  Maybe it is time for the fighting to end so that no more

 sons are killed.  But where do we fit in, you and I?  I know this

 peace is necessary for my people yet  I cannot see a

 role for me  in this new galaxy we are  creating, Empire and 
Federation."

     "The same question has been troubling me.  I am retiring

after this mission.  While I'm no longer young, I am in good

health and can look forward to many more years.  But what do I do

with these years?"

     Kor sighed and poured Jim another Saurian brandy, and another

for himself from the bottle Jim had brought him .  "Two

aging warriors, you and I.  We'll adjust to peace, but may never

be happy with it."

     "Even though we know the horrors of war."

     "And it has cost us both our sons."

     "Yet you and I survived, Kor.  There has to be a reason.

I've been so near death too many times for my survival to have

been without purpose.  There is something that I am still meant to

do.  I feel that, but I don't know what it is."

     "If the gods have plans for us still, they will unfold in the

fullness of time.

     After a long pause, Kor continued.

     "First, we must complete this mission." Kor looked around the

room as if expecting to find someone hiding in the shadows.  "You

know of course how it is on a ship of the Fleet."

     "There are observers and the observers have observers.  It

was you who first told me that, many years ago."

     "That is right.  But even though I know my words are probably

being overheard, I would speak freely to you."

     Kirk nodded. "Understood.  Speak."

     "I have good reason to think that my First Officer,

Subcommander Klea, is inciting my crew to mutiny.  I hear

mutterings:  How can we, as honorable Klingons, cruise side by

side with the hated Enterprise and the notorious Kirk.  It would

be so easy, these mutterings say, to open fire on the Enterprise,

and with one well placed shot send the Enterprise and those aboard

her to the Black Fleet."

     Jim nodded, "It would be easy, but you would never permit it

to happen.  We will continue as we are."

     "Yes we will.  And I will not permit this mutiny to happen -

I hope we are being overheard - I will not break my word which I

gave to the Empire.  This is a mission of peace."

     Jim thought.  Kor's words placed his life in great jeopardy.

Speaking had taken great courage.  The Klingon's

stature in Kirk's eyes, already quite high, went up another notch.

How could he express this to Kor, knowing that his words also were

probably being overheard?  There was only one way - this must be

made a matter of honor in the Klingon sense.

     " This mission will continue to be one of peace.  I mark your words

 well, Kor, and if need be, I will act on them.

     "I also hope we are being overheard.  If so, take warning - a

mutiny against Kor is a hostile act against me personally.  I

would regard it as an insult to my honor, as I trust Kor and

regard him as my friend."

     Kor smiled, the genuine Klingon smile, not the grimace

exhibited during battle.  "But enough talk of grim possibilities.

Our mission will be peaceably completed and we'll be once more on

Organia."

     "Where I have to sign the treaty.  Do you know what Starfleet

Command did to me?"  Jim knew Kor would understand.

     Kor nodded. "I can guess.  All the Imperial Fleet high

 command is trying to make sure there are no

more traitorous General Changs, so I am also to sign the treaty as

the representative of the Imperial Fleet.  It is a matter of rank, is

it not?  It happened to me, as well."

     Klingon and Human looked long at each other and the laughter

was full and unrestrained.  Kirk spoke first, "Tell you what, I

won't call you General if you don't call me Admiral!"

     Kor roared and clapped Jim hard on the shoulder.  "You have

as you humans say, a deal.  It will be Kirk and Kor, or Captain

and Commander if we have to be so formal.  You understand these

things, Kirk."

     "As do you."

     "Let us talk again.  The only one on this ship that I can

trust without question is my surgeon.  We served together many

years.  But I trust you, Kirk.  You are a Federation human, but

you have honor and are my friend."

      "And I return your trust, and your friendship. Yah, Kor."

      "Yah, Kirk."



     "Got a few minutes, Bones?"

     "Sure, come on in. Business or social?"

     "Some of both, I think"

     McCoy waved Jim in the general direction of a chair and

 reached for the brandy bottle.  "So, what can this old country doctor

 do for you today?"

     Jim tried to smile, "You can cheer me up.  I'm depressed as

hell."

     McCoy nodded, "Thought you'd been on the quiet side the last

couple of days.  Want to talk about it - of course you do or you

wouldn't be here.  Retirement blues?  Nogura?"

     "Maybe some retirement blues, and as for Nogura, I can see

his reasoning this time.  And I think I came to terms with

retirement on what I thought was our last mission - after I

realized we'd survive it."

     McCoy shivered with the memory, "I sure didn't think we'd get

off Rura Penthe alive.  Horrible place, that."

     "It was."

     " I was positive I was going to die there, 

but you kept insisting that I not give up.  And you were right. We

made it."

     "Thanks to Spock.  He saved our lives - again."

     "As you've saved his, many times.  You damn near sacrificed

your career to get him off the genesis planet and get him put back

together."

     "I got by with the help of my friends," Jim nearly smiled but

then said quietly, "But my son wasn't so lucky."

     "You're brooding about David again.  From what Saavik told

us, he died saving her life, and Spock's."

     "And now she's married to Spock. Ironic isn't it?"

     McCoy nodded, "I thought you'd get around to it sooner or

later - Spock's wedding got you down.  Fess up Jim."

     Jim grinned ruefully, "Yes, it did. You're a pretty good

 shrink for a surgeon, Bones.  So why?  Hell, I'm happy for him.

  Because of his crazy Vulcan biology, being a life long bachelor isn't 
really

an option for him, and Saavik's an excellent match."

     "It's quite logical," McCoy deadpanned, raising an eyebrow in

a very familiar gesture."

     Jim had to laugh, but quickly grew serious again. "I am happy

for him, but I'm still depressed.  It doesn't make sense.  Bones,

Spock had  to get married.  He couldn't go through the rest of his

life ad hocking his way through pon farrs.

   "You never  had any romantic interest in Saavik did you?"

     "Never.  She's much too young for me - my son's age."

     "Don't start that again.  OK - you're pleased for Spock; you

 don't covet his bride, but his marriage depressed you anyway.

 Why?"

     Jim thought for a long silence, sipped his brandy, thought

some more.  "Bones," he finally broke the silence, "In a way I

think I do envy Spock - not for getting married. I could do that -

maybe will.  Carol wouldn't have to twist my arm very hard to get

me to say yes."

     "But you're not about to ask her, I take it."

     "I don't know, but that's not what's bothering me."

     "Then what is."

     "What I envy Spock for is the certainty of it all.  He never

doubts.  It was a good time for him to marry; Saavik and he have

known each other since she was a child; they clearly care for each

other; his parents obviously agreed with his choice.  So he did

it.  He'll never look back; he'll never regret it.  

Spock decided will never  think 'if only' or 'what if I had'.

 He doesn't have these human uncertainties."

     McCoy nodded. "As near as I can tell, you're right - he doesn't."

     "Bones, I left the party after Spock and Saavik left to talk

 to Kor again.  After that, I expected to find a pleasant companion 

and spend some time with her.  But suddenly, I just wasn't in the mood.

     "Wandered down to Engineering and almost got pulled in to a

party Heather McConel was having down there.  But that wasn't what I 
wanted.

     "So I came back.  The party was breaking up, and I thought

I'd just have a drink with you, then call it a night.  But Harb

told me you'd just left with someone.  I wanted to talk to

somebody, just talk, and there wasn't anybody around I could talk

to.  Scotty was at the Engineering party and

too deep in hootch to make coherent conversation.  I didn't see

Nyota around.  Pavel and Hikaru had found companions.  Here

I am, Captain of this famous starship, alleged galactic hero.."

     "And a very lonely man." McCoy said quietly.

     Jim nodded.  There it was, facing him; he couldn't run from

it.  "And lonely men think sad thoughts.  Bones, I know it's time

to retire.  After all, I chose to.  Starfleet didn't twist my arm.

It's probably also time to marry Carol and finally settle down.  I

know what I should stop doing - trying to do a job that I will

soon become too old to do well, if I haven't already, and chasing

women, which I'm also getting too old to do.  But, I don't have

the slightest idea what I should start doing instead.

     "That's what's depressing me, Bones, the uncertainty.  There

are a lot of times I've been uncertain, but I've been faced with

the necessity to take action, so I have - a Starship Captain

simply cannot appear indecisive.  That's the first thing taught in

Command School - the Captain can be right, the Captain can be

wrong, but the Captain must decide.

     "I've learned to act certain even when I'm not, so well that

having to face my own uncertainty depresses me badly."

     "Well, Jim. At least now you know what the problem is.

Now, instead of being depressed, you're seeking a solution to

 a specific question - what does Jim Kirk do next."

     "Do you think I'll find an answer?"

     "I'm sure you will.  But not if you dither about it.  Let

 your subconscious work on the problem.  It probably already is.

 One of these days, it will come to you - you'll know what you

 want to do and set out to get it, the same determined way Jim

 Kirk always has."

     "You think that's what will happen?"

     "I do.  Trust me - I'm the doctor - and back off a little for

 now.  Relax, have another brandy.  How about a game of chess?"

     Jim nodded, but stopped the doctor as he reached for the

chess set.  "Lets play in Rec One.  The crew should see me there.

     "I know why Starfleet gave me this mission.  They didn't need 

the Enterprise to get the diplomats to 

Organia.  It was a gesture from Starfleet - let's let Jim Kirk and

the Enterprise go out one more time in recognition of

past accomplishments.  It's almost a party cruise.  Damn milk run

- Kor's right when he says that he and I just aren't cut out for

this sort of thing.  No wonder I got in a blue funk."



     Attention in Rec One was centered around the main games tank.

Chekov and Sulu were engaged in mock combat.

     Kirk and McCoy moved forward to watch.  Sulu was fighting a

Romulan Bird of Prey against Chekov's Klingon Scout.  The two

small ships were very well matched, and so were their commanders.

They were maneuvering their crafts in ways their designers had

probably never considered possible.  Computer generated photon

torpedoes and phaser beams were flying thick and fast, but

extremely talented evasive action prolonged the battle.

     "Watching those two is like watching a ballet," McCoy commented.

     Jim nodded.  Watching two of the best marksmen in the

Federation in action was an experience.  He wished real battles

were as clean.  Jim both did and did not take pleasure from

battles, and the ambiguity in his nature between the warrior and

the explorer/diplomat was one he'd long since come to accept.  But

he could wholeheartedly enjoy this mock combat.

     "There," Chekov called out as a photon torpedo hit its

target, "Knocked out your warp engines"

     "I'm hurt, Pavel, but you're dead! Yah," Sulu bragged as a

well placed shot hit Chekov's vessel squarely, and the computer

signaled  a gigantic flash indicating an antimatter explosion.

     "OK, Hikaru, how did you do it," Chekov grinned,  "That

photon torpedo came out of nowhere."

     "Simple, I saw your shot coming at me, knew I couldn't avoid

it entirely, so I positioned my vessel so that the recoil from

your shot would take me  where I wanted to be to get my own off."

     "Well done, both of you," Jim smiled. 

     He and the Doctor moved to their chess board.  They had just begun

 and Jim was trying to figure out McCoy's even less orthodox 

than usual opening moves when the Klingon trade delegates entered the 
room. 

     There had been no further incident involving the Klingons

since Spock's wedding, but Kirk was uneasy about them and felt

that they somehow represented a threat to his ship.  He tried to

tell himself that he was imagining things, but following his hunches

 had kept Jim Kirk and his ship

alive too many times for him to ignore them now.

     "Back in a minute, Bones," he said quietly and moved to the

nearest intercom.  "Security," he said very softly, "Send a detail

to Rec One.  Preventative action may be needed."

     "Aye Sir," Snarl growled, "On our way ."

     He returned to the chess game, preoccupied, convinced that

trouble would develop, waiting for it.

     The wait was not long.  Two crewmembers were playing klin

zha, the Klingon equivalent of chess having recently become

something of a fad on Starfleet ships, and the Klingons wandered

in that direction.  They watched in silence for a few minutes,

then one turned to the other, said something in Klingonese and

laughed aloud.  His companion joined in.

     "Am I that bad at your game," one of the players said  amiably.

     "Obviously, the subtleties of klin zha are beyond human

 capacity." the Klingon said gruffly.

     "Then take my place.  Show me how it's done."  The crewmember

stood, bowed with only a hint of sarcasm, and held out the chair

for the Klingon.

     By now, most eyes were on the klin zha  game and its players,

but Jim's weren't.  He was relieved to see Snarl and two of her 

people enter and wait alertly.

     The Klingon took the offered seat.  The other crewmember took

his next move, and captured one of the Klingon's pieces.

Infuriated, the Klingon picked up the offending piece and threw it

at his opponent.

     Jim and several others moved fast at that point, but

Snnanagfashtalli moved fastest.  On two feet, the felinoid was one

of the fastest people on the ship, and on all fours, she was a

blurred streak.   She placed her 250 pounds of angry feline

between the Klingon and the crewmember, turned to the Klingon and

growled, "Go ahead.  Throw one at me."

     The Klingon stared at the Security Chief, then turned and

stalked out.  His companion followed.  Assorted boos and catcalls

followed the Klingons into the corridor.

     "Well done," Kirk complemented her. "That could have turned

into a major brawl."

     "Captain," Snarl said in her normal tone of voice, "What are

you going to do about those two.  My professional recommendation

is that they spend the rest of the trip in the brig, or at least

under guard in their own quarters.  If they remain at liberty they

will start a fight.  They seem to want to.  First at Spock and

Saavik's wedding and now here."

     "I think you're right, Snarl, they do want to start a fight.

I intend to find out why. If I lock them up, I probably won't."

     "As you wish, Captain.  But do you mind if my people keep a

discrete eye on them."

     "Please do."

     Kirk returned to the chess game and McCoy beat him swiftly

and ingloriously.  He declined the offer of a rematch. "But I'll take 
you

 up on your earlier offer of  another drink."



     "Bones," he asked a few minutes later in the Doctor's

quarters, brandy glass in hand.  "What in the hell are they up to?

Snarl's right - they are deliberately out to cause trouble.  Why?

It doesn't make sense."

     "I haven't a clue."

     "And I need one badly. I don't like it when things start

happening aboard my ship that make no sense.  There is

some sort of a puzzle here - something that eludes me."

     "If the Klingons are a piece of that puzzle, there are others?"

     Kirk nodded. "I think so.  Something is afoot on this voyage

that gives me that uneasy feeling in the gut.  I've got

misbehaving Klingons here, and Kor is grousing to me about

mutterings on the Conquestor."

     "Oh? What kind of mutterings?"

     "Hard liners.  He thinks there could be a mutiny.  People are

muttering that if Kor were in fact the warrior he claims to be, he

wouldn't just cruise peacefully beside the Empire's most hated

Starship and her equally detested Captain."

     "But respected too.  You can deal with Klingons.  You deal

from strength and that they understand.  I hope the Federation

finds someone who can deal with them the same way as our new

ambassador."

     "Right now, I'm more concerned with how to deal with the

Klingons on my own ship.  All I can think of is to wait and see

what they try next.  I'm sure they'll try something."

     "So am I.  Spock will be back on duty tomorrow.  Maybe he can

see something in this situation that eludes us."

     "I hope so, Bones, I hope so."
 



Path: tivoli.tivoli.com!geraldo.cc.utexas.edu!cs.utexas.edu!howland.reston.ans.net!ix.netcom.com!netnews
From: gini@ix.netcom.com (Virginia Boehm)
Newsgroups: alt.startrek.creative
Subject: Repost - Mission of Honor, part 5 of 15
Date: 30 Mar 1995 00:54:27 GMT
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Star Trek belongs to Paramount
Story copyright by V.B. Worthen, 1995


                             Chapter 5



     Saavik stretched contentedly as she watched Spock came out of

the shower and reach for a fresh uniform.  She enjoyed the way he

moved, enjoyed the look of the lean, strong body, remembered the

touch of skin against skin...

     "I think your thoughts, my wife," he smiled. "and such

thoughts are not congruent with the fact we are due on the bridge

in less than half an hour."

     "28 minutes and 41 second, precisely," she said with a grin,

mirroring perfectly his tone when he was at his most pedantic.

     He tried not to smile.  Failed.  "Into the shower

with you, and into uniform.  Duty calls.  We'll resume other

matters later."

     "I hope not too much later," she walked by him to the shower,

dropping a kiss on one ear as she passed.

     "Perhaps later than we'd like," he said from the computer

terminal, scrolling through the accumulated messages as he

dressed.  "This evening there is a reception for all the diplomats

and a formal dinner.  All Senior Officers are expected to attend.

I hope there are no long speeches."

     "There had better not be," she called from the shower.

     "My mother left word that she'd like to see you at 1600 when

 you come off duty."

     "Send her an affirmative."

     "Done.  I presume, in keeping with Vulcan custom she'll want

 to assure herself that a delicate young woman has not been unduly

 brutalized by her son in pon farr."

     Saavik laughed, "If this has been brutality, you can be as

beastly as you like, whenever you like, for as long as you like."

    "It is true what they say about Romulan women," Spock smiled.

"They really are insatiable.

      "Lots of other messages, mostly well wishes.  We pick up the

last of the diplomatic contingent this afternoon, then its a

straight run to Organia."

     "Anything of interest on the Common Room."

     Spock checked the ship's electronic bulletin board, the

repository of opinions informed or otherwise, signed or not.  "A

lot of limericks, mostly about us - apparently somebody got a

contest started - speculating about what's been going on in these

quarters for the last few days.  Speculation runs the range from

the totally cerebral to the physiologically impossible."

     She finished her shower and read a few of them over his

shoulder.  "A couple of these aren't bad.  Humm...I hadn't thought of 
that," 

she pointed to one particularly salacious suggestion.

   "Such thoughts won't get us to work on  time."

     She began to dress while Spock called up the Captain's log.

"It does seem to have been rather quiet on the ship.  Diplomats

got collected on schedule; the dinner with Kor and his officers

was uneventful.

     "One incident last night  where the Klingon trade delegates

 tried to start a fight.  Snarl broke it up before it happened."

     "Those same clods sang that rude song at our wedding

reception."

     "Yes.  As you recall, they also made a point of refusing to

shake the Captain's hand when he welcomed them aboard the

Enterprise."

     "I'd say they are trying to stir up trouble."

     "From the tone of the log, Jim thinks so too.

     "Breakfast?," Spock walked over to the replicator

 that was one of the perks in the Senior Officers' quarters.  " We

 have time if we don't linger."

     "Whatever you're having."

     Saavik bundled her long hair into a coil at the back of her

neck.  "My hair is a disaster.  And look at this place."

     Spock looked.  Both he and Saavik normally kept their

quarters pin neat.  But this - Saavik's wedding dress and Spock's

dress uniform had at least been deposited on a chair.  Other

articles were scattered hither and yon.  Remains of meals from the

processing unit were strewn about.  Clearly their primary concern had 

not been on the state of their quarters!

     Saavik hung the dress in the closet while Spock dialed up

their breakfast.  "I'll leave your dress uniform where it is.

You'll need it this evening."

     She dumped a handful of assorted debris down the recycling

chute, and paused to drink the glass of orange juice Spock handed

her. 
   
     "Hurry.  We should not be late.  It sets a poor example."

     " I know.   Lets go, but I hate to see these days end.  They have 
been the most
wonderful days of my life."

     "And of mine."  He kissed her quickly as they started towards

the door.  "I sincerely hope that none of the diplomats are

excessively loquacious tonight."



     Jim looked up as the turbolift doors whooshed open. He

glanced at the time.  Punctual as ever.

     Spock and Saavik moved to their stations and exchanged

greetings with the others on the bridge crew, taking over from the

low watch.

     Jim glanced at Spock, then took a second longer look.  He

didn't think it was his imagination - Spock looked 10 years

younger.  Long practice in reading the most subtle expressions on

his friend's face and nearly invisible body language cues made the

changes apparent.  Jim sensed contentment, fulfillment.  Spock's

happy, Kirk smiled to himself.  He'll probably never admit it, but

he's actually happy.

     He looked at Saavik.  She was, as always, composed, alert,

and beautiful.  But here too he saw change - there was a light in

her eyes and a glow about her.  It was the look of a woman loving,

and well loved.  It was utterly clear to Jim Kirk, that contrary

to some of the Common Room limericks, Spock and Saavik had not

spent the last few days playing chess and contemplating the more

obscure Vulcan philosophers.



     He had Chekov conduct a scheduled VIP tour.  Jim knew he'd

have more than enough dealings with VIPs before the reception and

dinner were over.

     "Spock, you saw the log entry on the trouble in Rec One."

     "Certainly.  And I agree with you, that those trade delegates

are going out of their way to start trouble."

     "It makes no sense.  Analysis, Spock."

     "Insufficient data, Captain."

     "I don't like it."

     "Nor do I.  I think there is a high probability that we'll

 have more data to work with before the end of the day."

     "Why do you think so."

     "They came aboard, and refused, rudely, to shake your hand.

A very mild provocation.  Two days later, their choice of music

disturbed my father.  A somewhat more serious incident, but one

that could be attributed to their state of inebriation.  Then

there was the incident in Rec One.  Definitely aggressive

behavior, no mitigating circumstances."

     "You are suggesting that there will be a still more serious

incident, that what they have been doing is part of a carefully

planned strategy."

     "That is my surmise."

     "It does  make sense.  But why?  What are they trying to

accomplish by this?  It's not typically Klingon behavior.  When

Klingons want to start trouble, they don't get devious about it.

They just do it.  They fight duels; they have brawls; they stage

mutinies.  They fight openly.  The few times I've encountered

attempts at Klingon duplicity, they haven't been very successful.

It's just not their nature."

     "Granted, Captain, it is behavior most unlike Klingons.  But

I find it probable that the next incident will happen today."

     "You may be right.  You usually are."

     "When they act again, perhaps their action will give some

 indication of the rationale for what so far seems totally purposeless 
activity."

     "What do you think they will do?"

     "Unknown.  But it will be more provocative than insulting a

crewmember and throwing a klin zha piece."

     "May I express an opinion, Captain."

     "Certainly, Saavik."

     "The behavior you describe is, as you say, atypical for

Klingons.  But it is very typical for Romulans."

     "You're right," Kirk exclaimed. "These Klingons are behaving

like Romulans.  This has the feel of a Romulan scheme."

     "But what do two Klingon trade delegates have to do with it?"

     "I think we will soon find out."

     "Captain," Uhura interjected, "Mr. Chekov and the VIPs will

be here shortly."

      "It's time to be a tour guide," Jim sighed.  While he

understood the necessity for VIP tours, recognizing that they

built rapport between the Federation's diplomats and Starfleet, it

wasn't one of his favorite tasks.

     On this mission, these tours had been conducted almost every

day, as the Enterprise made additional pick-ups of VIPs.  He'd had

Pavel conduct most of them.  Chekov seemed to enjoy it and did a

good job.  But when the VIPs completed their bottom to top tour of

the ship on the bridge, they expected comments from the Captain.

     The turbolift doors opened and disgorged Chekov, with 6 VIPs

in tow.  There were three Deltans, a Tellerite, and surprisingly,

the two Klingons.  They'd been aboard since early in the mission.

Why had they waited so long to take the tour?

     "This is the bridge, the nerve center of the ship," Pavel

intoned. "It is staffed 24 hours a day.  Except in an extreme

emergency when the Enterprise might be commanded from the

auxiliary control room, this is where command decisions are made

on the Enterprise."

     "I see a lot of empty chairs." one of the Deltans noted.

     "That is correct.  On an exploratory mission or one where

hostile action was viewed as not unlikely, those empty chairs

would be occupied.  But on a routine voyage such as this, deep in

Federation space, staffing of every station at all times is not

viewed as necessary."

     "There seem to be a small number of people to handle this

huge ship," the Tellerite noted.

     "The number can increase very quickly, if necessary." Chekov

informed her. "The empty station there is Engineering.  If we are

in a situation where rapid or unexpected maneuvering is likely, or

there is likely to be a need for additional power quickly, either

the Chief Engineer or his assistant would be at that station, and

take control of the ship's engines from the Engineering Section.

     "At those times when we unfortunately find ourselves forced

to take offensive or defensive action against an adversary, the

Weapons station," he pointed, "is staffed.  That is, in fact, my

battle station."

     "You, you fight this ship, Human?" one of the Klingons asked

incredulously scorn clear in his voice.

     Jim stiffened.  Should he intervene?.  Not yet.

     "When Enterprise must fight, I fight her.  But I would remind

you, Krang, that there is peace between us now, and that you and

your colleague, Kebble, are guests aboard our ship."

     The menace in Chekov's voice was only slightly veiled.  The

Klingons apparently got the hint and subsided.  Jim nodded to

himself.  Well done. 

     "What is the station back there?" one of the Deltans asked,

pointing to the position behind the command chair.

     "That's the Security station," Pavel said, relieved to change

the subject. "It is rarely staffed, but in some situations, for

example an intruder alert, or a landing party in a hazardous

situation, the Security Chief or one of her people would be here

to coordinate Security and Command activities closely."

     "Ah, yes, your Security Chief, that overgrown housecat,"

Kebble spoke disparagingly.

     Kirk decided it was time for him to speak. They clearly were

going to keep on until they got a response.  It would be best if

that response came from him.  "I noticed last night, that you and

Krang backed down very quickly last night when faced by Commander

Snnanagfashtalli."

     "Perhaps, I did over-react a bit to a move in a klin zha

game," Kebble conceded.  Kirk relaxed, too soon.

     "You will have to excuse my compatriot," Krang spoke, "He did

not truly understand the weakness of the Federation, the

decadence..."

     Kirk got out of the command chair and walked toward the

Klingons.  "Get off the bridge of my ship - now.  I've had enough

of your provocations and insufferable rudeness.  You are confined

to your quarters.  I will speak with you there when I can spare

the time.  In the meantime, will you give me your word that you

will remain in your quarters?"

     "We will remain there."

     "Very well.  Mr. Chekov, remove these beings from the bridge

and escort them to their quarters."

      "Yes sir, with pleasure sir."  Chekov herded the two

Klingons into the turbolift.  They offered no resistance.

     Kirk turned to the remaining VIPs and tried to put the best

face on the incident. "I'm sorry for the unpleasantness."

     "Is there anything else I can explain to you about the bridge

and the way we work here?"

     "Just explain," the Tellerite asked, "how you managed not to

knock their teeth down their miserable throats.  These two have

been making themselves impossible ever since they boarded this

ship.  They have gone out of their way to be hostile and rude to

everyone."

     "I've confined them to their quarters.  I think our reception 

and dinner this evening will be much more pleasant without them."

     
     After the VIPs left,  Kirk looked at those surrounding him 

on the bridge.  "Mr. Chekov, were they like that through the entire 
tour?"

     "No, Captain. On the whole, they seemed rather disinterested

and said very little except..."

     "Except for what."

     "Except for the brig, of all places.  Usually, I just walk by

 and let VIPs look into one of the cells.

         "But they weren't content with the walk by.  The force field

wasn't up, of course, and they walked right in.  Really gave the

place the once over."

     "Becoming acquainted with their future home," Uhura commented 
dryly.

     "Perhaps."

     "Aside from that, giving the brig a thorough check-out, did

they do anything unusual during the tour before they got here?"

     "Nothing.  As I said, they seemed not to be very interested.

But they behaved themselves until they got to the bridge."

     "While you were acting as a tour guide, we were talking about

those two.  Spock thinks, and I concur, that their actions are

pre-planned, a deliberate pattern of provocation, the purpose of

which is unknown.

     "Both Spock and I view their actions as atypical for

Klingons.  When a Klingon wants to pick a fight, he does so,

overtly and directly.  Saavik pointed out that their behavior was

more that of Romulans than of Klingons."

     Chekov nodded, "When I've fought Klingons it has been in

space battles or bar room brawls.  They are determined fighters

and very good ones but they are not devious."

     Uhura agreed, "When they fight, they even prefer to fight in

full visual contact, shouting slogans..."

     "Or quoting Shakespeare," Spock added.

     "They are direct.  They don't just drop insults and not

 follow though.  These trade delegates are not behaving like

 Klingons."

     Kirk nodded. "I know.  That's why I've put them to a test.  I

confined them to quarters, and they agreed to stay there.  If they

are simply ill-mannered Klingons opposed to the peace for reasons

of their own, they'll stay there.  The word of an honorable

Klingon, even one who is an enemy, is good.  If they don't 

remain in their quarters, I'll know they are not what they seem."

     "That would appear to be all that can be done for now,

 Captain," Spock noted. "The next move, if any, is up to them."

     "I think there will be a next move."

     "So do I."

     "What will it be?"

     "Unknown."

     "Maybe I can call on an expert in Klingon psychology."

     "Kor?"

     "Yes, Kor.  Everything he says is monitored of course.  But at

 least we can reduce the size of the audience, by excluding

 the Conquestor's bridge crew. Commander Uhura, contact

 the Conquestor and  arrange for me to

talk to Kor quarters to quarters.  Spock, you have the conn."



     "Kor. I've got a problem with two of your people.  Perhaps

 you can advise me."

     "If I can, I will."

      "I told you that I was transporting two trade delegates from

an agricultural colony, Kebble and Krang, who your government

 wished included in the delegation."

     "Yes, we have their records.  Low level people, colonists.

But we need to have a delegation of adequate size on Organia, and

they were in the area. They are a problem?"

     "They are a problem indeed."  Kirk explained what had

transpired. "I've got them confined to their quarters now, but not

under guard.  I'm sure you understand my reasoning."

     "I do, and will be most interested in whatever new

developments occur.  But I find the whole matter most unlikely."

     "Why?"

     "Our records indicate that Kebble and Krang are men in their

 late middle years, who after their compulsory military service,

 where they did not distinguish themselves, took up a very placid

 agrarian life  and became trade delegates primarily because they

 were so unaggressive that they made no enemies."

     Kirk saw no point in furthering endangering Kor by continuing

the conversation.  His suspicions had been confirmed, and more

than confirmed.  "That is most interesting. Thank you, my friend."



     "So," he summarized to the others back on the bridge, "it is

likely that Kebble and Krang are not Kebble and Krang.  The real

Kebble and Krang were probably killed, quite possibly by these

two.  Who they are is unknown at this point, as is their true

mission on the Enterprise."

     "We can safely assume hostile intentions, I presume."

     "Yes.  While I don't want to place them obviously under guard

 - we have to give them an opportunity to try whatever comes next

 - I do want to be able to get help  in a hurry if needed.

     "Snnanagfashtalli," he thumbed a button on the command chair.

     "Yes, Captain."

     He reported the incident on the bridge to the Security

Officer.  "Is there any way you can have a Security detail near

that cabin, but out of sight .  I don't want to make

this into a major diplomatic incident if I don't have to."

     "Yes.  I can put a team behind the nearest entrance to the

Jefferies tube.  I estimate a response time of 45 plus or minus

5, seconds if you call us or if we hear any sort of disturbance."

     "Very good.  Do it."

     "Aye, Captain."

     

     Spock and Kirk were still on the bridge  after the

evening watch  had come on duty and   Saavik had left to keep her

appointment with Amanda.

     "Why are they doing this, Spock, what are they trying to

accomplish?"

    "It is most puzzling.  There is a clear pattern to their

behavior, but I cannot determine a purpose."

     " I think..."

     Suddenly, Spock's face contorted with rage.  "Saavik.

The Klingons.  Security."  Spock  shouted and was into the waiting

turbolift before he finished speaking.

     Kirk paused long enough to call Security, and then fumed for

while he waited for the next turbolift car.

     He and the Security team met outside the door to the

Klingons' cabin.  The door had been forced open and inside he saw

one Klingon slumped on the floor, apparently unconscious, and the

other receive a kick from Spock where it would have the maximum

impact.  Spock jumped on the Klingon as he groaned and fell to the

floor, and struck him hard on the face, struck again.

     Saavik, one shoulder of her uniform torn, green blood on her

shoulder and her hand, was trying to pull Spock off the now nearly

unconscious Klingon.

     "I walked by on the way to see Amanda.  The door opened

suddenly and these two pulled me into the cabin.  They tore at my

uniform and, within seconds, Spock arrived," Saavik explained.

     Kirk and one member of the Security team finally separated

Spock from the Klingon, and after a brief time, Kirk could see

rationality return to Spock's face as he got control of his rage.

     "Captain, I am myself again. I was momentarily out of

control.  My wife, are you all right?"

     She nodded.

     The security detail leveled phasers at the Klingons in case they

 were not as thoroughly removed from the fight as it appeared.

     Looking in through the open door were Sarek and Amanda, whose

cabin was next door.  Other  diplomats were standing behind them, trying

to see what was going on.

     Jim stepped out into the corridor.  "These unpleasant guests

assaulted one of my officers.  The situation is under control. 

     "Let us not dwell on this unpleasantness, gentlebeings, and

we'll meet as planned at 1800 hours in the VIP lounge for

cocktails, followed by dinner in the Officer's Mess.."

     Slowly at Amanda and Sarek's urging, the group dispersed.

     He went back into the cabin. "If those two were trying to

provoke an incident I could not ignore, they have succeeded.

Saavik, you're going to Sickbay to get those injuries taken care

of."

     "But.."

     "I believe the Captain just gave you an order, my wife, and

I'm going with you."

     Kirk paused once on their way to Sickbay to call maintenance

and get someone to come repair the door.  Otherwise, they didn't

speak until they were in the privacy of McCoy's office.

     "What I was trying to tell you is that not all the blood you

see is mine," Saavik said calmly, as Dr. McCoy cleaned the

scratches on her shoulder.  "One raked me on the shoulder in the

process of attempting to tear my uniform off, but the blood on my

hand belongs to one of them.  I tried for a nerve pinch on his

neck, but could not get a proper grip and had to settle for

whatever damage my fingernails could do."

     "But that's not Klingon blood," McCoy observed.

     "No, it's not.  If you analyze it, I believe you'll find it

 to be Romulan."

     "Romulans disguised as Klingons, on my ship!"

      After a quick analysis, McCoy confirmed Saavik's conclusion.

     "What is this all about?  What's the point of it?"

     "Maybe I can find out," Saavik said.

     "How?"

     "By asking them."

     Kirk just stared at her.

     "Here's what I have in mind...."


     As she explained, Kirk pondered.  If Saavik could pull it

off, it would answer a lot of questions that needed to be

answered.  "It might work.  What do you think Spock?  Bones?"

     McCoy chuckled, "I like it.  Its sneaky; its dishonest; its

just what those two deserve."

     "I think it may work, and if it does not we have lost nothing

except some time.  I don't think a few hours is critical - yet."

      "I should really see if they require medical attention."

     "But, Bones,  if you do that, you couldn't help but have to notice

that they are not Klingons."

     "You're right.  Sure there is no real damage."

     "One received a hard kick in a vulnerable area, and a few

slaps. The other was taken out by a nerve pinch.  The Captain and

the Security team stopped me before I could inflict serious injury."

     "Think your medical ethics will allow you to withhold

treatment until after Saavik sees what she can find out?" Jim

asked.

     McCoy nodded, "It can wait."

     "Then, Saavik, it's up to you.."

     "I would like a chance to practice beforehand," Saavik said.

"I'll need people to ask me tough questions in the Romulan

language so I can plan for contingencies and not have to improvise

too much."

     "I can do that," Spock nodded, "Would you mind, Captain, if I

get my father involved as well?  He is fluent in Romulan, even

more than I am."

     "Sarek already knows what happened and since you plan on

using his quarters anyway, he might as well be involved in the

whole thing.  Maybe you two and he can get together after  dinner

and go over things. Get your story lined up."

     "We'll do that, Captain." Spock agreed.

     McCoy saw the look the passed between Spock and Saavik.

 "Helleva honeymoon," he muttered under his breath.

     "Did you say something, Bones?"

     "Nothing, Captain."

     "Then we'll plan on going forward with this in the morning.

But now, I think we all better dress for dinner.  Can't keep our

distinguished guests  waiting.  Of course if you don't feel up to it, 
Saavik, I'll

understand."

     "I'm fine.  We've got the minimize this incident as far as

the VIPs are concerned, at least until we find out what's going

on.  I should be there.  My absence would be noted and commented

on."

     "Very good.  And I think this scheme of yours is just what we

need to get to the bottom of this business."
 


Path: tivoli.tivoli.com!geraldo.cc.utexas.edu!cs.utexas.edu!howland.reston.ans.net!ix.netcom.com!netnews
From: gini@ix.netcom.com (Virginia Boehm)
Newsgroups: alt.startrek.creative
Subject: Repost - Mission of Honor, part 6 of 15
Date: 30 Mar 1995 18:52:11 GMT
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Xref: tivoli.tivoli.com alt.startrek.creative:7544

The usual disclaimers re Paramount's ownership of Star Trek
Story copyright by V.B. Worthen, 1995 




                             Chapter 6



     "They're coming," Spock observed, then closed the door just

as Saavik, Snarl beside her, came down the corridor.  They stopped

before the cabin next to Sarek's and  Snarl nodded to the security

guards who opened the door to the cabin where the "Klingon's"

were being held.

     "Lieutenant Commander Saavik is here to interrogate these

Klingon pigs", Snarl snarled. 

     Saavik ordered  "You will stay here and if these beasts who

pass for sentient beings try anything - anything at all - you

have my permission to stop them however you like."

     "I would enjoy that", Snarl purred fiercely, extending her

claws, and flicking one of them with her tongue.

     At that, Saavik strode into the cabin and closed, then

ostentatiously locked, the door.  The electronic bug on the wall

of Sarek's cabin transmitted what was being said next door very

clearly.

     First, she cursed at them, copiously in  Romulan, apparently

creatively, since the Universal Translator couldn't do much with

it.  What is did translate was graphic and nasty.

     Then, "You unutterably stupid bunglers.  Are things so bad on

the twin worlds now that the Praetor can find no better tools to

carry out his work.  You blew your cover, you green-blooded

maggots, endangering your mission, endangered mine as well, and

nearly got yourselves killed.  My consort would have killed you if

I hadn't stopped him, and I was very tempted not to.

     "You assaulted me, I scratched you and you bled green.  If I

hadn't thought very quickly, scratched myself as well as and

claimed your blood as mine, it would have been the end of whatever

your mission is, and of your worthless lives."



     ("Will this work," Kirk asked Sarek.  "Will they buy it?"

     "I think so.  The Romulan language mode she is using is that

of a member of a high noble house to an obvious inferior.  She's

making it very difficult for them to even question her veracity.")



     Saavik continued, "Well, don't just stand there looking at

each other.  Of course I do not want to work with such proven

incompetents, but you've made such as mess of things that I will

have to work with you to save my own mission.  So, start with what

it is you thought you'd accomplish by assaulting me.  And give me

something to call you instead of Idiot 1 and Bungler 2."

     "I am T'keil and he is Narget.  And you, my lady?"



 (In the next room, Kirk gave an a-ok, and grinned.  Spock relaxed

 slightly.  Saavik's plan was working.)



     "Saavik will do as that is the name I have used for many

years since I was sent as a deep agent.  My mission I will tell

you of as it becomes necessary.  Now, besides just generally

screwing things up, what were you supposed to be doing?"

     "You know there is a Klingon ship flying tandem with the

Enterprise."

     "Of course I know it, T'keil. I am stationed on the bridge of

this vessel.  Now, tell me something I don't know - what are you

supposed to be doing here?"

     "The idea was to create a series of incidents of increasing

severity that would arouse ill will against Klingons - are you

sure this cabin is secure, Lady?"

     "If not, after what I've said, I am in more trouble than you

are."

     "Well, at some point, we assumed that we would create so much

ill will that we'd get thrown in the brig."

     "If you want to be in the brig, I can certainly order that

done.  But why do you want to be in the brig?"

     "Because that's where the special homing device is."



      (Jim called the bridge, "Chekov, take a Security team and

 check the VIP brig.  There is some sort of device our friends

 have placed there. Be careful with it."  Then, he turned his

 attention back to the conversation.)



     "So," Saavik drew them out, "Then, at the proper time, you'd

trigger the device and a Romulan ship would soon be here and

transport you aboard.  This homing device is, I assume, one that

allows your lifeform readings to be distinguished from the others

aboard the ship, even if it is not physically attached to you as a

transponder would be.?"

     "Of course, that should be obvious."



     (Jim and Spock looked at each other.  This was most unlikely.

Vulcan and Romulan sensor readings were identical to anything but

the most sensitive scanner, and that at very close range. But

whatever this device was it must be treated carefully, very

carefully.)



     "And the signal to trigger the device - obviously it must

come from the Klingon ship.  How were you supposed to recognize

it, being in the brig on the Enterprise?"

     "We would notice.  The Klingon ship was to fire on the

Enterprise.  Then we would trigger the homing device."



     (Jim made another note.  Must talk to Kor, urgently.)



     "I see it now," Saavik nodded, "Not a bad plan, although

flawed by your poor execution.  There are others of us on the

Klingon vessel, disguised I would hope more adequately than you

were?"

     "Yes, their blood chemistry was chemically altered.  With us,

there was not sufficient time.  We were diverted from another

mission to carry out this one and it was done very quickly."

     "They were to gain control, fire on the Enterprise, and here

your behavior would have sufficiently upset the Captain so that

the Enterprise would fire back, without questioning what was going

on?"

     T'keil almost smiled, "Ideally, the two vessels would destroy

each other, and we'd be beamed aboard the Romulan ship before that

happened.  If not, once they were crippled, our vessel would

destroy them."

     "And, "Saavik finished for him, "Since the vessels would have

sent messages to their respective governments telling them of the

battle, the Klingons would blame the Federation, the Federation

the Klingons, there would be much confusion because both vessels

would have been totally destroyed and peace between the Klingon

Empire and the Federation would be most unlikely."

     "Yes, that was the plan."



     (Spock, this is incredible.  Do you suppose she could

possibly find out who we are looking for on Kor's ship?"

     "I'll ask, Captain."  Spock returned to his place as close to where 
Saavik

was on the other side of the wall as possible.  Bonded Vulcans

were telepathic with one another only at very short distances,

although empathic at vastly greater ones.

     "And I used to think Vulcans could not lie."

     "Her Romulan half is about to tell, what you would call  'a 
whopper'.")



     "Now that I know your plan, I'll tell you something of my

mission.  There may be a way we can still both succeed.

     "When I was very young, I was selected for this mission.

It was carefully worked out.  My House gave out that I had died of

a sudden illness, and I was sent to Hellguard before it was

abandoned.  As anticipated, the Vulcans came to "rescue" some half

breed  children and I passed as one of them.  I had been well

prepared and soon gained entrance to Starfleet Academy.  I had to

be there in order to accomplish my mission.

     "My mission is to infiltrate the Vulcan High Council and

supply ongoing intelligence to the Praetor.  Since I was accepted

as being half Vulcan, half Romulan, I could apply for Vulcan

citizenship.  But, being houseless, it was necessary for me to

become the consort of a Vulcan of a well-known House to gain the

stature I would need to infiltrate the High Council.  This was not

an easy endeavor, but eventually I accomplished it, as you know.

     "Obviously, in order to accomplish my mission, I must stay

alive, and so must Spock."

     "I can see that you must be rescued with us, but why Spock.

Couldn't you achieve your goals just as effectively as a widow?"

     "No.  Under Vulcan law, I am not a full member of the House

until I have born him a child."



     ("That's a new law most certainly," Sarek smiled. "She's

really good at this.")

     

     "So I must take Spock with me.  And do so in such a way that

he does not know  I am an agent.  Should he find out, he would

divorce me and my mission would fail."

     "Yes, I see that.  But how can that be done? "

     "It will require considerable thought and planning.  I

suppose Spock and I will leave in a shuttlecraft and be 'rescued'

by the Romulan ship."

     "But how will you persuade Spock to abandon his ship?"

     "I have ways of dealing with Spock as only a consort can.  I

was well trained for this mission, very well trained, even in the

arts of harathi.  Under some circumstances, I can get Spock to do

anything, anything at all."



     ("Spock", Jim grinned. "The Universal Translator didn't

handle that word, but does it mean what I think it does?"

     "Yes, Captain, so far as our uninvited guests know, I have

been enslaved by Romulan sexual perversions." Spock's face was

impassive, and Jim managed to restrain his own smile.

     "But, on a more mundane topic, that signal you just got,

Chekov found the  device.?"

     Right inside the entrance to the VIP Brig, placed there no

doubt during the VIP tour."

     "That explains their interest in the brig. She can send these

fellows there any time."

     "I've told her.")



     "T'keil, Narget, it is time for you to become Krang and

Kebble once more, and for me to see you to the brig.  I have

confidence that in spite of this poor start, both of our missions

will proceed satisfactorily.

     "I assume," Saavik added casually, "That since the Klingon

ship is to fire first, at least one person on the bridge is ours.

If you know who, it might be useful to me.  Perhaps I'd be able to

communicate in some fashion, and make sure our efforts are

coordinated."

     "The First Officer and the Weapons Officer are ours, Lady.

Deep agents like yourself."

     "That information may be critical us at some time.   I'll

find a way to communicate with you again within a day or so.

There are plans I must make to assure our joint success.  In the

meanwhile, I must  have you escorted to the brig.

     "Guard," Saavik shouted and opened the door. Snarl and her

two guards were waiting. "Take these worthless beasts to the brig.

They told me nothing but lies punctuated by curse words."

     The Romulan "Klingons" left peacefully with the security

force. Saavik watched them go, then entered Sarek's quarters as

Spock opened the door.



     "Your performance exceeded even my expectations," Spock told

her.

     "Once I got started, it was quite easy. Those two intimidated

so very easily, almost too easily.  That was much easier than the

drill you and Sarek put me though."

     "But our work has just begun.  For openers, we have to find

out what that device in the brig actually is.  I don't believe it's

a homing device."

     "I concur, Captain.  I think those two are very low level

agents and very expendable ones."

     "Thank you for the use of your cabin, Sarek, and your help in

planning this episode."

     "If I can assist further, let me know."

     Jim stopped at the first intercom in the corridor, "Scotty?"

     "Aye, Captain, I'm taking a look at the gizmo."

     "Take a very careful look at it - I've got a bad feeling

about it."

     "I do too, Captain."

     "As soon as you find out what it is, we'll be in the briefing

room."



     Scott called the briefing room very soon after Kirk, Spock,

and Saavik got there.

     "It's a verri simple thing, and deadly.  A metal case with a

switch and inside, a magnetic field.  And inside the field, just a

wee bit of antimatter, about enough to destroy a starship if its

placed right, and perfectly placed it was - in the brig, right

near auxiliary control."

     Kirk nodded. "It fits now, very Romulan and very devious.

Somehow the Romulans on Kor's ship gain control long enough to

fire one shot - it doesn't have to be a particularly good hit,

just solid enough so that those poor dupes in the brig can feel

it.  They open the switch on that thing, the Enterprise gets blown

to glory." 

     "Then," Spock finished the tale for him, "The Romulan ship

destroys Kor's vessel, disappears, and nothing is left but small

amounts of debris and large quantities of confusion and

recrimination."

     "What are you planning to do with that bomb, Scotty."

     "Thought I'd rig a remote control detonator, get if off the

 ship and set it off when its a safe distance away.  Wouldn't want

 it hanging in space, being a navigational hazard."

     "See to it, Engineer, then join us in the briefing room.

     "Looks like our work is cut out for us.  Spock, get Chekov

here and Dr McCoy.  Uhura too."

     "How about Sulu, Captain, I know he's not officially a member

of the crew, but..."

     "He's a good man in a tight spot, and wouldn't want to miss

out on it if I know Sulu.  Yes, Sulu too."



     "Captain, I think we're still missing a piece of this,"

Chekov commented after Saavik and Scotty reported on events.

     "I've got the same hunch," Saavik added. "Those two were

simply too stupid and too easily intimidated.  Or were they? Is

there something else they didn't tell me?"

      Sulu suggested, "Let's lay it out from a strategic

standpoint.  Plan A we know about - the Conquestor fires on the

Enterprise; our two unknowing dupes blow up the Enterprise; the

Romulans destroy the Conquestor.

     "I think Plan B is obvious - if for whatever reason the

antimatter device does not get detonated, Conquestor is to battle

the Enterprise in earnest."

     "Makes sense, Sulu."

     "Think Romulan," Saavik urged, "Plan B is for use if the

 antimatter device doesn't go off.  But there has to be a Plan C,

 in case the Romulans are unable to take control of Conquestor and

 fire on the Enterprise in the first place."

     "You're right," Kirk nodded. "We have to think Romulan."

     "Plan C most probably involves having the Romulan ship

 destroy the Enterprise." Spock opined.

     "But we can outgun anything they have," Chekov protested.

     "Not unless we can see it.  Think.  Do you really believe

that the device used to blame the Enterprise for firing on

Chancellor Gorkon's ship was one of a kind?" Sulu said.

     "Valaris said it was."

     Maybe she believed it or maybe she was lying.   At any

rate I don't believe it was, and if you do, there's a bridge I'd

like to sell you.  I'm assuming that this Romulan ship can fight

cloaked."

     Kirk nodded, "I'll buy that. I don't like it, but I'll buy

it.  We're being stalked by a cloaked ship that can fire cloaked."

     "Oh joy," McCoy commented.

     "Yes, and that leaves us with Plan D.  Now we've found out

 what it is that we don't know - and that is what happens if for

 some reason the Romulan vessel is defeated by the Enterprise."

     "Are things that convoluted, Spock?"

     "I believe so, Captain.  While they certainly  hope to

disrupt the peace process, I think their main agenda is to destroy

this ship, and us.  The Romulans have had a very personal vendetta

against us, ever since we stole their cloaking device. They've

 gone to great lengths to try to kill us before."

     "Yes they have.  OK", Kirk summarized." Assume we're the

primary target.  They know that this is their last chance to get

this ship, so whatever their plan is, they consider

it almost fail-safe, something that will work even if  their agents

on the Enterprise fail to detonate the bomb so Plan A fails, the

Conquestor doesn't destroy the Enterprise, and Plan B goes down,

and the Romulan ship also fails, so that Plan C doesn't come off.

What then is Plan D?"

     There was a long silence.

     It was Chekov who finally broke it. "Captain, I think I may

know.  Think back to those two who are in the brig, who obviously

weren't told that their "homing device" was actually an antimatter

bomb.  Perhaps they were also given a "back up device" that they

were told would automatically send out a signal at a fixed time,

so that even if they were unable to operate their device, they'd

be retrieved."

     "And that "back up device", Scotty continued, "would be

another antimatter bomb, set to go off at a predetermined time."

     "Chekov, Scotty, are you telling me that there is a live

anti-matter time bomb planted somewhere on my ship?"

     "I think so."

     "So do I."

     "I concur. It would be logical."

     "If you think so, Spock, so do I."  Kirk sat back.  He

thought about the diplomatic repercussions of having to conduct a

full search of the ship, including the VIP Quarters.  There would

be hell to pay, but it had to be done.  "I'll get Snarl and her

people on it right away.  Need some help from Engineering too."

     "Captain," Saavik cut in. "It may not be necessary to search

the ship.  Perhaps I can find out where it is?"

     "Perhaps she can," Spock agreed. "It worked once before."

     "What did you have in mind, Saavik?"

      "I'll  make a visit to the brig. I'll make gestures

indicating that the brig is bugged and talk nonsense while I

busily write in Romulan that Engineering took their device apart

before I could retrieve it for them, that the Captain has guessed

there is another one and ordered a search of the ship, and to

quick tell me where the other one is so that I can get there ahead

of the searchers.

     "What do you think?"

     "Sounds good. Do it."



     "Once we do find the other bomb, Captain, I want to do some

tricky work on it."

     "What kind of work,"

     "Need to find out when it is due to go off."

     "Scotty, of course we do.  I should have thought of that.

We're assuming that this Plan D is a last ditch effort after

everything else has failed.  So knowing the end of the timeframe

will give us a pretty good estimate of when trouble is likely to

start.  Can the antimatter containment lab handle the job."

     "If I rig extra screens and its no bigger than the other bomb

 was, it can, but depending on the mechanism, it may take a

 while."

     "And during that time, we're sitting with a live anti-matter

bomb on the ship, set to go off at an unknown time.  Don't spare

the extra screens, Scotty, and be very, very careful yourself.  But

work as quickly as you safely can."

     "Aye. I'll work as fast as I can, as soon as we find out

where it is."

     "It's in Sarek and Amanda's quarters, fastened beneath one of

the beds," Saavik said from the door.  "They were eager to tell me

once I explained the situation."

     "This Vulcan custom of not locking doors," Kirk muttered.

"combined with the Starfleet policy of not scanning diplomatic

luggage, came too close to blowing up this ship.

     "Mr. Scott, go get that bomb.  Spock, go with him and explain

things to your parents.  Ask them not to tell anyone else about

this."

     "Understood, Captain."



     "Uhura, stay here.  We have work to do."

     "I think I see the problem."

     "We have to get word to Kor, and every transmission to and

 from every Klingon vessel is monitored  as is every conversation

 held aboard it.  In addition, we can assume that the Romulan

 agents aboard have their own monitoring devices as well."

     "Yet you have to get word to Kor.  He'll be coming over with

his officers for dinner tomorrow evening and you could arrange a

private conversation then, but that may be too late."

     "Exactly.  Communications Officer, tell me how I'm going to

communicate.  Kor assumes that every word he speaks and every

message he sends out is monitored.  He really doesn't care -

- its his last voyage and the Organians asked specifically for him."

     "I think I may have an idea.  We're cruising along

with them just out of transporter range, aren't we?"

     "Yes, while I trust Kor, I don't trust some of his officers

and he doesn't either.  Neither Kor nor I would be comfortable

knowing that people from each other's ships could be beaming

aboard at any time.  We came in range when we went there for

dinner and we'll do the same tomorrow when they come here."

     "So we're just outside of transporter range - for a sentient

being."

     "You're thinking about some sort of message?"

     "Yes.  A message could be transported a greater distance

because there does not have to be the degree of signal integrity

that is required to make sure a living thing is properly

reassembled."

     "So what you are suggesting is that I do what Saavik did when

she asked where the bomb was - write a note."

     "Yes, and transport it into his personal quarters.  We know

the layout of that ship so the coordinates could be determined."

     " Yes, that's it!  Knew you'd think of something, Uhura. 

 Still  a minor problem -  I'll have to find a way to prove

to Kor that the note came from me.  Otherwise he might think it's

part of  the plot on the Conquestor."

     "You were in his quarters.  What did you talk about?

Anything that might send a clear signal that the message was from

you?"

     "We talked some about the klin zha game...Hey, he showed me

his set, a handsome one hand carved semi-precious stones in shades

of the traditional green and gold.  I remarked that on the

Enterprise, the game is the same but the pieces are Starfleet red

and silver."

     "So, if a red klin zha piece shows up in his quarters..."

     "With a note inside it...Yes.  That's it!  And he'll

 be able to let me know he received it just by a casual reference

 to klin zha."



     Hours later, after the message had been sent and acknowledged

Kirk sat in his quarters and thought.

     Scotty had managed to decode the timer.  It was set for 1000

the day after tomorrow.  The bombs were off the ship.  The

Romulans were in the brig.  Kor  had confirmation of his suspicions.

     But something was still missing, still not thought through.

He'd relied on his senior officers very heavily today, even more

so than usual, and they'd all come through for him.  They'd

thought of angles that should have occurred to him but hadn't.

Was he losing his edge?  Maybe this really was the right time to

retire.

     However, this mission still had to be completed, and

something was not right.  Finding out what it was and dealing with

it was his responsibility and no-one else's.  OK -  the bombs had

been harmlessly detonated in interstellar space.  Presumably,

the Romulans on Kor's ship could be apprehended

tomorrow night and there was plenty of room in the Enterprise's brig.

     That still left Plan C - being fired on by a cloaked Romulan

ship at a time no later than 1000 the day after tomorrow.  Of

course they'd be tougher to get than the Romulans had anticipated,

and at least would have their shields up.  but given that ship's

ability to fire cloaked, it would be difficult to fight back since

the Romulan vessel would change its heading after every shot it

took at the Enterprise.  It would be a long fight, maybe

successful, maybe not, with almost certain severe damage to his

ship and a bunch of diplomats to worry about.

     He remembered his recent experience fighting a cloaked ship.

If Sulu and the Excelsior hadn't arrived, presenting a second

target, and the Enterprise had not been carrying special equipment

that came in handy, the ship might have been destroyed.  As it

was, the Enterprise had taken a lot of shaking up and sustained

heavy damage. Her hull still showed the scars of that battle.  No,

this was not the  way to end a career.

     If there were some way to determine the Romulans' position

and fire first, taking them by surprise...Maybe there was...Kirk

thought on.
 


Path: tivoli.tivoli.com!geraldo.cc.utexas.edu!cs.utexas.edu!howland.reston.ans.net!ix.netcom.com!netnews
From: gini@ix.netcom.com (Virginia Boehm)
Newsgroups: alt.startrek.creative
Subject: Repost - Mission of Honor, part 7 of 15
Date: 30 Mar 1995 20:29:48 GMT
Organization: Netcom
Lines: 519
Distribution: world
Message-ID: <3lf4bs$nna@ixnews3.ix.netcom.com>
NNTP-Posting-Host: ix-tf4-28.ix.netcom.com
Xref: tivoli.tivoli.com alt.startrek.creative:7558

Star Trek copyrights held by Paramount Pictures.  Story copyright by 
V.B. Worthen,
1995.   This is non-commercial fan fiction.
  


                             Chapter 7




     Kirk started out the door, then stopped. What time was it

anyhow, close to midnight.  Could this wait until morning?  He

hated to interrupt them.  Some honeymoon this was turning into.

They're senior officers, on 24 hour call same as he was, he

told himself.  But he should call first.

     "Saavik here." There was only audio contact.  They'd blocked

visual.  Damn, he had interrupted something.

     "It's Jim.  Hate to bother you at this hour but I've got an

 idea I want to run by you both.  Maybe what I have in mind is

 impossible."

     "We'll be there in eight minutes," Spock spoke.

     Normally, Jim knew, Spock, even if woken from a sound sleep,

would have been there in less than three.



     They arrived in thirty seconds less than the designated eight

minutes.

     "What is it, Captain," Spock asked.

     "I've been thinking about our options, and those of the

 Romulans.  We've taken care of  the bombs.  And we

 should be able to take care of the agents on Kor's ship when they

 come here tomorrow evening.  But that still leaves us sitting

 here waiting for a cloaked vessel to open fire on us sometime

 before 1000 the day after tomorrow."

     "At least, we'll know they are coming, and approximately

when.  We'll be on alert, shields up."

     "Spock, assuming that the ship is a Bird of Prey, very fast,

cloaked, what do you think is the probability of our being able to

destroy it before it destroys us, or does us serious damage?"

     "I can only approximate.  There are undetermined variables."

     "Approximate."

     "About 25-30%"

     "I was hoping you wouldn't check me out on that.  That's

about the same as my estimate, and reflects our one previous

attempt at the deed.  We succeeded, but only because they made the

mistake of regarding the Excelsior as more of a threat than us,

and we had special equipment we could rig in a torpedo.  Even so,

we took a lot of hits.  There has got to be something we can do to

improve those odds."

     "If we knew the direction of the Bird of Prey's approach, and

had a more precise estimate of its ETA it would greatly improve

our odds."

     "Perhaps double them," Saavik agreed.

     "If  Kor knew too and would join us in the fight, it would be

 better still.  If we could get a fix on the Bird of Prey and fire

 together and fire first, we might be able to get through its

 shields.  It's even possible that we could catch them without

 their shields up, if they are not anticipating an attack."

     Jim took a deep breath -  Spock had given him a

good lead in. "I think that might be possible."

     "How?"

     "One of the agents on the Conquestor has to be able to

 communicate with the Romulans, probably a subvocalizing device

 worn at the throat.  It's probably the First Officer, who will

 lead the mutiny against Kor."

     "That would seem logical." Spock agreed, but an eyebrow went

up. "I hope you are not about to suggest what I think you are

about to suggest."

     "That if we could obtain that device and have a woman

speaking Romulan talk to the Bird of Prey, we might find out what

we need to know."

     Saavik  smiled, "Did you have anyone in particular in mind,

Captain."

     Spock shook his head, "Assuming that we could obtain the

device, which we probably could, your idea would not work.  Such a

communicator has a relatively short range, probably about the same

range as the Bird of Prey's sensors.  The Bird of Prey would scan

before opening communications.  Unless there was a battle in

progress between us and the Conquestor, they would assume their

agent had been detected, and would simply close in and open fire."

     "I thought of that.  What if we work things out with Kor to

make it appear there is a mock battle in progress?"

     "That has possibilities, Saavik mused. "Lure them into

communicating and I see what I can find out.  But will the Bird of

Prey have full sensor capabilities including visuals?"

     "I'd assume so."

     "In that case, the ruse would not work.  They will expect to

 see their agent, alleged Subcommander Klea in command of the

 Conquestor, and would certainly be able to determine if their

 communication was being answered from the Conquestor or the

 Enterprise." Spock concluded.

     "Suppose that was how the situation appeared to the Romulans

- their agent in command on the Conquestor, the communication

coming from there."

     "Captain, you can't order Saavik to.."

     "I'm not ordering either of you to do anything, and I won't."

     "Spock, I'll have to make my own decision on this."

     "I know, Saavik.  Sorry for the outburst, Jim.  Continue."

     "Suppose, to continue with the mock battle scenario, that we

cook up a deal with Kor.  After we neutralize the Romulan agents

on his ship tomorrow and obtain whatever information we can from

them, Saavik, and substituting for the weapons officer, Chekov

take their places, and go back with Kor."

     "Then 'depose' Kor and fire on the Enterprise." Saavik

continued. "I think it could be done.  And it would have the

advantage, right up to the end, of making them think their agents

were still in place, and if all else failed, that the bomb at 1000

would finish the job if they could not.  This might make them

overconfident of eventual success and cause them to overlook

subtle signs that matters were not exactly as they seemed.

     "It would be easy to obtain the coordinates from the Bird of

Prey, even its speed and weapons range.  I'd simply tell them I

needed to know in order to make sure they didn't get in my line of

fire.  Yes, yes, it could work.  And it would far more than

double our odds."

     Spock looked ashen.  He knows it could work, Jim realized,

but also knows what a chance Saavik would be taking.  So many

things could go wrong - Saavik might be detected by Klingon

sympathizers of the potential mutineers; she could be spotted as

an impostor by those aboard the Romulan ship;  she could be

prematurely "rescued" and beamed aboard it; she could be shot by

someone loyal to Kor; a misplaced shot from Sulu might destroy the

Conquestor, and so on.

     Sometimes I wish I were an Ensign, Jim thought briefly.  I

don't like having to ask people to do things like this.

Particularly really nasty things that I have to ask someone

else to do because I can't do them myself.

     Spock thought. "But even if Saavik were able to

get the information, she'd have no way of transmitting it.  With all

communications monitored by everyone and a full sensor scan in

place, as soon as she tried to do anything with what she'd

learned, that would tip off the Romulans and also alert the

other Klingons on the bridge to the fact that something was very

much not as it appeared."

     "So there would need to be some utterly undetectable,

untapable, channel of communication.  Is that what you're saying,

Spock?"

     "Yes, Captain."

     Now came the really tricky part.  "Spock, Saavik, I'm about

to invade your privacy in a way that is probably even more

offensive than I think it is.  I ask pardon in advance.

     "I know that your bonding has made you telepathic with each

other at short distances, and I infer from what I've learned over

the years about Vulcan bondings that general communication of

emotional states occurs between bondmates over long distances.

What I don't know, and now need to know is whether this longer

range communication can be turned into sort of an 'emotional code'

that could be used to transmit information.  Are there enough

nuances communicated in this way to make it possible to transmit

coordinates, times, that sort of thing?."

     Spock's face had become the closed face of the Spock of many

years ago.  Saavik looked startled, but not shocked.

     "I told you I certainly wasn't going to hand out orders.  I

recognize that what I'm suggesting is offensive."

     "Profoundly offensive, Captain.  More so than you know."

     "I admit my ignorance.  But I need to know if what I have

suggested is possible, and if it is possible, are you willing to

do it.  The rest of the plan - getting Kor behind us, planning a

carefully staged mock battle with Chekov and Sulu shooting at each

other, getting the timing right - these are matters of logistics

 and tactics.  These matters I can handle.

     "But without a means of communication that is totally secure,

totally unobservable, and instantaneous, the whole thing unravels.

     " If you say it's impossible, that will be that.

I'll never mention it again, nor let anyone know of this

conversation.  If you tell me it is something that is so repugnant

you cannot do it, same thing. No one will know."

     He'd done all he could.  Jim sat back in silence. Spock and

Saavik were looking at each other, and he knew the communication

between them was more rapid than words could possibly be.  Still,

it seemed a long wait.

     Spock spoke at last. "The needs of the many must, in this

case, outweigh our personal reaction to what you suggest.  We

believe it is possible and we volunteer to do it.  There is one

condition."

     "And that is?"

     "That no one on this ship, with the exception of Dr. McCoy,

and no one at Starfleet, or elsewhere is to know exactly how

Saavik and I are in communication.  Just some generality, such as

non-verbals, subtle body language, something of this sort.

     "To make that plausible, the mock battle can be fought with

the Enterprise and Conquestor in full visual contact.  That's the

way Klingons prefer to fight since they regard it as more

honorable to look their opponents in the eye as they battle.

Doing so might also enable us to actually use non-verbal and

verbal code as well for some matters, although coordinates, the

really critical item, cannot be handled that way."

     Jim nodded, "Agreed. No one knows but McCoy, and it doesn't

get in the log.  Should it prove necessary, I'll even doctor the

tape.  I will speak of this to no one other than Bones, not now,

not in the future.  You have my word.

     "Accepted, Jim ."

     "Time will be critical on this. I assume it is clear that

you'll have to be in command of the Enterprise during this mock

battle in order to be able to immediately translate your

communications with Saavik into orders on the bridge of the

Enterprise."

     "That is obvious, Captain."

     "I'll talk to Bones about my developing a sudden illness.

We'll work out the details in the morning."

     
      He was on a roll.  One more person to contact who wasn't even

officially a member of his crew.  He had no business calling Sulu

at this hour, but under the same circumstances, he know Hikaru

would call him.

     "Hikaru, Jim calling."

     "Yes, Jim."  Sulu's face appeared on the screen.

     "Got an idea I want to run by you.  Ok if I come over?"

     "Sure.  I assume it has to do with taking care of the cloaked

Romulan ship.  I've been sitting here thinking about the same

thing."

     "That's exactly what it's about."


     "So, you see," Jim summarized his plan, "there are four

really critical elements involved if this is to work.  One is

secure communication between the bridges of our ships, and Spock

and Saavik think they can work that out.

     "The second is Saavik's ability to communicate with the

Romulan ship in a way that serves our needs without arousing their

suspicions, or causing them to change course.  I'm sure she can do

it, so is she and so is Spock."

     "The third element is Kor's trust and cooperation.  A few

days ago, almost on impulse, I offered him what amounted to an

oath of trust and friendship.  He accepted my pledge and gave me

his own.  I believe he will cooperate with us because of it, and

keep his pledge as I will keep mine.  Such pledges are not lightly

given or accepted in the warrior culture of the Imperial Fleet.

     "The fourth element, and the one where you come in, is that

we need two marksmen who can fire convincingly at each other,

basically miss except at the critical time, and keep it up for as

long as it takes to get the information we need about the Romulan

ship, while giving every appearance of trying to destroy each

other.  You and Chekov are the only two people I know who I'd

trust playing that kind of game with live ammunition, especially when

 my ship is one of the targets.  We're talking point blank fire,

 well within transporter range.

     "You're just a passenger, I can't order you to do this, in

fact I'm probably breaking assorted Starfleet regulations by even

asking."

     "So you're not asking.  I'm volunteering.  Jim, when you

called I told you I was thinking along similar lines.  Having been

shot at by a cloaked vessel once recently, I've no desire to

repeat the experience.

    "That we had to make it appear that the  Enterprise and 

Conquestor were battling was obvious.  But I was hitting a blank wall on 
the 

communications business.  There won't exactly be time to

 stuff messages into klin  zha pieces!  But if Spock and Saavik

 say they have communications covered, then I consider it covered.

     "Yes we can do it.  Pavel and I will take over the games tank

in the morning and work out a battle to end all battles.  It will

be a thing of beauty, and style."

     Jim smiled, "The other day when you were going at it in the

tank, Bones remarked that you and Pavel made a battle seem like

a ballet."

     "You are about to see showtime."

     "Thank you, Hikaru.  Now, I'll go stuff another message in an

klin zha piece and send it to Kor's quarters."

     "Jim, it's not really my business, but have you told

Starfleet Command what is happening and what you plan."

     "No. They'd probably insist on contacting the Romulan

government, which of course would deny any official involvement.

All that would do is take the element of surprise away from us,

and we need it.  Would you have contacted Starfleet, Hikaru?"

     "Hell no."

     "Hikaru, I like your attitude.  And I appreciate your help."
 


Path: tivoli.tivoli.com!geraldo.cc.utexas.edu!cs.utexas.edu!howland.reston.ans.net!ix.netcom.com!netnews
From: gini@ix.netcom.com (Virginia Boehm)
Newsgroups: alt.startrek.creative
Subject: Repost - Mission of Honor, part 8 of 15
Date: 30 Mar 1995 23:03:24 GMT
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Xref: tivoli.tivoli.com alt.startrek.creative:7571

One more time - Paramount owns Star Trek.  I wrote this story.  Some 
characters were
invented by various Star Trek novelists.  This is fan fiction.  
Copyright, V.B. Worthen,
1995. 


                             Chapter 8



     "Captain," Commander Kor is calling from the Conquestor.

     "Put him on the screen."  Kirk checked the time - 0830, just

as scheduled.  That meant, according to the scheme he'd suggested

to Kor, that all was well on the Conquestor.  No immediate

emergencies.

     "Good morning, Kirk," Kor nodded. "I am calling with details

for this evening.  You had requested to know how many would be

beaming over."

     "Yes I had.  And I was about to call you.  Could you possibly

change your plans and come to the Enterprise at 1800 instead of

1900.  A reception I thought I would have to attend has been

canceled, so I would be pleased to get an earlier start on our

evening." 

     "Certainly.  There will be six in our party - my Second

Officer, my First Officer, Subcommander Klea, the Surgeon, the

Chief Engineer, my Weapons Officer Klodor and me."  

     "We'll look forward to the evening.  Especially the klin zha

instruction you have said you'll give me.  I'm a newcomer to the

game and badly in need of all the assistance you can provide."

     "I know.  To give you some advance preparation, I'm having

this folio of materials sent over to you shortly.  I will

personally see that you receive this material within the next few

minutes, if you'll provide the coordinates for your transporter

room."

     "I'll have my Transporter Chief provide them immediately and

stand by to receive your material.  I look forward to our evening

on the Enterprise and will see you at 1800."

     "Until then, Kirk. Kor out."



     Kirk looked around him at his senior officers. "It appears

that we are on track so far.  Chekov, go round up Sulu and start

planning your battle.  It has to start with a very glancing blow

striking the Enterprise midships, and end, when the signal is

given, with what appears to be a direct hit on the Enterprises'

bridge.  As far as what's in between, be creative."

     "Captain, Hikaru and I will be very creative.  Maybe Moria

can give us a few ideas too.  She's got every battle ever fought

in that tank in her memory files.  Between us, we will create such

a battle as has never been seen in the history of space flight.

It will be inspired, a work of genius."



     "Scotty," he called Engineering, "You know what we need."

     "Aye, I'm working on it now.  Rigging the switches and things

you'll need on the bridge will be simple.  We're going to have to

go out on the hull to rig our firecrackers there."

     "How much time will it take."

     "No more than 30 minutes, once we're prepared."

     "We'll have to drop down to impulse power to do it."

     "Aye."

     "Let me know when you're ready to go, and I'll tell the

 Conquestor we're going to impulse to check a possible problem

 with a dilithium crystal, and that we'll catch up with them."

     "Veera good.  I'll let you know.



     "Captain, the package from Kor has arrived in the transporter

room."

     "I'll be right down.  Then I'll be in sickbay. Spock, you have the 
Conn."



     "Kor and his surgeon have done very well," McCoy nodded,

"Complete physical descriptions, holos of Klea and Klodor, voice

prints, the works."

     "How close a match is it.  Can we bring this off?"

     "Klea and Saavik, close enough.  Klea is short for a Klingon,

probably because she isn't one.  She's within two centimeters of

Saavik's height.  She's heavier than Saavik by 5 kilos, but in

that bulky Klingon uniform, no one will notice.  Also, Saavik's

good at mimicry.  She'll be able to do the voice tone well

enough."

     "Chekov and Klodor?"

     "Not so good.  He's seven centimeters taller than Pavel.

We'll have to stuff cardboard in Pavel's boots or something.

Also, Klodor has quite a  deep voice.  We'll have to arrange it so

that Pavel speaks as little as possible, and I may be able to give

him something that will bring on temporary hoarseness."

     "We'll make it work, rig it somehow. Do what you can.  This

whole operation is show biz.  and speaking of show biz, how about

the toughest part, the masks?"

     "Working from these holos, we can do it.  Can I borrow some

people from the science department to help out.  I need a couple

of good organic chemists for skin and hair."

     "Ask Spock for whatever you need.  Since this helps ensure

Saavik's safety, he'll give you his whole damn department if you

ask.  In the meantime, I'll go check on the battle ballet."



     Sulu and Chekov were huddled over the games tank.  The

Enterprise and a Klingon battle cruiser Moria had obligingly

christened the Conquestor were in the tank, and being put through

their paces.

     "How is it going so far?" Kirk asked

     "We'll show you," Chekov nodded." First," he operated the

controls at the at the Conquestor's end of the tank, and a photon

torpedo streaked out and barely grazed the midsection of the

Enterprise, "The Conquestor opens fire.  Then there is a pause

while you find out that Kor has been deposed, and try to negotiate

with Klea.

     "Then," Sulu said, "You order me to fire, and I fire directly at 
Conquestor..."

     "Only Conquestor is not there and the shot passes on the

starboard."  The action to match unfolded in the tank, "And the

torpedo I fire..."

     "Passes over the top of the Enterprise, which closes in to

phaser range, and fires port phaser banks at the Conquestor,.."

     "...which has taken evasive action and..."

     "Gentlemen, carry on.  You are doing fine.  When you get your

moves down, teach them to Spock and Saavik so they can give the

proper commands and so that Saavik can direct the helmsman on

the Conquestor.

     "On second thought, Klingon ships are set up so that the

Commander can take control of any station from  the center seat.

Maybe Saavik should handle the helm herself."

     "It would be still better if I could handle both the helm and

weapons, as Sulu will be doing on the Enterprise." Chekov

suggested.

      Kirk nodded, "Good idea, and plausible too.  Saavik, as

Klea, has seized control of the ship.  You, Chekov/Klodor are her

co-conspirator.  It's quite logical that she'd give you control of the 
helm.

     "It would also reduce the amount of Klingonese that she will

have to speak, " Sulu suggested.

     "An excellent point.  We'll do it that way," Kirk decided.



     "Uhura," Jim asked when he returned to the bridge. "Can you

compile a vocabulary list for Saavik and Chekov, the absolute

minimum of Klingonese they are going to need.  We can check it

with Kor this evening, but it would help if we could get an early

start."

     "Certainly, Captain - Basic commands, numbers for positions

and such, basic battle language, a few choice curses."

     "When you finish the list, get someone to relieve you, and

you too Saavik, and go someplace and drill.  You've got a good

ear, Uhura, and I'll get you Klea's voice print."

     "Saavik, I'll need you speaking proper Klingonese with Klea's

voice."

     "Can do, Captain, with Uhura as a coach."



     "Spock, we need to plan some logistics.  If Kor's been able

to do as I suggested, at about 2030,  he'll get a call from Conquestor

 about a possible Engineering problem.  Don't know

what it will be, whatever he can rig.  He'll use that as an excuse

to send his Chief Engineer back to Conquestor and will send the

Second Officer back as well."

     "At that point, we have to subdue Klea and Klodor and get

them to sickbay," Spock nodded.

     "We'll be in the Officer's Mess and will have to

get them down to Sickbay.  There are likely to be diplomats in the

turbolift  and in the corridors.  We don't want to cause a disturbance."

     "I think that can be arranged quite simply, Captain.  We'll

take them to Rec One by a route that passes Sickbay.  At that

point, I'll arrange a nerve pinch for Klea if  Dr. McCoy can manage a

hypospray for Klodor."



     At 1800, the Klingons were piped aboard the Enterprise with

all due formality.  Since their party numbered six, so did the

Enterprise contingent made up of Kirk, Spock, McCoy, Scott,

Chekov, and Saavik.  Jim would have liked to include Sulu and

Uhura as well, but did not want the Klingons to feel outnumbered -

they were edgy enough as it was because Kor had followed the plan and

only he wore a phaser.  While the other Klingons might

be uncomfortable unarmed, the fact that none of the Enterprise

officers were armed was hopefully reassuring.

     Jim was graciousness itself as he gave them the VIP tour,

from the botanical garden at the ship's lowest level, ending at

the top of the saucer with the bridge.  The only places he omitted

were the brig and auxiliary control.

     Over drinks in the Officer's Mess talk was free and quite

cordial.  It was not remarkable when the commanders of the two

vessels moved into a corner for a private conversation.

     "At 2030, there will be a puzzling failure of the life

support system on the shuttle deck," Kor told Kirk, handing him a

red klin zha piece.

     "Which will of course be communicated to you."

     "Naturally, and of course the Chief Engineer must go back to

handle it.  And my Second Officer will be sent back too, as I do

not want temporary control of my vessel to rest in the hands of

the very junior officer who now has it, even during such a very a

low level emergency."

     "I would do the same.  Shortly thereafter, we'll leave here

for the main Recreation Room.  We will pass Sickbay on the way and

Klea and Klodor, or whatever their names really are, will develop

a sudden illness.  Then, my friend, we will go to work, as will

our surgeons. I believe you will enjoy the battle plan that has

been prepared, and look forward to any improvements or further

embellishments you might suggest."



     "Captain," McCoy's urgent voice came over the intercom in Rec

One where Jim and Kor were reviewing the battle plan.

The area near the games tank had been closed for the evening, for

"tactical exercises, at the order of the Captain" as Harb Tanzer

had repeatedly explained.  "I need you and Commander Kor in

sickbay immediately."

     "On our way, Dr. McCoy."



     "I thought I had everything under control," McCoy explained.

"There was a communication device - receiver imbedded below the

ear, speaker in the throat as anticipated, a transponder enabling

her to be retrieved - their deep agents have value, not like those

poor fools in our brig.  Even a suicide device - if she'd taken

three deep breaths, then exhaled quickly, she, and half of sickbay

would have blown up most impressively.  I thought I had the lady

defanged. She scanned clean."

     "Then what went wrong?"

     "I started to question her, Captain, barely touched the

surface of her mind, and her vital processes simply stopped."

Spock explained.

     "I placed her on full life support, but she was brain dead.

She was programmed so that the lightest mind touch would blow every

neuron." McCoy shook his head. "I never saw anything like it."

     "Is this sort of suicide mechanism known on Vulcan, Spock."

     "Indeed it is.  It is ancient knowledge, known to adepts for

thousands of years, going back before the time that the ancestors

of the Romulans left Vulcan.  Obviously, this is a part of the

ancient disciplines that the Romulan still retain. 

     "What about  Klodor. Did he know anything?"

     "Negative.  He had a transponder, but that was all.  He

didn't resist my mind touch, no reason to do so.  All he knew was

that he was to follow Klea's orders and that their mission was to

destroy the Enterprise, or at least prolong the battle long enough

for the Romulan ship to do so if necessary."

     "So we are flying blind, then, or rather Saavik is.  She

doesn't even know what her name is supposed to be, when she is

to be contacted, any recognition signals.  Under these

circumstances, Saavik, feel free to change your mind about

volunteering for this assignment."

     "No Captain," she said from the table where she was being

superficially turned into a  Klingon.  "This is still our best

bet.  I'll answer to whatever name I am called, tell anyone who is

interested in recognition signals that I am too busy fighting a

battle to bother with such childish matters, and as for time -

well, I guess this means we set our own time."

     Kirk thought.  "Very well, In that case, unless you are

contacted earlier, the battle starts at 0900 promptly, if Kor

concurs."

     Kor nodded, then smiled, "I have scheduled duels, of course,

but I have never scheduled an appointment for a battle before."

     "Nor have I," Kirk grinned. "Bones, when you and Dr. Arnath

finish with Saavik and Chekov, have them come to Rec One and we'll

practice some more."



     "Here's your phaser, re-worked.  Klingon housing with Federation 

power pack.  Should do the trick," Scotty handed it to Kor.

     "So, this should on its lightest setting, not cause me to

lose consciousness for more than five minutes.  We have no such

mild setting.  Our non-lethal setting causes loss of consciousness

for thirty minutes."

     "That's the idea," Kirk reiterated.  "The mock battle may be

quite brief and you must be conscious so you can instantly resume

command when Saavik and Chekov are beamed off the Conquestor."

     "It could knock him out for fifteen minutes or so, Jim,

"McCoy noted.  "I know so little about Klingon physiology."

     "I doubt that it would cause unconsciousness for more than

five," the Klingon Surgeon Arnath disagreed.

     "This is not a theoretical matter," Kor remonstrated, "but an

empirical one."  Calmly, he held the phaser at arm's length and

shot himself.

     "Well?" Kor asked as soon as he was able.  "How long was I

unconscious?"

     "Five minutes and twenty three seconds," Spock indicated.

     Jim laughed and shook Kor's hand, "You and I have the same

approach to problem solving.  When in doubt, go find out."

     "Kirk, are you sure you're not a Klingon?"

     "Quite sure.  But now its time for Human and Klingon to show

what we can do together.  Let's go tell the VIPs a selective

version of what we're up to.  I know it's late, but it's important

that they see us working together."



     Kirk looked at the assembly of sleepy, and in several

instances clearly annoyed VIPs.  He saw the startled looks cast at

the Klingon beside him, and stared them into silence before beginning.

     "Yes, I do know that it is 0100 ships time and that's a

helleva hour to be having a meeting.  But there is something you

must know: During the next twelve hours we will find ourselves in

battle with a Romulan ship."

     There were shocked looks, a few nods, a few actually eager looks.

     "We were hoping it would not come to this, but a few hours

ago we received certain intelligence.  As some of you may know,"

he looked at Sarek and Amanda, there have been untoward

occurrences on this ship during this voyage and also on Commander

Kor's ship." He nodded at the Klingon.

     "I'll summarize the situation briefly, then outline what is

expected of you during the battle.

     "As you know, one of my officers was assaulted by what we

believed to be two Klingons.  During the course of this assault,

one of the Klingons was slightly injured and bled the wrong color

- green.  Analysis of the blood confirmed that in fact the

supposed Klingons were in fact Romulan.

     "Why did they give themselves away by doing such a stupid

thing?" the Andorian Ambassador asked.

     "We wondered about that too,"  Kirk continued, "and through a

ruse managed to find out.  Their mission was to get consigned to

the ship's brig where they had planted a device, which turned out

to be an antimatter bomb." Kirk paused to let that sink in. "They

had also planted another such device in Ambassador Sarek's

quarters."

     Heads turned to look at Sarek.

     "How did such a device elude the Enterprise's security

systems?" one the Deltans asked."

     "Unfortunately, easily," Kirk nodded. "As a matter of policy,

Starfleet does not scan diplomatic baggage, and we presumed the

two to be trade delegates with diplomatic immunity from search."

     "I would suggest that the policy might be reviewed."

     "I assure you, it will be." Jim said dryly and continued. "We

also found out that we were being followed by a cloaked Romulan

ship.

     "And that ship will attack when it becomes clear that their

bombs have not gone off?" the delegate from Centaraus asked.

     "Yes it will, and they'll know sometime between 0900 and 1000

today. But there is more.  There were two more Romulans, disguised at

Klingons, on Commander Kor's vessel.  They, unlike our fake

Klingons, were well trained, very experienced deep agents who..."

     "Were?" the Deltan Ambassador caught the subtlety.

     "One still is, and is safely in the Enterprise's brig.  The

other, unfortunately, the one in charge of their mission,

succeeded in committing suicide.

     These deep agents had altered blood chemistry and had worked

their way up in the Imperial Fleet.  One was Kor's First Officer."

     Kor's face grimaced in the characteristic Klingon battle

grin, "The plan was for my First Officer to depose me, take over

my ship, and fire on the Enterprise."

     "So," Kirk added, "When the shot detonated the anti-matter

bomb, it would appear as if the Klingons had destroyed the

Enterprise, and that would be the end of the peace."

     "But you've clearly seen though this," the Tellerite

Ambassador said, "So I don't see why there still has to be a

battle.  Can't you contact the Romulan ship, and tell them their

plan won't work?  Maybe negotiate?"

     Kirk counted to ten, then made it twenty. "No, Ambassador.

The Romulan ship is cloaked.  She is undoubtedly equipped with the

device that was used recently in Gorkon's assassination and

can fire cloaked.  All that contacting them would accomplish is to

start the battle sooner.

     "You must understand.  These people planted antimatter bombs

on my ship and planned a mutiny on Commander Kor's.  These are

acts of war, not negotiating postures.  They intend to destroy

this ship, and Kor's ship.  If their bombs don't destroy us, they

plan to use their ship to do so.

     "Either the Enterprise or the Romulan ship will not still be

in existence by noon today. Let me assure you that the Enterprise

will still be here. 

     "Kor and I will fight the Romulan side by side and together

will win.  That's why Kor is here.  We've spent the last several

hours working on a battle plan that involves extremely close

cooperation between our ships."

     Kor cut in, "The Romulans will be expecting to find my crew

in mutiny and firing on the Enterprise.  Instead they will find

the two ships working together like this," he grasped Jim's hand

and raised their joined hands, "And we will defeat them,

gloriously.  It will be my last battle, and Kirk's last battle.

We may be, you have the saying, old dogs, but we have some new

tricks still."

     There were a few smiles, but a lot of dubious looks still,

and on some faces, more than a little fear.

     "So now you have the background.  Now, your immediate

concerns.  First, I have absolute confidence, as does Commander

Kor, that our battle plan will work and we will win.  But, I will

be perfectly frank with you, it will not be a one way battle.  It

is likely that the Enterprise will sustain hits.

     "Why?" asked several voices.

     "Because," Kirk counted ten again, "the Romulan vessel will

be cloaked and will be able to maneuver in ways that we cannot

detect, until we see the incoming fire.  Fighting together, Kor

and I will be able to eventually get a fix on the vessel's

position.  But this may take some time."

   I'll be placing the ship on red alert at 0900, possibly sooner.

Until after the battle, I must ask you to restrict yourselves to
 
the ship's VIP accommodations.  When the red alert sounds, sit down 

and hang on - things may get bumpy, hopefully not too bumpy.

     "Under battle conditions, all but emergency and life support

power is diverted to the ship's weapons and defensive screens.

The lights will dim and the viewports will opaque - no point in

being a better target than we have to be."

     "We won't get to watch the battle," an Andorian said almost

wistfully.

     "No, you won't get to watch the battle," Kirk agreed. "And,

you won't be able to operate the replicators, view an

entertainment tape, or use the games tank. The power that these

non-essential things would take will be available for what is

essential, assuring the safety of this vessel. If we're lucky,

the gravity will remain normal, but if there is a severe drain on

the ship's power, even that becomes expendable.

     "Every system, and every member of the Enterprise's crew will

be focused on one thing, and one thing only - winning the battle.

So don't call the bridge and ask how things are going.  I'll be

too busy to answer.  If there is a need to communicate with me in

case of a genuine emergency, Ambassador Sarek is designated as my

personal representative.  I will accept calls from him if at all

possible.

     "While Enterprise has always been primarily an exploration,

research, and diplomatic vessel, she has fought many battles."

     "And won them, frequently against us," Kor added, "I consider

it a great honor to fight with Enterprise, and am pleased because

doing so makes it certain that my last battle will be a victorious

one."

     "Thank you, Kor", Jim smiled.

     "Are there any further questions?"

     "What happens if we lose."

     Jim glared at the speaker, "We won't, but if we do we'll

 simply be dead.  I will not surrender my ship under any

 circumstances.  Any more questions?"

     There weren't.



     Kor shook his head as they got in the turbolift - "Civilians

- Negotiate. Lose. How did you keep your temper, Kirk."

     "With difficulty. I almost lost it with the Andorian who

considered the battle a spectator sport."

     "Let us go back to the games tank and go through the plan one

more time.  Then I,  with my new crew members, will return to the

Conquestor."



     "Everyone ready.  Let's take it from the top." Jim

instructed.

     "Kor, you liverless coward," Saavik screeched in Klingonese.

"I will no longer abide your senile behavior.  Our most implacable

foe sails beside us, with shields down."

     "I have my orders that this is a mission of peace." Kor

stated.  "I will follow these orders as honor demands."

     "Peace. You were a warrior once, Kor, but now you are a

doddering old man, unfit to command. I hereby remove you from your

command."  Saavik mimicked a phaser's whoosh and Kor obligingly

fell from his chair.

     "I take command of this vessel.  Gunner, lock on and prepare

 to fire photon torpedoes.  Aim midships."

     "Executing, Commander." Chekov replied, in Klingonese, and in

the games tank, a photon torpedo from the Klingon ship aimed at

the Enterprise, striking a glancing blow.

     "Shields up, Mr. Sulu," Kirk began.

     "Uhura, call the Conquestor, put him on the screen. "Kor, you

 deceitful bastard..." then paused.

     "Kor has been relieved of his command," Saavik said, somehow

managing to speak English with a Klingon accent....



     Kirk and Spock accompanied Kor and the Klingon versions of

Saavik and Chekov to the transporter room.

     Jim shook Kor's hand, "Remember, once we are ready and know

the Romulans' position, the Enterprise is to fire first. If our

plan has been properly executed, they will think we are totally

disabled and will be taken by surprise.  When you see our fire,

you fire."

     "I understand the plan, Kirk.  We will win a great victory

this day, working together."

     Jim wished Chekov good luck and lousy marksmanship, and tried not

to see the expression on Spock's face as he took Saavik's hand,

and held it tightly against his cheek for a moment.  Whatever they

said to each other was not spoken aloud, and Saavik, as the

transporter beam caught her, looked serene and confident, even

with the Klingon face she now wore.

     There were times when Starship Captains had to send people

into nasty situations, and Jim could not recall anything nastier

than this. If anything happened to Saavik, he knew it would cost

him his closest friend.  Spock would never forgive him, and Jim

wondered if he'd ever forgive himself.
 



Path: tivoli.tivoli.com!geraldo.cc.utexas.edu!cs.utexas.edu!howland.reston.ans.net!ix.netcom.com!netnews
From: gini@ix.netcom.com (Virginia Boehm)
Newsgroups: alt.startrek.creative
Subject: Repost - Mission of Honor, Part 9 of 15
Date: 30 Mar 1995 23:44:04 GMT
Organization: Netcom
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Distribution: world
Message-ID: <3lffo4$8pp@ixnews2.ix.netcom.com>
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Xref: tivoli.tivoli.com alt.startrek.creative:7572

Paramount holds all Star Trek copyrights.  Carolyn Clowes' novel The 
Pandora Principle
has also influenced this chapter.  The story is mine.  Copyright V.B. 
Worthen, 1995.  



                                  Chapter 9




     "Come." said McCoy to whoever was at his door, glancing at

the clock.  0340 it told him.  At that hour, it must be Jim.  It  
wasn't.

     "Doctor," said Spock, "I find myself unable to sleep."

     "You're not the only one.  And you've got better cause than I.

     "But for me not to sleep is illogical. I will need to be at

my most alert for the battle, so logic dictates I sleep.  Yet I

cannot."

     McCoy shook his head, "There is nothing illogical about your

not being able to sleep.  If it were my wife impersonating a

Romulan impersonating a Klingon,  staging a fake mutiny, being

shot at by Hikaru Sulu and possibly by a Romulan ship, hoping she

doesn't find herself beamed aboard the Romulan ship, and in effect

directing the activities on the bridge of two ships while talking

to the Romulans, let me tell you, I'd be more than an insomnia

case, I'd be a basket case. It's perfectly normal, Spock.  You're

worried about her and you have cause to be.  Let me give you a

pill.  It will help you at least relax some, if not sleep."

     "I think that any of your potions strong enough to be

effective would not wear off in time for the battle."

     McCoy sighed and reached for the brandy bottle.   "In that

case, this old country doctor prescribes a little ethanol and

 some conversation.  Sit down and stop pacing."

     Spock sat, and accepted the glass. "But Saavik is doing the

logical thing, she's sleeping.  I can sense that. Why can't I?"

     "Do you want the reason for your human half or your Vulcan

half."

     "Start with the Vulcan."

     "OK - the Vulcan.  Saavik is in more direct danger than you,

but she is also more in control of the situation.  She knows that

her safety, and yours, and all of ours depends on her and what she

does.  She's in charge, and if she's confident of her ability to

do what needs to be done, she has no reason to be sleepless.

    "You, on the other hand, are not in control.  The details of

what you do will depend on what Saavik does and what she is able

to find out from the Romulans and communicate to you.  Not being

in control is an even more uncomfortable state of affairs for a

Vulcan than for a human."

     "Correct.  Dealing with that situation is one of the primary

reasons we focus so heavily on the mental disciplines."

     "And at this time, I assume there are still some lingering

aftereffects of the pon farr and thus you cannot use those mental

disciplines as effectively as you customarily do."

     "Also true."

     "Why didn't you let me tell Jim?   Maybe he could have found

another way.  Being separated from her and knowing she is in

danger and being unable to take action must be agonizing."

     Spock nodded, "Leonard, it's absolute hell."  As the Doctor

looked on in amazement, Spock buried his face in his hands and

sobbed.

     "It's ok," McCoy put a hand on his shoulder, "It's all right,

Spock.  Let it out. It's ok."

     With difficulty, Spock got control of himself, and ignored

the tears still on his cheeks.  "Your pardon.  That was an

inexcusable emotional outburst, even at this time."

     "A very understandable one, Spock.  Tears can be therapeutic

at times."

     "As can talk."

     "Yes."

     "I knew the parameters of the situation when I bonded with Saavik.

She wants to be a Starship Captain, and she will be.  She has the

drive and the ability."

     "Yes.  She'll be excellent."

     "Of course.  And we'll be apart far more than we are

together, and she'll be doing things that are not always safe.

She'll be taking risks.  She'll be making decisions that could

lead her and others into danger.  I know that, and I accept it.

She wants to command and such risk taking goes

 with it..  I have commanded, and I understand the desire

 to command, although I do not share it."

     "After all these years with Jim, you should understand it."

     "So, I thought I was prepared to see her in risky situations,

that I could accept it so long as I knew she was surrounded by

competent people and was part of a team who look out for each

other.

     "Yet, the first time  she's in a high risk

situation, what do I do but cry like a child - a totally useless

response, and one that would upset her and perhaps undermine her

effectiveness if she knew.  Fortunately, she does not."

     "But your reaction is perfectly understandable.  We talked

about your Vulcan half.  This is your human half - you are newly

married and very much in love and feeling protective and afraid

for her."

     "True.  Of course I love her.  After all, I stood before 400

people and vowed to do so.  But it's not just my human half - in

the best bondings, Vulcans love their bondmates.  My father loves

my mother.

     "But the protectiveness is not logical.  Jim has done

everything he can to minimize the risk to her.  She is doing what

she must as safely as the combined resources of Enterprise and the

Conquestor can arrange."

     "Spock, you'll never be able to view anything that involves

Saavik purely from a logical perspective."

     "You are probable correct.  But that was also true before we

bonded.  The relationship between Saavik and me has always had an

element of illogic. I'm not precognitive, but the first time I met

Saavik I thought I knew her, and considered it vitally important

that this wild child on Hellguard, who was waving a knife at me at

the moment, be given a chance at life.  I told myself this was

irrational.  She was just a child like the others there, but the

feeling was so strong that I took a year's leave from Starfleet,

and spent it getting Saavik ready for life in the civilized

world."

     "So that's what that leave was for.  You just said 'personal

reasons' and I assumed it was a family matter."

     "For years, I tried to discern my motivation.  I could have

left her to be cared for as all the Hellguard children were, could

have encouraged her to claim her Vulcan family as many of them

did.  But no, for reasons I knew were not really reasons, I was

compelled to do as I did because it was somehow a vital matter, a

necessity."

     "Maybe it was precognition.  Maybe on some level you knew she

was destined to be your bondmate."

     "She thinks so, because she had the same compulsion.  When we

had our memorable first encounter, she had just killed another

child for the food he had, and I was injured and practically

immobilized.  I thought she would kill me too for whatever I might

have that she could eat.  That is how it was on Hellguard.  But

something, stopped her and she didn't understand why, what could

be strong enough to overcome hunger - she was literally starving."

     "Love," McCoy nodded. "It was precognition.  You both knew,

at some level of consciousness, what would someday be.  That

overcame your adult Vulcan logic and her child's overwhelming

hunger."

     "Perhaps you are right.  We'll probably never know."

     "Does it really matter?"

     "Not really, and it is rather illogical to intellectually

analyze an emotion."

     "Only Jim Kirk would use that emotion to maintain

communications in a battle," McCoy spoke with sudden bitterness.

"Does he know what he asks of people?"

     "In this case, he doesn't understand the entirety, and I've

chosen not to burden him with it."

     "Maybe somebody should some day.  You and I would follow him

to hell and beyond and so would everyone on this ship.  But there

has to be a limit, and I think he has maybe crossed the line on

this one."

     "No,  Doctor.  This is simply the best way to handle our

present crisis.  If Jim could have placed himself on that ship in

Saavik's place he would have done so.

     "Saavik is the only one who can do what must be done and

she's confident she can do it.  And," Spock gave a sudden half-

smile, "I now find myself confident as well. I believe I'll be

able to sleep now.  You are quite right - tears, and talk, are

therapeutic but..."

     "Don't tell Jim. Of course I won't tell Jim."



          McCoy sat up stiffly.  He'd fallen asleep - finally - in

the chair where he'd been sitting.  The clock said 0735.  He

looked up at Nyota who'd shaken him awake, "I brought you some

coffee.  Real stuff from the officers' mess, not what the

replicators call coffee.  Thought you'd need it."

     He nodded gratefully. 

     "Saw Spock leave here well after 0400.  Figured you'd had a

rough night."

     "You must have too, if you were awake at that hour and saw

him go."

     "Just a few jitters.  I'll be fine when the action starts.

How's Spock?"

     "What would you expect?  The man's over 60 - still young for

a Vulcan I know, but over 60 - and finds himself absolutely,

unreservedly, madly in love for the first time in his life.

     "Married less than a week, and she winds up on a Klingon ship

having to impersonate a Romulan impersonating a Klingon, and the

safety of two ships depends on what she does.  Spock's a nervous

wreck."

     "That's understandable."

     "I think I finally convinced him it was.  But what really

worries me is that he just won't acknowledge the resentment he

must feel towards Jim for getting her into this.  I don't think

Jim really feels in his guts how deeply Spock loves that woman,

and how anything that affects her impacts Spock."

     "Sounds like these are issues that Jim and Spock are going to

have to work out."

     "But will they?"

     "They will, once the crisis is past.  Look at all they've

been through together.  And in the meantime, Leonard, you can't

carry the weight of their problems on your shoulders."

     "It's my job.  Besides that, they, and you lovely lady, are

the best friends I have in the universe."

     "But if it's Spock and Jim's issue, they'll have to deal with

it. You can listen, but you can't get involved."

     "You're right of course.  Jim doesn't really see where Spock

is right now because he's got things on his mind too."

     "So Jim unloads on you, Spock unloads on you, and old Doc

McCoy..."

     "Cries on your shoulder.  I'll stop it.  You're on stage for

today's production, while I've only got a walk-on.  You should be

thinking about your job, not listening to my troubles."

     "What are friends for."

     "As always, I thank you.  But you've got to get to the bridge."

     "My part in this is not difficult.  We've got signals worked

out so that I can let the bridge know when the Romulan ship starts

scanning us, when the Captain is ready in auxiliary control, and

so on.  I'm the communications officer.  I just communicate,

that's all. It will all work out." She gave him a quick hug and

left.



     The tension on the bridge was thick enough to be almost

visible as the clock crept towards 0900.  Kirk decided that he

didn't like this business of knowing when a battle would start so

far in advance.  Everyone was tense, including himself.

     0900. "Captain," Spock said quietly "The curtain is rising on

our little drama."

     "Red alert."  The clanging of the alarm sounded throughout

the ship.

     "Hold on!"  The photon torpedo barely touched the side of the

ship.

     "Screens up, Mr. Sulu. All hands, Battle stations."

     "Uhura, call the Conquestor, put him on the screen. "Kor, you

 deceitful bastard..."

     "Kor has been relieved of his command," Saavik said, somehow

managing to speak English with a Klingon accent.  "And I, unlike

him, will not sacrifice my honor on the altar of peace.  Prepare

to die, Kirk."

     "Subcommander Klea," Kirk said in his best lets-talk-it-over

tone.  "Be reasonable.  The time for war between our peoples is

over.  It was the Empire that sought this peace. Would you be a

traitor to your own people."

     "It is the liverless cowards who came crawling to you who are

the traitors.  I will redeem my people's honor from those cowards.

     "Gunner, fire at will."  

     Heather McConel dashed onto the bridge and took the

Engineering station.  The Lieutenant who handled the helm  on the

evening watch assumed that station and Sulu moved over to the

Weapon's Station.

     "She's in communication with the Romulans," Spock said very

softly standing by Jim's side.  "Since the hit did not detonate

the antimatter bomb, her instructions are to destroy us as 
anticipated.."

     "Evasive action, Mr. Sulu," Kirk said as the phaser fire from

Conquestor missed its mark.

     "Very well, Subcommander, " Kirk said, "You've got your

fight!"  He held his breath until his face turned purple, clutched

his chest in the manner McCoy had suggested, and half slid, half

fell, out of the command seat.

     Spock sat down in the command chair immediately, "Emergency.

Medical team to the bridge.  "Mr.Sulu, return that fire on my

mark.  Mark!"

     Sulu directed his fire to the place where the Conquestor had

been.  The Conquestor was someplace else.

     Uhura gave an agreed upon signal.  They were being scanned.

The Romulan ship was in sensor range.

     McCoy and a medical team rushed onto the bridge and the

Doctor kneeled at the Captain's side.  "He's not breathing," McCoy

shouted and began to administer CPR.

     "Evasive action, Mr. Sulu," Spock ordered calmly.

     Again the shot missed.  Over the open circuit, Saavik began

to curse at Gunner Chekov in rough Klingonese, then turned to face

Spock, "Your Captain is an old man whose heart cannot even take

the stress of battle."

     "And you are a mutinous outlaw.  I know what I would do if I

ever got my hands on you."

     Sulu suppressed his grin and fired once more on Spock's mark.

     "He's breathing now.  Get him to sickbay," McCoy commanded

shrilly.  The medical team placed Kirk on a stretcher and they

left the bridge.

     "Now we will see, Vulcan," Saavik hissed from the command

chair on the Conquestor, "if you are of a better mettle than your

Captain.  I doubt it, however as Vulcans seek at all costs to

avoid battles."

     "But when we must, we fight and fight well . And at least my

Captain has my loyalty, unlike yours.  You are a traitor, and

deserve a traitor's fate."

     "And you are a weakling, a product of a degenerate race that

practices cowardice and calls it logic."

     "While you are of a race that commits treason and calls it

honor."

     Twice more, Chekov and Sulu both missed.  Spock looked

angrily at Sulu, Saavik cursed Chekov.  Chekov fired again, and

the Enterprise barely dogged the shot.

     "Your gunner could not hit this ship if he were standing on

the hull with a phaser," Saavik taunted from the Conquestor.

     "Yours is more likely to hit your own ship than mine." Spock

answered.

     Uhura  signaled that the Captain was at the weapons station

in Auxiliary Control.

     " Come on, Klingon, show what kind of

Commander you are and take control of the weapons station

yourself," Spock called to Saavik. "Or are you an even worse

marksman than your gunner?"

     Sulu got off a shot that blistered the paint on the Conquestor.

     Chekov scored a similar near-hit on the Enterprise.

     Spock got out of the command seat strode angrily over to

Sulu, standing between Sulu and the viewing screen.  "You can do

better than that, Mr.  Sulu."  While he spoke to Sulu, he input

the data on the Romulan vessel's position into the weapons

computer and switched it over to Auxiliary Control.

     He returned to his seat just as Chekov's shot came in.  The

torpedo grazed the top of the ship, directly over the bridge,

Heather tripped the switches at the Engineering station, and the

fireworks show began.

     From many locations on the bridge, hidden canisters belched

thick smoke in various colors, short circuits sparked.  Sulu

collapsed over the weapons station.  McConel beat at the sparks

rising from the Engineering console, then collapsed, gasping from

smoke.  Uhura screamed chillingly.  Spock stood, staggered, fell,

and snaked off the bridge crawling on his stomach under the cover

of the smoke bombs.  One by one, the panels at the stations on the

bridge flickered, went out.

     Outside the ship hell reigned.  Chekov's shot had been dead

on, and set off the proximity fuses on every device Scotty and his

crew had affixed to the hull, in a cascade of a chain reaction that

must have looked most impressive to the watching Romulans.

      On the Conquestor, Saavik took control of the helm and

weapons station, locking in the coordinates of the Romulan ship.


     Spock stood beside Scott in the Transporter Room, every

muscle in his body tensed and waiting.

     "Captain," he spoke into the intercom.  On my mark, lower the

shields."

     On the Conquestor, Saavik lowered its shields so that she and

Chekov could be beamed back aboard the Enterprise.

     "Mark"

     "Shields down"

     "Bring them home, Scotty," Spock shouted.

     Saavik and Chekov shimmered out of existence on the bridge of

Conquestor.  Instantly, Kor  jumped up from the deck and into the

 command chair, firing where the Romulan ship

should be.  The shot missed, but the ion particles from the photon

torpedo showed a vague outline of a ship in their glow.

     Saavik and Chekov materialized on the Enterprise.

     "Shields up. Fire, Jim!"  Spock caught Saavik as her knees

buckled on the transporter pad.

     Kirk fired from the Weapons station in auxiliary control.

     They rushed into auxiliary control just in time to see a

burst of phaser fire from the cloaked Romulan ship rake the bridge

of the Conquestor.

     "Dammit, Kor drew the fire," Kirk muttered.  "He knew

perfectly well we were to fire first.  That's the way we practiced it."

     But the Conquestor fought on, and Kor's second shot, and the

second one from the Enterprise intersected at a seemingly empty

point in space.  There was a blinding flash as the Bird of Prey's

antimatter containment system was breached, and antimatter met

matter.  For a moment, the disintegrating shape of a Romulan bird

of prey was outlined.  Then it was no more.

     Jim got up from the weapons station, sat in the command seat

in Auxiliary Control, thumbed a switch.

     "Stand down from red alert. Attention all members of the

ship's company and our distinguished guests, this is the Captain

speaking.  The Romulan ship has been destroyed and damage to the

Enterprise is insignificant. We sustained no casualties.  I'll

give a more detailed report later.  Kirk out."



     "Captain," Uhura said, "Commander Kor wants to speak to you.

I think he is injured."

     "Put him on."

     Kor was injured, that was obvious.  How seriously Jim

couldn't tell.  The ship's surgeon was urging him to accept

treatment.  In the best Klingon tradition, Kor refused to budge

from the Command seat.

     "Damn it, Kor," Jim exclaimed, "That wasn't part of the plan,

drawing their fire.  All it accomplished was to get you hurt.  The

Enterprise was to fire first."

     "Maybe it wasn't part of your plan, Kirk, but it was part of

mine.   I knew there was no sense arguing with you, so I

just did it.  It gave you valuable seconds you needed to make sure

Saavik and Chekov were transported, get your shields back up, and

time to adjust your aim based on the direction of their fire at

the Conquestor."

     "He's quite right, Captain" Spock spoke.

     "Unfortunately, their phaser fire hit the bridge.  But that

is incidental, the fortunes of war.  What matters is that we won,

Kirk, and won most gloriously.  Yay, the victory is ours!  You and

I, our torpedoes intersecting in space in the apparent nothingness

which held the Romulan ship, then the beautiful flash as matter

met antimatter.

     "You and your people fought most honorably, particularly

Saavik.  After I regained consciousness, I watched her and

listened to her.  She has the courage of a Klingon."

     "Thank you," Saavik replied.

     Kor turned to his surgeon, said something, the doctor

protested, but stepped back.  Kor took his hands away from his

chest.  Kirk gasped.

     "As you can see, Kirk, a piece of flying debris - something

from the navigation station I believe - cut me nearly through.

Today I go to the Black Fleet, but I will go the way a warrior

should, in command of my vessel, exalting over the destruction of

the enemy.  There is nothing my surgeon can do about this wound.

He knows it, and I know it."

     "He's right, Jim."  McCoy said at Kirk's side.

     "See!" Kor said weakly, "Even your surgeon knows a fatal

 injury when he sees one."

     "Spock, take the conn.  Scotty get me over there to the

bridge of the Conquestor."  Kirk and Scotty left auxiliary

control.

     "But there's nothing you can do," McCoy protested to the

Captain's departing back."

     "Yes there is," Spock said.  "He can offer comfort to a dying

friend."

     They watched as Jim materialized on the bridge of the Conquestor.

     "You came.  You did not have to do that," Kor exclaimed, his

 breathing clearly labored.

     "Of course I came.  You would have done the same."

     "It was such a battle, Kirk, very short, the real one that

is, but most well fought.  It does honor to us both.  And it

preserves the peace between our people."

     "Sometimes it is necessary to fight to preserve peace.  That

is something that diplomats sometimes don't understand."

     "Like that idiot last night who suggested you negotiate with

those responsible for placing antimatter bombs on your vessel,"

Kor wheezed.  "Yes we will have peace, but can the peace survive

weak-willed diplomats."

     "There are some good ones who operate from strength - Sarek

and others."

     "Yes, but more who do not.  In the Empire, only those who

have proven themselves strong in battle become Diplomats.  You

should do likewise."

     "Perhaps."

     "The Federation must send only the strong to Klinzhai, only people

who command respect," Kor was whispering now.  Kirk leaned over to

better hear him, and drew the Klingon near.  "People like you.

You."

     Kor grimaced, no longer able to control his pain, " I go to the

 Black Fleet.  I'll wait for you there and we will

fight glorious battles together, like we did today."

     "Yes we will.  I will find honor fighting beside you."

     "And I too." Kor's head fell forward.  He was dead.



     Back on the Enterprise,  Kirk tried to join in the informal 
post-battle 

celebration,  but his  heart wasn't  in it.  Kor's death saddened him,

and more than that, words, Kor's words, kept echoing in Jim's head

- "People like you.  You...People like you.  You..."
 


Path: tivoli.tivoli.com!geraldo.cc.utexas.edu!cs.utexas.edu!howland.reston.ans.net!ix.netcom.com!netnews
From: gini@ix.netcom.com (Virginia Boehm)
Newsgroups: alt.startrek.creative
Subject: Repost - Mission of Honor, part 10 of 15
Date: 31 Mar 1995 11:33:24 GMT
Organization: Netcom
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All Star Trek rights belong to Paramount and this non-commercial fan 
fiction.  There are
elements drawn from various Star Trek novelists, and that's intended as 
flattery.  David 
Dvorkin should be added to that list. The story is mine and is 
copyright, by V.B. Worthen,
1995.  



                                  Chapter 10




     Kirk sat in the command seat on the bridge of the Enterprise

contemplating his future.  By this time tomorrow, they'd be

achieving orbit around Organia.  Until then there was very little

to do, and for the first time in several days, Jim had time to

think about something other than Romulan plots and the safety of

his ship and crew.

     Kor's words, "Someone like you. You." just wouldn't stop

repeating themselves in his head.  And Jim was starting to listen

to them, to think...

     "Spock,  you have the conn.   I'll be in my quarters."

     On his way down to Deck 5, Jim finally admitted to himself

that Kor's words had resonated with an idea that had been in the

back of his mind, perhaps for a long time.

     He asked himself three questions.  Was this what he wanted to

do?  Could he do it?  Could he convince the Federation Council to

let him?."

     In his quarters, he called up his own Starfleet file.  There

was nothing in that file that Jim didn't know about - anyone in

Starfleet always had access to their own record - but looking at

the record, over the years, would help him organize his own

thoughts.  "Code word - Diplomacy" he instructed the computer,

"Print."

     About a dozen pages were spit out before the printer was

through.  He leafed through them.  Yes, a full third of the

missions he'd lead during his years as Captain of the Enterprise

had involved diplomatic activities of one sort or another.  Some

didn't start out that way, but ended up being essentially

diplomatic missions before they were over.  Others, a

substantially smaller number, had started out as diplomacy, but

ended in forceful confrontation.

     But most of his diplomatic endeavors had been successful.

Included in the group were many of the missions that he enjoyed

the most.  He especially enjoyed first contacts, and the

subsequent negotiations needed to bring a newly contacted

civilization into the Federation.  To bring a new world into the

Federation, to add to its nearly infinite diversity, gave Jim a

great deal of personal satisfaction.

     He made another query - how many worlds had the Enterprise

brought in to the Federation during his years as Captain?

Eleven.  Another inquiry.  No other Captain, present or past

could match that number.

     Jim also enjoyed mediating and was usually successful.

During the last several years, Starfleet had been using him

heavily for such missions - dispute mediation, hostage situations,

and other tricky efforts where Jim's skills, backed up by a heavy

cruiser and the Enterprise's (and his own) reputation, had

accomplished feats that in Starfleet's view, could only be done by

Jim Kirk and his crew. 

     Negotiating was fun too, and he'd done plenty of it over the

years.  It was quite a bit like playing poker - knowing when to

bluff, when to raise, and when to fold and cut your losses.  He

remembered some of his negotiations with special fondness - the

gangsters on Iota, who'd understood him perfectly when he cut the

Federation in for a piece of the action, the corbomite bluff early

in the five year mission, so many more.

     In fact, when Nogura had talked him into taking flag rank the

first time, that's the bait he had used - an assignment as a

diplomatic troubleshooter.

     OK, aside from stuffy official functions (and Starship

Captains had to put up with those too), Jim enjoyed what diplomats

did, was good at it, and had a record that proved he was good.

Did he want to do it on Klinzhai?

     He made the assumption that it would be Klinzhai, that

Federation and Empire scientists, working together, would be able

to correct the atmospheric pollution and ozone layer loss caused

by the explosion of Praxis.  Correcting the planet's orbit would

be simple.  All that would take is good calculation and the nerve

to detonate antimatter explosions at the right time and the right

place.  The Klingons could handle that themselves, and certainly

had the requisite courage.

     He chuckled to himself at a memory - the time he'd fallen

into Klingon hands and they had tried to convince him they were in

a future when Admiral James T. Kirk had brought about peace and

become the Federation Ambassador to the Klingon Empire.  What

better way to really give it back to the Klingons than to make

their fake future into the real thing.

     He called up the treaty text and got a hard copy, sat back,

studied, and thought.  The job of actually joining the Federation

and the Klingon Empire would take probably 15 to 20 years.  The

treaty itself did not give a time period, just that such a fusion

was the treaty's the long term goal.  How that goal was to be

achieved was not specified either.  It wouldn't be easy.

There would be some tricky spots, very tricky spots, along the

way.

     One situation that would occur many times would be that some

subject world of the Empire would try to break away and cut it's

own deal with the Federation.  If the Federation would not deal

individually with subject worlds, it might be condoning the

continuance of a brutal government.  If it did, the Empire would

feel betrayed and think the Federation was trying to digest it in

pieces, divide and conquer.  How would Jim Kirk represent the

Federation in such an instance?  He thought - Klingon pride was

touchy, very touchy.  He'd report any feelers from subject worlds

to the Klingon authorities while protecting the identity of the

specific contact person, and offer to mediate whatever the

differences were between the subject people and their rulers.

With a lot of care and a little luck, he might be able to not only

preserve the treaty but correct abuses in the status quo.  It

would require some walking on eggs, but that would be a challenge,

and Jim enjoyed handling the tough ones.

     Then, as more and more beings from more and more Federation

worlds found their way to Klinzhai to trade and exchange

scientific information, there would come a time when the Klingons

would feel their culture under pressure to change.  Well it would

be.  How would Kirk deal with that?  Aside from selling IDIC and

its benefits with a vengeance, he'd focus on the positive aspects

of Klingon culture, and there were quite a few - valor and honor

among warriors, lack of official corruption, a strong family

structure - and make sure the Klingons understood that while

elements of other cultures would enter theirs, it would be a two

way exchange.

     Such cultural exchanges had immensely enriched the worlds of

the Federation and Kirk's own life as well.  Working with beings

of many species had been one of the joys of command for him.

Where, for example, would he be without Spock?  And this trip,

he'd become genuinely fond of Kor and would miss him.

     Kor aside, his dealings with the Klingons during recent years

while tense, had in the end been peaceable more often than not.

He'd learned to respect the Klingons and they in turn respected

him.

     Yes, it would be an exciting 15 to 20 years, and when the day

came that the Empire and the Federation were joined, Jim Kirk

would retire for the second time...

     ...OK Kirk, you've gone and done it. You've convinced

yourself this is what you want to do, and he knew with certainty

that it was.  And you've convinced yourself you can do it.

     Now came the hard part - convincing the Federation's

President and Council.

     Very intently, very systematically, in a manner that was, he

smiled to himself, quite logical, James T.  Kirk, began to map out

his campaign for getting himself appointed Federation Ambassador

to the Klingon Empire.



     First, talk to Sarek.  If Sarek could be convinced,

his recommendation would carry a tremendous amount of weight.

Also talking to Sarek would be good practice for other talks

later.  He marshaled the points he would make to Sarek, and they

fell in line like a well drilled troop of Academy Cadets.

     Then, Nogura.  Also a communication today.  Nogura owed him a

big one after the sneaky trick he'd played.  He'd cash in all his

chips with Heihachiro.  Nogura stood higher in the esteem of the 
Federation

Council than any other being, or at least any other human.  If he

could get Nogura's support, that together with Sarek's, would make

a very powerful combination.

     Then on Organia, the Klingons.  That would be easy, given his

reputation with them.  They respected him, and he'd behave

accordingly.  He'd use that curve ball Nogura had pitched at him

and be Admiral Kirk to the hilt.  He'd strut, he'd wear all his

medals (if he could find space for them), yet he would treat them

honorably as equals, be approachable and reasonable, while being

very careful not to undercut their pride.  If he played it right,

the Klingons would petition to have Kirk made Ambassador.

     He grinned to himself, feeling young again and more alive

than he'd felt in years.  The drifting, the non-direction, the

hesitancy, were all gone.  He was Jim Kirk again.

     Jim, my boy, he told himself, I think you can pull this off,

and I think you've found out what you're going to be when you get

off this ship -an Ambassador, and a damn good one!

     He called Sarek's quarters.

     "Sarek."

     "Jim here.  There's something important I'd like to discuss

with you, if you have time."

     "Certainly."

          Pausing only long enough to call the bridge and let Spock

know where he was going, Jim Kirk was on his way to a new career.



     "What did you want to discuss, Jim?" Sarek asked without

preamble as he gestured towards a chair.  Kirk sat.

     "Ambassador R'yal considers his job as complete on Klinzhai,

now that there is peace between Empire and Federation.  I think

he's quite correct.  Implementing the treaty 

takes different  skills than doing the job R'yal has done -

keeping the lid on, making sure that there were communications

channels, and minimizing the number of armed confrontations.

     "I believe I am very well qualified to do what now must be

done, and I want to do it."

    "You want to be the Federation's Ambassador to the Klingon

Empire and believe yourself qualified for the posting," Sarek

summarized.  He did not sound surprised, but he didn't sound not

surprised either.  This was Sarek the consummate diplomat

speaking.  "Why?"

     "Six reasons."  Jim was ready for that question. "First, the

Klingons' own diplomats are all former officers of the Imperial

Fleet.  High level posts are all held by people who held command

rank.  A retired Starship Captain would fit their concept of what

an Ambassador should be."

     "Especially if that Captain was James T. Kirk."

     "That was my second reason.  The Klingons respect me, both as

a foe and also, on more than one occasion, as a partner and a

temporary ally.  I'm known as a man of my word, and honor is very

important to Klingons.  I would be credible, and could

consequently accomplish  more than someone who would have to spend

the first few years establishing credibility."

     "Please continue."
 
     "Third, I understand how Klingons think, and can work with

them within the framework of their own culture."

     "That is difficult.  Klingons are basically illogical, even

by human standards."

     "No they are not.  The premises upon which much of their

culture is built are illogical, but their behavior once those

premises are accepted as givens, is quite logical.

     "Klingons, at least those of the warrior classes who are the

ones who dominate the government, are brought up to believe that

outside their immediate families, everyone is an enemy unless

proven otherwise.  They believe that one must either be ruler or

ruled, and teamwork is consequently very rare.  So is trust.

     "While trust is rare, once it is given it becomes a matter of

honor, and on matters of honor, Klingons do not compromise.

Betraying the trust of one you have exchanged pledges of trust

with, as Kor and I did, is grounds for a duel, and regardless of

the outcome, disgrace for the betrayer and his family.

     "Once these basic premises are understood and accepted,

working with Klingons is quite easy and their behavior is very

logical, or at the very least predictable."

     Sarek nodded.  "So you are saying that Klingons reason from

premises that, while themselves illogical, lead to predictable

behavior.  Most interesting.  Continue."

     "Fourth, I have extensive experience in bringing worlds into

the Federation.  During my years as Captain, the Enterprise has

been responsible for bringing 11 new members into the Federation.

No other ship and no other Captain can equal that record.  Since

the long term purpose of the treaty is the union of Federation and

Empire, why not give the job of implementing the treaty to the

person with the most experience in doing so."

     "It would seem logical."  Jim thought he saw the flickering

of a reaction on Sarek's ambassadorial face.

     "Fifth, I would see the task through for the 15 to 20 years

it would take."

     "Very close to my estimate," Sarek nodded.

     "I would not be using it as a stepping stone to something

else.  I am not a Federation  political insider, nor do I have an

interest in becoming one.  Power is not something that motivates

me.  Achievement does.  I would do the job for its own sake, not

to further some other ambition."

     Sarek nodded. "I agree."

     "Sixth and finally, this task, particularly during four

critical periods, is going to require someone with a proven

ability to respond to crises and advert them when possible.  No

job provides better training in crisis management than that of a

Starship Captain."

     "These four critical periods.  What are they?"

     "The first will come an a year to a year and a half as

reactionary elements on Klinzhai come to grips with the

ramifications of the treaty.  Once they have studied it in detail,

they will see it as a threat to their sovereignty and way of life.

     "They will take action, desperate action.  They will attempt

to discredit me, the Federation, attack the embassy, league

themselves with the Romulans again, you name it.  It is vitally

important respond to these difficulties with sufficient force to

show firmness of intent, but with less force than would injure

Klingon pride.  In other words, I may have to fight a duel or two,

but hope I don't have to holler for help from Starfleet.

     "The second critical period will be probably 4 to 6 years

into the treaty, when Klingon subject worlds attempt to bypass

their rulers and seek admission to the Federation as independent

members.  It would be so tempting to admit them, particularly if

their rulers are of the inept or brutal sort.  But the treaty

clearly states that the Klingon Empire is to be dealt with by the

Federation as a unit, and while I would offer to mediate any local

disputes, I must preserve the structural integrity of the Empire.

     "Soon after that issue is resolved, the third critical period

will arrive.  At that time, the very slow and gradual amalgamation

of the Imperial Fleet and Star Fleet will have reached a point

where there will be a real danger of a military coup.  While this will

be basically an internal Klingon matter, some form of Federation

involvement is inevitable since the treaty and the actions under

it will be viewed as the direct cause of the crisis.  My task will

be to prevent this coup from getting off the ground by working

with Star Fleet and the Imperial Fleet almost from Day One of the

treaty to assure a transition process that is smooth, nearly

seamless, and that respects the traditions of the Imperial Fleet.

     "The fourth critical period will start when the date union

will take place is determined.  When the Klingon Empire becomes a

sub-federation within the Federation as other groups of planets

have, some will feel that it is somewhat diminished by being a

part of a larger whole.  My task then will be a persuasive one,

convincing the Klingons that rather than having diminished

stature, they have enlarged scope, and will have a voice and a

vote in determining the direction for the Federation as a whole."

     Jim stopped himself, "I'm talking as if I actually have the

job."

     Sarek gave one of his very rare smiles. "So far as I'm concerned,

 you do.  Your logic is compelling regarding

your qualifications, and your understanding of the Klingons and of

the task to be accomplished goes beyond my own.

     "I will gladly use such influence as I have, and such

persuasive skills as I possess to get you appointed. I don't think you

will have to wait long for a decision.

     Jim sat back, stunned. "It was that easy? I thought you might

think I was totally demented even thinking myself worthy of such a

posting, or that my reasoning might be faulty, or my grasp of the

situation superficial at best."

     "Your logic was flawless, very Vulcan."

     "I've had an excellent teacher for many years."

     "And my son has learned much from you as well.  Have you told

 him about your plans?"

     "Not yet.  I wanted to talk to you first, then Heihachiro

Nogura.  If I can obtain the support of Admiral Nogura as I have

yours, for which I thank you, then I thought I'd mention it to

Spock and to Leonard McCoy, but no one else on the Enterprise.

Not until I actually have the appointment.

     On Organia... may I have your advice?"

     "Certainly."

     "Do I openly indicate that I want the posting, drop hints, or

ignore the topic?  President Ra-ghoratrei may or may not mention

it directly to me, but others certainly will, and anything I say

to anyone will be known to everyone."

     "What would you do if you had to act in the absence of advice

from me?"

     "I wouldn't mention it directly, unless asked directly, but

 if approached, would say I might consider it under certain

 conditions.  I'd be a little hard to get, but not out of reach."

     Sarek nodded, "That's just what I would have suggested.  You

have good instincts on these matters.  Follow them.

     "This has got to be a first - a Vulcan telling a Human to

follow his instincts."

     "Of all the infinite diversities, the human is the one I

know best beside my own.  Some gifted humans - you are one, Amanda

is another, Leonard McCoy is a third - have an ability to short

circuit logic in a way that I do not understand.  You call it

instinct.  That may or may not be a accurate term.  But I do know

that what you do produces results.  It is part of what has made

you an outstanding Starship Captain, and it will make you an

outstanding Ambassador as well."

     "I hope I can live up to your expectations, Sarek."

     "I know you will.  And you'll live up to your own

expectations as well.  You've found what I believe is the ideal

next career both for yourself and for the Federation."



     Jim left Sarek's quarters whistling.  Now, Nogura.  What did

his instincts tell him about the best way to approach Nogura?  Not

a face-to-face.  Not with a subspace delay of over 5 minutes at

this distance.  Not even a visual.  He wanted Nogura to  deal with

only the logical inevitability of what Jim was proposing.  He must

not be seen as asking a favor from Nogura, hat in hand.  No, he

had to be viewed as offering Nogura a solution to a problem.  The

fact that Nogura owed him some favors should operate on Nogura's

conscience, but should not be referred to directly.

     He worked on the message until it felt right to him - Sarek

had said to trust his instincts - made up a data solid, and

returned to the bridge.



     Spock's eyebrow raised in an unspoken query as Kirk returned

 to the bridge."

     "Tell you later," Kirk whispered so that only Spock could

hear, then continued, "My duties off the bridge are completed

 for now.  This is the last of the lot," he handed the data

 solid to Uhura. "Send this to Admiral Nogura, eyes-only."

     "Transmitting, Captain."

     Before the end of the watch, Nogura's brief reply came.  "You

 have my support.  Proceed."
 



Path: tivoli.tivoli.com!geraldo.cc.utexas.edu!cs.utexas.edu!howland.reston.ans.net!ix.netcom.com!netnews
From: gini@ix.netcom.com (Virginia Boehm)
Newsgroups: alt.startrek.creative
Subject: Repost - Mission of Honor, part 11 of 15
Date: 31 Mar 1995 12:55:52 GMT
Organization: Netcom
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Distribution: world
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Xref: tivoli.tivoli.com alt.startrek.creative:7604

Star Trek belongs to Paramount.   This non-commercial fan fiction 
belongs to me -
copyright V.B. Worthen, 1995. 



                            Chapter 11



     "Don't anybody dare laugh," Kirk warned as he joined the

others in the transporter room.

     "How could we laugh, when we're awed by such magnificence,

Admiral," McCoy deadpanned.

     "Indeed, sir," Spock joined in.

     Jim gritted his teeth trying not to look as uncomfortable

as he felt in the dress uniform, heavily weighed down by medals

and ribbons, and wearing an Admiral's rank insignia. "I'm Jim

dammit, don't call me Admiral unless you absolutely have to."

     "The things we do for the Federation,  Hikaru Sulu

sympathized, with a grin.

     Kirk nodded, "Well, all the diplomatic parties are there

already, so I guess we should join them.  Beam us down,

Scotty, and tell Chekov to take good care of my ship."

     "Aye, Captain."

     "Thank you."

     "Thanks for what?"

     "You called me Captain."

     "Energizing," Scott smiled.

     Jim would have liked to have all his senior officers attend

the treaty signing ceremony, but Starfleet and the Organians had

both been adamant about not overwhelming the Klingons with

vastly superior numbers. 

     Along with the four officers and the top cut of the

diplomats aboard the Enterprise, the President of the

 United Federation of Planets, the Chair of the Federation 

Council, and, Ambassador R'yal, the outgoing Federation 

Ambassador to the Klingon Empire,

had made a direct trip to Organia.

       Jim was glad they hadn't been on the Enterprise. The trip

 had been harrowing enough without having to content with

 unsolicited input from the Federation's top officials.

He reminded himself to   be on his best behavior

 towards them here on Organia.  If all

went well, they were about to become his new bosses.

     The Organians had assured him that the ceremony would be

shown on the viewing screens on the Enterprise.  What sort of

technology they would use to bring this about was unclear, but if

they said it would be on the screens, it would be. 

     The officers from the Conquestor met them at the beam down

point.  Jim missed Kor, even though he knew Kor had died exactly

as he wished to die, after winning a battle, in the command chair

of his own ship.  The Second Officer, Kral, had assumed command,

and was accompanied by the Chief Engineer and the Surgeon.

     "General Kreath is expected momentarily," Kral informed them.

"After Commander Kor went to the Black Fleet so gloriously,

 there was no one of suitable rank to sign the

treaty for the Imperial Fleet, so Kreath, who coordinates defenses

in the quadrant closest to  the neutral zone is coming at top warp

speed."

     "Kirk," Arnath the Surgeon drew him to one side.  "Kor told

me before he died that he wished you to have his klin zha set.  He

said you'd know why."

     Jim nodded, "That was most kind of him. I will keep Kor's

 klin zha set safe, and perhaps, when I

go join him in the Black Fleet, we can play between battles."

     Arnath smiled and Jim knew he'd said the right thing.

     The  shimmer of a Klingon transporter beam formed, and a very

old Klingon, who wore as many decorations as Kirk, materialized.

"General Kreath" Jim extended his arm in the Klingon salute.

     The Klingon eyed Kirk's rank insignia, "Admiral Kirk," the

General returned the salute, then shook his hand in the human

manner.  "The Kirk.  We meet at last. You are well known in the

Empire."

     "And hope to become even better known, helping implement and

advance the peace between our people.  Come," Admiral James T.

Kirk gathered up both parties with his eyes, "We're keeping the

Organians waiting."

     "He's good at this," McCoy whispered to Spock as they walked

behind Kirk and the General.  You'd think he'd been a diplomat all

his career."

     "In one sense, perhaps he has."

     "What do you mean?

     "He's been mediating our disputes, Doctor, for over 27 years."

     McCoy looked carefully at Spock.  Yes, there was a definite

 gleam in his eye.  "Why Spock, you just told a joke!"



     Everything we see is an illusion, Kirk reminded himself.  The

Organians are pure energy beings who can create whatever

environment they want us to see.  But the illusion was most

impressive.  From outside the building  appeared to be Doric

Greek crossed with Klingon elements, a bit heavy but with 

a definite classic look.

     The Great Hall beyond the entrance foyer was exactly the

correct size -  large enough to convey spaciousness and

 grandeur without being so large as to dwarf those

assembled.  Massed banners of the Empire and the Federation were

scattered about the room.

     The Enterprise and Conquestor personnel were conveyed to

their seats by an Organian page in a silk-looking robe who

appeared to be about eighteen and who was probably closer to

eighteen million.  As they had before, the Organians assumed a

generally benign, non-threatening humanoid appearance.

      Kirk and General Kreath  were shown to their places at

a table in front where they were seated with the others who would

 be signing the treaty.

     There was a pause, a hushed waiting that went on long enough

to assure attention.  Where an empty space had been, there was

suddenly an Organian, Ayelborne, Jim recognized, elaborately robed

in contrast to his simple garb on the earlier visit to Organia,

and even more dignified.

     "Honored guests, distinguished representatives of the United

Federation of Planets and the Klingon Empire, welcome to Organia."

     Ayelborne continued, "Approximately 25 standard years ago,

when we were forced to intervene in the conflict between your

peoples, we foresaw the day that a true peace would be made

between Empire and Federation.  It is with great pleasure that we

see come to pass that which we foretold.

     "The ones to whom we made that prophecy, James T. Kirk of the

United Federation of Planets and Kor tri n'Granth of the Klingon

Empire were somewhat skeptical."

     Jim remembered.  'Somewhat skeptical' was an understatement.  They 
had

practically jeered at him.

     "But they were both quite young at the time and allowance

must be made for youth."

     Jim put on his best poker face and hoped Ayelborne would

change the subject - soon.  OK, he and Kor had been a couple of

hot heads.  Did Ayelborne have to dwell on it.

     "That youth does give way to maturity and impulsiveness to

wisdom was born out by what happened to Kirk and Kor on the way to

Organia.  Yes, you were being monitored.  You were invited to

Organia, James Kirk, as was Kor, because we wanted to verify that

this peace would work.  We are convinced.   Just as

Kirk and Kor became friends, and came to trust each other even

with the safety of one another' vessels, so will your peoples

come to trust one another.

     "While we do not approve of violence, we recognize that the

Romulans presented Kirk and Kor with a situation that strictly

limited their alternatives.  We are also aware that the Praetor's

government has denied any official knowledge of this outrage."

     He doesn't believe that any more than I do, Kirk noted,

watching the official Romulan observer squirm under Ayelborne's

steady gaze.

     "Kor tri n'Grath died a  hero to both the Empire and the 

Federation and we of Organia honor him as well."

     Ayelborne paused, then clapped solemnly.  Jim did likewise,

stood, and in moments the entire hall rang with a standing ovation

for Kor.

    The Organian waited for silence.  "We of Organia have every

confidence that the peace signed today will be a lasting peace.

     "The road will not be smooth, nor will it be short, but if

people of the caliber of Kor tri n'Grath and James T. Kirk lead

the forces of peace, your endeavors will be successful."

     Hot damn! Jim thought to himself.  I think Ayelborne just

nominated me for Ambassador. Vaguely in a corner of his

 mind he sensed a pleased reaction from the back of

 the room - Spock, he knew.  These occasional, unintentional

 mental links with Spock had long been part of his life, and

 were as close to telepathy as he would ever get.

     Another Organian Kirk recognized, Trefayne, appeared also

from nowhere to stand beside Ayelborne carrying  bound paper

copies of the treaty.  Along with electronic records, the

Organians had insisted on paper copies and neither the Federation

or the Empire had any reason to object.  There were five of them,

one each for Imperial Fleet Headquarters, Starfleet Headquarters,

the Klingon High Council, the Federation Council, and one that

would remain on Organia. These were placed on a small table next

to the larger one where Kirk and the others. There was what

appeared to be an antique quill pen and an ink stand on the table.

     
     "The Honorable Ra-ghoratrei of Delta, President of the United

Federation of Planets." Ayelbourne announced.   Ra-ghoratrei walked

 with the inimitable Deltan grace over to the table, and signed the 

copies in his flowing script.

     "The Honorable Azetbur ri g'Gorkon, Chancellor of the Klingon

High Council.  The impressive, stately, Klingon woman Kirk had met

before moved gravely to the table and signed with a thoughtful

look on her face.

     "Sarek of Vulcan, Designated Representative of the

Ambassadors of the Federation Worlds."  Sarek signed solemnly,

 aware of the historic importance of this occasion.

     "General Kreath sri' g'Giff, Designated Representative of the

Imperial Fleet."  Kreath moved slowly to the table, and equally

slowly signed each copy, with care.

     "Admiral James T. Kirk, Designated Representative of

Starfleet."  Jim stood and walked to the table.  It was one of the

proudest moments of his life.  He almost forgave Nogura the

stealth promotion.

     But not quite.  He compliantly signed his name on the line

next to "Admiral James T. Kirk" on four of the copies, then, on

the last one, the one that would be displayed at Starfleet

headquarters, took the pen, scratched out "Admiral" and wrote in

"Captain" before signing his name.  Take that Heihachiro, he

smiled to himself.

     
   While the setting might be illusionary, the food and drink at

the reception that followed was real, and

excellent.  Jim stood with Spock and his parents, eating a

delicate Deltan pastry that tasted like a spring day, and sipping

from a glass of what appeared to be the finest vintage Bordeaux

Earth could provide.

     "You appeared a bit disconcerted by some of Ayelborne's

remarks," Amanda noted.

     "Yes, I was.  After all, it is somewhat embarrassing to be

reminded of one's misspent youth.  Kor and I were a couple of

young hot heads when we first met.  Neither of us was exactly

trying to avoid a confrontation, and neither of us considered that

it might be possible to negotiate our differences."

     "However, Jim, those comments of Ayelborne's will stand you

in good stead in your current endeavor," Spock pointed out.  "He

very clearly indicted that he saw an important role for you in the

process of peace."

     "Yes, he did."

     "I wonder how Kor would have reacted to what Ayelborne said,"

Amanda speculated.  "I think it would have been more difficult for

him to sit silent and keep quiet than it was for you."

     "Probably.  Kor tried very hard, but had a problem

reconciling himself to peace.  He trusted me on a personal

level, but would have had an difficult time accepting peace

between our peoples as a way of life."

     "It is difficult to go beyond hate, beyond reflexes that urge

aggression, to overcome ingrained prejudice.  But you have done

so, Jim, and this ability to continue to grow, to continue to

change, to more than adapt, and to lead others as they do so, will

make you a great ambassador."

     "I greatly appreciate your confidence, Sarek."

     "However, more than my confidence will be required.  My

persuasive abilities must also be used.  If you will excuse me, I

will go have some words with Ra-ghoratrei."



     "Jim," said a strident voice, taking him by the elbow and

steering him away from Spock and Amanda."

     "You're looking well, Jasmine," he said resignedly.  Jasmine

alFaisal was not one of his favorite people.  But she was this

year's Chair of the Federation Council and thus someone whose

support he needed.  He would be officially nominated for the

Ambassadorship by Ra-ghoratrei, but the nomination must be

approved by the Federation Council.

     "So you are an Admiral again, Jim.  I was somewhat surprised

when Nogura insisted, but of course the Council went along."

     "It was just for ceremonial purposes. 

But rest assured, once the ceremonies are over, I will return to

my permanent rank and retire as Captain Kirk."

     "Your retirement is coming soon, I know.  Tell me, have you

given any thought to your post-retirement plans?"

     "Of course I have.  I seem to have a number of possibilities

to chose from.  A large passenger liner company has approached me

about becoming Commodore of its fleet.  Starfleet would like me to

be a part-time special consultant and lecturer.  A university has

requested that I become Dean of their Applied Sciences program.

There are other options as well."

     "I've heard a rumor that you are being considered as

Ambassador to the Empire, that the Klingons have suggested you."

     "Indeed," Jim said noncommittally, raising an eyebrow in a

gesture copied directly from Spock.

     "Did you know anything about it?"

     "There are always rumors, so many rumors.  It seems quite

plausible that I would be the subject of some of them."

     "Well, would you be interested."

     "It would certainly be an honor to be considered, and I would

give the matter serious thought.  But wouldn't I be a rather

unlikely candidate?  I have not always been viewed as a friend of

the Klingon Empire."

     "They respect you, Jim.  You seem to understand them and know

how to work with them.  This business with Kor. From what I've

heard about the details, he actually let one of your officers

command his ship in battle."

     "Kor and I were personal friends. There is a long way between

being trusted by a friend and being trusted by the Klingon government."

     "The way may not be that long," Azetbur joined them.  "The

last time we met, you saved my life.  The time before that, I saw

you sentenced to Rura Penthe.  I was certain you had conspired to

bring about my father's death, and I was certainly wrong."

     "I too was blinded by bigotry, Chancellor," Jim nodded,

"While I did my duty I didn't believe that the Empire was sincere

in seeking peace.  I took my anger at the Klingon who killed my

son and generalized it to the entire race.  That is prejudice,

plain and simple."

     "Yet you overcame it, saved my life, and made this peace we

signed today possible."

     "Just as you overcame your prejudice and didn't let yourself

be distracted from the road of peace by General Chang and others."

     "Yes, James T. Kirk, I believe we would work together well,

you and I, and hope to have the opportunity to welcome you to

Klinzhai as the Federation's Ambassador.  I hope this is what you

want, since I have already told  President Ra-ghoratrei that this

is the wish of my government.

     "If you are offered the post as the Federation's Ambassador

to the Empire, will you accept it?"

     "Yes, Chancellor Azetbur, I will accept it and regard it as a

high honor."



     "Admiral Kirk.

     "Yes."

     "Permit me to introduce myself.  I am Takarun, the new

Romulan Ambassador, replacing the traitor Nanclus."

     Jim shook the outstretched hand with a notable lack of

enthusiasm. "Ambassador Takarun, this is a great day, is it not.

The beginning of a new era of peace between the Federation and the

Klingon Empire."

     "Indeed it is a great day.  Hopefully, one day soon a similar

treaty will exist between the Federation and the Romulans and our

allies."

     "Anything is possible," Jim shrugged.

     "Of course, once misunderstandings are put behind us.  As you

know, my government and I deeply regret the attack made on your

ship and the Conquestor by remnants of the forces of the traitor

Nanclus.  There was no official role played in this by any

representative of the Praetor."

     "I assumed as much," Kirk forced a smile. "And that is why I

did not involve Starfleet Command in my action on the matter."

     "You dealt with the matter simply as a case of deep space

piracy?"

     "Yes, and I am pleased you have confirmed my judgment."

     "Obviously, we wish to punish those responsible.  Let us

arrange for Praetor's government to take charge of the prisoners

aboard your vessel."

     Jim shook his head. "If they had been acting with the

sanction of your government, we would use the good offices of the

Organians to repatriate your people as we have done in past

instances of hostilities between us.  But they acted without your

sanction.  Therefore, they will stand trial for their crimes under

Federation and Klingon law."

     "But this is most irregular.  Prisoners are always repatriated."

     "Prisoners of war, certainly.  But, by your own statement,

these are simply pirates."

     Ayelborne suddenly appeared next to Kirk.  "Ambassador,

Admiral Kirk is correct.  Since your government disallows all

knowledge of the actions of these individuals, it has no claim on

them.  Of course, should your government accept responsibility for

their actions..."

     "We do not," Takarun said stiffly, and walked away.

     The Organian appeared to be smiling, but then, Jim told

himself, the Organians could appear anyway they liked, "Poor

Ambassador Takarun.  Now he won't be able to find out how the

Romulan plot went astray and was defeated.  Your and Kor's most

elegant scheme will remain unknown.  That will annoy him and his

superiors no end."

     "I take it you don't believe the Romulan government's denial

of responsibility."

     "We of Organia know it is not true.  No ship, cloaked or

otherwise, can come so close to Organia and not be monitored.

     "Hopefully, the Romulan will be sufficiently cowed by the

alliance between the Federation and the Empire to behave

themselves better in the future.  We find intervening in the

affairs of others distasteful and hope not to have to do so again

in the near future."

     "I hope we can keep the peace now that we have it."

     "If it is up to you, James Kirk  - and that is what we want -

we believe that you can do so."



     " Ambassador R'yal," Jim acknowledged the diplomat who

approached him.  This is a great day and one that

you have labored long and hard to bring about."

     "It has been a lengthy process," the Ambassador nodded, "and

a tiring one.  Yet it is with a great deal of personal satisfaction 

that I can consider my task complete and return to Centaurus."

     "Centaurus is a lovely place.  I own property there and may

retire there myself some day."

     "But not in the near future, I presume,"  General Kreath joined the 

conversation.  "With the departure of Ambassador R'yal there is

 need on the Federation's part for a new

Ambassador to Klinzhai .  Chancellor Azetbur has suggested you for the

position, and will bring the matter before the High Council.


     "It would indeed be a challenge and an honor, but the

appointment will be made by President Ra-ghoratrei 

and confirmed by the Federation Council."

     "Chancellor Azetbur has already spoken to Ra-ghoratrei about

it," Kreath noted.  "And her wishes will be very heavily weighed."

     "I will see you next on Klinzhai, Kirk, when you come to

present your credentials."    General Kreath drifted

back to the buffet table.

     "I don't know why you want this job, Admiral Kirk, or even if

you do want it.  Six years on Klinzhai is enough for me, in fact

too much for me.  Every time I think something has been

accomplished, it turns out that there is some faction that has not

been considered, or someone's pride has been injured, or the

person you are dealing with has been overthrown or come out the

loser in a duel over some obscure matter of honor.

     "If it hadn't been for the explosion on Praxis, we still

would not have a treaty.  And I am not sure this is the sort of

treaty we should have."

     "Oh."

     "A simple non-aggression pact, a trade agreement, we should

have left it at that.  This business of eventually bringing the

Empire into the Federation is not in my opinion a good idea."

     "Why not."

     "Klingons are Klingons and will always be Klingons.  I can

work with them.  I have met a few who I have come to regard as

friends, but I could never trust them as a race."

     "Trust is not something that exists between races or species.

Trust is something that exists between people and can only come

about when people regard each other as people, and not in terms of

generalities or stereotypes."

     "You are an idealist, Admiral Kirk."

     "In a way.  There are ideals I believe in strongly and have

sought through my years in Starfleet to translate into action."

     "And have done so very well indeed."  Jim had not noticed Ra-

ghoratrei's approach.  "If the Admiral's an idealist, R'yal, he is

a most practical and realistic one."

     R'yal forced a smile, "I know.  It's just that I've been too

long on Klinzhai.  Someone new is needed now to implement the

treaty we have signed today."  He turned and walked away, "I'm

heading for the bar.  Can I get either of you a drink."

     "No thank you."

      "This isn't exactly the best day R'yal has ever had," Ra-

ghoratrei explained.  He motioned with his head and he and Kirk

stepped outside the Great Hall into the privacy of the atrium.

     "On the one hand, he does not approve of this treaty."

     "He told me that."

     "But on the other hand, he is upset that the diplomatic

contingent chose Sarek, and not him, to sign it as their

representative."

     "It is difficult for him."

     "The difficulty goes deeper than that.  He probably has heard

that an unwritten provision of the treaty is that someone else be

named as Ambassador as soon as possible after the treaty is

signed.  Fortunately, he had the good grace and good sense to resign."

     "That is not an easy position to be in."

     "Part of our unwritten agreement with the Klingons is that

their High Council will have substantial influence over our

decision concerning who is named as Ambassador.  As I am sure you

know, Azetbur wants it to be you.

     "There's been talk about it all day, but you have to be

officially asked at some point so I'm asking . I want to

send your nomination  to the Federation Council for confirmation.  If 
you are

nominated and confirmed, will you accept the position?"

     "I will.  I want this post and believe I can do the job well."

     "So do I.  So does Admiral Nogura.  Sarek thinks so too.  The

 Organians want you, as do the Klingons.  We can't all be wrong."

     " I won't let you down."

     " I know.  I'll  pass the nomination 

on to Jasmine today, with a strong suggestion that the Council handle

it by sub-space radio, and soon.  If they move expeditiously, the

appointment will have been approved before you return to Earth and

will take effect immediately upon your retirement from Starfleet."

     "Good.  There's a lot to do, and the sooner I start, the

better."



     Jim was still standing outside the hall when Sulu approached,

"Jim, I can't help having overhead all the talk today.  Are you

really going to become an Ambassador, and to the Klingons?"

     "If the Federation Council approves the appointment, I am.

It's what I want to do next.  It's time to move on.  But I'm too

 young to just do nothing.  Over the years, I've learned a thing 

or two and am looking for a new challenge.  This is it."

     "I think you're perfect for the post."

     "Please don't tell anyone else aboard the Enterprise.  I'm

still a Starship Captain and that's how I want to be viewed for

the rest of this trip, and how I view myself."

     "Understood."

     "Speaking of the Enterprise, I think this reception is winding 
down.  See if you

can round up Spock and Dr. McCoy.  Let's say our temporary

farewells to our Organian hosts and get back to the ship."

     "You've a formal dinner to host this evening aboard the

Enterprise."

     "I know. And I'd like to have a few hours to clear my head

first."



     "With any sort of luck," McCoy commented a little later in

the Enterprise's transporter room, "Tonight will be the last time

ever that I have to wear Starfleet dress uniform.

     "Before the end of this voyage, I'm going to have a little

ceremony - take the sharpest scissors I can find in sickbay, cut

that dress uniform into shreds, and dump it down the recycling

chute, punctuating the event with generous gulps of Saurian

Brandy."

     "A most illogical action,  Doctor."

     "But one that will give me considerable pleasure.  I'll have

that little ceremony and you're invited.  You too, Jim."



     "Scotty, may I see you for a minute." Jim stopped Montgomery

Scott as the others left the transporter room.

     "I noticed that you beamed us down to Organia earlier today,

and were here again when we returned.  Any particular reason

you're doing the Transporter Chief's job?  And I've noticed that

whenever I call Engineering, it's you answering the call, even

when you are supposed to be off duty."

     "Might have known ye'd notice, Captain."

     "I did."

     "I'm figuring - another week or so is all the time I have as

a Chief Engineer, all the time this ship has.  I want to do

everything.  Keep busy, pile up memories."

     "Thought so.  Scotty, you feel the same way about this ship

as I do."

     "Aye. And I'm thinking its a crime, an absolute crime, what

Starfleet is doing - decommissioning a perfectly good ship.  Why

she's got the highest operating efficiency in the fleet."

     "Thanks to you.  You've held her together and done things

with the engines their designers never thought of."

     "Almost wish I hadna'.  A lot of the improvements I jury

rigged on the Enterprise are standard on all new vessels, and

designers have taken off from there and done things impossible for

the Enterprise.  What I did helped make the Enterprise obsolete in

the eyes of Starfleet command."

     "What you've done is known and appreciated.  If it wasn't,

you wouldn't be about to become head of the Engineering Department

at Starfleet Academy.  I'm retiring, but you'll still be in

Starfleet."

     "Don't know whether my new job will agree with me, but I'm

going to stick with Starfleet at least until I complete 50 years

of service.  Won't be long now.  But even if I do like it, it

won't be the same."

     "No, it won't.  When I take the Enterprise into dock for the

last time, its going to tear me up, Scotty.  Twenty seven years on

this Enterprise and the original one.  It's hard to let go.  And

you've been aboard longer and it'll be even rougher on

you.  I want you on the bridge when we dock.  Maybe we can help

each other get through it."

     "I'll be there."

     "And you know what would please me, and maybe you too -

breaking our own overall systems efficiency record on our last

mission.  What was our last one, an average of 104.3% across all

systems?"

     "It was, and yet another Starfleet record.  No reason we

can't go for 105, maybe even a bit more if we really push.  Aye,

that would delight me and show up those fools who've decided to

decommission the best ship in the fleet. We'll do it Jim."

     "I know you will."

     "That will show them."

     "That it will."

     "And Scotty, that gives me another idea - What would you

think about coordinating with Maintenance and seeing what we can

do to patch up those battle scars on her hull.  Maybe some new

plates, some paint."

     "I see...Let's bring her in not only runnin like she was a

 brand new ship, but lookin that way too.  Aye, I like it."

     "Then see to it, Scotty. 

     "I will.  She'll do us all proud, Captain."
 


Path: tivoli.tivoli.com!geraldo.cc.utexas.edu!cs.utexas.edu!howland.reston.ans.net!ix.netcom.com!netnews
From: gini@ix.netcom.com (Virginia Boehm)
Newsgroups: alt.startrek.creative
Subject: Repost - Mission of Honor, part 12 of 15
Date: 31 Mar 1995 20:36:56 GMT
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Paramount owns Star Trek.  This is non-commercial fan fiction,etc.etc.
Copyright, V. B. Worthen, 1995
  



                                 Chapter  12




     "Captain," Uhura said trying unsuccessfully to keep the

surprise from her voice. "President Ra-ghoratrei is calling. Says

the matter is confidential."

     "I'll take it in my quarters."

     Kirk had been polishing instruments in Auxiliary Control.

The concept of taking the ship in looking brand new had spread

throughout the ship and captured the imagination of everyone.  Not

just Engineering, not just repairing the scars on the hull, but

everything, everyone.  Here was a way for the Enterprise's crew to

express their feelings about the ship, the years they had served

together, and all the Enterprise had meant to them.

     All hands, including her captain, joined in and the

Enterprise bustled with work parties, frequently made up of people

officially off duty and informally organized.  She smelled of

polish, cleansers, and fresh paint.  The Enterprise had always

been well maintained, but now was developing a sparkle and shine

that would put any other ship in the fleet to shame.

     Jim hurried to his quarters.  It was only three days since

they'd left Organia.  Apparently the Federation Council had been

meeting by subspace radio.  This soon, Jim told himself, the news

is likely to be good.

     It was.

     "Jim," Ra-ghoratrei told him, "The Klingons wanted you; Sarek

pushed it; Nogura urged them; even the Organians made their wishes

clearly known to the Council.   Your appointment as the Federation's

 Ambassador to the Klingon Empire has been approved.

     "I don't know why you want to take on what's shaping up to be

the toughest job in the Federation.  But you told me you wanted

it, and I wanted you to have it."

     "Perhaps I want it because it probably is the toughest job in

the Federation.  I've been a Starship Captain for a long time, a

very long time.  I want a new challenge, and I need one."

     "You definitely have a new challenge.  I'll be sending you

quantities of material, and R'yal will be virtually copying his

files for you.  Even before you get back to Earth, you'll be up to

your eyeballs in your new job."

     "You've told R'yal?"

     "Not officially.  That's my next call.  But he knows."

     "Call R'yal.  But could you hold public announcement for

about 12 hours.  There are some people I want to let know about

this before they find out through the media."

     "Will do.  I think we'll be able to work together well."

     "I should warn you that I have a chronic tendency towards

insubordination.  Just ask Heihachiro."

     "He's already told me.  We'll get along fine.  He also said

you should check your Starfleet personnel file."

     "I'll do that.  How long before you anticipate I'll be on my

way to Klinzhai?"

      "A couple of months.  You'll need time to put a staff

together, plan the transition, and so on."

      "The first thing I'll need is high speed language training.  My

Klingonese is pretty much limited to battle language and curses."

     "It will be waiting for you when you get back to Earth."

     "Fine.  And on staff. I'd like to keep as many of R'yal's

people as I can, at least until I have time to form impressions of

them.  But there are two positions I want to fill myself right

away."

     "Which ones."

     "Chief of Staff and Medical Director."

     "Fine.  That makes sense.  Do it. You should have your own

people in those jobs from the start."

     "Other changes can wait until I review the personnel files."

     "They'll be ready for you to review.   Anything else that we

 need to get started on now?"

     "Don't think so, but if something comes up before I get back,

I'll call.  I really appreciate being given this opportunity."

     "And I appreciate your willingness to take the job on.

You'll be good.  I'm convinced of it.  Ra-ghoratrei out."



     Jim thought a minute, then called the bridge, "Uhura, see if

you can track down Jasmine alFaisal for me.  She may still be on

Organia."

     She was.

     "I'm calling to thank you, Jasmine.  I just talked to Ra-

ghoratrei and want to let you know I'll work hard to justify your

confidence and that of the Council."

     "I know you will.  And you'll work your tail off.  We moved

 fast, very fast, not because of the pressure being put on us, but

 because we know you're the best person for the job, and if we'd

 waited too long you might have come to your senses and

 withdrawn."

     "Not a chance."

     "Why in hell does anybody want that job?"

     "Because it has to be done, and I have to do something, and

 what the job needs and what I bring seems to be a good match."

     "Sounds very logical.  You've been hanging around Vulcans too

long."

     "Spending time with Klingons should clear my head of

excessive logic."

     Jasmine laughed.  "And just because you'll be working for Ra-

ghoratrei, don't forget who confirmed you in the post."

     "I won't forget.  You wouldn't let me.  Kirk out."



     The first action James T. Kirk, newly appointed United

Federation of Planets' Ambassador to the Klingon Empire took was

something he should have done years before - He sent a message to

Carol Marcus, telling her of his appointment and asking her marry

him and accompany him to Klinzhai.

     Then, whistling happily half under his breath, he went down

the corridor to sickbay.



     "I can see by the grin on your face that you got the word,

and that it's good.  Should I bring out the brandy bottle."

     "I'm supposed to be on duty."

     "The old country doctor prescribes about 50 ml's of an

ethanol compound, taken orally."  McCoy filled the glass.  Another

for himself.

     "I did it, Bones, I brought if off.  Remember near the

beginning of the mission when you said I'd figure out what I

wanted to do, and get on with doing it.  You were exactly right."

     "So glad it worked out for you.  Is the word out yet?"

     "I asked Ra-ghoratrei for a 12 hour delay on the public

announcement.  There were a few things I wanted to do first.  One

of them was talk to you."

     "I have a hunch there is something you're going to try to

convince me to do."

     "There is.  I'm trying to talk you into coming with me as

Medical Director and as Chief of Staff, not to mention unofficial

positions as Ambassador's friend and drinking buddy."

     "But I was going to open a medical practice in Georgia."

     "Did you really want to do that?"

     "Well, I'm too young to do nothing.  And I'm not a bad

doctor, if I do say so myself."

     "You're a fine doctor.  As it presently stands, there are

only about 40 people on the staff at Klinzhai.  That will change,

of course, but I wouldn't ask you to do just the medical job - not

enough challenge.

     "Got to thinking there was no one I'd rather have as my Chief

of Staff, somebody I can trust, whose judgment I respect, knows

what my priorities are, knows how I think, knows what's important

and what's not.  Someone who's known me a

long time, helped me over the rough spots, someone I can count on,

someone I can pop off at when things get rough, celebrate with

when things go right.  In short, a friend.  I need you, Bones."

     "Jim, I've gone a lot of places with you.  So if you say you

need me, I'll go to Klinzhai.  Never been a Chief of Staff

before..."

     "I've never been an Ambassador before, but what the hell -

we're both pretty good poker players.  We'll bluff our way though

the tough spots.  Bones, I'm so very glad you'll be with me.  I'll

be a long way from home in a real hotspot.  Having you there will

help a whole lot."

     "It will be different.  You and I, but without Spock."

     "He's all set at the Science Academy, and he and Saavik want

their kids raised on Vulcan.

     "This is not going to be easy, Bones.  When the full

consequences of the treaty really sink in, there is going to be a

good size reactionary element on Klinzhai who are going to be most

unhappy, and probably disruptive.  It won't be the safest place

you could be."

     "So what's new.  You've really thought this through, haven't

you?  Really come up with some sort of a rough outline of what

 is likely to happen to us in this crazy new set-up.  Us and the 
Klingons - allies.

Still seems unbelievable."

     "It will take some getting used to.  You can bet that we'll 
encounter

plenty that is totally unexpected.  We're venturing into uncharted

territory, and I'll need you to help me handle things, to work out

better action plans than I have at this point, to keep me pointed

in the right direction if I get off track.  You're good at

predicting the behavior of illogical people.  You will be better

at working with Klingons than Spock could be because you are more

comfortable with people who act illogically."

     "Probably so, although being in love has loosened up Spock's

thought processes.  It's good for him.  So, my old friend, once

again, we'll go where no one has gone before."

     "Bones, I'm really excited about this.  It's almost the way I

felt when Starfleet gave me the Enterprise.  Remember that?"

     "I remember it well," McCoy smiled. "So what's my first duty

as Chief of Staff, Mr. Ambassador?"

     "Round up my bridge crew and Sulu, Scott and Heather, Snarl

too, for a little get-together in my quarters.  While you do that,

I want to pay a call on Sarek, let him know and thank him for his

help."



     "Sarek, I want to thank you for your efforts on my behalf.

Ra-ghoratrei called, and I've got the posting.  I can't adequately

convey how much I appreciate your  confidence, and I'll do my best

to represent us well."

     "Your best will be very good indeed," Amanda smiled.  "May

you be as successful an Ambassador as you have been a Starship

Captain."

     "You will be, most assuredly," Sarek nodded. "You know what

needs to be done; you understand the major challenges you'll face

in doing it; you understand the Klingons and they respect you more

than anyone else the Federation could have sent."

     "Thank you.

     "Also, I'm taking Leonard McCoy with me, not only as Medical

Director but also as my Chief of Staff."

     "Jim, that is good news," Amanda effused.  "It's so important

to have a true friend with you, someone you know you can count on."

     "My Senior Officers are assembling in my quarters.  Would you

like to come and join us for a little celebration."

     "Unfortunately, duty calls.  We're dining with the Andorians.

There is unfinished business I'd like to conclude before they

leave the ship tomorrow."

     Kirk hesitated, "Sarek, may I ask you a favor."

     "You may."

     "There is so much I don't understand about being a diplomat,

so many ways I could go wrong, so many opportunities to say and do

the wrong thing.  During the few days remaining before we return

you to Vulcan, could you find some time to give a Starship Captain

who's about to become an Ambassador a crash course in diplomatic

protocol."

     "I'd be more than pleased to do so.  I'm honored that you

would ask."

     "Thank you."



     "You are going to go where and do what!" Chekov exclaimed.

     "I'm going to Klinzhai to be the Federations' Ambassador to

the Klingon Empire.  The Federation Council has decided I'm the

person for the job."

     "They just asked you, out of the blue?" Scotty inquired."

     "No," Jim shook his head.  "I wanted the job.  I've been

angling to get it since before we got to Organia."

     "Why?" Snarl asked.  "Whatever gave you this idea?"

     "A lot of things.  Much of what we've done over the years has

been diplomatic activity, along with the exploration and science

work and the odd battle now and then.  I realized that the

diplomatic end of what we did was what I enjoyed the most."

     "Not to mention the fact that you've excelled in it.  It

makes a great deal of sense to me," Spock commented.

     "It is quite logical," Saavik added, mimicking Spock's tone

so closely that Jim couldn't help smiling.  Neither, he noted,

could Spock.

     "But what really brought it together for me was something Kor

said right before he died.  If it hadn't been for Kor, I might

have let this opportunity go right by me."

     "So here you've been scheming away, and us all unknowing,"

Uhura mused.  "I knew something was going on, of course, but I had

no idea what it was."

     "Should I tell them the rest, Bones," he whispered.

     "Go ahead."

     "I'm taking this guy with me, as Medical Director and more

 importantly as my Chief of Staff."

     "An excellent decision," Spock nodded. "If you'd asked, I would

have suggested it."

     "Sometimes I come up with good idea on my own, you know."

     "Indeed you do, Jim"



     "So that's what the Captain was up to," Saavik remarked as she and

Spock headed back towards their quarters.  "I knew something was

going on.  I also knew that you knew, but didn't want to ask you

and place you in a difficult position."

     "If you had asked I would have told you.  But I am pleased

you did not."

     "Bondmates should not interfere with confidences between

t'hy'la."

     "True. Saavik, I hope that in your next assignment, whatever

it is..."

     "And you know more about that than you're telling, don't

you."

     "I know what Jim has recommended, and I approve, but Nogura

has to ok it.  But you are distracting me from what I was saying."

     "I plan to distract you still more, and very soon," Saavik

smiled as the door to their quarters opened.

     Spock brushed a hand across her cheek, "And I plan to

cooperate in being distracted.  But, what I started to say was

that I hope you meet someone on your new assignment who you can trust

as much as Jim and I trust each other.  It would make it

easier for us both to be apart, if there was someone you could

totally depend on and I knew you were not alone."

     "We may be apart, but I'll never be alone, Spock.  Nor will

you.  Not while we both live."

     "And this evening, we are not apart.  Distract me!"
 

Path: tivoli.tivoli.com!geraldo.cc.utexas.edu!cs.utexas.edu!howland.reston.ans.net!ix.netcom.com!netnews
From: gini@ix.netcom.com (Virginia Boehm)
Newsgroups: alt.startrek.creative
Subject: Repost - Mission of Honor, part 13 of 15
Date: 31 Mar 1995 23:21:37 GMT
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Xref: tivoli.tivoli.com alt.startrek.creative:7618

Star Trek copyright by Paramount.   This fan fiction copyright, V.B. 
Worthen, 1995



                            Chapter 13



     Jim  closed the entry to the ship's botanical garden to

assure himself privacy in his grief.  It was ship's night, and the

somber lighting was a match for his mood.

     Everything had gone so well, the Romulans foiled, the treaty

signed, and  he'd gotten  his appointment.  Just when it was all

 coming together for him , this.  Why?

     He'd been so sure, happy  he'd finally been able to do

something that had eluded him all his life - make a commitment, a

real one, to a woman.  When he sent the message to Carol 

he'd been  sure she'd say yes.  Instead she'd turned

him down.  It couldn't be true what she said about him - she was

saying those things just to hurt him.  But why did she want to

hurt him?  Jim got up from the bench where he'd been sitting and

started to pace. Why?

     As he paced, he became aware of another set of footsteps in

the garden.  Only two people on the ship could override his

privacy seal on the entry and he knew which one had.

     "I must want to talk this through with you, Spock, even

though I thought I wanted to be alone.  You wouldn't be here otherwise."

     "Yes,  I knew.  What's wrong?"

     "Take it from my mind.  Its less painful that way, and quicker."

     Spock nodded and place his hand briefly on Jim's face.  "So,

when you finally asked her to marry you she said no.  I share your

grief, Jim."

     "I know you do.  I'd found a new challenge,  and was looking

forward to a new life with Carol a part of it, and she turned me down.

But what really hurts, more than being rejected, are her reasons,

what she said about me.  Did you get that?"

     "I did."

     "You've known a very long time.  Tell me, totally honestly,

am I as Carol says, self-centered, egotistical, arrogant, so

driven to succeed that I run roughshod over the feelings and needs

of others?

     "Honestly, Jim, I have never known you to be self-centered,

arrogant or egotistical.  But I have known you to use others as

tools to accomplish your goals, and to do so without much regard

for their feelings.  But what Carol didn't say, and should have,

is that you use yourself in the same way."

     "Am I that driven, Spock?"

     "When you consider the matter of sufficient importance, yes.

If you weren't, you would not be Jim Kirk and would not have

accomplished all that you have.

     "You and Dr. McCoy joke about saving the galaxy.  That may be a

slight exaggeration, but without you the Federation wouldn't be

what it is; there would be no peace with the Klingons; planet

Earth would be uninhabitable and I, and a great many other people,

would be most thoroughly dead."

     "So here I am, Jim the Galactic Hero, but not good enough for

Carol Marcus because I'm oh so ruthless.  Do I really use people

as tools?"

     "You do." Spock had been asked for an honest answer and he

gave it.  "Even your closest friends.  This mission, you used me

and you used Saavik, in a way that wouldn't have ever occurred to me."

     "I see - coordinating the mock battle and communicating the 
location

of the Romulan ship.  But it worked, suckered the Romulans right

into our trap."

     "Yes. That is precisely what I mean.  There was a problem and you 
saw 

that which his most sacred to Vulcans, our bonding, as a potential 

solution, so you used it and us."

     "That's not quite fair.  I made it very clear I wouldn't

order either one of you to do it."

     "But you also made it clear that you saw no feasible

alternative.  Nor did we.  If anyone else had made that request, Jim,  I

would have preferred the destruction of the ship over endangering

Saavik.  That, at least would have been a clean death.

This way, she risked not only death but madness."

     "There must be something, some implication of what I asked

you to do, that I don't understand."

     "There is, and normally it is not something I would discuss,

even with you, but you're tearing yourself apart over this.  You

must accept this aspect of your character, and go on.

     "Jim, a bonding consummated in pon farr, as Saavik and mine

was.."

     "Spock. I didn't know.  But, but I should have."

     "Is," Spock continued, "as far as I know, the strongest bond

between two beings that exists.  I do not exaggerate.  It is a

total mental, physical, and emotional joining that cannot be fully

comprehended by those who have not experienced it."

     "It is wonderful beyond imagining and leaves the participants

permanently altered.  Among other changes, they are rendered

absolutely incapable of doing harm to one another or of standing

by when someone else tries to do so."

     "So along comes Jim Kirk and asks you to separate yourselves

so soon after pon farr, and give orders that will fire phasers and

photon torpedoes at each other, using your bond to choreograph the

process."  The anger in Jim's voice was directed at himself.

"Kirk, you're not just ruthless, you don't just use people, you're

downright perverted.

     "Spock, what can I say except that I'm sorry.  I was ignorant

and really didn't know the magnitude of what I asked of you.  I'm

only glad that it did you no harm."

     "There was some temporary harm.  The night she was on the

Conquestor, I was most distraught.  I went to see Leonard, and I

broke down and cried like a child.  Saavik was fine until after

the battle was over.  She nearly collapsed then and was under

sedation for two days.  Dr. McCoy wanted to take her off the duty

rooster, but we talked him out of it."

     "Spock, I feel terrible.  What I did was horrible.  Why weren't 

you angry with me?  Or were you, are you?  God knows  you have cause."

     "I was not and am not.  Both because I knew you didn't know

the full implications of what you were asking of us, and because I

saw no other way .

     "Since I'm being brutally honest, I think that if you had

understood the full implications, you would have asked us anyway.

Am I correct?"

     "I must match your honesty.  I owe you that.  Yes, I

would have.  I am ruthless, really ruthless."

     "Yes, that is a part of your nature.  A very small part.  I

accept this as part of you as I accept it as part of myself.  I

can be ruthless too."

     "Yes," Jim nodded, "you can when  necessary.  The time

you made it clear to me that Edith Keeler must die - but that was

to save our history, and our very selves."

     "I've never regretted that although I did regret the hurt

that it caused you.  The cause was sufficient.  But there have

been other times when the cause was perhaps not sufficient to

justify the pain I inflicted.  I have made errors of judgment,

errors I deeply regret."

     "So have I."

     "But you have been correct a very high proportion of the

 time.  When you have used people, the cause has been sufficient

 and the people involved have known that too, as Saavik and I did

 on this mission.

     "Jim, you command loyalty in a way that has become almost

legendary throughout Starfleet."

     "But I can't command love."

     "No one can."

     "Damn it. I love her and I thought she loved me."

     "Maybe she does.  But she saw herself as being used.  Her own 

career, own interests, being cast aside to be  an Ambassador's wife.

  When you joined the two - your proposal of marriage and 

announcement of your appointment - she saw this as a

signal that you viewed her more as a tool than as life partner."

     "And the fact that we've gone all these years without a

formal commitment strengthens that impression," Jim nodded.  "I've

spent every leave with her for six years.  But then, its back on

the Enterprise, and wherever she takes us.  And  while I'm not the

tomcat I used to be I have not made any pretense of being faithful

to her.

     "I wouldn't commit - then  when I'm leaving

the Enterprise and moving into a situation where a wife would

definitely be a plus, I suddenly propose.  That's after I went

after the ambassadorship, unilaterally, didn't ask how this would

fit her plans, or if it was something she wanted to do.  Perhaps

she had grounds  for her suspicions."

     "Perhaps she was correct?"

     "Much as I hate to admit it, maybe she was."

     There was silence, except for the sound of the little  waterfall 
and stream that ran t

through the garden.



     "Spock, can I ask you a personal question?"

     "Yes."

     "This is a weird question to ask a Vulcan, but nobody else,

not even Bones, would give me an absolutely honest answer.  In the

years we've known each other, you've seen me with many women.  Do

you think I have truly loved any of them?  Do you think that I am

really capable of love, unselfish love?"

     "Until very recently, I didn't know whether I was.  I wasn't

sure if I even knew what love was, or whether it was a human

emotion that should have no part in my life. 

     "I cannot answer that question for you in any definitive way.

Yes, I think you are capable of unselfish love, but I cannot know

it.  Only you can know. You must find your own way, as I found mine."

     "I hesitate to ask this because I know I'm treading in

territory very personal and private to you, but how was that, how

did you find your way?  If you can't answer, I'll understand."

     "I will answer. This is a time for openness between us,

without regard for the kind of boundaries that I have perhaps been

too hasty to construct."

     There was silence, then Spock continued.  "Back on the

genesis world, when Saavik and your son found the mindless Spock-

child, I, or what would become I, was aging along with the

genesis world at an incredible rate.  In a matter of hours, the

pon farr came over the mindless thing that both was and was

 not I...and Saavik was ...there for me."

     "She saved your life.  I never knew that."

     "Nor did I, except I think at some cellular level I did.  But

it goes beyond saving my life.  Pon farr is more than a biological

event.  Successful consummation of pon farr involves the joining

of minds as well as bodies, totally, with no barriers.  She opened

her mind to me, opened her mind to near mindlessness in the heat

of pon farr.  She could have died, Jim. 

     "She could have withheld her mind and the Spock-shell

probably could have retained life with just a physical experience.

Life, but not good health."

     "Had my body been less than totally healthy, there was no way

my katra could have been reunited with it.  She unhesitatingly did

what she had to do to save my life with utter disregard for her

own.  Not only my life, but my very soul.

     "Jim, that's how I learned what love really was.   I

asked myself if I would have done for Saavik something comparable

to what she did for me, and to my great joy, the answer was yes."



     Jim bowed his head, deeply moved by what Spock had told him.

"There are women I would have risked my life for, but to risk

 my sanity that way, to totally open my mind, cast aside all my

 defenses and just let go... I really don't know if I am capable of 

that.  Hell, I don't know if  I'm capable of totally opening my mind,

 even to myself."

     Spock shook his head. "You've faced death in all its forms,

some incredibly alien; you have persisted and succeeded in

circumstances when most beings would have been incapacitated by

fear, yet you tell me you are afraid of the contents of your own

mind.  I find that inexplicable."

     "I've never been much for introspection, but right now, I'm 

doing quite a bit of it and don't like what I see very well.  I'm

not too sure right now that I like me very well.

     "I was pretty depressed early in the mission and unloaded on

Bones.  That helped some and then we got so busy with the Romulans

that I didn't have time for introspection, depression, or anything

else except being a Starship Captain.  After Organia, everything

seemed to be coming together beautifully and I felt great.  Now,

Carol lets me know I'm going to Klinzhai without her.

     "There has to be something in me that is fundamentally wrong,

some basic flaw in Jim Kirk.  I can go so far, but I never get

everything quite together.  I have accomplished a lot, no denying

that.  But ultimate triumph seems to be beyond me.  There's got to

be something in my mind, something wrong...Or, maybe, what I'm

scared of  is that there really isn't.  Spock," Jim's voice broke,

then he continued, "Deep down, am I just an empty suit?"

     "Jim," Spock said quietly, calmly, "You are not an empty

suit.  I've touched your mind many times and I know better.  So do

you."

     "Then why am I so afraid to really take a look at myself?

Why can't I come to gripes with whatever's eating at me, and it's

more than Carol.  Women have turned me down before,

and as you helped me see, she did have her reasons.  I'll get over

it.   But there is something that I fear, something that I can't face."

     "There is, and whatever it is  you must face it.  I can help you, 
if you'll let me."

     "A mind meld?"

     "Of a particular type.  Let your mind drift - it will find

its own way, and wherever it goes, I'll be there, reflecting back

your thoughts to you."

     "You'd be the mirror I look into when I go to slay the Medusa?"

     "Precisely.  But what you will find is that there is nothing there

 to slay; there is just you."

     "What if there really is something that I just can't face?"

     "There is not.  I know that."

     "If we do this meld, I'm asking a great deal from you.  As I

understand this sort of thing, you'd be opening your mind to

whatever it is in me that I'm afraid to face."

     "Yes, I must perceive if I'm to reflect.  I know there is

 nothing to fear.  But  you are asking a lot of yourself.

I've never known you to lack courage or to back

away from the unknown."

     "You're right.  I have to do it.  He smiled wanly, "I'm game if you 
are."

     Jim closed his eyes and Spock placed his hand on Kirk's face....



     ...There was Carol, a  young Carol, turning a

laughing face up to him as they walked arm in arm.  Laughter,

love, thoughts of a life together.    Then over her face, clouding it,

 a well known silhouette - Enterprise.



     ...Enterprise - a wonder to her bewildered young Captain who

hoped he'd successfully act like he knew what he was doing until

he actually did.  Enterprise - he was a stranger to her and to

those who served on her, but he'd court her like a lover and win

her.  And win her he had.  Enterprise - the one lady who had all

his love and loyalty - until he killed her.



     ...Death - his brother Sam's on Deneva;  his father's death

 in the line of duty, the father so seldom home, but who made

 going "out there" seem so very

exiting that both of his sons went - Sam as a colonist, Jim to

Starfleet.  The excitement of the early admission to the Academy.

He'd told Charis...



     ...Charis, blond, very pretty.  All the boys liked her, and 

wonder of wonders, she chose Jim Kirk...  

     Charis, the approaches and drawings back, the battle of

social convention versus adolescent hormones, Charis.  And finally

that golden afternoon  in the Iowa woods ... It was the first time for

 both of them.  They were 15.

     Charis had told him how proud and happy she was for him when

he got his early admission to the Academy, but the smile on her

face could not mask the hurt in her eyes.

     Young Jim had turned from that hurt, pretended not to see it.

He didn't know how to deal with it.  He had to go to the

Academy - he had to go where others had not.  Had to?  Was it a

dare of some sort...



     ...Did he dare...English class.  Jim liked literature but it was a 
warm 

spring day; he was 12 and was paying more

attention to a spider busy spinning her web around a window frame

than he was to the teacher expounding on the poetry of T.S.

Elliot, until the words drifted into his consciousness, drifted

then stopped to paint themselves on his mind:

           "Do I dare

           Disturb the universe?"

      Jim stared at the spider.  Disturbing the universe, that was

a strange idea, as if one person could really make that much of a

difference.  But if one person couldn't then what was the point of

everything.  And there had to be a purpose.  Life was for

something, not just for drifting through, not just for spinning

webs that would be swept away when the room was next dusted.  Jim

sat up straight in his chair.  He didn't know if one

James Tiberius Kirk could  "disturb the Universe", but he'd  give

it his best shot.  He'd try and keep trying...



     ...and keep trying. He was 8 and Sam was 12 and it really

wasn't fair.  Sam could do things he couldn't ... or at least Sam

said he couldn't.  The rafter in the barn, the one maybe five feet

from the hayloft.  Sam could launch a running jump from the loft,

grab the rafter,  swing on it, drop down to the barn floor.  Sam could

do it.    And Sam had told Jim he was too little.  Jim had believed him

and not even tried.  Why?

     Jim stood in the loft, looking at the rafter.  He was scared.

What if he fell and hurt himself?  What would his mother say?  And

Sam would say "I told you so" and that would be the worst of all.

     He took a deep breath and launched into space.  The hay on

the barn floor broke his fall, but his shoulder hurt.  He went

back up the ladder to the loft and tried again, ignoring the pain

in his shoulder.  He missed again.  The third time he grabbed the

rafter and whooped to himself.

     He'd never let Sam tell him what he could or could not do

ever again.  He'd never let anybody.  He'd set his own limits...



     ...Limits..."He's a very gifted child, Winona," the school

psychologist was saying, not knowing that one of the six year

old's gifts was for eavesdropping.

     Jimmy sat quietly on the floor of his room listening to the

conversation in the living room directly below.  The hole he'd

drilled in the floor was usually under the rug and so far his

mother hadn't found it.

     "As is the case with all gifted children, you must set

careful limits on him.  Limit him too tightly and he'll fail to

achieve his potential, but without limits and discipline, he'll

grow up arrogant and egotistical."

     Jimmy pulled his computer toward him and called up the

dictionary.  He didn't know what egotistical meant, and the

dictionary couldn't tell him if he couldn't spell it right when he

input it.  But he knew about "arrogant" - he'd been called that

already and knew it was bad, that other people wouldn't like you

if you were that and Jimmy wanted people to like him.   He

didn't want to be that way - arrogant....

     ...Arrogant. Egotistical...



     "I am Spock, I am Kirk, I am Spock, I am Kirk..."

     "I am Spock."

     "I am Kirk."

     The mindmeld was broken and once again, he and Spock were

sitting on the deck in the garden and he could hear the sound of

the waterfall.



     Jim shook his head to clear it of the lingering effects of

the meld, turned to Spock and smiled, "So down there is a six year

old afraid that the other kids wouldn't like him. I've been

running all these years from a six year old."

     "Apparently so.  And Carol's words stirred up memories

 you didn't know you had."

     "You were right.  There was no monster to slay.  I am not

arrogant and egotistical.  But I am driven.  I am determined to

make a difference.  I do set my own limits."

     "In other words, you're Jim Kirk."

     "I don't know what I'll do with what I've found out.  But I've 

stopped being down on Jim Kirk. He's really not a bad guy when

you get to know him." 

     "I've known him for many years, quite well in fact.  And he's

done quite well at disturbing the universe.  This Kirk has

been an incredibly good Starship Captain, and is going to be a

great Ambassador too."

     "But a lonely one - Spock - I still feel that but most of the

pain is gone!  What did you do?"

     "You did it, Jim."

     "I think I see... that image where I literally put the

Enterprise ahead of Carol.  That made my priorities pretty damn

clear, didn't it?"

     "Very clear indeed."

     "I'd put this new job ahead of her too.  This is simply how I

am, and probably always will be.  She did the right thing, the

right thing for both of us.  We'd have made each other miserable.

     "Someday, perhaps there will be a woman who can be to me as

Saavik is to you.  But it's not Carol.  I've come close a few

times.  Edith Keeler ...a few others.   Edith... you helped me then."
      
     "But  I also caused you great pain."
     
     Spock, we have been through so much together."

     "Yes."


     "Jim, this may be the last chance we have to speak privately

before the end of the mission.  There is something I would ask

 you, a personal matter."

     "Ask."

     "You've granted me a privilege this evening.  You've let me

see into your mind , to perceive and understand what is truly Jim 

Kirk, and, by extension, what is, in my view, the best of what

 it means to be human.

     "I would very much like to reciprocate, to invite you into my

mind as you have let me into yours.  I want you to know me

as I now know you."

     Jim bowed his head briefly, looked up, and turned toward

Spock.  "There has always been a great deal between us that has

never been spoken, never expressed."

     "Yes.  And, like you, I  have not spoken of what existed 

and also what existed only in rumor and speculation.  While

 the rumors were untrue, I did not find them offensive."

     "Nor did I.  Spock, it's such a relief to be able to speak of

this."

     " Yes, it is.  Jim, will you enter my mind as fully as you have 
permitted

me to enter yours?"

     "Of course."

     "You understand that you'll be one to decide when to end this

meld.  Once I've dropped my barriers, I will not have sufficient 

control to end the meld."

     Jim nodded.  The images,  the thoughts, the emotions, began  
immediately.



     ...Saavik's face, her dark hair spread on a pillow, lit by

 the warm glow of the firepot, desire in her eyes.


     ...In jarring contrast, the attempt to achieve kolinar, to

deny all emotion.  The fortunate failure, the knowledge and

insight that came when the presence making itself felt in his mind

was identified.  Jim t'hy'la, brother and more. Brother...



     ... Family - Sarek's stricken face when he learned that Spock

had sought and gained admission to the Academy without even

consulting his father.   The sorrow of his father's rejection,

 compounded by trying not to feel it or acknowledge it.  The

 sense of having no roots, no place, not even family to stand with

 him at the koon-ut-kal-if-fee...



     ... The Place of Challenge.  T'Pring with her icy beauty and

Stonn by her side . The challenge when he was forced to fight his

Captain.  The very hot anger at T'Pring that had turned to cold

hatred when he thought Jim dead.  His realization that death in

pon farr was far preferable to bonding with T'Pring.   Then, the

overwhelming joy when he learned Jim still lived, thanks to

Leonard McCoy...



     ... Leonard, the half-memories of his soul when his katra had

shared a brain with him.  The uneasy blending, as a part of him

tried to take over and another part tried to preserve Leonard's

sanity, both parts disembodied, slowly disintegrating, dying...



     ...Dying aboard the Enterprise when Khan was destroyed, dying

because only in that way could the Enterprise survive, dying for

the Enterprise, dying for Jim ...



     ... Jim, the young Starship Captain so unsure of himself and

trying to hide it, not knowing that his newly promoted First

Officer was just as uncertain. Rocky first days and weeks,

 abrasion whenever they worked together, the slow realization

 that it was Jim's humanity he

resented - because he resented the half of himself that was human.


     ... "Half-breed, half-breed, the taunts of other children,

the lack of sympathy from his father, resentment of his father for

bonding with a human woman and thus creating him, but love for the

human woman who was his mother, and who understood as his father

did not, how the taunts hurt.

     
     Then an escape - the school work he did so

much better than most, the positive response of his father to his

academic talent, his own never-ending satisfaction from learning,

the freedom to feel the one emotion a Vulcan is rewarded for

feeling - intellectual curiosity, never-ending intellectual

curiosity.  The growing realization that in a life of moderation

there was one need that cold be indulged immoderately - the need

to know, to understand.



     ...To understand  - the drive to understand .  The appeal

 of Starfleet - to be on the edge, to learn the previously

 unknown, whether new life forms, new worlds, new theories

about the universe.  A drive so strong that a father's 

disapproval was secondary, although it still stung.



     ...The long hurt followed by the joy when his father

 acknowledged that Starfleet was a

career choice both logical and inevitable for him, and Sarek

finally expressed his pride and satisfaction with his son.



     Finally, the triumph,  Sarek bringing Saavik to Spock at

their bonding, the ultimate acceptance of him, his chosen

bondmate, his own human ancestry, his right to make his own

choices..

     It was all there at the bonding, the union at long last of

all that was closest to himself, and the human and Vulcan sides of

his heritage.  The woman he had loved so long (try as he had to

disguise the fact from himself) was his, never and always

touching.

          The bonding, the merging of minds, knowing the other merging

that would follow so soon, experiencing fully the demands of pon

farr, feeling the desire rising in waves, being able to savor

it, with no need to repress  or deny , or to hold it back for

more than a brief time.  The party -  enjoying the ever rising tide,

 knowing fulfillment would be even more satisfying because of the brief 
delay.

     Finally the leavetaking - "Have a pleasant evening, Jim. "You

too." " Most assuredly." - Entering the turbolift with Saavik by

his side ...

     "I am Kirk, I am Spock, I am Kirk

     "I am Spock, I am Kirk"

     "I am Spock."

     "I am Kirk."



      They sat silently for several minutes, before Jim spoke, "I

had to get out of the meld."

     Spock nodded, "Of course."

     "Where you were going was not a place I had a right to go."

     "I trusted you to recognize that.  And you did."

     "We've trusted each other with our lives more times than

either of us can count.  Now we've trusted each other with that

which was closest to our very selves.  Until tonight, I didn't

even trust myself.  I've let you see places in my mind that I was afraid 
to look

in myself. I could not have done this with anyone else."

     "Nor would I have offered the sharing meld to anyone else.

Both in words and through the meld, I've spoken to you of matters

tonight that are very close to the core of me."

     "Yes, we both let down our barriers tonight.  And Spock,  I'm

so glad we did.   We needed this."

     "Yes, we needed this sharing."

     "We did.  But I feel as if I've been through an emotional

wringer."

     "So do I." Spock held out a hand that was visibly

shaking. 

      Jim grasped it with one of his own. "I could use a

drink, and I think you could too. Bet we can get Bones to join us,

find out what my Chief of Staff is up to."     Side by side, smiling,

 the two old friends left the garden.
 

Path: tivoli.tivoli.com!geraldo.cc.utexas.edu!cs.utexas.edu!howland.reston.ans.net!ix.netcom.com!netnews
From: gini@ix.netcom.com (Virginia Boehm)
Newsgroups: alt.startrek.creative
Subject: Repost - Mission of Honor, part 14 of 15
Date: 1 Apr 1995 00:21:32 GMT
Organization: Netcom
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Usual stuff about Paramount owning Star Trek and this being 
non-commercial fan fiction
copyright by V.B. Worthen, 1995.  Also, add Peter David to the list of 
Star Trek novelists
whose material/ideas/characters I've borrowed. 



                                 Chapter 14



     "So the Captain's going to be an Ambassador, " Heather mused.

     "It will be a change, but he seems very pleased about it.

He's been walking around smiling a lot since he told us." Snarl

commented.

     "I'm glad." Nyota mused, "I was concerned that he'd really

have a bad time, knowing this is his last mission as Captain of

the Enterprise, knowing that his ship was to be decommissioned.

It was rough on him last time."

     "Yes, he seems happier, and he's sure keeping himself and

everyone else busy - you could eat off the decks anywhere on the

ship.  It positively shines.  But he's still not behaving like Jim

Kirk."

     "In what way, Heather?" Saavik asked.

     The Enterprise's four female senior officers were having one

 of their drink and gossip sessions in Uhura's quarters.

     "Well for one thing, he's been living like a monk all cruise,

so far as I know," Heather noted.  "And that's most certainly not

like him.  Anybody know anything I don't know.  Maybe I missed

something."

     "Haven't heard otherwise," Nyota spoke.

     "Nor I", Snarl contributed, "and Saavik, you've been so

involved in your own love life that you wouldn't have noticed

anything about anyone else's."

     "You're right," Saavik smiled, "It has been a rather eventful

voyage."

     "You're beginning to sound like Spock," Uhura grinned.  "But

Spock's been behaving differently lately.  I think you're good for

each other."

     "I know we're good for each other."

     "So are you going to tell us about it?" Heather queried.

     "Tell what about what?" Saavik said innocently.

     "Tell us ALL.  Look, for years at least half of the humanoid

women in this ship, and for all I know some of the others as well,

have been trying to get something going with Spock.  Then you come

back and marry him in four days flat.  What's the secret?  What's

the magic word or whatever?"

     "No magic.  If you stop and think about it, Spock and I are

very well suited in many ways, and we have known each other since

I was a child.  The whole thing was really quite logical."

     "Logical.  Saavik I don't believe you," Snarl growled quietly.

"I'm a pretty good observer of beings.  In my job I have to be.  I

noticed you talking to Spock when you  came aboard for this

mission,, saw the way you were looking at him, and told myself you

were up to something.  You had a plan.  Will you deny it."

     "I knew I what I wanted, of course,  but I couldn't

know if I'd succeed.  I have wanted to bond with Spock for years.

Yes, you people and others were interested in him and had assorted

erotic fantasies..."

     "Yeah," Nyota grinned, "Twenty years ago or more I had this

fantasy of running my tongue around the rim of his pointed ear..."

     "His ear! "Nyota, you can do better than that..."

     "And that would make him lose control and he'd grab me right

 there on the bridge and..."

     Saavik's laughter drowned out whatever would have come next.

"Wait 'til I tell him."

     "Don't you dare.  Although I think he may have some idea.  I

wrote a song about him then, and updated it a few years ago - I

think it was when you were on Vulcan - and he heard me sing it."

     "How did it go?"

     "Like this: There was a man and a ship of fame,

                 We lost them both, but back they came,

                 And women don't dare breathe their name,

                 They'll turn their charm on you...

                 The man's still got those sexy ears,

                 In alien love, he has no peers,

                 He's not slowed down by extra years,

                 The ship brings him to you...



          Oh girls in space, be wary, be wary, be wary

          Girls in space be wary, you know not what he'll do."



     "What was Spock's reaction?" Saavik smiled.

     "Just a raised eyebrow and one of those enigmatic not-quite-

smiles of his.  He knows perfectly well that women have their

fantasies about him."

     "So," Heather shrugged, "here we are left with our fantasies,

while Saavik's got the reality.  Things have changed since that

song was written.  Now there is one who does know what he'll do.

     "So tell me what it's like," Heather persisted.

     "What's what like?"

     "Making love with him, what else."

     "It's wonderful beyond words, an experience that far exceeded

my very high expectations."

     "Well, keep going."

     "I said the experience was beyond words."

     "McConel, that's all you're going to get," Uhura intervened.

 "Some of us prefer not to discuss the details of our love life."

     "I know, but really can't see why.  I never do anything I'm

ashamed of, so I'm not bothered by talking about mine," Heather

noted.

     "That we know.   You've proved that many times.

     "But I still wonder what's going on with the Captain."

     "Maybe he's decided he's going to marry Carol Marcus.  You

know, he's been spending all his leaves with her for years," Snarl

suggested.

     "Maybe.  But if Jim had decided to get married before he goes

to Klinzhai, its more likely he'd be having one last fling."

Heather commented, "But hell with it, give me another drink."

     "Drowning your sorrows, McConel."

     "Yeah.  Now I know I'll never get a chance at Spock and I

can't even get Jim to pay attention to me."

     "The mission's not over yet."

     "But it will be in three more days.  Tomorrow, we leave the

last of the Diplomats on Vulcan, then two days back to Earth."

     "Are you and Spock leaving the ship with his parents?"

     "Sarek and Amanda suggested it.  I gather there will be some

sort of reception to formally announce the bonding.  But Spock

felt, and I agreed, that we should see the ship, and Jim, home.

We'll go on to Vulcan from there.  I still have plenty of leave so

that Sarek and Amanda can have their reception for us.  Then,

Spock will stay on Vulcan and I'll go wherever Starfleet sends

me."

     "And Jim and Leonard McCoy will be off to Klinzhai."

     "Jim and Leonard, without Spock. Spock and Jim and Leonard -

they've been a team so long it's hard to see them any other way.

They have been though so much together.  They are so different but

they compliment each other so beautifully.  I see Jim as being the

ship's heart -  drive, guts, bravery.  Spock is its mind -

thinking through, acting wisely, keeping cool.  And Leonard is its

soul, all compassion, warmth, always the healer."

     "Very well put, Nyota," Saavik nodded.

     "But Jim's not the only one who has guts - Saavik, how did

you ever do what you did on the Conquestor?  I can handle myself

in a fight but that's straightforward.  What you were doing was so

convoluted.  Now if that doesn't take guts and real nerve, I don't

know what does."

     "Snarl, I did what I had to do.  It was our best chance of

getting out of the battle  with the ship and us in one piece."

     "You made it seem so easy.  I watched you, sitting so calmly

in the Conquestor's command chair, looking so much at home there,

so in charge.  It was a magnificent performance,"

     "I'm glad I looked calm, Nyota. I sure didn't feel that way.

When I got beamed back to the Enterprise, my knees were so wobbly

that I would have collapsed on the transporter pad if Spock hadn't

been there to catch me."

     "Lucky woman - Spock's there for you."

     "And always will be."

     "This bonding business, I know Vulcans don't talk much about

it," Heather continued, "but I take it that the bonding created

some sort of permanent mental connection between you."

     "Yes.  He's a presence in my mind, as I am in his, wherever

we are."

      "So you always know in general where he is, what he's doing."

     "In general.  Right now, he and Jim are in Leonard McCoy's

quarters doing what we've been doing - gossiping, swapping war

stories, drinking. waxing nostalgic."

     "Close to 30  years of stories to tell, and such stories.  A

lot of history has been made by this ship and the original

Enterprise."

     "That it has.  And I guess Jim and Leonard will go on making

history on Klinzhai.  I'm glad Leonard's going with him," Nyota

noted.

     "Won't you miss Leonard?" Heather asked."

     Nyota shook her head, "Jim needs him.  Leonard and I have

been very good friends for many years."

     "You're trying to tell me you are 'just friends'?"

     "I'm not trying to tell you anything.  Leonard is the nicest

person I know and he thinks highly of me as well.  That's all."

     "Where do you think we'll be posted next, Snarl?" Heather

asked.  When Uhura said that's all, particularly in that tone 

of voice, that was final.

     "I've put in for the new ship, the one we passed in the dock

as we came out.  They'll need a Security Chief.  Why not me."

     "Why not.  So have I.  I want to be Chief Engineer  and 

Scotty has recommended it.  But, we'll just wait and see."

    "It will seem strange not to be part of Starfleet any more,"

Nyota commented. "But, after toying with the idea of teaching at

the Academy - they wanted me to - I decided no.  At this point in

my life I'm going to be a linguist and not a communications

officer.  Harvard wants me as a professor of nonhumanoid

linguistics and it is too good an offer to pass up.  But I'll

think of you people, probably on the new ship.

     "At least one entity has already been posted there already,"

she continued. "Moria.  Now that she is a conscious intelligence,

she has to be treated like personnel, not equipment.  She

is moving over to the new ship, and

retaining her identity, her consciousness and all her memory."

     "I've asked for posting to the new ship too," Saavik said.

"Jim suggested that I do so and was quite emphatic about it."

     "Still seems strange to hear you call the Captain Jim,"

Heather commented.  "You were always so formal."

      "It was his idea.  The night before Spock and I were

married, he suggested that I should call him Jim off duty.  Since

he and Spock are such close friends, it seemed strange that I'd

keep on calling him Captain."

      "Makes sense."

      "But whatever I call him, I think  he knows something that I

 don't know about the new ship."

     "Like maybe who the Captain's going to be.  There's a rumor

going around that Pavel's getting promoted."

     "He's long overdue for it.  He's had opportunities before but

didn't want to leave the Enterprise."

     "Same thing happened years ago with Sulu.  And of course

Spock has refused to accept another command.  There is something

about this ship and Jim Kirk that gets to people.  They just don't

want to leave."

     "I know I don't," Snarl said.

     "Nor I.  I'd rather be Scotty's second here than Chief on

some other ship.  But there is no option.  It's the end of the

line for the Enterprise and you and Saavik and I will find

ourselves on another ship.

     "But it won't be the same.  It won't be the Enterprise."

     "We're getting maudlin," Heather cut in. "Saavik, do you

think we'd be intruding if we went and knocked on Leonard's door,

joined their gathering?"

     Saavik shook her head.  "Not a good idea.  This is probably

the last chance that these three very old friends will have for a

good talking and drinking session on the Enterprise."

     "You're right.  Leave them to it," Uhura agreed.

     "Damn it," Heather shook her head.  "There goes another

chance."

     "Humanoids," Snarl said with a half-growl, "Why can't you be

sensible like us felinoids - if you want a male, just ask him."

     "It may come to that before this voyage is over," Heather laughed.


     Amanda and Sarek stood on the Enterprise's transporter pad,

surrounded by their luggage.

     "We'll see you on Vulcan in a few days," Amanda noted.

     "Certainly."

     "And Jim, do try to come to Vulcan for the reception.  There

will be time before you have to get ready to leave for Klinzhai.

You too Leonard."

     "Sarek," Jim addressed the Ambassador, "Thank you for the

crash course in diplomatic fine points.  Wish we'd had more time,

but you've undoubtedly saved me from making some stupid blunders.

I appreciate it."

     "You'll do fine, Jim."

     "I'll certainly try."

     "Take good care of my son, Saavik."

     "Of course, Mother."

     "See you on Vulcan."

     The transporter  energized, Amanda and Sarek shimmered, and

were gone.



     "Hikaru", the party at the door identified himself.

     "Come," Kirk indicated.

     "Jim, I need to talk to you."

     Kirk moved a mass of print outs concerning the various

factions that made up the Klingon High Council off a chair and

gestured Sulu to sit down.  "I can guess what it's about.  You got

an 'eyes only' from Admiral Nogura.  You got the call. I figured

it would happen about this time."

     "You figured it, or he told you."

     "Both. I had seen it coming, but when Nogura called me

earlier today to let me know that everything is arranged - the

promotions, the new ship, the timing - he told me he wanted to

kick you upstairs. Didn't have the nerve to ask me to try to

convince you, however."

     "Should I do it?  Can I give up the Excelsior? Is the

admiralty what I should do?"

     "I notice you're not questioning whether or not you can do

the job."

     "I think I can."

     "I know you can.  You've been an outstanding Captain, and you

 have the capacity to move up."

     "The question is, do I want to?  And isn't' it awfully soon.

I haven't been a Captain that long."

     "You should have been, and could have been, a Captain years

before you were.  You decided to stay with me and the Enterprise."

     "But  is this what I want to do?  That's the question."

     "Exactly.  Consider it carefully.  Once you take flag rank,

it's hard, nearly impossible to return, to come home to the bridge

of a Starship.

     "Accepting promotion the first time was the worse mistake of

my career.  But for you, Hikaru, it might not be a mistake."

     "Nogura makes it sound so good."

     "What, specifically, is he offering in the way of an

assignment?"

     "For openers, personal assistant to him, in charge of making

sure that all personnel of Cartwright's persuasion are  out of

Starfleet."

     "Quite a job. Cartwright and his co-conspirators wove their

webs deeply into Starfleet.  Even onto the bridge of my ship."

     "It's a job that has to be done.  And one I think I could do."

     "Agreed, on both counts.  And after you do that?"

     "Command of Starfleet Operations."

     "My old job.  It's a very good one for someone

temperamentally suited for it. I wasn't."

     "But am I?"

     "I can't answer that question for you.  However, I think you

have already answered it for yourself.  You're a brilliant

strategist, Hikaru.  The only person I know who is a better one is

Nogura, who can't live forever although he's trying hard."

     "I don't know about that."

     "But I do.  I've known you since you were a brand new

lieutenant and I'm telling you that, in 5 or 6 years, when

Heihachiro finally retires, you could be his logical successor."

     "That would be very fast career movement indeed."

     "But I notice you don't reject the idea out of hand."

     "Its very flattering."

     "I'm not trying to flatter you.  I'm telling you the truth as

I see it.  And the truth is this.  For the next fifteen years or

so, I'm going to be on Klinzhai, working to join the Empire and

the Federation.  I know Klingons and you know them. I can do the

speaking softly part, but the big stick is going to have to be

there too.

     "The big stick is Starfleet of course.  There is no being in

the Federation I'd rather have in charge of Starfleet than Hikaru

Sulu."

     "I don't know what to say."

     "Why say anything.  Here," he fished for something in a

 drawer, "Hold out your hand, There you are, admiral's rank

 insignia.  The ones I wore when I signed the treaty on Organia.

 When Nogura pins them on you, make sure he knows where they came

 from."

     "He'll know, Jim."



     After Hikaru left, Jim called up his Starfleet file. Ra-

ghoratrei had mentioned that Nogura had suggested he do so, but it

had slipped his mind.  Now, he thought it was time to make sure he

wasn't still Admiral Kirk.  Heihachiro was a slippery customer.

     He wasn't.  A few hours after his appointment as Ambassador

to the Klingon Empire had been announced, he'd been returned to the

rank of Captain, at his own request.  A typical Nogura maneuver -

he kept his word to Jim but timed it so that the announcement of

the appointment could read "Admiral James T. Kirk."

     He laughed.  He had it coming to him - That was Heihachiro's

response to what he'd done with the Starfleet copy of the Treaty,

the one he'd signed "Captain."

     Casually, Jim scrolled through his file, an extensive one,

and let the memories come until an entry, or rather the lack of an

entry, caught his eye.  The court martial after they'd returned

from retrieving Spock and finding whales to respond to the Probe

had been deleted from the record and the entry indicated that he'd

been reduced in rank to Captain, again at his own request.  Nogura had

altered Starfleet permanent records!  That was not supposed to be

possible, but Nogura had found a way.

     Jim had never been ashamed of that court martial, and in fact

rather proud of it.  The insubordination charge he'd been

convicted of was the least serious of the charges against him and

he'd been guilty of the lot and would do it all again given the

same circumstances.  But still, it was nice to leave with a clean

record.

     And it was time to leave - leave Starfleet and the Enterprise

- and move on.
 

Path: tivoli.tivoli.com!geraldo.cc.utexas.edu!cs.utexas.edu!howland.reston.ans.net!ix.netcom.com!netnews
From: gini@ix.netcom.com (Virginia Boehm)
Newsgroups: alt.startrek.creative
Subject: Repost - Mission of Honor, part 15 of 15
Date: 1 Apr 1995 01:12:25 GMT
Organization: Netcom
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Xref: tivoli.tivoli.com alt.startrek.creative:7620

One last time - Paramount owns Star Trek in fee simple.   I've used 
stuff from a lot of Star
Trek novelists in this story, and if I've neglected to acknowledge any 
of them, it was an
accident.  This story is non-commercial fan fiction copyright V.B. 
Worthen, 1995. 

This last chapter absolutely wallows in sentimentality.  If that bothers 
you, best not to read
it.  I've laid it on a bit thick.



                            Chapter 15



     Jim raised a hand for attention among the beeping, whistles,

horns, and other noises of the party. "This is our time to celebrate, 

Shipmates.  The diplomats are gone, and the Admiral's gig 

doesn't get here until 0700, so its just us.

     "There will be some ceremonial stuff at 0930 tomorrow. I

gather Starfleet wants to hand out some more medals. Our ETA at

Spacedock, San Francisco is 1100.

     "In the meantime, we'll aim for the minimum amount of work,

the maximum amount of play, as we bid farewell to the finest ship

in the fleet and celebrate our mission, successful in spite of the

Romulans.  Successful, because you came through for me, as you

always have.  You are the best damn crew in the fleet! 

     "So enjoy yourselves, eat, drink, have fun.  We've worked hard

to make sure that we take the Enterprise into dock for the last

time tomorrow. proudly, in a manner befitting the finest

ship in the fleet.  She's one beautiful lady and we've all done

our part to make sure she shines.

There were shouts of agreement.

     "Not only does she look great, she runs great.  Engineering

has set another record for overall systems efficiency.  What's the

number, Mr.  Scott?"

     "105.3 percent," Scotty announced proudly to prolonged

applause.

     "Bet that record stands for 20 years!  We're proud and we

should be.  I want us to strut into that dock tomorrow, heads up

and looking fine.  Will we do that?"

     "We will," 400 voices shouted back.



     "It couldn't have happened that way.  Nobody's that good."

     "We were.  All it took was practice."

     "Don't believe it."

     "We'll show you.

     "Moria, will you put the  Enterprise and the Conquestor in

the tank one more time, so Pavel and I can show these scoffers how

to fight a mock battle."

     "Anything for you, Hikaru, anything at all.  Don't glare at

me, Lieutenant Taylor.  I'm a noncorporial intelligence.  All talk,

no action," Moria mused.  "Dammit."



     "Watch it around those computers, Hikaru," McCoy laughed.

"Remember the time the main computer fell in love with Jim."

     "I remember it vividly," Uhura grinned.  The first thing she

 did was delete all female beings from her records.  Her rivals

 no longer existed.  She would accept no commands from them."

     "That must have made it difficult to run the ship."

     "It did, and to make it worse, she then wanted to be

absolutely sure of me so she deleted the males as well,"  Kirk

recalled.

     "How did it all work out?"

     "The Captain talked to her - you should have heard it.  Never

thought I'd hear Jim Kirk whispering sweet nothings to a machine."

     "It wasn't that bad, Bones."

     "It was worse.  Jim Kirk's finest hour - making verbal love

to a computer.  But it worked.  She let him have his crew back."



     "Jim, " The voice at his side was almost hesitant.

     "Yes, Heather."

     "I was thinking..."

     "If you and I are thinking along the same lines..."

     She beamed, "I somehow think we are."

     "We are.  I'll catch up with you later.  First, there's this party 
I have to attend."

     "Understood.  Duty and all that.  See you later.

     "Looking forward to it, Heather."



     "Attention, everybody," Harb Tanzer's voice echoed throughout

the ship.  There's a buffet set up in the officer's mess.  All real 
stuff, 

nothing from the replicators.  Eat up what the

diplomats didn't.  Gourmet food from a dozen worlds."


     "Single malt whiskey, the real thing," Scotty smiled hugely.

     "If there's anything left over, it gets thrown out. Earth

authorities won't let it off the ship."

     "Willn'a let that happen, Jim."

     "Of course not.  Knew I could count on you.  Waste not, want

not.  I've always been able to count on you.  Can't tell you how

pleased I am with the condition of the ship.  She's beautiful.

Never seen her look or run better.

     "That'll teach them not to decommission a perfectly good ship."

     "Thanks to you, we've made our point."



        "You look lost in thought, Jim."

     "Just thinking, Spock, how this is so different from the last

time I thought I was spending my last night on the Enterprise.  I

was miserable, a total wreck, and it took all you and Bones could

do to get me to the point where I could at least keep up

appearances in front of my crew."

     "Yes, it is different this time.  Knowing that you have a

challenge facing you that is the equal to what you've had, has

made a tremendous difference."

     As you should know, I'm never happy unless I'm disturbing the

universe."

     "The universe seems to be the better for your intervention."

     "And my life is the better for your intervention, t'hy'la."



     "Gentlebeings, I've got a new song," Uhura announced over the

general din.

     "Sing it for us, Nyota," various voices clamored.

     "Listen up everyone:

          "Kor was a Klingon, Kor proved a friend,

          "Kor set example of how strife can end.

          "Human and Klingon are really much the same,

          "Beings are beings, regardless of the name."



          "The past can be a burden that can wear us down

          "Prejudice, a sink hole in which we can drown.

          "But working together, sharing a goal

          "Makes it so clear we are parts of a whole.

          "Forget what we're labeled, think you and me,

          "And together we'll rejoice in our diversity."



          "Together we can do that which we can't do alone.

          "None is truly alien, but simply not yet known."



     "I guess it's official now," Jim smiled at Leonard McCoy.

"When Nyota puts it in song, it becomes part of the Enterprise

saga."

     "And quite a saga it is too.  One of the closest brushes with

death I've ever had taught me the value of diversity.  I was

bailed out by a being very, very, different from myself.  You

remember, don't you Naraht?"

     "I remember  very well."

     "What happened?" Nyota asked.

     "I was captured by the Romulans - kidnapped actually off a

civilian space liner.  It seemed they were going to execute

 me for my part in stealing the cloaking device."

     "They never forgave us for that," Jim nodded.

     "But I knew help was on the way and I exercised my Right of

Statement.  Great filibuster if I do say so myself.  Went on for

hours until this guy," he looked fondly at the Horta, shows up and

saves the day, and saves me.  He ate his way through many, many

kilometers of solid rock!"

     "You should have seen me," Naraht remarked, "I was so

enormous that you'd have had to beam me aboard using the cargo

transporter."

     "Scared the hell out of the Romulans when he popped up through

a stone floor," McCoy grinned. "No  humanoid could have

done what Naraht did.  Talk about rejoicing in our differences!"

     "The Right of Statement saved me once, too," Spock noted.

"That was when we stole the cloaking device.  Jim, disguised, as a

Romulan, would steal the device after I found out its location

from the Commander.  I was to keep the Commander occupied while

Jim got the device off the ship, then he would beam me back aboard

the Enterprise.

     "Did it work?"

     "In a manner of speaking. The Commander, a woman I should

mention, had her own ideas ."

      Jim laughed, "That's putting it mildly.  First, she invited

Spock to a private dinner in her quarters, plies him with wine,

and changes into something more comfortable, I think the

expression is."

     "I think I know what the lady had in mind," Chekov commented.

     "So did I.  Her remarks left no room for misunderstanding.

She was trying to convince me to defect, and was stopping at

nothing to be most persuasive.  And she was quite persuasive.  But

of course, the situation was under control."

     "Under control!  Right after the incident was over, Spock,

you told me that your interaction with the lady was rapidly moving

to a critical point when she found out the cloaking device was

missing.  Sounds like you had about 30 seconds before you'd have

to make a decision."

     "That decision was already made.  I would carry out my

mission, which was to keep the Commander occupied.  But that

became irrelevant.  Knowing what I had done, her behavior toward

me changed very abruptly and she then prepared to execute me. I

used the Right of Statement to fill up the time until my rescue."

     "And after that rather traumatic experience, you still wound

up with a Romulan woman," Saavik smiled.

     "Only half Romulan," Spock smiled back, "I know my

limitations."



     Jim and McCoy drifted away from the rest of group. "I can't

believe Spock actually told that story on himself," Jim shook his

head.  "He was so embarrassed about the incident at the time that

he could barely tell me about it."

     "Times and people change.  You, for example, seem

surprisingly cheery.  I figured you'd be crying in your beer or

whatever you were drinking the last night out."

     "Of course I'll miss this.  How could I not. As you've said

for many years I'm the quarter-deck breed."

     "You are."

     "I'm just changing quarter-decks, that's all.  The most

 challenging spot in the Federation's front line is now Klinzhai,

 where we're going, Bones.  I'll be on the firing line where I'm meant 
to be."

     "Yes, you will.  And I'll be with you.  I've cut my ties to

Starfleet, Jim.  Think they went down the recycling chute along

with the pieces of my dress uniform."

     "And I'm cutting mine too. It's not easy, but I'm doing it."



     "Good evening, gentlebeings, this is Harb Tanzer.  For those

of you who are interested, there is music for dancing in the Crew

Mess on Deck 6.



     "So what's this you were telling me about a promotion,

Hikaru."

     "Nothing definite yet. Just exploring the possibility.  I've

been approached, and of course I'm flattered."

     "Do you want to do it?"

     "That's the question, Pavel.  But speaking of promotions,

yours is about to come through, I hope."

     "I hope so.  I'll  wait and see what happens when it's all

sorted out.. But as for what happens right now, I see Tina over

there and if you'll excuse me..."



     "Captain,"

     "What is it, Harb?"

     "We've run out of whisky.  I don't understand how it

 disappeared so rapidly.  Should I have the synthesizers make

 more."

     "Don't think so. Not after the real stuff.  It would be a let

down."

     "But what do we have to replace it?"

     "See if McConel has any hootch left."

     "Will do."

     "But make sure you put aside enough champagne for tomorrow."

     "For a last toast to the ship.  I think that's a nice idea."

     "Don't tell anyone."


     "I'll miss this ship, and I'll miss the people on it."

     "It would be most illogical if you did not."

     "Logic has nothing to do with it.  There are people who are

dear to me that I won't be seeing very often.  Nyota has been

almost like an older sister to me ever since I joined the ship.

Jim and Leonard will be on Klinzhai."

     "Jim will need Leonard, not just in his official capacities

but as a friend."

     "He'll have Leonard, but he'll miss you."

     "And I'll most certainly miss him as well.  We'll keep in

 touch.  If he runs into a situation where he really needs me, I

 will know it and I'll be there."



     "Your attention.  This is Harb again.  I've found some more

real food and am setting up another buffet table in Rec One.  A

few more cases of wine have also surfaced from deep in the ship's

stores.  Since what we don't eat and drink gets thrown out, please

eat and drink and save me the trouble."



     "McConel, you told me earlier this evening that you had a

 matter you wished to discuss with me."

     "Yes I did, Captain.  If you'll excuse us..."



     "Heather seems to have found company," Nyota smiled, watching

 Jim and Heather slowly make their way out of Rec One.

     "Yes.  Probably good for them both."

     "Yes."

     "Thought I might have to stay up and drink with Jim on this last 
night."

     "But its not necessary."

     "Which means, lovely lady, that I'm off duty and can spend

rest of the evening as I choose."

     "Got any  Saurian brandy left?"


     "Attention everyone, this is Harb.  It has come to my

attention that there is still a sizable quantity of a potable

beverage available in the Engineering lounge.  All thirsty beings

are invited."





     Nogura finished his second run though the tapes.  "Jim, I

almost didn't believe your log entries and even after looking and

listening to the tapes, I still find it hard to believe.  I knew

Saavik was good, very good.  But this good!  And Chekov and Sulu

fought themselves a battle to end all battles.  I compared the one

they planned in the tank to the tape of the one that took place,

and it was a beautiful job."

     "You're not going to give me a bad time about a strategy that

included firing first?"

     "There is no other practical way of dealing with a ship that

can fire cloaked.  We're going to have to develop entirely new

strategies, and I can tell you that the Enterprise/Conquestor one

will wind up in the textbooks."

     "Everything went like clockwork.  If it hadn't been for Kor's

deciding to draw their fire, there would have been no casualties."

     "Yes, it's a shame about Kor.  But he died a hero as befits

 a Klingon warrior.

     "But the real hero of the engagement was Saavik.  She was

terrific.

     "She is terrific.  She's got more just plain valor than I

ever saw, a Vulcan intelligence that doesn't miss a trick, a raw

capacity for digging in and finding out what's going on that is

almost unbelievable, and audacity totally beyond belief.  She'll

take any challenge handed to her, say 'yes I can" and deliver.

But, she's not reckless or impulsive.  She took every opportunity

to practice, and planned to the finest detail everything that

could be planned.  That's her Vulcan half."

     "She has a great future in Starfleet.  And

she's half Romulan - another diversity that clearly has a role to

play."

     "We're going to need her, Heihachiro, a generation or two

down the pike, when we've got things firmed up with the Klingons, 

it will be time to do the same with the Romulans.

     "I know you value IDIC as I do.  My job now is to enrich the

Federation with what the Klingons have to offer.  But before many

more decades pass, the challenge will be the Romulans.  Saavik will

have a role to play in that,  I think."

     "I think you're right.  She may very well find her way to

diplomacy as you did.  I think Spock would encourage her."

     "Spock will support her, whatever she does.  In fact, he'll

probably get involved as well.  He's got his father's abilities as

both diplomat and scientist as well as more than a little of his

mother's empathy.  Even though she's not human, Saavik has really

brought out the human side of Spock's nature.  Marriage is

obviously good for him."

     "Maybe you should try it.  A wife can be a big help to an

Ambassador."

     "I was going to, but the lady had other plans."

     "Sorry, Jim.  It was none of my business."

     "It's ok.  I'll be a damn good Ambassador anyway.  After all

your support, I wouldn't want to let you down."

     "You won't.  It's 0915.  We should be on our way."

     "I really appreciate your willingness to not have any kind of

formal decommissioning ceremony.  This ship means too much to too

many of us.  We just couldn't take it."

     "I understand.  And I understood what I saw on the tour of

this ship this morning.  Bringing her in looking and running like

a brand new ship was a labor of love.  Am I right that everyone

got involved in it?"

     "I haven't polished so much brass since I was an Ensign,"

Kirk smiled.

     "The morale I sense is really extraordinary.  The people feel

like the ship looks - top form, heads up, proud.  Ordinarily, a

crew slacks off when they know a ship is to be decommissioned.

Things slide a bit."

     "But this isn't just any ship.  This is the Enterprise," Jim

pointed out.  "The Enterprise is the best ship in the fleet, and

everyone knows it.  They're feeling  good now, and will shortly be

feeling even better."

     "You didn't tell them?"

     "Spock and Sulu know.  Nobody else.  One more thing,

Heihachiro, before we leave, I want to thank you for taking the

court martial off my record.  Wasn't ashamed of it, not one bit.

But still its nice not to have it there."

     "Court martial?  What court martial?"

     Jim grinned, "We've argued a lot over the years.  But we've

always understood each other."



     The awards and recognitions went on. "First medal I ever got

for missing the target," Chekov quipped to widespread laughter.

     Admiral Nogura announced, "Lieutenant Commander Saavik,"

 "For conspicuous gallantry, daring, audacity, and courage

 which safeguarded this vessel and the Klingon cruiser,

 Conquestor, and preserved the peace, you are awarded the

 Federation Medal of Valor, promotion to the rank of Commander,

 and are posted to Starfleet's newest Starship as First Officer."

 Nogura beamed, and pinned on the medal and the new rank insignia

 as the assembly broke into applause.

     Jim turned to Spock who was standing beside him.  "She

deserves it."

     "Certainly," Spock said, not trying to hide the smile and the

look of pride on his face.

     "There is  one more award to make," Admiral Nogura spoke.

I award the Federation Medal of Valor, posthumously, to Commander

Kor of the Klingon Imperial Fleet.  Captain (Jim grinned at the

emphasis Nogura placed on 'Captain') Kirk will take the medal with

him when he goes to Klinzhai and present it to Kor's next of kin."



     Nogura looked at Kirk, nodded towards the viewport.  They

were coming into the outermost reaches of spacedock, and it was

time for him to acknowledge and reward someone in whom Jim Kirk

took a great deal of personal pride and satisfaction.  From a raw

though promising Ensign, a Starship Captain had evolved.

     The new ship was ahead of them, and rapidly coming into view.

"Pavel," he took Chekov by the arm, "Look, what do you think of

her."

     The timing was perfect.  Nogura had kept his promise.  As the

Enterprise and the new ship changed relative positions, her newly

painted registry letters came into view - NCC 1701-B.  Chekov

gasped, and with him, many others.  A work crew was stenciling her

name. The letters were plain -E N T E...

     It was one of the most satisfying moments of James Kirk's

career.  "She's yours, Pavel.  By the authority vested in me by

Starfleet Command, I commission you, Pavel Chekov, Captain of

Starfleet, and assign you command of the USS Enterprise, NCC 1701-

B."  Quickly, he took captain's rank insignia from his pocket and

pinned them on Chekov's uniform.

     "I, I - really don't know what to say. I've got an impossible

act to follow.  I , er, still can't believe the honor.  But I vill

do my werry best - I must be under stress when that Russian accent

shows up - to maintain our, the Enterprise's, reputation as the

best ship in the fleet.  I'll gif my Enterprise all the love and

loyalty you've given yours, Captain."

     "I know you will, Pavel.

     "Harb, anything left to drink for a toast.  I know the sun's

not over yardarm yet, but this is an occasion."

     There was of course something left.  Jim had seen to that.

     "Gentlebeings, I would like to propose a toast.  To the

 Starship Enterprise, a ship whose spirit transcends a particular

 hull, the best ship in Starfleet, to her Captain, Pavel Chekov,

 and her First Officer Saavik who will take her, as she has gone

 so many times, where no one had gone before."

     "Enterprise, Starship

     The places you've been to!... Nyota Uhura's clear voice rang

out and was joined by many others...

     "The things that you've shown us,

     The stories you'd tell.

     Enterprise, Starship

     We sing to your spirit,

     The beings who've served you

     So long and so well..."



     As the singing quieted, Nogura raised his hand. "May I have

your attention. "As long as Starfleet endures, there will be an

Enterprise.  And as long as there is an Enterprise, the spirit of

James T. Kirk will motivate those who sail on her. Captain Kirk

asked for, pushed hard for, the continuity of the Enterprise name

and registry number in Starfleet.  He did it for you, just as you

brought this Enterprise home looking great and running like a

dream, did it for him, and for yourselves.  I know those of you

who sail aboard the new Enterprise won't let him down."

     "I certainly won't," Chekov commented. "I vouldn't dare."



     "We are about to dock.

Captain to the bridge."

     "On my way."

     The junior officers on duty vacated their posts as the

Admiral, accompanied by the Enterprise's senior officers came on the 
bridge.

     Jim took the command chair.  The others took their places.

Nogura remained near the turbolift.

     "Bring her in, Commander Saavik.  Ahead, .10 impulse power."

     "Aye, Captain. .10 impulse."

     "Reduce power, .05 impulse."

     ".05 impulse."

     "Captain," Uhura said, "I have docking control.  They'll have

a tractor on us momentarily."

     "Stand by to disengage engines."

     "Standing by."

     "They have us, sir, Uhura said.

     "Disengage engines."

     The low voice of the impulse engines stopped.  There was

silence on the bridge.

     The docking port of the Enterprise meshed with the one in the

spacedock. "Docking completed, Captain."

     Another silence.

     "Docking has control of all environmental systems."

     "Shut down all stations."

     Lights went off at the stations on the bridge.

     "Gentlebeings and my good friends, we are home." Kirk rose

from the command seat.



     "One moment before we leave, please."  Admiral Nogura walked

over to Kirk.  He had something in his hand.  With a sudden jolt,

Kirk knew what it was.

     "Captain Kirk," Nogura said, "Starfleet presents you with

this vessel's commissioning plaque, as a token of all that you,

and this ship, have meant to our Federation these many years."

     Jim took the plaque, and the strength of his emotion shook

him.  He was barely able to say thank you.

     Jim looked at the plaque he held in his hand - nearly thirty

years of his life was represented by that piece of engraved metal.

     On one side, the commissioning plaque of the USS Enterprise

NCC 1701 ... All the memories, from the day he took command from

Captain Pike; the early missions; the many adventures of the five

year mission that had bound his life with the ship, and with

Spock's and Leonard McCoy's; what he viewed as the lost years - an

Admiral.  Him, an Admiral, not a temporary one for reasons of

protocol, but the real article. It didn't suit him.

..Then V'ger, Khan, Spock lost and found, and finally the day he

grabbed this piece of metal as he ran for the transporter, and he

killed his ship.

     He was aware of the tears welling and didn't care.  He knew

the bridge crew was filing out past him, granting him the courtesy

of being the last off the bridge.

     But then he smiled again. There had been another Enterprise,

NCC 1701-A, and the commissioning data for it was engraved on the

other side of the same plaque. More years, more adventures, good

good years for the most part if you didn't count the Klingon penal

colony, and now the peace, foretold so long ago by the Organians.

now signed and sealed on Organia.

      His task now, his new one, was to preserve and enhance that peace,

to make sure that the diversity represented by the Klingons found

its place in the matrix of IDIC that was the Federation.

     Yes, for so many years, the Enterprise had been his life, his

love.  But time, in normal space anyway, moved in only one

direction -Forward - and so must he. It was time to let go, and he

did.

     Chekov was getting into the turbolift, the last of his bridge

crew to leave. Jim stopped him, "Pavel, do you think you could

find a place for this on your Enterprise?" He handed Chekov the

commissioning plaque.

     "You have the conn, Captain Chekov." And James T. Kirk left the

bridge of the Starship Enterprise for the last time, left without

looking back.

                   -----    THE   END ------