The Ballad of James and Leonard - Chapter 3
Title:The Ballad of James and Leonard (3/?)
Series: Star Trek AOS
Author:neko-fish
Beta:castofone
Pairings: James/Leonard, future Spock/Uhura
Rating: NC-17
Summary: In 1893, a blue-eyed stranger barged into McCoy's clinic with a woman in his arms, desperate for help. For Leonard, there was just no going back after that. (The prequel/sequel of 'The Ballad of Jim and Bones' but works as a standalone.)
Warnings: 1890s AU, highlight for more -> character death, racism, mentions of sex, alcohol, swearing, and again, my crappy summary...
Chapter 1// Chapter 2
Chapter 3:
Much to the dismay and physical pain of Leonard’s behind, it was a two day ride before they came across a little tribe. They slept out in the open when the weather allowed it and in a tent when otherwise. Sure, James kept him busy with small talk, debates and other ‘distractions,’ but whenever he had a moment of silence to think, his mind told him to stop, turn around and go home to his daughter.
In short, he was terrified.
One night, as Leonard stared into their rather small camp fire, he thought to himself, ‘You’re in over your head, Leonard. What the hell are you thinking? Riding off to god knows where with a man you barely know? You’re probably going to get yourself killed before anything else. You’re going to die of typhoid and dysentery and it’s going to be disgusting. You’ll get those pink spots on your lower chest and-’
Then James snapped him out of his reverie. “Hey, Leonard?”
Immediately looking over, the doctor saw that the man’s head was tilted upwards towards the sky, looking so at serene that it took his breath away. “What is it?”
“Do you believe in serendipity?”
Taking a moment to consider the question, he had to conclude, “No, I don’t think I do, not really. Why?”
The blond shrugged and smiled at him. “No real reason. I was just thinking about how glad I am that you’re here. I know it couldn’t have been easy for you to leave Atlanta. But for me, it’s a lot easier to face the world with you around, so thanks. Thanks a lot for being here…with me.”
Leonard’s anxiety dissipated after that.
--
When they came across the Vulcan tribe in the Indian Territory, they were beginning to run low on provisions. After they explained their situation to the tribe, they were calmly invited in and given food and shelter for the duration of their stay.
Much to Leonard’s surprise, they were even given a tour through the small settlement. They ventured into the long house to watch little Vulcans learn by standing in rows and memorizing facts. They even had the honour of sitting in the council of elders during their weekly gathering to discuss the problems concerning ‘outsiders’.
The Vulcans turned out to be very advanced in their theories and practices despite having little to no contact with the outside world. They lived in peace with the other tribes around them, generally adhering to their non-violent philosophy. Though reserved and wary of outsiders, a couple Vulcans kept James busy by engaging in debates with him on hunting techniques and ‘outsider’ problems, while Leonard opted for discussions around medical and scientific practices.
“I definitely learnt a lot today,” said James on their first evening in their assigned living area. James grinned excitedly at Leonard. “Those garbs look good on you, by the way. So are you having fun around here, Leonard?”
The doctor shrugged. He had to admit, that the Vulcans’ clothing was exceptionally comfortable despite how stiff it looked. “I’m alright. They have very in depth knowledge of medical plants around here. They agreed to teach me more tomorrow. You seem to be enjoying yourself.”
“This place is amazing. I wouldn’t mind staying here for awhile. They even promised to take me hunting tomorrow. It’s going to be great.” Blue eyes scanned their surroundings for a moment. “But changing the subject, they do that eyebrow thing a lot, don’t they?”
As though on cue, the doctor raised a brow. “What eyebrow thing?”
“Yeah, kind of like what you’re doing right now.” The blond grinned. “You’re actually pretty good at that, Leonard. You must feel right at home here. I’ve still got to work on mine.”
The brunet could only laugh as he watched James ‘practice.’
“Don’t be such an infant. If you keep it up, you’ll probably end up offending someone - not that they’d show anger or any other kind of emotion. For all you know, you could be cussing up a storm with your eyebrows right now.”
James stopped his practicing and turned to him. “You know, I have to admit, as impressive as everything here is, there’s this one thing I’m especially surprised about.”
Leonard blinked, confused. “Which thing? The thing where they don’t seem to have any emotions whatsoever? Their very advanced science and medical practices? How all their children are smarter than the average Joe? That thing where despite their brain power, they’ve never considered taking over the country?”
Blue eyes regarded the doctor seriously. “Nope. All those things are fascinating, but I’m talking about pon farr! Don’t tell me they didn’t tell you about pon farr! They must’ve! It’s part of their medical history! Every seven years, they have this ‘have sex or die’ thing! How surprising is that? They’re so stoic and logical all the time, it’s hard to imagine them turning into raging beasts every seven years.”
Taking a moment to get the ‘raging beast’ image out of his mind, Leonard shook his head incredulously. “Unbelievable. We’ve been here for one day and the thing you’re most intrigued by is their mating rituals?”
“But it’s not just any mating ritual! It’s pon farr!”
--
They were sitting in an empty tent after James got back from his big hunt with the Vulcans.
“You’re not allowed to go hunting with them again.” Leonard growled as he applied his newly ground ointment to the cuts that the blond was sporting.
James immediately protested. “But I got a nice, big buck, didn’t I!?”
“Yeah, after it chased you for a mile! What the hell were you thinking, James!?”
“I was thinking ‘Fuck, I wish I had a gun on me.’” Then he added with a smile, “And I was thinking about you, of course. You and that poor lonely, broken bed we left behind.”
The doctor frowned. “Stop joking around, you could’ve died!”
“But I’m fine!”
“Only because those Vulcans managed to get the damn beast before it skewered you! My god, man, you’re a walking disaster just waiting to happen!”
Blue eyes studied him closely for a moment. “That’s alright, because I know you’ll always be there to fix me, right, Leonard?”
Focussing his attention on the cuts, the brunet sighed. “You know I’ll always try, but…though I pray it never comes, there might be a time when I won’t be able to for one reason or another, James.”
“Then I can only hope that you’ll be the last thing I see. I’d sooner die than let anything happen to you.”
Leonard scowled. “Don’t say something so morbid so easily. It’s unsettling. You don’t have a death wish, do you? Oh wait, you were nearly ran through by a deer today - the gentlest creature in the woods!”
James laughed. “You’re not going to let that go anytime soon, are you?”
“What do you expect me to do if you die?”
“Go home?”
Punching the blonde’s arm, hazel eyes narrowed. “That’s not funny. You seriously could’ve died.”
James merely smiled and kissed the doctor lightly. “If I had died earlier, at least know that my last thoughts would’ve been of you.”
--
On their fourth night, as they sat by the fire, the blond leaned over and whispered to him, “Look over there, Leonard. Do you see the one sitting there with the hair and the eyebrows?”
Leonard was sure that if he rolled his eyes any harder, they would’ve rolled right out of his skull. “Oh my god, James, could you be any more vague? I’m sure I see him but I have no idea which one you’re talking about because every single one of have hair and pretty much the same eyebrows. Are there any distinctive features on this guy you’re looking at?”
James squinted slightly. “The younger one sitting by himself with the short black hair and serious eyes? Does that help at all? He’s looking kind of lost.”
Scanning the many faces around them, the doctor shook his head. “No. That doesn’t help at all.” Then he asked skeptically, “How can you tell if the guy’s looking lost? Vulcans aren’t exactly expressive people.”
“His eyebrows.”
“Oh, yes, I can see it now - their expressive eyebrows. How’d I ever miss that,” he drawled sarcastically.
The blond shrugged and grinned good-naturedly. “I’m just good at reading Vulcan eyebrows, I guess. I think he’s the one with the anthropologist for a mother. Someone mentioned it really subtly earlier. Apparently she was killed last year for being married to a Vulcan.” Putting his bowl down, he got up. “I’ll be right back. I’m going to go talk to him. Maybe he’ll join us.”
Watching the blond approach one of the Vulcans, he snorted to himself. “Oh, of course. He meant that one. How did I not know which one he was talking about?”
Minutes later, James returned, looking thoughtful. “His name’s Spock. I couldn’t get through to him today. I’ll have to try again tomorrow. Help me come up with logical arguments for him to join us. I’ve got this feeling he’ll do us a lot of good.”
Hazel eyes blinked. “Logical arguments? Dammit, James, I’m a doctor, not a logician.”
--
“I’m afraid that’s highly illogical.”
James rubbed the back of his neck in thought, the cogs in his brain turning at a speed that Leonard had never felt (or probably known) before. “Yes, but if we were to look at your personal experience, wouldn’t you say that by being only half Vulcan, it has caused you emotional distress?”
Spock raised his eyebrow. “That would be correct.”
“And would it be correct to say that the tormentors were being illogical in their actions?”
“Yes. Physical feature-wise, we are all nearly identical. There shouldn’t have been any discrepancies if they were basing their argument on features alone.”
The blond mimicked the man and raised his brow. “Are you saying that they should’ve based their judgements solely on physical features then?”
Spock shook his head. “Of course not. Physical features are merely the external appearance of a person. It has very little to do with our intellect and internal capabilities.”
“So basically, regardless of appearance, a person’s a person.”
“To simplify it, yes. I believe that one should make their judgment on what’s logical.”
“For example?” Leonard asked helpfully.
Turning to the doctor, Spock replied, “For example, if a person were to torment another needlessly and without any clear reasoning, it would be logical to say that this person is acting irrationally. One should act on logic, not emotion or other irrational things.”
“So you base your judgment on whether or not someone’s logical in their actions,” James concluded.
The Vulcan considered it for a moment. “Yes, I suppose, to a large extent.”
The blond nodded. “Alright, understood. Now, let’s leave that aside for a moment. I need you to picture tens of thousands of these tormentors everywhere, and people who are being hurt needlessly because of differences in their physical features. According to your logic, these tormentors are being illogical in their actions as physical features are ‘merely the external appearance of a person.’ However, that’s what’s happening right now, all around us. It’s unsettling thinking about all these crazy people, isn’t it?”
Spock replied stiffly, “Slightly.”
James smiled, sensing that progress was being made. “So in order to put an end to that discomfort, the logical standpoint would be to deal with these tormentors, either by changing their behaviour or by physically disabling them.”
The Vulcan dipped his head in agreement. “That would be a logical argument.”
“Then I propose you come with us because we’re searching for a method. And I think your input would be a great asset to us.”
“I agree that logical input would be valuable in most situations if not all. Mr. James, you’ve been debating this topic with me for three days now. Is this all just so I’d join you in your plight?”
The blond chuckled lightly. “Yes, pretty much. So will you help us?”
“You could’ve used the events of my mother’s passing in order to persuade me. But you didn’t. I am very curious as to why you chose to go through three days of debate instead.”
James shrugged. “Because I thought you were worth racking my brains for three days? It was actually pretty fun so I didn’t really mind. We really could use some of your Vulcan logic, Mr. Spock.” Then he smiled. “Look, I’ll even give you a special offer. Come with us to the next town and if you find that your beliefs don’t align with ours, or that you don’t approve of the way we see and do things, then you can leave and we won’t try to stop you.”
The Vulcan raised a brow. “Of course. Naturally, I had every intention of doing that very thing. It would be illogical of me to remain with people whose ideals and behaviour conflict with my own.”
From the side where he’d been sitting and trying his best to listen attentively, Leonard chuckled. “Very nice. He just called you stupid in more words than was needed. So how come I never got that special offer of yours, Just James?”
James smiled at him, ignoring his first comment. “Because you’re special, obviously. You’re the only one who won’t ever get that offer, Leonard. You and me, we’re in this for the long run.”
“Well, that doesn’t seem very fair,” he drawled.
“I guess that’s just what you get for stabbing me with all those needles. You know I’m terrified of them. I confronted my fears for you, Leonard. You should be happy about that!”
“I gave you vaccinations against potentially fatal diseases, you damn infant.”
Watching their interactions, Spock nodded slightly to himself. “Fascinating…I believe it’d be beneficial for me to follow you on your journey. There appears to be much I can learn from you and from the world outside the tribe.”
The blond shook his head. “You won’t be following anyone. You’ll be joining us and you’ll be travelling right beside us as a companion. Is that alright with you, Mr. Spock?”
The Vulcan almost smiled. “Yes. In fact, that’s more than all right. I’d be most pleased to accept your offer, Mr. James. Thank you.”
--
Spock’s decision to leave was not well met by the elders of the community. After news got out, the young Vulcan was immediately summoned to the council of elders. And unsurprisingly, James dragged Leonard over towards the building to find a way to eavesdrop.
The doctor scowled. “You have no manners at all.”
James merely patted him on the arm and smiled in reply.
From the inside, they could hear the voice of the chief and Spock conversing.
“Spock, you have surpassed the expectations of your instructors. But I hear you have been considering following our visitors on their journey?”
Spock’s equally neutral voice replied, “That is correct.”
“Consider it no further. We have decided that you are more than capable of joining the council. It is truly remarkable, Spock, that you have achieved so much despite your disadvantage. All rise.”
There was a pause. “If you would clarify, to what disadvantage are you referring?”
“Your outsider mother,” was the elder’s blunt response.
Outside the building, James winced.
“Council, I must decline.”
“No Vulcan has ever declined admission to the council!”
“Then, as I am half-outsider, your record remains untarnished.”
A new voice interjected. “Spock, you have made a commitment to honour the Vulcan way.”
Then the chief asked, “Why are you doing this, Spock? Is it to satisfy your emotional need to rebel?”
“The only emotion I wish to convey is gratitude. Thank you, Elders, for your consideration.” Although the Vulcan’s words were neutral and polite, his tone clearly spoke otherwise. “Live long and prosper.”
James and Leonard immediately skittered off when they heard Spock leaving the council. Trying his best to feign innocence, the blond asked, “So how’d it go with the council?”
From beside him, Leonard shook his head and rolled his eyes.
Spock raised a brow. “It went well. If you’ll excuse me, I need a moment to gather my belongings and then I’ll be ready to depart.”
The blond nodded. “Take all the time you need.”
--
After Spock packed, the three of them were getting ready to leave the tribe when an older Vulcan Leonard recognized as ‘Sarek’ approached them with his horse. “I trust that you’ve packed enough provision for three, Spock.”
The Vulcan raised his head. “Father.”
There was a long pause between them.
Sarek spared a glance over to James and Leonard. “So you really are going to leave with these outsiders.”
“That is correct. I’m afraid I feel the need to see the world beyond our tribe as unwise as it may be.”
“What is necessary is never unwise.” When Spock hesitated, his father continued, “You will always be a child of two worlds. I am grateful for this, and for you.”
Spock lowered his head. “I continue to feel anger for the one who took mother’s life - an anger I cannot control.”
Gently, the older Vulcan spoke, “I believe…that she would say, ‘Do not try to.’ You asked me once why I married your mother. I married her because I loved her. And I am very sorry to have lost her.”
“As am I,” Spock agreed quietly. “By going with Mr. James and Doctor McCoy, I hope to see more of the world that mother came from. I want to understand why her life was taken. And I would like to understand and change the beliefs and values that cause these outsiders to turn on their own kind. I wish to be part of the remedy of these problems, father.”
Sarek nodded thoughtfully. “You know, you were named after one of Vulcan’s early society builders. I understand what these young men are setting out to do, and I think that it is a very worthy cause to pursue. It is also one that very few would have the courage to face. Seeing as their cause resonates with you, I will not hinder you, Spock. Take this horse, she was a gift from your mother, and know that whatever you choose to be, you will have proud parents.”
Accepting the reins, the younger Vulcan dipped his head gratefully. “Thank you.”
Then turning to James and Leonard, Sarek held his hand up, forming their customary gesture. “Mr. James, Doctor McCoy, thank you for your visitation. We found your presence most pleasant. I wish you the best of luck on your journey. Live long as prosper.”
The three of them returned the gesture and set off.
They rode in silence for a couple hours before James finally broke the silence. “So, Mr. Spock, is Spock your first or last name? Or do you guys not have those in your tribe?”
The Vulcan raised a brow. “I do have a full name if that’s what you’re inquiring. However, I don’t believe you would be able to pronounce it.”
“Oh?” Blue eyes gleamed at the challenge. “It can’t be that bad. Just try me.”
“Very well. It’s S'chn T'gai Spock.”
There was a long pause.
James exchanged incredulous glances with Leonard for a moment before clearing his throat. “Well then, I’m not even going to try to repeat that. I guess Mr. Spock works just as well, right, Leonard?”
“Don’t drag me into this. I was just going to call him Spock anyways.”
“I believe this is a situation in which I am obligated to say ‘I told you so.’”
The doctor burst into laughter while the blond sulked.
They rode in silence for another hour or so before James started again. “So…what’s pon farr like?”
Leonard pinched the bridge of his nose and sighed. “Unbelievable.”
--
They stopped at the first city they passed to get Spock a proper suit. Getting off their horses, Leonard stretched out his back and groaned uncomfortably. “I’m way too old to be travelling like this. Who the hell decided that horses would make good modes of transportation anyways?”
“You’re such an old grump sometimes.” James laughed. “Tell you what, Leonard. We’ll stay the night here for your poor back’s sake. I’ll go with Spock to find him something comfortable and not so eye-catching to wear. Do you want to come with?”
The doctor shook his head. “I need to go find a telephone to give Jo and Christine a call. I’ll find a place for us to stay tonight too because I refuse to sleep in the stables. You might be used to it, but I’m definitely too old to be doing shit like that. Try to stay out of trouble, you hooligans - especially you, James.”
The blond grinned innocently. “I don’t know what you’re talking about, Leonard.”
Leonard rolled his eyes. “Whatever. I’ll meet you two back here when I’m finished.”
Making their way towards the streets, James patted him on the back. “Sounds good. You stay out of trouble as well, doc. Don’t go around picking up potential outlaws now.”
“Oh no, meeting one potential outlaw was more than enough for me. And by the way, I didn’t pick you up. You came barging in and hurled a woman in labour into my arms.”
As they parted ways, the blond laughed. “Those were good times, doc. I’ll see you later. Come on, Spock, let’s see if we can get you a suit. I’ll even tell you about how I met Leonard on the way.”
Waving the two off, Leonard snorted and walked off.
--
Later, after they met up and made their way to the inn, in the confines of their room, James looked around, curious about how there were three beds instead of two. Leonard had found it strange as well, being too used to sharing a bed with the blond than he wanted to admit. But for Spock’s comfort sake, the doctor decided that having individual beds would be better.
The blond shrugged off the number of beds easily enough and asked the brunet conversationally, “So how’s Joanna? And the guys at the clinic?”
“Joanna’s doing just fine. The guys are the same as always. They all asked after you.”
Blue eyes lit up at being mentioned in the conversation. “Oh, did they really? And what’d you tell them? Did you tell them about how gallant I was during that hunt with the Vulcans? Or how amazing I was during my three day debate with Spock?”
Leonard shrugged nonchalantly. “I told them that you were being as obnoxious as ever and nearly got gutted by a deer of all things. And then you spent three days getting your ass verbally kicked by a Vulcan.”
James pouted. “Well, that’s not very nice of you, Leonard.”
Ignoring the blond, he turned to Spock. “I told them about you too, Mr. Spock. They’re very curious about you. Maybe you’ll get to meet them if you stick around with us long enough.” Then he added, “Nice suit, by the way. It suits you pretty well.”
Spock replied wordlessly with a raised eyebrow.
Figuring that he wasn’t going to get much more of a reaction from the Vulcan, Leonard continued, “Apparently there’s a doctor in New Orleans who’s requesting my presence. There’s been a mild breakout over there and they need all the help they can get before it gets any worse.”
Without any hesitation, James smiled. “I guess we’re heading to New Orleans next then.”
Pouring himself and the blond a glass of bourbon that he had bought, Leonard blinked. “That was a lot easier than I expected.”
The blond shrugged. “I’m not going to risk making you hate me because I held you back from your life’s calling for no good reason. Saving people’s what you do. It’s what makes you so damn amazing, doc.”
“Are you going to go on about that again? I’ve told you time and time again: it’s my job.” Grabbing a third glass, the doctor asked the Vulcan, “Do you drink, Mr. Spock?”
“On occasion,” the man answered vaguely.
Leonard stared blankly at the taller man. “…and will this particular occasion be one of which you partake in drinking with us? It was a yes or no question, dammit.”
Spock shook his head. “I believe I will decline your invitation this time. I must say though, Doctor McCoy, I am very surprised that you’re still willing to drink after the…repercussions last time.”
Hazel eyes widened. “Dammit, James, out of all things you could’ve told him, why that!?”
James grinned and took a sip from his glass. “What can I say? We’re a team now. I had to break the ice somehow. It worked, didn’t it?”
Leonard could’ve sworn that the Vulcan looked almost amused.
Back to Chapter 2
Onwards to Chapter 4
Series: Star Trek AOS
Author:neko-fish
Beta:castofone
Pairings: James/Leonard, future Spock/Uhura
Rating: NC-17
Summary: In 1893, a blue-eyed stranger barged into McCoy's clinic with a woman in his arms, desperate for help. For Leonard, there was just no going back after that. (The prequel/sequel of 'The Ballad of Jim and Bones' but works as a standalone.)
Warnings: 1890s AU, highlight for more -> character death, racism, mentions of sex, alcohol, swearing, and again, my crappy summary...
Chapter 1// Chapter 2
Chapter 3:
Much to the dismay and physical pain of Leonard’s behind, it was a two day ride before they came across a little tribe. They slept out in the open when the weather allowed it and in a tent when otherwise. Sure, James kept him busy with small talk, debates and other ‘distractions,’ but whenever he had a moment of silence to think, his mind told him to stop, turn around and go home to his daughter.
In short, he was terrified.
One night, as Leonard stared into their rather small camp fire, he thought to himself, ‘You’re in over your head, Leonard. What the hell are you thinking? Riding off to god knows where with a man you barely know? You’re probably going to get yourself killed before anything else. You’re going to die of typhoid and dysentery and it’s going to be disgusting. You’ll get those pink spots on your lower chest and-’
Then James snapped him out of his reverie. “Hey, Leonard?”
Immediately looking over, the doctor saw that the man’s head was tilted upwards towards the sky, looking so at serene that it took his breath away. “What is it?”
“Do you believe in serendipity?”
Taking a moment to consider the question, he had to conclude, “No, I don’t think I do, not really. Why?”
The blond shrugged and smiled at him. “No real reason. I was just thinking about how glad I am that you’re here. I know it couldn’t have been easy for you to leave Atlanta. But for me, it’s a lot easier to face the world with you around, so thanks. Thanks a lot for being here…with me.”
Leonard’s anxiety dissipated after that.
--
When they came across the Vulcan tribe in the Indian Territory, they were beginning to run low on provisions. After they explained their situation to the tribe, they were calmly invited in and given food and shelter for the duration of their stay.
Much to Leonard’s surprise, they were even given a tour through the small settlement. They ventured into the long house to watch little Vulcans learn by standing in rows and memorizing facts. They even had the honour of sitting in the council of elders during their weekly gathering to discuss the problems concerning ‘outsiders’.
The Vulcans turned out to be very advanced in their theories and practices despite having little to no contact with the outside world. They lived in peace with the other tribes around them, generally adhering to their non-violent philosophy. Though reserved and wary of outsiders, a couple Vulcans kept James busy by engaging in debates with him on hunting techniques and ‘outsider’ problems, while Leonard opted for discussions around medical and scientific practices.
“I definitely learnt a lot today,” said James on their first evening in their assigned living area. James grinned excitedly at Leonard. “Those garbs look good on you, by the way. So are you having fun around here, Leonard?”
The doctor shrugged. He had to admit, that the Vulcans’ clothing was exceptionally comfortable despite how stiff it looked. “I’m alright. They have very in depth knowledge of medical plants around here. They agreed to teach me more tomorrow. You seem to be enjoying yourself.”
“This place is amazing. I wouldn’t mind staying here for awhile. They even promised to take me hunting tomorrow. It’s going to be great.” Blue eyes scanned their surroundings for a moment. “But changing the subject, they do that eyebrow thing a lot, don’t they?”
As though on cue, the doctor raised a brow. “What eyebrow thing?”
“Yeah, kind of like what you’re doing right now.” The blond grinned. “You’re actually pretty good at that, Leonard. You must feel right at home here. I’ve still got to work on mine.”
The brunet could only laugh as he watched James ‘practice.’
“Don’t be such an infant. If you keep it up, you’ll probably end up offending someone - not that they’d show anger or any other kind of emotion. For all you know, you could be cussing up a storm with your eyebrows right now.”
James stopped his practicing and turned to him. “You know, I have to admit, as impressive as everything here is, there’s this one thing I’m especially surprised about.”
Leonard blinked, confused. “Which thing? The thing where they don’t seem to have any emotions whatsoever? Their very advanced science and medical practices? How all their children are smarter than the average Joe? That thing where despite their brain power, they’ve never considered taking over the country?”
Blue eyes regarded the doctor seriously. “Nope. All those things are fascinating, but I’m talking about pon farr! Don’t tell me they didn’t tell you about pon farr! They must’ve! It’s part of their medical history! Every seven years, they have this ‘have sex or die’ thing! How surprising is that? They’re so stoic and logical all the time, it’s hard to imagine them turning into raging beasts every seven years.”
Taking a moment to get the ‘raging beast’ image out of his mind, Leonard shook his head incredulously. “Unbelievable. We’ve been here for one day and the thing you’re most intrigued by is their mating rituals?”
“But it’s not just any mating ritual! It’s pon farr!”
--
They were sitting in an empty tent after James got back from his big hunt with the Vulcans.
“You’re not allowed to go hunting with them again.” Leonard growled as he applied his newly ground ointment to the cuts that the blond was sporting.
James immediately protested. “But I got a nice, big buck, didn’t I!?”
“Yeah, after it chased you for a mile! What the hell were you thinking, James!?”
“I was thinking ‘Fuck, I wish I had a gun on me.’” Then he added with a smile, “And I was thinking about you, of course. You and that poor lonely, broken bed we left behind.”
The doctor frowned. “Stop joking around, you could’ve died!”
“But I’m fine!”
“Only because those Vulcans managed to get the damn beast before it skewered you! My god, man, you’re a walking disaster just waiting to happen!”
Blue eyes studied him closely for a moment. “That’s alright, because I know you’ll always be there to fix me, right, Leonard?”
Focussing his attention on the cuts, the brunet sighed. “You know I’ll always try, but…though I pray it never comes, there might be a time when I won’t be able to for one reason or another, James.”
“Then I can only hope that you’ll be the last thing I see. I’d sooner die than let anything happen to you.”
Leonard scowled. “Don’t say something so morbid so easily. It’s unsettling. You don’t have a death wish, do you? Oh wait, you were nearly ran through by a deer today - the gentlest creature in the woods!”
James laughed. “You’re not going to let that go anytime soon, are you?”
“What do you expect me to do if you die?”
“Go home?”
Punching the blonde’s arm, hazel eyes narrowed. “That’s not funny. You seriously could’ve died.”
James merely smiled and kissed the doctor lightly. “If I had died earlier, at least know that my last thoughts would’ve been of you.”
--
On their fourth night, as they sat by the fire, the blond leaned over and whispered to him, “Look over there, Leonard. Do you see the one sitting there with the hair and the eyebrows?”
Leonard was sure that if he rolled his eyes any harder, they would’ve rolled right out of his skull. “Oh my god, James, could you be any more vague? I’m sure I see him but I have no idea which one you’re talking about because every single one of have hair and pretty much the same eyebrows. Are there any distinctive features on this guy you’re looking at?”
James squinted slightly. “The younger one sitting by himself with the short black hair and serious eyes? Does that help at all? He’s looking kind of lost.”
Scanning the many faces around them, the doctor shook his head. “No. That doesn’t help at all.” Then he asked skeptically, “How can you tell if the guy’s looking lost? Vulcans aren’t exactly expressive people.”
“His eyebrows.”
“Oh, yes, I can see it now - their expressive eyebrows. How’d I ever miss that,” he drawled sarcastically.
The blond shrugged and grinned good-naturedly. “I’m just good at reading Vulcan eyebrows, I guess. I think he’s the one with the anthropologist for a mother. Someone mentioned it really subtly earlier. Apparently she was killed last year for being married to a Vulcan.” Putting his bowl down, he got up. “I’ll be right back. I’m going to go talk to him. Maybe he’ll join us.”
Watching the blond approach one of the Vulcans, he snorted to himself. “Oh, of course. He meant that one. How did I not know which one he was talking about?”
Minutes later, James returned, looking thoughtful. “His name’s Spock. I couldn’t get through to him today. I’ll have to try again tomorrow. Help me come up with logical arguments for him to join us. I’ve got this feeling he’ll do us a lot of good.”
Hazel eyes blinked. “Logical arguments? Dammit, James, I’m a doctor, not a logician.”
--
“I’m afraid that’s highly illogical.”
James rubbed the back of his neck in thought, the cogs in his brain turning at a speed that Leonard had never felt (or probably known) before. “Yes, but if we were to look at your personal experience, wouldn’t you say that by being only half Vulcan, it has caused you emotional distress?”
Spock raised his eyebrow. “That would be correct.”
“And would it be correct to say that the tormentors were being illogical in their actions?”
“Yes. Physical feature-wise, we are all nearly identical. There shouldn’t have been any discrepancies if they were basing their argument on features alone.”
The blond mimicked the man and raised his brow. “Are you saying that they should’ve based their judgements solely on physical features then?”
Spock shook his head. “Of course not. Physical features are merely the external appearance of a person. It has very little to do with our intellect and internal capabilities.”
“So basically, regardless of appearance, a person’s a person.”
“To simplify it, yes. I believe that one should make their judgment on what’s logical.”
“For example?” Leonard asked helpfully.
Turning to the doctor, Spock replied, “For example, if a person were to torment another needlessly and without any clear reasoning, it would be logical to say that this person is acting irrationally. One should act on logic, not emotion or other irrational things.”
“So you base your judgment on whether or not someone’s logical in their actions,” James concluded.
The Vulcan considered it for a moment. “Yes, I suppose, to a large extent.”
The blond nodded. “Alright, understood. Now, let’s leave that aside for a moment. I need you to picture tens of thousands of these tormentors everywhere, and people who are being hurt needlessly because of differences in their physical features. According to your logic, these tormentors are being illogical in their actions as physical features are ‘merely the external appearance of a person.’ However, that’s what’s happening right now, all around us. It’s unsettling thinking about all these crazy people, isn’t it?”
Spock replied stiffly, “Slightly.”
James smiled, sensing that progress was being made. “So in order to put an end to that discomfort, the logical standpoint would be to deal with these tormentors, either by changing their behaviour or by physically disabling them.”
The Vulcan dipped his head in agreement. “That would be a logical argument.”
“Then I propose you come with us because we’re searching for a method. And I think your input would be a great asset to us.”
“I agree that logical input would be valuable in most situations if not all. Mr. James, you’ve been debating this topic with me for three days now. Is this all just so I’d join you in your plight?”
The blond chuckled lightly. “Yes, pretty much. So will you help us?”
“You could’ve used the events of my mother’s passing in order to persuade me. But you didn’t. I am very curious as to why you chose to go through three days of debate instead.”
James shrugged. “Because I thought you were worth racking my brains for three days? It was actually pretty fun so I didn’t really mind. We really could use some of your Vulcan logic, Mr. Spock.” Then he smiled. “Look, I’ll even give you a special offer. Come with us to the next town and if you find that your beliefs don’t align with ours, or that you don’t approve of the way we see and do things, then you can leave and we won’t try to stop you.”
The Vulcan raised a brow. “Of course. Naturally, I had every intention of doing that very thing. It would be illogical of me to remain with people whose ideals and behaviour conflict with my own.”
From the side where he’d been sitting and trying his best to listen attentively, Leonard chuckled. “Very nice. He just called you stupid in more words than was needed. So how come I never got that special offer of yours, Just James?”
James smiled at him, ignoring his first comment. “Because you’re special, obviously. You’re the only one who won’t ever get that offer, Leonard. You and me, we’re in this for the long run.”
“Well, that doesn’t seem very fair,” he drawled.
“I guess that’s just what you get for stabbing me with all those needles. You know I’m terrified of them. I confronted my fears for you, Leonard. You should be happy about that!”
“I gave you vaccinations against potentially fatal diseases, you damn infant.”
Watching their interactions, Spock nodded slightly to himself. “Fascinating…I believe it’d be beneficial for me to follow you on your journey. There appears to be much I can learn from you and from the world outside the tribe.”
The blond shook his head. “You won’t be following anyone. You’ll be joining us and you’ll be travelling right beside us as a companion. Is that alright with you, Mr. Spock?”
The Vulcan almost smiled. “Yes. In fact, that’s more than all right. I’d be most pleased to accept your offer, Mr. James. Thank you.”
--
Spock’s decision to leave was not well met by the elders of the community. After news got out, the young Vulcan was immediately summoned to the council of elders. And unsurprisingly, James dragged Leonard over towards the building to find a way to eavesdrop.
The doctor scowled. “You have no manners at all.”
James merely patted him on the arm and smiled in reply.
From the inside, they could hear the voice of the chief and Spock conversing.
“Spock, you have surpassed the expectations of your instructors. But I hear you have been considering following our visitors on their journey?”
Spock’s equally neutral voice replied, “That is correct.”
“Consider it no further. We have decided that you are more than capable of joining the council. It is truly remarkable, Spock, that you have achieved so much despite your disadvantage. All rise.”
There was a pause. “If you would clarify, to what disadvantage are you referring?”
“Your outsider mother,” was the elder’s blunt response.
Outside the building, James winced.
“Council, I must decline.”
“No Vulcan has ever declined admission to the council!”
“Then, as I am half-outsider, your record remains untarnished.”
A new voice interjected. “Spock, you have made a commitment to honour the Vulcan way.”
Then the chief asked, “Why are you doing this, Spock? Is it to satisfy your emotional need to rebel?”
“The only emotion I wish to convey is gratitude. Thank you, Elders, for your consideration.” Although the Vulcan’s words were neutral and polite, his tone clearly spoke otherwise. “Live long and prosper.”
James and Leonard immediately skittered off when they heard Spock leaving the council. Trying his best to feign innocence, the blond asked, “So how’d it go with the council?”
From beside him, Leonard shook his head and rolled his eyes.
Spock raised a brow. “It went well. If you’ll excuse me, I need a moment to gather my belongings and then I’ll be ready to depart.”
The blond nodded. “Take all the time you need.”
--
After Spock packed, the three of them were getting ready to leave the tribe when an older Vulcan Leonard recognized as ‘Sarek’ approached them with his horse. “I trust that you’ve packed enough provision for three, Spock.”
The Vulcan raised his head. “Father.”
There was a long pause between them.
Sarek spared a glance over to James and Leonard. “So you really are going to leave with these outsiders.”
“That is correct. I’m afraid I feel the need to see the world beyond our tribe as unwise as it may be.”
“What is necessary is never unwise.” When Spock hesitated, his father continued, “You will always be a child of two worlds. I am grateful for this, and for you.”
Spock lowered his head. “I continue to feel anger for the one who took mother’s life - an anger I cannot control.”
Gently, the older Vulcan spoke, “I believe…that she would say, ‘Do not try to.’ You asked me once why I married your mother. I married her because I loved her. And I am very sorry to have lost her.”
“As am I,” Spock agreed quietly. “By going with Mr. James and Doctor McCoy, I hope to see more of the world that mother came from. I want to understand why her life was taken. And I would like to understand and change the beliefs and values that cause these outsiders to turn on their own kind. I wish to be part of the remedy of these problems, father.”
Sarek nodded thoughtfully. “You know, you were named after one of Vulcan’s early society builders. I understand what these young men are setting out to do, and I think that it is a very worthy cause to pursue. It is also one that very few would have the courage to face. Seeing as their cause resonates with you, I will not hinder you, Spock. Take this horse, she was a gift from your mother, and know that whatever you choose to be, you will have proud parents.”
Accepting the reins, the younger Vulcan dipped his head gratefully. “Thank you.”
Then turning to James and Leonard, Sarek held his hand up, forming their customary gesture. “Mr. James, Doctor McCoy, thank you for your visitation. We found your presence most pleasant. I wish you the best of luck on your journey. Live long as prosper.”
The three of them returned the gesture and set off.
They rode in silence for a couple hours before James finally broke the silence. “So, Mr. Spock, is Spock your first or last name? Or do you guys not have those in your tribe?”
The Vulcan raised a brow. “I do have a full name if that’s what you’re inquiring. However, I don’t believe you would be able to pronounce it.”
“Oh?” Blue eyes gleamed at the challenge. “It can’t be that bad. Just try me.”
“Very well. It’s S'chn T'gai Spock.”
There was a long pause.
James exchanged incredulous glances with Leonard for a moment before clearing his throat. “Well then, I’m not even going to try to repeat that. I guess Mr. Spock works just as well, right, Leonard?”
“Don’t drag me into this. I was just going to call him Spock anyways.”
“I believe this is a situation in which I am obligated to say ‘I told you so.’”
The doctor burst into laughter while the blond sulked.
They rode in silence for another hour or so before James started again. “So…what’s pon farr like?”
Leonard pinched the bridge of his nose and sighed. “Unbelievable.”
--
They stopped at the first city they passed to get Spock a proper suit. Getting off their horses, Leonard stretched out his back and groaned uncomfortably. “I’m way too old to be travelling like this. Who the hell decided that horses would make good modes of transportation anyways?”
“You’re such an old grump sometimes.” James laughed. “Tell you what, Leonard. We’ll stay the night here for your poor back’s sake. I’ll go with Spock to find him something comfortable and not so eye-catching to wear. Do you want to come with?”
The doctor shook his head. “I need to go find a telephone to give Jo and Christine a call. I’ll find a place for us to stay tonight too because I refuse to sleep in the stables. You might be used to it, but I’m definitely too old to be doing shit like that. Try to stay out of trouble, you hooligans - especially you, James.”
The blond grinned innocently. “I don’t know what you’re talking about, Leonard.”
Leonard rolled his eyes. “Whatever. I’ll meet you two back here when I’m finished.”
Making their way towards the streets, James patted him on the back. “Sounds good. You stay out of trouble as well, doc. Don’t go around picking up potential outlaws now.”
“Oh no, meeting one potential outlaw was more than enough for me. And by the way, I didn’t pick you up. You came barging in and hurled a woman in labour into my arms.”
As they parted ways, the blond laughed. “Those were good times, doc. I’ll see you later. Come on, Spock, let’s see if we can get you a suit. I’ll even tell you about how I met Leonard on the way.”
Waving the two off, Leonard snorted and walked off.
--
Later, after they met up and made their way to the inn, in the confines of their room, James looked around, curious about how there were three beds instead of two. Leonard had found it strange as well, being too used to sharing a bed with the blond than he wanted to admit. But for Spock’s comfort sake, the doctor decided that having individual beds would be better.
The blond shrugged off the number of beds easily enough and asked the brunet conversationally, “So how’s Joanna? And the guys at the clinic?”
“Joanna’s doing just fine. The guys are the same as always. They all asked after you.”
Blue eyes lit up at being mentioned in the conversation. “Oh, did they really? And what’d you tell them? Did you tell them about how gallant I was during that hunt with the Vulcans? Or how amazing I was during my three day debate with Spock?”
Leonard shrugged nonchalantly. “I told them that you were being as obnoxious as ever and nearly got gutted by a deer of all things. And then you spent three days getting your ass verbally kicked by a Vulcan.”
James pouted. “Well, that’s not very nice of you, Leonard.”
Ignoring the blond, he turned to Spock. “I told them about you too, Mr. Spock. They’re very curious about you. Maybe you’ll get to meet them if you stick around with us long enough.” Then he added, “Nice suit, by the way. It suits you pretty well.”
Spock replied wordlessly with a raised eyebrow.
Figuring that he wasn’t going to get much more of a reaction from the Vulcan, Leonard continued, “Apparently there’s a doctor in New Orleans who’s requesting my presence. There’s been a mild breakout over there and they need all the help they can get before it gets any worse.”
Without any hesitation, James smiled. “I guess we’re heading to New Orleans next then.”
Pouring himself and the blond a glass of bourbon that he had bought, Leonard blinked. “That was a lot easier than I expected.”
The blond shrugged. “I’m not going to risk making you hate me because I held you back from your life’s calling for no good reason. Saving people’s what you do. It’s what makes you so damn amazing, doc.”
“Are you going to go on about that again? I’ve told you time and time again: it’s my job.” Grabbing a third glass, the doctor asked the Vulcan, “Do you drink, Mr. Spock?”
“On occasion,” the man answered vaguely.
Leonard stared blankly at the taller man. “…and will this particular occasion be one of which you partake in drinking with us? It was a yes or no question, dammit.”
Spock shook his head. “I believe I will decline your invitation this time. I must say though, Doctor McCoy, I am very surprised that you’re still willing to drink after the…repercussions last time.”
Hazel eyes widened. “Dammit, James, out of all things you could’ve told him, why that!?”
James grinned and took a sip from his glass. “What can I say? We’re a team now. I had to break the ice somehow. It worked, didn’t it?”
Leonard could’ve sworn that the Vulcan looked almost amused.
Back to Chapter 2
Onwards to Chapter 4