trekreversebang entrance "In My Memory"
Title: In my Memory
Artist: yuanhua
Raiting Art: PG
Art Thumbnail:
Author:
ariadnechan
Characters: NuKirk, NuSpock, McCoy, KirkPrime, and Spockprime.
Pairing: Kirk/Spock preslash; Kirk Prime/Spock prime established; some Spock/KirkPrime.
Rating fic: PG- to R.
Tropes: Drama, amnesia, au counterparts, mind meld, Tarsus IV references, angst.
Warnings: Mild swearing, Mayor Character almost death, Non graphic references to imprisonment and torture, Non graphic sex and boys love.
Word count: 22.186
Spoilers: The new movie and some general knowledge of Tos, but really you can live with only the some episodes like “The Conscience of the King”; and the three first movies of Tos era.
Disclaimer: I don't own any of these characters. They are owned by Paramount and I cry at night because they aren’t mine.
Summary: In a mission where everything went wrong. Who is the Person to come back to the Enterprise in James Tiberius Kirk skin?
Beta: I worship my friend and beta for thisrainbowstrlght, The mistakes that survive are all mine.
Link to Art : Two pieces of Art here
Link to Fic: Part I / Part II / Part III.
The general aspects of James Tiberius Kirk’s life were known. His Father died on the Kelvin in Nero’s first attack. He was a hero, who saved Earth, the Federation, and conquered Nero to save all the people of Vulcan he could- with his Vulcan First Officer, Spock. He was the first Captain in history to have a ship at the age of 25.
But very few people knew the real truth behind it all: That Old Spock came from an alternate reality where the Romulus star was blown up, and he came with a nemesis that changed all of history in a matter of minutes.
James Kirk’s was the fairy tale that gone wrong: His father died. Her mother rejects the new born who was left with random stepfathers, while she in complete denial was up there saving colonies and children he will never know. The stepfather of this fairy tale was bad and despised him. He was abused, so he was a rebel. And it all comes to an end while the red car combusting goes in flame and glory and he eats the dust. He always must pay the price, so as a punishment they send him with some aunt to a colony in Tarsus IV.
Jim really like his punishment, his aunt was really good to him, but everybody knows what happened there. Except that Jim was only thirteen and saw people die in front of his eyes; because they weren’t selected to live. They don’t know that Jim had to watch the repulsive show and be a strong character to Kodos, so he could live another day.
And he did it, stopping his crying at night while his tears falls until his eyes run dried.
When he runs away from Kodos with others, he use everything he had and survived; try to save some people in his way and survived some more. But he will never forget his aunt and the people who die, like the little girl who died in his arm from starvation after two days trying to save her. So he cries out for all of them even if no tear will ever come from his eyes, and he continues with their death in his backpack and the survival before his footsteps. They finally rescue them at last or the faint shadows of the people who survived.
Jim always wonders what they would say if they know that he never forgot a face; and that they haunted his dreams, even now.
After Tarsus, his mother sends him to a boarding school where he was the best- the best no one wanted. He never receives even a call from his mom. He decides the easiest way to survives was to forget the family he never had, drown the faces and the screams in alcohol- along with women and bar fights. He wanders in the streets fighting some assholes, saving whatever girl and bedding her- because he doesn’t really care about himself at all. He fights for a drink and to be the only pretty face in a Friday night.
Everything remains the same until that guy comes; and does the impossible. He challenged him, to do better- and Jim takes the chance because inside he was bored, and tired of being only the pretty guy in the bar.
He’s really never tried anything before, except survival. And that was a change he likes. He even finds a friend, a conscience, and a drinking buddy.
The academy also provides him with a lot of pretty girls and boys to tease and lay with.
But his life was a continuing void; with a tiresome dream about the hell in Tarsus, that never left him at nights- until he sees Him.
He is supposed to be upset. But he can’t be, not when he is in front of real beauty that’s out of this world- but off course, like the angels, the better things are not from earth.
His skin fairly tinted pale green; with his hair like silk, which actually shines. His elegant movements; and those eyes, he could drown in eyes like that. Those totally cute and beautiful ears; and those eyebrows of doom. He was lost. But like always, everything about Jim was messed up.
The beautiful guy is his accuser- he is the obnoxious Captain who maroons him, who tries to strangling him, even if that part was really hot and leaves him panting; he was taken, Yep, by the xenolinguistics girl at the bar, his academy’s favorite teasing project Uhura.
Life was not fair.
Everything in his life is going downhill, until he founds the old guy. Yes, there is someone in this entire universe who believes in him- someone who even cares for him; except the guy he actually cares for isn’t him, exactly. In this other time line, Spock and Jim have something more profound than a friendship. Jim could almost sense the love there, something epic- but that is not for him. Everything of that was for the other Kirk; the one who had a father.
Jim realizes from that meld that all his life and epic everything was taken away by Nero.
But the Old Spock believes in him so greatly; that he promises him to save the Federation, and not to crush the space-continuum. To let himself almost die by his younger beautiful hands. When they are in the Romulan ship, it is as if his life suddenly fit, he hear the click; of the right of it. That Spock is meant to be by his side, and he will accomplish much to have him there- have all the epic shit he felt in that meld with the Old Spock, and more.
That night after Nero is defeated, Jim can sleep at last- he can be better, he can do better.
So Captain Kirk- that sounds good- is doing everything he can, using his brain and heart to make the Enterprise the best, and most respectable lady in space.
He is doing it all right. Okay he hates the paperwork; but it is part of this Captain business.
……..
Patrolling the Neutral Zone is not much fun, but- you never know.
He’s behaving with all the pretty girls and boys of the crew. He has a bad reputation, no one believes he is reformed, but he is. And for him, that is the important part, someday his “Captain” profile will surpass his “Academy Rebel” one.
He loves to walk through the white corridors, and try to learn every name of his crew; so he can salute them by name while he is passing by. He is doing one of his rounds before sleep, when around a corner a crying Uhura crashes into him. He takes her to her feet and asks her for her wellbeing, but she runs from him, without a word. Jim wonders if it is a good idea follows her, or something- but he isn't in a good relationship with his communications officer to intrude like that, so he decides to talk to Chapel, he walks to Sickbay and he informs her that Uhura looks stricken and if she can help her without telling her anything about him.
He sits in Bones office for some chat. But his friend is more occupied with paper work than with him so he asks him for a “date” to breakfast in the mess hall in the morning as always; and after his friends nod, he goes to his quarters for the night.
His sleep is restless, and there is something unfathomable in these dreams- so deep, but he can remember nothing in the morning, as always. So he thought, maybe his phantom were following him again, and thinks nothing of it.
He finds Spock in the mess, and he brings his tray to be at his side. Jim decides it is really good to talk with Spock without anything behind it; they finally made peace and reach a place where they could build a team and maybe a friendship.
“So, how are you today Mr. Spock?”
“I'm well, Captain”
“Who it goes the Gama shift? I'm sure you already ask, we receive our orders from Star Fleet yet?”
“Affirmative, and not yet, Captain.”
Jim rolls his eyes. “We are monosyllabic today?”
“That was not my Intention, Captain; but the Gama shift had no problem in their patrolling, no event to report. And our new orders didn't arrive yet.”
“How goes the experiments in your department?”
“There we have some new results in the tests we take in the Nova of Hylarion 4. We have a lot of data to classify, but my team is really enthusiastic about it so the work has being efficient”
“ I was in a meeting with the History and sociological department yesterday, they are doing great with his research of the Aralian culture. I think Spock you can give them a round there their code of law was remarkable”
“I was unaware of your fond with history and law, Captain. We can talk about it some time; I will ask for a report and ‘give them a round’ as you say.”
Jim can take the smirk of his face, who knows- the Old guy, said that they could be good friends, some day. But Jim is trying to not look at Spock's hands or get lost those brown eyes despite how mesmerizing they are.
Uhura enter in the mess her eyes were so cold that is really something not to feel intimidated by her demeanor. He approaches them and Jim feels a shiver form her gaze.
“Captain, we finally receive the message from the admiralty. You and the First Officer are called to, I pass the call to the meeting room 4 in this level.”
“Thanks, Lieutenant, for taking the trouble to deliver the message personally and not by the com.”
“Captain, like I must to come to the mess either way I decides to give you the message directly.”
After that Uhura gives Spock a killing glare, and turn to pick her tray. Jim goes to take it in a meeting room with Spock.
They must part to Sigma Omega V for a diplomatic mission. They need to They need to gather as many resources as possible for the Federation, and form alliances to protect themselves from the Klingons and Romulans. So this mission is really important given that Sigma Omega V was really close to the neutral zone with the Romulan Empire.
Admiral Nogura. Doesn't believe in Jim, that's for certain; but he is Captain of the Enterprise and he will do his best- even to the surprise of the Admiral.
Jim calls Scotty, Uhura and McCoy to join the meeting with Spock. They sat around the table and Jim looks them seriously.
“We have our first diplomatic mission in our hands; and I want to make sure we do this thing right.”
“So Uhura, please make me a report about the most important issues of Omegan V people, along with their language and customs. McCoy, I want a report about their biology; and the ecology of the planet. Spock I want a report from your department in every essential thing about this planet; especially about the minerals and their people. We will meet tomorrow with the Sociologist Borges and the Historian Vargas and come up with an approach for this mission on Omega V in relation to each of your departments.”
“Any questions?”
McCoy looks worry and says, “Jim, we have very little information about their physiology.”
“I know Bones, but we must do what we can with the information we have. I want the best report you can give me with the better interpretation of what we’ve got.”
Lt. Vargas clears his throat, then says, “How many time we have until the reports must be due?”
“All the information is already disclosed, so I want your reports two days from now for the end of the Beta shift, but I will glad if I can ask you all for a first approach tonight.”
“Any other questions?”
Silence.
”Well in that case you are dismissed.“
That day after his shift ends, he goes to his quarters to read the preliminary reports almost every department send to him, after tomorrow briefing.
The Omegans where sentient with superior intelligent beings who evolved from the Praying Mantis (the closer species in earth) they have little humanoid traces. Every animal life of their planet evolved of different kinds of insects. They are in the first steps of space technology development; non warp capability and they recently finished a war of 30 years against a faction for world domination.
The Green Backs Mantis won against The Red Backs Mantis. Apparently these people have telepathic abilities not yet developed, but there are gifted ones who generally are the priests, and have a lot of power in their society.
They will meet the chancellor and the chief priest in the house of governs in two days.
As for the resources of the planet - they have a lot of dilithium deposits, and they are not too far away from the Romulan border.
The communications department says they have calibrated the universal translator with the main languages and some variation of it. The Omegans who called themselves S’craik-thi, are intelligent people. They have a short temper, and are like Earthlings of the 20th century in a bare approach.
Jim then reads the Biology report; which states very little - like McCoy warned about - but does say that Mantis physiology appears to offer a lot of strength, and that they are green-blooded. Apparently they are private people.
…….
Then his door opens, and Jim finds Spock in his doorway.
“Please enter, Mr. Spock”
“Captain, may I speak with you?”
“Of course Spock - sit. The talk is free, and you can have a cup of tea with it,” Jim says with a bright smile.
“I fail to understand why someone could charge for speaking words.” Spock raises an eyebrow almost to the ceiling.
“Don't worry Spock, it's a manner of speech.” Jim hands him a cup of Vulcan spiced tea.
“Well - what do you want to tell me, Spock?
“Captain, I want to talk to you about a private matter. if I may?”
“Oh, that will be great, I'm not the Captain then, I'm Jim!”
Spock raises his eyebrow higher and after a consideration.
“Jim, sir… I am in lack of human skills about human courtship, the development, and the end of it”
“So, you want my opinion about your romantic relationship with Lt.Uhura?
“I wish to know how humans typically end their courtships?”
“Did Uhura end it with you? Really?”
“No Cap… Jim, you are mistaken; I have decided to end the relationship Lt. Uhura thinks she has with me.”
“What? But I saw you kiss her at 'the Narada incident' - and I know you two generally are more professional, but I thought you were more like a couple in private and, you that spent a lot of time out of shift with her, I…”
“Well, I consider Lt. Uhura a close personal friend. I was instructing her on various pieces of Vulcan music, and especially in techniques involving the Vulcan Lyre. She has an appreciable aptitude in singing.”
As Jim thinks through what Spock is saying, he suddenly remembers the previous night in the corridor.
“Spock, what happened?”
“Yesterday night, as I was praising the improvements in her technique, she put her arms around me like the time of my emotional breakdown. She attempted to press her lips to mine. So I protested.”
“She was upset, and she told me she was waiting for me to adapt to our relationship. She thought we had reached a comfortable place, where we could evolve into the next stage.”
“So, I clarified to her that we were never in any stage. That I valued her friendship and her help during my time of emotional need, I was not pursuing a romantic liaison with her.Then the lieutenant proceeded to assault my person, and then retreated from my quarters.”
Jim couldn't believe what Spock is saying. Poor Uhura - this was the misunderstanding of the century.
“Jim, I wonder if you can explain me what is wrong and what I must do to ask for forgiveness, I cannot imagine why I must apologize, but apparently it is the correct thing to do. Until now I have tried to express my apologies, but the only result of this has been another punch, or indifference. The lieutenant's grievances have already reached some others females of the crew, like Miss Chapel, who sends the most disconcerting feelings in my direction.”
Jim really didn't know whether to laugh, or pity the poor guy.
“Spock you are in trouble, everybody on this ship thought you two were a couple!
They're going to see you as the bad guy, who was stringing her along for your entertainment!”
“Jim, I must assure you that I have not been entertained during this situation.”
“I know Spock, I know. I think the best you can do for now is to let the times pass for her, and then talk to her. She will need to be angry for some time to settle this new information and her new state, and then you can talk to her.”
“Jim, how many hours she will need to settle before I can apologize to her, and have a logical conversation with her? I appreciate the lieutenant and her companionship, and she has interesting points of view -”
“Spock, Spock - she's going to need some time, really. It just depends on the person. So when she's ready to talk, she'll come to you. That's the best advice I have!”
Spock raises both of his eyebrows, and then makes a movement to leave.
“Spock, would you like to stay and talk some more with another cup of tea?”
“That it would be agreeable, Jim.”
………..
The next morning all is perfect. Jim and Scotty have the coordinates; and the landing party will consist of Spock, Lt. Uhura, Bones, a historian named Lt. Vargas, three security personal, and Jim.
Spock beams down with the security team, first; and doesn't report any trouble. So the second group with Lt. Vargas, Uhura, Bones and Jim step onto the transporter, and Jim orders Scotty to takes command and to beam the landing party down.
Jim can concede with Bones that make yourself into molecules in the transportation make you a little ticklish, but he has not fear about reintegrate again. Jim sees himself on the surface with his personal surround him, but he disappears almost immediately again into the dark.
Bones.
McCoy always knew that damn transporter would be the death of them - being dissolved into a thousand particles was just not natural. And with a pain in his heart, he knows he is right.
Jim was at his side - smiling one minute - and then he isn't there at all.
Uhura says that he appeared on the surface and then he disappeared. Bones is not certain. Spock calls the Enterprise immediately, but Scotty doesn't have him. Jim is beamed down to the surface successfully and then - nothing.
The Red Backs Mantis claim not to have any information, and Spock seems distrustful.
Leonard was really worried, and he really doesn't know what to do, so he tries to see what Spock have.
“Spock, there must be something we could track or find out, right?”
“At the moment there is not, The Prime Minister is searching with his military net, and i will go to the Enterprise to try to seek the Captain with the ship’s scans.”
“You hobgoblin, you really can’t trust an insect can you? They can only make clickity-clicks with their mouths, for Christ’s sake. They are into something and it is not good.”
“Doctor we must to stay calm. And we need to have some level of trust, if we want their cooperation in the search of the Captain.”
“You can trust all you want, but we can be sure this guy over there doesn’t kidnap Jim in order to get a better agreement in the treaty with us”
“Doctor, The Prime Minister Sk’shr seems truly concern as we do, maybe not for the Captain wellbeing but for his people- Since they know all about ‘The Nero Incident’ and their proximity with the Romulan Empire. Plotting something against the Captain will be really unwise for them; If he wants the alliance with the Federation - losing this opportunity considering how much they lost already in their war, it could be Illogical.”
“Why I even take the bother to talking to machine? If you need me I will be with the others, Spock, with the people who actually could be worry.”
Spock nods to him and ask for Scotty to beam him up.
……
The Green Backs Mantis state that there are a small faction of rebels, who have some control over the planet - but the Red Back don’t believe they are responsible for Kirk’s disappearance. But they send out intelligence and military to investigate, with the hopes that the misunderstanding will be settled very soon.
McCoy doubts the Red Backs results. However, Spock requests that they stay with the Red Backs while he returns to the Enterprise, in order to aid a search for Jim. They do a Biology scan on the planet, with the hopes that since the Mantis are not human, the search could prove fruitful.
McCoy, Uhura and the security officers are taken to some rooms assigned to them for their visit; and they are told they will be informed of any possible clue or result.
McCoy is really restless. He sits, then walks, and then sits again. Being helpless and having Jim disappear or in danger is no news for him; but either way he hated being helpless, and just waiting if he could patch up the boy if they could save him.
He shares a concerned look with Uhura, while she communicates with the ship on any news that can help with the search.
Time passes really slowly. Waiting and knowing that Jim could be hurt doesn't help to make the time go faster. Neither does Spock calling to say there is nothing in the scans, so far.
Finally the unexpected happens again. One of the insect guys, Bones really doesn't know whom, because they all seems the same- is running as he opens the door, and tells them they must follow him quickly. Bones doesn't need more words as he run for it; with his med tricorder in one hand, and his heart in the other.
Jim is lying prone unconscious where they beamed out; completely nude and unconscious.
Bones rushes to Jim's side, and calls on the comm. to have them beamed up. Things don't look good - but fortunately the Red Backs did not move Jim when he reappeared. Bones scans him with a med tricorder, and sees the unbelievable: Jim’s mind is a void.
The med team is there, and McCoy can’t believe it - Spock looks to be feeling something for a moment, maybe something human like concern. But Spock follows the team up, as McCoy barks orders, and tries to stabilize his captain - his friend - Jim.”
…..
The med bay is a chaos. McCoy orders all the unauthorized personnel out; including the obtuse Mr. Spock, who doesn’t want to leave.
The scan in the med bay gives him the same information that he already knew. There is some internal damage but that is the easy part Jim needs a ventilator, as his body is not doing his thing well on his own. McCoy knows that he can maintain his body functioning, but he is in a really deep coma. Leonard doesn’t know if Jim can comeback from it, because the brain scan show no brain patterns like the boy have before this hell.
After he sees Spock loitering in the lobby of the med bay trying to obtain Jim status - for what feels like the hundredth time - Bones decides to take Spock back into his office.
“Spock, I did all I could. I really don’t know if the kid will come back, I know, he always comes back, but I’m not so sure this time. His brain patterns are a complete mess. No scan can give me his normal readings, even if he is unconscious he should have a pattern, for Christ’sake! But I’m only a country doctor, not a voodoo priest. So all I can do is maintaining him in the ventilator, monitor his vitals and wait.”
While Spock looks as stoic as always, Leonard knows that he is actually concerned. He nods while Bones is giving his prognosis and say.
“Doctor, I think I may be able to reach the Captain with a mind meld.”
“A what?”
“A mind meld- the joining of two minds. If I try this maybe I can ascertain if the Captain is still there, and help him to resurface. I must confess that I have never tried this with a human. But, I am uncertain of any other solutions - unless you have one, Doctor?”
“Wait right there, Spock! If you think I will give you permission to mess with my patient's mind, you are totally mistaken! We will wait; maybe he only needs time to heal with his own resources.”
“But if nothing happens, please reconsiders my offer.”
Spock gets up from the chair and moves to walk out; but then he stops and inclines his head to Leonard. “May I see him?”
“If you promise to behave and don't try any Vulcan mumbo jumbo, you must know.”
“A Vulcan Mind meld is nothing like the sort. It is a gift from our ancestor, a skill is you must.”
Spock and McCoy approach where Jim is filled with machines. He is on his side looking like he is only sleeping. Spock walks to him, and stays there for a long time.
Bones decides to go for a brandy. He needs one; because it is a sure thing he won’t sleep today. He sees Spock from through his office’s window; leaning toward Jim’s sleeping form, and touching his hand very quickly- and then jerks it off. But he dismisses any thought about it.
Spock.
This must be his fault. He could've researched more about their political affairs, so he could have ascertained that his Captain would be in danger. He must foresee all possible outcomes, and this time he didn't.
Now no one knows if the Captain will ever wake up. He must do something; he knows he could at least see if Jim is in the body connected to machines.
Of course, the good Doctor doesn't want to see with logic the problem at hand. The Vulcan mind meld is a medical tool that modern medical technology cannot compete with - and maybe it is the only way Spock can see Jim.
He seems like he is sleeping, and he seems so aesthetically pleasing in that way, his features calm and relaxed. Spock decides to takes a little risk, so he let’s his finger wonder in the hand and wrist peering from under the white blanket, His hand was a little more pinkish than his natural tanned, his writs are bruised with the evidence of hard restrains, and now with the needles where his flesh is joining to a machine; Spock brushes the back of Jim’s hand and stay a little in his fingers. Spock knows as he touches the soft skin, that there is someone there - But it is a really faint presence, and kind of strange, because there it is like a lightning bolt of electricity in that minimum instant of touch.
Spock had accidentally touched the Captain in several previous occasions; yet this is not the same impression. It is some different, and yet closer somehow. Spock decides to try to meditate about it for deeper analyzation.
The only fact that he is able to take out of that small touch, is that the Captain’s body is occupied by someone, whom has certain affinity with his own mind, like Kirk has; so that someone using logic, must be the Captain.
Spock is really busy the next two days, so he cannot see for himself if the Captain has made some progress. He must put up with limits for the negotiations with the S’craik-thi. In order to have negotiations at all, the actual S’craik-thi govern must resolve the issues between them and the rebel faction, and arrive at some kind of peace; before the Federation will agree to a new negotiation table.
Spock decides to put together an investigative group, in order to determine what happened to the Captain. The rebels involved will be delivered to the Enterprise soon, in order to take them into custody and interrogation; for the felony committed against the Captain of a starship, his position at the moment as an ambassador and the Federation as a whole.
As an olive branch for negotiations, will be given directly to the Federation for processing; as an act of good faith. In the rules of the planet, the culprits could be sentenced to death.
Spock really doesn't want to come back or stay in orbit of that planet anymore, he would prefer takes the Captain to New Vulcan for a treatment, but the orders where clear: The Federation wants this treaty and this situation resolved in two weeks.
Admiral Komack is really firm in his thesis that two weeks were a generous lapse of time for them to resolve it. The ‘Prime Directive’, as the good Doctor could say in his colorful manner, ‘could go to hell’ or something in the lines. The Enterprise must then mediate negotiations between both factions of the S’craik-thi, and get them to sign a treaty quickly. According to Komack, two weeks are also sufficient for the Captain to recover. If he doesn’t, however, Spock would be the captain; and they will send a human to replace Spock as first officer, within the month.
Spock is against a wall and time. He must find out what happened to James Tiberius Kirk down on the planet, and how to bring him back to life again. The problem is that he needs the Captain right there to find a ‘creative solution’, in such short notice - but he is alone. He tries to call sickbay in any available moment, waiting for an answer than he is stable - but Jim is still in a coma.
………….
It takes Spock three days to get himself to the Medbay in person. The Doctor is sipping his Saurean Brandy in a small glass. “Damn you hobgoblin, knock first or something… You must be enlisted as a Ninja and not as a scientist officer - you walk like a cat, do you know that?”
“Doctor, I fail to understand how I am like a ancient Asian spy from the dark ages of Japan, or like a Terran feline. However, I came tonight, to ascertain the condition of the Captain, and to see him, if possible.“
“Possible, yes - practical, no. He isn’t there Spock! His status, it is the same as three days ago, I really wonder if this is the end of the kid”.
“I trust he will comeback at some point Doctor. Maybe you must reconsider my petition of a mind meld with him. I must assure you that it could be a real help, and that it can bring the Captain to the surface if he is in there.”
Spock is exasperated. He tries to not to show it, but really McCoy is so illogical and stubborn, Spock cannot understand how this man could be such an important friend in the life of Jim Kirk, but he is not there for a discussion.
“Doctor, Admiral Komack, will remove the Captain from his post in two weeks, if he doesn’t show a sign of recovery. We have not recovered any information of what happened to him yet, or how to reverse Jim’s coma. So please Doctor, reconsider my option, and keep your emotional outburst for yourself. Is that clear?”
“Green blooded bastard! Do you think I’m not worried, and that i didn’t try all I could already! Okay, you can see him now - and I will read all I can about this magic trick of yours. I will tell you my answer in two days; it is that enough for you, sir?”
“Yes indeed, Doctor. If you will excuse me, I will see the Captain now.”
Spock does not like the Doctor remarks, he calm his disturb down, while he walks towards his Captain’s bed. But the time he arrives there, he seems to think a little better, and he is calmer than before. Maybe being so close of this force of nature, called James Kirk, has influence him more than he could recognize.
He knows the influence this man cause in others. Sometimes the crew would be tired or in a bad mood; one smile from him, and everybody would seems to relax, and have more energy, and more hope. Spock is not affected by him. But he recognizes the strong force of this man. Humans were very strange creatures.
Jim looks tranquil in his sleep. Spock decides to try again to sense the mind of the Captain, with a little more depth. He touches Jim’s face, only resting his fingers in his meld points for a while, without initiates a full meld. There is again the presence - more strong than the last time, but more restless somehow, too. It is really far away from the surface, yet it is foreign and close.
Spock is disconcerted by this. But maybe it has to do with the state of the Captain after a severe trauma that they don’t know anything about. He does not know if he could make the mind of the Captain; resurface completely even after a meld. Spock decides that in order to make it better, he will engage in deeper and larger amounts of meditation; at every possible free moment he has.
………………….
Two days later, two prisoners are beamed up to the Enterprise, Spock decides to lead the interrogations himself.
When he enters the brig he senses immediately the presence of a strong telepathic mind in one of the S’craik-thi.
“Explain, the entire situation that involves the Captain of this vessel being kidnapped and why is he in comatose state?”
None of them will talk. Spock is annoyed at this point, so he decides to play with the truth.
“If neither of you will talk, there will be consequences. You are now under Federations laws. While there is no death penalty for your actions, you will face a trial, and must accept its rulings. Those punishments might become more severe if we cannot save the Captain. If you want to save yourselves, you must cooperate.”
“If you do not, we have more effective methods of knowing the truth. There are ways to enter the mind, without your consent. My advice is not to take this issue too far, and to reveal your information - as I am not sure of my accuracy, due to my young age and inexperience, I may leave you… incapacitated? But it would be preventable, if you gave the information that we are requesting.”
The older S’craik-thi, who has psychic abilities, advises the other without speaking for a while. Then decides to meld with Spock either anyway. Spock accepts with aplomb the challenge. He closes his eyes and strengthens his shields. Calm and collected, he raises his hand and puts them at the psi points of the alien, and recites:
“My mind to your mind, my thoughts to your thoughts…”
Spock enters an experienced mind with order, but with some remorse and failed hopes. Spock asks for the fate of the Captain, and an explanation about what happened to him.
The idea was to put ideas in Jim's mind, in order for it to work in the favor of the rebels; and to give them what they want, without a fight. The Captain of the Federation could bring order; the order they want for their planet.
But something goes terribly wrong, and the Captains mind becomes a void. The elder try to save him, but it is too late, all is erased, there is only a faint light remaining in the Captain's mind impossible for him to reach, so they decides to return the body.
The elder feels real remorse and guilt. But this isn't enough, not for Jim, not for the Federation and not for Spock. The anger grows in his gut. He wants this emotion to fade away he wants to kill the light of this person and obliterated his mind; as he did with the Captain’s. The Elder is ready to accept his punishment; but Spock will not do this, Jim will never agree with something like this. There are regulations, there are laws, and they will judge. Trying to ease his fury, he leaves the conscience of the Elder S’craik-thi, and gets out of the brig; with the disconcert look of the old creature.
Spock goes to his quarters and he felts almost sick. He can't understand why he is so angry, and why he is so lost in this feeling of ultimate sorrow. He refreshes his face. Then he sees that he must try to meditate a period of time, in order to collect himself. To understand why he is so lost in emotions, and to find out the reason of this feelings and purge them.
He regains some calm. But his meditation is fruitless; there is only a thought in his mind: He must save Jim. It is so overwhelming, like the lost of his control, and this alien feeling, whom he can't name.
He must save him. Spock goes to the intercom, and asks for sickbay.
“McCoy, here.”
“How is the Captain?”
“Spock you know damn well he is in the same state.”
“Very well Doctor, I will see you in your office immediately, and I want to know how your research is going.”
“Hey, Spock…”
But he cuts the communication before he can hear the rest. Spock walks to the turbolift in few long steps and calls for the deck of Sick bay. He stops at the door, trying to mask his face to his normal one; and then enters determined to the Doctor office.
“The attack of the Captain was telepathic. They erased his conscience and his memories, Doctor”
McCoy fell in his seat, with an incredulous eyebrow up. “Spock, you can't erase the conscience. Maybe the memories, but if they erase him, he'll be dead”
“They say it is an accident. The purpose is to use the Captain for their goals, but their inexperience with a human mind is far beyond their comprehension and abilities.”
“You are telling me they broke him, and they are sorry!” McCoy puts a hand to his face. Normally he would be yelling some illogical, colorful metaphor; but for now he was only holding his face. He lifts his chin, and gives Spock a wondering gaze.
“Spock, I did some research; and I know you could help him if you were a healer. But you are not, and we can't…”
His phrase hangs in the air, for a moment and he come back to hold his hands under his chin, again.
“We must” Spock says seriously.
“Doctor we must know, if he is there, and if we can save him, We can call a healer or going to New Vulcan for one, on a later date.”
McCoy lifts a finger at him. “Then we must try”. He doesn't look at Spock's face, after a moment he stares intensely at Spock, “We must save him, Spock”.
So Spock walks to the door, and to Jim's bedside. There he gently presses his fingertips to the meld points, and starts to whisper, “My mind to your mind…”
To be continued in Part II
Artist: yuanhua
Raiting Art: PG
Art Thumbnail:
Author:
ariadnechan
Characters: NuKirk, NuSpock, McCoy, KirkPrime, and Spockprime.
Pairing: Kirk/Spock preslash; Kirk Prime/Spock prime established; some Spock/KirkPrime.
Rating fic: PG- to R.
Tropes: Drama, amnesia, au counterparts, mind meld, Tarsus IV references, angst.
Warnings: Mild swearing, Mayor Character almost death, Non graphic references to imprisonment and torture, Non graphic sex and boys love.
Word count: 22.186
Spoilers: The new movie and some general knowledge of Tos, but really you can live with only the some episodes like “The Conscience of the King”; and the three first movies of Tos era.
Disclaimer: I don't own any of these characters. They are owned by Paramount and I cry at night because they aren’t mine.
Summary: In a mission where everything went wrong. Who is the Person to come back to the Enterprise in James Tiberius Kirk skin?
Beta: I worship my friend and beta for thisrainbowstrlght, The mistakes that survive are all mine.
Link to Art : Two pieces of Art here
Link to Fic: Part I / Part II / Part III.
The general aspects of James Tiberius Kirk’s life were known. His Father died on the Kelvin in Nero’s first attack. He was a hero, who saved Earth, the Federation, and conquered Nero to save all the people of Vulcan he could- with his Vulcan First Officer, Spock. He was the first Captain in history to have a ship at the age of 25.
But very few people knew the real truth behind it all: That Old Spock came from an alternate reality where the Romulus star was blown up, and he came with a nemesis that changed all of history in a matter of minutes.
James Kirk’s was the fairy tale that gone wrong: His father died. Her mother rejects the new born who was left with random stepfathers, while she in complete denial was up there saving colonies and children he will never know. The stepfather of this fairy tale was bad and despised him. He was abused, so he was a rebel. And it all comes to an end while the red car combusting goes in flame and glory and he eats the dust. He always must pay the price, so as a punishment they send him with some aunt to a colony in Tarsus IV.
Jim really like his punishment, his aunt was really good to him, but everybody knows what happened there. Except that Jim was only thirteen and saw people die in front of his eyes; because they weren’t selected to live. They don’t know that Jim had to watch the repulsive show and be a strong character to Kodos, so he could live another day.
And he did it, stopping his crying at night while his tears falls until his eyes run dried.
When he runs away from Kodos with others, he use everything he had and survived; try to save some people in his way and survived some more. But he will never forget his aunt and the people who die, like the little girl who died in his arm from starvation after two days trying to save her. So he cries out for all of them even if no tear will ever come from his eyes, and he continues with their death in his backpack and the survival before his footsteps. They finally rescue them at last or the faint shadows of the people who survived.
Jim always wonders what they would say if they know that he never forgot a face; and that they haunted his dreams, even now.
After Tarsus, his mother sends him to a boarding school where he was the best- the best no one wanted. He never receives even a call from his mom. He decides the easiest way to survives was to forget the family he never had, drown the faces and the screams in alcohol- along with women and bar fights. He wanders in the streets fighting some assholes, saving whatever girl and bedding her- because he doesn’t really care about himself at all. He fights for a drink and to be the only pretty face in a Friday night.
Everything remains the same until that guy comes; and does the impossible. He challenged him, to do better- and Jim takes the chance because inside he was bored, and tired of being only the pretty guy in the bar.
He’s really never tried anything before, except survival. And that was a change he likes. He even finds a friend, a conscience, and a drinking buddy.
The academy also provides him with a lot of pretty girls and boys to tease and lay with.
But his life was a continuing void; with a tiresome dream about the hell in Tarsus, that never left him at nights- until he sees Him.
He is supposed to be upset. But he can’t be, not when he is in front of real beauty that’s out of this world- but off course, like the angels, the better things are not from earth.
His skin fairly tinted pale green; with his hair like silk, which actually shines. His elegant movements; and those eyes, he could drown in eyes like that. Those totally cute and beautiful ears; and those eyebrows of doom. He was lost. But like always, everything about Jim was messed up.
The beautiful guy is his accuser- he is the obnoxious Captain who maroons him, who tries to strangling him, even if that part was really hot and leaves him panting; he was taken, Yep, by the xenolinguistics girl at the bar, his academy’s favorite teasing project Uhura.
Life was not fair.
Everything in his life is going downhill, until he founds the old guy. Yes, there is someone in this entire universe who believes in him- someone who even cares for him; except the guy he actually cares for isn’t him, exactly. In this other time line, Spock and Jim have something more profound than a friendship. Jim could almost sense the love there, something epic- but that is not for him. Everything of that was for the other Kirk; the one who had a father.
Jim realizes from that meld that all his life and epic everything was taken away by Nero.
But the Old Spock believes in him so greatly; that he promises him to save the Federation, and not to crush the space-continuum. To let himself almost die by his younger beautiful hands. When they are in the Romulan ship, it is as if his life suddenly fit, he hear the click; of the right of it. That Spock is meant to be by his side, and he will accomplish much to have him there- have all the epic shit he felt in that meld with the Old Spock, and more.
That night after Nero is defeated, Jim can sleep at last- he can be better, he can do better.
So Captain Kirk- that sounds good- is doing everything he can, using his brain and heart to make the Enterprise the best, and most respectable lady in space.
He is doing it all right. Okay he hates the paperwork; but it is part of this Captain business.
……..
Patrolling the Neutral Zone is not much fun, but- you never know.
He’s behaving with all the pretty girls and boys of the crew. He has a bad reputation, no one believes he is reformed, but he is. And for him, that is the important part, someday his “Captain” profile will surpass his “Academy Rebel” one.
He loves to walk through the white corridors, and try to learn every name of his crew; so he can salute them by name while he is passing by. He is doing one of his rounds before sleep, when around a corner a crying Uhura crashes into him. He takes her to her feet and asks her for her wellbeing, but she runs from him, without a word. Jim wonders if it is a good idea follows her, or something- but he isn't in a good relationship with his communications officer to intrude like that, so he decides to talk to Chapel, he walks to Sickbay and he informs her that Uhura looks stricken and if she can help her without telling her anything about him.
He sits in Bones office for some chat. But his friend is more occupied with paper work than with him so he asks him for a “date” to breakfast in the mess hall in the morning as always; and after his friends nod, he goes to his quarters for the night.
His sleep is restless, and there is something unfathomable in these dreams- so deep, but he can remember nothing in the morning, as always. So he thought, maybe his phantom were following him again, and thinks nothing of it.
He finds Spock in the mess, and he brings his tray to be at his side. Jim decides it is really good to talk with Spock without anything behind it; they finally made peace and reach a place where they could build a team and maybe a friendship.
“So, how are you today Mr. Spock?”
“I'm well, Captain”
“Who it goes the Gama shift? I'm sure you already ask, we receive our orders from Star Fleet yet?”
“Affirmative, and not yet, Captain.”
Jim rolls his eyes. “We are monosyllabic today?”
“That was not my Intention, Captain; but the Gama shift had no problem in their patrolling, no event to report. And our new orders didn't arrive yet.”
“How goes the experiments in your department?”
“There we have some new results in the tests we take in the Nova of Hylarion 4. We have a lot of data to classify, but my team is really enthusiastic about it so the work has being efficient”
“ I was in a meeting with the History and sociological department yesterday, they are doing great with his research of the Aralian culture. I think Spock you can give them a round there their code of law was remarkable”
“I was unaware of your fond with history and law, Captain. We can talk about it some time; I will ask for a report and ‘give them a round’ as you say.”
Jim can take the smirk of his face, who knows- the Old guy, said that they could be good friends, some day. But Jim is trying to not look at Spock's hands or get lost those brown eyes despite how mesmerizing they are.
Uhura enter in the mess her eyes were so cold that is really something not to feel intimidated by her demeanor. He approaches them and Jim feels a shiver form her gaze.
“Captain, we finally receive the message from the admiralty. You and the First Officer are called to, I pass the call to the meeting room 4 in this level.”
“Thanks, Lieutenant, for taking the trouble to deliver the message personally and not by the com.”
“Captain, like I must to come to the mess either way I decides to give you the message directly.”
After that Uhura gives Spock a killing glare, and turn to pick her tray. Jim goes to take it in a meeting room with Spock.
They must part to Sigma Omega V for a diplomatic mission. They need to They need to gather as many resources as possible for the Federation, and form alliances to protect themselves from the Klingons and Romulans. So this mission is really important given that Sigma Omega V was really close to the neutral zone with the Romulan Empire.
Admiral Nogura. Doesn't believe in Jim, that's for certain; but he is Captain of the Enterprise and he will do his best- even to the surprise of the Admiral.
Jim calls Scotty, Uhura and McCoy to join the meeting with Spock. They sat around the table and Jim looks them seriously.
“We have our first diplomatic mission in our hands; and I want to make sure we do this thing right.”
“So Uhura, please make me a report about the most important issues of Omegan V people, along with their language and customs. McCoy, I want a report about their biology; and the ecology of the planet. Spock I want a report from your department in every essential thing about this planet; especially about the minerals and their people. We will meet tomorrow with the Sociologist Borges and the Historian Vargas and come up with an approach for this mission on Omega V in relation to each of your departments.”
“Any questions?”
McCoy looks worry and says, “Jim, we have very little information about their physiology.”
“I know Bones, but we must do what we can with the information we have. I want the best report you can give me with the better interpretation of what we’ve got.”
Lt. Vargas clears his throat, then says, “How many time we have until the reports must be due?”
“All the information is already disclosed, so I want your reports two days from now for the end of the Beta shift, but I will glad if I can ask you all for a first approach tonight.”
“Any other questions?”
Silence.
”Well in that case you are dismissed.“
That day after his shift ends, he goes to his quarters to read the preliminary reports almost every department send to him, after tomorrow briefing.
The Omegans where sentient with superior intelligent beings who evolved from the Praying Mantis (the closer species in earth) they have little humanoid traces. Every animal life of their planet evolved of different kinds of insects. They are in the first steps of space technology development; non warp capability and they recently finished a war of 30 years against a faction for world domination.
The Green Backs Mantis won against The Red Backs Mantis. Apparently these people have telepathic abilities not yet developed, but there are gifted ones who generally are the priests, and have a lot of power in their society.
They will meet the chancellor and the chief priest in the house of governs in two days.
As for the resources of the planet - they have a lot of dilithium deposits, and they are not too far away from the Romulan border.
The communications department says they have calibrated the universal translator with the main languages and some variation of it. The Omegans who called themselves S’craik-thi, are intelligent people. They have a short temper, and are like Earthlings of the 20th century in a bare approach.
Jim then reads the Biology report; which states very little - like McCoy warned about - but does say that Mantis physiology appears to offer a lot of strength, and that they are green-blooded. Apparently they are private people.
…….
Then his door opens, and Jim finds Spock in his doorway.
“Please enter, Mr. Spock”
“Captain, may I speak with you?”
“Of course Spock - sit. The talk is free, and you can have a cup of tea with it,” Jim says with a bright smile.
“I fail to understand why someone could charge for speaking words.” Spock raises an eyebrow almost to the ceiling.
“Don't worry Spock, it's a manner of speech.” Jim hands him a cup of Vulcan spiced tea.
“Well - what do you want to tell me, Spock?
“Captain, I want to talk to you about a private matter. if I may?”
“Oh, that will be great, I'm not the Captain then, I'm Jim!”
Spock raises his eyebrow higher and after a consideration.
“Jim, sir… I am in lack of human skills about human courtship, the development, and the end of it”
“So, you want my opinion about your romantic relationship with Lt.Uhura?
“I wish to know how humans typically end their courtships?”
“Did Uhura end it with you? Really?”
“No Cap… Jim, you are mistaken; I have decided to end the relationship Lt. Uhura thinks she has with me.”
“What? But I saw you kiss her at 'the Narada incident' - and I know you two generally are more professional, but I thought you were more like a couple in private and, you that spent a lot of time out of shift with her, I…”
“Well, I consider Lt. Uhura a close personal friend. I was instructing her on various pieces of Vulcan music, and especially in techniques involving the Vulcan Lyre. She has an appreciable aptitude in singing.”
As Jim thinks through what Spock is saying, he suddenly remembers the previous night in the corridor.
“Spock, what happened?”
“Yesterday night, as I was praising the improvements in her technique, she put her arms around me like the time of my emotional breakdown. She attempted to press her lips to mine. So I protested.”
“She was upset, and she told me she was waiting for me to adapt to our relationship. She thought we had reached a comfortable place, where we could evolve into the next stage.”
“So, I clarified to her that we were never in any stage. That I valued her friendship and her help during my time of emotional need, I was not pursuing a romantic liaison with her.Then the lieutenant proceeded to assault my person, and then retreated from my quarters.”
Jim couldn't believe what Spock is saying. Poor Uhura - this was the misunderstanding of the century.
“Jim, I wonder if you can explain me what is wrong and what I must do to ask for forgiveness, I cannot imagine why I must apologize, but apparently it is the correct thing to do. Until now I have tried to express my apologies, but the only result of this has been another punch, or indifference. The lieutenant's grievances have already reached some others females of the crew, like Miss Chapel, who sends the most disconcerting feelings in my direction.”
Jim really didn't know whether to laugh, or pity the poor guy.
“Spock you are in trouble, everybody on this ship thought you two were a couple!
They're going to see you as the bad guy, who was stringing her along for your entertainment!”
“Jim, I must assure you that I have not been entertained during this situation.”
“I know Spock, I know. I think the best you can do for now is to let the times pass for her, and then talk to her. She will need to be angry for some time to settle this new information and her new state, and then you can talk to her.”
“Jim, how many hours she will need to settle before I can apologize to her, and have a logical conversation with her? I appreciate the lieutenant and her companionship, and she has interesting points of view -”
“Spock, Spock - she's going to need some time, really. It just depends on the person. So when she's ready to talk, she'll come to you. That's the best advice I have!”
Spock raises both of his eyebrows, and then makes a movement to leave.
“Spock, would you like to stay and talk some more with another cup of tea?”
“That it would be agreeable, Jim.”
………..
The next morning all is perfect. Jim and Scotty have the coordinates; and the landing party will consist of Spock, Lt. Uhura, Bones, a historian named Lt. Vargas, three security personal, and Jim.
Spock beams down with the security team, first; and doesn't report any trouble. So the second group with Lt. Vargas, Uhura, Bones and Jim step onto the transporter, and Jim orders Scotty to takes command and to beam the landing party down.
Jim can concede with Bones that make yourself into molecules in the transportation make you a little ticklish, but he has not fear about reintegrate again. Jim sees himself on the surface with his personal surround him, but he disappears almost immediately again into the dark.
Bones.
McCoy always knew that damn transporter would be the death of them - being dissolved into a thousand particles was just not natural. And with a pain in his heart, he knows he is right.
Jim was at his side - smiling one minute - and then he isn't there at all.
Uhura says that he appeared on the surface and then he disappeared. Bones is not certain. Spock calls the Enterprise immediately, but Scotty doesn't have him. Jim is beamed down to the surface successfully and then - nothing.
The Red Backs Mantis claim not to have any information, and Spock seems distrustful.
Leonard was really worried, and he really doesn't know what to do, so he tries to see what Spock have.
“Spock, there must be something we could track or find out, right?”
“At the moment there is not, The Prime Minister is searching with his military net, and i will go to the Enterprise to try to seek the Captain with the ship’s scans.”
“You hobgoblin, you really can’t trust an insect can you? They can only make clickity-clicks with their mouths, for Christ’s sake. They are into something and it is not good.”
“Doctor we must to stay calm. And we need to have some level of trust, if we want their cooperation in the search of the Captain.”
“You can trust all you want, but we can be sure this guy over there doesn’t kidnap Jim in order to get a better agreement in the treaty with us”
“Doctor, The Prime Minister Sk’shr seems truly concern as we do, maybe not for the Captain wellbeing but for his people- Since they know all about ‘The Nero Incident’ and their proximity with the Romulan Empire. Plotting something against the Captain will be really unwise for them; If he wants the alliance with the Federation - losing this opportunity considering how much they lost already in their war, it could be Illogical.”
“Why I even take the bother to talking to machine? If you need me I will be with the others, Spock, with the people who actually could be worry.”
Spock nods to him and ask for Scotty to beam him up.
……
The Green Backs Mantis state that there are a small faction of rebels, who have some control over the planet - but the Red Back don’t believe they are responsible for Kirk’s disappearance. But they send out intelligence and military to investigate, with the hopes that the misunderstanding will be settled very soon.
McCoy doubts the Red Backs results. However, Spock requests that they stay with the Red Backs while he returns to the Enterprise, in order to aid a search for Jim. They do a Biology scan on the planet, with the hopes that since the Mantis are not human, the search could prove fruitful.
McCoy, Uhura and the security officers are taken to some rooms assigned to them for their visit; and they are told they will be informed of any possible clue or result.
McCoy is really restless. He sits, then walks, and then sits again. Being helpless and having Jim disappear or in danger is no news for him; but either way he hated being helpless, and just waiting if he could patch up the boy if they could save him.
He shares a concerned look with Uhura, while she communicates with the ship on any news that can help with the search.
Time passes really slowly. Waiting and knowing that Jim could be hurt doesn't help to make the time go faster. Neither does Spock calling to say there is nothing in the scans, so far.
Finally the unexpected happens again. One of the insect guys, Bones really doesn't know whom, because they all seems the same- is running as he opens the door, and tells them they must follow him quickly. Bones doesn't need more words as he run for it; with his med tricorder in one hand, and his heart in the other.
Jim is lying prone unconscious where they beamed out; completely nude and unconscious.
Bones rushes to Jim's side, and calls on the comm. to have them beamed up. Things don't look good - but fortunately the Red Backs did not move Jim when he reappeared. Bones scans him with a med tricorder, and sees the unbelievable: Jim’s mind is a void.
The med team is there, and McCoy can’t believe it - Spock looks to be feeling something for a moment, maybe something human like concern. But Spock follows the team up, as McCoy barks orders, and tries to stabilize his captain - his friend - Jim.”
…..
The med bay is a chaos. McCoy orders all the unauthorized personnel out; including the obtuse Mr. Spock, who doesn’t want to leave.
The scan in the med bay gives him the same information that he already knew. There is some internal damage but that is the easy part Jim needs a ventilator, as his body is not doing his thing well on his own. McCoy knows that he can maintain his body functioning, but he is in a really deep coma. Leonard doesn’t know if Jim can comeback from it, because the brain scan show no brain patterns like the boy have before this hell.
After he sees Spock loitering in the lobby of the med bay trying to obtain Jim status - for what feels like the hundredth time - Bones decides to take Spock back into his office.
“Spock, I did all I could. I really don’t know if the kid will come back, I know, he always comes back, but I’m not so sure this time. His brain patterns are a complete mess. No scan can give me his normal readings, even if he is unconscious he should have a pattern, for Christ’sake! But I’m only a country doctor, not a voodoo priest. So all I can do is maintaining him in the ventilator, monitor his vitals and wait.”
While Spock looks as stoic as always, Leonard knows that he is actually concerned. He nods while Bones is giving his prognosis and say.
“Doctor, I think I may be able to reach the Captain with a mind meld.”
“A what?”
“A mind meld- the joining of two minds. If I try this maybe I can ascertain if the Captain is still there, and help him to resurface. I must confess that I have never tried this with a human. But, I am uncertain of any other solutions - unless you have one, Doctor?”
“Wait right there, Spock! If you think I will give you permission to mess with my patient's mind, you are totally mistaken! We will wait; maybe he only needs time to heal with his own resources.”
“But if nothing happens, please reconsiders my offer.”
Spock gets up from the chair and moves to walk out; but then he stops and inclines his head to Leonard. “May I see him?”
“If you promise to behave and don't try any Vulcan mumbo jumbo, you must know.”
“A Vulcan Mind meld is nothing like the sort. It is a gift from our ancestor, a skill is you must.”
Spock and McCoy approach where Jim is filled with machines. He is on his side looking like he is only sleeping. Spock walks to him, and stays there for a long time.
Bones decides to go for a brandy. He needs one; because it is a sure thing he won’t sleep today. He sees Spock from through his office’s window; leaning toward Jim’s sleeping form, and touching his hand very quickly- and then jerks it off. But he dismisses any thought about it.
Spock.
This must be his fault. He could've researched more about their political affairs, so he could have ascertained that his Captain would be in danger. He must foresee all possible outcomes, and this time he didn't.
Now no one knows if the Captain will ever wake up. He must do something; he knows he could at least see if Jim is in the body connected to machines.
Of course, the good Doctor doesn't want to see with logic the problem at hand. The Vulcan mind meld is a medical tool that modern medical technology cannot compete with - and maybe it is the only way Spock can see Jim.
He seems like he is sleeping, and he seems so aesthetically pleasing in that way, his features calm and relaxed. Spock decides to takes a little risk, so he let’s his finger wonder in the hand and wrist peering from under the white blanket, His hand was a little more pinkish than his natural tanned, his writs are bruised with the evidence of hard restrains, and now with the needles where his flesh is joining to a machine; Spock brushes the back of Jim’s hand and stay a little in his fingers. Spock knows as he touches the soft skin, that there is someone there - But it is a really faint presence, and kind of strange, because there it is like a lightning bolt of electricity in that minimum instant of touch.
Spock had accidentally touched the Captain in several previous occasions; yet this is not the same impression. It is some different, and yet closer somehow. Spock decides to try to meditate about it for deeper analyzation.
The only fact that he is able to take out of that small touch, is that the Captain’s body is occupied by someone, whom has certain affinity with his own mind, like Kirk has; so that someone using logic, must be the Captain.
Spock is really busy the next two days, so he cannot see for himself if the Captain has made some progress. He must put up with limits for the negotiations with the S’craik-thi. In order to have negotiations at all, the actual S’craik-thi govern must resolve the issues between them and the rebel faction, and arrive at some kind of peace; before the Federation will agree to a new negotiation table.
Spock decides to put together an investigative group, in order to determine what happened to the Captain. The rebels involved will be delivered to the Enterprise soon, in order to take them into custody and interrogation; for the felony committed against the Captain of a starship, his position at the moment as an ambassador and the Federation as a whole.
As an olive branch for negotiations, will be given directly to the Federation for processing; as an act of good faith. In the rules of the planet, the culprits could be sentenced to death.
Spock really doesn't want to come back or stay in orbit of that planet anymore, he would prefer takes the Captain to New Vulcan for a treatment, but the orders where clear: The Federation wants this treaty and this situation resolved in two weeks.
Admiral Komack is really firm in his thesis that two weeks were a generous lapse of time for them to resolve it. The ‘Prime Directive’, as the good Doctor could say in his colorful manner, ‘could go to hell’ or something in the lines. The Enterprise must then mediate negotiations between both factions of the S’craik-thi, and get them to sign a treaty quickly. According to Komack, two weeks are also sufficient for the Captain to recover. If he doesn’t, however, Spock would be the captain; and they will send a human to replace Spock as first officer, within the month.
Spock is against a wall and time. He must find out what happened to James Tiberius Kirk down on the planet, and how to bring him back to life again. The problem is that he needs the Captain right there to find a ‘creative solution’, in such short notice - but he is alone. He tries to call sickbay in any available moment, waiting for an answer than he is stable - but Jim is still in a coma.
………….
It takes Spock three days to get himself to the Medbay in person. The Doctor is sipping his Saurean Brandy in a small glass. “Damn you hobgoblin, knock first or something… You must be enlisted as a Ninja and not as a scientist officer - you walk like a cat, do you know that?”
“Doctor, I fail to understand how I am like a ancient Asian spy from the dark ages of Japan, or like a Terran feline. However, I came tonight, to ascertain the condition of the Captain, and to see him, if possible.“
“Possible, yes - practical, no. He isn’t there Spock! His status, it is the same as three days ago, I really wonder if this is the end of the kid”.
“I trust he will comeback at some point Doctor. Maybe you must reconsider my petition of a mind meld with him. I must assure you that it could be a real help, and that it can bring the Captain to the surface if he is in there.”
Spock is exasperated. He tries to not to show it, but really McCoy is so illogical and stubborn, Spock cannot understand how this man could be such an important friend in the life of Jim Kirk, but he is not there for a discussion.
“Doctor, Admiral Komack, will remove the Captain from his post in two weeks, if he doesn’t show a sign of recovery. We have not recovered any information of what happened to him yet, or how to reverse Jim’s coma. So please Doctor, reconsider my option, and keep your emotional outburst for yourself. Is that clear?”
“Green blooded bastard! Do you think I’m not worried, and that i didn’t try all I could already! Okay, you can see him now - and I will read all I can about this magic trick of yours. I will tell you my answer in two days; it is that enough for you, sir?”
“Yes indeed, Doctor. If you will excuse me, I will see the Captain now.”
Spock does not like the Doctor remarks, he calm his disturb down, while he walks towards his Captain’s bed. But the time he arrives there, he seems to think a little better, and he is calmer than before. Maybe being so close of this force of nature, called James Kirk, has influence him more than he could recognize.
He knows the influence this man cause in others. Sometimes the crew would be tired or in a bad mood; one smile from him, and everybody would seems to relax, and have more energy, and more hope. Spock is not affected by him. But he recognizes the strong force of this man. Humans were very strange creatures.
Jim looks tranquil in his sleep. Spock decides to try again to sense the mind of the Captain, with a little more depth. He touches Jim’s face, only resting his fingers in his meld points for a while, without initiates a full meld. There is again the presence - more strong than the last time, but more restless somehow, too. It is really far away from the surface, yet it is foreign and close.
Spock is disconcerted by this. But maybe it has to do with the state of the Captain after a severe trauma that they don’t know anything about. He does not know if he could make the mind of the Captain; resurface completely even after a meld. Spock decides that in order to make it better, he will engage in deeper and larger amounts of meditation; at every possible free moment he has.
………………….
Two days later, two prisoners are beamed up to the Enterprise, Spock decides to lead the interrogations himself.
When he enters the brig he senses immediately the presence of a strong telepathic mind in one of the S’craik-thi.
“Explain, the entire situation that involves the Captain of this vessel being kidnapped and why is he in comatose state?”
None of them will talk. Spock is annoyed at this point, so he decides to play with the truth.
“If neither of you will talk, there will be consequences. You are now under Federations laws. While there is no death penalty for your actions, you will face a trial, and must accept its rulings. Those punishments might become more severe if we cannot save the Captain. If you want to save yourselves, you must cooperate.”
“If you do not, we have more effective methods of knowing the truth. There are ways to enter the mind, without your consent. My advice is not to take this issue too far, and to reveal your information - as I am not sure of my accuracy, due to my young age and inexperience, I may leave you… incapacitated? But it would be preventable, if you gave the information that we are requesting.”
The older S’craik-thi, who has psychic abilities, advises the other without speaking for a while. Then decides to meld with Spock either anyway. Spock accepts with aplomb the challenge. He closes his eyes and strengthens his shields. Calm and collected, he raises his hand and puts them at the psi points of the alien, and recites:
“My mind to your mind, my thoughts to your thoughts…”
Spock enters an experienced mind with order, but with some remorse and failed hopes. Spock asks for the fate of the Captain, and an explanation about what happened to him.
The idea was to put ideas in Jim's mind, in order for it to work in the favor of the rebels; and to give them what they want, without a fight. The Captain of the Federation could bring order; the order they want for their planet.
But something goes terribly wrong, and the Captains mind becomes a void. The elder try to save him, but it is too late, all is erased, there is only a faint light remaining in the Captain's mind impossible for him to reach, so they decides to return the body.
The elder feels real remorse and guilt. But this isn't enough, not for Jim, not for the Federation and not for Spock. The anger grows in his gut. He wants this emotion to fade away he wants to kill the light of this person and obliterated his mind; as he did with the Captain’s. The Elder is ready to accept his punishment; but Spock will not do this, Jim will never agree with something like this. There are regulations, there are laws, and they will judge. Trying to ease his fury, he leaves the conscience of the Elder S’craik-thi, and gets out of the brig; with the disconcert look of the old creature.
Spock goes to his quarters and he felts almost sick. He can't understand why he is so angry, and why he is so lost in this feeling of ultimate sorrow. He refreshes his face. Then he sees that he must try to meditate a period of time, in order to collect himself. To understand why he is so lost in emotions, and to find out the reason of this feelings and purge them.
He regains some calm. But his meditation is fruitless; there is only a thought in his mind: He must save Jim. It is so overwhelming, like the lost of his control, and this alien feeling, whom he can't name.
He must save him. Spock goes to the intercom, and asks for sickbay.
“McCoy, here.”
“How is the Captain?”
“Spock you know damn well he is in the same state.”
“Very well Doctor, I will see you in your office immediately, and I want to know how your research is going.”
“Hey, Spock…”
But he cuts the communication before he can hear the rest. Spock walks to the turbolift in few long steps and calls for the deck of Sick bay. He stops at the door, trying to mask his face to his normal one; and then enters determined to the Doctor office.
“The attack of the Captain was telepathic. They erased his conscience and his memories, Doctor”
McCoy fell in his seat, with an incredulous eyebrow up. “Spock, you can't erase the conscience. Maybe the memories, but if they erase him, he'll be dead”
“They say it is an accident. The purpose is to use the Captain for their goals, but their inexperience with a human mind is far beyond their comprehension and abilities.”
“You are telling me they broke him, and they are sorry!” McCoy puts a hand to his face. Normally he would be yelling some illogical, colorful metaphor; but for now he was only holding his face. He lifts his chin, and gives Spock a wondering gaze.
“Spock, I did some research; and I know you could help him if you were a healer. But you are not, and we can't…”
His phrase hangs in the air, for a moment and he come back to hold his hands under his chin, again.
“We must” Spock says seriously.
“Doctor we must know, if he is there, and if we can save him, We can call a healer or going to New Vulcan for one, on a later date.”
McCoy lifts a finger at him. “Then we must try”. He doesn't look at Spock's face, after a moment he stares intensely at Spock, “We must save him, Spock”.
So Spock walks to the door, and to Jim's bedside. There he gently presses his fingertips to the meld points, and starts to whisper, “My mind to your mind…”
To be continued in Part II