December 17

SCIENCE FICTION

Star Trek - Kirk/Spock

Author: C. A. Mallett
Title: A Most Unusual Gift
Date: December 17th, 2004
Fandom: Star Trek, TOS
Pairing: K/S Rating: Slash
Summary: Kirk and Spock receive an unusual Christmas gift
Disclaimer: Feedback address: mac.cac@verizon.net
Advertisement: Part of the SAC-2004 at: http://www.kardasi.com/Advent/2004/SAC-2004.htm
Note: Beta'd: Leese, Bernie and later by Anne  A Most Unusual Gift by C. A. Mallett

A MOST UNUSUAL GIFT

"T'Pring, explain why the challenge? Why did your choose my Captain as your champion?"

"Stonn wanted me. I wanted Stonn."

"I see no logic in preferring Stonn over me."

"You have become almost a legend among our people. I did not want to be the consort of a legend. But, by our laws I could only divorce you by the Kal-if-fee."

"What would you have done if Captain Kirk was the victor?"

"He would not want me. I would have Stonn. And if you were the victor, you would free me because I had dared to challenge, and again I would have Stonn."

"And what if I had not freed you?"

"It would be the same. You would be gone, I would have your name and property and Stonn would still be there."

"Logical. Flawlessly, logical."

Spock turned to the Vulcan male beside T'Pring. "Stonn, she is yours. After a time you may find that having is not so pleasing a thing, after all, as wanting. It is not logical, but it is often true." Then he walked back to stand in front of T'Pau.

"Live long and prosper, Spock."

"I shall do neither. I have killed my Captain and my friend."

Spock walks away from T'Pau and stops. He turns and looks back at T'Pau. With a nod he bids farewell to the matriarch.

"Energize."

T'Pau watched as he sparkled out of existence, then dismissed the group. <<<<|>>>> The following day.

T'Pau entered her office and sat behind her desk. The events of yesterday weighed heavily on her mind. The Kal-if-fee was not often used but is this case she was glad it was. She did not like T'Pring. She never did. As a child, T'Pring was cunning, conniving and underhanded to obtain her goals. T'Pau never understood how or why her son chose her over all the others for her grandson. Regardless, T'Pring was now Stonn's consort. Deep-down she wondered if Stonn knew what he was getting into.

She allowed herself a small smile knowing that her grandson was free of his father's choice... She had always thought T'Pring was the wrong decision but her son, like herself, was too bull-headed to give in. Spock had paid the price, yet again.

With Sarek and Amanda away on a diplomatic mission she now had time to work behind his back for Spock's best interest.

T'Ane, her secretary and confidant, entered the office carrying a tray. She put down on T'Pau's desk and began to pour the tea. "You still look tired after yesterday. Did you not sleep well? I would have thought the outcome you pleased you?" She handed her a cup.

"You, T'Ane, are too nosy for your own good." She took a sip of the beverage, "Tau- beri. You think I am in need of a relaxant?"

"Of course not. That isn't all it's good for and you know it."

"You know me too well."

"After eighty-eight point nine years, I should." She pulled a chair closer to the desk. "I also know you have been here since before dawn. I also know from past experiences that you have something up you sleeve. Knowing you the way I do, you have not eaten since yesterday so Ibrought us nourishment. I'm assuming it's going to be a very long morning."

T'Ane made sure they ingested the morning meal before the day's work started. She put her chair back and took the cup from T'Pau's hands. As she did so she looked into Matriach's eyes. "What are you up to?"

T'Pau was a world away."His pon farr was aborted."

"Aborted...? Wait a minute. Does this have anything to do with yesterday?"

She replied with a nod. "My son is an idiot!"

"Sarek may be many things but he is not an idiot? I don't think Lady Amanda would have found an idiot attractive either." She pause as she realized what T'Pau meant.. "You knew Spock was coming home. You knew about T'Pring choice of challenge."

"Of the challenge, yes. I was not prepared for her choice of champion."

"I thought you said she chose Stonn?"

"She has sais him, yes. But she chose another at the last minute."

"I guess it will do no good to ask if she can do that."

"T'Pring was within her right. What troubles me is Spock. When is my son expected back?"

"The day before Tasme'en"

"There is much I have to do and I want no interference this time."

"T'Pau, I won't let you pull the stunts on Spock as you did on Sarek. He's found a place to call his own. Let him have it why he can.

"I have no intention of pulling him away... yet."

"All right, I'll go along with you for now. You are aware there are many who will not accept your 'mix-bred' unless it is to their advantage. That is not fair to you or your family line.

"I am aware of that. And it's 'half-breed'. No, if Spock is to fulfill his destiny then his concern is paramount."

"T'Pau be reasonable. Let the child free."

"I cannot for he has chosen."

"Chosen, what do you mean chosen? For the past thirteen years Spock has been with Star Fleet. If he had chosen another don't you think he would have told you or done something about it before now? Let him go. Let him find his own happiness. Because I cannot think of one Vulcan female who is capable of luring him back to Vulcan soil after what just happened. Certainly Sarek's influence will not bring his son home. He was the driving force that pushed Spock away."

"No, Spock has chosen and I for one agree. I require more information before I finalize my plans."

"Not unless you know someone I don't. Over the years I combed through a lot of confidential files for you."

"Your assistance has been of great value to me. For that I am grateful."

"This individual..."

"Kroykah! Enough is said."

"As you wish." She knew enough not to push.

"T'Ane, it is not that I wish to keep it from you. I've kept very little from you in the past. I just want to be certain that this will work out before we plan any further. My son has no intention of taking my place. He enjoys what he's doing too much. No, this duty will eventually fall to Spock. It is not only his future but the future of Vulcan that is at stake. I intend to complete this long before Sarek returns."

"The pickings are slim, T'Pau."

"Broaden your horizons, T'Ane."

"Why... you... underhanded..."

T'Pau ignored her. "Get me Grayon" It wasn't a question. "I need information, and, I need now!"

"And when are you ever going to learn to use the computer system."

"If I did, why would I have need to keep you around? The things a monstrosity."

"It's not a thing..." T'Ane gave up. "...Never mind." She knew it would do no good to argue, so she moved the tray to one side and pushed a button on the side of desk. The screen popped up as computer module was activated. She leaned across and typed in several series of codes until the face of Grayson came into view."

"I'll leave you alone, shall I?"

"Nemadu."(thank-you)

T'Pau waited until the door was shut and she was alone. The first thing she did was to set her security code to scramble. She knew all about computers. Who do you think gave Spock his first lesson. Not that she'd let on to anyone. This feat often gave her a edge over her opponent.

"I don't suppose this is a social call, T'Pau?"

"Of course not. I need information and I need it without knowledge."

"In other words you want me to snoop?"

"Call it what you like."

"Who is it this time?"

T'Pau typed in the name.

"T'Pau... You can't be serious?"

"I am. Are you going to do it?"

"That depends."

"Nicolaus, I need information that is not Star Fleet issued."

"I'll get on it as soon as you tell me why."

It took T'Pau almost an hour to explain her story.

"You're absolutely sure about this?"

"Nicolaus, you may be my daughter-in-law's brother, but you are still annoying. If there was any other way, I would use it."

"You, T'Pau, are all heart."

"Is that a yes?"

"I'll call when I have what you want. Grayson out." <<<<|>>>>

Three months later, Admiral Nicolaus Grayson finally got the last piece of data he had requested. Now all he had to do was call T'Pau.

"Hello, T'Ane. Tell 'mistress' T'Pau I've done her 'bidding' for the last time."

"You can tell her yourself you, Nicci, she right here."

"How's my Mandi and that so-called husband of her's."

"Lady Amanda is well as is Sarek. Why don't you call her yourself?"

"I will after I've finished with her 'Highness'."

T'Pau sat at her desk "Nicolaus, mind your manners."

"Good morning to you too, T'Pau."

"Did you get everything?"

"Yes... and something quite unexpected."

"I am delighted the here that. I believe I recall Amanda saying something about a Human holy day occurring almost a month after Tasme'en. Some type of deity holiday I believe."

"You mean Christmas."

"As my daughter id fond of saying, "it will make a nice gift"."

"Why you 'old goat' "

"Mind you manners, Nicolaus. You will see to the arrangement with Star Fleet and I will see you and Dr. Kirk two days prior to the appointed date."

"Doctor Kirk, don't you mean Captain Kirk?"

"No. As Amanda is always telling me "Christmas" is a time for Terran family."

"You are Vulcan remember."

"Perhaps just this once it should be a 'family' holy-day. Do you not agree?"

"We'll see you on the 23rd , Grayson out." <<<<|>>>>

It had been seven months since Spock's so-called marriage had been called off by T'Pring. Seven months in which Kirk spent getting to know his first officer on a more personal level.

Kirk stopped just inside the doors. He waited for them to close silently behind him before entering any further. Whatever Spock was looking at held his attention because he didn't hear Kirk enter. Kirk tiptoed across the room and peered over Spock's shoulder.  He froze, staring at the screen with disbelief. This wasn't happening.  Not now, not when he had put so much into this.

There, in bright amber letters on a charcoal-grey background stood the paralyzing message.

Spock

I demands your return immediately.

Vulcan's long range shuttle, The Surak, will rendezvous with the Enterprise on stardate 2312.23 to escort you back to Vulcan.

T'Pau

"Great!" Kirk hissed "I'll say one thing for T'Pau. She has lousy timing." He looked at Spock's face and saw a blank distant look, a look he knew all too well.  A look that only meant trouble. And trouble was not what he wanted right now.

Spock stated. "It seems I must return to Vulcan."

"When?"

"Tomorrow."

"Tomorrow? Spock the message said the 23rd."

"Correct, Jim. That starts at midnight tonight."

"Damn." Kirk replied not fully keeping the disappointment from his voice.

"I, too, am disappointed...."

Kirk wasn't giving up that easily. Then a thought struck him. His eyes brightened, along with his voice. "Spock, we can still have a few days together.  I could travel with you to Vulcan."

Spock did not reply immediately. He knew how much his answer would hurt Kirk but there was no way around it. "No Jim, I must return alone."

"Why?" Kirk asked trying to force a smile.

When he didn't reply Kirk swung Spock's chair around, forcing Spock to look directly at him. "Why must you return alone? Why can't I go with you?"

"Jim, you read the message. T'Pau has ordered the Surek. I doubt that Starfleet would permit the Enterprise to return to Vulcan on a whim from T'Pau." Spock rose from his chair. "If you will excuse me, I must pack."

Kirk watched as Spock crossed his office to the sleeping area. "I have leave owing me. I can take a couple of days. Star mapping doesn't require the captain." His eyes never left the Vulcan.

Spock deliberately kept his back to Kirk. He didn't want Kirk to see how much T'Pau's message had hurt. "Jim, there is a possibility that I may not return," he stated taking his Vulcan robe from the closet.

Kirk closed the space between them then put his hand on Spock's arm, forcing him to stop. "What do you mean, not return?"

"Just that."  Spock's icy tone cut through Kirk like a knife slicing through butter.

Kirk grabbed hold of Spock's arm and forced the Vulcan to look at him.  "Spock, I don't understand." The look on Spock's face and the gut feeling in his stomach told him something was wrong. "There's something else... Something that you're not telling me, isn't there?"

Spock looked at Kirk, his dark eyes were trying very hard to mask the feeling he felt inside. "I am sorry," he stated.

"Sorry!" Kirk snapped as anger boiled the blood in his veins. "Sorry that you can't stay? Or that you're leaving?"

"I have my duty to Vulcan."

"Vulcan turned it's back on you."

"Nevertheless I am Vulcan."

"Then refuse. It won't be the first time."

Spock cast his eyes downward, breaking all eye contact with Kirk.  He paused for a few seconds, then, when he had Kirk's full attention he let the bomb drop. "Jim, one does not ignore T'Pau. She is within her rights as head of clan. I must return."

"No!"

"Jim... I am sorry. I must return."

Stunned, Kirk dropped his hand and stood frozen while Spock turned and continued to pack.

When Spock had his back, Kirk fled from the room.  Not knowing which way to turn he went straight to his quarters.

At first, Kirk didn't know what to do. During the past seven months they had become so close. So very close. Though they had not shared anything more than a kiss, it had, up to now, been enough. He had planned on giving Spock a special gift this year. Now, his plan was being taken away from him by T'Pau. Spock wouldn't be here. Kirk knew he had to give it one last shot to stop him.  

He palmed the door mechanism and entered through their connecting head, cutting across the outer room to the sleeping alcove where Spock was just closing the valise. Kirk put one hand on Spock's arm, forcing him look at him.

Spock's face was void of all expression except for one tiny flaw.  One single tear ran down his cheek marring his stoic mask. Kirk quickly dropped his hand and stepped backwards. He had never seen Spock cry before. Part of him wanted to reach out, to hold and protect his love, while part of him wanted to flee.

"Spock," he whispered.

Spock lifted his tear-stained face and looked into the hazel pools he had come to love.  "Jim, I do not wish to go. I..." he faltered, then tried again. "I want..." His words faded into nothing and were followed by a long pause.  "No. I must return to T'Pau and explain."

Seeing Spock like this broke Kirk's heart. It was os obvious Spock was torn. Kirk couldn't help thinking that it was all his fault. If they hadn't spent that one night together, if they hadn't kissed, then none of this would be causing the Vulcan emotional stress now. But it had happened and Kirk was selfish enough to want it to continue. These new feelings had left him frustrated. He knew Spock needed love and understanding. And up to now, Kirk had thought of himself as that someone. He wanted Spock for himself!

Kirk pulled Spock into his arms, and as he held him, he thought. //What right do I have to have to keep you? If only there was more time.// Then in a soft soothing voice tried his best to calm Spock. "Explain what, Spock? We both knew sooner or later Vulcan would call you back. I didn't think it would be this soon."

"Vulcan holds nothing for me."

Kirk wasn't listening. "You haven't exactly found anyone here. And most of the time you refuse to take shore leave except for the few times when I have dragged you with me."

"That is not true!" Spock replied breaking free of Kirk's hold. "I willingly went with you." He turned away from the one who had captured his heart.  In a low voice he whispered his confession, "Jim, I have found someone. But I am at a loss to know how to proceed to the next step."

Kirk's heart sank.  Was Spock trying to let him down easy? //Kirk, You pigheaded bastard. How can you think of yourself at a time like this. Look what you're doing to him.... Damn!// He hated seeing Spock this upset. Masking his true feelings he tried to sound as cheerful as possible and hoped the Vulcan wouldn't see through his charade.

"Spock, that shouldn't be too hard. Half the females on this ship are tripping over each other to get your attention."

The silent tears continued. "Jim, you do not understand."

Kirk continued, purposely ignoring Spock's plea. "Christine has more than once told you how she felt. She's be more than willing..."

Spock turned around sharply at hearing Chapel's name. Biting his lower lip, "Jim, I have no desire to mate with Miss Chapel or any female."

Kirk still droned on not hearing the Vulcan.  "...Then there's that little brunette in engineering.  You know, the busty one with the cute ass. A man would have to be blind not to notice her..."

Spock shook his head, whispering, "Jim.. Jim, you are missing my point."

Realization hit Kirk like a ton of bricks. "You mean a male. As in man?"

"Yes, Jim. There is someone who I..."

Spock had found someone after all. And more to the point Spock had not told him. Feelings of hurt and jealousy quickly surfaced causing Kirk to become defensive. "Spock, I can't help you." Kirk quickly dropped all the tentative plans he'd made. Even their first kiss was tossed aside to join some forgotten dream. It was obvious that Spock had found someone else and was trying to let him down easy. He was a big boy.  He didn't need to be hit over the head. Spock had someone else. It hurt but he could live with it. He unconsciously took a step backwards. "Spock... I... maybe McCoy can help."

Again Spock dropped his eyes. If Kirk's words hadn't stabbed his heart, his attitude certainly did. //No, Jim, please do not pull away. I love you. I have always loved only you. Can't you see that?// "I do not wish to speak with McCoy."

"He can help you... I... I'm sorry...I can't...." Kirk stated, automatically put more space between them.

Spock had not missed Kirk's reaction. His heart broke by the Human's action.  Indirectly, Kirk had just told him he could not, or would never likely want a relationship with him.

Standing erect, he pulled his Vulcan dignity tightly about himself. "Understood, Captain."

Kirk tried but wasn't successful in keeping his voice neutral.  "I guess I should let you finish packing. Let me know when and where you want the rest of your personal belongings sent, I'll make sure they get there." Kirk left before Spock could reply.

Spock waited until the doors closed then sank into his chair. Taking a deep breath he tried desperately to control the pain in his heart. For a few minutes Spock let his Human side surface. As the tears fell freely, his dual heritage once more struggled for survival. His Vulcan half understood. But his Human half loved the man who just walked out of his life.

T'Pau's words flowed through his memory: 'Are thee Vulcan or are thee Human?' His reply, at the time, had been: 'I burn, T'Pau... My heart is flame, T'Pau'. Except then, he didn't realize it was for Kirk whom he burned. It wasn't until he was back on the Enterprise and saw Kirk alive did he realize just how deeply he deeply loved the Human. Now, he was to lose him again.

Somehow it didn't seem fair. Right now all he wanted to do was run, but he knew he couldn't. "I am what I am," he once had told Lila. //Why did I not tell Jim the truth, when I had the chance?//

Spock logged his resignation in the computer then pushed the chair away from the desk and flopped on his bed. He then did something totally Human - he cried himself to sleep. <<<<|>>>>

Kirk, in his haste to leave Spock's quarters wasn't looking where he was going and collided with McCoy, who was just about to enter his own cabin.

"Where are you off to in such a hurry?" McCoy grabbed Kirk's upper arm. "Hmm...going the wrong way, aren't you?"

"Lay off, Bones!" Kirk snapped, pushing him aside.

"Irritable too," McCoy stated, pulling Kirk inside is own quarters. He waited for the doors to close before speaking. "Wrong answer, Jim. Now, sit down!" he ordered.

As Kirk sat in the chair, McCoy retrieved two glasses and his bottle of Kirk's favourite brandy. He filled two glasses and handed one to Kirk. "You look like you could use a drink."  With drink in hand he sat opposite Kirk. "Want to talk?"

"No!" Kirk snapped.

McCoy took a sip. "Let me rephrase that, Jim. I'm not making a request. It's an order."

"I've nothing to say."

"Bull!" McCoy stared at his friend. "This has to do with Spock, doesn't it?" McCoy waited and when Kirk didn't say anything he continued. "Jim, for the last month you've talked about nothing but Spock. What just happened?"

Kirk swirled the brandy in his glass before drowning it in one gulp.

Patiently, McCoy waited. "Well?"

For a few minutes Kirk couldn't speak, the brandy had taken his breath away. "Good," he whispered, pointing a finger at the empty glass.

"That it is Jim-boy, but it's the wrong answer. Now, answer my question."

Kirk slammed the glass on the desk. He start to rise but was stopped by McCoy's hand on his arm. "Youz ain't goin' no place, Jim-boy. So s'down before youz fall."

"And I don't get drunk on one glass of brandy, McCoy!"

"I'm not your enemy!" McCoy watched as Kirk slowly sank back, down onto the chair.  "You look like someone who just lost his best friend."

"Playing psychiatrist, Doctor?"

"You keep forgetting I am one." He saw Kirk edging forward, "Jim, you don't need a 'shrink' but you do need a friend."

"Sorry, guess I shouldn't have snapped." A small smile edged its way onto the corners of his mouth.

"Jim, what's this all about? And don't say 'nothing' or I will play psychiatrist," he warned. "This has something to do with Spock, doesn't it?"

Kirk nodded 'yes' then took a deep breath and barely whispered, "Spock's leaving and he's in love... with a man."

"Of course he is." McCoy leaned back in his chair. //Jim's not usually this naive.// "Has been for quite some time."

If Spock knocked the wind out of him, McCoy just pulled the rug out from under his feet.

"You knew?" Kirk's voice was barely above a whisper.

"Spock didn't exactly come right out and tell me, if that's what you mean. Over these last two years I've gotten to know him very well, but I'm glad he got around to finally telling you."

"Telling me?" he sputtered.

McCoy watched Kirk's facial expressions like a hawk. They told him that Kirk was leaving something out, something important. And the only way Kirk would loosen up now was to get him drunk. So McCoy started with his underhanded plan.  He waited till Kirk had finished his third glass.

"Jim, if Spock told you, then what were you doing running the opposite direction?"

Kirk sat back with his mouth open. "Pardon?"

"Spock's been broadcasting his feelings for months. I'm a bit curios as to why you aren't with him. Thought you'd be as happy as a clam in a box full of sand."

Kirk lowered his eyes to his lap. //Happy... that Spock's in love with someone else?// He didn't need McCoy to rub it in. He rose and headed for the door. When it wouldn't open he turned back to McCoy. "Open it!" he ordered.

"Jim, calm down." This time it was an order, "In your condition you're not going anywhere."

"Unless you can give me a legitimate reason, release this door. Now!"

"Jim, you're not making much sense."

"Open it!" he ordered.

McCoy counter-ordered. "And I said sit down!"

Kirk recognized the tone. It was not something to toy with. He walked back to the chair he'd just vacated and sat.

McCoy shoved another full glass into his hand. He wasn't letting Kirk out of his sight until he had the full story. He'd deal with Kirk's migraine later.  <<<<|>>>>

After leaving McCoy's quarters, Kirk walked the corridors of the Enterprise  He wasn't going anywhere in particular. He just wanted breathing space. He returned to his quarters just in time to see Spock enter McCoy's cabin.  Part of McCoy's conversation still echoed in his brain. 'I thought you'd be happy he finally told you.'  He swallowed the lump caught in his throat as the truth began to surface.// McCoy... Spock's in love with McCoy.// His heart refused to accept what his mind was saying. //No! No.. it's not true. Not McCoy!//

Kirk didn't remember entering his quarters, nor did he remember removing his bottle of brandy from the shelf behind his desk. Sitting down, he removed his boots and put his feet up on the desk. He poured himself a double portion, held it up to the light and watched as the amber liquid swirled around inside. This, on top of what he'd consumed with McCoy, he knew he'd be sorry in the morning but right now he didn't care.

All he could think of was the words Spock had said earlier. 'Jim, I have found someone.' Oh god, how those words hurt. "Spock, I thought we... that is, us..." Kirk drained his glass and poured another. "Seven months, goddammit, a whole fucking seven months down the drain! What a fool I am! What an idiot, to think you could love me."

 Kirk downed two more glasses. "Dammit, how could you? How could you turn.. Spock... Goddamn you to hell..." Kirk kept pouring until the bottle was empty. Out of frustration he threw the glass against the wall. "Goddammit, Spock, don't you know that I love you!"

 <<<<|>>>>

Spock entered the Doctor's quarters and stood just out of sensor's range. McCoy came from the sleeping area tying the belt on his blue satin bathrobe. He took one look at Spock's face. //Something's definitely wrong in paradise,// he thought to himself.

"Well don't just stand there.  Sit down! You look like hell." Spock's adam's apple bobbed nervously as he sat down opposite McCoy.

//What gives with these two? He's more nervous than Jim was They've been trying to seduce each other for almost this past year. And finally when they get around to doing something they run - in opposite directions!//

Looking at Spock, and knowing how Jim felt, he wanted to shake both of them. //Just what the hell did they say to each other? Never mind, McCoy, you will learn later. Right now, these two love-sick kids need your help.//

"I don't suppose this has anything to do with Jim, does it?

"It has everything to do with him.  T'Pau-"

"T'Pau? When did she come into this?"

"T'Pau has ordered my return."

"Return?" McCoy rubbed his hand back and forth under his chin. "Can she do that?"

"Yes."

"I see."

"I do not wish to leave, but I do have an obligation to Vulcan."

"Bull."

"Doctor?"

"Spock, If this obligation of yours is so vital to Vulcan why did you mislead Jim?"

"I did not... not exactly."

"McCoy ran his hand though his hair. "Which 'not exactly' is it?"

"After Jim read T'Pau's message , there was little left to say."

"You must have said something."

"I did. I told him there was someone..."

"Whoa, back up a bit... You told Jim that there was 'someone else'?"

"No. I told him there was someone who-"

//If you said it like that, no wonder Jim's upset.// "Spock, correct me if I'm wrong, but don't you love Jim?"

"Affirmative. "

"This request... came as a surprise."

"I was not expecting it, if that is what you mean."

McCoy thought for a minute. He had just spent three hours with Kirk getting his side. But Kirk had left only just minutes before Spock called. If Kirk had seen Spock enter his quarters... //Don't go there, McCoy//.

Right now he needed to get Spock's side in order to help them. "Spock where have you been till now?

''Meditating, in my quarters."

"Did it help?"

Spock's hands twitched in his lap. "No. It did not."

McCoy repeated his annoying habit of rubbing his chin. "Spock, do you remember exactly what you said to Jim?"

Spock sat silently for a few minutes before answering.

"Affirmative."

McCoy banged his fist on his desk. These two would drive any man to drink. "Look, don't clam up with me. I'm trying to help you."

"I appreciate your assistance. I will control..."

"Spock, I don't want you to control! Oh hell, just tell me what you said to Jim."

"I told him I have a duty to return."

"That's it?"

Spock nodded.

//Heaven help me.// McCoy looked squarely at the Vulcan. "How the hell can I help you if you don't give me all the facts?"

Spock thought about McCoy's use of logic and decided he was right. Only a fool would continue without all the information. "A month after leaving Vulcan after the Kal-i-fee I received an inquiry from T'Pau. She asked about the Captain and my relationship with him. I told her there was no relationship and her reply was less than complimentary. I can only assume she has taken it upon herself to arrange a suitable mate for me."

McCoy continued to sip his brandy as he thought.

"Take Jim with you."

"I cannot."

"Why?" The question sounded simple enough to McCoy.

"I could not bear the thought of being alone with him, knowing he despises me."

"Spock, you've got it all wrong. Jim doesn't despise you."

"Then why did he run from me?"

McCoy saw part of the problem surfacing. "Because you didn't make it clear who that 'someone' was. Knowing Jim the way I do, he probably thought you were talking about someone else. Not him."

"Why would he think that?"

"Because you idiot, you didn't tell him otherwise." McCoy paused for a brief second or two. "Spock, did you listen to your words when you told Jim?"

"Of course I heard them."

"That's not what I asked. I asked if you 'listened' to your words. Because I don't think you did."

Spock had the decency to looked puzzled.

"Since you weren't precise, Jim, like any other Human, would have jumped to the same conclusion. That you love someone else. Not him."

"That's was not what I meant."

McCoy laid his hand in a fatherly fashion on top of Spock's. "I know you didn't." He thought for a few minutes, "The question is what are we going to do about it?"

Spock raised his right eyebrow, "We?"

"Spock, I know you've had a difficult time accepting your Human half for most of your life. And like it or not Vulcans go through an hormonal change just like Humans do. Some a little later than others.  I'll bet my next month's pay Jim thinks you're involved with another person."

"I am not."

McCoy leaned forward, putting his elbows on the desk top. "You know that.  And I know that. But Jim is convince that you're are." McCoy refilled their glasses and took a mouthful, then he continued. "You could try just coming right out and telling him. I've seen the way you look at him when you think he's not watching you. You've been following him like a silent shadow ever since I came on board. You protect him, even when he doesn't need it. You celebrate with him when things go right. Hell, you're even at his side, giving support, when things go wrong.  Spock, the only thing you have not said to him is - 'I love you'.  And that, is what Jim needs to hear, no matter how illogical it seems to you."

"Then you are suggesting..."

"Suggesting, be damned! I'm telling you!" McCoy drained his glass. "Look Spock, I made Jim spill his guts. Right after our beloved captain walked into me outside my door. But he left here tight as a drum. I'll bet my license he intends to drown the rest of his living soul before tonight is over.

"That is illogical, Doctor.  Jim is aware that an over indulgence of alcohol will cause him to have a migraine."

"Spock, you're not listening! Jim's hurt and upset.  He isn't thinking about tomorrow. All he wants to do right now is drown his pain."

"He is the Captain. What you are saying is illogical."

"Right now Jim is not 'the captain'. He's a human male and he's upset."

Spock raised both his eyebrows. "I do not understand. Why-?"

"Spock, I can't make it any plainer than this. Jim Kirk has always liked you. It took that T'Pring woman to make him realize he was in love with you. Since then, he's spent most of his free time courting you...  Being a Vulcan, I doubt you'd understand what he was doing. Yet, on the other hand you didn't discourage him.  So naturally, he thought his feelings were being reciprocated. Then tonight, you told him that there was 'someone ' in your life... In plain English, you told Jim that you had found 'someone' and that 'someone' wasn't him."

"I did not say that."

"Doesn't matter.  What matters is that's what Jim heard."

Spock looked to McCoy for help. "What do I do, now? I am not experienced in matters such as this."

"Normally, I'd tell you to let Jim get drunk tonight and sort it out in the morning.

"Doctor, I do not have that option. I leave in 75.37 minutes."

Frustrated, McCoy gave up. //What the hell Jim sees in you is beyond anything I can understand. Yet, for you both to be bitten so deeply by the same bug, there must be something there. Something I'm at loss to see right now.//

McCoy leaned back. "Spock, if you're dead set on returning to Vulcan. All I can recommend is that you remember what you two shared."

"That is not good enough. I do, as you say, love him. But if T'Pau has her way, my chance of returning to the Enterprise is almost non existent."

"Things have a way of righting themselves. Sometimes all it takes is just to have a little faith."

"Faith, is not something Vulcans subscribe to."  Spock finished his drink and walked as far as the door before turning around. He looked at McCoy for the last time.

"Don't worry, I'll take care of Jim."

Spock muttered a silent "thank you," and left.

McCoy leaned forward and opened the desk drawer. Carefully he picked up the square silver disk and held it in the palm of his hand.  Remembering what was on it. "Damn," he muttered into an empty room.  He put the disk back, leaned back in his chair and muttered, "I have my work cut out for me." <<<<|>>>>

The Surek landed as scheduled at ShiKahr International Spaceport. Spock was not expecting to be met by anyone and was surprised to see his Father waiting.

"Father, I am somewhat surprised."

The elder Vulcan stated "It was T'Pau's request."

Spock brought his lips tighter together. "I see."

Sarek looked over his shoulder. "Captain Kirk did not accompany you?"

Spock looked at his father.  "No. I saw no reason for him to do so."

"Come, T'Pau is waiting."

They entered the flitter and watched the lights of ShiKahr grow dim behind them. The Flitter slowed as it neared its destination at the base of the L'Langon Mountain range. What greeted the men was an mediaeval looking castle. Once inside Father and son walked side by side in total silence through the long torch lit hallway. Spock looked around him. He had never been here before. He never question as to how his Father knew his way around. In front of an old wooden door, Sarek stopped. He watched as Spock wrapped his invisible Vulcan shroud around himself. Spock clasped his hands behind his back, then raised his head high, almost as if in defiance.  

"Ready?"

"Proceed, Father. I am prepared."

Sarek opened the door. The room looked like the one he had seen in history books. Thick furs covered most of the wooden furniture. There was also a large fur in front of the burning hearth.  No carpet covered the cracked marble floor.  Heavy dark coloured tapestries hung on the walls. Between them, crude torches burned, releasing scents of jasmine and sandalwood into the air.  Seated in the centre of the room was T'Pau.

Spock walked over and knelt before T'Pau. His head nodded once in recognition of her.  Slowly he raised his head and looked straight at her.

"Spock."

"T'Pau," Spock's voice was icy cold and expressionless. "I oppose your intent for this bonding. I have pledged myself to another."

"Kroykah!" was the only word she spoke.

Spock lowered his head and stood directly in front of her. His last move was one of total defiance.

T'Pau stood and faced Spock directly. "Spock, thee has made a mockery of our customs not once but twice. That is unforgivable. Thee prides thyself of thy Vulcan heritage and it will be thy Vulcan heritage thee will live thy life. Tradition will bind you this time. "

"I decline."

"That is not an option. Are thee prepared?"

Spock stood in total silence, not even he father has said a word.

"Spock, are thee prepared?" the matriarch repeated.

Finally he replied, "I am."

T'Pau into them into an ante-chamber. Then instructed Sarek to go one way as she led Spock to yet another room.

"Rest well, Spock. Your instruction await you inside. I will see you at first sun, the day after tomorrow."

"Rest well, T'Pau."  <<<<|>>>>

Sarek entered the room and was greeted by a very cold reception from his wife. One look at her and Sarek knew she had been crying.

//How could you!// she yelled across their bond. //How can you let this happen to him again? You know of Spock's wishes//. Moisture ran freely down her face. //Do you despise your son so much that you deny him any form of happiness?//

//Calm yourself, Beloved. It is because of who he is that I have agreed with T'Pau. I do not hate Spock nor do I wish to see our son robbed of his life.//

//Yet you are willing to bond him to another.//

//This bond is necessary for his survival and for Vulcan.//

//If you willingly hand Spock over to T'Pau to be given to another then you care nothing for Spock or me!//

//That is not true, beloved. I love Spock as I love you. How could I not? Spock was created because we wanted concrete evidence of our love. There had been a time when that love was misplaced, but rest assured, it was never forgotten.//

//Then how can you permit another joining like the one to T'Pring?//

//Beloved, I ask for your trust. Have I ever given you reason to doubt my loyalty or my love? Please, Amanda, for the love of our son, do not go against T'Pau. Especially now.//

//Sarek, what are you not telling me?//

Sarek extended his hand and brushed the moisture away with his fingertips. "Your face is wet, my love." He leaned forward to kiss her.

Amanda pulled back and lowered her head.  "I'll do as ask." Her eyes lifted to meet his. "But, if you hurt Spock again I'll never forgive vou."

"Spock's well being is foremost in my thoughts, beloved. I do not think you will be displeased with our choice."

Sarek wrapped his arm around her waist pulling her closer to him. Their lips touched, renewing their love. Then Sarek led his wife into the other room. <<<<|>>>>

 T'Pau entered Spock's room just before sunrise. She picked up the robe and held it open. Spock finished washing then slipped it on.   "T'Pau, is all of this really necessary?"

"It is," she replied, closing the last clasp at the throat.

"How does it feel?"

Spock took a few steps in the heavily laden robe. "Difficult."

"How do you feel?"

"Does it matter?"

"Yes, it matters. You matter."

"Why? I will fulfill my obligation but nothing more. "

"Indeed thee shall. Come, it is time." <<<<|>>>>

"Leonard, I know we're at Vulcan but how do you plan on gettin' the capt'n down there, without him knowin'?"

"The same way I got him dressed."

"You knocked him out?"

"Scotty, would I do such a thing?"

"If Admiral Grayson gave you orders like he gave me. Then yes, I'd say you'd drugged him."

"Well, it'll have to be our little secret won't it""

"Yeah, you, me and the command crew. It wasn't so easy telling him one thing and doin' a tother."

"Amen to that."

"Ready?"

"Ready!" <<<<|>>>>

Silently T'Pau and Spock walked to the small rotunda at the end of the hallway. At first glance Spock noticed it was a lot older than T'Pau's chamber. The walls were a mirky shade of greyish white.  There were no windows or pictures only black narrow slits about eight inches wide from the floor to the ceiling, with a two foot gap in between. These blanc spaces held the torches that lit the room not only with light but incense as well. The room contained no doors, only an small archway which now stood behind them. Toward the far side of the room small table sat decorated with flowers. To the left of it stood three people and kneeling directly in front of them was his bride. The face was hidden from his view by the oversized dark green jeweled cape. The one standing directly hehind had a hand resting on her shoulder.

 Sarek and Amanda stepped aside permitting T'Pau and Spock to pass. She stopped in front of the table and Spock knelt beside is intended. Amanda straightened Spock's robe, then joined her husband as they stood behind their son. Sarek's hand quickly squeezed Amanda's before letting go.

"This day is to be a joyous one, not just for our family but for all of Vulcan as well. For this day will ensure the continuation of Vulcan's future." T'Pau placed one hand on each bowed head. "Joined together by our tradition, each will honour the other to create a balance. Each will draw strength when faced with difficulties the future will bring. Vulcan has witnessed a great many changes throughout my lifetime.  Some I have disagreed with, others not. Now... I find myself faced with yet another complication. Vulcan must survive and flourish. As must her children. For most, a bonding when they are but seven years of age, is enough. For others, we are forced to revert back to the beginning of time. For these few individuals, the laws of the tribe will be adhered.

"From the House of Solkar, to the House of Skon, to the House of Sarek, to the House of Spock... Life must continue."  T'Pau dropped her hands to the side of her body as she knelt before the couple.  She reached out and took hold of Spock's hand, extending it away from his body and turned it over so that his palm was facing upwards.  Then T'Pau lifted the bride's hand and placed it on top of Spock's. >From the table T'Pau a gold metallic sash and wrapped it around their hands binding them together.

"Those in attendance, witness the acceptance from the House of Sarek as Sarek's son accepts his continuation." From around her neck T'Pau removed an intricate carved zirconium chain upon which hung a large colourless crystal, its centre filled with a clear colourless liquid. Carefully she placed it over Spock's head. Her eyes bore into his. "Tal'kyria will be completed only when the essence of your souls has been captured by the crystal of life."

T'Pau stood.  "Spock, take thy mate to the Chamber of the Life, so thee may complete thy bonding."

The pair stood and did as instructed.  

T'Pau waited until the pair and left. "I believe my sitting room will be a better place to wait for them."

The others followed.

Inside, T'Pau handed her robe to Sarek and had just finished pouring the sixth glass of Sashal.   "Please, join me." T'Pau indicated to the five remaining goblets on the silver tray.

Sarek took the tray and offered the silver cups to everyone.

T'Pau raised her goblet. "A toast, in Terra's custom. To the long life of the newly- bonded couple. To the continuation of Vulcan. And a "Christmas gift" for my daughters." T'Pau nodded her head. It was the signal. Slowly the others reached up and pushed back the large drooping hoods.

"Nicci," was all that Amanda said. She looked at her husband. A thousand questions were in her eyes but not one would be asked. <<<<|>>>>

Spock entered the darkened room. He stood still for a few minutes while his eyes adjusted. As he looked around the room, he again was reminded of pictures he had seen in history books. One torch burned near the door. One torch was enough. Unlike its cousin, this one flame was more than enough to light the room. The flame's flickering light caught the green gems filling the room with fragmented light. Spock's eyes were drawn to the green cast of his wife's robe. The colour reminded him of Kirk's command shirt.

The only piece of furniture in the room was a small table.  The table held two goblets, filled it a reddish liquid. A ceramic bowl and a pitcher filled with scented water. In front of the bowl was a large pile of soft cloths.  The bed, if one could call it that, was a massive pile of le'matya furs. Spock took both goblets and gave one to the other. They drank and returned the goblets to the table. One stood where they were. The other walked over to the 'bed' and stood in front of it.

The liquid did not take long to go through the body. Each felt the wave of fiery-lust consume the body. Nerve ending heightened to an extreme that only consummation of body would extinguish.

Spock removed the chain from around his neck and held the sacred stone in his hand. He watched as the liquid swirled within the glass-like walls.

Where the ancient myths true? Did this crystal posses a magic that would force his katra to blend with another?  Since childhood, he had heard of the mystical Tal'kyrian crystals.  Rumor had it that those fortunate few who were given the crystal on the onset of their first pon farr, their souls would be permanently joined forever. Nothing could force them apart, not even death. Spock looked over at the other. He didn't want this marriage. He didn't even want whoever was under the green robe.  His heart wanted only one person. His soul burned for the only person he could not have. How would his bride accept the knowledge that he burned for a Human? T'Pring had refused him because of that knowledge.

Unconsciously, he gripped the stone tighter. The stone felt hotter the longer he held it.  Although there was no colour change, his body burned beyond anything he had thought possible.

Putting the crystal back around his neck, he quickly shed the sapphire outer shell, letting it crumble at his feet. He stepped aside leaving the robe in a heap on the floor.  

//Damn you, T'Pau!// His mind screamed.

Naked and fully aroused he slowly walked to the other stopped. Spock began to undo the fastenings on the robe and pushed it way from the shoulders. Next he hushed the hood back and let it fall to the ground.

There, directly in front of him stood a very aroused, naked human.

"Jim!" Was the only word he said. It was the only word he was capable of saying.

Why... why had T'Pau done this to him? To them? Why had she forced him to bond with Kirk through the method of Tal'kyrra? Why? For what reason had she deemed it necessary?

He looked at Kirk. The anger he had for T'Pau surged through veins like oxygen feeding an open flame. A flame that burned. His engorged cock leaking like a dam ready to burst.

The longer he stared at Kirk's face, the more his body became a flame. Then Jim did something wonderful. He smiled and leaned forward to kiss him. That's all it took, one kiss and he was lost. His anger left, leaving only love in its wake. Love turned into pride as he realized that T'Pau had accomplished the impossible. James Kirk was now his. James Kirk would always be his.

With this new found steadiness he pulled Kirk into his arms and kissed him as he lowered them to the furs. They kissed each other igniting yet another passion. A need, a need so great that neither realized until it was too late.

When Spock pulled back his pinus was covered in blood. He quickly rose form the bed and cleaned himself, then took wet clothes back to Jim. Gently he turned Jim over to inspect and wash him. He was puzzled when he saw the anus clean and dry.

Kirk felt Spock's confusion within his mind. He turned over and touched Spock's arm. "What's wrong?"

Spock dropped his eyes from Kirk. "I do not understand. I made you bleed yet you show now blood."

Kirk moved his hand to his ass and ran his finger over his rectal cavity. He felt nothing and then saw nothing. "No... Oh no you didn't."

"Didn't what Jim?"

Kirk moved his hand between his legs. The finger-tips probed the area just below his sac and his hand came away blood tinged."

"Jim, I do not understand. I checked, you were undamaged."

 Jim saw the look on Spock's face and started to laugh.

"I see nothing humourous about this situation. I have injured you."

"You have, but not in the way you think. Spock, we are legally married aren't we?"

"We are. T'Pau has made sure."

"Good, because I have something to tell you." He leaned closer and whispered into a beautiful Vulcan ear.

"You're not. Why did you not tell me."

"When? We never got any further than a kiss on the ship. It's not exactly something I tell someone on the first date."

 "Are you... will you be alright."

 "Yes, lover, we'll been fine. Just don't make it a habit."

"I did not know."

"I know, don't worry about it. I'm sure everything will be okay." And then he kissed him.

An then the fire started all over again.

"Oh no, this time I get to be on top!"

After a strenuous workout Jim collapsed on top of his Vulcan lover and slept. Spock, too afraid to wake just held him in his arms

A short time later Jim woke to the glitter of the stone "What's that around your neck?"

Spock took in a deep breath. In a very calm, collective manner he stated. "It is a Tal'kyrian crystal."

"A what?"  

"A Tal'kyrian crystal." Spock moved Jim to his side and sat up. "In ancient times..." Now Kirk was intrigued and he too sat up. "What we went... are going though," He looked at his lover, "this type of bonding ceremony was called "the Tal'kyrian," after the crystal. In ancient times the tribe's leader would induce a state similar to pon farr in the male.  The chosen pair were given a drug,"

"The liquid we drank?"

"Correct."

"Go on Spock, don't keep me in suspense."

"Then do not continue to interrupt." Kirk just smiled. "The drug would increase the body's need for sexual completion. The pair would be forced to bond because of this need...." Spock stopped.

"Go on," urged Kirk

"Jim, please."

"It's okay, I love you too."

"In... In its natural state, Tal'kyira is a clear colourless crystal with a liquid centre. The stone itself grows only in the caverns located in the centre of the Tal'kyrian mountains Its legend dates back to mythical pre-reform Vulcan." Spock held the stone closer to Kirk "A crystal, not unlike this one, was given to the heir apparent of the tribal leader upon his bonding. It is said the kinetic energy produced by the sexual-enhanced couple, during their first copulation, has the power to change the colour. Its colour determines the status of its bearer. Legend has it, that when a joined couple become one entity. The oil in the centre leaves the casing and enters the katra of the bonded pair. It is also said that once the oil touches the katra while the two are joined as one, nothing can separate their souls, not even death...  The legend also states that the spirit of the first to die will flee the body to reside in the one remaining alive. And upon that death the twin souls sleep until they re-united in the body of the next heir apparent."

"Sounds to me a little like reincarnation."

Spock ignored him, "it has also been said that this joined spirit chooses a boy on the fourth eve of his kahs wan."

Kirk was so intregued in the mythical tale that he temporarily forgot his original question.  "Then the son of a tribal chief is not guaranteed to be the next heir."

"That belief has never been changed or challenged throughout our history. It was during my kahs wan that I matured more quickly than at any other time in my life. Until T'Pau placed the crystal around my neck, I had no idea that I was one of the ones chosen."

"Why didn't T'Pau give it to you at your first pon farr?"

"Jim, this is my first pon farr. The challenge over T'Pring weakened my fever. The fever was aborted when I thought I killed you."

"Oh." Kirk was silent for a few minutes before he asked his next question. "Then T'Pring was not your intended bride."

"Evidently."

Kirk felt a wave of Vulcaness enclose around Spock. He reached over to touch Spock's hand. But the Vulcan pulled quickly away. "Spock, now what's wrong?"

Spock fell quiet as he mumbled, "I will not be able to control."

"I don't want you to." Kirk replied with a hint of a smile.

Spock lifted his head and repeated his confession, "Jim, you do not understand."

The tormented look in Spock's eyes almost brought Kirk to tears. "Shut up and kiss me. Better yet, make love to me."

Without warning Spock reached out and put his arms around Kirk, pulling him on top of himself. It wasn't until Spock kissed him that both remembered the crystal. And it wasn't there for long.  Both had heard the 'pop' and felt an electric charge as the crystal disintegrated marring the mid point of their chests.

The moment the crystal popped, a strange tingling of arousal invaded their bodies. As they kissed, their sex filled with life. Fully aroused, one touch was enough to feed the other. Spock rolled Kirk onto his back then lifted his legs over his shoulders. The entry was smooth and painless. Buried deep inside, Spock basked in the love and affection Jim had for him.

Carefully controlling himself, he teased and tormented his love. Slowly, Spock pulled back and forth across the prostrate gland until Kirk begged to be taken.

"Oh God, Spock, stop."

"Stop?"and he did.

"No, you idiot, not stop. Stop toying and fuck me!"

Spock continued his torturous pace, "I am." Spock leaned closer over the body beneath him to kiss the soft pink lips.

"Now, dammit.  Oh... oh, God.. please Spock, now!" Kirk's arms wrapped tightly around Spock as he came. While Spock's semen filled the moist tight cavity, Jim's fluid bonded their bodies together.

Spock collapsed on top of his lover. For half an hour they lay that way. Then Spock rolled to one side and pulled Kirk to his feet. It was only after they stood did Spock remember the crystal. He noticed a red mark right in the middle of Kirk's chest and immediately looked down at his own. The same mark was mirrored on his.

"Jim, we best be moving if we are to find your answer."

"My answer?" Kirk looked at him sideways, "I don't remember what the question was." <<<<|>>>>

"Drink. The wine is quite suitable for Human consumption. Besides it will help to pass the hours, while we wait."

McCoy picked the goblet and sat on only vacant chair. "T'Pau," McCoy started, "perhaps now you will now explain why the need for secrecy?"

"Please?" asked Amanda, "I'd like to know why you thought it necessary for Spock to think..."

"Wife, be patient."

She looked at Sarek, "you knew all along, didn't you?"

"Yes, my wife, I did."

"Why didn't you say something?"

"Because, my love, both I and our son can read you like a book. Spock would have seen through T'Pau's ploy and stopped it."

T'Pau's harsh voice softened, "I regret having to resort to devious ways. If Spock, who prides himself on his Vulcan heritage, had acted upon his Vulcan 'sense of need' during his kal-if-fee with T'Pring, none of this would have been necessary."

"I don't understand I thought T'Pring challenged him," Amanda stated.

"She did because she felt an alien presence in Spock's mind. Anger and jealousy drove T'Pring to use the kal-if-fee. She had hoped to destroy Spock because Spock would not give in to her, after Kirk's simulated death." She looked directly at the still caped visitor. "T'Pring watched Spock regain his control. It was then she knew who the entity was in Spock's mind.

"I challenged Spock on his choice of friends as well as his thoughts. His mind revealed a bonding link; a bonding link which was not with T'Pring. After the challenge Spock gave T'Pring to Stonn. Prior to his departure I touched his thoughts once more. This time I destroyed the confines around his bond link to let the link developed.  After Spock left Vulcan, I contacted Starfleet Command. I spoke to Nicolaus to ask him to get in touch with James Kirk's family and to find out more about the person who had stolen my grandson's heart and soul.  

T'Pau's eyes glanced in Amanda's direction. "Your brother became my eyes and ears. I inquired from him if Spock had made any changes to his status. When the reply was negative I asked him to find out why. Grayson with the aide of McCoy, arranged to bring James' mother here.."  Amanda looked from one to the other, then to the other female in the room. "Sarek, Amanda this is Winona Kirk. James' mother. "

McCoy, on the other hand, sat back, completely enjoying himself. He was beginning to understand just how conniving T'Pau could be.

T'Pau continued. "Two months after T'Pring's fiasco, she realized what she had forfeited. There has already been several attempt on Spock's life. I could not afford another attempt. T'Pring might succeed, especially since she has learned that Spock will attain the position of Head of State."

Sarek interrupted, "T'Pau, you are not certain of that fact. Spock is only one of seven to be tested."

"Sarek, the others have already been tested. Spock is the last. So far, none have produced the official mark."

Winona Kirk was more than a bit confused. "You mean to tell me the next leader of the Vulcan people is determined by a chemical stain caused by a crystal through some archaic sexual practice? Isn't that an unscientific method of choosing Vulcan's monarchy?"

"It is how it has always been." T'Pau replied "I had Grayson do an in-depth study with the oil on Humans.  He discovered the oil contains properties similar to those which are found in your spring water. The liquid has no reaction on Human blood or skin cells."

"If there's no reaction, why would Jim have a mark too?" McCoy asked

Since she had asked for their help, T'Pau felt it fair to explain. "All bonded mates share a blending of souls. It is basic element of Vulcan life. These 'souls', in turn, unite the pair. This unification bonds two separate minds together, producing a single cell-type organism that completes the individual."

"Like in a mind meld?"

"Precisely"

"Well now, that's something those two have shared many times."

T'Pau looked at McCoy. If what he was saying was true, then now, more than ever T'Pau was certain she'd made the right choice. "Then Tal'kyria was the correct choice."

"I don't know about that Tal'kyria stuff. I personally don't think they needed it. Those two have always been two halves of a whole. You wont find one without the other."

T'Pau let the corners of the mouth curl with a slight smile. //Yes, I have done the right thing if what McCoy says is true.//

Amanda was puzzled and turned to her husband. "Sarek, I don't understand."

"What is there not to understand? James is no stranger to us."

"But I thought... that is... you led me to believe..."

"Precisely. If you had known of T'Pau's plan, there was chance that Spock could have learned of it as well.

Engrossed in conversation, no one heard the two enter.

T'Pau's commanding voice answered one of Amanda's unasked questions. "Amanda, life for Spock was never easy. The fact that he joined Starfleet against Sarek's wishes proved that Spock's uniqueness was ill fitted for most Vulcans.  But, like his Father, Spock needed assistance. I have never regretted my interference with Sarek, nor am I likely to regret this manipulation either. Spock had pledged his soul to Kirk years ago. And because of that, pon farr was aborted at the kal-if-fee. But Spock remained unbonded.  His mind did not posses the calming effect provided by the bond. If the flames of plak tau struck before he was fully bonded, he would die. Kirk was, and is, the link for Spock's survival and prior to today, both had done very little to secure that relationship."

Winona had listened quietly until she thought T'Pau was finished. "You mean to tell me that you've married my son under some ancient mumbo-jumbo? I do know that Jim loves Spock. His letters home are full of it. Oh, he didn't actually come out a say it but a mother can read between the lines. I have no objections. I didn't the first time Jim wrote about Spock and I don't now."

Leonard turned to Winona, "How on earth did you manage not to say anything to Jim?"

"I know my Jim. I could say something straight out and there were times when he didn't believe me. So I let him continue to think that way, But, if I thought for one minute this crazy scheme wouldn't work, I would have told T'Pau nine months ago."

It wasn't until Kirk spoke that everyone realized they were in the room.

"Mom, you knew about us?"

"Afraid so, hon."

"And you Sarek, did you also know?"

"I did. Your mother did not."

McCoy beamed with pride. "Someone had to play 'cupid'. For the longest time, both of you were so afraid of hurting the other, that you both ended up making yourselves miserable. Someone had to put an end to it, and it was nice to know I had people backing me up." He gave Kirk a wicked grim, "Captain, sir, you didn't stand a ghost of chance against our team."

"Team... what team? Who else knew?"

"Outside the five of us? Only Scotty and your command team. After assume aftear your bonding is registered here the information will be forwarded to Star Fleet Command..."

"It already has," Admiral Nicolaus Grayson beamed. "I think these two will want to be posted together?"

Kirk looked sideways at Spock then at Grayson. "What do you mean?"

"Jim," Amanda replied, "Bonded mates do not stray far from other. Your bond won't permit it."

Kirk looked puzzled.

T'Pau was pleased. While everyone was talking she prepared two goblets and set them on a tray.

Kirk's facial expression told her all she needed to know.  "Spock, James, Tal'kyria must be verified."

Kirk glanced nervously at everyone.  "What do you mean, verified?"

T'Pau ordered, "Come forth and kneel before me."

Both men did.

"Spock, where is thy crystal?"

"It is broken." Spock replied with a somber voice.

"Show me," she ordered.

Spock opened the top seven clasps on his robe. He looked at Kirk and nodded. The nod of his head was the unspoken command for Kirk to do the same.

"Sarek, Amanda, Nicci, Leonard, Winona, let us all bear witness to these findings together." T'Pau didn't take her eyes of the pair as she spoke.  "Thee have witnessed. And now thee will verify." She lay one hand over each mark. "Sarek, cover thy son, Winona, do likewise with James."

She was puzzled. //What did she mean 'cover thy son'?//

She watched as Sarek lay his right palm on top of T'Pau's hand then she moved to the other side and mirror imaged her palm on Kirk.

T'Pau closed her eyes and in a deep crystalline voice stated, "As it was written, so it will be recorded. The prophecy lives through this bonded pair. They will not only serve each other but Vulcan and Earth alike."

They removed their hands when they felt T'Pau lift hers. The mark had disappeared. Next, her fragile fingers barely touched the side of their faces. But it was enough for her to read both. She removed her fingers and stepped back. "Amanda bring the try." T'Pau took one goblet and handed it to Spock the other she gave to Kirk.

"Spock, James, thee were born from seeds created from love. Thee were taught to nourish and care for that love. Today thee gave that nurtured love to the one who has holds thy spirit. The needs of thy bondmate must be and will be met with the greatest fire of all."

Both drained their glass and handed it back. T'Pau set the goblets on the tray  "The flame of Tal'kyria will forever burn within they souls. Both of thee will be blessed, taught, and guided by those who held the flame before thee. Though some consider it a gift. Others have called it a curse. Thee will know what it means to be Vulcan. The will know what it meas to be Human, for nothing in life comes easily...  Thee both will learn as a children learn. Thee will know pain. Thee will know death, and thee will rejoice in life reborn..." She looked directly at Kirk. "Thee are now a child of Vulcan and as such thee will never be turned away from us." T'Pau turned to Spock. "Spock, thee must continue to teach. To give understanding. To be patient. Never are thee to hold anything against him, for to do so is to hold it against thyself. James Kirk is the other half of your soul as you are his... Born of different worlds, blended into one being.  The Tal'kyrian has given Vulcan's its next ruling monarch." She relaxed and let the pair stand. "Spock, James, Nicci, Leonard, Sarek, Amanda, Winona, before we leave for the celebrational feast, there is one thing l would like to add. This is not Vulcan nor does it have anything to do with Vulcan. It is Terran. And a gift I sincerely hope you will all enjoy. Spock and James, my grandsons, it is to each of you that I give this gift for Christmas." Then she left the room.

"Well, I be dammed," Grayson started. "I didn't think the old goat had it in her?"

The others just laughed as Sarek stated. "We see both at the evening meal. Then he herded the other out of the room. <<<<|>>>>

When the bonded couple was finally alone.

"Spock, what the hell was in the wine?"

"Christmas."

"Smart ass. What was in the wine!"

"Nothing."

"The hell there wasn't! I've never been this aroused."

"Then I suggest you screw me right here and now to remove the pressure, or-"

"Or what?"

"Or you will be quite uncomfortable for the walk home."

"Is that a threat?"

"No, beloved, it is a promise."

"Oh yeah?"

Spock drew Kirk into a loving embrace. As he caressed Jim's lips with a barrage of soft tender kisses he sent a sensual touch across their bond. Jim's already hard erection twitched.

"Oh god, Spock.... Please..." Kirk pleaded. "Please, I can't... it hurts ... I hurt so... I burn beloved. Oh God I've never felt like this before....Please, Spock, please let me make love to you."

Spock led his beloved back to the bed of furs. Then Spock rolled Kirk on top of him. Tenderly he kissed the cool Human lips until they parted, giving him permission to enter. Their tongues dance around inviting the flames to burn brighter. Spock kept it up until Kirk's instincts took over. Once sated, Spock broke the kiss long enough to roll Jim into his back, then he positioned Jim's legs over his shoulders. Slowly, guiding his erection into tight cavern in Kirk's body until it was completely sheathed within him.

"Oh god, that feels so good."

"Our bond words both ways, beloved."

"What are you talking about?"

"Jim, I too, feel your body's pleasure."

"Oh yeah? Well, you better start doing something and soon."

"Is that an order?" Spock pulled his hips back and them slammed home again.

"Shit....No. Spock, damn you. Stop teasing and fuck me."

Spock eagerly obeyed, but not before saying, "I believe the correct saying is, "Merry Christmas, Darling"."

"I'll get you for that."

ND