#THE GALAXY CHANGING THING THAT SPOCK WAS GOING TO DO INVOLVED MEETING KIRK

[bird-in-a-fish-cage]

THINKING ABOUT HOW PIKE FINDS OUT THAT LA'AN IS A CAPTAIN NOW AND HE IS SO PROUD OF HER AND IT FUCKING SHOWS ON HIS FACE LIKE EGFARAHGUEFGIEUFCGWBEIFGJHQEBCFHJEBC YOU A DAD

[snark-sass]

No I'm not dating him, I want to marry you -FIC

Read on aO3 here!

Fluffy fic in which Spock wants to ask Kirk to be his bondmate (even though they’re not dating), goes to McCoy for help, and Jim somehow think’s Spock and mcCoy are dating.

Spirk fic with a happy ending! 6k (I imagined TOS when writing but would fit into either)

Spock stood outside of Captain Kirk’s door.

Spock would say, that were he human, the disequilibrium he was experiencing would be called ‘nerves’. It was fortunate that he was in fact Vulcan, and he understood the reaction his body was autonomously having was the ever logical one of ‘fight or flight’. It was after all, advantageous for one’s body to prepare itself in times of stress, or in this case anticipated stress, in order to best ensure survival.

However, what was less logical was the fact that this response had been triggered by Spock simply standing in front of the Captain’s door, preparing for a conversation. Not a fight, not anything else that this response would aid in, but a conversation.

They were 3.72 years into their 5 year mission when Spock had decided that he would, after much consideration, speak to Jim about becoming bondmates. It was, after all, logical.

Had they been courting? Well, not explicitly in the sense the one of them had asked the other if they would like to advance their relationship to that of a romantic one. But, they had been spending copious amounts of time together, eating meals together, partaking in leisure activities together, and even spending shore leave in each other’s company. Yes, Jim had even convinced Spock to actually use some of his leave. They did all of this not because they were obligated as a command team, but for the pleasure of being with one another. Spock doubted that any verbal declarations would have changed the amount of time spent together.

They had gained intimate knowledge of each other’s lives, goals, preferences, and everything else one would when courting.

More importantly though, they had extraordinarily compatible minds.

Spock had known this since he had melded with Jim in Janice Lester’s body. It was the deepest meld Jim and him had ever participated in. Had the situation not been dire, Spock would have extended it just to keep feeling the rightness and belonging that the meld had woven into its very core.

Was it unfortunate that such a beautiful meeting of minds happened under such circumstances? Yes. Did it change the face that Spock wanted to be one with that mid forever? Not at all.

He held this knowledge in his mind even as his hands began to perspire. It truly was fascinating, if not inconvenient at times, what the body could be capable of even under the misconception of threat.

Spock reminded himself that the chance of threat behind that door, barring any unusual circumstances, was practically non-existent. Well, physical danger at least. There was always the risk to the social, personal and professional aspects of his life. Losing one of his closest friends, having charges filed against him for harassment, those types of things.

No big deal.

Spock was aware that humans completely different standards when it came to relationships, and devoting themselves to one another. What exactly they were however? Unknown. His research on the matter had been conflicting and inconclusive at best. Given his lack of first-hand experience on top of this, he was left with the novel feeling of feeling underprepared.

This unknown factor is what Spock concluded to the cause of his state. Unfortunately, there were not specific research papers on Jim. If so, they would have been far more useful than the perplexing papers he had read, he reflected.

Then it occurred to him; he could seek advice specifically about Jim. Not from research databases, but from interviewing someone who would know.

Spock was hesitant to make his goals known, however. He did not wish it to become common knowledge lest he be subjected to increased amounts of interpersonal conversations, or he dreaded to think, widespread pity if it did not work out.

No, he would keep it to as few people as possible to minimise this risk

.

Given the parameters, the choice was obvious. He would consult Dr. McCoy on the matter and determine the best method to ask the Captain the be his bondmate. By his currently calculations, they could be bondmates in no more than 14 days due to their high compatibility, even factoring in extra time for Jim’s human needs.

Yes, he thought, noticing his body’s response already calming as he turned away from Jim’s door and towards sickbay, this is the optimal course of action.

Perhaps they may even be able to bond sooner based on the Doctor’s advice.

 *---*---*

Dr McCoy looked up from the paperwork he was working on in an otherwise deserted med bay as Spock walked in.

“Spock,” he smiled up at him “What brings you to my medbay at this time of night? Last I heard, even Vulcans need to sleep sometimes.” He looked Spock up and down and frowned “In fact, I’d bet good credits you’ve never voluntarily come down here at this time of night. You’re not dying again are you?” he asked narrowing his eyes slightly.

 Spock hesitated for a moment, the same feelings from earlier returning in a weaker form.

 “I have come to seek advice on a personal matter, Doctor.” Spock replied.

 Now, instead of reassuring the Doctor as it should have, Dr McCoy looked alarmed “You are dying, aren’t you!?” He stood up and started trying to usher Spock to a bed “Is it a Vulcan disease? It can’t Ponn Farr again, you’re not due for another six years! Unless it’s your dammed hybrid biology – one half Vulcan in the galaxy and I get them on my ship!” He said rather rapidly, giving up trying to move Spock and pulling out a scanner, running it up and down Spock’s body then and there.

 “Doctor,” Spock interrupted “I am not dying any more than I was at our last check up, where I remind you I was subjected to a high number of unnecessary tests. All of which came back within acceptable levels.” He paused and recentred himself “And I most certainly am not experiencing my time. If I were I assure you, I would be consulting a Vulcan healer about the matter, not relying on your potions.”

 McCoy went and sat back in his chair. “Well don’t you know how to make someone feel warm and fuzzy.” He drawled. “Alright, if you’re not here for a medical reason, what are you here for?”

 Spock contemplated the best wording of his request.

 “I find I am lacking the appropriate courting experience in order to secure a human bondmate.”

 McCoy’s expression didn’t change. In fact he didn’t seem to be moving at all.

 “As a human who has had some past successes when courting, and are familiar with the process involved you are a clear source from which to seek advice.” He paused before adding “I also find myself with… few individuals I am familiar enough with to seek advice about the matter.” Spock finished.

 McCoy blew air out of his mouth. “Well I’ll be, are you saying Mr. Spock that you’ve come to me for advice about emotions? <em>Romantic </em> emotions?” he finished gleefully.

 “I believe that is what I just stated” said Spock, doubting his decision more by the second.

 “So who’s the lucky lady?” McCoy asked, looking far too excited by the turn in conversation for Spock’s liking.

 “I do not believe I stated the person of interest was a woman, Doctor.” Spock replied evenly. “The person in question in fact identifies as male.”

 McCoy looked thoughtful at this “A man huh? Must say, when it comes to men I don’t have a lick of experience Spock. You could try asking Jim thought. I know he has a reputation for a ladies man, but he’s fallen for his share of gentlemen.”

 Spock willed his face to stay neutral.

 “I cannot ask the Captain, as it is him I am here to discuss.”

 “Jim? You want to seduce Jim!?” Now McCoy was shocked. It must be exhausting having so many emotions so quickly considered Spock.

 “My God man, could you have picked a more impossible target?” Asked McCoy. “you know he’d never risk his command by getting involved with someone on the ship.”

 “I am aware of Captain Kirk’s strict adherence the Starfleet regulations in relation to section 3.4. However, relationships are allowed between officers within one rank of each other, meaning that our relationship would not be in any violations.” He stated as though he was insulted McCoy hadn’t thought he’d already considered this, “Originally my plan was to approach Captain Kirk after the conclusion of the mission. However, the mission on Centaris II has made me revaluate this plan. As you humans put it ‘tomorrow is not guaranteed’.”

 McCoy deflated at little at this. Centaris II had been a disaster of a mission, ending with Jim getting shot in the chest with bark by sentient trees. The bark pieces had splintered in his chest, requiring hours of extensive surgery. The Captain had come to dying a few times the following days, and even McCoy wasn’t sure if he’d pull through.

 “I suppose that’s even truer on this death trap of a tin can.” McCoy said “Fine, I’ll help you on your fool’s quest. God knows anyone who has a chance at happiness should take it. And Jim, well if anything these last few years have shown it’s that his heart is yearning something awful. You sure you’re up to filling it?”

 This conversation was going quite differently than Spock had anticipated, but McCoy was Jim’s friend he reminded himself. It would be more unusual if he wasn’t concerned for his wellbeing. He had also agreed to help Spock reminded himself. Going through one, albeit greatly uncomfortable, conversation with McCoy was surely a small price to pay for the benefit he would gain.

 “Doctor, I believe that Jim and I would complete each other wholly, incomparably, and for a lifetime. I would not be pursuing him, potentially jeopardising a relationship I value, and a career I have spent years building, otherwise.” He pointed out.

 “Why, that was almost romantic.” teased McCoy, “So tell me, what have you got so far?”

 “‘Got’?“ asked Spock.

 “What have you thought of so far for wooing our Captain?” Asked McCoy.

 “My current plan is simple: I will approach the Captain while he is unaccompanied in his Cabin, advise him that our minds are highly compatible, and suggest we bond at his earliest convenience. I will then of course tell him that I am amendable to a human ceremony of his choosing should he wish to have one.” Spock felt that his agreement to a human celebration particularly demonstrated his dedication and forethought that had gone into his plan, and acknowledgment of Jim’s potential needs as a human.

 Yes, he would be an excellent spouse to Jim, he was sure.

 McCoy responded to his plan by placing his face in his hands.

 “I hope you’ve got nothing on anytime soon, we’ve got a lot of work to. Now where did I put that Surian Brandy…”

   *---*---*

 Spock left well into the Enterprise’s ‘night’, much later than he anticipated. True to McCoy’s word, they indeed had covered a lot. Not only about Jim, but about human courtship norms in general.

 Spock was grateful that he had chosen to speak to McCoy, given that according to McCoy his original plan would have ‘given Jim a heart attack’ with shock.

The new plan that Spock and McCoy had agreed on was that Spock would subtly show his interest in a relationship with Jim, ensure this interest was reciprocated, then ask him on a ‘date’.

 Then the doctor had given Spock most unpleasant advice: he suggested that they date for a year before proposing bonding. At least a whole standard year.

 He hadn’t changed his opinion even though Spock had explained that Vulcans were able to know within days if someone would make a satisfactory bondmate, and that it was not uncommon for less than a week’s notice before a ceremony.

 McCoy had laughed so hard about ‘calling humans emotional when Vulcans get married in less than a week!’ that Spock briefly worried about the amount of oxygen he was getting.

 McCoy had pointed out that Jim was not Vulcan, so it was not logical to use Vulcan standards.

 Still, Spock privately thought that he could at least consider asking Jim in half of that time, but decided the Doctor did not need to know that small fact. He did not wish to be subjected to another lecture; Dr McCoy had a surprisingly unyielding view on the matter.

 Spock turned the last corner into the hallway containing his quarters, only to see the object of his desire exiting his room donned in nothing but his red workout pants and a white t-shirt. Spock briefly wondered who had approved those pants as appropriate to be regulation. Clearly they had not anticipated how Captain J. T. Kirk would obscenely fill them when they had, nor the effect on his first officer.

 “Spock!” said the Captain, clearly not expecting to see him “Fancy seeing you here at this hour. Aren’t having any trouble sleeping are you?” he smiled empathetically.

 “Negative Sir, as Vulcans require less sleep that humans I will have sufficient time to rest before Alpha shift tomorrow.” Spock stated.

 Remembering what McCoy had explained about using compliments to express one’s interest, Spock followed with “Your dedication to your on-going fitness is commendable, Captain.”

 Jim laughed as though Spock had told a joke.

 “Thank you Mr. Spock, but I’m afraid my dedication does not usually extend to working out at one o’clock in the morning.”

 “I assume that is why you are going at 1:18am instead.” Spock stated, tilting his head slightly so Jim would know he wasn’t serious.

 This resulted in another small laugh from Jim.

 “I’m glad you understand.” Jim was looking at him with a small smile, his eyes crinkling as he looked up at him.

 Spock noted with some pride that Jim smiled when talking to Spock at a 23% higher frequency on average than he did when speaking with other officers. Another reason their bonding would be logical.

 “Say, since we’re both up how about a few rounds on the mats? Maybe this time I’ll manage to get at least one pin.” Jim teased.

 “The odds are not absolute 0.” teased Spock back, “Regretfully, I have just finished a rather long meeting with Dr. McCoy and require both mediation and sleep before my next shift in order to preform at peak efficiency.”

 Jim’s smile had now been replaced with a frown. “A meeting at this hour? Is everything ok Spock?”

 Spock was quick to reassure him “I am of optimal health Captain, the encounter was personal between myself and Dr McCoy.”

 Jim did not seem reassured by this. In fact, his face now had a peculiar expression that Spock did not know how to characterise.

 “You… and Bones?” he asked slowly, as though trying to solve an equation with only half the data. “I uh, didn’t realise the two of you had gotten that close.”

 Spock thought about the time spent speaking with McCoy. It was the longest they had ever spent in each other’s company without any third parties. The Doctor had been uncharacteristically patient towards Spock, and even shared some of his own history that Spock was certain one would not share with anyone but a particularly close friend.

 “Tonight was a notable change in our relationship, yes.” Spock said after a few seconds of thought.

 “Right.” Said Jim in an odd tone “Good. You and the good Doctor, that’s good.” He blinked at Spock “I’m surprised but happy. Happy for you both!” he said the last bit considerably too loudly given their respective distance and the relative silence of the hall.

 Spock was growing more concerned for the Captain by the second.

 “Are you alright, Jim? I believe Doctor McCoy is still awake if you require him.”

 Jim took a second before he seemed to shake himself out of his strange behaviour.

 He gave Spock a smile that this time Spock did know how to characterise; it was one that Jim gave to diplomats he wasn’t quite sure how to deal with. It was the first time Spock had been on the receiving end, and he was finding it disconcerting.

 “Great idea, I think I will go check in with Bones.” He stepped to the side to pass Spock “I’ll see you on the bridge tomorrow. Sleep well, Commander.”

 “Goodnight, Captain.” Spock replied as Jim walked away.

 Spock continued his journey to his quarters, the conversation adding more to his list to mediate on. He hoped after speaking with McCoy, Jim would get adequate rest before alpha shift. It would not do for him to act like this on shift.

 *---*---*

 Hours later, Spock could only conclude that Jim had not in fact gotten sufficient rest the night before.

 It was the most likely explanation he could think of to explain the captain’s peculiar behaviour during Alpha shift.

 Jim had varied between staring at Spock for a 21.67% longer duration than normal, yet resolutely not looking at towards Spock at a 35.43% lower frequency than on average. Why Jim was looking at Spock longer but less often, he could not surmise. Further, when Dr McCoy had come to the bridge he had been downright antsy when talking to him. Overall, Jim’s behaviour had been well outside of normal levels of deviation.

 After the shift had ended, rather than waiting for Spock and going to lunch together, he had insisted on Spock going ahead while he ‘discussed these readings with Chekov’ even though Ensign Chekov had told him about the readings only 42 minutes earlier. The notably insignificant readings.

 So here Spock was, trying to find an empty table to eat lunch alone for the first time in over a year.

 Speaking of unusual, McCoy seemed to have arrived earlier to lunch than Spock for once, and was already sitting at an empty table. He waved Spock over, and Spock slid onto the bench across from him.

 “Just the Vulcan I wanted to see!” McCoy said in lieu of a proper greeting “You’re going to happy when I tell you what your great pal Leonard did last night!” The Doctor himself did not necessarily look happy, but perhaps he was scowling less than normal when Spock looked closer. That was about equivalent to a smile for him Spock supposed.

 “As I have reminded you repeatedly, ‘happiness’ is a human emotion, and I am Vulcan. Perhaps you should consider getting your memory tested, lest it affects your work.” Spock raised an eyebrow a little.

 “My memories not the problem there. Anyway,” he said, waving his sandwich alarmingly close to his hair “What I was going to tell you was that after our little chat last night, Jim came and saw me. I was the best wingman you’d ever seen.” He triumphantly took a bite of his wayward sandwich at that declaration.

 “‘Wingman’?” enquired Spock.

 McCoy shot him a suffering look “I talked you up to Jim.”

 This Spock understood, although he tried not to look too interested in what McCoy was saying, feeling a lightness rising in his chest.

 “Indeed?” he asked, “Do you consider you were successful?” he leaned forward slightly in order to hear better, as the mess was slightly too loud for optimal hearing.

 Obviously that was the reason, it was not because he was eager to hear more. Not at all.

 McCoy chose to believe he was eager nevertheless, judging by him looking smugger by the moment.

 “Was I successful? By the end Jim was saying that any man would be lucky to have you. Even started bringing his own compliments to the table.” McCoy leaned back in his chair having reached peak smugness levels.

 Spock’s heart rate had increased fractionally. Gaining McCoy as an ally was having better results than he had anticipated, Jim would be his bondmate before the year was up, he was sure of it.

 “I reckon you’re in.” McCoy went on “Now do me a favour and ask him to dinner so I can get my damn nose out of your love life."

 “Based on last evening I was under the impression you were enjoying ‘having your nose’ in my love life?” Spock teased smoothly.

 “I’m uh, not interrupting, am I?” asked Jim in a joking voice having finally arrived for lunch. He had yet to sit down at the mostly empty table.

 McCoy looked between them “I was just leaving, Jim” McCoy picked up his empty tray “He’s all yours.” McCoy clapped Jim on the shoulder as he left, ignoring Jim’s lips thinning minutely at his parting remark.

 Spock noticed McCoy shooting him what humans would refer to as a ‘significant look’ as Jim was sliding into the now vacant seat. When Spock didn’t acknowledge him, he clearly mouthed ‘ask him!’ and obviously pointed at Jim.

 Humans were unobservant, Spock reminded himself, it was highly unlikely that anyone had noticed. Even if he was now getting a few curious looks thrown his way. Why had he thought seeking out Dr. McCoy would be valuable, again? Clearly his fight or flight reaction had impacted his thoughts at the time.

 “So, are you and the good Doctor…?” Jim said after poking his food a few times, without actually eating it.

 When it became clear that Jim was not going to finish his sentence Spock asked “What about the Doctor and I, Captain?”

 “It’s just still surprising is all. You, him, together.” Jim was staring hard at his untouched food seemingly finding it very interesting.

 Jim’s words were not making sense. While McCoy and Spock might not spend as much time together as Spock and Jim did, it was surely wasn’t that unorthodox that it warranted commentary. They were after all friends. Surely it was not usual for friends to eat meals together? Even if McCoy did only usually joined them around the end of meal time, and almost never the start.

 “I fail to see what is surprising.” Spock said.

Jim actually blushed “I suppose you wouldn’t. If anyone heard the way he was speaking about you last night, I doubt they would be surprised either. I don’t think I’ve ever heard Bones speak so highly of anyone.” He finally looked up at Spock, through his eyes only visible through his eyelashes “Not that it was undeserved, of course”.

 How could Spock had been worried that Jim would reject him outright last night? Even if he wasn’t interested in Spock romantically there was no reason to assume he would scorn Spock, or humiliate him by spreading the news throughout the ship. At the very least, Jim was a kind man.

 “I’m glad you think so, Jim.” Spock softened his look in return “Perhaps if you are amendable we could have dinner followed by a game of chess? It has been 4 days since our last match. Unless of course your last three losses has gotten you to admit defeat?”

 Jim was fully looking up now, looking at Spock with eyes crinkling at the corners as he smiled. He huffed out a small amount of air in what Spock recognised as a sign of amusement. “Not a chance Mister, how about I come around at 18:00 when I’m finished in engineering?”

 “That would be acceptable.” Replied Spock, not breaking eye contact.

 They continued to hold each other’s gaze for a few more seconds, until the moment was broken by a loud laugh from a nearby table.

 Jim blinked to himself before frowning down at the table.

 “I just remembered I’ve got some reports that need finishing before I’m due in engineering. I’ll see you tonight, Spock.” At that Jim took his tray and made a hasty exit.

 “Until tonight.” Said Spock quietly, watching Jim go.

 *---*---*

 At 17:55 Spock was observing his quarters quite proudly.

 McCoy had told Spock that, candles, low lights and soft music were often used to ‘set the mood’ for Terran dates. Given Starfleet’s ban on open flames on space vessels, displaying candles was not possible. Instead, Spock had opted to use some of his more potent smelling incense, in order to create a pleasant scent throughout the cabin. The lights had been set to a low 15%, giving the cabin an intimate feel. The low light allowed for the starlight to shine through the port window, casting large ever-changing shadows from all the furniture onto the green carpet. Jim often commented on his affection for the stars, he was sure to appreciate that. Lastly, to finish the scene, Spock had put on some music. The only music he had available was Vulcan Lyre music, which played half a piece, with which he would practice duets with. Despite being slightly disjointed alone, Spock felt the overall effect to the ‘mood’ was given.

 Yes, he had indeed created a prime setting for courting Jim. His human courting skills were progressing quite nicely in such a short time.

 At 17:57 the door chimed, signalling someone requesting entry. There was only one person it was likely to be. Spock took a deep breath, readying himself for the evening to come.

 “Open.”

 Sure enough, there was Jim. He looked like he did for all their chess matches; dressed still in his command uniform, yet with his posture more relaxed then when in public. Still, looking at him Spock felt that something was… off. He looked relaxed, but although he was determined to be rather than naturally being so.

 He also had brought a bottle of wine, which was markedly different from any previous matches. Usually, Jim only drank alcohol in the presence of Dr. McCoy or Lieutenant Scott. Seldom did he drink alcohol in Spock’s presence, and certainly he had never brought any when they were due to socialise alone.

Spock took this as a positive sign.

 “I apologise for being slightly early Spock, I can come back after you’ve finished meditating if you’d like.” He offered, taking in the room. He stepped forward enough to allow the door to close “I must admit, I’ve never noticed just how strong Vulcan’s liked their incense until now.”

 “Is it... displeasing?” Spock was now feeling less confident than before.

 “A touch too strong for my human nose I’m afraid.” Jim said chuckling.

 “Ah,” said Spock heading to extinguish them “I will keep that in mind for future, Captain.”

 Jim chuckled “ ‘Captain?’ it’s been a while since you’ve called me that in private.” Spock couldn’t see Jim, but he could practically visualise the soft smile that would follow such a statement.

 “It reminds me of the early days, before we really got to know one another. Seems like so long ago now.” Spock heard him pacing around the room.

 “Say, would you mind if I turned up the lights a bit? I doubt I’ll be able to see the board properly in this light. Unless, of course that is your plan to ensure a victory.” He finished lightly.

 “Of course, Jim. I am not the one who needs an advantage, after all.”

 “Oh, you’ll be regretting those words by the end of our first game!” Jim said playfully, heading towards the table while ordering the lights to 75%.

 As the lighting slowly increased, Spock observed that the ‘mood’ no longer seemed significantly different from any other night. At least the music seemed to be acceptable.

 For now.

 “Wine?” queried Jim.

 Spock heard the clinking of glasses form the small kitchenette his quarters were equipped with, indicating Jim was already pulling out more than one glass.

“Perhaps one glass.” responded Spock, more for Jim’s sake than any actual desire on his part.

 Incense all finally extinguished, Spock stood and headed to the edge of the kitchen area while Jim poured a generous portion of wine. A really generous portion.

 “I thought that we could celebrate,” said Jim passing Spock a less generously filled glass, “I will admit, I was quite stunned at first by the news,” he smiled in a way that did not quite reach his eyes “But you and Bones are my closest friends. If being in a relationship is what makes you happy then I couldn’t be happier for you both.” He raised his glass. “To a long and happy relationship!”

 Spock’s glass did not move an inch from where he had grasped it initially.

 In fact, Spock’s whole body was doing a rather impressive imitation of a statue. This was in direct contrast to his internal thoughts, which were going a mile a minute trying to work out what exactly was happening.

 When Spock had imagined possible scenarios of tonight, this had not even been close to one of them.

 “Spock?” asked Jim. He seemed very concerned. Very concerned for McCoy’s boyfriend.

 “You believe that myself and Dr. McCoy are engaged in a romantic relationship?” Spock asked at a 18.4% slower speed than normal.

 Jim still looked sheepish “I know neither of you have officially announced anything yet, and that it’s still very new,” said Jim “But I just…” he looked at his wine as though it held the answers to what he was trying to say “You’re important to me Spock. You both are.” He added the last part quickly “and even though…” he stopped again “If Bones is who you want, then I will do everything I can to be a good friend and support you.” He had a determine look on his face, one Spock had seen many times before particularly unpleasant activities in missions.

 And it was now being used in reference to Spock’s love life.

 How could this have all gotten misinterpreted so badly? Of course Jim wasn’t interested in Spock, if not he wouldn’t be so clearly supporting him in his fictional romance with McCoy. Clearly he viewed Spock with nothing but friendship. Deep friendship, yes, but clearly also platonic friendship.

 It was Terran courting Spock was sure. Its unclear, ambiguous, and unreasonably time-consuming ways had led to this moment. No, the Terran approach were not the solution.

 “Dr McCoy and I are not in a romantic or physically intimate relationship.” Informed Spock, shifting into what would be parade rest if not for the wine he was still holding.

 Jim blinked “You’re not?”

 “No,” Spock continued “I approached him to get his advice on Terran courting practices. Given his familiarity with them and human emotions, I concluded that he may be of assistance. It appears I was incorrect.” The feelings that had started this whole mess were starting to reappear.

Only this time, Spock chose fight.

 “Jim,” he placed his glass down facing Jim fully, noting Jim follow suit, “Over the past 3.76 years our personal and professional relationship has grown profoundly. This growth has been due to our mutual respect for one another, our mutual interests and goals, and highly compatible personalities.”

 “Oh my God.” Said Jim looking at Spock with wonder.

 “This, as well as our remarkably high mental compatibility, leads to me to conclude that we would be ideal mates for each other.”

 “Oh my God.” Said Jim slightly louder this time, eyes still not leaving Spock.

 “I understand as a human, physical compatibility is also of great importance, and I assure you there I have considered this and in addition to your other attributes I find you to be extremely aesthetically pleasing. I would quite enjoy engaging in intimate, physical activities with you.”

 “<em>Spock</em>.” Jim choked out, looking at him with wide eyes and pink cheeks.

 “I wish to bond with you at your earliest convenience, however I also recognised that humans need more time than Vulcans before committing to another permanently. In light of this, I ask you to consider ‘dating’ me so I may have the chance to convince you of our compatibility, and of my esteem for you.” Spock finished.

 There. It was done. He had laid out his points, logically yet while still acknowledging Jim’s different needs as a human. He was very glad no one else was here to hear his blatant emotionalism at the end of his speech.

 “What is your reply, Jim?” asked Spock after 43.3 seconds. Surely this was more than enough time to concede to the logic of his statements?

 “I think I need to sit down” was Jim’s reply, going to the small couch close by and sinking down. After a few seconds, he moved to place his right leg over his left, and his arm so his chin was supported by one hand. A tell-tale pose for when the captain was thinking deeply on the bridge.

 Perhaps not enough time then.

 Spock carefully sat down on the other end of the couch and waited.

Jim opened his mouth several times in the succeeding minutes as though he was going to speak, before changing his mind. On the sixth time of such occurrence he finally settled on asking “You want to marry me?”

 “Yes.” Said Spock

 “You think it would be logical to marry me?” asked Jim again.

 “Yes.” Said Spock again, wondering how many times he was going to have to confirm information he had said less than 5 minutes ago.

 “That’s great… great.” Said Jim slowly, moving both hands to his chin.

 Despite his words, it did not sound ‘great’ felt Spock.

 Jim turned so his whole body was facing towards Spock, uncrossing his legs and leaning forwards.

 “Spock, you’re proposing marriage between us, yet you seem to be missing one very important factor: love.”

 He leaned even closer. Spock could see the smaller flecks of green and gold in his eyes, and the starlight reflecting from the window. He could smell the wine on his breath, and also a small hint of something pleasant that must come from Jim himself.

Spock swallowed.

 “Your points are logical as always Spock, but do you love me?” asked Jim softly.

 Jim’s face was very close, his stare was intense. Spock tilted his head as he considered the question.

 Had anyone else been asking, his response would be to reply that it was well known Vulcans do not love. But Spock would not lie to Jim, not about something so obviously important to him.

Did he love Jim? There was no one else he was closer to on the Enterprise, or off it for that matter. He had changed his schedule to allow for more time in each other’s presence, he enjoyed their time together and even looked forward to it. Even if they were simply completing their own work in the same space, it still filled Spock with a sense of contentedness. Jim made an effort to take Spock’s Vulcan heritage into account, yet Spock never felt he was being judged as too human, nor too Vulcan around Jim. He was accepted, just as he was. He felt relaxed around Jim, a feeling of satisfaction even. When a mission, or an experiment went wrong he realised he sought out Jim’s company.

He thought about waking up next to Jim, seeing his eyes soften as he smiled at Spock. The image alone filled Spock with warmth. Perhaps Jim would hold up two fingers, which Spock would respond with his own; their fingers would kiss, and their minds would sing to each other with unity, with fondness, with lo-

 Oh.

 “Yes.” Said Spock now realising how true it was “Yes, I do, Jim.”

 Spock braced himself. The ball was in Jim’s court, as his mother would say.

 Jim leaned back a short distance. “Did you know Spock, the except for your biological time, I didn’t even think that you could feel for someone like that?” he asked.

Spock summised this was rhetorical when he continued speaking before he could reply.

 “Then I spoke to Bones,” said Jim, “and he told me about how thoughtful you were, how generous you were, how romantic you were. And it hit me: dating you, being with you, being allowed to love you every day, that would be the most amazing thing anyone could ask for. I felt like kicking myself because I thought I had missed my chance!”

 Jim picked up Spock’s hand and held it between his own.

 “Going from that to you telling me that you want to marry me is quite the leap.”

Spock was glad he had the contact, in contrast to Jim’s words he could pick up feelings of happiness, and hope, emotions that were mirroring his.

 Jim moved closer, so that their noses were practically touching.

 Spock heard him chuckle lowly, “When have you ever known me not to risk leaping, Mr. Spock?”

 “Never.” Whispered Spock, breathing a puff of air against Jim’s lips.

 Jim slipped his eyes close, closing the space between them.

 Spock had not experienced many human-style kisses, but this was by the best by far. There was no disregard for Spock’s wants, or madness behind it. Jim kissed him as though he had all the time in the world. As though Spock was beloved, and Jim was using his lips to softly explain to him just how much. Spock knew he was inexperienced in this kind of affection, but he hoped Jim understood that he was trying to show him how cherished Jim was in return.

 The message must have gotten through somehow, because when they parted Jim placed his forehead against Spock’s, keeping his eyes closed. His smile was small, intimate. It was beautiful.

 Eventually Jim opened his eyes and looked at Spock, the smile never leaving his face.

 “You know, I’m not sure what you’ve heard, but it takes at least 3 dates before I agree to marry someone.” He said, eyes twinkling.

 “Indeed?” replied Spock, allowing his mouth to soften into a small smile in return, “By Dr. McCoy’s description of a ‘date’ we have been on approximately 237 by my count.”

 Jim brought Spock’s hand up to his mouth kissing his knuckles “Is that right?” he said as Spock’s breath hitched “Well, it seems we’re behind on a few 3rd date milestones then.”

 Oh yes, Jim was indeed a logical bondmate. Spock’s logical bondmate.

[benikoumori]

The Fate of the Phoenix 37

CHAPTER XVIII   KIRK listened while Spock translated the Commander’s full message. Security cameras in her kinsman’s house showed that Trevanian had worn James’ mask against an intruder: Spock, or his double. Trevanian had fought the intruder, who wore a Federation Star Fleet uniform. Trevanian was mortally wounded, and James had gone after him. The Commander had gone after both of them, with the Commander-in-Chief in hot pursuit. Her kinsman had been required to surrender the damning security films to the Commander-in-Chief.   And the Doyen’s fleet was converging from another direction, having heard the report that the Prince and his kinsman were missing.   Spock looked at Kirk grimly. “Permission to take a fast scoutship, Captain.”   “Denied,” Kirk said.   And in fact there was no way even by fast scout to reach the scene of the action in tune to be of any use. And yet—Kirk would have to try.   Kirk looked at Omne carefully. “A joint expedition. The two of us?”   “We have an engraved invitation,” Omne said. "I know where my Other will go. The Anomaly.”   “The Anomaly is a death trap,” Kirk said. “Even the Romulans haven’t claimed it.”   “Precisely. It is the one break in the Neutral Zone border, claimed and patrolled by neither side, since too many ships were lost there. Therefore potentially quite valuable. I tested it with probes long ago and found the one way into the star system and planet at its center. The planet is a killer, with a vortex of the Anomaly at its heart. Its gravity exceeds Vulcan’s and its geophysical conditions are extremely variable and dangerous, but parts of it are marginally habitable. I have a base there.”   “But wouldn’t the Other know that you would expect him to go there—and therefore avoid it?”   “That is why it is an engraved invitation. He wants us there, where he hopes to settle with all of us. It is why he would go to take James. Trevanian is a bonus. Or perhaps he always intended to take both. Trevanian in his hands will split the Empire wide open.”   “Then shouldn’t he get clear—run for the border?” Kirk said.   “No choice about that,” Omne said. “Captain, have you not wondered how my Other could have done his work at the reception without detection, and then reached into the Empire so quickly? I know you have wondered how I have managed what you have called the ‘Flying Dutchman’ effect, to be everywhere at once.”   The figures, times, distances suddenly clicked in Kirk’s head. “You’ve done it,” he said. “What every expert has said was impossible. A transporter ship…”   "Two,” Omne said. “The capacity to transport the whole of a Phoenix ship is limited by extreme power requirements. But it is useful. My Other will have used that capacity up going in, as we will. He will be on ordinary warp drive now, and will have to refuel at my base. He will make a virtue of necessity and meet us there. The two of us, Captain.”   “Three,” Spock said from the screen. “Under no circumstances will you go into the Anomaly or against the Other as a two-man expedition. Clearly the invitation was to all of us.”   Kirk felt his own jaw harden. “To you most of all, Mr. Spock. It was you he tried to kill. You are a target Perhaps the target. And you are not recovered from the last target practice. I won’t risk it. I need you to bring the Enterprise around the edge of the Neutral Zone and meet us at the Anomaly. I can’t leave her under anyone else in these circumstances.”   “Captain,” Spock said with the sound of barely leashed patience. “Mr. Scott is quite capable of bringing the ship. If I am a target, I am a target here as well. The Other can have counterfeited a dozen assassins to stalk me. I am functional. More than Omne is at the moment. And, to name only one factor, if Omne is killed or injured in the Anomaly, I am the only one who would stand some likelihood of keeping you alive on that planet, or of calculating a path out of the vortex fields.”   “That may be, Mr. Spock, but—”   “But,” Spock said, “that is only one factor. I name the fact which none of us can forget. Not only the Other is the enemy. The Original is still Omne—and a joint hunt does not change that. The wolf does not lie down with the lamb. Omne has given us no cause to trust him.”   Kirk sighed. The last thing he wanted to do was to test that premise. But he heard himself saying, “He has the only transport ship in town, Spock.” And to Omne: “I’ll go, thank you.”   Omne inclined his head. “You’re welcome. However, I quite agree with Mr. Spock.”   “You do?” Kirk said involuntarily.   Omne laughed, then sobered. “My Other wants a confrontation with all of us. If he does not get it, he will come after us separately. Me he must certainly kill, if he can, and there can be no guarantee that he cannot, since he is me. That would leave you in an unenviable position. Under hostile conditions, I cannot have my hands tied by the need to slow to your pace. You will require someone of Vulcan strength, at least, merely to stay alive on the planet. I cannot make a lifework out of pulling you out of the fire.” His look indicated his charred shoulders. “There is a certain amount of wear and tear.” The curve of Omne’s mouth was irony, but Kirk could see that the giant was suddenly ready to drop.   Kirk stood up and moved quickly, but Omne warned him off with a hand.   Kirk ignored it and took the giant’s arm, steered bun to sit down, and for once Omne allowed it.   “All right,” Kirk said very quietly. “Spock will come.” And still more quietly: “Thank you.”   Omne grinned rather sourly. “Never thank the wolf. Benevolence is not my nature. I promise nothing. I merely do not care to have someone else determine the fate of my chosen enemies.”   “Merely the logic of the situation?” Kirk said. “I still thank you.” He turned back to the screen. “Mr. Spock, brief Mr. Scott to meet us at the Anomaly, and prepare to beam aboard.”   “Immediately, Captain,” Spock said, and for the first time his face did not look quite so white.   Minutes later they had made the first transport jump. There was a limitation on range and a slight waiting interval before a full charge could be built up again, but the transporter ship was still faster than anything the known galaxy had developed.   Finally Spock turned to Omne. “You will now go and enter the Vulcan healing trance. It is now in my logical interest to attend you, for the assistance you can offer in finding your Other and in keeping those who are valuable to me alive. Therefore no imposition or question of trust is involved. Merely logic. You know me. Go.”   To Kirk’s surprise, Omne merely looked at Spock and said, “Very well.”   He went and stretched out face down on the medical table. “There will not be sufficient time, but you will rouse me before the last jump to the area.”   “Proceed,” Spock said.   Omne closed his eyes and Kirk saw him will himself down into the healing trance, as easily and deeply as the Vulcan would have.   It wrenched at him again, suddenly and deeply, that Omne was the Vulcan.   Kirk sat down rather suddenly himself, and he let the Vulcan fly the Phoenix ship while some of his own weariness and cumulative shocks caught up with him. CHAPTER XVIII   はスポックが翻訳した指揮官からの全メッセージを聞いた。 彼女のキンスマンの家にあったセキュリティ.カメラにはジェームズの仮面を着けたトレヴァニアンと侵入者が映っていた。 スポック、若しくは彼のダブルが。 トレヴァニアンはFederation Starfleet のユニフォームを着た侵入者と戦った。 トレヴァニアンは致命傷を負ったと思われ、そしてジェームズは彼の後に出て行った。 最高司令官の追跡を受けながら指揮官も彼等２人の後を追った。 彼女のキンスマンは最高司令官はからセキュリティフィルムを引き渡す様に要求された。   そしてDoyen の艦隊も別方向から終結していた、皇子と彼のキンスマンが消えたとの報告を受け。   スポックが厳しくカークを見た、”高速偵察機の許可を、船長 ”   ”許可できない ” カークは言った。   高速偵察機をどう使った所でアクションのあった場に到達する方法が無い事は事実だった。 とはいえ-- カークは試みなくてはならなかった。   カークは注意深くオムネを見た。 ”共闘だ。 私たち2人でだな? ”   ”私たちは招かれている ” オムネが言った。 ”私はもう１人の私が何処に行くかを知っている。 Anomally だ ”   ”Anomally には死の危険がある ” カークが言った。 ”ロミュランでさえ要求しないくらいだ ”   ”正確には。 中立地帯の境界を壊している物の1つで両サイドから要求とパトロールはされているがそこでは多くの船が失われている。それゆえに貴重なポテンシャルがある。 私はずいぶん前に調査を行いあの星系の中心惑星に至る1つの道を発見した。 物凄い惑星でAnomally の渦の心臓部だ。 重力はヴァル���ン星以上、地質学的状況は極めて変化しやすく危険であり居住可能部分は極僅かだった。 私はそこにベースを築いた ”   ”だがもう１人がそこへ行くことを君が予想するとはわからない -- 若しくはそれを避けるということは? ”   ”それが招待だという理由だ。 彼はそこに我々を求めている、そこに我々皆が集う事を。 それがジェームズを連れて行こうとした理由だ。 トレヴァニアンはボーナス。 若しくは彼は2人とも連れて行こうと目論んでいたのかもしれん。 トレヴァニアンを手中にすれば帝国を大きく裂く事になるからな ”   ”だが彼がそうだとはっきりしたわけでは -- 境界に向かったと言うことは? ”   ”それは選択にはない ” オムネが言った。 ”船長、君はもう１人の私が探知される事なくレセプションで彼の仕事をこなしそして帝国内に至ったのがあまりに速いと考えはしなかったか? 私は知り得ている、至るところに現れる君たちが ’ Flying Dutchman ' 効果というものを ”   姿、時間、距離が突然カークの頭でカチリとはまった。 ”君はそれを行った ” 彼は言った。 ”あらゆる専門家が不可能だと言った事を。 トランスポーター.シップで...”   ”2機ある ” オムネが言った。 ”Phoenix ship 全てを転送するには必要となるパワーの関係で限られる。 だがそれは有用だ。 もう１人の私は我々にそのキャパシティを使い果たした。 彼は今通常のワープドライブにおり、私のベースでの補給が必要となっている。 彼はやむを得ずそこで我々と会うことにした。 我々2人とだ、船長 ” ”3人 ” スポックがスクリーン越しに言った。 ”どうあろうと貴方方2人でもう１人の探査、若しくはAnomally の中に行くことはできない。 誘いは我々全員にかけられていることは明らかです ” カークは彼の顎が強ばるのを感じた。 ”とりわけ君へのだな、Mr.スポック。 彼が殺そうとしたのは君だった。 ターゲットは君 ” 恐らくターゲットなのだろう。 それでも君は先刻のものから回復していない。 私はリスクを侵したくはない。 君にはエンタープライズで中立地帯を迂回し、Anomally で私たちと落ち合ってもらいたいんだ ” ”船長 ” スポックが辛うじて忍耐を保って言った。 ”Mr.スコットは充分に船を運べます。 私がターゲットならば、ここでも同様に私がターゲットであるはずです。 もう１人は私に幾人もの暗殺者を送り込めます。 私は正常です。 現在のオムネ以上に。 それに、たったひとつの要因をあげるとすれば、もしAnomally でオムネが殺害若しくは傷を負うことがあればあの惑星で貴方の命を守る、若しくは渦を抜ける道を計算できるのは私しかいません ” ”それはそうだが、Mr.スポック、だがな -- ” ”ですが ” スポックが言った、”それはただの要因です。 我々が忘れてはならない事実があります。 敵はもう１人だけではありません。 オリジナルもまたオムネです -- 共闘していてもそれは変わりません。 子羊と狼は共に横になることはないのです。 オムネは我々に彼を信用する理由を与えてはおりません ” カークはため息をついた。 最後に彼は根拠のテストをしたかったからだ。 だが、彼は自分がこう言うのを聞いた、”彼は街で唯一のトランスポーターシップの持ち主だ、スポック ” そしてオムネへ、”私は行く、ありがとう ” オムネは頭を傾げた。 ”どういたしまして。 だがしかし、私はMr.スポックに完全に同意する ” ”君がか? ” カークが反射的に言った。 オムネは笑い、真顔になった。 ”もう１人の私は我々皆との対面を求めている。 もしそれが出来ないならば、後に個々の元に現れるだろう。 私である彼は確実に殺しにかかる、彼に出来るかどうか、彼に出来ないとの保証はない、彼は私なのだから。 そうなると君は厄介なポジションになるという事だ。 敵対的状況かにあっては君のペースに落とさなくてはならない事によって手を縛る事など出来ない。 君にはヴァルカンとしての強さを持つ者が必要だ、少なくともあの惑星で生き抜く為にはな。 私は君を炎から引き抜く事をライフワークには出来んよ ” 彼は焦げた肩を視線で示した。 ”消耗戦だ ” オムネの口が皮肉に曲がったがカークは突然崩れ落ちそうになる巨人に気づいた。 素早く立ち上がり移動したカークにオムネが警告のように手をあげた。 カークがそれを無視し巨人の腕を取り座らせたのを、オムネは1度だけ受け入れた。 ”わかった ” カークがそっと言った。 ”スポックもだ ” そして更に静かに言った。 ”ありがとう ” いまいましそうにオムネが笑った。 ”狼に感謝などするな。 慈悲は私にはない。 私は何の約束もしない。 単に私の選んだ敵の運命を他の誰かに決めさせたくはないだけだ ” ”単なる論理的状況判断だな? ” カークが言った。 ”だが私は感謝するぞ ” そして彼はスクリーンに向いた。 ”Mr.スポック、Mr.スコットにAnomally で落ち合うことを説明して乗船準備を ” ”直ちに、船長 ” そう言ったスポックの顔は初めて完全な白色ではないように見えた。 数分後彼等は最初のトランスポートジャンプを行った。 それには限界距離があり次のフルチャージに至るまで僅かのウェイティングインターバルがあるものの銀河で開発されしられているあらゆる物よりもそのトランスポーターシップは速かった。 ついにスポックがオムネへと向いた。 ”君はヴァルカンヒーリングトランスを実行すべきだ。 私の貴重な人々を生かす為、そしてもう１人の君を探す際に君にできる事をしてもらう為の手助けとして君に付き添う事が今の私の論理的利益だ。 それゆえに信頼に関する質問も課すべき物も無くていい。 単なる論理。 君は私を知っている。 さぁ ” カークは驚き、オムネはただスポックを見つめ言った、”承知した ” 彼は医療台へ行きうつ伏せになった。 ”充分な時間はない、エリア到達の最後のジャンプ前に私を起こせ ” ”先へ ” スポックが言った。 オムネが眼を閉じカークは気づいた、彼がヒーリングトランスへと深く入り込んでいることを、ヴァルカンが行うのと同様に容易に深部に達している事を。 再び彼は捩られた、即座に深部に達する、それはオムネがヴァルカンであるという事だった。 カークもまたどさりと腰をおろし彼自身の疲労と蓄積されたショックが彼に追い付く間ヴァルカンにPhoenix ship の飛行を任せておくことにした。

[aion-rsa]

Star Trek: The Original Series Needs A Real Origin Story

https://ift.tt/32aQW2W

When Star Trek: Strange New Worlds eventually debuts on CBS All Access and gives us the further adventures of Captain Pike, Spock, and Number One aboard the USS Enterprise NCC-1701, another gap in the Star Trek timeline will be fully explored. And yet, this gap isn’t the weirdest missing piece of Trek history. Other than one episode of The Original Series, we have almost zero on-screen canonical record of adventures that may have occurred for some — or all — of the year 2265, the first year of Kirk, Spock, and McCoy’s five year mission on the Enterprise. In essence, Star Trek: Year One, does not exist. But, could it happen now?

Back when The Original Series first aired, the notion of exactly when it was set was kept somewhat vague. In fact, according to The Making of Star Trek (1968), in Roddenberry’s earliest pitches to networks, he specifically noted that the setting could have been in the 1990s or 22nd century. His original pitch read: “The time could be 1995 or even 2995 — close enough to our times for our continuing cast to be people like us, but far enough in the future for galaxy travel to be fully established.”

While it’s true that Roddenberry eventually settled on the 23rd Century as being the “real” setting for the series, some episodes (notably “Space Seed”) imply the series is only set two hundred years in the future, meaning the late 22nd century or the early 23rd (Khan says he has been sleeping for “two centuries” since the late 1990s). 

In 1980, a book called Star Trek: Spaceflight Chronology — published in connection with the first Star Trek roleplaying game — claimed the future history of Trek happened in the very early 23rd century, meaning the five-year-mission of the Enterprise, at that point, was from 2207 to 2212. But, two years later, Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan changed all that when the words “In the 23rd century…” filled the screen, and it was later established that The Wrath of Khan took place in 2285 (the Romulan Ale Bones brings Kirk was vintage 2283). From that point on, the era of The Original Series began in the 2260s (TOS) and spanned to the 2290s (The Undiscovered Country).

So, why is the first year of TOS missing? Well, the actual start date of Kirk’s five-year mission has changed twice. First, the Spaceflight Chronology established it as 2207, but then in 1993, with the publication of The Star Trek Chronology re-established it as 2264. Authors Denise Okuda and Michael Okuda (who worked as designers on Trek throughout the ‘90s and early ‘00s) picked 2264 because the idea was that The Next Generation began in 2364, exactly 100 years later, and that 2264 would be roughly exactly 300 years from the point Star Trek first began filming in 1964. 

However, dialogue in the Voyager episode “Q2” mentioned Kirk’s five-year mission ended in 2270, which means it (retroactively) began in 2265, not 2264. So, 2265 is when the “official” canon settled on the actual start of TOS (yes, Voyager saved TOS chronology!). 

This is where things get interesting. 

In terms of this official canon — and what Roddenberry intended — the only episode that happens in 2265 (or 2264 in old canon) is “Where No Man Has Gone Before.” In case you’ve forgotten, this episode was the second pilot of Star Trek (after “The Cage”) and the one where Spock wears a gold command uniform, Sulu is wearing blue, and everybody has uniforms that look more like husky sweaters than the slick ‘60s chic of the rest of the show. In The Making of Star Trek, Roddenberry makes it clear that the rest of the series is meant to occur well after this pilot episode, which explains why the crewmembers are all fairly familiar with each other in literally all the other episodes. 

When you watch “Where No Man Has Gone Before” – again, the only canonical story set in 2265 — it’s very clear the Enterprise we see here is very different from the Enterprise we see in the rest of the series. Not only are various crew members not in their familiar roles (Sulu isn’t the helmsman, he works in “astrosciences”) but also many of the most famous crew members are missing: Specifically, Uhura and Bones. In canon, we have no idea what it was like when Uhura, Bones, Scotty, Kirk, or Sulu first came on board the ship. In fact, until the 2019 Discovery episode “Q&A”, we also had no idea what this was like for Spock, either. 

Outside of “Where No Man Has Gone Before,” we’re not sure what happened during 2265, other than the fact that Kirk flirted with Dr. Helen Noel at a Christmas party because he and Helen talk about this a year later in 2266 during “Dagger of the Mind.” And, funnily enough, if Star Trek years work the way ours do, this means the only 2265 event referenced in TOS would have happened at the very end of that year. The rest of the year is a complete mystery.

At the end of “Where No Man Has Gone Before,” Gary Mitchell has died after having transformed into a ESP-wielding space deity. Spock admits to Kirk that Mitchell’s death affected him. “I felt for him, too,” Spock says. And then, the series, basically, fast-forwards to an entire year later. “The Man Trap,” “The Corbomite Maneuver,” and the rest of the first season clearly happens after a lot of time has passed. But what was the Enterprise like when Mitchell was still alive and Spock didn’t “feel” for him? Did “Where No Man Has Gone Before” happen right at the start of 2265 or toward the middle? Near the end? It’s the oldest period of Star Trek and we still know almost nothing about it.

As far as the actual events of Kirk’s five year mission are concerned, not counting “Where No Man Has Gone Before,” all the episodes (and The Animated Series) happen between 2266-2270. Most fans and scholars place TOS from 2266-2268-ish and The Animated Series from 2269-2270 (though there is some overlap between TOS and TAS). 

The other gaps in the Kirk era have been explored outside of official canon. IDW comics have tackled the idea of the “fifth season” of Star Trek, most recently with the miniseries Star Trek: Year Five. Back in 1989, J.M. Dillard published the novel Star Trek: The Lost Years, which would have filled in the time between the end of TOS and the beginning of Star Trek: The Motion Picture. 

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Movies

The Wrath of Khan Producer Hints at New Potential Star Trek Movie

By Don Kaye

However, there’s been far less attention paid to the first year, 2265. In 1985, DC Comics published a special issue about “The First Mission,” in which the absence of Bones in “Where No Man Has Gone Before” was hastily explained. However, this story took place in the form of a “flashback” during what was then the regular continuity of DC Comics’ Star Trek timeline: At that point in the “present,” Kirk was in command of the Excelsior, the Enterprise had not been rebuilt, and Spock had his own ship called the USS Surak. The point is, this Year 1 origin story was the flashback to what is now, at best, an alternate timeline. 

Somewhat more significantly, in 1986, Pocket Books published the novel Enterprise: The First Adventure, written by legendary SF author Vonda M. McIntyre. This book tackled a variety of tricky canon issues including Chekov’s status during the first season (he worked in a different part of the ship) Spock’s random emotionalism (including a Vulcan circus performer), and the fact that almost nobody liked Kirk at first. Back in the ‘80s, McIntyre’s Star Trek books were among the best, mostly because her writing tended to be cited as pseudo-canon even when it technically wasn’t. 

Case-in-point, her 1981 Trek novel, The Entropy Effect, gave Sulu and Uhura the first names Hikaru and Nyota, both of which stuck. This isn’t to say Enterprise: The First Adventure actually “counts” as part of canon, or that the first adventure of the Enterprise under Kirk involved housing a group of traveling entertainers, but McIntyre’s books had a way of sticking into the way fans talked about canon back in the day, especially when it came to missing things, like characters’ names.

Speaking of Uhura’s first name, the most famous “Year 1” Star Trek story of them all is the 2009 movie Star Trek. But, as most fans are probably aware, the J.J. Abrams Star Trek film creates, and takes place, in an alternate universe, in which the crew of the original Enterprise meets in an entirely different way, and the tech of the 23rd century is profoundly influenced by a time-traveling Romulan ship from the future (got all that?). 

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TV

Exploring the Biggest Missing Gap in the Star Trek Timeline

By Ryan Britt

The so-called “Kelvin Timeline” actually bumped-up the earliest adventures of Captain Kirk by several years. In its own timeline, the bulk of Star Trek 2009 occurs in 2258. In the Prime Timeline, this is six years earlier than when Kirk originally took command of the Enterprise. 

In fairness, the Abramsverse accounts for this by having Kirk go from Cadet to Captain in like two hours, thanks to a series of bizarre circumstances, but still, if we were only concerned about the Kelvin timeline, then the “Year 1” moment of Star Trek would be very clearly established. 

The 2009 Star Trek can be debated from a variety of different angles, but the one thing it makes pretty plain is that it is not the “actual” origin story of the TOS crew coming together, but instead, that story “retold” in an alternate universe. This is pretty weird relative to other fandoms: Star Trek 2009 would be like if the Alien–prequel Prometheus went out of its way to turn to the camera and say “this is a prequel, but one that takes place in a different dimension, and also, the chronology doesn’t work. Oops.” 

So, the 2258 of Star Trek 2009 isn’t the “right” 2258, and none of what happens in the “present” of those films is connected to TOS, Discovery, or the upcoming Strange New Worlds. In fact, the year 2258 is likely the start of Strange New Worlds.The final scenes in Discovery Season 2 happen in 2258, in which the crew of the Enterprise (and Ash Tyler) are all debriefed at Starfleet Command. This means Strange New Worlds will likely happen between 2258 and 2263 because that would be another Five-Year-Mission for Pike. This brings us very close to 2265, the real first year of Kirk’s command of the Enterprise. 

2265 is missing. It’s arguably the most formative era in all of Star Trek, and the period which establishes the classic characters in the roles that define the rest of the franchise. If Strange New Worlds shows us the entire journey of Pike’s Enterprise, it could, in theory, have an entire season set after Pike hands the keys to Kirk. The first year of The Original Series could become the final season of Strange New Worlds. And that means everyone who has been waiting for a new Captain Kirk could finally get their wish. 

Strange New Worlds is expected to start airing some time in 2021 or 2022.

The post Star Trek: The Original Series Needs A Real Origin Story appeared first on Den of Geek.

from Den of Geek https://ift.tt/2DDxfXx

[winterverses]

Chapter Twenty-Three

Everyone in the med bay had seemed to be busy when he left the isolation room, but Kirk could almost feel the curiosity in the air. He hadn’t apologized for his presence, either in words or in action; he’d strolled through the room, stopping to talk to a pretty nurse, and walked out into the hall as if he had every right to be wandering around dressed in scrubs after sleeping with a patient. Dr. Hayes had been right; it was inappropriate. He didn’t care.

After changing, showering, and spending a little time reading, he made his way to the lounge to meet Anne for lunch. It was a late lunch, so the lounge was nearly empty, and he had his pick of seats. Anne wasn’t there yet. Seating himself at the corner table with the view, he watched the room, sipping a coffee the server had brought.

While he waited, he saw Scotty enter the room and waved him over. After getting a coffee of his own, Scotty came and sat down in the chair Kirk indicated, the one that wasn’t in the corner. “G’dafternoon, Captain,” Scotty said. “So what’s in that wee vial?”

“Blood, Scotty. And a bomb.” Kirk filled him in on the events of the night before. After finishing his account-- leaving out the part about him staying with Anne-- he said, “I suspect things are going to heat up soon. Spock is going to work with Anne to see if they can find us co-ordinates or useful leads on the location of Loche’s ship.” He hadn’t confirmed this yet, but he knew Spock, and he knew Anne. “We’ll need to be ready. How’s the runabout?”

“She’ll go if you need her, Captain. Put the dings and scratches on her myself.” Scotty sighed. “Orion technology is finicky, though. It may need some nursing along. I’m doing my best wi’ it, but it’s a pain in the arse.”

“Hopefully we don’t need it,” Kirk said. “I’m hoping for a straightforward ship to ship confrontation. The Enterprise can handle anything that gets thrown at it.” He grinned. “Even if we have to resort to classical music.”

Scotty chuckled. “That Jaylah sent me a message. Top of her class, she is, but her instructors gie her a hard time because she likes to cut her own orders.”

Shaking his head, Kirk smiled widely. “We’ll see how she does.” Scotty kept campaigning for Kirk to offer Jaylah a position on the Enterprise. Kirk wasn’t sure if the relationship between the two of them was romantic or friendship or professional compatibility, or if they’d even bothered to define it; it just was. But he already knew Jaylah would work well with them. She had before. And he kept an eye on her performance, which was stellar, aside from the insubordination. It was likely she’d end up on the Enterprise at the end of her studies.

A silver glint caught his eye, and he looked up to see Anne walking towards his table. She looked solemn, but her eyes lit up when they met his, and a lightness came into her step in spite of her limp. Kirk sat back, smiling, and pulled out her chair, looking her over. The soft grey dress she wore looked touchable, inviting, and the dark circles and gauntness she’d had when he first saw her had disappeared, though it was clear that she was still recovering from something, and still too thin. But she looked... happier, and it suited her.

“Well, I’d better be off,” Scotty said, and it almost surprised Kirk. For a moment, he’d forgotten Scotty was there.

Anne caught his words, and said as she walked up, “No, please stay a bit, Mr. Scott. I have a schedule change that I would like your permission for.”

Scotty eased back into his chair, glancing at Kirk. “All right, lassie. What is it?”

Anne slid into the chair beside Kirk, smiling at him as she sat down, and then turned her attention to Scotty. “Commander Spock and I will be working on a project that will help us learn more information about the smuggling ring. Since Mr. Spock has command on second shift, it’s best to do this beforehand, on first. If I could come in at 0500 and leave at 1300 hours, that would make it far more convenient for us. Is that acceptable to you?”

Scotty considered for a moment, toying with his coffee cup. “Check in with Keenser when you come in. He’s there at all hours-- I’m not sure if he sleeps. He’ll set you up familiarizing yourself with the warp core maintenance functions and what to do if there’s an emergency that needs us.”

Kirk gave Scotty a look of surprise. “I thought you were just having her repair things.”

“And waste a bright girl like that? Ha! No, she has the rank of crewman first class, so she has the duties as well. It’s just she has to learn them on the fly.” Scotty sipped his coffee and looked to Anne. “How’re yer studies, lassie? It’s a lot to learn at once, I know.”

Shrugging, Anne said, “I’m all right. Ms. Reynolds has been assisting me if I need it.” Kirk made a soft, incredulous noise and Anne glanced at him, amused at his surprise. “You didn’t think I was just loafing around, did you? You’re not the only thing in my life.”

Kirk shook his head, laughing. “I just didn’t expect the artistic type to take to engineering so easily.”

Anne shrugged. “You should take a better look at my aptitude tests. I like to know how things work.”

Shaking his head in amusement, Scotty pushed away from the table and stood. “I’d best be off. We’ll see ye the day after tomorrow.” Kirk nodded, and Anne gave Scotty a brilliant smile. It teased a grin from Scotty, and he started to whistle as he walked off.

Once he had left, Kirk turned to Anne. “Did you get your face chewed off?” He was starting to think Dr. Hayes might be a teeny bit more aggressive than her polished beauty suggested. Good. It meant Bones wouldn’t run roughshod over her.

“Almost,” Anne said, her smile fading. “She did bring up something that I think needs to be said out loud.”

Was this a relationship talk? The air seemed to close in around them. Kirk frowned. “And what’s that?”

“Whatever happens, we’re not…” Anne paused, shaking her head. “I feel so awkward. This is ridiculous.” She took a deep breath. “I can’t stay on the ship forever, and you can’t leave it. Eventually, maybe sooner than would be good for our friendship-- or anything else-- we’re going in different directions. I want you to know that when it happens, I’m not going to have any hard feelings about it.”

Kirk had to give this some thought, hiding it behind a long drink from his coffee mug. He had been concentrating on the present, and had left the future as a big question mark. He’d never had to consider it before. His close friends were all his crew members. Even his flings tended to be Starfleet, and there were no illusions about romance when you served on different ships. Hunting among his own crew had been… problematic, until he’d found a few discreet ladies that had no designs on him or his rank. But Anne was none of these things, whether it was just that she wasn’t Starfleet, or whether it was that it was starting to be known that there was something going on between them, even if neither of them was quite sure what it would be just yet. If he wanted something more than a friendship, it had to be with the knowledge that there was a cutoff approaching.

“You’re right to bring it up,” he said finally. “I’m not going to say it won’t be an issue, but I don’t think hard feelings will be a part of it. That’s never been my style.” Why get involved if it only had to end? What did she think about that?

Looking back at her told him everything he needed to know. She was still here, watching him, her eyes conveying her trust. “Good. I don’t want either of us to be blindsided.” She offered a little grin. “Besides, it’s not that big a galaxy. I’m sure we’ll run into each other somewhere down the line.”

That was also true. They’d found out a day or two ago that he’d had shore leave on Risa when she was living there; had he known her then, he would have looked her up. “You have a definite point. For now, though, we’ve got the length of this mission, plus a guaranteed two week shore leave on Yorktown. Maybe longer, if there are enough convictions we need to be there for.”

“Guess Spock and I better look hard,” Anne said with a wry grin.

“Not hard enough that either of you get hurt,” Kirk said. “Captain’s orders.”

Anne gave him a flat, incredulous look.

“What?” Surely that had occurred to her. “You do have a rank, and you are on my ship. If I give you an order, it’s either for your safety or for the safety of the crew in general, and I expect it to be obeyed.”

Anne shook her head and sighed. “Now I remember why I decided against Starfleet.” She gave him another wry little grin. “How did they ever let you through?”

Laughing, Kirk looked down into his coffee. “I might not have made it if I hadn’t stopped some very nasty people and gotten a commendation. It was a bit dicey there for a while-- they had me on suspension.”

“That I believe,” Anne said. “Well, your good luck is mine, I guess. And yes, I’ll follow orders when I’m on the clock. But on my own time--”

“When we’re not on the clock... I’m not the Captain. Not with you.” The decision had snuck up on him, but Kirk meant it. The rank was important to him, part of him, but this was different. She didn’t need a Captain, she needed a friend-- someone on equal footing, even if it left him feeling odd and a bit naked in a way that wasn’t comfortable.

Anne’s peculiarly intense gaze stayed on his eyes, and again he had that feeling that she was seeing more than he’d said. A little smile played on her lips. “Thank you. I’m not sure I’ve ever been paid a higher compliment.”

He shouldn’t have found it odd that she realized how essential it was to his identity to be the Captain of the Enterprise. “You’re welcome.” Talking about it further would cut too close to… just too close. “But let’s get some lunch. Are you going to finish out your shift in Engineering today?” Kirk waved over the server.

“Medical says I should take the day off. My leg isn’t fully healed, and walking around so much will slow the healing further.” Anne looked down, her lips curving in amusement. “And I’m going to be in therapy every day, starting after my day off tomorrow. Dr. Hayes thinks she can take advantage of the mind melds plus some hormone trickery to get me a little more stable when you’re not around for me to lean on.”

“Hormone trickery?” Kirk asked, frowning, but it was at that point the server arrived at the table.

“What would you like, sir, ma’am?” The man smiled broadly at both of them.

Anne and Kirk looked at each other, and somehow it was decided that he would order. “Eggs benedict with smoked salmon for both of us. And coffee for the lady. Cream, no sugar.”

The server nodded. “Right away.”

As he left, Kirk asked, “What’s this about hormones?”

He didn’t expect Anne’s snicker. “We should have gone for the controlled substances cabinet when we had the chance. Ostensibly, the doctor is loading me up with the hormones involved in trust and bonding, but I read the side effects. Euphoria, heightened sensory perception… sounds like a fun ride.”

“No way,” Kirk said, piqued. “They’re giving you the good stuff? Why don’t I ever get any of that?” He was joking, but the idea was interesting.

“Only for the duration of the therapy session. Then they give me the counteractive and it goes away in about five minutes.” Anne sighed. “Waste of a good high. Then again, I used to know a guy on Yorktown…”

“Rules and regs, Anne,” Kirk said, although his rebuff didn’t quite have the strength behind it that it should.

He had the feeling she’d picked up on his lack of censure, but she didn’t make an issue of it. “Right, right. Permanent record and all that, got it.” Anne sighed. “Again, reasons I didn’t join Starfleet.”

Kirk just watched her. “You know, you really, really misrepresented yourself during that first dinner we had,” he finally said, laughing.

Anne blinked, surprised. “Why, what do you mean?”

Of course, the server chose that moment to reappear with their food, placing it on the table in front of them. “Enjoy your meal, Captain, ma’am.”

Kirk watched the man walk away, and then answered, “Writing, gardening, cooking, saying you were uninteresting… and yet here you are a constant wanderer with Klingon love affairs and alleged connections to controlled substances.” Not to mention the way her voice blurred into a different accent when she was under stress. He wasn’t sure about bringing that up, though. If he pushed her, she might close herself off, and he didn't want that.

Anne frowned playfully at him as she sipped her coffee. “It wasn’t a love affair, it was-- well, anyway. It’s not like that happens because I live a wild life. I just talk to people--”

“And then you end up living a wild life because of the people you talked to, and said life happens to have gardening and cooking somewhere on the edges,” Kirk teased. “Come on now, Anne. How can you not make the connection there?”

Instead of laughing, she surprised him by taking it seriously. “I suppose it looks that way on the outside. It’s a little different when you’re on the inside. To me, the gardening and the cooking and the writing are what happens all the time, and the other things are once-offs that I choose to go along with because… it’s research, basically. You can’t write if you don’t live.” She smirked, and her eyes became shadowed. “Even the trial was research, right up until I took the stand.”

A layer of detachment between her and her experiences. That was something Kirk had started to develop once he took the Captain’s chair, and he was still working on it. A good captain could view things objectively in the heat of the moment. “Is everything like that?” he asked, curious. It was strange to meet someone who talked like that detachment was native, or at least so long-developed that it was second nature. It reminded him of Vulcans, in a way.

She surprised him again when she set down the coffee cup, looking a bit offended. “Not everything is research.” Her expression softened almost immediately. “I realize how that came off, but no, some things just… are. I don’t always get to pick them, but sometimes I luck out.”

Kirk couldn’t suppress the little smile he felt playing at the corners of his mouth. He didn’t need a flashing sign to tell him why she’d been offended. “My turn to thank you for the compliment, I guess.”

Her cheeks pinked adorably. “You’re welcome.”

Suddenly spending the rest of the day without having dinner with her to look forward to seemed incredibly dull. “Well, if you’re not going back to Engineering, and we’ve both got the day off tomorrow, I could use some company for a late dinner. I’m going to relieve Spock after this, and I’ll be off at 2300. Probably back in my quarters by 2315.”

She paused, her knife buried in the food, yellow yolk spilling out onto the salmon. “Your place, huh?”

The undercurrent of tension in her voice was suggestive, in that he was suddenly very aware of the space between them, and what could happen if it disappeared. “Why not?” he asked, trying to keep it light. Above all else, he didn’t want her to worry. He wasn’t planning on surprising her with anything, or pushing anything. A change of venue didn’t have to mean much. “I mean, if you want we can stick to your quarters, but I’d have to make it 2330. No big deal.”

She settled a bit, but that sense of tension didn’t quite leave. “Yours is fine.” She looked up at him from under lowered eyelashes, and finished cutting her food. “2315, then. I’ll be there.”