Title: Man of His Word Author: Istannor Series: TOS Part: 1/20 Rating: PG. Codes: violence Summary: Diplomatic Privilege becomes the refuge for an Ambassador who murders. The Enterprise must solve the crisis caused by his cowardice. Folks wanted non-slash H/C. I salvaged this from my doomed hard-drive. Disclaimer: Paramount owns the boys and the Startrek Concept. Fanfic writers exist to honor them. We promise to stay poor and let them reap all of the money. Copyright 3/98 Istannor Stardust Memories This is set in my universe, slightly to the left of canon. Feedback makes me sing. Thank-you to The Doc of Science who beat me and it up, then told me I could post it, even though she is gonna make me rewrite it anyway. ;-) A MAN OF HIS WORD Chapter 1 Day does not dawn on a Starship, it powers up. The lights of the corridor began to brighten as the crew of alpha shift started to filter into the mess and get their breakfast. They met the sight of their Captain already seated at his customary seat, beside his customary breakfast companion. The sound of laughter greeted the first crewmember as she entered the mess. Kirk was obviously entertained as he listened to a rendering by the First Office. One would be hard put to have seen any evidence of amusement on Spock’s face. They continued to talk during their breakfast, with obvious comfort. Finally, they rose as one, removed their trays, and exited the mess together. One young ensign, new to the ship could not resist a comment to her fellow. "What in the world does the Captain find funny with Mr. Spock? I thought Vulcans don't have a sense of humor." "Who knows," her companion answered around a bagel, "the Captain and Mr. Spock are best friends, everybody knows that. Mr. Spock actually has a pretty subtle sense of humor, or so they tell me." "Best friends, how the heck can you be best friends with a Vulcan? They don't feel, for gosh sakes." "Young one, you have a lot to learn . What are they teaching you at the Academy these days? You have to stop assuming stuff about people because of something you heard. Keep an open mind. If you don't learn anything else here, you will learn that. Vulcan's are people just like everybody else, just different in some ways. Take each person as they come to you, ya know." The young but more experienced Ensign shifted in his seat to look around a look to see if they could be overheard by anyone else. "Not only are they best friends, scuttlebutt has it that they can read each others mind too. That is why we keep kicking Klingon and Romulan ass, you know. They are deadly on the bridge, but don't tell anyone... it's a secret." He nodded his head conspiratorially. He got a very satisfying look of awe from the young and quite cute ensign that sat in front of him. The Captain and Mr. Spock walked briskly to the Bridge to start first shift. "You should have seen his face, Spock. It was a remarkable sight. I didn't have the heart to keep him in the dark, though. The information that we got during the last encounter with the Orions proves that his new weapons update just will not work. I felt sorry for the guy... almost." "It would be illogical to feel sorry for the man. We tried to tell him rationally and from our own experience that his modifications would not be effective. His blind pursuit of his goal in direct contradiction to logic and against overwhelming odds, can only be described as... " Spock turned towards his friend, "like something you would do." His mouth crooked a little bit, translated by Kirk to a grin. "Ouch. Yeah, now you know why I feel for the man." Kirk's return grin was sheepish. "If your pain is too great, perhaps we can stop on our way to the bridge, at sickbay." "You are a veritable barrel of laughs, and don't answer that." The lift door closed on Spock's words. When the door opened on the bridge they were the picture of command professionalism, except for the gleam of silent amusement in Spock's eyes, and the rolling of Kirk's. "Good morning, Captain," Lt. Kyle greeted the alpha shift, and moved smoothly from the center chair, to hand the Captain the Padd. "We are on course for Alpha Prime, Sir, and there is no news to report." "Thank-you, Mr. Kyle." Kirk took his seat and looked over the Padd which gave him an update on ongoing projects on board the ship. Spock headed over to the science station to review some data the ship had recently collected on some gaseous anomalies. Uhura began to flash through the daily coded transmissions. She separated them out for forwarding or decoding, as required. A message caught her attention and she immediately began to decode it for the Captain's information. When she finished, she pursed her lips together and blew lightly as she reread it for errors. Finally, satisfied with her work, she got up and walked it down to the Captain. Kirk read it carefully, whistled softly, and turned around to her. "Thanks, Uhura. Get Starfleet on the horn for me, direct to Nogura. Ask him what are his plans?" He then got up and walked across to Spock, who felt him approach, and turned with a question in his face. "Read this, and tell me what you think." Spock turned to the coded diplomatic message that had been sent to any Starfleet Starship in the vicinity. Coded top priority all Starfleet vessels in the vicinity of Pranath. Star system Pranath Plen coordinates 3342.6 From Ambassador Gringrich To Starfleet headquarters and Federation Diplomatic corps: The Federation embassy at Pranath requests immediate assistance. There has been a diplomatic incident of the highest priority. The Ambassador has been accused of the crime of murder of a citizen of Pranath. The Pranath government refuses to honor the law of diplomatic immunity. The Ambassador has activated the Embassy screens, and refuses to exit the Embassy. The Pranath government has stated they consider the Ambassador's actions to be a prelude to armed conflict. We urgently request the assistance of any Starfleet Constitution Class vessel or Cruiser in the vicinity. The Pranath have stated that the safety of the over two thousand Federation citizens currently residing outside the Embassy Compound can not be guaranteed, if we do not comply. We repeat, we require immediate assistance. End of Transmission "Fascinating. Who is the closest to Pranath at this time?" The Vulcan said almost to himself. He bent over to check current ships dispositions from his station. "Save your energy, Spock; it's us." Kirk answered the question for him. "It really is the Potemkin, but they had to put into Starbase 9 for repairs on their duotronics net yesterday. They won't be ready to ship out for at least a week. It was in this mornings dispatches. My bet is we will be getting marching orders from Nogura sometime today, so we might as well start heading that way. Have the departments pull up all available information on Pranath, and I will be wanting a staffing at 1400 today. No rest for the weary." Kirk turned to Uhura, "Lt.Uhura, send a message to Starfleet command that we have received Gringrich's message and we are en route at due speed. Let Nogura guess how our transmission arrived ahead of his orders." He allowed himself a small smile. He privately enjoyed the fact that many at Starfleet thought of him as weirdly clairvoyant. It wouldn't hurt to foster the image a little. As long as those who counted knew the truth... he was. He chuckled to himself. Spock broke into his already racing thoughts." I think the phrase is, "No rest for the wicked," and judging from the look on your face right now, you would definitely qualify as one of the wicked." He spoke quietly only for his T'hy'la's ears. "It might be wise to stop teasing your superiors so aggressively; it might backfire. There are enough at Starfleet already who would love to see you humbled, without you continuing to promote their aggravation with you." "But my friend, that is one of your main tasks in life," he smiled secretly at his first officer. "You are here to keep me humble. What else can I be in the face of such overwhelming Vulcan superiority?" The Vulcan's eyebrow lifted in quiet exasperation. "Okay, okay, I will try to do better, but what can you expect from a hopeless risk -taker and " an opportunistic pretty-boy whore" like me?" Kirk forgot nothing and the words of Komack still burned him occasionally, despite his resolve to let it go. "Jim, I begin to wonder if the doubt is not becoming part of you. You are none of the things which Komack accused you of being. Your success, my presence at your side, and your crew’s unquestioned devotion to you should prove that to your satisfaction." He did not allow the human to avoid his gaze as he attempted to sway Kirk with his sense of conviction. "Well, easily satisfied isn’t one of my personality traits." He sighed audibly, "You’re right of course. I don't ever recall being this petty or vindictive before. Sometimes I think it would have been easier if I had just left with Renna. " "Easier for whom," the Vulcan responded without thought. Jim looked up at him, the discussion had suddenly gotten too intimate and revealing for the bridge. "We should finish this later, in private." "I agree." Spock broke eye contact and turned back to the science station. The bridge whispered efficiently around them, used to their private talks over the years, and respecting their distance as always, until need or opportunity arose to pull them back. Kirk turned towards the con. "Chekov, plot us a course for Pranath Prime and engage at warp five. Sulu, I would like you to plan and begin a series of practice maneuvers based on the known capabilities of the Pranath military, and include mock weapons trials with it." "Aye, Sir," Sulu responded "Do you have any idea if we will be meeting a military force when we arrive?" "I have no idea what we'll fall into when we get there, Mr. Sulu, so let's be prepared for the worst and be ecstatic if we find the best. Mr. Spock, you have the con. I will be in the Sickbay. I think I better warn Bones in person. I don't want to hear that type of language over the COM." Chuckles greeted his statement. Title: Man of His Word Author: Istannor Series: TOS Part: 2/20 Rating: PG. Codes: violence Summary: Diplomatic Privilege becomes the refuge for an Ambassador who murders. The Enterprise must solve the crisis caused by his cowardice. Chapter 2 Everyone knew the Doctor had really been looking forward to their scheduled shoreleave, which would now be delayed. McCoy had been known to be particularly prolific in his descriptions of life's inequities when that had happened in the past. None of them envied the trip Kirk was making now. When he reached the sickbay, he took a deep breath and girded his loins as he entered the lions den. He knew Bones would erupt. In that regard, he was extremely predictable. It was fortunate Kirk knew the Doctor so well, and loved him so dearly as a friend. Most Starship Captains would never put up with the type of abuse he was about to most certainly get. "Here it goes, JTK, be strong," he said to himself as he entered. He found McCoy bent over some tissue samples from a sick crew member in his lab. He waited patiently for the Doctor to look up. "Bones, I have something I need to tell you." "Hmm, I don't like the look on your face. So, you are about to tell me something I sure in the hell don't want to hear." McCoy turned to face him with a scowl. Kirk fidgeted and then smiled lamely. "We're diverting from the scheduled shoreleave. We're on our way to Pranath prime." "Wait one goddamn minute. I know that you are not telling me our leave is canceled, again?" Leonard McCoy's voice soared in outrage. "I had reservations at the Blue Room, for Crissakes. Do you know how much that set me back? They might not refund my credits and I was going to be hooked up with Alissa the bold. Oh, my chest hurts." He held his hand to his heart in only partially feigned agony. " Just kill me and put me out of my misery." Kirk burst out laughing and laughed so hard that he could barely stand. "Alissa the bold," he gasped. "Bones, you idiot, Alissa the bold is a Klingon. She'll kill you. They use knives and they bite. What the hell did you pick her for?" "Ah, the pleasure of pain, and how the hell do you know? Don't tell me that you've been there." He looked at his friend suspiciously. Jim did not usually frequent bordello's. He was able to pick up women just by walking into a room. Bones had seen him do it. "Yeah, I went there once with a date, of all things. She was more than a little kinky," his smile was one of fond remembrance. "Alissa the bold wanted us both, and was not afraid to aggressively pursue what she wanted. I almost started looking for a phaser. She is real scary, Bones. I may have saved your life." "Well, don't pat yourself too much on the back, dammit. From what I heard, it would've been a great way to go." He smiled from ear to ear while he thought about it, then he remembered again that he wasn't going there, and his smile faded. His look became thoughtful. " How long will the detour take, maybe I can switch my reservations?" "I don't know, Bones, sorry." Kirk felt for him, but duty came first. "Well, what will be, will be. As bad as it is for me, it's going to be worse for some of the crew. Let me plan something until we get there, to let them blow off some steam, before we start seeing a drop in crew efficiency ratings." "Now that's the ticket, Bones. I'm proud of your ability to bounce back," he chuckled. "Tell you what, I'll make it up to you when we get to our next leave. I bet I can find something new, even for your jaded tastes." Kirk smiled his most winning smile, enough to melt through the last bit of his friends resistance. "What's that?" Now, he had the Doctor's full attention. "Later," Kirk shook his head, "for now, anticipate the surprises. Just get ready, in case you have to do your thing once we reach Pranath. You can give a look at the list of the Embassy personnel and have your staff look for any non- human members. I know that you'll want to review their medical profiles, and make sure we're ready for them, if the need arises." "I know my job, Jim," McCoy bristled. He was still on edge from finding out about the leave, which made him even faster to anger than normal. "Sorry, Bones," Kirk held his hands out to him in a show of placation, "You know how I am about details. I don't mean to step on your toes." He saw the older man's features visibly relax as he allowed himself to be mollified. "Humph, well get out of my sick bay, so I can do my stuff." His smile softened the impact of his words and Kirk moved quickly to comply. Title: Man of His Word Author: Istannor Series: TOS Part: 3/20 Rating: PG. Codes: violence Summary: Diplomatic Privilege becomes the refuge for an Ambassador who murders. The Enterprise must solve the crisis caused by his cowardice. Folks wanted non-slash H/C. I salvaged this from my doomed hard-drive. Disclaimer: Paramount owns the boys and the Startrek Concept. Fanfic writers exist to honor them. We promise to stay poor and let them reap all of the money. Copyright 3/98 Istannor Stardust Memories This is set in my universe, slightly to the left of canon. Feedback makes me sing. Chapter 3 The briefing was very informative later that day. The departments did their usual thorough job, of preparing themselves to give an up to date overview of the issue at hand. The Pranath were a deeply religious, rigidly formal people that had been members of the Federation for over twenty years. They had their own military, which was well armed and completely capable of maintaining their own borders. They had joined the Federation more for the Medical and biological exchange of ideas, than any need for military protection and technology. The Federation had kept an Embassy on the planet since before its admission. The relationship had been uneventful to date. The same Ambassador had been in attendance for nineteen of the last twenty years. The current Ambassador had only been there for one year, posted from New Mars. The Pranath had never lodged a complaint against the Federation or the previous Ambassador. The current Ambassador already had three complaints lodged against he and his staff over the preceding year. He had been, in fact, up for recall before this current incident. It seemed that the man had shown an unconscionable lack of tolerance for many of the cultural practices of Pranath, and was not beyond voicing it. He had insulted the Council head, and the several of the major players in the Pranath Government. It was a wonder they had let him last that long. They reviewed the military capabilities of the Pranath cruisers. They had no ships capable of defeating the Enterprise, one on one. They would require the massed attack of three or more ships to break through and threaten the ship, as long as Kirk made no mistakes. The crew did not expect him to. The ships were built for speed and maneuverability, with warp nine capabilities. Their shields were good, but not good enough to go up against a Constitution Class ship. They finished up the briefing with Kirk resolving to go in as calmly and diplomatically as possible, since all indications pointed to the Ambassador as the probable culprit. Kirk was not looking forward to meeting this particular Federation Ambassador. They received their orders to divert to Pranath the next day at 0900 hours while Kirk was seated at the center chair on the bridge. By that time, they had been on course for 24 hours. It was a fact which caused Kirk to smile in pleasure. He remembered Spock's admonishment, and became barely somber again. When he turned to look over to the science station to see if he had been observed in his slip, the Vulcan was shaking his head in consternation. He smiled apologetically, obviously caught. They had three more days before they would reach Pranath Prime. McCoy was as good as his word and he planned a Rigellian festival with the recreation officer to keep the crew relaxed. They had the forward rec. room decked out, to recall a spring day on Rigel. The food and the festivities were silly and enjoyable. Kirk and Spock sat companionably at a table and watched the nights entertainment. Uhura and Scotty were doing a singing duet that was more than a little risqué. The crew was obviously getting a kick out it. Kirk seemed relaxed. The smile on his face was quickly replaced by a look of shock as Uhura came over and grabbed him. She pulled him on to the floor to join she and Scotty. They made Kirk kneel as Uhura sang and wriggled seductively on his knee, to his utter chagrin. The crew hooted and hollered at the sight. Spock could be seen to smile slightly in amusement. Kirk bore it all with good cheer. At the end of the song, he stood up in one powerful move. He held Uhura in his arms and kissed her deeply and rousingly to the standing cheers of the crew. She laughed and buried her face in his shoulder. Scotty laughed uproariously. He shook Kirk's hand roughly, and shouted: "Good one, Laddy, you got her good." The Captain marched triumphantly back to his seat. He looked at Spock with a raised eyebrow. The look dared him to comment. McCoy walked over as the next act took center stage and slapped Kirk hard enough on his back to send him reeling forward in his chair. "You are out of your mind, Jimboy, and I love it. I was sure you would not have a comeback for that." "You mean," he sputtered in mock outrage, "you planned that?" "Of course we planned it. That's what you get for getting my leave canceled." McCoy was feeling very satisfied with himself." "Bones, I will get my revenge." "Probably, but for now, wait till you see what we have for you next." Kirk groaned and slid down into the chair. "Doctor, I did not realize that you could be this vengeful." The deep baritone of Spock needled McCoy. "This is the real me, Spocko, so duck. If you mess with me, you're next." He whistled happily and marched away. "Spocko?" The Vulcan queried, looking at his friend. Kirk still sat slumped against the chair dreading what other terror McCoy had in store for him. It was not long before McCoy revealed his particular form of revenge. He announced to the now blissful audience: "Now, for your viewing enjoyment, we have a special treat. A special surprise for us here on Rigel seven. Straight from the star lanes, Captain James T. Kirk will do a dance for us of his choosing." The crowd erupted in good-natured applause, while the stunned Kirk looked around in bewilderment. He had said no such thing, and McCoy knew it. Even worse, if he backed out, he would never live it down. McCoy had put him in a neat little box. He thought furiously. He attacked the problem like a combat situation. Suddenly, an inspiration hit him. He leaned over to Spock and whispered in his ear. The Vulcan nodded in agreement and they got up and left the room quickly. Before the door closed on them, Kirk turned around and spoke to the crowd. "Never let it be said that I backed down from an obligation to the crew. If you would go on with the next act, we will return briefly. It seems the Doctor neglected to tell me I had made this promise, so I need to go make a few preparations. Be back shortly." The festivities went on with two Ensigns doing an especially inventive magic act to general ohs and awes. The magic act finished amidst appreciative applause. The crew waited with an expectant hush. McCoy had promised Kirk would dance. He had not said what type of dance it would be. Suddenly, music burst out of the speakers. It was Vulcan music, rich in drum rhythms and gongs with a syncopated and urgent atonal melody. As people began to pound their feet and fists to the rhythm, the lights dimmed. Kirk and Spock entered. They walked side by side and took up positions next to each other. They stood and bowed to the crowd once. Next, they turned to face each other. Both stood quietly, with their eyes closed. The music played on. The syncopation became more insistent. The Dance began. But, it was not the dance of ballrooms or nightclubs. It was not a dance of seduction. It was a dance of war. It was the dance of ancient Vulcan, a time when men and women died in battle on the ancient red sands of the desert. They whirled and kicked with perfect unity, mirroring the others moves precisely. The dance was in time to the syncopation of the music. The crowd found themselves beating anything they could find to keep the rhythm. The rhythm became urgent. It thrummed with intensity. Kirk turned and ran towards the Vulcan who at the last moment knelt. Kirk ran up his chest and flipped backwards to land on his feet. He met the Vulcan's leap and caught it at the top of its arc. He held him in full extension above his head for a count of three. Kirk rolled forward and Spock dived the opposite direction, tucking and rolling upright to his feet. The crowd was now completely on their feet. They stamped in approval as the two men moved in time to the throbbing beat . The Vulcan martial arts were practiced as a rhythmic dance from childhood. It became ingrained in Vulcan's from an early age. Spock had begun teaching them to Kirk during their first five-year mission. The lessons continued now they were reunited. Their bodies moved in precise unison. Their trust made them flow. They danced. The crew stood amazed. They leapt blindly, sure of the others presence and strength. There was no doubt, no hesitation, and no pause. Their bodies were coated with sweat and still they danced. McCoy gasped in awe as he stood in wonder and watched. The rhythm began to slow. Their movements matched the beat seamlessly. They brought the crowd back to reality with them. Slowly, Mt. Selaya and red sands retreated from their senses. It was over. They sat kneeling quietly in the center of the room. They breathed quietly, drenched in sweat. The room erupted in thunderous applause as they got up and walked out without a backward glance. McCoy shook his head silently. "Nyota, did you see that?" "Yes. Lenny, I did. I most assuredly did and it was simply wonderful." The rest of the night had nothing to top it. The crew went to bed entertained and relaxed. They were ready for the next challenge. McCoy was particularly pleased with himself as he sat in Sickbay and nursed a drink. The night had been a rousing success and he had been able to rib his second favorite target. Kirk was like a mixture of his son he had never had and his best friend in the universe. He loved him more than he could even admit to himself without becoming maudlin, and still as much as he thought he knew his friend, Kirk still surprised him. Who would of thought Jim could have gotten Spock, to do a Vulcan martial arts dance with him? McCoy sighed to himself. Kirk had them all wrapped around his finger. It was the truth and they were probably better for it. "Damn," he chuckled, "dancing with a Vulcan. He is a frigging Houdini." Title: A Man of His Word Author: Istannor Series: TOS Part: 4/20 Rating: PG13 Codes: violence Summary: Diplomatic Privilege becomes the refuge for an Ambassador who murders. The Enterprise must solve the crisis caused by his cowardice. Feedback makes me sing. Chapter 4 The next day Spock had 73 messages on his COM requesting instruction in the Vulcan Martial arts, evenly distributed between men and women. The Captain had 62, but 51 were females. They both sighed and vowed to wreak revenge on Leonard H. McCoy. The ship floated in orbit around the seemingly peaceful planet of Pranath Prime only 36.4 hours later. They had been met at the systems border by two cruisers that escorted them back to establish stable orbit around the giant planet. The Pranath Senate representative first contacted them. Quickly afterwards, they got a terse message from the Federation Ambassador. Kirk sent a response to the Ambassador that he would meet with the Pranath first. Then he arranged to meet with the Ambassador after he had paid his respects to the members of the sovereign world government. He beamed down with a security escort and Spock. "Captain Kirk, we welcome you to Sparch, Capital city of Pranath. I am Representative Stranich. I am sorry the circumstances of our first meeting are not particularly agreeable. I will be your official escort during your stay here." The people of Pranath were a tall willowy race of dusky humanoids, with visible, double ridged, linear crests, running from their forehead down to the vestigial tailbone. They had wide luminous eyes tending towards black, and elegant fluted ears. Kirk found them strangely attractive as a people. The pleasant demeanor of the man in front of him added to the overall affect. "Thank-you for your assistance, Representative Stranich." Kirk greeted him respectfully. "I realize this is a difficult situation for everyone. I would like to get it resolved as soon as possible. If you, or someone you designate, can bring me up to date on what occurred here, we can get started fixing this mess." "We Pranath truly appreciate honesty, Captain. Therefore, I will designate myself. I am at your disposal. Allow me to take you someplace where you can be comfortable, and I will begin our sad and sordid tale." Representative Stranich led them deeper into the Capitol complex, until they were seated in a large conference room, furnished with wide well- cushioned chairs and COM terminals." Have a seat, Gentlebeings. I will have the information formatted to put on the screen in front of you while I speak. If you will excuse me for a moment, I have to arrange for some of our people to come and speak with you, also. They waited patiently for Representative Stranich to return .He moved to put a tiny diskette into the COM slot, and sat down at the head of the table. A large hologram appeared before them with a picture of a young male Pranath. "This, Captain, is a representation of Jardish, the brother of a page at the Federation Embassy. He is the man your Ambassador killed on the Embassy grounds. We have not been able to actually find out all the details, but it seems that Ambassador Gringrich beat him to death. It occurred after an argument over the Ambassador's treatment of the sister of Ser Jardish. The Pranath staff states the Ambassador had made some inappropriate remarks to Sera Jardish. As was his duty, as the oldest male sibling, he approached the Ambassador. His timing was unfortunate. The Ambassador was, by his own admission, drunk on alcohol. He took offense and began to beat the man. He crushed his skull with a crystal sculpture from his desk. We have the blood drenched tool in our possession, along with his fingerprints, and tissue traces all over both Ser Jardish and the sculpture." Kirk bowed his head to try to hide the anger he was feeling. "What a senseless waste of life." He felt a strong urge to take care of the Ambassador for them. He repressed that feeling violently. It served no purpose. "We approached the Ambassador to seek justice and we were thrown out of the Embassy. He threw us out," his voice conveyed his sense of outrage, "after he killed a man. Now, he has put the Embassy shield up, and refuses to come out under any circumstances. His staff can not lower the screens without his personal code, which he refuses to divulge." Stranich spread his hands in supplication. "We are not cruel, Captain. He has abused one child and murdered the other child of one of our leading families. They have demanded justice; his life for the life he took. If he were a normal citizen, it would not be so complex. As a representative of the Federation, his refusal to comply with the will of the Law is seen as a refusal on the part of the Federation to honor our Law. By the tenets of our treaty, that technically puts us on a war standing. All your citizens residing here on Pranath are now at risk. We tried to explain this to Gringrich. It meant nothing to him. All he cares about is his own safety." "Did he give any justification for his actions?" Kirk asked. "He cited Diplomatic privilege, Captain. However, a simple reading of the treaty would show him that Diplomatic privilege, on this planet, is reserved for acts or transgressions done in the act of fulfilling official duties. It does not extend to murder, rape, drug sales, or any other act that is a personal and private choice. It does not extend to acts not requested of a government. Now, if you certify that beating Jardish to death was an act ordered by the Federation, we would have no choice but to honor that with immunity." "I see. I can assure you the Federation is not in the habit of ordering Ambassadors to beat people to death in drunken rages. Perhaps talking to Gringrich will help get some more insight." A light flashed on the console and Stranich bent towards it as someone spoke to him quietly. "I have two members of the Embassy staff and Jardish's sister who have just arrived. I would like them to tell their side also. I think it would be helpful to you." They sat quietly while the first two, young, male, Pranath essentially told a story of an out of control Ambassador, who was often drunk and inappropriate. On the day in question, Jardish had requested a private audience with the Ambassador and Gringrich had left instructions for them to not be disturbed and he had erected a privacy screen. It had been approximately one hour later when he had called them in to remove the bloody body of Jardish. He was obviously very dead. The Ambassador had been covered with blood and was semi-hysterical at the time. He swore that Ser Jardish had attacked him and he had defended himself. Spock dutifully recorded it all and asked a few pertinent questions as he gathered the information. Kirk sat quietly and listened as he tried to feel his way to the truth. His eyes searched the speakers in front of him. He watched their body language. His ability to read people, even non-humans was something that he did without thought. The rarity of that ability was not something he had ever stopped to appreciate. It was a tool, like any other. They were telling the truth, as they believed it. This was not a strange political maneuver. The sister sealed the story in Kirk's mind. She was escorted in by two members of Stranich's guards, but they treated her with an obvious tenderness. She had lustrous long black hair that shimmered as she walked and beautiful brown eyes that were wet with moisture. There was a sensual litheness about her body that was innocent at the same time. Kirk could see how a human male could be attracted to her. Her beauty was very real, and very different. She gave off a teasing fragrance, that he could not place. It completed a picture of alien allure. "Sera Jardish, if you could please tell Captain Kirk what occurred to lead up to your brother approaching the Ambassador." Stranich's gentle question hung in the air for an interminable time before the young woman began to speak. "I started to work with Ambassador Stranich on the first day he arrived. At first, he was pleasant and professional. I think it was in the second month, after he got the divorce notice from his wife, that I began to notice a change. He started drinking, first only at night, then during the day. Eventually he always had a glass of alcohol in his hands." She shifted uncomfortably in her chair and they had to concentrate to catch all of her words. "He started to touch me," She looked down at her hands. "I asked him to stop, but he continued. He would go out of his way to touch my face, or stroke my hair." "I knew he was in pain, so I said nothing. One day, after he had gotten a sealed packet from earth, he called me into his office." Tears glistened yellow, as they dropped un-noticed down her face. "I entered and it was obvious that he had been crying and drinking." She sighed. "He was very intoxicated. He called me over to him. He grabbed me and started to kiss me. I tried to make him let me go, but he wouldn't. He just kept on crying and kissing me. Finally, I hit him in his groin and he let me go. I left the Embassy and I went to tell my brother, as is our way. He had given offense where none had been offered." "My brother is the oldest. As is our custom, I went to him to tell him about Ambassador Stranich." She closed her eyes in remembered pain and the sound of a sob escaped her tightened lips. "Oh, spirits who could expect his death. I have killed my brother. It is my fault." "No," Kirk stood up and rounded the table rapidly to kneel before her. He understood only too well the destructiveness of guilt and remorse. "No," he repeated more softly as he gently reached to hold her hand. "Don't blame yourself for the stupid, unforgivable act of another. You did as you were taught to do. Your brother did what he was supposed to do for his sister. He was not supposed to be killed for that act. Please, don't blame yourself, please." She looked at him, obviously surprised at his concern. "Why does this matter to you so much? We are unimportant to one such as you." "I know about guilt, Sera. It serves no purpose. It will not allow you any room to breathe. Let it go." A small smile started on her face, and it was answered by the human kneeling in front of her. He nodded and stood up to face Stranich, satisfied. Spock looked at his human friend. He felt a very un-Vulcan sense of pride in Kirk. The Vulcan looked over at Representative Stranich and saw him watching Kirk with something akin to awe in his face. He was accustomed to seeing that reaction when it came to Kirk. "I think that I have heard enough. I need to go speak with our Ambassador. If you will escort us to the Embassy?" Kirk's request brought Stranich back to the present, and he stood, somewhat hastily, to comply. Kirk turned to look at the young women and held his hand out with a gentle smile. She took it and he pulled her gracefully to her feet. "Your brother would not want you to continue to take responsibility for his death. Will you promise me you will forgive yourself?" She nodded with a shy smile. He turned, "Come on, Spock; we have some work to do." Title: Man of His Word Author: Istannor Series: TOS Part: 5/20 Rating: PG13 Codes: violence Summary: Diplomatic Privilege becomes the refuge for an Ambassador who murders. The Enterprise must solve the crisis caused by his cowardice. Feedback makes me sing. Chapter 5 When they reached the Embassy grounds, the gates remained closed in front of them. A message board flashed, warning in several languages that the Embassy security screens were on and entrance was forbidden. Kirk pushed the pad on the ornate pillar holding the wrought iron gate with the Federation Insignia. A voice answered. "This is Captain James T. Kirk, of the USS Enterprise. I am here to speak with the Ambassador. You need to drop the screens, so we can enter." There was a muffled request for them to wait and then the voice of the Ambassador came over the COM. "Captain, I am truly gratified to hear your voice. I regret that I am unable to drop the screens until I am certain that the Pranath are not intending on arresting me. I am sure you can understand my position. I will remove that regrettable impediment when a suitable resolution has been reached. Until then, you can communicate with me from your ship, if you require a more private location." Spock watched the command mask descend over Kirk's face. Whatever hopes the man had for Kirk believing his innocence was gone now. His Captain had assumed the look he wore when negotiating with a hostile opponent. "Are you saying you refuse to let a duly appointed representative of the Federation onto the Embassy grounds, Ambassador?" Kirk allowed a little incredulity to reach his voice, though nothing reached his face. "I trust your intentions, Captain, but I have no guarantee that the moment I drop the shields, the Pranath won't invade the Embassy grounds. They are, after all, a very militaristic people." Kirk could sense Stranich straighten in outrage beside him. He stared at the Embassy gates for a long moment, as if by will alone the shields would drop. Then he spoke, "Very well, Ambassador. I'm returning to the ship. I'll call you once I'm on board." He flipped open his communicator and had his party beamed up. A look of disgust was openly written on his face. McCoy was waiting for them when they reached the bridge, somehow sensing he might be needed. The look on Kirk's face was as closed as Spock's in his days of super Vulcan. Kirk sat down in the center seat, "Uhura, raise the Embassy again for me, please. I want the Ambassador. Make it a secure channel." Uhura's hands played over the board and her voice played a contretemps to the rhythm of her fingers. In moments, she had the channel ready with the Ambassador waiting. Her skill was a seamless part of the ship's workings. "Ambassador, I've heard the Pranath's version of what transpired. I'm eagerly awaiting your side of the tale. We won't discuss the issue of you refusing to let me into the Embassy until afterwards. What happened?" Kirk sat unreadable except to those who knew him best. It was obvious, to those who knew Kirk, the Ambassador disgusted him. McCoy watched to see why that was so. "It is quite simple, Captain. Ser Jardish, who does not even work at the Embassy, by the way, came into my office for a scheduled meeting to discuss his possibilities for employment. I welcomed the man, because his sister works for me. The next thing I knew, he started yelling obscenities at me about trying to dishonor his sister. The man attacked me, a Federation Ambassador." His voice conveyed his sense of outrage. "I did the only thing I knew to do, and defended myself. He was too large to attempt to do so without a weapon, so I picked up the first thing I could find, and I beat him off. I guess I hit him with a lucky shot, because he fell away from me." "After I got my bearings, I called the staff in. That was when I discovered he was dead. I did not intend to kill the man but I had no intention of allowing myself to be beaten." He looked righteously indignant now. Kirk felt a wave of desire to smash the man's face. His whole being told him the Ambassador was lying. Spock felt Kirk's desire for violence from across the room. It did not worry him, as his T'hy'la frequently had violent desires, but he had always controlled them in the past, almost always. For a human, his restraint had been admirable. "Ambassador," Kirk asked with a neutral tone, "are you aware that Sera Jardish has accused you of fondling her repeatedly. She said you assaulted her in your office while you were intoxicated." "Lies, filthy, politically motivated lies. She isn't even human. I couldn't bring myself to touch her." Sweat began to pour down his face and he hurriedly wiped it away. "They want to make this out like I had a personal reason for having to defend myself from this unwarranted attack. I was attacked while I interviewed a job applicant, Captain Kirk. The rest are lies to smear my reputation. They have never appreciated my talents here. This is just one more attempt to ruin me." "So, you deny any and all allegations made against you of sexual misconduct towards an employee." The Ambassador answered with a vigorously loud yes. "Also, you state you killed the young man in self defense." Again, Gringrich nodded, and said yes. His head seemed to be bobbing on a string. Kirk leaned slightly forward with a smile that had Gringrich known him would have sent him running for cover. "Then please explain why you refused to meet with the Pranath Government. I'd like to hear your side of the story, Mr. Ambassador." "I did not believe that I would get a fair hearing. After all the boy's father was one of their leading citizens. I still don't trust them. They are altogether too bloodthirsty. They will kill me if I drop the shields." He lip pulled to the side in a nervous gesture. The flush on his face spread with his visible nervousness. "Granted, you may have some reservations about the Pranath, but why are you denying me entry into the compound? I am not from Pranath. I was sent by the Federation to resolve the problem." Kirk's voice was very soft as he continued. "I'm sure you can understand what an unfavorable light this places you in right now. It's bad enough to have an unfortunate incident like this occur. I'm having difficulty accepting your reasoning for refusing me entry. Perhaps, you can help explain that to me." Ambassador Gringrich licked his lips, and looked away briefly realizing how bad this made him look. "I will be happy to lower the shields as soon as you give me your word Captain that I will be beamed directly aboard the ship and transported to Earth. I will not surrender my diplomatic privilege to the Pranath. It's the principle I must protect for the good of all the diplomats on foreign soil." "I was not aware diplomatic immunity extended to you telling a Federation Starship Captain you will not lower your shields." Kirk's smile never touched his eyes. "If I need to refresh my memory, please let me know. Otherwise, I want you to lower the shields so I can beam down. Your refusal to do so will be considered in direct violation of an order from a duly appointed Federation authority." "I regret that I can not comply with your request, Captain." He refused to meet Kirk's eyes. "There is too much at stake here. Policy and diplomatic tradition is on trial, and I will not fail my duty." "What if I give the Pranath my permission to attack the Embassy, Ambassador? Would that be better? As the Federation representative, you are jeopardizing the lives of all the Federation citizens currently on this planet." Kirk's voice rose to emphasize his points. "The conditions of the treaty are explicit. You have committed an act of war and placed the lives of every other citizen in danger. If I gave you to them, it would solve the problem. Don't you agree?" The Ambassador literally jumped in fear. "You wouldn't dare, " he shouted. "To break these shields, you would cause a devastation that would reach a five-mile radius. They would never allow you to do that." "But, you are willing to risk it, and three thousand other lives to save your own skin, aren't you, Ambassador?" The Captain trapped him neatly into admitting his own motivations. When the Ambassador realized that any response he made, that did not result in the screens being lowered, would paint him with the same guilty brush; he broke the connection. "Mr. Spock, send the code to lower the shields. Let’s see if we can end this debacle fast." There was a top secret code for Federation Diplomatic Starfleet use that would lower the shields of any Diplomatic Compound. The Code was only ever seen by Starfleet high Command and ,of course, the presiding Planetary Ambassador. The current Code for the Pranath Embassy had been transmitted to Kirk. The Federation had anticipated that one day, someone might take over one of their Embassies and raise its defense screens. In the event of a terrorist crisis at one of the Embassies, a Starship was able to transmit a code to lower the shields and allow beam in and rescue. Unfortunately, none of the scenarios constructed by the Diplomatic Corp, had taken into consideration that it’s own Ambassador would be the one to take over the Embassy and raise the shields. Spock transmitted the code. Nothing happened. "He has changed the code, Captain, as we suspected." "Damn, I guess that was just too easy a solution to hope for. Spock, you have the con. I want you to work on finding a way to break thought those screens that doesn't blow up the rest of the city. Uhura, get me a direct channel to Starfleet Command top priority and patch it though to my quarters. I suddenly feel a need to shower." He exited with the eyes of the bridge on him. McCoy followed beside him. For once, he had the good sense to be quiet. Title: A Man of His Word Author: Istannor Series: TOS Part: 6/20 Rating: PG13 Codes: violence Summary: Diplomatic Privilege becomes the refuge for an Ambassador who murders. The Enterprise must solve the crisis caused by his cowardice. Feedback makes me sing. Chapter 6 The ships of the Pranath floated up to take stations around the majestic Constitution Class Starship. They were ready to fight, and most probably die, at the hands of the heavily shielded and armed flagship of the Federation. The commanders of the vessels had all been briefed on the record of the Enterprise. Few held out hope of winning against its Captain, but they would die in the attempt. Together, with their amassed firepower, they would take the giant ship to the afterlife with them. They waited patiently for the signal to attack for the honor and the sovereignty of their worlds. Sulu and Chekov monitored the positions of all the Pranath ships on the tactical display. They quietly discussed tactics and plotted courses based on the shifting ballet of the corsair ships aligned against them. On Mr. Spock's order, they maintained a diminished profile to the surrounding ships to give them the smallest target in case of attack. Spock sat in the command chair and reviewed the days proceedings. He saw no obvious way to destroy the Embassy shields and he knew of no shortcut to discovering the code. It was an unpleasant dilemma. The issue of an Ambassador causing this disturbance was especially problematic. He could not imagine Sarek getting himself into this type of predicament. He fought down a sound of amusement. Actually the thought of his father being in an embarrassing situation was not all that unattractive, on a certain level. He knew the thought was not Vulcan, but Sarek was in need of a slight bit of humbling. Perhaps it would assist him in understanding the failings of his only remaining son. No, Sarek would probably still not understand me, he thought. I think that is too much to ask of him. However, to give Sarek his due, his father at least was welcoming when he returned home to visit. Sarek was especially solicitous of Jim, a fact that caused Spock no end of amusement. He turned his mind back to the Pranath ships, which circled them like a hunting pack. They worried him, but only slightly. Even outnumbered as the Enterprise was, Kirk and he would triumph. The odds were 236.87 to 187.35 for the Enterprise, with a 1.3% margin of error. McCoy sat watching Jim Kirk while he waited for the channel to Starfleet. He really had come in, showered, and changed his uniform, before he sat down at his console. Jim had been very quiet, which meant he was very, very angry. He was this quiet when he was afraid of where his anger would take him. McCoy could see him lock his thoughts away in the peculiar style that he had become accustomed to seeing as Jim's way. In many ways, he and the Vulcan were more alike than they were different. Kirk could be the coldest, most controlled human, McCoy had ever seen. It was hard to see this man and contrast him with the warm, thoughtful, teasing Kirk that was his norm. Once again, he wondered how such a dichotomy had arisen in his friend. "He's a very frightened man, Jim. You shouldn't hate him for that." McCoy spoke sympathetically. "He's afraid to die; most of us mere mortals are, you know." "I don't hate him, Bones," Kirk sighed in frustration, "I just hate the fact that he is out here in a position of power, without the skills, or the ability he needed in the first place. What the hell were they thinking, when they sent that type of small- minded, scary, alcoholic man out in space, to be in charge in the middle of nowhere?" He sat down in his chair and punched angrily at the com. "He has a personal code to the Embassy shields only he knows. It turns out the Diplomatic Corps never considered their own personnel might be the problem. Therefore, they have no fail-safe method to override the security code. They were so busy being paranoid about foreign governments, they never looked at themselves as a potential problem." McCoy leaned back thoughtfully in the chair. "If you can't get through the shields and he refuses to surrender, are we certain that the Pranath will go to war over the incident? Maybe they're bluffing, and we're getting all excited about nothing." Kirk turned to look at him. McCoy knew his friend had an uncanny ability to read people, and cultures. Maybe, the doctor hoped, he had seen something that led him to believe this was not all that bad. "The Orion Juskfsis cartel decided it would attempt to invade Pranath space and mine illegally for suspected deposits of dilithium. They were warned they were in violation of Pranath space and Sovereignty." Jim's voice was strangely distant as it recounted the story. The light reflected off the sharp angles of Kirk's face. He had never regained all of his weight since joining the ship again. Then, the following traumas had him thinner and more defined than he had been since the first year, of the first five year mission. McCoy still worried about him. It didn't seem possible he could continue to bounce back from so many traumas. One day Kirk wouldn't, and life would finally break him. A sense of foreboding filled the Doctor as he looked at his friend. "The Orions decided to ignore the warning and continue their encroachments, which resulted in the loss of the lives of hundreds of Pranath citizens. One morning, at 0600 Galactic Standard time, a fleet of Pranath Ships attacked an Orion settlement world without any warning. They killed every single Orion adult on the planet surface, and freed all the slaves who survived. They simultaneously rounded up and executed every Orion in the Pranath system. Then the Orions received a second request to withdraw, or face the second level of retribution. What do you think that would have been, if the first was the annihilation of an entire colony world? The Orions withdrew. This occurred 23 years ago. These people do not bluff." Kirk ran his hand through his hair. He only did that when he couldn't be observed by a member of the crew. He hated to appear at a loss, but he was. Without the code, they couldn't break the shields. Without the Ambassador, they couldn't find the code. He could have made it in any language, or even numbers, as well as a combination of hand- movements, and alphanumeric or voice signals. Hacking their way in was out of the question. Maybe Spock could work his magic. He had to hope so. The whole situation was making him tired. He could feel the beginnings of a migraine that he fought to push away. Title: A Man of His Word Author: Istannor Series: TOS Part: 7/20 Rating: PG13 Codes: violence Summary: Diplomatic Privilege becomes the refuge for an Ambassador who murders. The Enterprise must solve the crisis caused by his cowardice. Copyright 3/98 Istannor Stardust Memories This is set in my universe, slightly to the left of canon. Feedback makes me sing. Chapter 7 Uhura signaled. He flicked at the button and the face of the Federation president and Admiral Nogura came on the screen. Kirk signaled to McCoy that he needed to leave and the Doctor quickly exited. "Captain Kirk," The Federation President greeted him. Admiral Nogura nodded with an economy of speech. "We would like an update on the current situation." Kirk spent the next twenty minutes detailing his conversations and reviewed the taped interviews with Sera Jardish and the rest. When he had answered all of their questions, he had more than a few of his own. "Are you able to get me any information from the Federation Diplomatic Corps on the screens and how we can break through them, or access the controls remotely? In addition, I need to know what type of leeway I have in resolving this issue. Who is and is not expendable." "We are working on the shields question now, Captain," Nogura answered. "As to your leeway, the Federation wishes to avoid armed conflict with the Pranath, at all costs. They may not be a full voting member of the Federation, but that was their choice, not ours. They maintain their own military because we both recognized that Starfleet didn't have the ability to replace it with our own people, even if the Pranath were so inclined, which they weren't. They have kept to their own Law for the thirty years since we made contact with them, and two hundred years before we met them. The Pranath can sway the whole sector against us. We cannot afford to enter into either a political, or military, war with them at this time. It would be too costly in lives and influence. Their history of swift and overwhelming retaliation for treaty breaches, could cost the Federation thousands of lives, maybe more. To avoid that, the Ambassador is expendable, and so is the Enterprise. Do we understand one another, Captain?" "You are telling me, even if we are attacked, we are not to defend ourselves?" He asked angrily, frustration was building. If they had of thought about the implications before they assigned the man, they wouldn't be in this mess now. "I am telling you," Nogura said each word crisply and forcefully, "that we are so wrong here, that we will pay for it with our own lives if that is required. Not only are you forbidden to counterattack, you also are forbidden to do anything that would endanger Pranath lives and further escalate this affair. You are the one with the brilliant strategic mind, Kirk. We do not have enough ships in that quadrant to protect our colonies, or our transports, if the Pranath decide to repeat the same scenario they did with the Orions. If Gringrich, or even the Enterprise, has to be torched to prevent the destruction of an entire colony world, then you go, if I have to light the match myself. Do...I… make...myself ... clear...Mister?" "Yes, sir. Thank-you, Sir." Kirk could not keep the anger completely out of his voice. "Is there anything else, Sir?" He could see the President look over to Nogura, who seemed to soften visibly under his gaze. "No, that's all. Jim, I am sorry it had to be you to pull this one." Nogura said softly. "But, if it helps, I can't think of anyone else I would rather have there now. We have gotten rather use to you pulling a rabbit out of your hat." Kirk stared at him for a long time. This man had hurt him badly in the past. All, he had said, for the good of Starfleet and the Federation. Kirk knew that Nogura only wanted the best for the Federation. Unfortunately, the best in Nogura's mind often resulted in blood, and pain, for James Kirk, and the Enterprise crew. "We will do our best, Admiral, President Saran, Kirk out." Later that evening, his migraine was going full steam. It beat out a throbbing rhythm against his skull. He fought against the nausea it brought with it. He had reviewed the problem from all the possible sides he could conjure up, and still nothing jumped out at him as a solution. He felt helpless. He had to fight against the anger that came with it. He had never dealt well with helplessness. Even as a child, it had frustrated him to not be able to do something to make things right. His Grandfather's voice wafted back to him from the mists of memory. His Grandfather, the man who truly had been his father, for all practical purposes. The one man he had always depended on as a child. The manner of his death still weighed heavily on the man Kirk had become. He pushed the memories down ruthlessly. His head began to throb more. The door chimed. "Come." He looked up to see the other man he had learned to depend on, Spock. "You are in pain." The Vulcan's eyes missed nothing when it came to his Captain. "Just a headache. I'll be fine." He smiled to reassure him and had to wince as a pain lanced through him. "They have gotten worse lately. Here, let me," He touched a spot on the back of Kirk's neck and the pain eased to a bearable level. Kirk sighed in relief as the pain diminished. "I wish you could teach me that." "Then, I might be needing new employment. My usefulness here will have been lost." Spock's lip quirked. "Never, my friend." Kirk rubbed his forehead briefly. "What have you got for me?" "Unfortunately, nothing. Why don't you go to bed? We have three departments working on a solution. I think you have been known to say: "a watched pot never boils."." "I never say that and you used a contraction. I don't believe it." "Now you sound like McCoy." Spock riposted. "Your polluted speech patterns have no doubt contaminated my pristine syntactical skills." "If you are going to be insulting, I'm going to go to bed." Kirk got up and walked slowly over to the bed. "You know, I'm sure, what Nogura and President Saran said." He moaned in exhaustion, as he laid his head back on the pillow. "Based on past performances, I would surmise that we are on our own, with instructions to do nothing to escalate hostilities. We are also to retrieve the Ambassador, save the planetbound Federation citizens, and prevent war." "You only missed two parts. We are instructed to not return fire under any circumstances. We are to consider everyone of us to be expendable." "Indeed." The First Officer pursed his lips. "The future of the space-time continuum or the welfare of the galaxy is not at stake. This seems to be a relatively routine assignment to date." "Smart-ass." "Technically speaking, I would have to agree with you. That part of my anatomy is also quite intelligent." He walked over and pushed his T'hy'la back onto the bed. "Sleep," he commanded, "there is nothing you need to do, that cannot wait for you to rest a few hours. I promise to awaken you if any breakthrough occurs. You know your thoughts are far sharper when you are rested and headache free." "Okay," Kirk barely whispered, "you're right. Don't you dare say, of course." His eyes were already closing. Spock bent down to take his boots off. "Don't, I can do that." Kirk complained. "Shh, Jim, I wish to do this. Go to sleep." Kirk's only response was closed eyes and the gradual slowing of his breathing as he relaxed into sleep. Spock stood and watched him for a moment, enjoying the sense of belonging. Then, he left after pushing the privacy light. Title: A Man of His Word Author: Istannor Series: TOS Part: 8/20 Rating: PG13 Codes: violence Summary: Diplomatic Privilege becomes the refuge for an Ambassador who murders. The Enterprise must solve the crisis caused by his cowardice. Copyright 3/98 Istannor Stardust Memories This is set in my universe, slightly to the left of canon. Feedback makes me sing. Chapter 8 Spock walked down the hall, deep in thought. He had only been jesting mildly when he said this sounded like a routine assignment. It had become unusually routine for the Enterprise to be at the heart of pivotal issues or events. He once had done a statistical analysis of the frequency with which the Enterprise played a role in vital Federation events. The results were a statistician's nightmare. Spock had purposefully never shown the results to anyone else other than Kirk, who had just nodded in acceptance. No-one would believe them on first viewing, and the information would make the Enterprise the leading target in the galaxy, once the data was digested by their foes. This ship attracted conflict, or caused events to accelerate at an astronomical rate. At times, members of the crew had been heard to say that it seemed as if the Enterprise was the only ship in Starfleet. After he had finished the analysis, he found that their complaints were not unfounded. Starfleet had surreptitiously moved the Enterprise from sector to sector, in response to current events and prognostications of trouble. They had made the Enterprise the lead ship for the Federation. The Enterprise, alone, had participated in more pivotal events than the rest of the fleet combined. Now they were in the stew again, as McCoy would say. He headed for the computer lab. There was much to do. Jim would await his report, trusting to his thoroughness, and giving him no interference. Spock remembered the day he had told his T'hy'la that Kirk's ability to remove himself and let he, Scotty, McCoy, and other key members of his crew work unhindered, and unmonitored, was a Vulcan trait. Kirk had laughed and shook his head in disagreement. "It has nothing to do with Vulcan, my friend," he had said. "It's faith, simple faith. I trust you to do your best, and I know you will never disappoint me while any of you are still breathing." Faith was illogical, but to have someone have faith in him was…pleasant. He went to do his best, once again, as expected. Two days later, Spock still had not been able to find a way through the shields. The Ambassador still had himself closeted in the embassy. Neither Kirk, nor The Ambassador's staff had been able to convince him to turn over the code. Some of them were also fearful they would be included in the condemnation of the Ambassador by the Pranath, so their effort was somewhat suspect. Spock sat in the lab and if he was Human, he might have been described as brooding. He pushed down a wave of frustration, since it served no demonstrable purpose and began to review his tactics to date. The lab had done every paradigm that was taught to hack a code, and nothing had worked. This meant the man had not used a string of words and numbers in combination. The language was not the important issue, the computers already took into account all of the known languages of the Federation, its unaligned neighbors, as well as its adversaries. He had decided to try the totally illogical approaches to the code, also. The computer had 286.5 hours before all the routine patterns would be exhausted. Unfortunately, the Enterprise had nowhere near that type of time to wait. He also had communications and weapons working on a way to breach the Compound's shields, without taking out the city with it. They had already found several solutions that would have succeeded in breaching the shield… and laying waste to the majority of the city. Jim, had vetoed all of those suggestions, and rightfully so. Spock sighed and got back to work. On the third day, the Pranath requested Kirk to beam down for a meeting with the Pranath military council, later that evening. The military and the Senate had been in conference since the Enterprise had arrived. They had decided it was time to give the Federation their decision. Kirk called Spock for one last briefing before they went planetside. "Captain, we have looked at the issue of trying to pierce the screens or breaking the code that is controlling its operation." Spock paused thoughtfully before he continued. "We have tried to research his past history and associations for a hint of what he may have used as the code. Currently, we have used 2,378,567,489 combinations based on that information without success. We also have not met with anymore success in finding a way to destroy the shields without causing widespread damage to the surrounding area. It seems that the Embassy was afforded the best and latest in Federation technology for this purpose. We can not even use our previous ploy that was effective on Cygni 1 . I am regrettably at a loss." They were seated in Kirk's quarters in a last ditch attempt to figure out some way to get the frightened man out of his bolthole. "I know your people tried their best, Spock. Maybe the Pranath will offer another way out of this." He leaned back and rested his head against the chair. This he could allow himself around Spock, and no one else. He had not really slept for the last three days, except for occasional catnaps. Pranath ships surrounded the Enterprise. Repeated talks with the Pranath Government and the Ambassador had not resulted in any fruitful outcome. He had reviewed all the local starcharts to find any natural phenomena, or obstacles, he could use to shake off pursuit, in case the Pranath attacked. He had been ordered not to fight, no-one said he couldn't run. He was not going to give up the ship that easily. "I am so tired of this." "We need to have our talk." Spock stated quietly. Kirk looked up at him and motioned him to begin. Title: A Man of His Word Author: Istannor Series: TOS Part: 9/20 Rating: PG13 Codes: violence Summary: Diplomatic Privilege becomes the refuge for an Ambassador who murders. The Enterprise must solve the crisis caused by his cowardice. Folks wanted non-slash H/C. I salvaged this from my doomed hard-drive. . Copyright 3/98 Istannor Stardust Memories This is set in my universe, slightly to the left of canon. Feedback makes me sing. Chapter 9 Spock leaned forward in his seat. "I have become concerned about your recent change in attitude, Jim. You no longer seem content and you have allowed Admiral Komack and people like him to plague you. That is unlike you. I wish to help in any way you will allow me." Kirk gave him a smile full of fatigue and affection. "Am I becoming that obvious?" His only answer was a raised eyebrow. "I'm tired, that's all. I'm fighting on all fronts to keep the ship. You know they want me back on Earth. They say I am the best answer Starfleet has to the New Humans and the Human first movement. They want me to go home and be a frigging politician." He turned a bleak face towards the wall. "I won't last there. I know that, but Nogura wants me to take over from him. I keep telling him that I'm not the one. He keeps harping about my duty and my destiny." He turned to look at Spock. "The Stars sing to me, Spock. This ship talks to me at night. This crew, you, you're my family. Nogura wants to take me away from everything that I love and send me back to Earth, where I will rot away." "We will get a ship from the Vulcan Science Academy." Spock declared. "Vulcan will give us what you need; if not, my clan will provide us with a ship. You are Sarek and Amanda's son, and T'Pau's grandson. We are wealthy beyond any need to concern ourselves with the purchase of a ship. You continue to forget that you are a Son of Vulcan now and of my clan. As my shieldmate, you are entitled to anything the clan has, as you require. You do not have to go back to Earth, or Starfleet Command. There is always another game. I believe you told me that once." Kirk blinked as he tried to remember when he had said that. Suddenly, he remembered their first Shoreleave together, on Antares, during the first five year voyage. He remembered talking to a certain Vulcan about the cruel games children played. Regrettably, Nogura and Komack were not playing. "You don't forget anything, do you? You'd make a hell of a star witness." "Jim, do not attempt to change the subject. Since Renna left, you have become almost morose. I need you to address this." "Address what, me becoming Nogura's whipping boy? I'm that already. As long as I'm several systems away from him, I can tolerate it. You know what he told me?" He looked up at Spock with a wry face. "He said that anyone that can convince a Horta and a Vulcan to meld, and a human and a Machine to merge, can negotiate with the Federation Assembly. Damn, Spock. V'Ger and Mother Horta, both, had more sense in one molecule, than that entire bunch of egotistical, self-serving, lying, pompous windbags have, put together. I got the Romulan Praetor to sign a new treaty because I was out here. I can't do that on Earth kissing some politician's ass." "No, you cannot return to Earth and fill that roll. It does not suit you. You are much too likely to plant a foot in a politician's posterior before you would kiss it." Kirk chuckled and nodded in agreement. "I will go with you where ever you decide to go." "Then, I'd be responsible for ruining two careers." Kirk answered softly. "I don't want to do that to you." "Jim, it would be my decision, freely made." Spock pursed his lips thoughtfully. "Just contemplate the things we could accomplish, unfettered by Starfleet regulations." "Nogura would brain-wipe me before he'd let me go off on my own. I know too damn much about the inner workings of Starfleet, and I am one of the Federation's guarantees of continued peace from the Romulans." "Vulcan would not allow it." Brown eyes flashed. "You are a Vulcan now, and a son of the ruling clan. Nogura would not dare anger us." "Maybe." Kirk bowed his head and stared at his lap. "I'm tired. I fight, day in and day out, to keep the privilege of staying out here to fight day in and day out. Nogura wants to own me, and Komack wants to bust me. The Klingons want to cut my head off with a Bath'lah and the Romulan military opposition wants to annihilate me. We won't discuss what the Orions want to do to me. The thought of that makes me shiver. The women I love either die or leave me. I'm thirty-nine and I've got years of this to look forward to. To think that they say I'm the Golden Boy of Starfleet." He looked up at Spock with a crooked smile. "Don't you just love the irony." "We will take a Shoreleave on Vulcan and make plans. As your shieldmate, it is my right to be included in your decision." Spock stated. The quarters seemed dark, cold, and filled with sadness. Spock had always thought of the Captain's quarters as warm, bright, and welcoming, like the man that occupied them. "Okay," Kirk agreed quietly. He reached up and began to massage his temples. He had given his word and neither of them required more. Their future would be settled while on leave on Vulcan. The Vulcan stood and walked behind Kirk and quietly began to massage the areas in his neck and back that Spock knew, without asking, would be painfully tight. His friend had gradually become accepting of these ministrations, but only from Spock. He could feel Kirk begin to relax under his hands. The low hum of his pleasure, frustration, and deep fatigue was transmitted to Spock through his hands. The touch of a friend is a heady drug for a touch telepath. Spock touched his drug. Kirk had almost fallen asleep when the COM beeped and made him sit up instantly awake, and answer it. "Sir, the Pranath are ready for your beam down," Uhura's voice informed him Kirk looked around at Spock and smiled tiredly. "Come on, my friend. Let's go see what the fates have in store for us today." Spock followed his Captain silently out of the cabin. He fought down a twinge of worry as being illogical. Title: A Man of His Word Author: Istannor Series: TOS Part: 10/20 Rating: PG13 Codes: violence Summary: Diplomatic Privilege becomes the refuge for an Ambassador who murders. The Enterprise must solve the crisis caused by his cowardice. Folks wanted non-slash H/C. I salvaged this from my doomed hard-drive. . Copyright 3/98 Istannor Stardust Memories This is set in my universe, slightly to the left of canon. Feedback makes me sing. Chapter 10 Representative Stranich met them again when they beamed down. This time, there was a full military escort awaiting them. They were led to a different conference room in the military wing of the Pranath Central Complex. "Please be seated, Gentlemen. The Admiral will be with us shortly." They sat for a far longer time than "shortly". It was one hour, to be exact, before the Admiral made his appearance. A large muscular Pranath with some wrinkling and skin thickening evident to show his advanced age walked in alone, and sat at the table wordlessly. He stared at the Federation party in open appraisal. "Which of you is Captain Kirk?" He began bluntly. "I am." Kirk responded calmly. The Pranath turned his eyes on Kirk and lingered. "I was told by Sera Jardish of your kindness to her. What did you hope to gain from such an act? It changes nothing." "It changed how she felt. That was all that I wanted." Kirk responded, unwilling to respond to the slight. "I am Admiral Thratch. I command the Pranath military. Perhaps you have heard of me." "Yes," Kirk answered. "I have studied the details of your raids against the Orions, 22 years ago. They were brilliantly executed." The strategist in him was impressed, even if the savagery of the attack had appalled him. "I have also read the accounts of your exploits." The Admiral's voice was deep and resonant, with a hint of a lisp, as he spoke standard instead of relying on the translator. "I had thought you would be older." "I still hope to be." Kirk said with a slight smile. The tension in the room lightened a little as the Admiral chuckled. "Let me introduce you to my First Officer, Commander Spock. We would like to work with you to seek a resolution to this tragic situation; one that is agreeable to all parties. I had hoped we would be able to work towards that goal together at this meeting." "Captain, we are a proud and independent people. On your world politicians haggle. Here, I, as the leader of the military, have been chosen by our elect to make the final decision, because they could not. It is my men who will fight and die based on our decision today. It has always been thus. For all of our history, enemies have surrounded us at our doors. Our enemies have outnumbered us and often been more powerful than us, but we survive. We have taught all , that to touch one Pranath is to touch us all. We are known to answer force with overwhelming force, death, and destruction. It is our way and it has served us well. We will not be disrespected and murdered on our own soil by anyone, even the mighty Federation, of which we are but a humble and very small part." "Look at us, Captain. We are three small systems of several worlds, but we, the Pranath, have held our borders against the Orions, the Klingons, and the Romulans, for centuries. Our relationship with the Federation is an association, not a marriage. Our activities protect your back door from encroachment, and you protect our front door. We have a mutual goal, survival. In the midst of this, our merchants flourish and our economies grow. Our Law will always govern us in this system. We will never give up our sovereignty to a world five sectors away, filled with humans who do not understand our ways. We will remain Pranath. What do you have to tell the Pranath today, Kirk, to keep the peace?" "I understand your issues, Admiral." Kirk leaned forward and met his eyes. "Believe me, if we could find a way to do it, I would personally deliver the Ambassador to your steps, trussed in gift-wrapping, to answer to your Law. What he did was wrong and we do not attempt to excuse or discount it. However, since we can't undo it, I ask if there is an alternative solution that will satisfy you?" "A Life for a Life. That is our law." The Admiral leaned forward and looked at him intently. "We will not accept one of his aides or a prisoner you were going to execute, either. It must cause your government a loss equal to the loss of the Ambassador. Admittedly, one such as he is no loss, but his rank and position, and the loss of face inherent in his execution, is a great loss to the prestige of the Federation. It also says to all, that the Law of the Pranath is supreme and sovereign, where we rule." The Admiral brought his hands under his chin as he continued. "Who would you offer to us that would serve, Captain?" "Who will you accept, Admiral?" Kirk could hear the words even before the Admiral spoke them. "You." Thratch paused, and waited for a response, or a sign of weakness. He got neither. "We will accept you," Thratch continued, strangely satisfied, "in exchange for the life of your pathetic Ambassador. But, more importantly as payment for the life of Ser Jardish, and as a guarantee for the lives of your citizens on Pranath Prime. Your death would cause the Federation great pain, far more than the death of Gringrich. You are acceptable to us." Kirk looked him in the eyes and heard his voice answer. It was muted and distant. "It's a deal, Admiral. I agree." "That was fast, Captain. Are you so eager to die?" Thratch asked harshly. "No," Kirk chuckled, despite the situation, "usually that is the last thing I want to do, but if it serves the purpose, then I die." The Admiral sat back in his chair and watched the human Captain in silence. "Very well, Captain. I believe we have an agreement." Kirk could feel tension radiating from Spock, who sat at his side. The Vulcan knew better than to say anything here. "I must have guarantees, of course, that no other retribution will occur, and that you will not pursue the Ambassador or any member of his family, ever, for his crime. In addition, you must allow the Federation to maintain its Embassy, with a new Ambassador being assigned to the system." "Done. I will notify the Senate and have the agreement finished and ready for your approval." The Admiral looked at this strangely vulnerable, but brave human. "Do you have any other requests?" Kirk had bowed his head momentarily as the truth of what he had done hit him. When the Pranath asked him the last question he looked up dreamily. "I wish the execution to take place outside at night, so I can look at the stars." Kirk's face had a smile that was uninterpretable, but the Admiral's heart suddenly ached. He had lost all desire for this man's death. He nodded and left quickly. Something told Thratch he might even be giving the human something he sought: death and resolution. Spock moved to Kirk's side like a cobra strike. He literally had to force himself not to lift Kirk from the chair to turn and look at him. He did settle for turning the chair around to face him. "Why?" Kirk felt Spock's anger and his pain. He struggled to answer. He slowly looked up at the Vulcan. "It was the logical thing to do. The problem is solved. The case is closed. The Federation goes on." "I will not allow it." The Vulcan was past issues of command. He spoke as the human's T'hy'la. His anger was palpable. Anyone else would have only seen Vulcan blankness of expression. "You have no right to waste your life for a fool and a murderer. What about you needing to stay alive as the guarantee for the Romulan treaty?" Kirk stood up angrily, forcing Spock to step back. "You will not allow it? I don't have the right? You're the one who does not have that choice, or that right. I command here. I have made my decision. The Romulans gave us fifty years, or my lifetime, whichever was longer. I never was going to live another fifty years, Spock. My life is not needed for that peace to continue. It is needed for this one to." He grabbed the Vulcan's shoulders to soften the blow. "I will not have my ship destroyed, or risk the lives of every Federation citizen on this planet. If my life serves to stop that, then so be it." He turned to pace, with his hands behind his back. No-one entered to disturb them. "Spock," he faced him. "for all the years you have known me, I have been honest about what I'm capable of doing to achieve a goal. Do you think that I can only kill my best friend, a crewmember, or the women I love, and somehow it miraculously stops at me? We are all pawns. It's just my turn to be captured. Anyway," he said quietly, "I'd rather it be me, than you. I don't think I could stand sending you to die." "I will tell them it will be me, then. It is my fault that the code remains unbroken. I can break the code if they give us two more days. I will not fail in this, Jim. There has to be another way." Spock's expression was bleak. "With more time I....." He cut him off. "Our time is up, Spock, and so is mine. You heard them, we have no more time." He went to sit back at the table and wait for the Admiral's return. He could feel the heat of the Vulcan who stood silently behind him. "Jim, please do not do this." "Spock, I have to win, for us, and for the Federation. If it takes me dying to win, then I die. Please don't fight me on this. I need your support. I don't know how to surrender well. I may back out at the last minute and fight, out of old habit. I can't fight you and me, too." Spock did not respond. They did not speak again until they returned to the ship. Title: A Man of His Word Author: Istannor Series: TOS Part: 11/20 Rating: PG13 Codes: violence Summary: Diplomatic Privilege becomes the refuge for an Ambassador who murders. The Enterprise must solve the crisis caused by his cowardice. Disclaimer: Paramount owns the boys and the Startrek Concept. Fanfic writers exist to honor them. We promise to stay poor and let them reap all of the money. Copyright 3/98 Istannor Stardust Memories This is set in my universe, slightly to the left of canon. Feedback makes me sing. Chapter 11 Spock fell into his Vulcan disciplines. He wrapped them around him to cushion himself against the turmoil that threatened to overwhelm him. Kirk's actions were logical. It did solve the problem. It was within the constraints that Starfleet had placed on their actions. It would result in the Federation winning. Logically, he could only approve. Intellectually, he could arrive at no other solution. Emotionally, he wanted to confine the human, and prevent him carrying out his pledge. He followed as they went to inform McCoy of the outcome of the recent meeting. He repeated to himself again and again, until it resembled a mantra: I am Vulcan, I am Vulcan. He sensed it would not suffice. "God, Jim, let that asshole burn for his own sins. Why does it always have to be you? Why don't you let someone else do it this time? You are due it. They owe you big." Bones eyes were filled with unshed tears. He had grabbed Jim's arms and was squeezing them painfully. He wanted more than anything to convince this man that this one sacrifice was not required of him. Kirk had stopped on the bridge first and notified the bridge crew of his decision and requested that the crew compliment be assembled. He wanted to tell them the news personally. He owed them that, at least. Kirk looked at McCoy with a sad smile that pulled at the Doctor's very soul. "They never promised me that this job would be easy, or that I would live to a ripe old age. I did promise the Federation that I would do all that I could to fulfill my duty, to protect our interests, and to protect our people. You know as well as I do, if the Pranath attack the Embassy to remove the Ambassador, we will be at war. We can't sacrifice the sanctity of our Embassies and they can't relinquish on the integrity of their laws." He shook his head for emphasis. "They have told the Ambassador to surrender and he refuses. He won't drop the shields. There is nothing we can do short of bombarding the Embassy, to get through them. If he was out in the middle of nowhere, I admit, I'd probably blast his ass, but we can't take the city with us." "If you can think of something else, I'll listen. The Pranath want a life for a life, and all they will accept is Ambassador Gringrich, or me. Not any other alternative suggested over the last four days has been accepted. It is their law, and their right, on their planet. He killed a man, Bones. He doesn't deny that. He just doesn't want to die for it." Kirk began to pace as he spoke, his gestures and his eyes taking in both his CMO and his First Officer. Spock had stood stone still during the conversation, so far. "If they don't get what they want," Kirk continued, "they will consider all Federation citizens on this planet to be criminals and begin executing them all. There are two thousand seven hundred and twenty men, women, and children, of the Federation on the Planet. Do you want me to stand by and let them all die?" "Why do they have to outlaw the whole Federation for the acts of one man? It just doesn't make sense!" Leonard McCoy was a passionate, gentle man. "I can't believe they would kill so many people for a drunken murder by one man. Dammit, the concept is totally offensive. Anyway, killing Gringrich, or you, won't bring him back." "Doctor, in the view of the Pranath, the Ambassador is the embodiment of the Federation." The deep voice of Mr. Spock finally broke in. His eyes however never left the face of his Captain as he spoke. "If he was an ordinary citizen, it would not be anyone else's responsibility. He is not an ordinary citizen. He is the voice and the personification of the Federation on this planet, and he has killed. They expect him to be responsible for the consequences of his acts, because he has been chosen as the arm of our government. His failure is the failure of the Federation. They will not understand why he would refuse, unless it is the Federation itself refusing to honor their laws and customs. Therefore, either he or someone of equal stature must prove the Federation is in compliance with the Law. If that does not happen, we will be at war over the death of one man, and the cowardice of another." Spock's thoughts raged. He realized Kirk's decision was ultimately logical and unbelievably painful to him. He did not wish it. His mind rebelled against it, even as he knew it was the only solution available to them. Kirk finally went and took a seat over near the viewport to stare out at the stars quietly. His face was calm and unlined with worry. He had already made his decision and he was comfortable with it. He wanted, but did not need, his friends to accept it. It would happen anyway. The Pranath were within the Law of their world, and it was not an unfair law. The Ambassador could have surrendered himself to their justice, but he had refused. Kirk found his mind wandering back to all the times he had to make a harsh or agonizing decision. The list was long and very painful. He was subject to the same process as those he had decided for in the past. There was no special dispensation, because suddenly it was him. He was not different, or special, at all. Each life he had taken, or changed in the past, had been unique and special to someone. No, it was his turn on the wheel. He would climb on under his own steam. He turned around to look at his friends. He could feel their pain pulling at him from across the room, but there was no salve for it this time. He worried about them both, more than he liked to admit. McCoy continued to rant in the background, but he tuned the doctor out. He knew it was McCoy's way. McCoy was hurt, frightened, angry, and felt his life, as he knew it, slipping away. Kirk acknowledged that after his own death, Bones was in danger of drowning his sorrows in alcohol and never recovering. He knew McCoy would not really be tolerated on any other Starship. As much as he valued the Doctor's insights and open humanity, his confrontational manner would get him court-martialed elsewhere. Once hurt, Bones healed poorly, and this particular hurt might have him distance himself from all close relationships in the future. Bones was more open and vulnerable in their friendship than in any other in his life. Kirk had treasured it, but it frightened him now. Then, there was Spock. Kirk's heart contracted in his chest. Spock had intrusted him with his very soul. Kirk knew he was rending that soul with this one decision. He still had no choice. His command decisions always came from a cold spot in his soul that allowed him to do anything, absolutely anything that was necessary. He knew the Vulcan would leave Starfleet. Spock would never allow another to command him. It was not ego that gave him that knowledge. Spock had already told him he would never serve under another Commander willingly. The Vulcan would not change his mind. The only question was whether or not the Vulcan would retreat into his previous protective shell permanently, or temporarily. That was one question Kirk could not answer, for either of them. His being ached with love for them both. No better friends could possibly exist. He felt blessed to have known them. Now, he would leave them. He had given his word and a man was only as good as his word. His grandfather's deep voice filtered through his mind. The Vulcan's eyes pierced him and pinioned him against the seat. Kirk could feel his unspoken plea, to just this once, relent. Kirk could not. He would not. Kirk turned his back to him and looked to the comfort of the stars blazing in front of him. The COM went off. "The crew is assembled, Sir." It was Lt. Uhura. Her voice trembled slightly at the end as she gave her news. "I am on my way, Lieutenant." He rose with the athletic grace he was known for, and walked out of the observation deck. He knew the two who had stood with him would follow. They walked down the corridors of the Enterprise, his ship, his home and Kirk took it all in. He memorized each inch to comfort him for the last time. When he arrived in the Hanger deck, the entire crew, baring essential personnel, was assembled awaiting his words. He had no idea what he would say, but he knew he had to think of something. He had to make them understand why he was doing this. He had to make them accept it. There could be no repercussions for the Pranath, or it all would be in vain. Title: A Man of His Word Author: Istannor Series: TOS Part: 12/20 Rating: PG13 Codes: violence Summary: Diplomatic Privilege becomes the refuge for an Ambassador who murders. The Enterprise must solve the crisis caused by his cowardice. Disclaimer: Paramount owns the boys and the Startrek Concept. Fanfic writers exist to honor them. We promise to stay poor and let them reap all of the money. Copyright 3/98 Istannor Stardust Memories This is set in my universe, slightly to the left of canon. Feedback makes me sing. Chapter 12 Kirk stood on the podium looking out on the expectant faces. His command crew surrounded him protectively. Spock stood at his right as always, and McCoy at his left. They were his own personal yin and yang. He found himself smiling in pride at the faces of those before him. He had the best crew in the fleet, bar none. "I have come to speak to you today about purpose and conviction." His voice was quiet and calm, to his surprise. "We need to remember who we are and why we are here on this ship and in these uniforms. We are not here to just explore space, or to just police the Federation territory. We are here to represent and defend the highest ideals that sentient beings can ascribe to. We are here to say to the galaxy, as they watch, that we are who we say we are. We are more than our individual selves, or our individual goals. We represent the goals and the aspirations of the hundreds of worlds that are part of our family. When we fail to live up to those goals, we do not fail just ourselves, but all those who we represent." "Today, I have told the Pranath Government that the Enterprise and I will not fail our duty to the Federation. I will be going to Pranath in exchange for the Ambassador." A rush of voices met that announcement. "This is my choice, my decision. I want you all to know how proud I am of you as a crew. I could not have asked for a better group to work with and I thank-you for your dedication, pursuit of excellence, and your loyalty. I need you to continue in that same pattern of excellence now." "I ask only one more thing of you. I ask that you honor my word and my decision, whether you agree with it or not, and that you treat the Pranath, as well as the Ambassador and his staff, with the utmost courtesy when they arrive on-board." He paused, trying to decide what to say now as he ended his last meeting, ever. "May the winds be forever at your backs. May you honor your next Captain, as you have me." Suddenly, he had to leave. It became too much as he watched their stunned expressions. He turned and left the room, not wanting to face their questions, or their uncertainty. The room erupted with questions after he left. Mr. Spock answered them as best as he could, until the crew lapsed again into stunned silence. They would accept Kirk's decision as they must, but the anger at the Ambassador was a living breathing creature that Spock could sense taking on a life of it's own. He would have to put the man in protective custody when he came aboard the ship. It was the only way to save his life, if the crews current mood was any indicator. Spock left to return to his cabin. He required meditation. He had 15.7 minutes to attempt to compose himself. He would not shame his Captain, or himself. He would do his duty. He would decide how he "felt" later. Kirk retreated to his cabin and finished up the final things that he had planned before beam down. His will was already in order, as it had always been. Admiral Nogura had sent him a brief message of farewell, which was unexpectedly touching. Nogura and he had not always been on the best of terms, but Kirk did respect the man. He wrote a letter to his mother, his nephews Peter, Sam, and George, and his son David, to be opened, when and if, Carol ever let David know the truth. Then, taking one last look around his home, he left to go to the transporter room for the beam down. Title: A Man of His Word Author: Istannor Series: TOS Part: 13/20 Rating: PG13 Codes: violence Summary: Diplomatic Privilege becomes the refuge for an Ambassador who murders. The Enterprise must solve the crisis caused by his cowardice. Disclaimer: Paramount owns the boys and the Startrek Concept. Fanfic writers exist to honor them. We promise to stay poor and let them reap all of the money. Copyright 3/98 Istannor Stardust Memories This is set in my universe, slightly to the left of canon. Feedback makes me sing. Chapter 13 Spock was waiting for him when he got there. The Pranath had agreed to allow simultaneous transport of the Ambassador in exchange for Kirk. The Embassy was notified as to the exact time of the transport, so they could finally lower their shields and beam the Ambassador out, and off the planet's surface. Stranich would be waiting for Kirk when they reached the surface, and he would give Kirk an honor guard escort to the holding area. As Kirk waited silently for the coordination of events to take place, the door swished open and McCoy came in followed by the Bridge Crew. Bones was already tearful as he walked over to the best friend of his life, and hugged Kirk tightly and silently. Kirk whispered to him, holding him fiercely to keep him from escaping. "Take care of yourself, Bones. watch over Spock for me. I want your promise." The Doctor nodded wordlessly and rushed from the room. He could not stay and watch his friend go to his death. Everything that made him a healer, rebelled against this. His love for his friend made him inconsolable. He ran from Kirk and what the future would bring. James Kirk looked at each of the men and woman who had served under him faithfully for seven years. He couldn't help remembering their faces when he had first come aboard the Enterprise as a boyish, unknown. Now, they were his family. Uhura, whose open warmth and tender support had carried him through many crises. He loved to hear her sing. Once, they had sung together, when no-one else could hear. His tenor was caressed by her voice in a song only for them. He told everyone else on the ship that he had a voice like a frog. Only Uhura and Spock knew it was a lie. "Nyota, thank-you for your songs and your friendship." She kissed him lightly on the lips and reached up to stroke his cheek. "Jim," she said tearfully, "you have given me my home and my family, everything that is dear to me. I will miss you so. You know I will watch over Spock and McCoy for you." She hugged him and turned him to be hugged by Scotty. Scotty held him in a great bear hug. "Laddy," he whispered, " in my mind there never has been an' there ne'er will be, a better one than you. I would follow you to the gates of hell and back if you let me, and pull one last miracle to get you out of this. I won't forget you." "Thanks, Scotty," He answered. "Watch over both of our ladies for me." For some reason, those words coming from the normally gruff Scotsman rammed home the reality of what he was about to do. Scotty had never spoken about his feelings when he was sober. Uhura grabbed Scotty lightly on the arm and they left together. Chekov and Sulu came to him together. Neither was able to say much more than a whispered goodbye. Chekov felt especially torn. As head of security, he had vehemently argued against Kirk being the one to die. He had offered himself. It was his job to protect the Captain and he was failing. "It's not your fault, Pavel. This was not something you could do for me. Please, don't blame yourself." The Russian could only nod dejectedly. Sulu stood and looked Kirk in the eyes. "I was taught that among my ancestors, in ancient times, the Samurai warrior would impale themselves on their own swords for the honor of their lords. It was said that they would awake in heaven to fight gloriously beside their lord, and never die again. I would do this for you, James Kirk." He held his arm out and Kirk clasped it silently. He had no words to offer for what Sulu had told him. He hugged each one in turn, before they left him finally alone with his T'hy'la. Spock would do the beam down himself. He had asked to accompany Kirk to the surface, but the Pranath had refused. Kirk looked at the Vulcan from across the room and felt at a loss for words, and for what he should do to bid his friend a final good-bye. Title: A Man of His Word Author: Istannor Series: TOS Part: 14/20 Rating: PG13 Codes: violence Summary: Diplomatic Privilege becomes the refuge for an Ambassador who murders. The Enterprise must solve the crisis caused by his cowardice. Disclaimer: Paramount owns the boys and the Startrek Concept. Fanfic writers exist to honor them. We promise to stay poor and let them reap all of the money. Copyright 3/98 Istannor Stardust Memories This is set in my universe, slightly to the left of canon. Feedback makes me sing. Chapter 14 "Spock," He walked over to him and stood so he could see his face clearly. "I want you to give me your word on something before I leave." Spock nodded silently not trusting his voice. "I want you to promise me that you won't follow me, and don't act like you don't know what I mean. I know what can happen with the surviving shieldmate with the death of a partner. On Vulcan, the partner has been known to follow, just like with a full bond, voluntarily giving up their life. I don't want you to follow me, Spock. I need to know that you will still be here, alive and eventually even accepting of what must be. Promise me." Kirk's voice was filled with the urgency of his plea. He held the Vulcan's arm in a tight grip, admittedly unsure if he would release it, if he didn't get the right answer. "You have my word." Spock's voice sounded as if it was coming from a cave. Kirk felt his heart fill with fear. The Son of Sarek had not allowed anyone else in so close to his essence before. It would be so much worse for him now that he had allowed himself a friend and to trust. Kirk felt it was vital that he break through now, he would never have another chance. James T. Kirk decided to give a last gift, the only one he could think of that might save his friend from despair. He reached over and lifted Spock's hand to his temple, to the meld points they had used before. With all the urgency that he possessed, he opened his mind and his heart to his friend. He intended to finally, truthfully, pour out all that he felt for Spock, into him. He filled Spock with the pride he had in him and the trust. Kirk wanted to let him know how much he loved him. The depth of that love still surprised Kirk, himself. It was a love filled with a fierce joy that knew no limits. But, he held that back. He was still unable to share that part of himself, so he kept that behind his carefully erected barriers. He showered the Vulcan with hope for Spock's future. He gave Spock his wish that he know happiness and contentment. He begged him without shame, to not retreat, but to go forward. He felt Spock in his mind. Spock's sorrow that he could not voice was shattering. Kirk answered it with his joy. His friend was so use to hiding and controlling his emotions, that the passion of Kirk's emotions carried him away like a flood tide. Spock was buoyed along in the wake of the unconditional acceptance and love that he had always wanted and never had, until he met this man before him. Now, he would lose it all, because of a worthless coward that refused to take responsibility for his own act. He is not worthy. His mind shouted. The rage of ancient Vulcan roared from him and he hungered for the man's blood. He pleaded, then he could follow Kirk and everything would be all right. The thought of returning to his aloneness, his isolation that he had lived in before James Kirk roared into his life, was too painful. His hunger for release from life was met by Kirk's passion for Spock to live. Spock only felt pain, a tearing of his soul. His friend tried to mend what he could, buffeted by the anguish that Spock projected into his mind. Spock felt Kirk’s need and desire for him to go on, to live, and find peace, and he rejected it. In the midst of the meld, without warning, he reached for the juncture of the neck and the shoulder and he pressed. He felt Kirk’s surprise and anger as he collapsed forward, unconscious. Spock lowered him gently to the floor, brushed back the hair from the high forehead and let his hand linger on the human’s cheek. Here was the sum total of all Spock had ever hoped for, acceptance, family, and love, in one frail human package. He had no intention of allowing Kirk to die. Title: A Man of His Word Author: Istannor Series: TOS Part: 15/20 Rating: PG13 Codes: violence Summary: Diplomatic Privilege becomes the refuge for an Ambassador who murders. The Enterprise must solve the crisis caused by his cowardice. Disclaimer: Paramount owns the boys and the Startrek Concept. Fanfic writers exist to honor them. We promise to stay poor and let them reap all of the money. Copyright 3/98 Istannor Stardust Memories This is set in my universe, slightly to the left of canon. Feedback makes me sing. Chapter 15 His eyes never left the crumpled form as he beamed down ahead of schedule, to the surface of Pranath. Representative Stranich was there, waiting to meet Kirk. His eyes widened in surprise. "Where is Captain Kirk?" "I have rendered him unconscious. I offer myself in his stead. I am Spock; son of Sarek, Federation Ambassador At Large; direct descendant of Surak; inheritor of the house of T’Pau, Matriarch of Vulcan. James Kirk is the child of common farmers. My death has more value." Stranich looked at him in silence. "One moment, please." He left and Spock’s Vulcan hearing could just make him out speaking into a wall communicator. Stranich returned and stood silently with an unreadable expression on his face. Finally he spoke. "You must care for Kirk deeply to offer yourself as his price. This is not the offer of a second in command for his commander." "I do what I must." "Why must you do this?" Stranich persisted. "I value his continued existence more than my own." "Why?" "He will be missed far more than I." "By whom?" "The Crew of the Enterprise and people who care for him emotionally. I have no such illogical emotional attachments." He lied. "Who else, Mr. Spock?" "Your question is intrusive, Representative." "Did you understand it the first time, or shall I repeat it?" Spock looked in the other’s eyes daring him to look away. "By me." Honor bound him to truth. "I see. I grieve for the pain we will cause you, then." Just as he finished that statement, Admiral Thratch approached through the corridor. "We were expecting Captain Kirk," the older Pranath began without preamble. "I have submitted myself in his stead. The choice was freely made. I am of the house of Surak and heir to the ruling family of Vulcan." "You are also, definitively, not who I asked for." Spock began to speak, but Thratch stopped him with a hand. "No, I do not wish your speech, or your sacrifice. What I want is Kirk to bow his head to the law of Pranath. I want the personification of Starfleet to tell the galaxy that Pranath Law will be honored where Pranath rules. Your wants and desires are of no interest to me, Vulcan, nor your lineage. You are not the premier warrior of the Federation; Kirk is. You are not the man who has so often flaunted your vaunted Prime Directive, and run roughshod over the wishes of other worlds; Kirk is. You are not the embodiment of all that is deadly in Starfleet; Kirk is. I do not want you. A sacrifice by a Vulcan will not do. You, as a Vulcan, would bow to our will because it is your duty, and because it is the logical thing to do. I will have Kirk bow to our will, because he has never willingly surrendered before. Your death would not serve our purpose; Kirk’s will." "His death is not necessary. I can die for him and your justice will be served," Spock’s voice approached the intonation of a supplicant. He was as close as a Vulcan could get to pleading. Thratch barked angrily. "Who are you to tell us what serves our justice? Only Pranath may judge that, not you. You presume too much." "Admiral Thratch, my life as I know it, would be forfeit at any rate were he to die. You will have killed two. Is this the justice you desire? We are all members of the Federation. Why would you harm yourself?" "In this matter, we are Pranath. The concerns of the Federation are secondary to the concerns of my people. Your life is also not my concern, Vulcan. The safety and integrity of Pranath is. What weight does your life, or even two lives, hold against that of all my people? If we are seen to be weak, we risk all. Next, the Orions, then the Klingons, will begin to test us. I will not allow it to begin here. Go back to your ship. Send us who we asked for. We will wait." Thratch turned and left in dismissal. Just then the sound of a transporter activation came from behind them. Spock knew without turning who it was. He stood still as the presence came to stand beside him. Then, and only then, did he turn to face his Captain. The face that looked at Spock was filled with sadness. "They are waiting for you on the ship, Spock." Spock nodded mutely. He had done his best. "I thought you would survive my death better than I would survive yours. My actions were logical in the face of that belief." "You were wrong. This is my way out, Spock. I have given up nothing I truly value. You, Bones, the ship, and the Federation will go on. Now, I don’t ever have to see any of you die. I don't have to be grounded again. I have no more decisions I have to make. I have no more crises I have to resolve. I understand what you tried to do, but it was not your place. This is the hole I dug; I have to fill it. Please, go back. Don’t make this any harder than it is already." Kirk reached up and grabbed him softly by the shoulder. Then knowing that was not enough, James Kirk pulled his friend forward into a bruising embrace. Kirk felt his pulse race, as the Vulcan lifted his arms slowly to the unfamiliar position and wrapped Kirk tightly in his arms. They stood that way for a while, as each prepared for what would happen next. Kirk broke the contact first, stepped away, and smiled. The smile broke the Vulcan's heart, and left his head bowed and gasping as Kirk said, "Live long and prosper, my friend." He turned and walked away down the long hall, and out of sight. Spock stood, until he could no longer see him. The Pranath guards escorted him warily back to the transporter pad where he was returned to the ship. Title: A Man of His Word Author: Istannor Series: TOS Part: 16/20 Rating: PG13 Codes: violence Summary: Diplomatic Privilege becomes the refuge for an Ambassador who murders. The Enterprise must solve the crisis caused by his cowardice. Disclaimer: Paramount owns the boys and the Startrek Concept. Fanfic writers exist to honor them. We promise to stay poor and let them reap all of the money. Copyright 3/98 Istannor Stardust Memories This is set in my universe, slightly to the left of canon. Feedback makes me sing. Chapter 16 Spock stood and waited for Ambassador Gringrich to materialize. His heart was silent. When the hunched form of the Ambassador appeared on the transporter platform, the Vulcan resisted the urge to break his worthless neck. Spock accepted his anger and took it into himself. This too, was part of Jim. Spock wanted to never forget anything about him. Ambassador Gringrich used to be an arrogant man Now, he was simply terrified. He looked at the Vulcan and his fear was a smell in the air. Spock flipped the COM. "Security escort to the Transporter room." He said not a word to the man. The Ambassador stood rooted to the transporter platform, twitching anxiously. Spock could smell his fear and anxiety even in the midst of his rescue. There had been no odor of fear from his Captain as he had gone to die. He did not trust his abilities to speak to the human with civility. He would honor Kirk's request. No, he needed to know one thing. "What was the code?" Spock asked. His look allowed no options. Gringrich looked at him and pulled back like a cur awaiting the blow from the stick. '"There actually was no code. I turned off the coding and put it on a simple switch. All I had to do was flip the switch three times to turn off the screen. I knew it was too simple a solution for anyone to think of. There never was a code to break." He stepped back as the Vulcan took a menacing step towards him before Spock stopped himself, with visible effort. Spock turned to the wall COM and called for the security escort. When security arrived, he gave them instructions so that the Ambassador could hear them. The security team escorted Gringrich and his adjutant out and to their quarters. Spock had ordered the hallways cleared to assure that there would be no incidents during the walk through the corridors. The crew had requested that they be allowed to stand at attention in full dress uniform during the execution and Spock had granted the request. He recognized their need to honor the Captain and accepted it despite its illogic. He would follow suit. He left to change into his dress blues. Then he went to go to the bridge where he would watch the death of his T'hy'la. He now fully understood the term numb. Spock would complete his prescribed duties as befitted a Starfleet officer. After the…he could not think it. Later, he would decide what came next for his life. He did not think he would be able to keep his word. He wished to be with his T'hy'la, even in death. The burden of Vulcan called to him as he knew that it was impossible to separate his being from Kirk's. They were bound inextricably, even though the human had resisted the bond the Vulcan had craved, to the end. Spock knew that this was the very thing that Kirk had feared, and hoped to avoid by keeping his distance, but it was unavoidable. The pull was too strong. Jim, I will not shame you. While Kirk walked through the long corridors, Stranich accompanied him with a full honor guard, as befitted his rank in the Pranath world of honor and custom. The Pranath dignitary watched him, searching for any sign of subterfuge or fear. He saw none. Satisfied, he continued to lead the way to the hall where the execution would be held. Stranich had come to greatly respect this human. He deeply regretted putting him through this to compensate for the inadequacies of the fool, Gringrich. That man had no honor and was a coward. It was not right that Kirk be made to suffer for one such as he. Still, for the good of all, the will of the Pranath had to be supreme. The Senate of the Pranath had already assembled to await the human's arrival. They stood from their seats as he entered to give him due respect. Admiral Thratch saluted and stood at attention while Stranich led Kirk to the standing stone, where traditionally all condemned military and political leaders had seen their final seconds, for as long as the Pranath had written history and Law. This would be the first offworlder to meet his supreme one, from this place. The Senate had agreed that it was just and honorable to give him this privilege. He, more so than any other offworlder, had earned the right to be treated as a full Pranath. The site of execution was in a central amphitheater that occupied the original site of the first Pranath assembly, and the first Pranath execution under the Law. There was a giant dome over it, but in response to Kirk's request, the dome slid back as they entered, and revealed the twinkling lights of the stars of the night-time Pranath sky. The moon of Pranath hung as a reddish globe in the sky and filled the night with a soft glow. Kirk's eyes went immediately to the sky and the stars, and his face lit with a sad smile. He turned to Stranich and said thank-you softly, before he turned back to look at his stars. The shield went up around the central courtyard to prevent any beaming in or out as was their custom. They began the broadcasting as promised. Stranich and Kirk stood silently looking at each other as if no one else existed in the capital. The human was preternaturally calm, as if he had already passed on to the next plane. Probably, on some level he had. Stranich felt moved to say something to him. "We will honor our word, James T. Kirk. Your sacrifice will not be in vain. I wish you to know this beyond a doubt." The Starfleet Officer smiled slightly from someplace far away. "I believe you, Stranich, or else I would not be here. I have no wish to waste my life. I have enjoyed it too much to give it away. I trust you. I know you will not disappoint me." Stranich was possessed by Kirk's words. He knew he would die before he failed the human, or allowed his government to do so. He nodded once in acknowledgment of that fact and stepped away to move over to his place. Title: A Man of His Word Author: Istannor Series: TOS Part: 17/20 Rating: PG13 Codes: violence Summary: Diplomatic Privilege becomes the refuge for an Ambassador who murders. The Enterprise must solve the crisis caused by his cowardice. Disclaimer: Paramount owns the boys and the Startrek Concept. Fanfic writers exist to honor them. We promise to stay poor and let them reap all of the money. Copyright 3/98 Istannor Stardust Memories This is set in my universe, slightly to the left of canon. Feedback makes me sing. Chapter 17 Spock and the bridge crew watched with a painful expectancy. They did not expect any last minute reprieve or flash of Kirk's brilliance. They had never had to learn to accept death, or defeat. Their Captain had always pulled a rabbit from his hat at the last moment. This time, for the first time in memory, their Captain had given himself up to fate and was not wrestling with his last breath against fortune. They individually turned to look at Spock. Uhura wondered how he would fare, and she knew they all feared he would not fare well. McCoy was nowhere to be found. He had disappeared from the transporter room and had not been seen since. No-one knew when he would resurface. Their Captain stood quietly on the rock and looked out at the assembled host. He had a peaceful look on his face. They followed his gaze to the nighttime sky, where the stars of the Pranath sky blazed forth in all their glory. The executioner came to stand at his position and began to raise his weapon. Kirk did not even look at him. "Hold," Someone shouted. Admiral Thratch moved up to the executioner and pulled his arm down. "I will do this. It is the right of the military under the Law to ask that we declare him a warrior. I request full honors due a warrior. He is a warrior and deserves a warrior's right. He is no criminal and the executioner has no right to strike the blow." He looked around to the Senate and the military counsel and when no other voice was raised in protest, he replaced the faceless man. He then raised his weapon and in the ritual of the Pranath spoke the highest words due a warrior of the Pranath. "I salute you and your name is held in honor. Your pain and your life have meaning." Kirk smiled. The Pranath fired. Spock screamed mentally, his anguish almost stopping his breath. He shot upward from his seat as the beam hit Kirk in the center of his chest. Kirk flew bonelessly back to land in a bloody heap on the rocky platform. Time spread out before Spock. Everything seemed to happen as a cruel slow motion ballet. Kirk came to rest on his back. Kirk's face was turned towards Spock. He lay on the ground with his right arm crossed over his chest. His face looked like he was only sleeping. It was still handsome and marred only by a slow drip of blood from his nose and the side of his mouth. Drip, drip, each drip signifying lifeblood and a Vulcan's purest love. The word reverberated in the Vulcan's mind. The smoking flesh of the Human's chest told the Vulcan that this was not a dream state. Spock knew the picture would never leave his mind. It would be the veil through which all vision filtered, for the rest of his days. Jim had called to him as the pain had overwhelmed him in the end. The Vulcan could not breathe. He felt himself sliding away, losing himself. He began to follow Kirk almost before he realized it had begun. Spock felt someone shaking him. He looked around from a great distance to see McCoy shouting at him. He could not make out his words though. Spock could see that McCoy was openly crying. The doctor said something to him, over and over again. As he looked around the bridge, Uhura, Chekov, Sulu, and Scotty were hunched over their consoles in unrestrained grief. The newer crew looked around in shock. They waited for someone to tell them that it was all a cruel and painful joke. Finally, he was able to understand what the human was saying. The sound came to him through a tunnel which grew longer and longer as he stood at the command chair, where he had never wanted to be in life. "Spock, Spock," McCoy shouted at him again. He could taste the Doctor's fear through McCoy's hand where it touched him. McCoy feared to lose them both. "I am listening, Doctor. There is no need to raise your voice." Spock was surprised at how normal his voice sounded to his own ears. He answered to quiet McCoy's irritating shouting. Perhaps he would leave him alone now. Spock had nothing for him. "We need to go down there and get him. We can't leave him down there alone. We need to go get him, now." The face of Dr. McCoy was tearful and flushed. Thankfully, he had not been drinking. His pain had been too great to even open a bottle. McCoy had arrived on the bridge at the moment the beam hit his friend squarely in the chest. He had reeled with the sight. Only the vision of the Vulcan standing in the center of the bridge, lost, and the strangest shade of green that he had ever seen, had called him back. He had never before seen Spock so lost. That knowledge had made him move. He had promised Jim that he would take care of Spock. He could see the Vulcan fade in front of his own eyes. The Vulcan looked at him for a long second before recognition lit his face. Then, he turned and relinquished the bridge to Lt. Commander Scott before they exited the bridge. As he turned to enter the turbolift, McCoy stumbled, and felt the Vulcan grab his arm in silent support. They went to complete their final duties to their Captain. Spock never once looked at McCoy as they walked. Spock could feel his chest moving. He knew that he was breathing. He knew his limbs followed his commands, but they all felt strangely distant. Every last ounce of his Vulcan training went to help and sustain him. Vulcan's blood runs deep and swiftly. Their love once given, becomes an immutable force of nature. Their loyalty, once awarded, is a fact of utter certainty. Their rage once earned, flares into a fiery inferno. Surak's teaching helps to channel the tides and stem them from overturning the banks, but few outside Vulcan knew that. Few had been allowed into Vulcan's forge, to see Vulcan's heart. Kirk had been accepted as a son of Vulcan. He had won a Vulcan's loyalty, and heart. Now, his T'hy'la was dead, a smoking corpse on a stone platform. T'hy'la, a concept that had no human equivalent. The intensity of the bond could not be experienced by two non- telepaths. His T'hy'la, the person that against all understanding brought him back from Gol, died for him on the sands of Vulcan, saved his life, time and time again, and helped him to become whole, was dead. All he could feel was painfully cold. He had died on that rock with James T. Kirk. His body had not found out yet. Hopefully, his biological functions would last long enough for them to return to earth, where he would resign and return to Vulcan. He wanted to organize his affairs and leave this plane of existence to join Kirk. It was possible that he would not be able to keep his word, after all. The real question was if he would send Gringrich into the afterlife before him. It was tempting, and years ago, he would have declared right of Ascv'cezh. Now, it would not do; Jim would not forgive him that. Title: A Man of His Word Author: Istannor Series: TOS Part: 18/20 Rating: PG13 Codes: violence Summary: Diplomatic Privilege becomes the refuge for an Ambassador who murders. The Enterprise must solve the crisis caused by his cowardice. Disclaimer: Paramount owns the boys and the Startrek Concept. Fanfic writers exist to honor them. We promise to stay poor and let them reap all of the money. Copyright 3/98 Istannor Stardust Memories This is set in my universe, slightly to the left of canon. Feedback makes me sing. Chapter 18 The Vulcan walked through the ship with the doctor by his side until they reached the transporter room. Members of the crew came towards them to speak to them. They desired reassurance from their First Officer and their Chief Medical Officer. When the crew beheld their faces they also were rendered mute. The med team met them and joined them silently on the transporter pad. Spock and McCoy were still silent as they beamed down, lost in their own bleak and painful worlds. Stranich and Thratch stood at the beam down site when they arrived. They went to take up positions to either side of the two and began the walk to reclaim the body of their Captain. Thratch said quietly to them both, "He conducted himself with dignity and honor. The Federation was well served by the manner of his sacrifice." Spock struggled to respond. "I heard and acknowledge the honor you gave him." The Pranath stopped suddenly and turned to face them both. "You honestly will not retaliate for this?" "There will be no retaliation." The Vulcan responded automatically. He had no desire to speak with this man who thought he had honored his T'hy'la by killing him personally. "Starfleet and Captain Kirk's instructions were explicit." "I see." The Admiral leaned his head to the side and watched him before he began to lead them off again. They led them both into the deeper warrens of the Senate complex. The military guard lined the corridor and saluted as they passed. The medical team that trailed them to transport the body was silent and solemn. McCoy was heard to give an occasional sob, but the Vulcan was quieter than the moving air. They could hardly hear his footsteps. The Pranath Stranich turned to Spock again. "The Ambassador, what will happen to him now?" Spock shook himself and turned to him and slowly considered his question. "He will be transported back to the Federation where he will be divested of his rank as a Federation Ambassador. Then, he will be tried based on dereliction of duty and jeopardizing the welfare of Federation citizens, as well as actions which led to the death of a citizen of Pranath, and a Starfleet Admiral. We do not have the death penalty for Federation Diplomats, so his sentence, if convicted, will be lifetime incarceration and loss of his estate." "You would trade the life of your Captain for this idiot, and he will only be sent to jail and fined?" Admiral Thratch said in outrage. "My Captain did not give his life for Gringrich." The Vulcan almost growled. "Gringrich did not deserve such a sacrifice. Kirk gave it for the 2726 Federation lives threatened by the actions of the Ambassador, and to prevent a war. I would have restrained him personally to prevent this sacrifice for someone as unworthy as Gringrich, alone." "I believe you, Mr. Spock." He stopped at a door. "We are here. Before we enter, I wish you to know that I rather it had been done differently, for your Captain's sake, and yours. We had no choice, in the matter. We are all creatures of tradition and cultural imperatives." He stood aside and the door opened for them to enter. Spock heard the Doctor take a deep breath before he entered, to prepare himself. McCoy's only job would be to pronounce his best friend dead, so he could arrange for the release of the body. Title: A Man of His Word Author: Istannor Series: TOS Part: 19/20 Rating: PG13 Codes: violence Summary: Diplomatic Privilege becomes the refuge for an Ambassador who murders. The Enterprise must solve the crisis caused by his cowardice. Disclaimer: Paramount owns the boys and the Startrek Concept. Fanfic writers exist to honor them. We promise to stay poor and let them reap all of the money. Copyright 3/98 Istannor Stardust Memories This is set in my universe, slightly to the left of canon. Feedback makes me sing. Chapter 19 Spock and McCoy entered and crossed the room to where two more guards stood outside another door. Admiral Thratch nodded once to the guards who stood aside. The door opened and they entered another room. Laid out on a Biobed, was the body of Admiral James T. Kirk. They had put a bandage across the disrupter burn that seared his chest. Why, McCoy could not fathom. Dead men did not need bandages. They stood rooted in place, unwilling to complete the journey they had begun. Then, Spock walked slowly over to stand next to him and looked down. Kirk looked asleep, vulnerable, and handsome. Spock felt the last shreds of his humanity retreat behind his Vulcan shields, and decided he would never allow himself to feel this pain again. He heard a noise and jumped to see the right hand of the body flutter open. He reached out to touch him and felt...warmth. The body retained heat from the weapon's burning energy. Suddenly, the Doctor was beside him. "Move, Spock, goddammit he's alive. I saw him move." he pulled out his scanner, whooped loudly, turned around and called for the medical team left outside the first set of doors. "Wake up you green-blooded zombie, didn't you hear what I said. He's alive." The team rushed in and McCoy began barking orders like a man possessed. Spock stood rock still, not yet realizing the truth because he had retreated so far behind his shields. He was fearful that McCoy had finally lost his sanity. It was only the post-mortem shifts that sometimes occur with corpses. It was not logical that Kirk be alive. He had seen Kirk executed. Spock saw his chest burn and him fly backward from the blast of the weapon. There was no rational reason to think otherwise. He had felt Jim call out to him before he died. He was dead and McCoy was insane. If he stood still long enough, the doctor would come to his senses, so they could leave as rational beings should. The two Pranath came to stand beside him and watch Dr. McCoy at work. "He is as stable medically as we were able to manage. I anticipate that his recovery should be complete." Spock turned in confusion. "Explain your statement." His voice was cold . "We tried to do our utmost to assure his medical well-being, Commander Spock. We think he will do fine. What is there about our statement that you did not understand?" "Then, he is alive?" he whispered. "We are not savages. He did nothing to offend anyone on this world. He surrendered himself to the will of our law." Stranich stood proudly erect as he spoke. "We were forced to punish him in the place of the representative of the Federation, but we had no desire to see Kirk die. When Admiral Thratch walked up to the stone and said to the Senate that the man was no criminal, and requested their permission to give him full honors, they agreed. They gave their will for him to live. The disrupter was set to burn, and let him live. It was justice, not senseless vengeance against an innocent man that we sought. We wanted our law and our way honored on our world. He honored our ways, therefore, he lives." He's alive Spock had heard him say it and it repeated as an echo in his head. He moved slowly to the bedside trying to keep out of the doctor's way McCoy worked feverishly over the wound. Spock saw things from a great distance. Sounds and sights were out of focus and his thoughts lacked clarity. He knew there was something he should say, but he was not sure what. He closed his eyes and recited several meditative cantras. It helped him to focus. He turned to Stranich and Thratch. "I thank- you for the life of my Captain." Admiral Thratch stood quietly with his hands clasped behind his back. "It would not have been justice for him to die." He watched the Vulcan intently. "I know that now. My rage was against the Ambassador. My request had Law behind it, but no justice. Your Captain's sacrifice made my anger small and meaningless. I have learned much of your people today. I suspect Kirk's and your behavior is not the norm. I am correct in this thinking, yes?" "Yes." Spock responded. His stomach was turning over and his heart constricted against his chest as he started to slowly return to life. His voice sounded almost normal as he responded. His father would have approved of his control, even if the reason he needed it was suspect. "James Kirk is more the ideal versus the norm, Admiral. There are unfortunately far more like Gringrich than there are any that approach Kirk, but the Humans still strive for the ideal." "This has been enlightening experience for our people. Of course, since the Ambassador was ritually slain on the rock with Kirk's sacrifice, he is now dead to our people. He is a phantom, a specter. We do not hesitate to exorcise ghosts here. I would advise him to never set foot on Pranath territory again for his own safety." "Understood, Admiral. I do not think even he is foolish enough to return here, but I will inform him of his status. I doubt he will ever have an opportunity to do any significant travel again, since he will be incarcerated for some time." "Spock, come here," McCoy called. Just then, a mobile biosled was brought in. "We're going to transfer him to the biosled and get back to the ship, now. I'm going to have to disconnect the life support briefly to do the switch. Get behind him and hold him, while Mark and Jens get on either side. I want my hands free to reconnect him. Move dammit, Spock." His voice sounded joyful as he worked, miraculously, on his living friend. Spock ignored the cursing, it was McCoy after all. "If it would help, I am able to lift and move him by myself, Doctor, quite easily." McCoy looked up at Spock, knowingly. "Okay, it's a deal. We might as well use all that Vulcan muscle." McCoy directed Spock to where he would stand and began to get everything ready. "On three, lift and transfer. One," Spock bent and cradled his Captain in his arms. Spock could feel the living warmth of his life-force, cool to a Vulcan, but joyfully alive. He felt the low voltage of Kirk's essence as a background ebb and flow. He wondered how he had missed it before, but he knew that was because he had retreated so far behind his own shields that nothing could have reached him. His heart began to return to life as it finally began to sink in to his consciousness that he was holding a live man. "Two," his mind flashed to a remembered smile of welcome and a laugh that had given him a home. "Three," he lifted Kirk and held him protectively. He felt a momentary surprise at how light Kirk was. In Spock's mind, Jim was such an overwhelming presence; he always expected him to be a heavy one also. Logically, he knew it made no sense, yet the surprise occurred each time he had carried Jim. He lifted him, and if he held him a moment longer than he needed to before he lowered him to the Biobed, the Doctor never commented. As he settled him in, Spock brushed Kirk's hair back from his forehead, even as McCoy hurried to get all the connections re-established. The Doctor was murmuring quietly to himself, too low for human ears. Keen Vulcan ears heard snatches. McCoy signaled he was ready and they rushed out to the beam-up point. They arrived in the transporter room and chaos. It was filled. The entire bridge crew was there against all precedent. Kirk would have had an absolute fit had he known. At a look from Spock, they cleared out rapidly. They were off duty by the clock, and within their right to be in the transporter room, but Spock was still too raw to tolerate their open emotions. He stood aside as some of them touched their Captain softly and left. McCoy finished what he needed to do, and directed the biosled out into the corridor. Title: A Man of His Word Author: Istannor Series: TOS Part: 20/20 Rating: PG13 Codes: violence Summary: Diplomatic Privilege becomes the refuge for an Ambassador who murders. The Enterprise must solve the crisis caused by his cowardice. Disclaimer: Paramount owns the boys and the Startrek Concept. Fanfic writers exist to honor them. We promise to stay poor and let them reap all of the money. Copyright 3/98 Istannor Stardust Memories This is set in my universe, slightly to the left of canon. Feedback makes me sing. Chapter 20 The corridor was lined from the transporter room to the sickbay with silent crewmen standing at attention. They saluted as Kirk passed. The Vulcan felt their pride, their happiness, and their relief. The Captain was alive. The Enterprise would go on. The Universe was back in its proper place. It seemed as if the silver ship throbbed in welcome for its returning son, and lover. Spock almost shook his head to rid it of such patently illogical imaginings. This would require days of meditation to cleanse himself of the stain of such raw emotionalism. The thought leaked past his barriers Once they were in the sickbay, McCoy became completely the doctor and sent Spock out forcefully, but kindly. Spock found that he suddenly did not know where to go. He stood lost in the corridor. His mind cleared enough to form a plan for the next few hours. He turned to go to the Bridge. He needed to inform Starfleet, and then common decency dictated that he also talk to the Ambassador. He would have to have more control before he attempted that. First, he would go to his cabin and change. When he got to his quarters, he slid into the room and allowed himself to lean briefly, he thought, against the corridor bulkhead. "Yes..." His smile lit the room. He did not move for 22.3 minutes. "Spock," McCoy's voice came through the com. "He's waking up, I thought you might like to know." Spock was on the bridge for alpha shift. They still orbited Pranath Prime, three days after the aborted execution. They had been instructed to await the arrival of the new Federation Ambassador and they were to attend the installation ceremonies. The previous Ambassador was restricted to his quarters under armed guard. Spock had met with the man and found the experience to be most disagreeable. Gringrich was still suffering from a self induced delusion regarding the source of his problems. He had even had the temerity to ask to visit the Captain in sick-bay. Spock had denied the request instantly. He did not want Gringrich anywhere near Kirk, illogical decision, or not. "About time you got here, Spock. I was afraid lift off would occur without you." "Really, Doctor, your propensity for flights of fancy will be your downfall." "Yeah, right, well get over here. I want us both to be here when he wakes up." His face became serious, as he turned to face the Vulcan. "Spock this is going to be a lot different for him than any other time we have been here before. He was ready and waiting to die. Knowing him, he hoped that they weren't gonna kill him. I may really kill him for keepin' that a secret from us." The Vulcan started to speak, but McCoy held up a hand to stop him. "But, as I was saying, that's a very emotional experience, to say the least. As well as I know his psych profile, even I can't predict what the hell this will have done to him personally. Some people just up and change the entire direction of their lives. If a really strong emotional display is going to make you too uncomfortable, I'd advise you to skidaddle now." "I can understand your concern, Doctor. However, I have no intention of leaving. The Captain's emotional state is one of my primary concerns. As the first officer of this ship..." "Spare me, Spock. We both know that's a bunch of bullshit. He's your best friend and you care about him more than you'll ever tell this poor old doc. Save the rest for your official report." The Vulcan did not have a chance to respond when they heard a low chuckle coming from the occupant of Biobed 1. "Damn, pinch me. There's no difference between death and life. You guys still argue all the time." A weak rasp came from the Biobed. "Jim," they both said at once, Spock reached his side first. "How are you feeling?" Spock asked gently. "Like a horse kicked me in the chest, and then sat on me." He smiled and answered. His voice wasn't strong but it was wonderfully alive. "I ought to beat you with a bat." McCoy complained enthusiastically. "This last stunt of yours took twenty years off my life. Why didn't you tell us that they weren't going to kill you and put us out of our misery? If that wasn't one of the most..." "I didn't know, Bones. I fully expected to wake up dead." Kirk interrupted the incipient tirade. "Oh... sorry." The doctor looked stunned as the realization hit him. "Forget it. How are you guys? I'm sorry to put you through that. But, it seemed to have worked out okay." "Personally," McCoy drawled, "I feel like taking you out to the woodshed and whipping you with a switch for what you did to my aging heart. Spock practically smiled when he realized that you were still alive. I think his face is still in pain." "Doctor, if you are attempting to be annoying for my sake, you should be aware that Vulcans are immune to your efforts." "Stow it, Spock. Jim, I'll be keeping you here for a few more days. I'm going to need to regrow some skin on your chest. Also, you are going to be on light duty for awhile until you build back your stamina. Both your lungs and heart took a bruising from the blast. That's the story medically. Now, as for your emotional and psychological state, I'll evaluate you extensively before I return you to duty. It's not everyday someone has this particular type of test of their personal resolve. I imagine that it was pretty traumatic for you." "It wasn't traumatic in the way you might expect. Dying was probably good for me." "You want to talk about it?" "Maybe later, Bones," He turned to Spock. "You're quiet." "I am gratified to see you alive and functional, Captain." "I am gratified as hell to see you, too, Spock." He smiled and stretched. His injured chest muscles protested the abuse and he winced. "That hurt I bet," McCoy said dryly. "That's an understatement." Kirk turned again to look at his friends, thoughtfully. "Maybe I should talk about it now. " He paused to search for his thoughts. "You know, as I was standing up on that platform waiting to die, I felt this feeling I have never felt before come over me. It was sorta eerie, really. I couldn't get past certain things." "What things, Jim?" Spock softly questioned him. Kirk closed his eyes and pursed his lips and became closed off and distant from them for a moment. Then he turned to look at them both. "I was thinking about every place I've been, all the people I've met over my life, and all the things I've done. I was thinking about all the people I've lost and the ones I've killed. I think I finally forgave myself." Kirk cleared his throat. He turned on his side to get a clearer look at them. " I need to tell you both this and I... I hope it doesn't make you uncomfortable or anything. I just need you to hear it." McCoy came over and sat on the side of the bed. "Go ahead, Jim. We're listening." He watched the face of his friend as Kirk struggled with his thoughts. His face always expressed more than he would ever say, even to his friends. Kirk kept his own counsel mostly. Even with McCoy's urging, he rarely ever confided his fears or true feelings to them. It had been his custom to withdraw into himself to heal, leaving them at the borders of some undefined country. "I'm not very good at this." "Just say what's on your mind, Jim." McCoy looked at the silent Vulcan that stood beside him. "It's us, you can tell us anything." Spock nodded in agreement. Kirk sighed. "It's like my whole life had become a cosmic joke. I thought I had almost everything I ever wanted. I'd never lost and I'd never given up. I had been the best at so many things, whatever that means, and in the end I was going to get to go out on top, before I blew it. And when I stood on that platform, I realized that it didn't mean a damn thing. Nothing." He whispered so softly they had to lean in to hear him. "I actually wanted to die. I've been chasing death and begging him to take me. Dying was easier than facing the truth. Dying was easier than hurting." He wrapped his arms around his chest and hunched over on his side. "Jim, you've done and seen things no man has ever seen before." McCoy protested. "You're a bonafide hero. You've fought when everyone else has given up. I can't believe that is evidence of a deathwish. Damn man, you saved the earth at least twice that I know of. God knows how many other lives you've touched. What are you talking about?" "All those years, I missed the point." He faced them and his voice was hypnotic." If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal. And if I have prophetic powers, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have all faith, so as to remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. If I give away all I have, and if I deliver my body to be burned, but have not love I gain nothing. "Kirk looked at them in anguish. " Do you understand me?" "I'm not sure, Jim." Bones answered honestly. "You have plenty of people that love you. Shoot, we love you. And, I seem to recall you loving folks in return." "No, not really. I've been loving, a semblance only. But, I always held back, and waited for disaster to strike. Unfortunately, it never disappointed me; it always struck." He shook his head sadly. "I've had such crappy luck with relationships, that I forgot how to be close to people. I was the Captain, even when I didn't have to be. I never wanted to let anyone close enough to get a look at all of my monsters. So, I ended up keeping myself apart from the very thing I needed the most. I have never let go since Sam died, Bones. All these years I've been afraid." Spock looked at McCoy. They both realized what this confession was costing their Captain. Spock waited to hear Kirk's decision. He realized that a new era was about to dawn. "I just wanted you to know that I'm sorry for keeping you both at arm's length, and I won't do it anymore. I never wanted to lose you, but I never let you get too close. I never fully confided in either of you." He took a deep breath. "You are my truest friends, and you and the bridge crew are my family. I stood on that platform and felt stupid because it took me going to die to tell you that." He paused again. "I love you both, very much." He turned away. "You don't have to say anything, I don't expect a response." "Ah shit, Jim. First, you scare the bejesus out of me and now, you're making me cry." The tears streaming down his face made his words reality. McCoy reached over and hugged his friend carefully. "I love you too, you crazy idiot." They held each other for a long moment before McCoy let go to wipe his eyes. "Damn, there is never a Kleenex when you need one. I gotta go and get one. Ill be right back." The Vulcan turned to watch the receding figure of the doctor before he came to stand beside his T'hy'la. "During our meld I communicated my feelings. During our life together, I have attempted to demonstrate my feelings in my own limited fashion." Spock visibly fought the urge to run his hand over the bandage covering the ugly chest wound. "What I told you then and on previous occasions has not changed. I am prepared to become more open with you also. There has never been anyone else in my life I would rather share with. You are my T'hy'la." He stated simply. "Spock," Kirk's eyes were a haunting shade of green as he looked at his friend. He held out his hand towards his friend. "I am sorry for being such a selfish idiot. I'll do better; I promise." Spock took his hand. "Jim, all that I know of acceptance and unconditional love, I have learned from you. You have stood by me, while the new Spock was born. You have given me what no one else has ever tried to do. I have a space that is mine. It is a shared space, and you have never taken it away from me, even when I deserved your abandonment. I chose to be by your side. I will never regret that choice." Kirk closed his eyes tightly and inhaled softly. When his eyes opened again, they were clear and looking at his friend. "Spock, please, meld with me. I want to feel you in my mind. I need to feel that I'm not really alone. I need to know that I haven't driven you away from me with my stupidity. I should've told you what was going on in my head. I should've let you inside the scary parts, too. But, even knowing I was going to die, I couldn't let go. I ended up being a coward after all." "No respectable Vulcan would choose a coward as a Shieldmate, so you are obviously mistaken. You have never been alone, Jim, and you have certainly never been a coward. You were tired and now you are refreshed. Do not concern yourself with me. I will always be here, even when you are unable to see me. I can not be driven away from my home. It may not be the way of Vulcan, but it is my way." He said the last with a faint smile. The Vulcan leaned over and touched his long elegant hands to the meld points on Kirk's face. "Share all that I am." He commanded. "My mind to your mind, my thoughts to your thoughts..." Kirk felt himself fall into the welcoming mind of his best friend, his shieldmate. For the first time in his adult life, he didn't brace himself. He let go and... they soared. Had McCoy walked back into the room at that moment he would have seen something that he had waited years to see again, a Vulcan's smile of pure joy. Then, the shadow at the door that turned and receded must have been a mirage, because the Doctor never mentioned that radiant smile, again. And that, most certainly, was not McCoy's way. The End Higher Duty: Istannor , Author Therenna Al s'Trask, telempath, spy. :Higher Duty, Istannor Author Higher Duty: Istannor author The Bible 1 Cor.:12.28 45 1