STARTREK NOTES:  HI FELLOW FANS--THIS IS MY FIRST ENTRY ONTO
THE STARTREK NEWS GROUP.  HERE, FOR YOUR CONSIDERATION, IS THE
FIRST PART MY STORY, PART ONE, WHICH IS REALLY THE PROLOGUE. I CAN
BE REACHED PREFERABLY AT EMAIL
ADDRESS 35002_4035@UWOVAX.UWO.CA OR ON THE NEWSGROUP FOR ANY
COMMENTS YOU MIGHT HAVE. 
 
 
 
ALLIANCE
 
STARDATE: CLASSIFIED
LOGS:  CLASSIFIED
 
     The council room was furnished sparsely, with only the bare
necessities--a large black table and seven chairs.  There was the
smell of ancient death, of cold steel stained with the blood of a
thousand warriors.  It was exactly the same as the planet: 
Klinzhai, or Klingon as it is known by the United Federation of
Planets.  Every Klingon now in the room had known nothing but
struggle in reaching their positions, the highest of the Empire. 
From their birth, they had understood only hardship, but that
hardship had brought survival and honour, scraped and clawed from
their brothers, just as they had from their unforgiving home world.
 
It was these seven Klingon warriors supreme who decided the next
moves of the Empire, moves that could send it in war, as every
Empire planet had known only too well, or move further into peace
and cooperation with the Federation of Planets, and with humans.
 
     Kaarg, impetuous as most young Klingons are, spoke first.  His
was the ambition for Klingon to return to the old times of glory
and honourable death.  The way Kahless the Unmerciful One had shown
their planet:  'Fear but one thing--to die a coward's death.' 
Kaarg spoke with that fear, not just for himself, but for his
Empire.  "We have lost all honour in this alliance with the
Earthmen.  They weaken the Empire with their soft flesh and feeble
bodies.  We must be made strong again, we must purify ourselves
against these Humans.  They are treacherous, spineless creatures
like the Romulans.  We have seen how alliances of the past take
away from the power of the Empire.  We must be strong!  Kahless
would laugh in our faces...we act as old women!"
 
     Two other commanders, Kotal and Klorg, nodded their heads and
grunted, their lips raised showing a row of dagger teeth.  Like
Kaarg, they were young, having succeeded through extreme
ruthlessness and, of course, bravery.  Kahsa and Kohja remained
silent, for they were old, and had gotten that way by waiting to
see who would be the strongest, then yielding their full support to
that side.
 
     Khohli, who had been raised in the worst part of Klinzhai, the
outreaches, reacted angrily.  "It is well to speak of old ways, and
of glory.  But there is much to gain from the Earthmen.  They show
us ways of changing dead soil into living, of medicines--"
 
     Kaarg swore then spat, "What does a warrior need of medicines
or food?  Our little ones already begin to be spoiled.  They spend
their time watching little video screens and not learning the ways
of the warrior.  They refuse to join the Empire's army.  Is this
what you wish, Khohli?  Why not put on a woman's 'rehal' and sit on
the Earth planet tending for their little bloodworms!"
 
     Khohli's eye's grew large and black, as black as the brows
above them.  He angled his head down, pointing the long crest at
the top of his head towards Kaarg, as if he were about to impale
him with it.
 
     Kor, the Supreme Commander, had been silent until now.  With
anger, he smashed his fist into the table.  "Enough!"  Even Kaarg
jumped at the sound of the commanding voice.  "We are a people of
honour!  Even Kahless proclaimed honour to be foremost.  We have
made a treaty with the Earthmen, signed by this council!"  Eying
each Klingon slowly, carefully, Kor continued sternly, "Do not
underestimate these 'spineless people'--I have fought them, time
and time again!  They are equal to ourselves in battle--"
 
     Kaarg grunted loudly in disgust, growling to himself that no
Earther was equal to him in battle.  Kor smiled at the young
commander.  "So, there is one here that does not believe.  Let the
one fight Kirk..."
 
     Kaarg became livid.  "Kirk!  Kirk!  All I hear of is this
Kirk!  Who is this 'straave' that he makes the Empire bow like
'kuve'?  All Earthmen are dogs!  They are to be used for sport.  No
Klingon can lose honor dealing with the worm that crawls at his
feet!"
 
     Kor brought his face close to Kaarg, until his breath fell
heavily upon his face.  "He is Kirk, the one who has beaten the
finest of the Empire.  His ship is the Enterprise, and all know of
it."
 
     Kaarg felt a sickness rising in his stomach.  To see the Great
Kor, who had singlehandedly destroyed three Romulan ships with a
burned out cruiser be so in awe of an Earthling, made him utter the
worst of the Klingon insults.  "You are weak, Kor!  You dishonour
us all!"
 
     Everyone at the table looked at Kor, and waited.  Kaarg's
insolence was growing daily, but this insult could not go
unpunished.  He would have to be dealt with, or he would become
Supreme Commander, and that meant either him or Kor would be dead
by next day time.  "Kaarg," started Kor diplomatically though if
one were to know Kor, they would fear being addressed so, "you are
still as yet young in years.  There are other ways of dealing with
the Federation, other ways of defeating an opponent worse than
giving death, for death would bring honour to him."
 
     "More so to the one who killed him," interjected Kaarg,
boldly, "if he is as worthy a warrior as you say, Kor."
 
     Kor smiled once again, then continued.  "The Federation wants
closer ties to Klinzhai.  To achieve this, they will yield
considerable power.  They will give us enough power to take Kirk's
ship away, to drive him into shame.  Nothing could bring more
torment to Kirk then to take his ship away, to disgrace him." 
Kaarg halted for a moment in consideration of such an unthinkable
end for a true warrior.  Kor pressed his advantage.  "I have fought
Kirk, and know him well.  Think Kaarg!  What would you do if your
ship and your command were taken away?"
 
     Kaarg was nervous at the thought, especially the way Kor was
staring, as if that fate might also be meant for him.  The others
around the table, even Kotal and Klorg, murmured their
appreciation.  Warily, Kaarg did not answer.  He still was of two
minds, divided by his respect for Kor and the glory he had brought
Klinzhai, and the screaming of his blood for a warrior's death.
 
     "Well?" growled Kor, awaiting for a response from the council.
 
     "Kai, Kor!" came five voices of appreciative commanders.
 
     "Kai," added Kaarg quietly, still deep in thought.
 
     
                         * * * * *
 
     As the Klingon council was ending, on a lonely planet at the
intersection of Federation, Romulan, and Klingon space, a thin,
sharp toothed man was watching carefully for a particular human to
come out of large, star shaped building.  He stood in the shadows,
waiting patiently.  It was not until two hours later that a short,
grey-haired man finally exited the building and looked around.  The
sharp toothed man stepped towards him, a large hat hiding his eyes
completely.
 
     "Looking for a grav unit?"  The question was cold, without
emotion.
 
     "Yes, yes," remarked the man gratefully.  Speaking nervously,
he commented, "I don't know where everyone is today."
 
     The sharp toothed man did not reply, but he did note with
satisfaction the briefcase the small earthman was carrying. 
Beneath a Federation symbol was printed, 'Scientist S. Kennedy,
Babylon.  The Gravity Equations'.  He turned for the shadows,
motioning the owner of the briefcase to follow.  "The Grav car is
around the corner."   A lean finger directing the way.
 
     The man followed.  "Say, are you new around here?  I don't
recognize you."
 
     Through the shadows, an anti-gravitation rider appeared.  "I
am called Callix, Mr. Kennedy," replied the sharp-toothed driver as
he opened a door.  "The scientific board wanted to have someone to
ensure your safety."
 
     The words were edged with sarcasm, but the scientist, too
concerned with the heat, wiped his brow and grunted, "Home in a
hurry."

     I HAVE TRIED TO INTEGRATE THE STORY WITH THE CURRENT LINE OF
THE ORIGINAL STAR TREK AND IF I HAVE MADE A FEW ERRORS, PLEASE
ACCEPT MY APOLOGY.  THE FIRST PART WAS THE PROLOGUE (GREAT STORY
PART 1) AND NOW I GIVE YOU PART 2, SET AT THE GREAT HALL OF THE
FOP.
 
 
     "There is a new age upon us.  Klingon wants peace, our Empire
wants peace."  The deep voice reverberated throughout the vast
hall.  "The Federation has proven its worth and trust to our
peoples, and we honour that worth.  We value that trust.  We ask
one simple thing in return for our full union with the Federation: 
That James Kirk be dismissed from the Enterprise and forced into
retirement."
 
     The entire hall stirred, a thousand different voices from a
thousand different Federation planets murmuring to one another. 
The large blue 'Federation of Planets" flag seemed to waver in
agreement.  The Klingon ambassador waited for silence. He
continued, "We have asked, in the past, for the death of this man. 
For his imprisonment.  But now, we ask only that he, and the legend
he has created, be forgotten.  James Kirk has angered every Klingon
commander in the Empire...and there are bitter feelings."  Deep
black eyebrows knitted together almost passionately.  "He has
angered many others as well, some from your own Federation."  A few
scattered grunts of approval could clearly be heard.  "Is it not
time that you allow us to forget the past conflicts between the
Federation and our Empire?  Please realize that the embodiment of
those conflicts lives as a man--as James Kirk.  We can never truly
have peace until those wounds are healed."
 
     The Klingon ambassador played his final card.  "What is most
disturbing of all, however, is the gathering support for a renewed
Klingon/Romulan treaty, and I, though a Klingon warrior in my own
right, dread of what consequenses such a treaty would bode for the
future place in the galaxy of the United Federation of Planets
should our pleas come to no avail this day.  Therefore, I ask
humbly, for the peace of the galaxy and the promised union of two
great Empires, for the Federation and for Klingon, help us to
forget the battles of yesterday, help us to forget James Kirk."
 
     The entire hall of the Federation Council was buzzing.  The
ambassador, head bowed for effect, returned to his seat.  He had
been very effective, he knew it.  Now let his words go to work and
achieve what no other being in the galaxy could do:  the separation
of James Kirk and the Enterprise.  
 
                              * * *
 
     Kirk's eyes fell.  They shouldn't have, not after all these
years.  He should have expected it from Starfleet, they had never
given him anything but problems.
 
     "...so it must be considered.  Jim...we won't force you,
you've done too much for us, but if you think about it, it is for
the best.  The times of war have passed."  'Jim'...how many
admirals, how many Council seaters have all called him Jim, as
though they had been childhood friends.  There were only a very few
people in this universe that he felt good about calling him Jim,
and Admiral Stralk was not one of them.
 
     "Admiral, if Starfleet has decided, then I won't put up a
fight.  It just would be nice-"
 
     "No one will force you, Jim," the Admiral continued,
placatingly.  It will be your decision, no one else's.  But there
is the very real possibility that what you decide will affect
galactic peace for the next thousand years.  Is one man's pride
worth the risk of a galactic war, worth billions of lives?  In the
end, you will have to decide.  Starfleet out."
 
     'Starfleet out', there was a little irony in signing off that
way.  The captain's quarters door buzzed.
 
     "Come."
 
     "Well, Jim?"
 
     "Bones, if I told you that I have an overwhelming need to be
ten billion miles away from here, in a place where there's only me,
a sailing ship, a big wide ocean, and a remote, admiral-less island
to be found, what would you think?"
 
     "So it's true."
 
     Kirk's mouth curled up to one side and McCoy knew.
 
     "Blasted Starfleet!  They can't ask you to do this, Jim!  You
can't ask a man to give his entire life saving the galaxy every
other week and then take it all away from him!"
 
     Kirk smiled inwardly.  He knew McCoy would react that way and
he was grateful.  "Bones, am I so important?  Is it so much
different than giving your life to stop a war?  I was prepared to
do that countless times."
 
     "But this is different, Jim!  They want to rewrite history--
like you and everything you did never existed, just to soothe the
honour of a few Klingons.  You beat them, and since they couldn't
destroy you, they have to wipe your memory clean away!  Damn it,
Jim, it's not right!  You know it's not!"
 
     Kirk sighed.  McCoy was right, but he was wrong too.  "I know
what you would do if given the same choice, Bones."
 
     McCoy felt a point scored.  He tried a new strategy.  "So you
let them wipe out the name of James T. Kirk.  The Federation
council erases all the computer records of every mission you led so
the Klingons can be happy.  Now peace reigns supreme in the galaxy,
and all the bad things the Klingons ever did are forgotten.  Then
what do they do with you?  Wave you away so they don't have to give
you a pension?"  McCoy was breathing heavily.  He leaned over his
Captain and placed a hand on a stiff shoulder.  "Jim, you stood for
something.  You're a legend--a hero to countless beings across the
universe.  What will they think when there's no more Jim Kirk? 
Will they understand?"
 
     "The universe is a big place, Bones.  And people forget..."
 
     McCoy let Kirk's words trail off without a reply.  Instead, he
went over to the cabinet, punched a few buttons, and pulled out two
glasses and a bottle of Saurian brandy.  Just what the Doctor
ordered, McCoy thought to himself as he poured two full drinks.
 
                              * * *
    
     The Romulan war room was extremely hot, by earth standards. 
Much like Vulcan, Romulus cracked and sputtered under the nearby
sun's rays, unless under the shadow of its companion planet, Remus. 
Tulak, the acknowledged successor to the Praetor spoke, his voice
grave.  "We have confirmation now, there is no doubt.  The
Federation scientist Kennedy has discovered a method to convert
gravimetric force into utilizable energy."  The Romulan commander
halted for a moment as the others murmured amongst themselves.  The
sun gleamed strong behind him in the window.  Remus was not yet
visible, nor would it be for another hour.  He continued after
quiet fell.  "Yet further, there is a major 'koti stal', a black
star, nearby.  The scientist Kennedy's next step was to build a
functional converter using the black star's enormous gravitational
force.  If his theory is indeed correct, there would be enough
convertible energy to move an entire planet."
 
     The war room erupted in a fervent discussion.  Tulak waited
until only a few whispers could be perceived.  Someone shouted, "We
must act quickly, before the Federation and the Klingons use the
device to destroy our Empire!"
 
     The room erupted again in loud discussion.  Tulak waited until
it was appropriate to speak again.  "I agree that we must act
quickly and with force."  There were several murmurs of
endorsement.  "But we must also act honorably first and foremost. 
There can be no question of threat if the scientist Kennedy's
equations can be used to utilize the black star's great
gravitational force.  Yet we must remember, the Earthmen have made
no secret of their work.  Why would they develop such powerful
knowledge on a planet with Romulan, Klingon and Federation
scientists?  It does not seem logical."
 
     Another member spoke out.  "Perhaps the Earth scientist
discovered the knowledge by accident?"
 
     Tulak acknowledged the comment with a smile.  "This may be so,
but the scientist Kennedy worked with a fellow Romulan scientist. 
It may indeed be possible that we are the first of the three
Empires to have full knowledge of their work."
 
     "Then we must take this scientist Kennedy and develop the
weapon for ourselves!" cried another.
 
     Tulak raised a hand to silence the room.  "Unfortunately, an
agent destroyed the scientist in an escape attempt.  It was not
intentional, nor was it discovered by the Federation.  He is
presumed missing somewhere past outer Babylon.  Our Romulan
scientists are only now beginning to understand his equations and
their military applications.  There is much doubt as to their
actual capacity for use with a black star.  Even so, to start
another war with the Earthmen would be foolish at this point.  They
are said to be fully allied with Klinzhai, but we do not know the
strength of this alliance.  As Praetor-to-be, I will personally
command a full squadron of Birds-of-Prey.  We will go to Tridare,
and we will wait for the Earthmen to come.  Then we shall see. 
Perhaps it is best to study the situation before acting rashly."
 
     "What if the Earthmen attack?" someone asked.
 
     Tulak nodded gravely.  "The responsibility will be mine alone. 
If we are destroyed, then we will know the Earthmen are the
stronger for the moment.  This will give us time to prepare.  But
it is my hope that we too may form an alliance with the Federation,
perhaps to the disadvantage of the Klinzhai.  The Earthmen have one
point in their favour:  The strength of the alliance with our
brothers the Vulcans.  Perhaps there is a place for us as well.  We
will go to Tridare and we will wait."
 
                              * * *
 
     "Status, Mr. Chekov."  Kirk eased into the captain's chair. 
In the background he could hear the continuous calls of each
section reporting in.  He listened, but only with his sixth sense.
 
     "Everything's operating within normal parameters, Kaptin.  We
are due to rendezvous with the Avenger in two hours, twenty-six
minutes."
 
     "Thank-you, Mr. Chekov."  Without even looking, Kirk could
feel Spock would be over to side within a few seconds.  "Well,
Spock, what's going on now?"
 
     Spock was there and he was ready.  "The Avenger is a prototype
class 1-D.  We're to observe it in a mock battle situation and note
its performance."
 
     "A 1-D, Spock?  That's fighter class.  What's the Federation
doing building 1-D fighting ships?"
 
     "An excellent question, Captain.  From Starfleet reports, it
was built in anticipation of increased Klingon and Romulan
hostilities.  But with the onset of peace with the Klingons, it
appears it will be the only one of its kind."
 
     "So it was built before the admission of Klingon to the
Federation?"
 
     "Officially, yes."
 
     "Officially, Mr. Spock?  And of course they just couldn't
scrap her once she was built.  Let's have a look."  Kirk slid out
of the captain's chair to a screen near the science station. 
Spock's fingers graced several buttons and a schematic of the
Avenger immediately appeared.
 
     "I've never seen anything like it.  Look at that, Mr. Spock!" 
Kirk's face registered his admiration.  The Avenger was clearly an
attack ship, with its hawk-like front and lean design, a design
partial to speed and maneuverability.
 
     "It is state of the art, Captain, with warp 9.98 capacity."
 
     "Who's her Captain?"
 
     Spock shifted his feet unnaturally but did not respond.
 
     "Spock," the Captain remarked, failing to notice the Vulcan
had not answered his question, "doesn't the lower shell look a
little too close to an old style Romulan bird of prey?  And look at
the bridge!  Spock, that's the most menacing ship I've ever seen--
are you sure that's one of ours?"
 
     "Indeed, Captain, the Federation wanted a pure fighting
machine.  The Romulan resemblance is no mistake.  Nor is the hawk-
like projection which contains the bridge--in its beak, you might
say, Jim."
 
     "Did they go as far as a cloaking device?"
 
     "Not precisely.  Although the basic colour is white, as all
Federation starships, the Avenger contains a unique sensor-
distortion field enabling the ship to project, or to be more
precise, register a blurred image on a sensor scan.  On a screen,
the ship would appear a hazy blue."
 
     "So if it were to be fired upon..." picked up Kirk.
 
     "...the attacking vessel would have great difficulty managing
a direct hit," finished Spock.  "It was basically a trade off
between power consumption and cloaking capability.  With this
system, the Avenger is able to attack while in distortion mode,
unlike a cloaked vessel."
 
     "You sound as though you approve, Spock."
 
     "Not approval, Captain.  Purely a scientific interest."
 
     Kirk nodded an "of course".  The military part of him watched
the specs of the weaponry with fascination, and he felt a rush of
power at the thought of controlling such a ship.  With the improved
phaser and torpedo capacity, there was also a new proto-plasma
energy cannon.
 
     Spock observed the Captain's interest in the device.  "Yes,
Captain, much like the older Romulan version.  While its
dissipation potential was only marginally decreased, delivery time
was reduced by thirty-seven point three six two percent."
 
     "You get hit more than once by that thing, and I don't care
what kind of shielding you have, your ship is in trouble."
 
     "Quite, Captain.  It appears to be a most efficient fighting
machine."
 
     "Do you think it will ever see action, Spock?"
 
     "In the interest of peace, I hope not."
 
     "Hope, Spock?"
 
     Spock's face appeared grave.  "Even the knowledge of its
existence could bring about an undesirable escalation in military
capability."
 
     Kirk understood.  It was a ship that should not have been
built.  It was not the Federation way to advance an arms race, even
if the Avenger had been built in a period of strained galactic
relations.  "And they still want us to test her out, Spock?"
 
     "Evidently, Captain.  Those were Starfleet orders."
 
     "Starfleet..." muttered Kirk, as if swearing.
 
     "Captain, I believe you are overdue for a meeting with Mr.
Sulu in the simulation chamber," reminded Spock, halting Kirk's
present train of thought.
 
     "Yes, Mr. Sulu.  See that we arrive on schedule with the
Avenger, Mr. Spock.  You have the conn."
 
                              * * *
 
     Two ships hovered near the Enterprise with anger.  They were
full Romulan battlecruisers, and they meant trouble.  With deft
fingering, Sulu guided the Enterprise with the standard evasive
manuevers.  Two streams of light issued from the ship on the right. 
Even Sulu, with his experience, could not bring the Enterprise
about to avoid being struck.  The bolts shook him in his seat. 
Starboard shields were reduced by fifty percent.  There was no
alternative.  Destroy the two Romulans, or be destroyed.  He could
not run.
 
     With icy calmness, Sulu plotted a micro-second warp burst. 
Then another.  Then another.  An almost perfect ellipse about the
two alien warships.  He shook again from two more hits.  Forward
shields down seventy-five percent.  It was time to engage the
plotted course--but would the ship do what he asked?  Scotty would
be spitting nails if he knew.
 
     The Enterprise shifted from being stationary to warp one then
a dead stop.  It was a micro-second of power.  Sulu hit the phaser
button.  A stream of light ripped into the Romulan on the left
creating a burst of rainbow colour on contact with its shields. 
Another micro-warp, another blast.  This time the phasers cut into
metal.  Micro-warp.  Sulu shifted his hand to the torpedo release,
shot one, went back to the phasers, fired a burst at the other
Romulan, fought back his rising nausea, and went into another warp
burst.
 
     There was a spectacular explosion almost blinding him.  But he
didn't need his eyes.  His hands continued mechanically.  A phaser
shot, then a warp burst.  There was only one Romulan ship left.  He
came out of the final warp burst with the ship's guns blazing.  The
Romulan ship was cut to pieces, several parts of the engineering
section falling away to the empty space leaving the main portions
of the alien ship and the surviving people within, helpless. 
Sensors read multiple explosions within, life supports systems
inoperative with weapons capacity and ship maneuverability long
since lost.  Smiling coolly, Sulu programed another torpedo for
release.  Without hesitation, he blew the near-dead ship to pieces.
 
     "Sulu!"
 
     The lights came on and Kirk charged into the room.  "What
happened to the concept of surrender?" he demanded, more shocked
than angry.
 
     "Captain--"  Sulu began hesitantly.  He had not realized Kirk
had been watching.
 
     Kirk waited for an answer.  He wasn't going to let Sulu off
the hook.
 
     "As you know, Captain," the helm master continued awkwardly,
"Romulans have a strict code of honour.  They would have destroyed
themselves rather then surrender.  I only wanted to save them the
embarrassment."
 
     Kirk lifted his head with suspicion.  It was a lame excuse. 
"Mr. Sulu, I will assume that you would not perform as such under
actual circumstances.  But the question remains, how did you do
that?"
 
     "Do what, sir?"
 
     "Sulu, I've never seen anything like it!"  It was the second
time Kirk found himself saying those words.
 
     "Oh, you mean the attack strategy.  It would not have been
possible if Mr. Spock had not programmed the gravity compensation
units to withstand the short warping."
 
     "Of course."  Kirk looked puzzled for a moment.  "Did you
think that attack strategy up on your own, Mr. Sulu?"  Sulu did not
respond except for a small release of facial surprise.  Of course
he did, answered Kirk to himself.  "Mr. Sulu, those were some of
the most brilliant and original battle tactics I have ever seen."
 
     Sulu glowed.  He considered his Captain the best battle
strategist there ever was, and if James Kirk felt moved enough to
give a rare compliment, he would allow himself some self-gratitude.
 
     Kirk went over to the console, inspecting it closely.  It was
an exact duplicate of the one on the bridge.  "The programmed ship
response, is it realistic?  The Enterprise could actually perform
under battle conditions in a similar manner?"
 
     "Mr. Spock programed the simulator himself."
 
     Kirk was more than satisfied with Sulu's answer.  If Spock
programmed the computer to react the way the Enterprise would--
 
     "But Captain," offered Sulu, interrupting Kirk's thoughts, "I
wouldn't want to do it on a full stomach."
 
     "I will keep that in mind, Mr. Sulu," mulled Kirk. 
"Unfortunately, I don't think we'll ever get a chance to implement
your strategy."
 
     "Captain?" questioned Sulu at Kirk's unexpected words.
 
     "Never mind, Mr. Sulu, just a private observation.  Be sure to
log your work with StarFleet."
 
     "Yes, sir."
 
     Kirk's eyes twinkled in a sudden mischievous thought.  "And
Mr. Sulu, be sure the Enterprise could, if called upon, perform the
same maneuvers.  Maybe we'll decide to take over the universe
ourselves--starting with a new Federation ship."
 
     Sulu laughed and said, "I'll leave you to tell Mr. Scott what
you want to do with his engines."
 
     With a chuckle, Kirk left him to the simulator.

PART 3
 
 
     There was the large table, twelve chairs, and the omni-present
blue and white flag behind the table's head.  It was the Cabinet
room of the United Federation of Planets.
 
     "There will not be true peace until the Klingon proposal is
put through.  Almost every race in the galaxy, including the
Vulcans, have had their fill of James Kirk."  Chief Admiral Dunn
pointed his finger at an imaginary target to accentuate his last
point.  
 
     The eldest Cabinet member, Vice-president Barrett, addressed
Admiral Stralk.  "What did he have to say, Bill, when you asked
him?"  
 
     Stralk rubbed his chin, then answered, "He didn't like it, to
put it mildly."
 
     Dunn jumped in.  "Of course he didn't like it.  He's been in
a Captain's chair far too long--far too long.  He's a soldier,
nothing more.  There should be no question about the Klingon
proposal, none.  Kirk should have stepped down long ago."
 
     Barrett turned his seat to face Dunn directly.  "James Kirk
should have a universe named in his honour after all he's done. 
The man has literally saved this planet!  I know what he has given
to the Federation, and I will not be party to his dismissal!"
 
     "He did what he was trained to do," retorted Dunn.  "Any
member of Starfleet would have done the same."
 
     "But this is James Kirk--"
 
     "Yes, James Kirk," cut off Dunn, sitting forward in his chair,
"the same James Kirk who has broken every Starfleet regulation in
the book!"   He relaxed back into his chair, easing the tension
between him and Barrett.  The other Cabinet members watched
closely, the outcome of the proposal clearly drawn between himself
and the Vice-President.  But Barrett was not the politician he was.
 
     "I'm not saying, 'Let's get Jim Kirk'.  This is not a court-
martial," continued Dunn smoothly.  "The Klingons are not asking
that he be remanded into their custody.  They are just asking that
Kirk be gently retired, a few logs amended here and there. 
Klingons have a strong tradition of pride and honour.  Kirk has
time and time again rubbed into that tradition, making the entire
Klingon race look foolish."  Dunn was ready for his final, winning
point.  "In other words, Gentlemen, they can't join the Federation
with honour if it looks like they are being forced to because they
have lost to Starfleet.  And that loss is embodied by James T.
Kirk."  Dunn folded his hands onto the table, satisfied.
 
     The final count was close, 7-5, but it was still for the
motion.  There was only the matter of Presidential approval which
would take a week at most.  The final arrangements perhaps another. 
In the end, it meant James Kirk's career was officially over.     
 
 
                           * * * * *
 
     
     The Avenger's Captain shifted his weight once more.  "Status,
Lieutenant Dearla."
 
     Dearla winced.  It couldn't just be her--the Captain must be
asking every five minutes.  Once more she checked her chronometer. 
It had been only four minutes.  "Enterprise rendezvous in one hour
six minutes."
 
     They were nervous, all of them, but none more so than the man
seated in the command chair.
 
     "We're well within direct hailing range, Captain," noted his
First Officer.
 
     "No, Mr. Manluk, I'd rather wait."
 
     Manluk sensed this would be the response he would receive from
his Captain.  He could perceive his friend's nervousness, a curious
emotion that he felt himself, and did his best to suppress.
 
     "Engineering to Captain Kirk."
 
     "Yes, Marty."
 
     "Captain, we're getting a malfunction warning down here with
the distortion matrix.  Anything up there?"
 
     'Damn', Kirk swore to himself, 'I don't want this.  Everything
has to be perfect.'  He turned to his navigator.  "Lieutenant, the
distorter?"
 
     "No malfunction indicated here, sir."
 
     "Marty, there's nothing showing up here.  Are you sure there's
a problem?"
 
     "I'll double check, Captain.  I didn't mean to worry--"
 
     "Understood, Marty.  Report your findings.  Captain out."
 
     Varien tried not to sound strained, but everything had to be
perfect for the Avenger's rendezvous with the Enterprise.  He
brushed at a lock of his light brown hair which immediately fell
back into its original place on his forehead.  He was young and
very handsome with a pair of blue eyes and a smile so devilishly
sweet he could disarm the most wary of men and the coldest of
women.  He sat back and waited tensely for his Chief Engineer's
report. 
 
                              * * *
 
     "Status, Mr. Chekov," Kirk asked as he slipped once more into
his Captain's chair.  After watching Sulu's demonstration in the
simulator, he had gone directly to his quarters to think.  It had
been an interminably long hour alone in his cabin; his thoughts
were as confused as ever--Starfleet asking him to retire, or
rather, disappear from all records except the basic mission
reports.  No citations, no medals, just a clean, sanitary record. 
Even his personal logs would be exterminated.  At least here, in
his chair and on his bridge, he could put away his personal
struggle.
 
     "Contact with the Avenger in two point seven minutes, Kaptin,"
reported Chekov.
 
     "Get me ship to ship, Uhura."
 
     As Uhura reached for the communications tie-in, McCoy and Sulu
sauntered out of the turbo-lift, both smiling from the remnants of
a joke.  Sulu went directly to his post, giving a nod to Chekov as
he sat down.  McCoy went to stand beside his friend.
 
     "Well, Jim, what's up?  Has Starfleet got us diaper training
new ships now?"
 
     Kirk smiled.  "Look's that way, Bones.  A new ship design and
they want us to give her a work-over."
 
     "Well, they got the best."
 
     Everyone one on the bridge took in McCoy's compliment.  Spock
came over to stand on the other side of Kirk's chair.  "They have
their distortion field in operation, Captain."
 
     "Evaluation, Mr. Spock."
 
     "It appears to be operating efficiently.  The sensors read
intermittent images."
 
     "I have ship to ship now, Captain."
 
     "Put it on the screen, Lieutenant."
 
     The screen began to fade into the bridge of the Avenger. 
"This is Captain James T. Kirk of the Starship Enterprise," Kirk
began automatically.  With a smile he added, "Welcome to space."
 
     The bridge of the Avenger stood mesmerized.  Everyone,
including her Captain, was sure now...seeing them together, there
could be no mistake.  "This is Captain J. Varien Kirk of the
Starship Avenger.  Thank you, Captain, this is a great honour." 
The young man's words rang with pride.
 
     At the mention of the name 'Kirk', everyone on the Enterprise
bridge immediately brought their eyes to full attention onto the
screen.  Uhura gasped.  Sulu and Chekov exchange glances.  McCoy
took turns staring at both Captains.  Only Spock remained unmoved,
both Vulcan and human parts.
 
     Jim Kirk smiled for a moment, almost embarrassed.  "Would you
like to come over for a briefing...Captain."  He stopped himself
from asking the obvious--are we related?
 
     With his palms sweating, the younger Captain answered,
remaining as cool as possible, "Fine, sir.  My first officer and I
will be over in five minutes--that is, if that's convenient for
you."
 
     "That will be fine, Captain.  Until then."  The screen
vanished leaving in its place a magnificent warship.  Only Sulu
took any real notice of its design.  The rest of the crew kept
their eyes on James Kirk.
 
     "Captain," began Uhura, "is he...?"
 
     Kirk responded hesitantly, half chuckling.  "I'm not sure. 
Maybe somewhere down the line, but I don't think we're directly
related."
 
     McCoy burst forth.  "The hell you're not.  That boy looks just
like you, Jim!"
 
     Kirk turned to Spock and noticed for the first time a slight
nervousness in his first officer.  "Spock, do you...?"
 
     "Yes, Jim, he's your son."
 
     Spock's words stabbed into Kirk's heart.  Another son?  Could
it be?  
 
     McCoy broke out again with a grin a parsec long.  "Well,
haven't you been a busy little bee these past few years, Jimmy-
boy."
 
     Kirk felt everyone's eyes closing in.  He had to get out, he
had to leave the bridge.  Not even they, his closest friends, could
understand.  "Spock, McCoy, come with me.  Mr. Sulu, you have the
conn."  The orders were snapped and quickly obeyed.  Kirk was
already in the turbo before McCoy could turn to Spock.
 
     McCoy spoke first as they turned to leave.  "You knew Spock?"
the Doctor asked, curiously.
 
     Spock nodded.  He wanted to say that his knowledge was self-
evident therefore McCoy's question was illogical, but the face of
his Captain told him silence was the best policy for the moment. 
McCoy followed him into the turbo-lift, shaking his head in
disbelief.
 
     As the turbo doors slammed shut, Kirk turned to his first
officer.  "Mr. Spock, I want an explanation."  He was angry.
 
     "Now, Jim," McCoy started to drawl in his country doctor
voice.
 
     Kirk was harsh in response.  "That's enough, McCoy.  I'm
waiting, Mr. Spock."
 
     "Jim, I--"  Spock had sputtered uncharacteristically, as if
surprised at his Captain's abruptness.
 
     Kirk did not let the Vulcan continue.  "Why didn't you tell me
before, Spock?  Dammit, why?  I've already lost one son I never
knew I had...and I never got to know.  I blame myself for that. 
Now I find out I have another one who's Captain of an experimental
warship?"
 
     Spock and McCoy brought their eyes to the floor.  They both
felt the pain in Kirk's voice.  And they both remembered.  The
turbo-lift halted and was about to open its doors when Kirk
commanded it to stop.  "Dammit Spock, why didn't you tell me?"
 
     "Jim," the Vulcan murmured slowly.  He was hurt from the pain
of his friend's voice, and hurt that he didn't handle the situation
better.  But it had always been this way for him.  Even as close as
he was to Kirk and McCoy, he still found it difficult to
communicate on a personal level, at least not until the last
possible moment.  Was it only yesterday when he had to suffer the
time of 'pohn farr' for the first time on the Enterprise--not being
able to explain even to Jim?  Had not the bridge of the Enterprise
met his wife T'Pring much the same way Kirk had met his other son? 
And his parents, Amanda and Sarek.  Not until they had come off the
shuttle did Spock tell Kirk and McCoy they were his parents.  'Only
on a need to know basis', was that not how all his personal life
was given?  Yet he knew of the Captain's pain from the loss of one
son.  And yet, logic dictated that it was not his place to divulge
the knowledge.  Was it not Varien's, his son?  Yet the Captain's
pain was self-evident.  His voice echoed the awkwardness with which
he was dealing with his emotions.  "Captain, I wanted to spare
you..."
 
     "Spare me, Spock?  Spare me what--the embarrassment of finding
out about another son?  Did I have to see him for the first time on
my own bridge?"  Kirk's voice fell as he icily asked,  "How long
have you known, Spock?"
 
     "Jim!" interrupted McCoy again.  A pair of burning hazel eyes
turned to him but the Doctor ignored them.  "Jim, don't you think
there's a better place for this?  Spock's your best friend--if he
had his reasons for not telling you, you can damn well bet he
thought it was for the best."
 
     Kirk opened the doors.  He didn't say a word as he stormed out
of the lift and headed for the transporter room.  
 
     Spock turned to McCoy.  "Thank-you...Leonard," he said slowly,
sounding awkward at McCoy's so little used first name.  McCoy
nodded and smiled.  He had a look on his face of understanding, a
look he only shared with his Captain.  For this moment, their walls
of friendly hostility, so long understood by both, fell.  And both
knew this moment would only last until they saw Jim again, and then
they would return to their normal places.
 
     Reaching out an arm, McCoy gently ushered Spock to the
transporter room.  For once, the Vulcan did not stiffen at his
contact, and seemed...almost grateful for it.
 
     "Ready, Captain."  Scotty's tone was the same as it always
was.  He knew who he was transporting, but he did not let it show
in his voice.  News travelled that fast on the Enterprise.
 
     Kirk nodded and the room immediately glowed in light.  A
second later, two figures stood on the Enterprise transporter pads.
 
     "Welcome, Captain," James Kirk said diplomatically.  His voice
was cold.
 
     Varien Kirk stepped down followed by his first officer, a
large, broad shouldered man with dark brown skin.  "This is my
first officer, Mr. Manluk," he introduced.  Spock and McCoy stepped
forward to meet them.  Kirk remained sullen beside the transporter
console.
 
     "Hello, Spock," Varien greeted familiarly.  "This must be
Doctor Leonard Edward McCoy.  It's an honour to meet you sir, Mr.
Spock had told me a lot about you."
 
     "Captain," McCoy acknowledged with a smile.  "I hope its not
too late to repair my reputation."
 
     Varien laughed.  Manluk came forward to Spock.  "Live long and
prosper, sir," he greeted, giving the characteristic Vulcan hand
salute.
 
     "Live, long and prosper, Manluk," greeted Spock in reply.
 
     McCoy did a double take at Manluk's ears.  "Why, he's a
Vulcan!" he exclaimed out loud to no one.
 
     "Not entirely correct, sir," replied Manluk.  "My mother was
a Vulcan.  My father was a Terran."
 
     McCoy's eyes widened.  "That's all this universe needs--
another blasted Spock."  It was an automatic reaction, and he
regretted spitting the words out immediately even if they were
meant to be harmless.
 
     Manluk's eyebrow went up.  "If you make a comparison of myself
with Mr. Spock, then you do me great honour."
 
     McCoy smiled at the young Vulcan's reply despite himself.  "If
you're half as good an officer as Spock, you'll be just fine,
Manluk," he replied softly.
 
     Varien turned directly to his father for the first time.  He
had felt so at ease around Spock, but now--now his stomach
tightened as he neared the great man who was his father.  "Well..."
 
     Kirk cut him off.  "The briefing room is this way, Captain. 
Please follow me and we'll run through the test exercise for the
Avenger."
 
     Varien stopped short.  The clear decisiveness of his father
took him by surprise.  Their first meeting was not meant to be this
way.  He wondered if he had angered the famous man in some way. 
"Uh, Captain, I had hoped I could have a look around...I've heard
so much about the Enterprise.  Besides, my Chief Engineer would
like to meet with Mr. Scott, if that's possible."
 
     "Fine.  Arrange it with Mr. Scott.  I'll be in the briefing
room in thirty minutes.  I'm sure Mr. Spock will give you the
ship's tour if you want it."  With that, James Kirk left the
transporter room without a look back.
 
     Varien turned awkwardly towards the closing door.  "He's mad
at me, isn't he Spock?"  Everything seemed to going exactly the
opposite to the way he had dreamed.
 
     Spock hesitated and McCoy took the opening.  "Now don't you
worry, son, your being here has taken Jim a little by surprise. 
He'll be fine."
 
     Varien smiled weakly, lost for a moment.  He gathered himself
quickly and addressed the Enterprise's renown heart.  "Well, Mr.
Scott," asked the young Kirk, "have you the time to compare ships'
engines with my engineer?"
 
     "Aye, lad, that I do," smiled Scotty.
 
     "He's of Irish descent, Mr. Scott.  Martin O'Shean, but we
call him Marty for short."
 
     "Well, he's not quite a Scot but if he's a good engineer,
he'll be more than welcome.  You leave it to me, Captain, I'll give
him a call and invite him over."
 
     "Thank you, Mr. Scott.  He's a great admirer of yours...and so
am I.  The Enterprise...," Varien whispered, still taking in the
flagship of the Federation.
 
     McCoy spoke, breaking Varien out of his trance.  "Well Spock,
how about you show Mr. Manluk around while I acquaint Mr. Kirk here
with the Enterprise."
 
     Spock nodded and the four of them departed together out of the
transporter room.  The turbo-lift left Spock and Manluk off near
Spock's quarters while McCoy and Varien went to the control centre
of the ship.
 
     Uhura's smile was the first thing that greeted Varien as he
stepped out onto the Enterprise bridge.  All heads turned toward
him and he smiled to greet the faces he knew so well from computer
logs.
 
     "This is Lieut--" began McCoy.
 
     "Lieutenant Uhura," recognized Varien as he touched her hand. 
"And Mr. Sulu, and Mr. Chekov."
 
     "A pleasure to meet you, Kaptin," welcomed Chekov as Varien
turned toward them.
 
     Sulu repeated the salutation then turned to the viewer. 
"That's a beautiful ship you have there, Captain, I've never seen
anything like it."
 
     "Thank you, Mr. Sulu.  Perhaps you might give her the pleasure
of taking her around a bit."
 
     Sulu's mouth watered slightly.  "The forward section--that's
Romulan style, isn't it?"
 
     "You know your ships, Mr. Sulu.  Yes, and its designs came
from the Enterprise records of old style Romulan birds-of-prey. 
But as you can see, the engines are not contained in the main
section but are in the cylindrical projections just like the
Enterprise."  Varien felt a rush of pride explaining the Avenger's
design to the Enterprise's navigator.  "The bridge is in the narrow
projection from the front of the ship--just at the hook at the
end."
 
     "And Mr. Sulu," he finished, "she has near warp ten capacity."
 
     "It does not look like a ship that would fire last," put in
Chekov.
 
     "That, of course, depends on her Captain," smiled Varien, a
smile indistinguishable from James T. Kirk.  It sent chills up the
spines of the helmsman and navigator.
 
     McCoy took the opportunity of the following pause to say,
"Well, if you're finished looking around the bridge, Varien, we
should be getting to the briefing room."
 
     "Yes, of course, Doctor.  But first..."  With a mischievous
twinkle in his eye, Varien Kirk eased over into the Captain's chair
and sat as though he belonged.
 
     "Status, Mr. Sulu," he snapped, but with smile.  Sulu reacted
instinctively.
 
     "Everything reads clear, sir."
 
     "Distance from the Avenger, Mr. Chekov."
 
     "We're two thousand six hundred and fifty-six point five
metres away, sir."
 
     Varien laughed in delight at the efficiency of the two.  McCoy
broke in.  "If you're finished playing your father, we'd better not
keep the old man waiting or you won't be allowed to play later on."
 
     Varien turned with a wink to McCoy.  "Ok, Bones, let's get
moving."
 
     McCoy tried to look gruff as Varien passed him but a smile
broke out just the same and spread to the rest of the bridge. 
"Damn, he's just like his father," the Doctor said to the air, and
everyone on the bridge laughed.
 
                              * * *
 
     "You have learned much since we met last, Manluk."
 
     Manluk bowed his head graciously.  "Thank-you, 'moso wan'. 
Still, it remains so difficult to suppress emotion when one sees
the reaction of humans to half-Vulcans for the first time," he said
almost ashamed.  Obviously his interactions with the rest of the
Avenger crew had not been exactly perfect.
 
     Spock folded his hands together in thought.  "I understand
what you go through, Manluk.  But you must remember, Vulcan
philosophy does not demand the suppression of emotion but the
mastery of it.  There is a great difference.  Every Vulcan
experiences emotion to some degree.  It is how that individual
manages the emotion which enables him to adhere to logic and fact. 
Even so, you and I have a special gift, Manluk.  We border on two
great cultures, accepted by neither, nor rejected.  Humans have
capabilities that Vulcans have long considered illogical thus
inferior.  But I have found this not to be so.  Do not let your
human half control your intellect, but do not ignore nor discount
what it says."
 
     Manluk looked puzzled for a moment.  Spock continued, "I do
not wish to confuse you, Manluk, merely enable you to accept your
differences and rejoice in them.  You are a unique individual as
every living organism is.  Do not forget this fact, but most
importantly, do not let it separate you from the others.  I speak
from experience and I save you much pain if you remember my words."
 
     Large black hands, tinted a soft green, reached out to
Spock's.  Minds touched for a moment and became one.  Until Manluk
had met Spock, he had felt alone in the entire universe, alone,
different, and cursed.  His Vulcan mother had died giving him life
on a planet thousands of parsecs from that of her homeworld, an
outpost with a harsh climate fostering harsh people.  There was no
place for logic or considered thought, just how to survive the next
day.
 
     What became of his father Manluk did not know.  Perhaps killed
by a Ferengi or an Orion raid, perhaps dying in the outer caves
where the Terrans often went looking for rare crystal deposits
hoping to "make it big."
 
     He often wondered how the mating came to be between his
parents.  There was no logic in his mother's decision to couple. 
Yet Spock had conjectured that even Vulcans could succumb to
loneliness, and to desire.  Perhaps this had been so with his
mother.  Her family on Vulcan refused to even acknowledge her
existence, and thus his.  Once there had been anger within him,
anger for leaving him alone, anger for not being like the Terrans. 
Ears that were different, a mind that could read thoughts and feel
overwhelming passion at a touch--yes, he was different, but there
was no reason for shame, shame that he had known so well because he
was so different.  But Spock had demonstrated another way, the
proper way.  Rejoice in the infinite diversities of life, for this
is the way of a Vulcan--
 
     Their minds separated.  Manluk felt the peace of Spock's
disciplined mind, controlling thoughts, channelling them to logical
ends.  "I thank you, Spock.  Though it may be illogical, my heart
is glad that you are my sponsor."
 
     Spock nodded, smiling softly.  Steepling his fingers, he said
softly, "Manluk, it is the way of our people to honour the name of
Surak, the founder of modern Vulcan philosophy."
 
     Manluk, silent, obediently awaited further explanation.
 
     "Every Vulcan male, in respect of Surak and his founding
principles, has a name that begins with the consonant S.  Though it
is of little real importance, you have earned the right to realize
that respect."
 
     "Then I shall cherish the saviour of our people, and myself. 
I shall be known as S'Manluk in his honour, and my own."  The black
Vulcan's dark brown eyes went deep into thought.  He was a large
person, even by Vulcan standards, yet no less handsome, and he had
cut his long, black hair exactly as Spock's, not coincidentally.
 
     Spoke regarded Manluk carefully.  S'Manluk he was now, and
worthy of it.  There would be no repeating the mistake he had made
with Saavik, his greatest disappointment.  Perhaps he was not the
proper one to have sponsored her.  His human half had deceived him,
blinding him to the signs, the hidden thoughts she had guarded so
carefully.  But there was no error with S'Manluk.
 
     So much about him had changed since Spock had found him in the
detention cell in a self-induced catatonic state, the colony's lone
"psychiatrist" having long since given up the possibility that this
mix of genetics could possibly lead a normal life.  But how could
the human have conceived the pain Manluk endured or understand how
deep his Vulcan roots went.  When ponn farr came, the time of
mating, his Vulcan half took over.  There was no one to comprehend,
not even Manluk, of the mind-wrenching emotion and desire he
experienced.  And so there was only two choices for him.  Complete
madness leading to an early death, or the rejection of the reality
about him and the creation of his own world existing in his mind
alone.  What Manluk had achieved on his own, with no teaching, was
his own corrupt vision of the world of Vulcan, yet how could it not
be corrupt, for his mother had but a few precious moments to 
implant the seeds of a rich and glorious culture, the way of
Vulcan.
 
     Those seeds finally bore fruit after his first meeting with a
mind truly like his own, a half-Vulcan/half-human who gave him
understanding and compassion through the touch of his fingers. 
Only those empathetic hands could have pulled him out of his
mindrealm and back to the outerworld.  From the harsh colony
outpost of confusion and pools of hate-filled emotion to the strict
discipline of Starfleet academy, to a purpose in life, and a 'moso
wan', a foster father.  It was Spock who had introduced him to
Varien Kirk...Varien his friend with whom he had studied during his
academy training.  And now he had just been accepted fully into the
Vulcan fold by its secondmost honoured citizen...    
 
     Spock nodded to himself then arose and started out the door. 
"In two point six minutes," he announced clearly, in order to
capture S'Manluk's attention, "the briefing session with Captain
Kirk and Varien shall commence."
 
     S'Manluk stood and followed his mentor into the corridor. 
"Your Captain Kirk, he is angry with Varien?" he asked curiously.
 
     Spock's eyebrow rose.  "I believe he is angry with me,
S'Manluk."
 
     Into the turbo-lift, S'Manluk commented, "This does not seem
logical.  Should he not rejoice in his offspring?  Can you
explain?"
 
     Spock hesitated for a moment, meditating on the question, then
replied, "Human response is difficult to predict.  Even after many
years, one cannot accurately forecast human emotion.  I believe
however, that Captain Kirk is suffering from both the fear of
becoming a father once again, and self-guilt.  He has witnessed the
murder of a son he never knew, and he has great feelings of
culpability for that loss.  He wishes to forget what he believes
was his greatest failure, however illogically arrived that
conclusion is.  With Varien, that may no longer be possible now."
 
     The turbo-lift doors opened and they exited.  "I find both
father and son to be somewhat similar in emotional character.  Do
you agree?" asked S'Manluk.
 
     Spock almost sighed.  "Your observation is indeed correct. 
Both are stubborn, unpredictable, and yet excel at commanding a
starship.   However, this universe may not be large enough for two
Kirks of such similar disposition."  He almost smiled, showing
S'Manluk that the comment was meant to be taken humourously.
 
     They turned for the briefing room, catching sight of McCoy and
Varien coming down the hall.  The doors opened.  Inside sat a
lonely James T. Kirk deep in thought.
 
     Spock's eyebrow rose.  He motioned S'Manluk to a seat next to
himself and sat down.  Varien and McCoy sat directly across with
Jim Kirk who was seated at the accustomed head of the table.  There
was silence in the briefing room as everyone waited for the Captain
of the Enterprise to begin.
 
     "I take it you had a satisfactory tour, Captain?"
 
     Varien's eyes turned toward the Enterprise Commander.  "Yes,
thank-you, I did.  You have a magnificent ship, sir.  You must be
very proud of her."
  
     Though Varien's words were honest and true, they did little to
impress his fellow Captain.  "Thank-you," Kirk replied icily.  "I
have been informed that your engineer is in conference with Mr.
Scott.  Once they have finished, we will start the testing of the
Avenger."  Kirk's tone was strictly professional.  "You'll run
through the basic manoeuvres while Mr. Spock observes, after which
weaponry and shielding will be tested in the Annas asteroid field. 
Are there any questions?"  To Kirk, the query was meant to be
rhetorical and this fact registered plainly on his face.
 
     As he was about to rise, Varien spoke out.  "Captain, I had
hoped we could run through a mock battle.  The Avenger was, after
all, designed as an engagement vessel."
 
     Kirk's eyes lasered toward the man.  Spock agreed however. 
"The request is quite logical, Captain.  The Avenger is--"
 
     "Now I want this to be perfectly clear," Kirk enunciated
coldly, rudely cutting off his First Officer. "This is strictly an
evaluation exercise.  There will be no engagement of any kind
between the Enterprise and the Avenger.  This is a Federation
starship, not a testing dummy.  Is that understood?"
 
     It was.  Every person in the briefing room remained silent. 
"Fine, I shall be in my quarters.  Mr. Spock, you will direct the
testing."  Kirk turned and left, his face flushed red.
 
     "Damn..." mumbled McCoy in half disbelief.  He shifted his
teeth together as if just eating indigestible food.
 
                              * * *
 
     Kor was sitting in his private chambers when the news came. 
A massive Romulan build-up near the scientific planet of Tridare. 
He grunted at the communique.  Tridare, a worthless piece of rock
near a black star.  One of the Federation's experiments in racial
co-operation.  Klingons, Romulans, and Federation scientists.  Kor
had thought the other Empires had only sent spies, as he had.  No
one would dare work on something of importance, no one could be
that stupid.  Still, the Romulans were there and in a force to be
reckoned with.
 
     His private door buzzed.  On a private screen, he saw Kaarg
standing outside.  Kaarg.  While he was still young, he was prone
to rash behaviour, thus quite easily manipulated.  But Kaarg was
thirsty for glory, and power.  Kor would have to watch him. 
Curious as to why Kaarg was at his quarters so late, he let him in.
 
     Kaarg burst forward, initiated the appropriate salute, and
immediately sat down at Kor's table, an impertinence Kor did not
overlook though he said nothing.  "Commander," the young warrior
growled, "the Romulans--"
 
     Kor smiled and waved a hand.  It was interesting how Kaarg had
gained such top priority information.  He thought of several
procedures with which to begin his investigation, the mind-sifter
set on full, of course.  "The Romulans are fools.  They test us,"
he said to Kaarg aloofly.  "They wish to see our response, and the
Federation's."  Eying the young commander carefully, he vocalized,
"They fear the strength of our alliance with the Earthmen."
 
     Kaarg did not seem satisfied.  "They prepare to attack!  We
must go now and destroy them!  We can use the Earthmen to our
advantage.  Let them fight the Romulans while we wait.  Then we
shall destroy both.  Think of the glory for Klinzhai!"
 
     Kor chuckled to himself.  "The Earthmen are not as foolish as
you make them out to be, Kaarg.  They will send Kirk."
 
     Kaarg reacted as if he had eaten a disruptor.  "Kirk!  Kirk! 
That is all I hear!"  An accusing fist came towards Kor.  "Your
great plans of peace were to take Kirk away from his ship.  Now he
will go and destroy the Romulans...glory will go to him while we
'kuve' await his commands.  Soon he will run Klinzhai, itself!"
 
     Kor bolted upright in fury.  "Silence!  I am still in command
here!  You will do as I say or I will see you stuffed and mounted
on Kirk's ship!"
 
     'I am still in command here', rang in Kaarg's head.  The
Klingon before him had once stood for honour and the might of
Klingzhai.  He had been greatly admired by Kaarg.  Now it was time
for him to die.  Making out as if turning for the door, Kaarg
pulled out a small disruptor.  Kor saw the movement but was too
late to pull out his own.  There was a flash of light then Kor
crumpled to the floor.  He did not scream, nor make any sound. 
This pleased Kaarg, for he had wanted the Supreme Commander to die
like a warrior.  The intercom light went on.  Kaarg went over and
pressed the button.
 
     "Commander--"
 
     It was Kor's security.  They had heard the disruptor fire. 
"This is Kaarg.  Kor is dead.  I am now Supreme Commander.  Do you
understand?"
 
     There was only a moment's hesitation, then came the submissive
reply, "Kai, Supreme Commander Kaarg!"
 
     "Yes", mused Kaarg, "I thought you would."
 
                              * * *
 
     "It's not bad, sir," Marty O'Shean observed, having another
drink.
 
     "Not bad?  Scotch is what Starships run on, lad."
 
     "Now Mr. Scott, there can be nothing smoother than Irish
whisky.  It's the water, you know.  Irish rain is the sweetest on
the whole of the Earth."
 
     Scotty took back his bottle of Scotch whisky, cradling it like
a baby while he staved off a near heart-attack.  With bottle in
hand, he arose carefully and said, "Now, now, I'll excuse your
words because of your youth.  You've tasted the best drink in the
universe, now it's time you saw the best engines in the universe."
 
     Marty burped in discomfort.  Needing the support of the desk,
he pushed himself upwards.  "All right, Mr. Scott.  Let's take a
look at this dinosaur."
 
     The Irish Chief Engineer staggered ungracefully outside the
hall nearly taking out a crewman in the process.  With a deep
Scottish sigh, Scotty turned and held the bottle to the light. 
"Dinosaurs are we?" he grumbled, drank deeply and then smiled. 
Putting the bottle down, he burred distastefully, "All right, let's
show who, who's a dinosaur."

PLEASE NOTE:  THIS IS PART 4--IF YOU MISSED EITHER PARTS 1,2, OR 3,
PLEASE EMAIL ME A MESSAGE AND I'LL SEND YOU THE MISSING PARTS.  THE
ENTIRE IS STORY IS COMPLETE AND IS ABOUT 11 PARTS LONG.
 
 
 
PART 4 OF A GREAT STORY
 
     The cabin door buzzed.  Somehow, Kirk had a feeling it would. 
He put his book down.  He hadn't been able to read anyways. 
"Come."
 
     Inside stepped Varien.
 
     Kirk lifted himself off his bed and put on a face devoid of
emotion.  "Well?"  His voice matched his face.
 
     "I thought we should talk," Varien said softly, glancing about
the quarters.  There were several old-style books, antique sailing
implements...
 
     "We have nothing to talk about," came a sharp reply.
 
     "I think we do."
 
     Kirk put his book down and crossed his arms.  "What do you
want from me, Captain?  Do you want me to come dashing across the
room and give you a big hug?  Then ask 'How I can make up for lost
years?'"
 
     Varien hesitated then said with a slight grin, "That could be
a start."
 
     "You're not funny.  And as far as I'm concerned, you're not my
son."
 
     The words hurt.  "Now look here," Varien demanded, his eyes
blazing.  "I didn't come here to say, gee dear old Dad, let go play
catch and you can tell me a story--"
 
     "Then what did you come here for?"
 
     "Respect.  Captain to Captain."
 
     Kirk's voice lowered, almost to a whisper.  "Why did you take
my name?"
 
     "I had the right.  Like it or not, you are my father."  Varien
stopped to watch the reaction from the words.  If they had bothered
Kirk, he could not tell.  "I assume you don't remember Mom either."
 
     Kirk swallowed.  "Say what you have to say then leave."
 
     Varien came closer to his father, trying to capture his eyes. 
"I will.  Vayenna Dorlane, bar singer from Toronto--Canadian
sector.  Not too smart, but very beautiful.  Falls in love with a
dashing starship Captain named James Tiberius Kirk.  To him, she's
just another conquest, another night he won't be alone."  Varien
stopped for a moment.  He sounded angry and bitter, but he really
didn't mean to be.  Still, James Kirk had it coming.
 
     "She sent you video discs, but I'm sure you never played them. 
But I'll tell you something, Captain, it made no difference to her. 
'Oh, he's too busy on a mission son, we just have to understand.' 
In twenty-seven years, she saw you only three times, but still she
loved you, and she still loves you."
 
     Kirk shuddered.  He felt old, and he felt guilt, guilt he did
not want to feel.  "You don't understand," he began slowly, the
coldness leaving, "I'm a starship Captain..."
 
     Varien smiled.  "I do understand, sir.  I'm a starship Captain
myself."
 
     Kirk turned away and leaned on the bed.  Varien followed. 
"You don't need to feel bad about this, about me.  I took the name
Kirk.  And it was an honour.  You are the greatest Captain that
ever lived.  You've dedicated your life to the service and to your
ship.  I know what that means.  I know what the sacrifice is.  I am
going to have that same life."
 
     Jim Kirk turned to his son.  "But you don't really understand. 
I have given everything to this ship.  I don't think I have
anything else left for another person...for a son..."
 
     The intercom whistled sharply, then Uhura's voice came
through.  She was worried.  "Captain Kirk...and Captain Kirk,
there's a fight down in Engineering.  Captain, it's Scotty...and
the Engineer from the Avenger."
 
     The two Kirks exchange puzzled glances.  "I'm on the way,"
responded the elder one.
 
     It was a crowded scene that greeted the two Captains in the
Engineering room.  Scotty was being held by two engineering techs
while Marty O'Shean lay sprawled on the floor, his lip bleeding.
 
     "Attention!" Kirk snapped.  Everybody in the room stiffened
except for Marty O'Shean, who simply moaned at the words.  Varien
immediately kneeled down to his bruised Engineer.
 
     "Scotty, what happened?" demanded Kirk.
 
     Scotty, seeing his Captain's face, turned his downward.
 
     "Scotty?"
 
     "He, uh, he insulted the Enterprise, sir."
 
     Kirk's eyes rolled to the ceiling.  
     
     Varien had helped his Engineer to his feet.  "He hit me,
Captain," the Irishman mumbled in disbelief.
 
     Varien started to chuckle.  "I should have warned you about
Mr. Scott, Marty.  He's very sensitive about the Enterprise."
 
     Scotty's chin went up into the air at Varien's words of
understanding.  "These young ones, they don't have any respect. 
Cawlll," he grumbled, "telling me my engines should be replaced. 
You should watch how quick dinosaurs can bite, laddie.  There's no
better ship than the Enterprise."
 
     Varien smiled.  To placate the elder engineer he said, "Well,
there is no finer ship for exploration than the Enterprise, but the
Avenger is a true fighting ship with the engines to match.  No ship
can out-manoeuvre her."
 
     Jim Kirk smiled.  "There's a lot more to a ship than just
power, Varien, there's her Captain too.  You'll learn that."
 
     Varien should have been pleased that his idol had actually
addressed him by his first name, but for the moment, he was not
able to focus on the acknowledgement.  The words were too
condescending for his taste.  "Captain," he said, trying to laugh,
"our crew has been specially trained and selected.  Manluk and I
went through the academy together.  There is no finer crew, or
ship, to be found, no disrespect intended.  That's why we were
chosen."
 
     Marty turned to his Captain.  "That's telling him, sir." 
Varien nodded smugly to his Engineer.
 
     "Well, I can see how capable the Avenger's Chief Engineer is
at handling himself," Kirk returned mockingly.  "I sure hope your
ship's engines perform better in a fight than he does."
 
     Scotty chuckled and looked down at the Avenger's Captain and
Engineer as though they had just been able to take their first
step.  For once, it was Varien's face which became a mask devoid of
emotion.  He smiled for a moment, a smile meaning trouble for an
enemy vessel or captain.  A smile that Jim Kirk should have
recognized, for he had used it often enough.
 
     Varien snapped open his communicator.  "Kirk to Avenger."
 
     "Lieutenant Dearla here, sir."
 
     "Lieutenant, please beam myself and Engineer O'Shean aboard. 
Oh, yes, Lieutenant, locate Mr. Manluk and have him beamed aboard
as well."  Varien flipped the communicator back and with self-
satisfaction, smiled again at the Captain of the Enterprise.  The
room shimmered and the two men disappeared.
 
     "Scotty, I think we hurt their feelings," mused Kirk.
 
     "Aye, sir," Scotty agreed, and then murmured, "Irish whisky
better than Scotch--aach!"
 
     Kirk turned to his Chief Engineer.  "Scotty, don't you think
you're too old to be getting into fights?"
 
     Scotty appeared astonished at the remark.  "Sir!" he replied,
and then feigned throwing a punch at his Captain.
 
     Kirk laughed.  "Scotty, I think you should be--"
 
     The ship lurched suddenly leaving everyone in the room to
scramble for balance.  The red alert signal flashed and then the
intercom blinked on.  "Spock to Captain Kirk, please come to the
bridge immediately.  We are under attack."
 
     Kirk's face went white in shock.  Scotty stared at him in
disbelief.  Scrambling, Kirk dashed for the engineering doors and
to the turbo-lift.
 
     "Status, Mr. Sulu," Kirk asked quickly, as he took his chair.
 
     "Deflectors are up and weapons stand ready."
 
     "Spock?"
 
     "It was the Avenger, Captain," the first officer declared
officially.
 
     "Damage?" Kirk inquired with a glare towards the screen.
 
     "None, Captain.  We were hit with one-tenth phaser power. 
Just enough to jolt us, Jim."  A look of amusement fell over the
Vulcan's face.  The attack was predictable, if you knew your Kirks
well.
 
     "So, he wants a fight, does he?  Sulu, if the opportunity
arises, I want plan Sulu Simulation put into effect."
 
     "Captain?" questioned Sulu at the order of an untried battle
strategy.
 
     "Nothing like the real thing to test it out, Mr. Sulu."  Kirk
pressed the intercom button on his chair. "Captain to weapons
control.  I want full phaser command at Mr. Sulu's discretion."
 
     A voice somewhere deep in the ship replied, "Aye, sir."
 
     Kirk pressed the button once again.  "Mr. Scott, prepare your
engines for a set of extraordinary manoeuvres.  Think they can
handle a little strain, Scotty?"
 
     "Aye, Captain, if it's gonna teach those young know-it-alls a
lesson a two, I'll give you warp 15."
 
     Kirk smiled.  He watched Sulu punch in several commands into
navigational control.  Chekov worked silently with him.
 
     "Captain," informed Spock as he viewed his sensor screen, "the
Avenger has powered down her phasers to 1/100 capacity." He looked
up at the command chair.  "Standard mock-battle power, Jim."
 
     "Very good, Mr. Spock.  We'll see just how good this Captain
is."
 
     Spock returned to the sensor screen.  "She's activated her
distortion field and powered up her warp engines."
 
     "Let's see what she'll do, Mr. Spock.  Mr. Sulu, take no
counter action until the Avenger has completed its first run."
 
     "Aye, sir," acknowledged Sulu.  Chekov rubbed his palms
eagerly, waiting for the oncoming battle.
 
     The Avenger pivoted quickly about the stationary Enterprise. 
Then, in diamond fashion, the attack ship blinked in and out of
view, firing at every turn.  Phaser beams splayed about the
Enterprise shields.
 
     "Spock, evaluation."
 
     "Computers read extensive damage to shielding in engineering
and bridge sections.  Had it been full power, the Enterprise would
have lost most of her shielding capacity."  The Vulcan left his
post and went to stand beside the Captain's chair.  "Deadly
accurate, Captain.  A most efficient machine."
 
     "And not a bad Captain," murmured Jim Kirk, almost proudly. 
"Okay Mr. Sulu, let's set up your manoeuvre."
 
     With quick fingering of Sulu's hands, the Enterprise roared to
life.  "Course 763 mark 12," called the Captain.
 
     "763 mark 12," echoed Sulu.
 
     The Avenger followed hungrily.  "Keep our strongest shields to
her," soothed Kirk.  "Now--80 degrees starboard and pivot!"
 
     Before Sulu could complete the manoeuvre, bolts of light
issued from the Avenger.  The screen lit up once more.  Spock was
already evaluating the damage with the computer sensors.  "Damage
to torpedo bays; shields completely inoperative.  Minimal warp
drive capacity.  Open damage to decks six and seven."
 
     Kirk nodded.  The damage was extensive.  "Well, it appears as
though we are beaten, Mr. Spock."
 
     Spock went to stand beside his Captain once more.  "So it
would appear, Jim.  A most effective attack."  This time Spock
smiled fully, almost as if to rub the defeat into his Captain.
 
     "Incoming message, Captain," announced Uhura.
 
     "On the screen."
 
     The stars of the screen melted into Varien's face.  The young
Kirk was doing his best to conceal a smile.  "This is Captain James
Varien Kirk of the U.S.S Avenger.  Our sensors read your ship is
severely damaged, your life support systems on back-up.  I demand
that you surrender your ship and beam your survivors to our brig."
 
     James T. Kirk smiled--dangerously.  "Thank-you, Captain," he
replied with thick courtesy.  "You will give us a minute to abandon
the bridge?"
 
     "You have one minute, Captain, no more."
 
     "I thank-you, sir."  With a stab of the hand, the defeated
Enterprise Captain waved off the screen contact.  Uhura complied
immediately.  "Sulu, program the ship for Simulation Strategy.
Remember, I don't want them destroyed, just completely crippled. 
Spock, we still have phasers?"
 
     "Yes, Captain.  They cannot be recharged once exhausted,
however."
 
     "I think that will be most sufficient.  Sulu?"
 
     "Ready in thirty seconds, Captain."
 
     Kirk clenched his fist and put it to his mouth.  It was only
a mock-battle but still, he hadn't felt this good in years.
 
     "Ready, sir."
 
     "Engage, Mr. Sulu."
 
     At the instant of Kirk's command, the ship stuttered from warp
to a halt, blasting streams of super condensed light energy.  Kirk
was completely disoriented from the phasing in and out of warp and
could only admire Sulu's capacity to function under the brain
pounding conditions.
 
     Three seconds later, the Enterprise came to a full stop having
circumnavigated the Avenger.  "Spock?" Kirk asked, trying to quell
his excitement.
 
     "Even with the Avenger's advanced shielding, she was not able
to withstand Mr. Sulu's unique attack.  In fact, Captain, the
interval between phaser fire was such that it built up a
destructive resonance in the Avenger's shielding much like a
disruptor."
 
     "Damage?"
 
     "The Avenger has been destroyed," the Vulcan announced grimly,
then smiled.  Kirk was about to comment on the recent overt
displays of emotion his first officer was exhibiting when Uhura
interrupted his observations.
 
     "Captain, the Avenger is hailing us."
 
     "On screen, Lieutenant."
 
     Varien's face appeared.  It was filled with awe, complete awe. 
"Captain, I--"
 
     "Captain Kirk," began the elder Kirk smugly, "I believe you do
not exist--your ship has been destroyed!  How is it you are able to
communicate with me?"
 
     Varien looked completely at a loss for words.  Finally, he
half-whispered, "How did you do that?"
 
     "Captain, you have just been treated to the expertise of Mr.
Sulu."  Varien nodded from across the screen as if to say 'I should
have known.'  "Permit me sir," continued James Kirk, "the honour of
coming aboard the Avenger.  I'd like to take a look at this ship of
yours, Varien."
 
     Varien blinked.  "Of course, the honour is ours--whenever you
are ready!"
 
     "Fine.  I'll be over in five minutes.  Kirk out."
 
     The screen vanished into the stars.  "Sulu," crooned Kirk as
he placed a hand onto his helmsman's shoulder, "that was
brilliant."  As an after-thought, he added, "And I'm glad you
destroyed her."
 
     Sulu smiled in reply.  Then a wave a fear fell over him. 
"About Mr. Scott, Captain..."
 
     "I think, Sulu, that Mr. Scott will want to treat you to his
finest Scotch when he finds out what his engines just did.  The
ship is yours Spock."
 
     Spock smiled lightly.  Kirk opened his mouth to say something
but thought the better of it, deciding instead to make for the
turbo-lift.
 
     A full honour guard awaited James T. Kirk aboard the Avenger. 
As he passed by the full-dress uniforms of the officers, their
faces so young, Kirk was struck by the loyalty Varien seemed to
command from his crew.  So inexperienced, these crewmen.  He
wondered how many would survive a full tour of duty--if the Avenger
was allowed one.
 
     Formalities were quickly dispensed and the green crew of the
Avenger went back to their assigned posts, their eyes wide from the
meeting of The James Kirk, the legendary father of their Captain. 
Kirk had never quite got used to being treated as a demi-god,
always feeling uncomfortable shaking so many fresh, sweaty hands. 
The quiet of Varien's quarters would be better, but an unfamiliar
nervousness had risen in his usually iron-cast stomach as he stood
outside the door.  Varien motioned him in.
 
     There were old-style books, several antiques from ships that
sail with the wind, and log tapes, hundreds of log tapes neatly
stacked by the viewer.  Varien's blue eyes twinkled as he watched
his father take in the surroundings.  Hazel eyes turned and met his
own.
 
     "Very interesting," noted Kirk, feeling somewhat at home.  "We
seem to share the same tastes."
 
     Varien smiled.  "I'm glad you approve."  He moved over to an
old astrolabe, the wood carefully coated in plastic preserve. 
"This one is said to come from Horatio Nelson's ship.  You like
Nelson, don't you, Captain?"
 
     Kirk smiled and slowly shifted the instrument out of Varien's
hands.  "I used to read about his battles, his strategies...divide
and conquer."
 
     Varien took up the conversation.  "There is nothing better
than to actually be on the water, the feel of the waves carrying
you up and down, the wind blowing in your face.  You used to go
sailing on Georgian Bay when you were young, didn't you?"
 
     Kirk turned the astrolabe over in his hands, his eyes glued to
the wood.  Varien went over to the viewer and sat down, patiently
awaiting a reply, studying his father in the meanwhile.  What have
those eyes seen...he wondered to himself.
 
     Kirk turned slowly and faced Varien.  "You seem to have the
advantage of knowing quite a bit about me."
 
     Varien waved a hand towards the log tapes.  "It seems half
your life is recorded for all time.  Some of these are even
personal logs..."
 
     "Mr. Spock, no doubt," Kirk said grimly, putting the astrolabe
down.
 
     Seemingly at random, Varien picked up a tape and placed it in
the viewer.  A concerned James Kirk appeared, his face young in
appearance but no less commanding:
 
     Captain's Log:  Stardate 3227.2
 
     Mr. Spock is in sickbay, still suffering the effect of
stylamine gas.  His bravery and courage has saved the Enterprise
and her crew and I personally recommend him for the Medal of
Valour.  The award seems trivial to one who has put the ship and
crew ahead of his own personal safety countless times and it is
only because of his bravery that I am able to submit this log.  I
am grateful and honoured to consider him friend.  Captain out.
     
     Varien amended the log with a personal observation.  "I have
never met a more loyal friend than Mr. Spock."
 
     Kirk did not respond.  Varien continued, clicking off the
viewer, "We met when I was in my second year of Acadamy training. 
It was quite by accident.  He was with S'Manluk."  Varien paused
for a moment when he saw Kirk's face sour.  "I see that you have
found fault with Spock.  And you are probably wondering why he
never told you about me."  Varien stood, placed both hands on the
table and leaned towards Kirk.  "It's because I told him you were
not to know."  He eased back.  "It was, of course, the logical
thing to do."
 
     Kirk shot him a glare at the words.  "Think about it," Varien
shot back. "You already had your family--your ship, your crew. 
Long before I met Spock, I knew that this was true.  Even Grandma
Kirk knew."
 
     "What?"  Kirk's face was incredulous.  "You've met my mother?"
 
     Varien sat back down.  "Yes.  She lives only a few kilometres
away from Mom.  She moved into Aunt Patricia's cottage on Georgian
Bay.  The farm in Iowa was too much for her to handle.  Actually,
her and Mom are quite close.  She understood what it was like to be
married to a man of space--to have two sons following their father,
and she helped me to understand."  Kirk turned away.  Varien
pressed on.  "How much different would it have been if you had
known?  Did it make any difference for you and Sam?  Your father
had a place in the stars, and in some ways, you grew up just like
me.  A visit every year or so--he could never get close to you or
Sam except in a letter.  And what about your other son--David?"
 
     Kirk's emotions were swirling.  So much, so fast--"So you even
know about David?"
 
     "Spock told me."
 
     "Spock," murmured a distraught Kirk.  He moved over to the
chair opposite Varien and slumped down.  For the first time, he
looked old and tired, and alone.
 
     "I'm sure he understood too, if he was anything like you and
me."  Varien's voice was soft and low.  "From what I heard, he
was."
 
     Kirk put his hands to his face and slowly slid them down.  He
looked very, very tired.  "So what do you want, Varien?  You seem
to have all the answers, where do we go from here?"
 
     Varien smiled mischievously.  "Take me sailing."

  IF YOU DON'T KNOW ABOUT JIM'S FATHER, THIS PART WILL GIVE YOU A
LITTLE INSIGHT INTO HIS CONNECTION WITH THE ENTERPRISE AND HER
FIRST CAPTAIN, ROBERT APRIL.
 
 
PART 5
     
 
     The wind was warm and comforting.  The Sea Witch had full sail
and was tacking a course up the lake.  Two men were aboard, and
they worked the ship with quiet precision, needing no words to
appreciate their surroundings.  Each was lost in private thoughts
about boyhood, and the magic of spending a summer on a sparkling
strip of water, the sun glinting rainbows with every wave crest.
 
     As the Sea Witch turned for home, Jim Kirk stole a glance at
Varien, who was already beginning to take in the fore sail.  Space
and the Enterprise were so far away from here, almost as if they
had never existed:  or if both did, they were only ghostly memories
of a glorious time past.  At Kirk's request, Starfleet had granted
them both an indefinite shoreleave, and this was not unexpected. 
He again was assaulted with a diplomatic barrage of the importance
of creating a lasting peace in the galaxy.  'Would he retire
quietly with a pension in some small corner of the universe, his
legend taken away?  Exchange anonymity for the future of untold
generations?--"I need some time, Admiral Stralk...with my family." 
"Of course, Jim, however long you need."  So now he was here, with
his son, guiding the Sea Witch towards the dock.  Yet something in
Stralk's voice worried him.  The admiral was almost glad about the
request for shore leave for his crew.
 
     "Not bad, Pops," Varien teased as he reached out for the front
post.  Clad only in a tee-shirt and shorts, his easy nature
reminded Kirk of his older brother Sam when he was a boy, though
Sam was long dead on Deneva.  He had Sam's blue eyes as well, but
with Sam, one never knew whether those eyes were twinkling with the
thoughts of a devil or a saint.  Often as not, it would be a devil,
as a young Jimmy Kirk would awaken in his sleeping bag to find
himself hanging from a tree, or feel a mass of cold, slimy worms
crawling over his stomach, or sewn in completely... 
 
     "Did you boys have fun?" called an older woman from a chair
near the water.
 
     "You bet, Grandma.  It was a perfect day for sailing."
 
     "Jimmy, you take Varien in and start the barbecue.  Vayenna's
gone to the store for extra food."  Her voice became impish. 
"You'll never guess who's coming to dinner."
 
     Kirk grinned knowingly at his mother.  Her eyes, blue like
Varien's, were still bright and clear, especially remarkable for a
woman who has been through what she has.  A missing husband, a dead
son and daughter-in-law, another son who left her alone so that he
could brave the universe, left her to wonder when some man from
Starfleet would knock on her door to apologize again for the loss
of another loved one.  Now a grandson to follow that same path. 
Looking at her, small and frail in the lounge chair, Jim realized
that she was probably the loneliest of all the Kirks--at least
Varien and he had a ship and a crew.  "Okay, boss," he waved with
a smile.
 
     Varien deftly jumped onto the dock.  "Need a hand, Pops?" he
baited, as he held out a hand across the space of the dock and the
Sea Witch, his blue eyes sparkling devilishly.
 
     Kirk brought out a battle smile.  "Why sure, sonny."  With a
quick thrust, he grabbed Varien's wrist, pushed his foot out
against the dock for leverage, and sent the startled young Kirk
into the water.
 
     "Jimmy!" admonished his Mom lightly.
 
     "Sorry, Ma--don't know my own strength!"
 
     Varien lifted his head out of the water and laughed hard.  "I
should have known..."
 
     Kirk threw him a towel.  "C'mon, kid, they'll be plenty of
time to swim later."
 
     Varien replied with a splash from his hand.
 
                            * * * * *
 
     Everyone had eaten, the barbecue just a small pile of dying
coals.  Spock, not consuming meat, had enjoyed the fruit salad Mrs.
Kirk had made especially for his and S'Manluk.  Everyone else had
gorged themselves on low fat steaks, leaving McCoy to remark how
much the two Vulcans were missing.  A large fire was crackling,
competing with the goldern orange light of the setting sun.  Spock
controlled the conversation, speaking as usual of Vulcan history
and Surak.
 
     "Spock," interrupted McCoy tenderly, "the way you speak of
Surak borders on worship.  Aren't you being a little too
glorifying?"
 
     Spock halted.  "He is the founder of logic and the most
revered of our people."
 
     McCoy, who was sitting in a large wooden chair, was feeling
somewhat combative, especially after having several glasses of his
favorite Kentucky bourbon.  "I don't know, Spock," he grumbled, "a
whole planet of would-be Suraks.  Doesn't make for a fun time to
me."
 
     Spock watched him drink.  "Very well, Doctor, perhaps you
might have a particular subject to put forward."
 
     "Well, Spock, as a matter of fact I do..."
 
     Jim Kirk's mind wandered as he heard McCoy begin a long
history of Spock's displays of emotion on the Enterprise.   His
eyes fell upon Vayenna Doyen, Varien's mother.  With a quick turn
of his head and a smile, he motioned her towards the lake.  Varien
saw him wave to her and felt something stir inside, a good feeling,
as he watched his mother rise and take Kirk's hand.  McCoy noticed
but did not cease his bantering with Spock.
 
     As soon as they could no longer hear the chief surgeon, Kirk
explained softly, "It's such a beautiful sunset, Vayenna, I thought
it such a shame to waste."  
 
     Vayenna eased up beside Kirk and put an arm into his as they
neared the moon-lit water.  "It seems like yesterday, Jim, when I
heard you talk like that."
 
     He smiled.  "I'm glad to be here...and I'm glad you decided to
come."
 
     They walked in silence for several minutes until they reached
the beach at the edge of the lake.  Kirk turned and faced her. 
"Has it been hard, raising Varien on your own?"  There was a tinge
of guilt in his face.
 
     Vayenna turned towards the orange fire near the horizon.  "No,
not really, Jim.  Your mother has helped us both, and Spock.  You
see him, Jim--so much like you, ready to conquer the universe and
make it safe for everyone.  He loves you so much.  You could do no
wrong in his eyes."
 
     "And you?" he wondered, turning her towards him.  Her eyes
were large and moist.  There were wrinkles at the sides of them,
but in the fading sunlight they were difficult to notice.  She was
still slim and still looked very young--still desirable.
 
     "I could love only you, Jim Kirk, regardless of all the other
women you've had...and of course your ship.  I always thought I was
the biggest dreamer in the whole world, but even so, one day I had
hoped you would come back to stay with me."
 
     Strangely, he did not turn away at her words, though she had
more than expected it.  Looking at him carefully, she asked, "I
know what Starfleet wants, Jim.  Are you ready to give up your
Enterprise?"  Her eyes searched his face and saw uncertainty
growing.  "Even if you're not, I'll still be here...waiting."
 
     He hesitated for only a moment and then took her in his arms
and kissed her hard, making love to her on the little strip of
beach by the dock as though it was thirty years ago.  Somewhere in
the stars above, a ship circled in orbit, patiently waiting.
 
                           * * * * *
 
     McCoy was winding up another you-can't-tell-me-that-wasn't-
emotion-Spock story when Kirk and Vayenna finally returned.  The
fire was low, a few burning embers glowing red on their faces. 
Varien was the first to notice their return, and he could readily
discern by the relaxed look on both that something pleasant had
transpired between them.  And they sat very close together, holding
hands.
 
     "Well, Jimmy-boy," McCoy drawled mischievously, "you've been
gone quite awhile.  I wonder what you could have been--"
 
     Spock cleared his throat in interruption, startling McCoy when
he saw the source.  "Why, Spock, that was a human reaction!  You
don't think I'd embarrass Jim, now do ya?"
 
     Spock waved a hand quickly in front of his face.  "It was only
a momentary inhalation of smoke causing me the need to clear my
throat."
 
     Varien reached over and placed a log on the embers.  "I
remember growing up on a lake not to far from here," he related
introspectively, winking at mother.  "There was a girl I used to
see every summer.  What was her name, Mom?"
 
     "Wendy, Wendy Emerson," Vayenna recalled, winking back. 
 
     "Yes, Wendy.  Curly chestnut hair and beautiful eyes--she had
the nicest--"  Varien looked around him, almost expecting someone
else to clear their throat, "smile of any one I ever knew.  And
when she laughed, you thought the secrets of the universe were
about to unfold.  Sometimes I dream of just ordering the Avenger to
slingshot back in time just so I can see her once more."
 
     McCoy looked over at Kirk to see if there was any reaction. 
At another point of time, the irony in Varien's words might have
been too much for him, but the Captain's mind seemed to be far from
past history.  McCoy then looked at Spock as he said, "That's the
gift of emotion, Varien, to be in love, something no Vulcan will
ever know."
 
     "Ahh, yes Doctor, so you have said many times."  Spock nodded
slowly to himself.  "But I have been in love, and I know what it is
to be happy."
 
     S'Manluk regarded Spock curiously.  "Please explain, Mr.
Spock.  Did you allow these emotions to overcome your logic?"
 
     McCoy couldn't have asked the question better, although
S'Manluk's query did not have the obligatory baiting tone McCoy's
would have had.  Spock did not hesitate.  "The specific reference
I was giving, S'Manluk, was while we were investigating Sanderval's
planet.  I was introduced to the effects of a symbiotic organism
which suppressed my Vulcan mastery of emotion and logic.  Yet it is
as I told you, S'Manluk, Vulcans do indeed feel emotion, perhaps
more deeply than humans, nonetheless, we strive not to let it rule
our lives.  But there is no shame in having those emotions."
 
     McCoy shifted his jaw in memory and said softly, almost
apologetically, "You do have a nice smile, Spock, when you want to
use it."
 
     Spock regarded McCoy carefully, the two locked in eye contact. 
There was no expression of hostility in the Doctor's eyes, and
Spock was not bothered by the intimacy of the contact.  Again came
the feeling of friendship without the need of concealment in verbal
insults or criticisms.
 
     Kirk broke the silence.  "Well, it looks as though it's time
to head in."
 
     "Yes," agreed Mrs. Kirk.  She had been strangely silent the
entire evening.  Cheerfully, she added, "And there are plenty of
beds for everyone, so no one need do any beaming anywhere for
tonight."
 
     Kirk went over and slung an arm around his mother's shoulders. 
"Who knows, Ma, maybe before the winter comes, we'll turn the boat
house into a guest room."
 
     Mrs. Kirk laughed.  Spock and McCoy both raised an astonished
eyebrow at their Captain's remark and what it meant.
 
                     **********************
 
     The air was crisp and clean.  The sun was creeping above the
horizon but remained partially hidden by a line of trees.  Jim Kirk
had been up at least an hour, sitting alone in the boat shed in an
upper storage loft, feet dangling in the air.  It had been some
time since there had actually been anything stored in the loft,
regular cottage things like smelly fishing equipment and air
mattresses.  The tackle was long since gone, but the smell of the
prize fish it had hooked had seeped into the wood itself and would
remain there for as long as the shed was standing.  Nothing aroused
his memories more than a smell, especially this one.  Sam and him
arguing over whose fish was bigger, or once, when their Dad had
spent a few days with them, and he had caught a twelve pound
smallmouth.  'Why Jimmy, that fish looks like its big enough to fit
you in its stomach...'  With a creak of a door, Varien appeared
below.
 
     "Hey, watcha doin' up there, cowboy?"
 
     Kirk grunted to himself.  Varien's call was so casual, so boy-
like, he could have been an older brother.  "Come on up, if you're
not too scared of heights, pardner," came a responding taunt.
 
     With the ease of his youth, Varien shimmied up the loft ladder
as if he'd done it a million times before and jumped over by Kirk. 
"Grandma sure looks, good, eh?"
 
     "'Eh?', that sounds like the Canadian in you, Varien."
 
     "Hey, this is my home country.  I grew up here, Iowa-boy."
 
     Kirk grinned.  "It is beautiful here, isn't it?  I remember
Dad building the Sea Witch for Sam and me.  I used to sit right
here and watch him.  What a time we had bringing her out to the
water--she sank within the first five minutes of launch!"  They
both laughed together, Kirk gazing longingly at the floor of the
boat shed where the Sea Witch had been built.
 
     A sad look crossed Varien's face.  "I wish I'd known him. 
Grandma says he was a lot like you, hot-tempered, rash, stubborn,
all wrapped around a good heart."
 
     Kirk nodded.  "That was Dad, all right."
 
     "Whatever happened to him, Jim?  I've done my best to find
out, but no one seems to know, or want to remember."
 
     Kirk became quite solemn.  "He disappeared on an ambassadorial
mission.  They never found him nor a trace of his ship."
 
     "Do you think he might still be alive?  Out there, somewhere?"
 
     Kirk eyed his son carefully.  "If I thought there was even a
remote chance, I would have turned this galaxy upside down looking
for him."
 
     Varien sighed sadly, then turned to Kirk suddenly.  "Do you
know, I heard a rumour about Grandpa.  It was from a old friend of
Robert April's, the first Captain of the Enterprise."
 
     "April," murmured Kirk, "I remember him.  They tried to force
him into retirement.  Because of him, there is no longer any
mandatory age of departure."
 
     "Well, this gentleman says he knew Grandpa, and said that
George Samuel Kirk was the very first, First Officer on board the
Enterprise.  It was on some top secret mission to rescue a colony
ship trapped in an ion storm.  The Enterprise's initial run,
unnofficially.  She didn't even have markings then."
 
     Kirk looked at Varien for a moment, a set of chills running
down his spine.  "Are you sure, Varien?  He wrote to Sam and me
about some mission he went on, but I never dreamed it was the
Enterprise..."
 
     "It seems the Enterprise and the Kirks have had a long history
together."  Varien paused for a moment in thought.  Finally, he
admitted, "It was my dream to take over from you, Dad.  The
Enterprise, flagship of the Federation, captained only by Kirks--
could you imagine the Romulans and Klingons having to forever see
a Kirk captaining the Enterprise?"
 
     Kirk smiled for a moment, then stopped in reflection. 
"Varien," he said slowly, "I like you.  If I could chose the way a
son could turn out, it would be you.  But I want you to be sure
what you're getting into...I want you to hear something my Dad once
wrote to me and Sam.  I'll never forget it:  'Don't love something
that doesn't love you back.'  Lately, it's been running in my
mind."
 
     "Does that mean you, or the Enterprise?" Varien asked quietly. 
"'Cause I can't help not loving you.  And I know that the love
given by a ship is a cold one--that it seems to go only one way
with only the ship taking, but in the end, what that love
translates into is the willingness to give your life so that others
can sleep in peace."
 
     "You sound like McCoy..."
 
     After a moment of silence, Varien asked quietly, "Are you
thinking of giving it up, Dad?"
 
     Kirk rubbed his forehead with a hand.  "Have I given enough,
Varien?"
 
     "More than anyone else ever has.  But whatever you decide,
know that Spock and McCoy, and your mom, and Vayenna and me, we
will always be here."  Smiling smugly, he added, "Greatness
attracts greatness."
 
     Kirk gave him a smile.  Mrs. Kirk and Vayenna peeked into the
boatshed.  "C'mon you two, everyone's waiting for breakfast,"
Mrs. Kirk called.
 
    With a quick slap on his father's shoulder, Varien was up and
heading for the ladder.  "C'mon, Dad, let's eat."  With a roguish
grin, he added, "I still owe you a swim, don't I?"
 
     Breakfast had just finished when Spock's communicator beeped. 
A second before, the room was loud with the competing talk of
arguing voices, like any family after a meal.  A second later all
was quiet.
 
     "Spock here."
 
     "Commander Spock, this is Admiral Barrett.  Please inform
Captain Kirk that he is to immediately return to the Enterprise. 
All shore leave is immediately cancelled for both Enterprise and
Avenger personnel."
 
     "Commander, may I ask why?"
 
     "You'll have your answer once aboard the Enterprise.  There
will be a Priority One communications awaiting.  Barrett out."
 
     McCoy gritted his teeth.  "Damn Starfleet!  First they want
Jim out, and now they have some Priority message and need him to
save the universe one more time."
 
     Kirk had to laugh.  "Well, gentlemen, I don't have to go, do
I?"
 
     "Indeed, none of us have to go, Jim."
 
     "Right, Jim," McCoy added, agreeing with Spock.
 
      Varien reached over to a knapsack and pulled out his
communicator.  "Kirk to Avenger."
 
     "Avenger here, Captain.  What's up?"
 
     "Sorry Briggs, but shoreleave is cancelled effective
immediately.  Recall all personnel and standby to beam up myself
and Mr. S'Manluk."
 
     "You mean Manluk, sir?"
 
     Varien made a mental note to officially log S'Manluk's request
for change of name.  "Yes, Briggs, on my order."  He turned to face
the others as S'Manluk rose automatically to stand by his Captain. 
"Well, gentlemen, whatever you decide, we'll have to do this again. 
Bye, Grandma.  See you soon, Mom.  I love you both.  Energize, Mr.
Briggs."
 
     Kirk saw Vayenna almost reach out to the fading lights in
anguish.  Mrs. Kirk looked on, and understood.  "Well, Jim?" asked
McCoy, knowing the answer.
 
     "We're going back to the ship, my friends."
 
      Vayenna's face showed a quick shadow of dispair.  She turned
to him, regaining composure.  He grinned at her.  "Don't worry,
Vay, I won't let anything happen to him.  It's probably nothing,
anyway.  We'll both be back before you know it, and this time I
think it will be for good."
 
     "I'll be here, Jim, you know that."
 
     Kirk reached out a hand and touched her on the shoulder. 
"C'mon, gentlemen, let's get the ship in order.  Kirk to
Enterprise, three to beam up."  An unfamiliar voice responded with
an 'Aye-sir.'  Obviously it was someone new that had got stuck on
ship's duty while everyone else was enjoying shoreleave.  
     
     Kirk rose followed by Spock and McCoy, the three standing in
an age-old familiar pattern.  There was sadness in his words when
he said, "Good-bye Mom.  Good-bye, Vay."  Spock and McCoy nodded in
farewell.  The energizing lights shone and through the whine, the
two women faintly heard, "I love you both."

NOTE:  THIS IS JUST PART 6
HERE'S PARTS FIVE AND SIX EVERYONE.  I'LL REPOST UP TO SEVEN ON
MONDAY.
 
 
PARTS FIVE AND SIX 
 
     Dunn had the option of speaking directly to Kirk, or pre-
recording the Starfleet directive.  He was tempted to give the
orders in person, but thought better of it.  He didn't feel like
fielding any questions, questions Kirk was bound to have.  Even
Barrett was surprised when he agreed to let the gung-ho Captain in
command.  The Klingons hated him.  The Romulans hated him.  To
Dunn, the irony was inescapable.  War would have to happen, and
chances were Kirk would be right in the middle of it.  Klingon and
the Federation would have a common enemy, and therefore a common
bond.  Just in case, he included the Avenger prototype in the
starship array.  The Klingons would respect it, and the Romulans
would fear it.  He wondered if her Captain was as warlike as the
ship's design.  No doubt Starfleet had chosen someone in the Kirk
mould.  Yes, war was inevitable.
 
 
     The two Kirks, side by side in the Enterprise briefing room,
calmly waited for the computer to decode the Priority One message. 
Finally, after voice code authorization, Admiral Dunn appeared
behind the blue seal of Starfleet.  Jim Kirk was not surprised the
message was pre-recorded.  Dunn, nor any other Starfleet Admiral,
dare not face him in person.  Not after so soon asking to see the
legend of James T. Kirk forgotten.  
 
     "...sector seven where you are to rendezvous with the
Starships Potemkin, Lexington, and Excalibur.  The D-1 prototype
Avenger will accompany the Enterprise as a deterrent to potential
hostilities.  The Klingon Ambassador has assured me that there will
also be three Battlecruisers at your disposal."
 
     A holograph appeared in the centre of the desk.  "This is the
planet Tridare located at the edge of the neutral zone where the
Federation-, Romulan-, and Klingon-claimed space meet.  For the
past ten years, Tridare is where scientists from all three
respective parties could exchange cultural and scientific
information.  There is only one main city, Babylon."
 
     The holograph faded and Admiral Dunn's face appeared once
more.  Kirk had known Dunn when he was a Captain, and not a very
good one at that.  From what he had heard, the man made a worse
Admiral.
 
     "Reports from Babylon state there is a massive Romulan force
present.  Seven state of the art birds-of-prey.  We don't know why
they are there, and if they are using Tridare as a prelude to
invasion.  Regardless, the Federation recognizes this as an
opportunity to cement ties with the Klingon Empire.  While the
Federation would regret if hostilities were to occur, Federation
and Klingon ships fighting side by side would assure peace and co-
operation for both, not to mention assuring Klingon's place as a
full partner in the Federation..."
 
     Jim Kirk turned to his son. "Fighting side by side," he echoed
sceptically.
 
     "It also seems contrary to what the Federation stands for,
Dad.  Since when did we need a war to have peace?"
 
     Kirk gritted his teeth.  "Romulans are ruthless soldiers, but
frankly, I find them more honourable than Klingons.  It doesn't
look like a good trade off."
 
     "...Commander Kaarg.  Utmost co-operation is required with the
Commander, Kirk, I can't stress that enough.  He won't be in charge
of the Federation force, but if he has any worthy suggestions, I
strongly recommend you listen.  The eyes of the Federation and the
Klingon Empire are upon this mission.  I know you'll do your best. 
Good luck, Captain.  Admiral Dunn out."
 
     "So now the Klingon's entry into the Federation seems
dependent on starting hostilities with the Romulans...Varien, I am
really starting not to like the Federation."
 
     Varien shrugged his shoulders.  "Looks like it's time we
informed the crew."
 
     Varien started to rise but Kirk put his hand on the young
Captain's shoulder, gently pushing him back into his seat. 
"Varien," came the words slowly, "I really don't like the idea of
you coming along on this mission."
 
 
     Varien's face immediately turned defensive.  "Wait," his
father said, looking equally defensive, "I don't mean you're not
qualified, you've shown that you are, it's just that you have a
ship still in the testing stage, not to mention the fact that the
Avenger is going to be under the direct scrutiny of both the
Klingons and the Romulans."
 
     Varien nodded, waiting for more.  Kirk continued, "What I want
you to do is stay back, draw as little as possible attention to
your ship as possible.  And by no means engage your distortion
field unless its absolutely necessary.  I don't think it's a good
idea to have you coming, but Starfleet has ordered you into the
response fleet, so I'm sure there is good reason for you to be
here."
 
     "I understand, Captain," Varien returned officially.
 
     Jim Kirk looked at his son.  "I want you to be careful--for
your Mother...and for me.  I don't know what I would--"
 
     Varien cut him off.  He saw the worry, saw how difficult it
was for his father to express his concerns.  "Dad, its okay. 
Whatever happens, I'm where I want to be.  Always remember that. 
I'm just glad I'm with you now...serving together, that's all I
ever wanted when I joined the Academy."
 
     The two men rose together, an unsaid bond between them,
Captain to Captain, and Father to Son.
     
 
 
     There were nine officers in the Enterprise main briefing room. 
At one end of the table sat Varien Kirk surrounded by the two high-
ranking officers of the Avenger, S'Manluk and Lieutenant Dearla. 
At the other, James Kirk, with Spock, McCoy, Sulu, Chekov and
Scotty.  No one was enjoying the Priority One orders.
 
     "Damn, Jim, how much more are you gonna take from Starfleet?" 
McCoy's question was vague enough that only a very few knew what he
was asking.
 
     "Bones, they put me in charge, whatever that means, and I'll
be damned before I start a war.  But if it is a fight the Romulans
are looking for, I won't back away either.  We'll wait until we
reach Tridare to fully assess the situation before deciding."
 
     McCoy nodded, mumbling something that was best kept to
himself.  He knew there was no one he'd rather have than Jim Kirk
in charge.  The question was more to voice his own frustration at
Starfleet for the way they were treating his friend.  The
seriousness of the situation didn't help to relax him either.
     
     Spock played with several tapes between his fingers. 
"Captain, it has been our experience that the Romulans are a people
whose basic precepts are structured around honour and duty. 
Indeed, we both know that several overtures of peace have recently
been made by the Romulan Empire, particularly where Vulcan is
concerned.  For them to begin a war at this juncture seems quite
illogical."
 
     "I know Spock, it doesn't make any sense to me either.  Why
would the Romulans even bother to wait at Tridare?  What could be
so important there?"
 
     "Captain," mentioned Sulu, "they have attacked first before. 
Perhaps they want to test the new design of their warbirds, only
setting us up for a trap this time."
 
     "That's right, Kaptin," followed Chekov.  "From what we know,
the Romulans only attack if they believe they have the upper hand."
 
     Lieutenant Dearla spoke for the first time, and everyone
turned to face the only female of the group.  "I have studied
Romulan culture and I have spent time on Romulus.  I can tell you
that Romulan history with earth precluded any later peaceful
missions.  In the first Romulan/Earth war, neither side was able to
see the other, hence there was a greater terror from the ignorance
of what the attacker might appear to be.  In fact, in Romulan lore,
Earthmen are portrayed as monsters--baby-killers.  From the time of
that war, Romulans have striven to perfect battle technology in
order to protect themselves from the threat of Federation attack. 
Remember, gentlemen, it was us, out of our own fear and lack of
knowledge, that began the first Romulan war."
 
     Kirk looked at the Lieutenant first as a woman.  Long black
hair, pale skin, smooth lips, with eyes of chocolate brown.  But
those eyes were not warm.  They were ice.  Cold, efficient, and
academy trained.  "What's your recommendation then, Lieutenant?  We
have to deal with the situation today, regardless of past wars or
who started them."
 
     Cool eyes stared into his own.  "Simply this, Captain.  Going
to Tridare with a combined force of Federation and Klingon ships is
going to make the Romulans very nervous.  Talk to them, be open
with them, and you will find them to be reasonable people."
 
     Spock nodded.  "I agree, Jim.  Romulans are indeed very
reasonable.  Perhaps in time, they will even re-adapt to the Vulcan
philosophy of logic, peace, and respect for diversity.  We did once
share Vulcan with them."
 
     Kirk pursed his lips in thought then glanced down the table. 
"Varien, what are your thoughts on this?"
 
     "I agree with Lieutenant Dearla, sir.  Leave the battle force
behind and offer them some cake.  There's more than enough universe
to go around."
 
     "Sir," ventured a puzzled S'Manluk to his Captain, "Romulans
do not enjoy Terran cake and in fact detest foods of sweetness.  I
would recommend a meal more desirable to their tastes."
 
     Varien smiled.  "It was a figure of speech, S'Manluk."
 
     S'Manluk raised an eyebrow in response.  "I see."
 
     "So it's agreed," finalized Kirk at the other end of the
table.  "We'll leave the battle contingent outside the Tridare
system.  Mr. Spock and myself will then shuttle to the planet to
show our good intentions and set up a diplomatic discussion.  Are
there any further questions, gentlemen?"
 
     Scotty came through for the first time.  "Uh, sir, are you
forgetting someone?"
 
     "And who would that be, Mr. Scott?"
 
     "The Klingons, sir.  I'm sure they are not gonna sit back and
play fizzbin while you meet with the Romulans."
 
     "Yes, Mr. Scott, you're quite right.  I suppose this Commander
Kaarg will want a piece of the action.  Kirk to bridge."
 
     "Uhura here, sir."
 
     "Let me know when we are within visual contact with any
Klingon battlecruisers."
 
     "Aye, sir."
 
     "Mr. Spock, please inform the Starships Potemkin, Excalibur,
and Lexington of our plans.  Better code it as well.  Once we reach
Tridare, we'll assess the situation further and finalize our plans
with a general meeting."  Kirk eyed everyone around the table.  "I
want no mistakes.  No hostile action is to be taken under any
circumstances.  I want that made clear."  Sighing audibly, the
Captain finished, "As to the Klingons, I'll take care of Commander
Kaarg.  Meeting's adjourned for now, everyone."
  
     Dearla departed for the Avenger, S'Manluk escorting her, while
Chekov and Sulu left for the bridge.  Scotty went to his engines. 
Kirk had asked Varien to stay for a moment, motioning Spock and
McCoy to remain as well.
 
     "Spock, estimated time until we reach the Tridare system."
 
     "Two hours, twenty-seven minutes at present speed of Warp six,
Captain.  Fifteen point three minutes to the Klingon rendezvous."
 
     "Jim," asked a concerned Doctor McCoy, who was also feeling a
bit left out, "are you sure you don't need my company on the
shuttle?"
 
     "No, Bones.  If anything happens, I want you here on the
ship."
 
     'But that's exactly why I want to be with you, if anything
happens...,' McCoy thought.  But he answered, "Sure, Jim."
 
     Four figures strode out of the briefing room heading for the
Captain's quarters.  A young crewwoman nervously came up to Kirk. 
"Here's the reply from the three starships, Captain, sir."
 
     Kirk scanned the response without so much as a look at his
crewmember, his mind formulating possible stratagems to
complications which might arise.  Varien, however, stared openly at
the woman's face, and how tight-fitting her uniform appeared to be.
 
     "Fine, yeoman," Kirk said tersely with a quick initialling of
the report.
 
     Varien's eyes remained transfixed on the crewwoman as she
started down the hall.
 
     "Varien, you don't have to ogle," admonished Kirk as he
observed his son's actions, "it's not becoming of a Captain."
 
     McCoy's mouth dropped.  "Geez, Jim, aren't you being a little
stiff?  Varien is just emulating his father, that's all."
 
     Spock remained coyly silent at the comparison.  "I was never
so obvious as that, Bones," denied Kirk with a finger at Varien,
who was still watching as the crewwoman turned past a corridor.
 
     Varien bounced several times up and down on his toes and then
mumbled, "Uh, excuse me, gentlemen, I believe I know that
girl...Yeoman!"
 
     "Varien, you come back here!  Varien!"  A disapproving James
Kirk shouted to no avail.  Varien had already disappeared down the
corridor in pursuit of the yeoman.
 
     "Whatsamatter, Jimmy, feeling a little old?" teased McCoy. 
"He's just like you when you were his age.  There wasn't a woman
safe within--"
 
     "McCoy," returned Kirk sharply at the needling, "No matter
what you say, I'm still too young to be a grandfather!"
 
     Both McCoy and Spock exchanged bemused glances and then turned
to follow their Captain.
 
 
     The four starships broke out of warp and eased up toward the
Klingon triad.  Kirk, on the Enterprise bridge, had ordered full
stop while Uhura patched in a visual with the lead Klingon vessel. 
Kirk noted it was a young Commander who appeared, and a frown
crossed his face.  All he needed was a glory-hunting Klingon
Captain as an additional problem, and it looked as though this is
exactly what he had on his hands.
 
     "This is Captain James T. Kirk of the U.S.S. Enterprise.  Are
you Commander Kaarg?"
 
     "I am Kaarg, newly appointed Supreme Commander of the Klingon
Empire."
 
     The Klingon commander smiled shiftily.  Like most Klingon
warriors Kirk had dealt with, he was large, swarthy, and seemed
particularly untrustworthy.  No doubt Kor, who had held this post
the last Kirk knew, was dead, and more than likely assassinated by
the ambitious Commander before him.  "On behalf of the United
Federation of Planets, I bid you greetings."  For Kirk, it was a
well-rehearsed line.  He did not think he could say it if he had to
think about it.
 
     Kaarg nodded as if obeisance had just been offered.  "You will
accompany us to Tridare, Kirk.  You and your ships will follow
behind--"
 
     "Commander," interrupted Kirk to the distaste of the Klingon,
"it was my understanding that we would be leading this peaceful
expedition with myself in command.  It has been decided, with your
approval, of course, to leave the starships just outside the
Tridare system while two representatives, myself and Mr. Spock,
shuttle to the planet to see if things can't be settled peacefully. 
Two representatives--perhaps yourself included--can follow us down
to the planet once we make contact."  Kirk waited for a comment.
 
     The Commander nodded, as if he had expected as much from Kirk. 
He condescendingly spat a reply.  "You Earthmen always speak of
peace.  Negotiation.  It is a coward's way.  I have heard so much
of you, Kirk, the great Federation Captain.  Worthy to be a
Klingon, it is said."  Kaarg put a hand to his chest.  "I see the
truth for myself, as I have always known.  Very well, great Kirk,
send your two 'representatives'.  'Discuss'.  I will await your
word--if the Romulans do not decide to destroy you first.  Then we
will see."
 
     Kirk smiled, pleasantly.  "Fine.  We'll finalize our plans
once we hit the Tridare system."
 
    Kaarg's screen went blank as a response, replaced by the three
Klingon vessels.  Kirk sighed audibly then ordered, "Mr. Sulu, get
us to Tridare, best possible speed.  Let's get this over with
before Kaarg decides to start shooting at us instead."
 
     "Best possible speed, sir.  We'll reach the Tridare system in
two hours, six minutes."
 
     "Lieutenant Uhura, notify our fellow starships of our plans. 
Tell them we'll finalize our plans once we are at the Tridare
system.  And could you have, I mean, request, Captain Kirk of the
Avenger to meet me in my quarters.  He's somewhere on the
Enterprise--that is, if he's not too busy."
 
     Uhura smiled.  "Aye, sir."
 
     Spock drifted over before Kirk made it to the turbo-lift. 
"Captain?"
 
     "Yes, Mr. Spock?"
 
     "An observation.  Tridare is a scientific planet.  It has no
defense shielding, no weaponry.  It would be a great loss to the
galaxy should it be damaged in any way."
 
     "I understand, Mr. Spock.  Should things get nasty, we'll try
to pull away from Tridare to avoid injury to the planet and the
populace."
 
     Spock nodded.  "I would also request that you allow me the
company of the Avenger's first officer until arrival."
 
     Kirk turned to face Spock.  "Of course, Spock."  Not realizing
exactly what he was saying, he observed inquisitively, "He seems to
be a bit of a son to you, does he not?"
 
     "I have taken him into our family.  I am his 'moso wan', his
foster father in earth terms."
 
     Kirk eyed his first officer with surprise inducing Spock to
explain further.
 
     "He was without living relations, alone, without direction. 
I quite know what that is like--to be alone.  Indeed, Captain,
while I was genetically engineered, S'Manluk was not.  His birth,
I would say, was miraculous."
 
     "Miraculous?"
 
     "The odds of a non-genetically engineered birth between a
human and a Vulcan are over three billion to one."
 
     Kirk smiled.  "He appears to be a fine Vulcan, Spock."
 
     "Thank you, Captain."  It was the best compliment anyone could
say to Spock regarding S'Manluk.
 
     "And Spock.  You've done a fine job looking after Varien.  I
wanted to say I'm sorry for the way I reacted before."
 
     "Not necessary, Jim.  I understood."
 
     Spock gave him a warm smile which left the Captain of the
Enterprise feeling more a part of the universe than he had since
his childhood; since Sam and since his father.  He had a family
again, a very large and very unique family.
 
     He left Spock off at the transporter deck and made for his
quarters.  Once inside, he punched his recorder and began, 
     "Captain's Personal Log:  Stardate 9400.5
 
     Recent events have delayed my decision on retirement as
requested by Starfleet.  To accept means virtual exile, and yet
with the knowledge of having another son, James Varien Kirk--"
 
     Kirk pressed the pause on the log recorder.  With the touch of
a button, he visualized Varien's service record.  Honours with
everything he did, outstanding commendations, Varien's record read
like a young James T. Kirk's right down to his first assignment as
ensign on board the U.S.S. Farrugut.  He flipped over to another
part of Varien's file.  Access denied with proper identification,
blinked the screen.
 
     "Kirk, James T., Captain U.S.S. Enterprise.  Code Avenger
One."  The screen opened up to a picture of the Avenger and a list
of her crew.  On a certain Vulcan's recommendation, Varien had the
honour of being selected as the Avenger's first Captain.  Not
surprisingly, a half-Vulcan, half-human first officer had also been
selected on Spock's personal recommendation.  Kirk pressed the log
recorder button once more.
 
     "Mr. Spock, First Officer of the Enterprise, the finest in the
Fleet, and my longtime friend, has selected Varien to captain a
new-style Federation ship, The Avenger.  While I still feel the
sting of the death of David Marcus, another son of mine whose
mother was Scientist Carol Marcus, I did not know him in the short
time we had together.  With Varien, I feel I've known him all my
life, and he is more like a brother than a son.  He appears
indestructible, as I once did.  Yet I can't help but feel worried
for his safety.  I have the fear of losing someone that is almost
as close to me as Spock and McCoy.  Given a little longer, Varien
would surely mean even more.  I am so...worried for him, yet I
trust Spock and his judgement with my life.  Therefore, I am left
with no choice then to trust that same judgement with Varien's, as
Spock has done by assigning his adopted son S'Manluk to Varien's
command.  May he have the same luck the Enterprise and her crew
seems to have had.  Kirk out."
 
     With a sigh, Kirk slid back into his chair.  So this is what
it means to be a father, to worry for the safety of a child.  What
Mom must go through--
 
     "Come," Kirk immediately responded to the door buzz.
 
     Varien strode in, two white robes tucked under his arm. 
"Well, howdy, Pops."  He sat down on the bed as if it were home.
 
     Grinning, Kirk said, "I thought you might be too tired to make
it back to your ship with all the exercise you've been getting
lately. "
 
     "Hey," laughed Varien, "I have to keep up the family line." 
Separating one of the robes, he tossed it at Kirk.  "There's
another matter to settle, as well.  I want another chance.  One on
one, in the rec room.  Ke Lei--for the pride of the Avenger."
 
     Kirk smiled in disbelief.  "You can't be serious..."
 
     "What, are ya too old, Jimmy-boy?"  The accent was clearly
Irish.  "Then just think of me as Finnegan--that might change
things."
 
     Kirk glanced at the robe than looked carefully back at Varien. 
"Yes, you would make a good Finnegan.  You can't beat the
Enterprise so you want to fight an old man."
 
     "Oh, I gave strict orders that the next time we battle the
Enterprise..." Varien paused for effect, then snapped, "we take no
prisoners!"
 
     Kirk laughed, rose with the robe, and pushed Varien out the
door.
 
                         * * * * *
 
     "Spock, tell me more of Vulcan."
 
     Spock looked deeply into S'Manluk's eyes of gold.  The young
Vulcan had on a black robe, as did Spock, and both were seated in
the traditional position of Vulcan meditation.  Spock thought for
a moment what it was like to be a Vulcan and never touch the home
world.  "Vulcan is a world of contrast, S'Manluk," he began
reflectively.  "There is the desert, Vulcan's Forge, where every
Vulcan when he is of age earns the right for the kahs-wan, the time
when a Vulcan child is recognized as an adult."  Spock detected a
faint glimmer of dismay in S'Manluk' eyes.  "Yet it is purely
ceremonial.  Its purpose is to allow the individual to find within
himself the seeds of manhood, and turn his back on his time of
youth.  You have surpassed all facets of kahs-wan, S'Manluk, in
your trials of youth.  You have survived what might have driven a
lesser Vulcan mad."
 
     S'Manluk understood and felt comfort in Spock's words.  A
Vulcan, even though he was only half, and he had never touched the
planet of his roots except through Spock's mind.  To never have
been watched by T'Khut, Vulcan's moon of one eye, or felt the sting
of the winds in Vulcan's Forge, the place of harshness where every
Vulcan heart yearned to be, where the very first Vulcans, with
their minds filled with emotion and war, had initially tread after
the great burning.
 
     "There is beauty to be found in everything," continued Spock,
"but no where more so for a Vulcan than the ancient desert about
Mount Selaya.  It is there where kohlinar is found, the finding of
the true self, separated from all emotion.  The finding of the
truth of the One and the All--Nome."  Spock's fingers reached out
to S'Manluk, touching specific nerve points on his smooth, dark
skin.  "Our minds are one...as one we journey into the roots of
Vulcan, to the roots of ourselves..."  Together, they shared the
history of Vulcan, living it as only two half-Terrans could.
 
 
     "Not bad, Junior, not bad at all."  Kirk feinted once more,
but Varien did not shift at the movement.  "Who taught you Ke Lei,
Varien?  He must have been very good."  Kirk circled his opponent
looking for an advantage.  "Very...very...good," he murmured more
to himself.
 
     "It was an old Soltarian master, dear Father.  He was half-
blind, but no man dared challenge him.  He had this one move..." 
Varien crossed his hands over and moved towards Kirk's head.  The
natural reaction to such a move in Ke Lei was to step back and wait
for the attacker to strike.  Then, utilizing the opponent's
momentum against him, the defender was to strike the right shoulder
while placing the right foot out for him to trip over after the
blow.  But as soon as Kirk had moved his leg out and brought his
hand back to strike the oncoming shoulder, Varien ducked, uncrossed
his arms into a surprised and off-balance father's legs, and pulled
back.  The net result was a Starship legend flat on his back, the
wind knocked out of him.
 
     "Score one for the Avenger," shouted Varien, pumping his fist.
 
     Kirk reached out and kicked a leg from underneath Varien who
immediately fell unceremoniously to the mat beside his father.
 
     "Hey, you don't play fair," Varien chided, sidling over to see
Kirk's view of the rec ceiling.
 
     "You should know I hate to lose."
 
     "Yes, I have to remember that...Pops."
 
     "Will you stop calling me Pops, Varien!  You make feel old."
 
     "What would you like then--Captain?"
 
     Kirk quickly flipped Varien onto his backed and grabbed an
arm, pulling it upwards.  "How about Uncle?"
 
     Varien shouted as though in a Klingon mind-sifter.  "Oww, oww,
Pops, you're hurting me...owww!"  
 
     McCoy walked into the rec room, hurrying a bit to see the
source of the commotion.  "Hey, Bones," came a playful call, "you
got any of those old wooden paddles doctors used to use on naughty
kids?"
 
     McCoy chuckled.  "No, I broke the last one on you, Jim."
 
     The two Kirks rose grinning.  The Doctor handed each a towel. 
"You wouldn't think the Enterprise was going out on another save-
the-Federation-mission the way you two are acting."
 
     "C'mon Bones, a little play before the storm to ease the
tension," returned Kirk while wiping off his face.  "We still have
thirty minutes before Tridare.  That's enough to make a pretzel out
of Varien."
 
     Varien forcefully choked.  "A pretzel!  Why I've fought
Tyrrenian Barsk tigers with one hand behind my back, and you think
you're going to make a pretzel out of me?"
 
     Kirk put a hand to his chin.  "A Tyrrenian Barsk
tiger...Bones, didn't we make Spock a pair of ear-warmers out of
one?"
 
     McCoy laughed at the picture.  With his best country drawl, he
commented dryly, "Jim, I'm gonna hafta see if you all have caught
some space sickness--it be a Starfleet first to have one Chief
Medical Officer declare two Captains unfit for command in one
sitting."
 
     With a wink, Kirk said, "Well Varien, I guess its back to
business.  I hope your Chief Med isn't as big a rain cloud as
ours."
 
     "Hmmm, then I think it's time I left."  Varien added hastily
with a wink at McCoy, "I better get back to my ship before I get
thoroughly soaked."  With a quick look to the ceiling to check on
the weather, Varien left McCoy and Kirk to themselves.
 
     "He's quite a boy, Jim."
 
     Kirk nodded and went to sit on a bench in the corner.  McCoy
leaned on the wall nearby.  "Bones, tell me how that kid got to be
Captain of Starfleet's first actual warship?...He seems so young. 
Will he be able to make the right decisions?  Will he know what to
do in a real life and death situation?"
 
     "Jim, you saw how he did against the Enterprise and you've
seen his record.  He's more than capable, I think you know that." 
McCoy edged off the wall and sat down.  "Jim, it sounds like you
have gotten a bit protective of Varien.  Is it because of David--"
 
     Kirk felt a rush of emotion at McCoy's words.  "Dammit, Bones,
no!  David's gone and buried.  But Varien is different."  He felt
strange saying those words--gone and buried.  Has his pain truly
left him?  McCoy had the answer.
 
     "Different because you know him?"  Kirk's face momentarily
winced.  "Jim, this is what being a father is all about.  Caring
about someone...loving them.  It's hard, maybe harder than being
the Captain of the Enterprise."
 
     "Then what do you suggest?"  Kirk's tone was cold, a lot
colder then he meant it to be.
 
     "Treat Varien as you would me or Spock, or any crew member on
the Enterprise.  Care about him, but understand that he has
responsibilities too.  He said the same Starfleet oath that you
did, and he knows the risks.  And I think no one knows those risks
more than you and him."
 
     Kirk turned to his friend, the one who he knew would give him
the best advice in all the universe.  "Bones, do you think I should
retire?"
 
     "I can't answer that for you, Jim.  I will tell you I don't
like the way Starfleet is going about it...more like exile than
retirement.  But if you can sit on the bridge of the Enterprise and
say to yourself 'I can leave here and never regret it', then I
think you have your answer already."
 
     "And what about you, Bones?  Have you thought about getting
out of the service?"
 
     McCoy sat back against the wall.  "I can't Jim, not without
you, not without Spock.  As long as one of you are out here, then
I have to be here too.  And don't think I wouldn't be happy being
a hundred years old and still keeping our pointed-eared friend in
line.  I just can't imagine being anywhere else except with the two
of you.  If it's on the Enterprise, that's fine.  If it's taking
the tonsils out of your grandchildren, then by God, I'll be just as
happy."
 
     The two sat in silence together until Uhura called down to
inform Kirk that the Enterprise was nearing the Tridare system.
 
 
 
     "Status, Mr. Sulu," Kirk inquired naturally as he took his
seat in the Captain's chair.
 
     "We'll be within the Tridare system in one minute, Captain."
 
     Spock left his science post and went to Kirk's side. 
"Captain, the Roylan black hole is near the Tridare system.  With
its near infinite mass, it makes a formidable sensor distorter."
 
     "Understood, Mr. Spock.  It seems we now have a device large
enough for us all, not just the Avenger.  Lt. Uhura, try hailing
one of the Romulan vessels.  See if you can reach their Commander."
 
     "Aye, sir."  Uhura began hailing the space ahead in standard
Romulan.  A light flashed on her board.  "I have ship to ship,
Captain."
 
     Kirk pursed his lips.  "Very good.  On screen, Lieutenant."
 
     The main viewer faded for a moment, then became the distorted
face of a Romulan commander.  Uhura apologized for the effects the
black hole was having on visual communication.  Kirk made the best
of the situation.  "This is James T. Kirk of the Starship
Enterprise representing the United Federation of Planets.  We come
in peace."  He halted for a moment then said, "It has come to our
atte