Slavery, Rites and Ceremonies

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Chapter Six



Closer to Home

            Kirk sat at his desk in his room tapping his fingertips impatiently. Finally the door beeped, “Come.”  The door opened and Spock came in standing at attention. The Captain stood up instantly, “What the hell is this?” He asked holding up a data disk “You must have lost your mind.” He said.

            Spock arched a brow clasping his hands behind his back, “I do not believe so.” He replied. The Captain looked even more frustrated than before, “Is this is about the request I have submitted for your approval, Captain?”

            “What would ever give you that impression, Mr. Spock?” Kirk snapped, “You can’t be serious! This . . .” He ran his hand over his face, “Under normal circumstances, I would have my reservations and need time to consider it. To weigh the pros and cons of granting permission to forward a request to Star Fleet for a civilian spouse to be stationed with you aboard a starship, is never the best idea when that spouse is NOT being pursued by an unidentified predator, let alone when they are!”

            “Captain, you must understand. She has not only been abducted twice . . . but it was when she was separated from my presence.” He stated. “After careful thought on the matter, it may be best if she is kept here with me at least until the child is born.”

            “That isn’t true.” Kirk countered, “The first time she was taken off this ship. Right off the ship while it was still in warp.”

            “Yes, but that was also accounted for by the device that the doctor found implanted in her brain stem. It and any other foreign object that does not belong in a Vulcan’s body were removed at that time.” He stated.

            The Captain didn’t seem to be getting his point across and he clasped his hands behind his back. “Spock, if Yanira’s suspicions and claims are correct, if it is in fact Star Fleet, which by the way is something I still cannot believe. But if it is Star Fleet that is after her, then it’s best if you take her back to Vulcan and make sure she is not anywhere she can remotely be exposed to Star Fleet or its personnel.”

            “That would be an impossible feat considering that my father is ambassador to Earth dealing directly with Star fleet regularly.” He said.

            “And you think surrounded by Star Fleet members, on a united starship is much safer than your home planet where she can be protected?” Kirk asked.

            “Jim, if you do not wish to agree to my request then it is your right to deny it.” Spock said not wanting to discuss this any longer.  

            Kirk realized that perhaps he was approaching it the wrong way, but at the same time this request hardly seemed to be a logical thing to do after all that had happened. The Captain paused a moment and recollected his thoughts, “Spock, you and Yanira have been spending more time in each other’s heads since the Klingon incident then you have in your own. Didn’t you tell me once that emotional transference was a side effect of the mind meld?” Spock didn’t answer, “Isn’t it possible, that you are somehow starting to feel her fears and anxieties of being separated from you again?”

            The Vulcan remained silent but now that he had time to clearly think about it was possible that his Captain was correct. “It is . . . possible.” Spock replied reluctantly. “But the desire to protect her and keep her safe is my own Captain. I cannot do so from across the galaxy and no one is better suited to protect her better then I.”

            “Yes, I suppose that’s true for every man where his family is concerned.” Kirk conceded. “But in this case and the extraordinary circumstances surrounding it . . . you know that what I’m saying is right. She must go back to Vulcan, and she must be protected there by her own people. The Enterprise is no place for an expecting young wife to be. Request denied” Spock nodded slightly in agreement, before turning and leaving the Captain’s quarters.

            Jim had the feeling that one more unspoken reason that Spock had put in this request, was that he wanted to be there for the birth of his son or daughter. What father wouldn’t be? As he had promised before he would get Spock there to see his child born without hesitation. That had not changed and it wouldn’t but he couldn’t approve this request that Spock had submitted. The trouble that followed Yanira was simply too much and distracted them from their mission. Although Yanira’s safety was his concern, he wanted her off his ship as soon as humanly possible.

 

Homecomings

            Bones and Kirk stood in the transporter room waiting to see Yanira and Spock off to the surface of Vulcan. Spock hadn’t said yet whether or not he wished the doctor and Captain to accompany them to the surface. Both Bones and Kirk noticed that it was taking some time for them to arrive. It was becoming a rather obscene amount of time at this point.

            “She didn’t have anything when she came aboard not even clothing. She certainly can’t be packing so what in the blazes is taking so long?” Bones asked.

            “Isn’t it obvious? She doesn’t wish to leave the ship or Spock. Considering the eternal nightmare that is her life can you blame her for wanting to stay close to the one person she has such a strong connection to.” Kirk said waiting.

            “So what do you think we’re going to have to do blow her out of Spock’s quarters with charges?” Bones asked.

            “Don’t give me any ideas.” Kirk muttered. “After Spock submitted his request, I thought I was going to have them both lined up in front of a firing squad.” He said. “Star Fleet is still quite interested in how a young woman her size was able to not only subdue and dismember several Klingon’s, but was so terrifying the other Klingon’s fled the ship in terror.”

            “I do my best not to think about it.” Bones said, “And any exams I perform on her nowadays, I tend to give her a sedative first. I’d rather not risk setting off that lovely little reaction she apparently has that results in carnage.”

            Finally, the door of the transporter room opened as Spock and Yanira came in. “Ready to beam down, Captain.” Spock said. Kirk gave a nod before signaling the transporter operator.

            “Will you need assistance?” Captain Kirk asked.

            “Yanira has requested that both you and Doctor McCoy accompany us.” Spock said. They instantly agreed and all four of the landing party stepped onto the transporter pad, and were beamed to the surface.

 

Safety Precautions

            Serek and Amanda used all the influence they had to arrange a safe house for Yanira to stay in beneath the surface of the planet where transporting devices would not be able to function. Of course she would have company, but only the best and most trustworthy guards would be selected to stay with her. The only ones who would know of her location would be Serek and Amanda. Of course they would never disclose her whereabouts to a soul.

           Yanira was of course given the things she would need to continue with her lessons, and all the freedom she needed to pursue her own course of education on history of the planets, including Vulcan and Earth which had become her favorite subjects above all others. The guards that were sent with her were screened and scanned frequently on a regular basis. Absolutely no one that was even remotely associated with Star Fleet would be permitted to go near her. Except Serek of course who was her father-in-law.

            Spock was satisfied that she would be safe here, and thanked his parents for their attentiveness to security, and would soon have to leave again even though they had only just returned Yanira to the planet. The Enterprise had already been called on another mission and he could not stay. He saw her off to the hiding place she would be taken to alone before returning to the Doctor and Captain Kirk and beamed back to the ship.

 

Time

            It seemed like an eternity since Spock left. It had been weeks since she had any communication from him. They could not speak directly for fear that the call would be traced. They would record messages and send them to Amanda and Serek who would pass them along from one to the other.

           Yanira wasn’t against being isolated. It made her feel safe and the quiet solitude gave her a chance to study and mediate uninterrupted with no distractions. But as her belly began to swell with the life that was growing inside of her she started to feel that perhaps she was not safe enough. Having already lost two of her children, she was determined that she would not lose a third. Her heart became heavy with concern, and it was beginning to show even though she attempted to hide it.

            When Serek came to visit and see how she was she was unable to make eye contact. She did not seem able to hide or control her feelings of fear and worry and she knew looking into his eyes would break what little concentration she had. Serek was far more understanding then any one could have expected him to be. He said nothing about the emotions that seemed to be leaking out through the cracks in her soul that had not yet healed.

            “Yanira,” Serek said seeing that she would not raise her eyes. “You are quite safe here in this place that was prepared for you, and you are under the protection of the Vulcan government. If Star Fleet is truly responsible for this they will not risk damaging relations between our planets. We are far too valuable to the federation. I promise you, that your child will be born in safety and will not be stolen from you like the others.”

            “Thank you, Serek.” She said softly. He arched a brow at her response that seemed to be as little as possible as if she worried of offending him.

            “You have done well in your studies. Made great efforts to adjust to your station in life. You do my son honor with  your determination and dedication to him. You command respect, Yanira. A respect that is well earned by your strength, by your loyalty, and by your will.” He reached out touching her chin and lifted her head slightly so she would look at him, “Never turn your eyes away. Never turn them down. You are not less than any other being in existence, despite what you may have been told or made to believe.” He said seriously.

            The young woman looked into Serek’s eyes, feeling as though his mere words gave her courage and confidence that she had been without for a very long time. “Serek . . .” She began but the words she wanted to say wouldn’t come.

            “I should be on my way.” He said standing and she quickly stood with him. “You need rest, and my staying here is only keeping you from it.” He said. She bowed her head slightly.

 

Long Distance News

            The Star Ship had gotten off course being sucked into a wormhole that shot them halfway across the galaxy. Luckily, it was on the edge but still in known Space. Unfortunately, it did have the disadvantage of putting them out of communication range for more than two weeks. Almost 15 days had gone by before they were picking up transmissions again.

            One, that seemed almost a week late in being delivered, was from Vulcan. Uhura did her best to sort out all the garbage and clear up the message. It took another day or two before the signal was strong enough to reach them.

            Spock had been incredibly anxious, although he tried to hide it, it did have a tendency to surface now and again. It had been nearly 9 months, 12 days, 14 hours and 22 minutes since they had left Yanira on Vulcan, and she was due to give birth at anytime the last he heard.

            Kirk and Bones did what they could to keep him busy and occupied even though Spock was very good at acting as though there was nothing on his mind at all except his work as second in command and the science officer of the Enterprise. His two friends knew better.

            One afternoon in the recreation lounge, Captain Kirk and Mr. Spock were playing 3 dimensional chess when a communication came over the intercom from the bridge.

            “Sir, transmission received from Vulcan.” Uhura reported.

            “Yes? What is it?” Captain Kirk responded.

            “It’s news for Mr. Spock. His wife gave birth to a healthy baby girl just 7 days ago.” Kirk looked at Spock, “Apparently they had tried to contact us as soon as it was known that she had gone into labor, but we were too far out of range to receive the communication.”

            The two men were quiet for a moment before Kirk responded; “Have Sulu plot a course for Vulcan, best speed.” He ordered.

            “Aye, sir.” Uhura responded before ending the call.

            Kirk was quiet not quite sure what to say. They had intended to make a break for Vulcan as soon as they received word on Yanira’s condition. The ship had been purposely patrolling around Vulcan knowing that Yanira was due, when they were taken out of reach by the wormhole that seemed to appear out of nowhere at the worst possible time. “Congratulations?” He offered.

            “Thank you, Captain.” Spock responded. A long pause filled the air, as Kirk seemed to be waiting for some sort of reaction or emotion to appear. Yet there was none, and Spock actually moved his chess piece. “Your move, Captain.” He said.

            The Captain just starred at his second in command before deciding to try and get him to at least acknowledge the event. “Are you disappointed that you weren’t there?” He asked.

            “Disappointment is a human emotion, Captain. Circumstances simply did not allow us to return to Vulcan as was originally intended.” He said still looking at the chess pieces waiting for Kirk to make is move.

            “You do realize that you are now a father? Correct?” Kirk said. “You have a daughter that was born in safety, who is alive and well waiting for you on your home planet?”

            “Yes, Captain. I too heard the report of the communication that Lt. Uhura received.” He said arching a brow.

            “Well . . . you’ve been concerned about Yanira’s health and safety . . . about the baby’s safety since before you even knew she was expecting again. Aren’t you happy that they are both alright and unharmed?” He inquired.

            “I am pleased to know that Yanira was able to remain hidden, and no one has been successful in finding her much less abducting her again. I am also pleased to know that our child is in good health and is also quite safe.” He replied, “Yet these are the reasons the precautions that were set in place to protect her were taken.”

            Kirk considered saying something else but it seemed like he was just going to continue to talk to a brick wall that would run him around in circles until he was ready to put a phaser to his own head. He gave a nod before looking back at the board a moment and moving his piece.

 

Celebrations

            “Alright, Bones. You got us here, now what’s up?” Kirk asked as he and Spock stood in Bones quarters.

            “Patience gentlemen,” He said charmingly before producing a bottle and glasses from a hidden spot in his quarters. He walked over and poured each of them a glass. “I had a feeling that throwing you a baby shower would be insulting to your intellectual stability, and stoic exterior you work so hard to maintain. So, I thought the three of us could simply celebrate by ourselves.” He said closing the bottle and passing the glasses around.

            Jim was able to recognize brandy when he smelled it and he was rather anxious to have some. Spock arched a brow looking at both of them, “I do not understand?” He said, “There are no children aboard the enterprise to shower. If you are referring mine I do not think it is something I would want my daughter to experience.” He said.

            Bones and Kirk both chuckled slightly, “No, Mr. Spock. It’s a term for a party that’s given for the baby. Or in this case, in honor of the baby since she isn’t here. You know, people bring gifts and such for the little one.” Bones said.

            “Ah.” He said thinking a moment, “We do have a similar practice on Vulcan. Although our terminology for the occasion differs from yours.” He said.

            “I’ll bet. What do you call it?” Kirk asked.

            “Neither you, nor the Doctor would be able to pronounce it.” Spock said. Kirk and McCoy both raised their glasses, and Spock who would usually decline alcohol of any sort decided to be gracious and took his glass as well. The doctor and the Captain toasted to the newest member of Spock’s family and drank.

 

Impatience

            The three Star Fleet officers all waited patiently at the entrance to Ambassador Serek’s home. Spock was the one who was pacing slightly waiting for his parents to return. Bones and Kirk quietly started counting the laps around the foyer Spock unknowingly started to make. It was over an hour before his mother appeared, having finally returned.

            “I’m sorry about the wait.” She said sincerely, “but as you know we have had to be exceptionally careful to make sure they’re kept safe. To the point that we are a little weary about you Captain, and you Doctor.” Amanda said indicating that they were Star Fleet officers as well as Spock’s friends.

            “I can assure you that we mean no harm, and we are just as concerned about their well being.” Kirk responded.

            She smiled warmly, “Yes, I believe that. More importantly, Spock does.”

            “May we see them?” Spock inquired trying to keep his anxiousness hidden.

            His mother smiled and wrapped her arm around his, “Come with me.” She said her eyes bright. Kirk and Bones followed them as she escorted them through the halls.

            They came to a pair of double doors upstairs and opened them carefully as the four slipped inside staying quiet. The window’s had been opened and there was a warm pleasant breeze flowing through the room, as a nursemaid stood when they entered. Walking over to the Vulcan bassinet, Spock looked down at the new little one. Kirk and Bones looked over his shoulder to see her too.

            She was perfect. Her ears were exactly like Spock’s. They came to a shaper point like his did, she had dark hair, and she looked Vulcan in every way. The nursemaid leaned over the crib and carefully picked up the sleeping baby handing her to Amanda. She smiled holding her close as she turned and showed the three men her new granddaughter who was sleeping quite contentedly as she yawned. Kirk and Bones couldn’t help but smile seeing how beautiful she was.

            “I don’t think I’ve ever seen a Vulcan newborn.” Kirk said still in awe of the little one. “You and Yanira did great.”

            Bones clasped Spock’s shoulder, “You’ve got yourself a good looking little girl there.” He said with a smile looking at her again.

            Spock expression stayed the same his hands clasped behind his back, just studying the little one. “Her name?” he asked after several moments.

            “Sarah.” Amanda answered.

            “Isn’t that a human name?” The Captain asked.

            “Yanira wanted a name that would reflect on Spock and Serek’s names, as well as reflecting something of both her and Spock.” She explained. Amanda smiled down at the little one rocking her gently, “Not to mention it fits her perfectly.”

             Spock nodded thinking about the name a moment, “Sarah . . .” He said, “I am content.” He said approving of the name that was chosen. Amanda smiled bowing her head slightly.

             Bones looked at Spock before looking back at Amanda. “Well, aren’t you going to hold your daughter?” He asked.

            “No.” He replied.

             Amanda could see the look on Bones and Kirk’s faces and decided she should explain, “Only women hold newborns on Vulcan, Captain.” She began.

             “That doesn’t make any sense.” Bones said, “Children need physical contact otherwise they could develop social disorders when they’re older . . .” The doctor paused and glanced at Spock. “Oh . . . actually that explains a lot.” He said crossing his arms.

              “Bones.” Kirk said quieting the doctor.

              “It’s alright Captain. I found it quite strange when I first married Serek, and had Spock. But, it is the Vulcan way and besides tradition, there are reasons and rituals that go back further than any human can imagine.” Amanda explained.

               Spock arched a brow as he looked around the nursery. The only one that was seen was the nursemaid, and he found it a bit odd. “Where is Yanira?” He asked, “I sent word that we would arrive today.”

               Amanda’s smile faded a little bit, as she looked at the baby. Then she turned and handed the baby back to the nurse, “Will you excuse us for a moment?” She said looking at Bones and Kirk.

               “Of course.” The Captain replied.

                Amanda took Spock by the arm and led him out into the hallway. Spock arched a brow, not quite understanding what was going on. “Yanira is ill.” She told Spock continuing to lead him wherever they were going.

                “Why was I not informed of this when I contacted you?” He said stopping and looking at her, “What sort of illness?”

                 She paused a moment and looked down, “I don’t know.” Amanda answered honestly. “I know it is not a subject to be spoken of, but she was unable to feed her child when she was born. She was heartsick about it yet her soul concern was Sarah. She allowed us to find a nursemaid. Since then Yanira has become increasingly ill. The doctors can find no reason for it.”

                  He furrowed his brow at this news, wondering why no one had mentioned it to him before now, why he wasn’t informed as soon as communication was established with the Enterprise.

                  “Come with me.” She said motioning for him to follow her.

 

Rearranged Meetings

 

            Spock walked next to the bed where Yanira lay. The curtains had been opened to let the light and warm air in but not to shine in her eyes or on her face. She was resting now, although it seemed an uneasy rest. Spock decided perhaps it would be best to leave for now and let her rest.

            “Did you see her?” He heard Yanira speak softly.

            Spock stopped his retreat, “Yes.” He answered. Another moment passed by before he heard her voice again.

            “She is beautiful, is she not?” Yanira’s voice remained soft and sounded weak.

            Spock turned and walked back to her bed. “Yes.” Spock responded. Her eyes were only partly open as she looked up at him. “Sarah . . . is a most appropriate name.” He said before he finally sat down beside her.

           Yanira smiled a little, “She looks like you.” Her hand slid over and covered his. “I am thankful for that.”

            “I have been informed that the doctors do not know the cause of your illness.” He said looking at her. “Also that if your decline continues you will not survive.” She was quiet, and didn’t answer as her eyes remained on his. “You have chosen to given up and to stop fighting.” He said after a moment.

            “I am not afraid to die, Spock.” She said honestly. “To be hones there are times in my life where I have wished for it. I wished for it more than anything. You are right I am tired of fighting.”

            “When I last reported for duty aboard the Enterprise, I left behind a woman on Vulcan who was prepared to move worlds and fight legions to protect our child. Where is that woman now?” He questioned.

            Yanira’s eyes closed for a moment as she took a breath before looking up at him. It seemed as though she didn’t have an answer. It was clear to Spock that she was incredibly depressed. Most likely for a number of reasons, and he couldn’t help but think perhaps his absence when she needed him by her side had been a large part of it.

            “Our daughter has great need of you, Yanira. You cannot leave her.” He said starring into her eyes. “She has the advantage that we did not, a mother and father that will understand exactly what she will go through. I will be away in Star Fleet for much of her young life she will need you more than ever.” Spock explained.                                                     

            “I would like to watch her grow. To see the person that she will become. I have not forgotten her, Spock.” Yanira said, “When I first held her in my arms, and her perfect hand wrapped around my finger I fell in love with her. I want more than anything to protect her and keep her safe from all things vile and horrid.” Her eyes moved towards his. “I do not know or understand why my body is weakening. Nor do any of our physicians. It has been gradual . . . but seems to get worse by the day.”

            Spock furrowed his brow slightly as he looked at her, the odd color to her skin and the dim look in her eyes. The Vulcan stood tossing the covers back off of her before crossing her arms over her middle and swept her up into his arms. “Doctor McCoy is one of the best medical minds in Star Fleet; he may detect something that the others did not. We shall test his knowledge in the sickbay aboard the Enterprise.”

 

Physical Anatomy

            Bones walked into his office where Spock and the Captain were waiting, leaving Yanira to rest in the next room. “I have now run every test known to medical science in the Star Fleet manual and data banks that are updated weekly.” He reported, “All the tests should be back in a couple of hours, and we’ll see what we got.”

            “Is it possible she contracted something in her travels? Developed an allergy to something on the planet?” The Captain questioned.

            “It is doubtful, Captain.” Spock said, “Not only was she in extreme isolation, but the Vulcan physicians that attended her would have already identified such causes.”

            “Maybe, but germs have a tendency to get stronger as we fight them. She might have gotten something that has mutated.” The doctor said, “However, if that was the case, someone else who was in contact with her should have contacted the same disease. All of her attendants and your parents are in perfect health.”

            “So I guess this means, you don’t have any ideas to what this might be either.” Captain Kirk said.

            “I’m not certain. She started getting sick after the baby was born, and I’m wondering if there might be something during the birth that might have triggered it. Some past injury might be a possibility, or she might have been carrying bacteria that didn’t affect her system until she lost an enormous amount of blood was in a weakened state to take advantage of the opportunity.” He suggested. “We’ll know more when the tests are returned.”

 

Exploratory

            Bones stood over the surgery table; nurse Chapel assisting him with whatever was needed. Spock stood behind the glass of Bones office watching. It had been over two hours, much longer than any procedures usually took.

            The Captain appeared at the door and slipped into the office beside Spock. “I’m sorry I wasn’t able to come down with you when Bones informed you of the surgery. Needing you to stand by incase a Blood transfusion was needed.” Kirk apologized.

            “It is remarkable that she and I have the same blood type. Type T is incredibly rare among Vulcan’s. Not only does she have it, but it has human abnormalities as mine does. No one else in the universe . . .” He couldn’t even finish the sentence, he was too involved with watching as the Doctor worked.

            “What did Bones find?” James asked as he watched as well.

           “Strange abnormal internal bleeding. He found several lesions in deep tissues of her abdomen, small enough to go undetected yet vital enough to slowly kill her.” He said, “In addition the doctor detected a substance that should not be in her body.”

             Kirk looked at Spock, “What sort of substance?” He asked.

             Spock was quiet for a moment before he answered. “A still very experimental chemical used for suppression of certain mental capacities.”                      

            “She was taking something while she was pregnant?” Kirk said wide eyed.          

            “I have already had the child examined. There are no substances in her blood or her body. So it would be reasonable to assume that she did not.” Spock answered.                      

             “Why would she do this?” The Captain asked.

              “What we have called gifts and talent is something that she has hidden within herself from the time when she herself was a child. For some reason she has come to fear those gifts being discovered. Desperation and lack of guidance caused her to turn to this.” Spock answered.

               Kirk was silent wondering if he should remain so but he had to say it, “Spock . . . this sounds like it . . . well it seems like a trend, doesn’t it?”

              “I assume that you are speaking about before when she was injecting herself with a substance to keep her from being impregnated. I do not think that is the case.” He answered.

              “Why not?” Kirk asked.

              “I believe that she is concerned that her gifts were inherited by Sarah. There would be no reason to evaluate our daughter if her mother continues to show no signs of having the ability her own mother possessed.” Spock said.

             “Wait . . . you know who her mother was? How is that even possible, when she was sent to a colony as an unknown?”

              Spock sighed slightly not really wishing to go into her past. She did not have details about her past beyond her mother’s name and station in life and that her father was human. He had strived to keep the thoughts out of his mind so that Yanira would not discover them when their minds entwined. “Her mother was a priestess. She possessed clairvoyance abilities. Much like the one that Yanira had displayed aboard the ship during the incident with several crewmembers in the recreational hall. Her mother’s distaste for Yanira’s human half . . . caused her to deny her as her daughter. It was her mother who sent Yanira to the colony as an unknown. Without her mother’s name, titles, or property she was declared an orphan like any other.”

               “I had no idea.” Kirk said looking back towards Bones as he worked.

               “Neither does she, Captain. I would very much prefer it to remain that way. She has been through enough without knowing who and what her parents were.” Spock said making his wishes clear. “No doubt she will monitor Sarah herself. To see if she has inherited what she considers to be her curse.”

                “But I don’t understand why she would hide this. If she just told someone about what she could do, she would probably be made a priestess herself, right?” He said, “So why hide it? It was her ticket out of the Colony and into a better life.”

                “Yanira did not see it that way.” Spock said, “She was monitored when she first arrived at the Colony becoming fully aware of what a priestess’s life would be, and what it would consist of. That coupled with the fact she knew enough about her mother to know she was somewhat of an embarrassment to her it was no wonder why she did not want to follow in Headra’s footsteps.”

            “Spock, we need you now.” Bones said as he stepped into the door of the office. “Nurse Chapel will assist you in preparing for the transfusion.” He said before quickly returning to the table. Spock immediately went into the next room where nurse Chapel was waiting.

 

Recovery Room Attentions

            Spock sat by Yanira’s bed watching her face as her eyes slowly started to flutter open. Spock reached over and dimmed the light in the room so that it wouldn’t hurt her eyes.

           Yanira’s eyes slowly focused onto his, the look in his eyes said volumes. Spock didn’t have to say anything.“You know.” She said after a moment.

            “Yes.” Spock answered. “The toxicology report was very clear and accurate with its findings.”

            “I swear to you that I did not, and would never endanger Sarah. I would not take that chance, no matter what the price.” She said starring into his eyes. Yanira wanted him to know that more than anything else.

            “Yes.” He said letting her know that it was not a fact he had even questioned. “However, you continue to do extensive harm to yourself which is cause enough for concern..” Yanira turned her eyes away unable to look at him. The same depression he saw in her on the planet was unchanged. “Yanira.” He began, “I gave you my blood willingly without hesitation when Doctor McCoy said you needed it to live. Do you not understand . . . each time you do harm to yourself, it is the only time I am disappointed with you.”

            Those words were as harsh as if he had slapped her face, even though it was not his intention. “Spock, have you no concept of what would happen should someone find out that I am  . . .” She began, but Spock didn’t let her finish.

            “No one will know, Yanira.” He said in a stern tone finding her fears irrational and at this point quite illogical. She had hidden her clairvoyance so long that there was no reason for anyone to even consider testing Sara. They had stopped testing Yanira before she was 6 satisfied that she had not been born with her mother’s gift. Soon after they simply forgot whose daughter she was all together.

            “Only as long as I keep it within me, but if I ignore it for too long it becomes stronger and finds a way out in other ways, open ways.” She warned him.

              Spock hadn’t considered this issue arising should their child be a daughter. Perhaps he should have foreseen it, but they had other more pressing matters on their minds.“You can keep your drawings, no one will know that they were drawn before the actual event depicted in them. But, you must keep them hidden.” Spock explained, “I know that it is the way you found to express what you see that no one else can see. I know you will be very careful in keeping them secret for our daughter’s anonymity.”

            Yanira gave a nod. “Spock,” she began, “What if she is like me?” She said softly, “She looks like you she has your ears, your hair, your complexion, the look of a true Vulcan.”  

            “And your eyes,” he interrupted. When the little girl was finally awake while he was admiring her, he saw the rare beautiful color that matched her mother’s perfectly. He’d always thought Yanira had devastatingly beautiful eyes; he was very pleased to see that their daughter inherited them.

            “But what if she is like me on the inside.” Yanira continued.

            Spock thought a moment before he spoke, “Then we will teach her to keep it hidden as you have taught yourself.” He paused another moment knowing that she was really not going to like what he said next. “However, she will one day come to an age where she will decide for herself whether or not she wants to remain anonymous or to take her place as a Priestess. It will be her choice, when she reaches an age of understanding.”                                  

           Yanira didn’t respond at first, nor did she turn her face back towards him. “I know.” She whispered in a soft ghost like voice. “I cannot make decisions for her future. The choices will be hers to make.” Apparently she had already thought about all this and was well aware of it. Perhaps it was the reason she had resorted to the drugs she had taken. To keep hidden so Sarah’s life wouldn’t be decided for her.

            “You must not worry, Yanira. Our daughter is healthy, safe and well cared for . . . I would like to see you happy.” He said arching a brow at what he said himself. Spock found it odd that he was actually wishing to see a particular emotion from her when he was usually uncomfortable and somewhat annoyed by her overflowing uncontrollable emotions. Yet, he didn’t want her to try anything else foolish that would hurt her physically.

            Now, she looked at him again, “I am happy.” She said with a soft smile. “Sarah is beautiful, and I could never have asked for a more wonderful family then yours.”

            “Ours.” Spock said reminding her that she was indeed part of it. “But you are not happy enough to stop endangering yourself.” Yanira looked down again. He sighed, and after a moment took her hand in his. “You are weighed down by your worry. Although there may have been need and reason for it before, there is not now. We can and will protect her and she will never know the life that you did. She has family and so do you there will be no chance of her ever falling into such a life.” He reassured her.

           Yanira looked at his hand and listened to his words, the sincerity in them. “Serek . . . says that he intends to negotiate with Star Fleet about our safety. Even though they will deny it to their last breath . . . he says that there are ways and channels that one may go through to insure that we will never be harmed again.” Spock nodded, having a feeling his father was going to step in when he heard about who was suspected to be behind everything. He continued to hold her hand, as his thumb started to smooth over her skin. It had been a long time since he had seen her and she was quite lovely to his eyes.

                        

Reunion

            When Yanira was cleared to leave the Sick Bay two days later, she accompanied Spock back to his quarters. He wished to know anything that he’d missed while he was gone of vital importance. Their communications were extremely limited when she went into hiding. Or perhaps he just wished to have some time alone with her and listen to her talk.

            She gave him a full report of what had gone on while he was away, down to the last detail. She did not, however, go into her labor or the birth of their daughter feeling that it was irrelevant not to mention it was not a subject for open discussion.

            “I am pleased that your solitude on Vulcan did not cause you any anxiety.” He responded when she came to the end of her story. “It seems that you have furthered your studies in the time you were isolated, and have grown extensively.” Yanira frowned when he said this and looked down at herself, covering her abdomen a moment before looking towards him again not certain what he was referring to. “I meant that you have grown intellectually, and if it at all possible more beautiful than before.”

            “Thank you.” She said bowing her head slightly.

            Spock arched a brow at Yanira response, finding it much more impersonal then he was hoping for. “I trust that you are feeling better physically.” He said.

            “Yes. There is no more pain, and I find myself almost as strong as I was before. I have recovered very quickly.” She responded.

            “Excellent.” Spock replied. There was a quiet moment, where it seemed neither one of them had anything to say. Yanira felt slightly uncomfortable in the silence and thought perhaps she was being dismissed.

            Yet when she made her obedience and turned to leave Spock reached out and grabbed her arms to halt her retreat. Without as much as a word he pulled her against him and consumed her lips. Needless to say Yanira was a bit surprised by his sudden onrush of passion but was far but opposed to it and returned his affections eagerly. Slowly he began to walk her backwards as they continued to kiss feverishly and Yanira rested her hands on his shoulders for balance so she wouldn’t trip or fall.

            Neither one was looking where they were going, as Yanira’s back hit the wall and Spock simply pressed his body against hers. His hands moved from her arms to cup her face in his hands and he continued to kiss her even deeper than before enjoying the taste of her lips and the warmth of her touch. Finally, their mouths parted for only a moment so they could catch their breath and they rested their foreheads together.

            “Stay with me tonight.” Spock said breathlessly.

            “As you wish,” She whispered against his lips. Spock lifted her into his embrace and she wrapped her arms around his neck, “Always as you wish.” She whispered. That was all that was said before their lips came together again in heated passion.

 

Morning

           Yanira yawned a little and rolled over forgetting where she was and fell off the bed with a hard thump. Spock woke at the sound sat up to see if she was alright. Yanira quickly sat up as well tucking her hair behind her ear embarrassed. Spock half smiled seeing that she was uninjured and held out his hand. She took it and he helped her back up pulling her onto the bed.

            “You are not used to sleeping on such a small bed. Yours is much bigger than mine.” He said laying her back down and wrapping his arms around her tightly.

            “That is because this bed is only meant for you. The one on Vulcan was meant for two.” She answered resting her head against his chest.

            “Yes, I know.” He replied. She didn’t say it in a malicious or even a sorrowful way, but he imagined it was somewhat lonely for her to sleep in a large two person bed alone in the darkness. “Now that Sarah is born you will be moving back into my parent’s house?” He asked.

            “Yes.” She answered, “Your mother is ecstatic with becoming a grandmother, and I do not think she could stand to be away from her Granddaughter for any length of time.” Yanira admitted.

            “And my father?” Spock asked. “What does Serek say of his new role.”

            “Nothing. Except that he seems very pleased with her. I imagine that he had been hoping he would become a grandfather as well.” She answered. After a moment, Yanira looked up at Spock, “And you?” She asked, “Are you happy?”

            He arched a brow at her question, “I am pleased.” He answered.

            She half smiled and shook her head, “No, not ‘are you pleased’ are you happy?”

            Spock was quiet for a moment. “Happiness, is a human emotion.” He said.

            “And yet there seems to be a lingering sense of it around all of us since Sarah was born.” She said resting her head against his shoulder again.

            “Yes.” He said simply, not really wanting to admit any more than that. She smiled and wrapped her arm around his as she settled in next to him.

 

Time to Go

            “I have to admit I’m not exactly sorry that we’re leaving. Vulcan isn’t really the vacation spot of the galaxy.” Bones said looking at the Captain as they waited for Spock to join them so they could beam back to the ship.

            “It has a certain beauty to it . . . and you have to admit it is very peaceful.” Kirk said.

            “Oh sure. But the entertainment factor is incredibly limited. No wonder Spock never took shore leave on his home planet, considering the lack of stimulation.” He grumbled.

            “The Vulcan idea of resting is to actually rest.” Kirk said, “So what need would they have for the sorts of entertainment we enjoy? It would be somewhat contradictory wouldn’t it?” Kirk responded.

            Bones half grinned, “Well then I think Spock would be the king of contradictory this trip. From what I’ve heard and observed, since I released Yanira from sick bay they are either in her room down here on the planet or in his quarters on the ship.”

            Kirk smiled slightly giving Bones a look, “Technically, each time he returns home they are newlyweds again. Give them a break, Bones.”

            “Who’s judging?” Bones replied, “Although I’m starting to think their other half is rabbit instead of human. If the next time Spock returns he’s gained another family member my theory will be proved correct.”

            “I assume that is how you will account for the pointed ears?” The Captain said with a smile.

            “Well it would certainly answer a few questions.” Both men chuckled a moment before looking around. “Hey, where is that pointy eared devil anyway? He should have been here 20 minutes ago. I’ve never known him to be late before. Ever.”

            Kirk realized that Bones was right and started to wonder himself.

 

Barricades

            “Mrs. Serek . . .” The Captain began, “We were supposed to return to the ship to leave orbit over two hours ago.”

            “Yes I know, Captain.” Amanda said not knowing what to do, “I don’t understand what could have brought this on. She’s been perfectly content and quite happy since the baby was born and Spock has returned. I simply don’t understand this.”

            “Is the baby in there with them?” Bones asked.

            “No, Sarah is in the nursery with her guardian.” Amanda answered. “I’ve sent for Serek, he should be here any moment. He’s the only one besides Spock that always seems to get through to her. She respects him and she’ll listen to him.”

            “That’s a bit odd, isn’t it?” Kirk said, “From what I’ve understood Spock and his father or not on the best of terms. Yet he will speak with Yanira?”

            “Serek has been Yanira‘s sponsor since she came to live with us and she has been most grateful to Serek for his guidance and help. She looks up to him with a certain kind of awe, and his has been very pleased with her progress and self-motivation to improve her knowledge and intellect as well as fit her station in life. They have been thick as thieves in arranging Sarah’s future. She will listen to Serek.” Amanda explained.

            The Captain and Doctor looked at each other and sighed never having expected this for a delay.

            A short while later Serek arrived from the council chambers. Having been apprised of the situation he had returned as quickly as he could since the council had been in session today. “Serek,” Amanda said greeting him. “Thank God you’re here.”

            “Is she still refusing entry?” Serek asked as they walked through the corridor towards her room.

            “Yes.” Amanda answered quickly. “She gives no reasons for her actions, and refuses to let him go. Now she’s stopped responding all together.”

            “And Spock?” Serek said wondering why he didn’t free himself.

            “He’s asleep. All I can figure out is that she’s keeping him that way. Perhaps she’s used a nerve pinch?” Amanda suggested.

            They arrived outside her rooms where Doctor McCoy and Captain Kirk were trying to talk her out of her unreasonable behavior. “Yanira. . . Spock is a commanding officer in Star Fleet and this is tantamount to kidnapping. He is my second in command, a very important position on the Enterprise.” There was a long pause and nothing but silence causing the two men to start to knock at the doors again.

            “Go back to your ship, Captain. Spock will not be accompanying you aboard today.” Yanira said without even the smallest note of regret or surrender in her voice. Kirk and Bones sighed about ready to give up.

            Serek watched for a moment until the two finished their attempt. Then he stepped forward towards the door. “Yanira. . . this is your father, Serek.” He announced. Both Bones and Kirk looked at Amanda, who held her hand up letting them know she’d explain later. “Your actions are most illogical. You know of Spock’s responsibilities and have not had issue with them. What has changed?”

            There was a long uncomfortable silence, it was obvious Serek’s presence was the first thing that had shaken her from her resolve. “I have no answer.” She replied.

            “You must.” Serek said, “If you do not have a logical reason for your wanting to keep Spock here then I must insist you return him to Star Fleet and his responsibilities he has been assigned.”

            Another long pause came before yet again she answered, “I cannot.” She replied.

            Amanda, Doctor McCoy and Captain Kirk all felt like the situation was hopeless. Kirk was beyond furious with this situation but he also knew what Yanira was capable of and was unwilling to risk pushing her.

             “If you cannot answer, nor let Spock leave then allow me entrance and to speak with you.” Serek said. Yet another long uncomfortable silence came before the door seemed to unlock from the inside and it opened just enough to allow Serek to enter. Amanda started to walk towards Serek to accompany him. However Serek held up his hand to stop her wanting her to wait with the Captain and the Doctor who were both clearly upset. Then, he entered into the room and the door closed behind locking again.

 

 

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