gilda_elise (![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png)
gilda_elise) wrote2010-06-08 04:21 pm
gilda_elise) wrote2010-06-08 04:21 pm
Entry tags:
A Common Odyssey (K/S) Pt 3 of 5
Title: A Common Odyssey
Fandom: Star Trek (TOS)
Pairing: Kirk/Spock
Notes: Kirk and Spock end up in a Romulan prison after the ship they are passengers on is taken by Orion slavers.
Originally published in First Time 57 by Merry Men Press (July 2003)
The next few days dragged by as both men waited for the dreaded announcement. Ranulf kept them as informed as he could, and acted as their link to the rest of the prison. A few words handily dropped had given the impression that Spock had taken him as his lover while Kirk was unavailable. The Romulan was now able to travel freely about. His reaction to being cast in the role of Spock's lover had pretty much sealed Kirk's initial impression. The young man had seemed more honored than disturbed at the charade.
Perhaps too honored. Kirk pondered as he watched the goings on in the prison yard from the window near his bed. He could see that Ranulf was developing a crush of sorts on Spock. It was never acted on, but his behavior toward Kirk, friendly and open at first, had subtly changed. He knew Ranulf's attachment to the Vulcan had taken precedence.
Spock stood next to him. He looked inquiringly at Kirk's slight frown. "Is there something amiss, Captain?"
Kirk grinned. Spock knew he liked it when he called him that, considering the circumstances. Maybe technically he was still Spock's captain, but he knew Spock's use of the title, their love affair notwithstanding, was more a sign of respect and continued loyalty to his commanding officer.
"No, just wondering about out friend."
"Ranulf? Is there a problem?"
"I don't think so. Is there?" Kirk studied his lover, his gaze penetrating.
Spock's face flushed slightly. "No, Jim. There is not. Ranulf understands how things are between you and me. But I regret the difficulty the situation creates for both of you."
"It's not a problem, Spock. Not for me. I trust you. I just wonder how he'll deal with it."
"As best as his abilities allow."
Spock's tone brooked no further discussion on the matter, and Kirk's attention returned to the view outside the window. He was puzzled by the commotion moving toward them. A group of prisoners milled around a central figure. He nudged Spock. "What's going on over there?"
The Vulcan leaned over to better observe the scene. "I do not know. But it appears as if someone is being brought to the infirmary."
They moved away from the window, Kirk to his bed and Spock to the supply cabinet he was supposed to be cataloguing.
The door was thrown open and two guards hurried in, a third held up between them. It was Hoben.
"Get the doctor!" The guard on the left snapped. He and his partner carried the unconscious Hoben to the nearest bed while Spock went for Lausus. The doctor was in the back storage room doing inventory.
"What has happened?" Lausus walked to the bed. Spock trailed behind but kept his distance.
"We don't know," the first guard said. "We found him behind the showers. It looks like someone tried to beat him to death."
Kirk craned his neck trying to see the injured guard, but his view was obstructed by the doctor and one of the guards. He slowly inched forward, his curiosity aroused. He stopped when he got to Spock's side. "What's he look like?"
"He has been severely beaten."
Kirk looked up in surprise. Spock sounded like he was giving a weather report. If the Vulcan hadn't been with him all morning, he could almost imagine that it was Spock who had done this to Hoben.
"Spock, I need your assistance." Lausus turned slightly, though his hands stayed busy as he worked on the guard. "Get me more bandages and tape. Also, there is a small bottle on the top shelf of the supply cabinet. It's marked 'restricted use.' Bring it here."
Spock gathered the supplies and returned to stand next to the doctor. The next few hours were spent going back and forth, getting whatever Lausus needed to tend to Hoben's wounds. Hoben remained unconscious throughout. Unlike Kirk, Hoben was liberally dosed with painkiller. When he was finally done, Lausus had him moved to the back room for prison personnel. It provided a privacy not afforded the prisoners.
It was a disturbed Vulcan who came to sit by Kirk's bed. Kirk had watched them work on Hoben for a while, but his own injuries still demanded he rest. He had returned to his own bed to wait for Spock.
"Is he going to make it?" Kirk frowned at Spock's continued silence. "Spock, what is it?"
Spock shook himself slightly, as if pulling himself back from somewhere. "He will live. But I am concerned at his close proximity to you."
"I don't think he's going to be able to do much for a while." Kirk's eyes narrowed. "But what I'm wondering is, who did it? Who was able to get him alone like that? It couldn't have been a prisoner. Hoben would never have gone for it."
"I do not know. But whoever it was shall have my eternal gratitude." The words were sincere, but laced with a tight bitterness.
Kirk glanced at him in surprise. "I've never heard you speak like that before."
The Vulcan shifted in his seat so that he faced the door to the private room. "He wants to kill you, Jim. And there is nothing I can do to insure your safety."
~~~~~
Spock continued to spend as much time as he could with Kirk, waiting until the last moment to make the journey to his cell. More than once Kirk had chastised him for hovering, but had finally given up when he realized that Spock had no intentions of stopping.
By the fifth day the doctor was threatening to ban Spock from the infirmary.
"You must stop this persistent worrying. It is not good for you or your companion." Lausus shook his head in exasperation and looked over at Kirk who was sitting on his bed flipping through a book. "He is already starting to chafe at the inactivity. Your solicitude is only making him worse."
"It cannot be helped. As long as Hoben occupies the other room, I will continue to safeguard my friend." Spock and the doctor were cleaning the medical tools Lausus had just used on an injured inmate.
"You're being obstinate."
Spock didn't answer. How could he make this man understand? Kirk's safety was paramount.
Lausus sighed and dried his hands on a towel. "I need to make sure our new patient's all right. When the cart with the dinner trays get here, you're going to have to take Hoben's to him and help him eat." He didn't look at Spock.
"I cannot."
"I can't do both, and you can't do what needs to be done for that man." He nodded toward the bed where his latest case fitfully lay. "You will do it, Spock. I've tried to help you as best I can, but I cannot let it interfere with my job as a doctor. I'm sorry."
Spock shook his head. "No, it is I who should apologize. You have done a great deal for both of us. It is inexcusable that I should repay you in this manner."
The doctor only nodded and headed for his patient.
Unfortunately, the meal cart was delivered while Lausus was still occupied, so it was Spock who now stood before the door leading into the private room, a tray cradled in one arm. He straightened and opened the door before he could find some reason to delay and walked to the bed.
Hoben sat propped against a stack of pillows. He quietly watched Spock as he pulled a cart over and set the tray down. Still bruised and swollen, Hoben's face was set in a petulant frown.
"I am to assist you with your meal." Spock's voice was without inflection.
The guard only nodded slightly, but kept his gaze fixed on Spock.
Hoben's right arm had been broken and his left hand was a mass of bruises, so the only recourse was to spoon-feed the man. Spock picked up the utensil and dipped it in the semisolid porridge that filled the large bowl. Carefully, he brought the spoon to Hoben's lips who surprised him by complacently allowing his help. The meal was completed in silence, and he had thought to get away without conversation when Hoben finally spoke.
"I hear your companion is still in here."
"Yes." Spock picked up the tray in preparation to leave.
"Next time, he won't get off so easy. Next time, I'll make sure no one can interfere."
"Why do you hate him so? He has done nothing to you." He tried to keep his voice even, all too aware of this man's ability to destroy his controls.
"He's human. That's reason enough. Just because you like what he does to you..." Hoben sneered.
"He had no part in the war that took the life of your father. For you to blame—"
"Don't you talk about that!" Hoben snarled, "He's dirt, like all Terrans. That's all there is to it!"
"Surely you realize that is not a valid reason to hate someone as you hate him. It is punishment enough that we are being kept here against our will. Can you not just leave us to that?"
"No." The guard pushed himself forward, using his less damaged arm to hold himself upright. "He's going to die. He's going to die a painful and bloody death, and there's nothing you can do to prevent it."
Spock stared at him, too stunned to reply. He stepped away. He would not turn his back while still so close to the man. He realized there was no rationalizing with Hoben. His hate had overpowered everything else long ago. Spock finally turned to leave and had almost made it to the door when Hoben called out to him.
"Enjoy him while you can, Vulcan. Maybe when I'm finished with him, I'll see to you...after the rest of the guards take their turn with you."
Spock only closed his eyes for a moment and then walked out. Did Hoben actually believe that he was afraid of that? If Kirk died, he really didn't care what happened to his own body. He would follow his lover soon enough.
He returned the tray to the cart and picked up his own. He joined Kirk at the small table set in the corner.
Kirk looked up from his meal and frowned. "Spock? What happened?"
He tensed while trying to control the flood of despair that threatened to drown him. "Nothing. There is no need for concern."
"The hell there isn't. You look like death warmed over. What the hell did that bastard say to you?"
Spock looked down, as if his plate held the greatest interest. "He has vowed to kill you."
"We already knew that."
"Perhaps I have only now totally accepted that. It is difficult to deal with the possibility that he will hurt you again."
"Oh, Spock." Kirk reached over and took Spock's hands in his. "Look at me."
Spock slowly brought his head up. He would not win against this man. He never had never been able to.
"He's in no shape to do anything to me. And by the time he is, we'll be long gone," Kirk quietly said.
"You do not know that."
Kirk lowered his head a moment and squeezed Spock's hands. "Don't borrow trouble, okay? He can't do anything to me tonight. We'll worry about tomorrow...later."
Spock only nodded, and with a smile Kirk let go and returned to his dinner. They tried to talk of other things, keeping the conversation light. But later, walking back to their cell, Spock tried to subdue the disquiet he still felt. Jim was right. Hoben could not hurt him, not right now. Not tonight. But what of tomorrow...and the next day? As long as both the guard and Kirk were in the same place, his captain was not safe.
He pulled his jacket closed. Winter was waning, but the evenings were still cold. If all went according to plan, it would be in the warmth of spring that they would escape. That, at least, was working in their favor. He quickened his steps as the sun began to set, taking the last of the day's warmth with it. He grimaced. Lights out was less than two hours away. He knew how he would have to spend the rest of the evening.
When they had thought to make the others believe he had taken Ranulf as a lover, it had not occurred to either himself or Kirk that they would be stepping into yet another quagmire. By having Ranulf come to his cell each night during the hours before lights-out to give the impression they were having sexual relations, they had inadvertently caused the Romulan to create hope where there was none.
Each evening Ranulf would act the lover in front of as many of the other inmates as he could. Most of the cell doors were left open as long as possible, and the Romulan never lost the opportunity to reinforce the fantasy. He touched when he should not, and spoke in intimate tones that conveyed desire.
Spock found the whole charade distasteful, but understood that it was something he would have to tolerate. He only wished Ranulf would realize that there could never be anything between them. Spock had come to dread his return to his cell. His disquiet only intensified when he entered and found Ranulf already stretched out on one of the bunks.
"Hoben still giving you trouble?" The young man sat up, pulling the covers up over his shoulders.
Spock decided that tonight there would be no show. He closed the door and sat at the table. "Yes, though Lausus insists that he will be unable to move about for several more days."
"That's good, at least." Ranulf smiled hesitantly. "Tal put up the new work assignments. Kirk is being assigned to the library."
Spock swallowed. The lifting of at least part of his fear left him almost lightheaded. "And the cell assignments?"
"Unchanged. It's over, Spock. At least for a while. By the time Hoben gets out of the infirmary, Kirk will have already been released. We might not even be here by then."
"That will be good." Spock rose and went to the other bunk to lie down. It was the one he and Kirk always slept on. He was extremely fatigued, yet more than the press of the mattress on his back allowed him to finally relax. If Kirk was being assigned to the library, it meant that Lausus could release him soon. The doctor had planned to keep him there longer only because there was no way Kirk's injuries would heal with the constant strain of physical work.
He turned on his side and closed his eyes. He really didn't want to talk. Ranulf had been inordinately curious about him, to the point that Spock was reluctant to encourage any familiarity. He wished their plans did not hinge on the young man's good will. He wished it was already time to attempt escape. He wished Kirk was here beside him.
It didn't take long for him to slip into sleep. Spock rarely dreamt. It was not in a Vulcan's nature. But sometimes his human half would make itself known in this way, and he would find himself in a world of his mind's making.
They were on the bridge of the Enterprise. Kirk sat in the center seat, but he was turned to Spock as if in conversation. He wore the smile that he had graced his first officer with from time to time. The smile that said 'you are special to me.'
Spock raised an eyebrow, his own sign of affection.
The human's smile turned into a grin. He rested his elbow on the consul and quirked his finger, motioning Spock over.
Spock stood up and moved from his work station to take his place at his captain's side. All around them the bridge crew went about their duties. In this place of dreams, it struck him not at all odd that Kirk would bring his hand up to lightly caress Spock's brow, to run his fingers through Spock's hair.
He let his head drop forward to allow easier access. It felt so good, his t'hy'la's touch bringing a pleasure only now realized. He lifted his hand to take that of his lover's, wanting the feel of coolness that was Kirk...and came away with a hand as warm as his own.
He bolted upright and pushed away the young Romulan kneeling at his bedside. "You dare touch me in this manner?" Spock seethed.
Ranulf fell back to land sprawled on the floor. He hurried to his feet. "I meant no harm. You were mumbling something. I thought you were upset."
Spock studied him for a moment, still enraged by the young man's audacity. "Please, go."
"I was only trying to calm you down. Why are you so mad?"
"Do not insult me, Ranulf. I am not that naive, nor do I believe you to be. That was not the touch of casual concern."
The Romulan stared at him, his hands clenched at his sides. "Was it that bad? Did I desecrate your shrine to the great Captain Kirk?" His voice was full of hurt and pain and buried memories.
"Do not speak of him that way to me, Ranulf. I will not allow it."
"Then explain it to me," Ranulf implored. He seemed angry and aroused at the same time. "What can he give you that I can't? You act like he's got some sort of hold on you."
"Emotionally put, but essentially correct. He truly does have a hold on me and what is between us can never be touched by another. It is ours, just as we now belong to it."
"I don't understand. You don't make any sense."
"Ranulf..." How did he explain something that the Romulan had never known? Would never know? "Sit down. Please."
Ranulf grimaced, but than walked over and took his place on the other bunk.
Spock pressed his lips together, trying to compose a response that would make it clear to the young man how truly one he and Jim were without revealing all that oneness implied. Some things could not be spoken of, even to soothe the feelings of an aggrieved ally. "When your people left Vulcan," he began hesitantly, "more than just the ways of logic were left behind. I do not know why this is so. Perhaps in order to survive without the mental disciplines of logic, your telepathic powers had to be sacrificed. You would have destroyed yourselves as we almost did. Whatever the cause, your people no longer bond themselves mentally to another as we do...as I have to my captain."
The Romulan gave him a slightly disbelieving look. "Are you telling me you're in mental contact with Kirk? All the time?"
"In a sense, yes. Because our link is of short duration, it has not always allowed me to know when he is in distress. But as it strengthens, we will become more and more attuned to each other. More aware of what is happening to each other."
Ranulf blushed. "So he could tell that I was..."
"I do not know. It is a possibility only at this point. Eventually, yes. He will know all that goes on with me. As I will with him." Spock tried to carefully word his next statement. "Intimate contact either of us might have with another would not only be instantly known, but could cause certain mental unbalances."
"Mental unbalances?"
He could feel his face warm. "Vulcans have been known to kill when there has been a disruption in their bond to another. I do not know how a human would react, however."
"But I shouldn't try and find out, is that what you're saying?" Ranulf shook his head and ruefully laughed. "I sure know how to pick them. Look, I'm sorry for what I did. I figured you knew I was attracted to you. Pretending to be lovers...I guess I decided that you wouldn't be adverse to making it true."
"I regret that our situation has caused you emotional distress. But it cannot be, Ranulf. I am tied to Jim in every way that is possible. And I would not have it otherwise. As it is, I do not understand why you were not discouraged by my link to Jim. It has kept the other inmates from attempting to coerce a response from him."
"I don't know. Maybe I'm just more stubborn than most. I don't give up easily." Ranulf got up. He folded the blanket and tossed it to the foot of the bunk. "I better be getting back to my own cell. It's almost lights-out. I'll see you in the morning."
The lights dimmed ten minutes after the Romulan left. Spock undressed and buried himself in his covers. His ache for his lover suddenly felt like it was a part of his body. He forced himself to relax, to forget the emptiness of his bed and his arms. He followed the path of the link in his mind to its other end. Here at least, he was not alone. He nestled down in the comfort of his t'hy'la's mind and finally slept.
~~~~~
McCoy took his time getting to his cabin. He seemed to spend an awfully lot of time by himself these days, and the loneliness of his small domain just seemed to get worse all the time.
Scotty had his hands full running the ship. Starfleet hadn't seen the point in reassigning the Enterprise a new captain with less than six months of their mission left. Between his bridge duties and engineering, the Scot was being run ragged. Mr. Spock's duties had been divvied out to half a dozen different officers, as the Vulcan's use to the ship was brought painfully home. Divided six ways, it still wasn't being done with the precision and expertise Spock had brought to anything he touched.
McCoy passed the two locked doors where his friends' belongings still occupied the otherwise empty cabins. Empty of life, of hope. McCoy knew he needed to get in there and box everything up. Jim's stuff would be sent to his mother, and Spock's would go to Sarek and Amanda.
The doctor didn't like to think about the effect of Spock's loss on the Vulcan ambassador and his wife. Perhaps because Spock was their only child, and they had only got him back a couple of years before, hadn't been given the time to make up for all the lost years due to the estrangement between parents and child, their response had been so extreme. Whatever the reason, their reaction to their son's death had shocked McCoy.
The Enterprise had been unable to divert to Vulcan for the ceremony for Spock's death, but the doctor had managed to hitch a ride on a passing cruiser. He saw first hand what the loss of Spock had done to them. Sarek had turned inward, barricading himself further behind his shield of logic. You could almost see the ice form as the Vulcan dealt with Spock's death by denying that he felt anything at all. Amanda had gone to the opposite extreme. Years of Vulcan discipline had shattered and exposed the decimated human beneath. If he was any judge of the situation, McCoy wouldn't be at all surprised to hear that she had followed her son within the next few years. That kind of grief had its own frightening power.
Not really knowing why, he found himself using his medical override and entering Kirk's cabin. It even smelled different. The vent was still open, so the room was getting fresh air just like the rest of the ship. Yet an odor lingered. Like the smell of a tomb. McCoy shook himself, surprised at the morbid turn his mind had taken. The smell was probably something gone bad in one of the rooms. The doors into the bathroom that connected this room to Spock's were wide open. It could be coming from any of the three.
He made his way through the bathroom into the science officer's quarters. There it was. The incense Spock used while meditating had decomposed, and the oils in it had gone rancid. McCoy gingerly emptied the small basin in the incense burner's belly. "Ugly thing. Never could understand how Spock could sleep with this staring down at him," he muttered. He carried the remains into the bathroom and flushed them away.
Now what? McCoy leaned against the sink and looked at himself in the mirror. He had aged, no doubt about it. He was getting old, and tired of losing people he cared about. He thought about his friends, something he tried not to do too often. Even after almost three months the pain could still take his breath away. What would they have wanted? He looked first to one side and then the other, back and forth, gazing at all that was left to mark their passing.
Finally he knew. He didn't know how Kirk's mother would take it. Somehow, he thought she would approve. Sarek and Amanda would probably never open the boxes, so it wouldn't matter. But it mattered to him. He moved into Kirk's cabin and grabbed one of the boxes that had cluttered the room since the captain's death. Each would hold a bit of both of them. When Winona Kirk opened up the boxes that held the last of her son's possessions, she would find a part of both her son and the being who had been his other half.
For the first time since hearing the tragic news, McCoy felt like smiling.
~~~~~
"God, it's good to be home!" Kirk cast a glance at Spock who had hovered about him all the way from the infirmary. Lausus had finally released him right before dinner and had then joined them for a celebratory meal. It had helped to relieve the tension in both men.
"This is not home," Spock intoned.
Kirk laughed. "You know what I mean." He walked to the shelves and picked up the book he had been struggling with before being injured. "I never thought I'd be happy to see this again." He skimmed through the pages of the dog-eared book.
Spock put his head down, the amusement on his face almost hidden. "You are doing quite well in your efforts to learn the Romulan language. I am sure any child would be quite envious of your expertise."
"Very funny. I'll have you know that Lausus found my Romulan to be quite good."
"Yes. He mentioned that he would always be able to tell it was you from your rather unique use of grammar."
"I keep slipping into Standard." Kirk replaced the book. It was late, and lights-out was almost upon them. Besides, he had no intention of reading tonight. He walked over to close the door, then moved to the table and sat down on one of the chairs. He motioned Spock to the one across from him.
Spock raised his eyebrow in question, and took the seat.
"I want to know what's going on. How are the plans are coming along?"
"I have secured the necessary ingredients for the drug to be used against the guard. Both Ranulf and I have set aside a small amount of nonperishable food supplies. We still need more, but our escape date is still a month away."
"Has Ranulf told you anything more?" Kirk kept the small amount of anger he still held against the Romulan out of his voice. He had felt something that night over two weeks before. It didn't take a genius to figure out what had happened. Spock had been even worse the next day, almost blatant in his regard for him. Especially when Ranulf was around. He knew he shouldn't feel this way. After all, it wasn't as if the young man had ever stood a chance. But he found that logic, his lover's oh-so-helpful tool, was useless when it came to their feelings for one another. Kirk had been taken aback by the fierce wave of jealousy he had experienced when he thought of anyone else touching Spock.
"As to the location of the tunnel? No, he has not. But I have surmised that it is located in that part of the complex to which we normally are not allowed access. When I have questioned him as to the tools we might need to hasten our escape, he digresses."
"So you figure he hasn't even seen it for himself? That's just great. We could find ourselves looking for a way out that doesn't exist."
Spock tilted his head in thought. "I think not. I do not believe he is going on hearsay alone. He speaks too surely when mentioning it. I must believe that it exists, and that he knows exactly where it is."
Kirk grimaced. "I hope so."
"Jim," Spock spoke hesitantly. "There is something else I wish to discuss with you."
"What is it?"
"I wish to strengthen the link between us." The Vulcan stared at him. His gaze was filled with determination.
"I thought it would strengthen on its own. That eventually it would turn into a total bond."
"That is correct. And indeed, it has already begun to do so. But on its own it could take several months, perhaps a year. I merely wish to...facilitate its growth."
He frowned. Spock didn't do anything like this without a strong motive. And suddenly he knew exactly what it was. "No, Spock."
The Vulcan glared at him and pushed himself away from the table. He stood with his back turned to Kirk, and stared up through the high window. "Why would you refuse me this?"
"Because I know why you want it. I won't be the cause of your death. If something happens to me...I want you out of here."
Spock swirled around, his anger even more apparent. "And what of what I desire? Is that of no consequence? Must it always be what you want?"
"I'm not going to argue about this, Spock. You can throw a fit if you want, but it's not going to change my mind. When we're out of here, when we're safe, if you still want me I'll be the first to insist on bonding. But not before."
"You promise this?"
Kirk almost smiled. Sometimes his lover was so transparent. His promise was what Spock had probably been after in the first place. "Yes, I promise. Now take me to bed. It's been damn near a month since we've made love and I'm tired of waiting."
The Vulcan walked over, the anger now totally erased from his countenance. He eased Kirk up from the chair and wrapped his arms around him. His mouth descended and Kirk eagerly met it. Their hunger for each other brought them both to a raging hardness.
Because of their situation, their lovemaking had by necessity been sporadic. And there were things they had never done to one another. Kirk planned on rectifying that right now. He pulled his mouth away from the intoxicating taste of his lover's. "Get your clothes off."
Spock gave him a knowing smile. He removed his garments and slipped into bed.
Kirk had watched his lover undress in eager anticipation. Now he hastily tore at his own and clambered in next to the Vulcan, his hands anxious to lay claim to what was his.
"All I thought about was this. Feeling you, your body against mine." Kirk pulled himself on top of Spock and sat up to look down on his lover. He took the Vulcan's cock in his hand and began to expertly manipulate it until Spock was writhing under him. He pistoned his hips and pushed himself against Kirk.
"Do you like that? Do you like it when I touch you this way?" He reached out and pinched one of Spock's nipples, pulling a loud moan from the Vulcan. "You do, don't you? You love the way I touch you, the way I make you come."
"Yes," Spock hissed. He reached out to tug Kirk's upper body down against him without breaking the gentle rocking that nudged their cocks together.
Kirk continued sliding his hand up and down the straining shaft. "Say it. Say what it is you want me to do to you."
The Vulcan's head was rolling slowly back and forth on the pillow and his arms had reached back to grab hold of the end of the bunk. "I want you to take me, my body. I want you to put your organ inside of me."
"No, say it. Say what you want." Kirk let go of the Vulcan's cock and reached over to grab his pants from the floor. He manipulated the small tube from one of its pockets and repositioned himself between Spock's legs. He opened the top with his teeth, spitting out the cap and squeezing the contents into one hand. Kirk threw the tube aside and spread the thick ointment over both. He coated his cock with one hand while returning to the fondling of the Vulcan's shaft with the other. "Come on, Spock, say it!"
Confusion lit the Vulcan's face for a moment and he tilted his head in question. Kirk saw when understanding dawned and Spock spread his legs and pulled them up against his body. "Make love to me. I wish you to make love to me. Now."
Kirk pulled slightly back but continued to stroke Spock's hard shaft. He leaned over and balanced himself with his other hand, his cock nestling between the Vulcan's buttocks. "Put it in."
Spock reached down and ran Kirk's penis along his crack until the tip lay against his anus. He put both his hands on Kirk's ass and slowly pushed him in.
"Oh, god, yes." Kirk had never felt anything like it. It was so hot, so tight. No woman had ever felt this way. He tried to go slow, but Spock's hands were insistent, moving him forward until he felt his balls rest against his lover. He pulled out and then shoved himself all the way back in, building up a rhythm as he fucked Spock's sweet, hot ass.
Spock moaned beneath him, and raised his hips to meet each plunge of the cock into his body. His fingers were digging into Kirk's buttocks, pulling him hard against him, forcing him to slam into the Vulcan.
Kirk gasped for air, and his hair plastered against his brow as sweat trickled down. His body was caught in the riot of sensation caused by the hot constriction around his cock, and Spock's organ, heavy and full in his hand. He felt the end near and gathered speed. His hips snapped forward and back, fucking the Vulcan harder, deeper, while he squeezed the cock slipping in and out of his fist.
"Jim, oh, Jim!" Spock threw his head back. His cock pulsed and Kirk felt a stream of hot liquid coat his fingers. The Vulcan shook as his organ continued to spew forth his seed, until finally he shuddered and closed his eyes.
At that moment Kirk knew that he would never be able to love another. That no matter what happened, he was Spock's, and always would be. He cried out, buried himself deep into the beloved body and let his orgasm take him. His semen filled the tight orifice as his balls emptied and his cock slowly softened.
Kirk slumped over Spock's body and felt the Vulcan's arms come up and wrap around him. He pulled himself out of his lover, and a stream of semen ran out to mix with Spock's on the sheets and on their bodies. He lay down on his lover while their breathing slowly calmed. For some reason he felt close to crying.
"It is the intensity of our joining that is making you feel this way," Spock whispered.
Kirk knew that Spock had picked that up through their link, and he knew that Spock could feel everything he was feeling. Yet still, he wanted to say it out loud. "I love you so much, Spock."
"As I love you,."
Kirk smiled into the fine hair of Spock's chest. He was so happy. At this moment he could believe they would escape and find their way back home. At this moment, anything was possible as long as they were together.
~~~~~
"Where is the human?" Ranulf asked. He had sneaked up on Manius, startling the old man.
Manius only motioned his hand toward the area of the room hidden by rows of tall shelves lined with the books that made up the prison's library.
Ranulf walked to the shelf area, until the human's whistling drew him to the corner of the room. Kirk stood next to a cart loaded down with books and methodically inserted them into their proper places.
Ranulf still felt that Spock would eventually come to him. He didn't totally accept this "link" thing, but he wasn't about to let the Vulcan know that. Instead he had backed off, allowing Spock to think that Ranulf had given up. He hadn't. Even after overhearing the 'welcome' Spock had given the human his first night back in their cell.
But he had continued to be their eyes and ears within the general population, so it was to him that Spock had to come for information. And he was the one who decided what needed to be collected and how their escape would progress. Their plans had been moving forward when Kirk had used his forceful personality to take charge. Ranulf wasn't exactly sure how it had happened, but a few days after Kirk's release from the infirmary, their roles had mysteriously reversed.
So here he was, reporting to his rival any information he might run across that might help them. And Kirk had written a new list of supplies he deemed necessary. He walked up to the human, who turned at his approach.
Kirk stopped whistling and nodded. "What is it?"
Ranulf bit back a smile. He was well aware that Kirk knew of his desire for the Vulcan and that he still wanted Spock for his own. But the human was a realist, and, Ranulf thought derogatorily, vain enough to think that he'd have no real competition for Spock's affection. "I just overheard Tal talking to one of the other guards. They expect Hoben to be released in a few more days."
"That's just great," Kirk grated. "That leaves us another ten to get through. How sure was he about that?"
"I don't know. I didn't think to ask him," Ranulf sarcastically answered.
Kirk just looked at him a moment. Ranulf felt like something being examined under a microscope. The human finally turned away with a shrug and returned to his work. "Have you told Spock about this?"
"No, not yet. He's with Lausus and a sick inmate. I couldn't get him alone. You can tell him tonight in bed."
Kirk's head jerked up, and he graced Ranulf with a penetrating stare. "I'm only going to tell you this once, Ranulf. I really don't care what you think of me. But I care a great deal how you talk about Spock. Don't ever let me hear you bring up mine and Spock's personal life again. Because plans or no plans, I'll make sure it's the last time you do. Do I make myself clear?"
It occurred to him at that moment that this man was probably more dangerous than the Vulcan. He smiled, and pretended a joviality he didn't feel. "Sure. I was only kidding anyway. You don't have to take it so personally."
"I take it personally because it is," Kirk answered then turned back to the shelves. "You better go before someone wonders what you're doing in here."
Ranulf walked out without another word. It really didn't matter what the human thought. He had time to win the Vulcan to his side once they were free. Then he would be the one to draw the sounds of completion from him that Ranulf had wept at hearing.
~~~~~
Kirk finished re-shelving the books and pushed the cart back to the front of the room. Manius was still at the small desk that served as a check-out station. He was going over the names, making sure all was as it should be. He noticed his own name at the top of the first page.
"I'll get the book back in a few days, Manius," Kirk said with a hint of embarrassment.
"There is no rush, my young friend. 'A History of Romulan Colonial Expansion' is not a book that is much asked for," the older man stated.
Kirk grinned and took the seat across from the Romulan. "I've always been interested in history. And it's been very interesting to learn of the parallels between our people."
"Parallels? Between Romulans and Terrans?" Manius looked over in surprise.
"Sure. Both seem to have this drive to expand, face the unknown. Of course, our tactics are a bit different when it comes to colonization. We prefer to allow new worlds the opportunity to say no."
"Perhaps. I have never concerned myself with things I have no power to change, so I would not know. And it is difficult to form an opinion on things seen from behind a high wall."
Manius returned to his work, and Kirk let his gaze remain on the older man. Manius had never said much about himself. All of Kirk's knowledge of the Romulan came from their fellow inmates. It was rumored that he had been someone of considerable power at one time. It was hard to imagine that this tired and defeated old man had ever been a force to be reckoned with.
"Did your friend find what he was looking for?" Manius asked without looking up.
"I guess you could say that." Kirk frowned. This was why he hadn't wanted Ranulf coming here. He stuck out like a sore thumb. He had never been the type to use the facility before.
"He is a strange, that one."
"Why do you say that?"
Manius put down his pen and looked directly at Kirk. He appeared to weigh his words before speaking. "He opens himself to very few, seeming to prefer solitude. I was surprised to see him take to you and your companion as he has."
Not so much me. Kirk hesitated a moment. "You mentioned that Ranulf's partner had died here."
"That is correct."
"You weren't talking about them just being partners as pilots, were you?"
The Romulan shook his head. "No, he and Senius were lovers. Actually, the Vulcan bears a startling resemblance to Senius. Senius had the same aloofness, the same aura of detachment. Physically they are of a kind also."
"Really?" Kirk wondered anew at the situation he and Spock found themselves in with the young man. He didn't know if this made it better or worse. He could feel sorry for the Romulan, losing the person he loved the way he had. But he was beginning to resent Ranulf's blatant attempts to garner Spock's attention.
"Is Ranulf causing difficulties for you?"
"N..no, not exactly." Kirk smiled at the old man. "Nothing I can't handle." He glanced at the chronometer and rose. "Time's up. I'll see you in the morning, Manius."
"Have a good night, James."
The old man had gone back to his list by the time Kirk grabbed his jacket and made his way out of the room. The cold air that hit when he opened the door made him hunch over and shiver. He buried his hands in his pockets and headed for the commissary. He turned the corner and saw Spock and Ranulf standing in front of the double doors that led into the building. They hadn't seen him, so he stopped and took the opportunity to study the two men.
Spock was stonily listening to whatever Ranulf was going on about, but even from where he stood Kirk could tell that the Vulcan was upset. When Spock answered back, his lips were set in a stern line. It didn't seem to please Ranulf, because the young Romulan shook his head violently and grabbed Spock's hand.
Kirk had never seen Spock react so violently to the touch of another. He pulled his hand away as if burned. He looked like he was about to strike Ranulf when he finally saw past the young man to Kirk, still standing thirty feet away.
Kirk casually walked over and stood between the two men. His voice was calm, so that no one seeing him could know the anger that lay just below the surface. "What's going on?"
Spock lowered his head. "Ranulf has notified me of Hoben's eminent release."
"And?" Kirk kept his gaze on his lover.
The Vulcan brought his head up to look directly at the Romulan, his brown eyes filled with a barely leashed rage. "He wishes to devise alternate plans in the event of your inability to accompany us."
Kirk sighed and shook his head. Would it never end? "For one thing, I can't believe you two would argue about this out here." He nodded to encompass their surrounding, his voice an angry whisper. "For another," he turned to Spock then and lay his hand on the Vulcan's shoulder, "we've already talked about this. You know what I want."
Spock looked away, but did not answer.
Ranulf spoke up. "I was just trying to make him see th—"
"Shut up." Kirk turned to the Romulan. "Just shut up and go to dinner."
The young man stood and glared at Kirk for a moment before finally storming off into the building.
Kirk turned back to his lover, his voice now gentle. "Are you all right?"
Spock bit his lower lip, but nodded his head yes.
"Feel like eating something?"
Spock looked up and after a few seconds nodded again. Kirk gave him an encouraging smile, and the two men went in to take their place in line. But later in bed, the Vulcan sleeping next to him, Kirk couldn't help but wonder if their problems would only get worse once free of the prison. Right now, Ranulf was their ace in the hole. Once out, he'd hold all the cards.
~~~~~
Spock watched from a distance as Lausus helped Hoben into his clothes. The guard was being released. Their reprieve was over.
Hoben looked up and gave Spock an obscene grin. "I thought you'd be glad to see the end of me, Spock. But you look like you're actually going to miss me."
"Leave him alone, Hoben." Lausus' words were spoken softly, but edged with steel.
"He's a prisoner. I can do or say whatever I want to him," Hoben groused. The guard winced when the doctor pulled his jacket on a little too fast.
"Just remember that your body is not fully recovered." Lausus picked up the discarded sleep ware and handed it to Spock. "Here, take these. Strip the bed and then get back to rolling more bandages."
Spock was grateful for the doctor's intervention as Lausus led the guard out of the private room and to the main area. When the door closed, Spock turned to his task. He took longer than was perhaps necessary, but he did not wish to have to deal with Hoben right now.
It was getting so that the knot of anxiety he had fought uselessly to deny was building to a heavy weight in his chest. Eight days. Eight days to worry and wonder if Hoben would carry out his threats against Kirk.
He took his time, but eventually he was forced to gather the linen and return to the front room. The doctor was nowhere to be seen, but as he made his way over to the large laundry bin to deposit the bundle of sheets, he noticed that Hoben had been joined by Tal. The younger guard was handing over a set of keys.
"Where's the rest of my stuff?" Hoben belligerently asked.
"If you're talking about your whip and baton, they're in your locker. "You're not on duty until tomorrow. The only reason I brought your keys was so you could get through the gate," Tal answered.
Hoben jangled the keys about, and then clipped them to his belt. He started towards the exit, but his progress was slowed by a noticeable limp. One kneecap had been shattered during the assault and would always give him trouble. "You coming?" he asked Tal as he opened the door.
Tal glanced over at Spock, his expression unreadable. "I need to talk to Lausus for a moment. I'll see you later."
Hoben shrugged. "Suit yourself."
The door closed, but Tal only stood there, as if waiting for a sign from Spock.
"Do you wish me to call the doctor?" Spock finally asked.
Tal shook his head and walked over to stand next to Spock. "It's you I want to talk to."
Spock's eyes narrowed. "What is it you wish to speak of?"
"Something's going on, I'm not sure what. But it has to do with your friend, the human."
"What of him?"
Tal sat back on the desk behind him, crossing his arms as he studied Spock. "Hoben was supposed to go with Traccus to the Imperial ceremonies."
Spock blinked at the non sequitur. "What has that to do with my captain?"
"Nothing on the face of it. But when they told me I was to go in his place, I started thinking. It's a great honor to be included in the ceremonies. For Hoben to pass it up, well, I just couldn't understand why. Until it occurred to me, there's only going to be a handful of guards here. If Hoben wanted to try anything, it'd be a perfect time for it."
"You feel he will use the opportunity to do away with Captain Kirk." It made sense. There would be no one around to stop him.
"Exactly. All he'd have to say was that Kirk tried to escape. No one would question him."
Spock sat heavily on the nearby bed. This could ruin everything. If Hoben removed Kirk from their cell, there was no way their plans could be instigated. They would be trapped. "Is there nothing you can do?" He was almost pleading.
Tal shrugged. "I don't know. I don't see how. That's why I'm telling you. It's up to you to keep your friend safe. Make sure he doesn't do anything stupid. You, either."
He almost betrayed himself when his head jerked up to stare at the guard. Did Tal know what they were planning? "Why would you care if we lived or died? We are nothing to you."
"I know our people are enemies, Spock. But that doesn't mean that we're all like Hoben. No one deserves what Hoben will do to your friend if he gets his hands on him. He'll kill him, but not before he has his fun with him."
Spock blanched and his mouth went dry. He bitterly thought of how close they were to freedom, yet how far they still were from safety. "I thank you for your concern," he said dully. "I will do all I can to keep him safe. I only hope it is enough."
The guard nodded. He looked like he was about to say more, but instead left Spock sitting there to contemplate his words.
The door closing pulled Spock from his thoughts, and he was slightly surprised to find himself alone. Tal had done all he dared, and for that Spock would be forever grateful. But now it was up to him and Kirk to decide how and to what degree this information would change their plans.
The rest of the day progressed slowly, though none watching him would have been able to tell that Spock's thoughts were not on his duties. The doctor returned, and together they prepared the medicines that were in need of resupply. Surgical equipment was cleaned and put away, notes transcribed for orderly filing. By the time he left to meet Kirk for dinner, Spock was sure of his course. Whether he could save his captain or not, whether their bid for freedom was successful or not, they would not be parted. Kirk's fate was his.
~~~~~
Spock was relieved when Kirk seemed disinclined to talk as they ate their meal. His captain had been waiting for him when Spock had finally finished with his duties, and together they had walked silently into the commissary.
All around them the other inmates kept up a continuous chatter. For many, this was the time when they relaxed and turned to the fantasy that their lives were their own. Spock had been fascinated from the first at the capacity for self-delusion.
He turned his gaze from his fellow prisoners to regard Kirk. If Kirk was aware of the misgivings that plagued him, he gave no sign. Yet Spock knew that to be the case. Kirk's ability to see beneath his Vulcan facade had grown in tandem with the link that stretched between them.
They finished their meal and headed outside. It was still light, but clouds were beginning to build to the north, skittering over the mountain tops that could be seen over the high walls.
"Let's take a walk." Kirk motioned to the path that ran along the perimeter of the prison yard.
They walked for several minutes. They passed a prisoner or two going about their own concerns. The wall helped to break the wind that was gaining strength, and they hugged its side as they made their way along.
Kirk tilted his head, giving Spock a questioning look. "You going to tell me what's wrong now?"
Spock looked around, making sure no one was near before answering. "Tal came to see me today. He seems to feel that Hoben is planning something for the day of the Romulan celebration."
"The day of our..." Kirk glanced around. "The day we plan on leaving?"
"Yes. Initially it was Hoben's place to accompany Traccus to the ceremonies. But he has relegated the task to Tal. Tal believes it is because with so many of the guards gone, it will give Hoben ample opportunity to carry out whatever scheme he may have concocted."
"With yours truly the guest of honor, I imagine." The human rubbed his neck, a frown creasing his brow as he thought over their latest problem. "You don't think they know about our plans, do you?"
"I think not. Tal did not act as a man trying to convey a warning of secrets discovered. Rather, it was more a show of concern for our safety."
"So unless Hoben did something before we could get away, everything could continue as planned," Kirk mused.
"Not necessarily. Even if our attempt was successful, his interference could shorten the length of time we would have to avoid recapture."
"Are you saying you think we should call it off?"
"No." Spock struggled to put into words the conflicting impulses that were tearing at him. "If we do not take this opportunity, there may be no other. If that is the case, Hoben will eventually find a way to harm you." He shook his head slightly. "I know that you would have me leave you, allow your death to gain my own freedom, but that is something I cannot do. You are my captain, and I will follow you, always. But you are also my t'hy'la. Perhaps you do not completely understand what that implies, the responsibility inherent to that role. Our paths are joined. There is no other way for me now."
"In other words, even if I order you to go without me, you won't?" Kirk's face was expressionless, but there was an underlying tension in his voice.
Spock swallowed hard. "I...I do not believe I would be capable of it, no."
"You would disobey a direct order?
"Please, Jim, do not make me make that decision." It was out there between them now. The one thing that could destroy all they were to each other. Spock studied his captain, trying to ascertain how Kirk was responding to his words. But the human had turned away and fallen silent.
~~~~~
Continue to part 4.
Fandom: Star Trek (TOS)
Pairing: Kirk/Spock
Notes: Kirk and Spock end up in a Romulan prison after the ship they are passengers on is taken by Orion slavers.
Originally published in First Time 57 by Merry Men Press (July 2003)
The next few days dragged by as both men waited for the dreaded announcement. Ranulf kept them as informed as he could, and acted as their link to the rest of the prison. A few words handily dropped had given the impression that Spock had taken him as his lover while Kirk was unavailable. The Romulan was now able to travel freely about. His reaction to being cast in the role of Spock's lover had pretty much sealed Kirk's initial impression. The young man had seemed more honored than disturbed at the charade.
Perhaps too honored. Kirk pondered as he watched the goings on in the prison yard from the window near his bed. He could see that Ranulf was developing a crush of sorts on Spock. It was never acted on, but his behavior toward Kirk, friendly and open at first, had subtly changed. He knew Ranulf's attachment to the Vulcan had taken precedence.
Spock stood next to him. He looked inquiringly at Kirk's slight frown. "Is there something amiss, Captain?"
Kirk grinned. Spock knew he liked it when he called him that, considering the circumstances. Maybe technically he was still Spock's captain, but he knew Spock's use of the title, their love affair notwithstanding, was more a sign of respect and continued loyalty to his commanding officer.
"No, just wondering about out friend."
"Ranulf? Is there a problem?"
"I don't think so. Is there?" Kirk studied his lover, his gaze penetrating.
Spock's face flushed slightly. "No, Jim. There is not. Ranulf understands how things are between you and me. But I regret the difficulty the situation creates for both of you."
"It's not a problem, Spock. Not for me. I trust you. I just wonder how he'll deal with it."
"As best as his abilities allow."
Spock's tone brooked no further discussion on the matter, and Kirk's attention returned to the view outside the window. He was puzzled by the commotion moving toward them. A group of prisoners milled around a central figure. He nudged Spock. "What's going on over there?"
The Vulcan leaned over to better observe the scene. "I do not know. But it appears as if someone is being brought to the infirmary."
They moved away from the window, Kirk to his bed and Spock to the supply cabinet he was supposed to be cataloguing.
The door was thrown open and two guards hurried in, a third held up between them. It was Hoben.
"Get the doctor!" The guard on the left snapped. He and his partner carried the unconscious Hoben to the nearest bed while Spock went for Lausus. The doctor was in the back storage room doing inventory.
"What has happened?" Lausus walked to the bed. Spock trailed behind but kept his distance.
"We don't know," the first guard said. "We found him behind the showers. It looks like someone tried to beat him to death."
Kirk craned his neck trying to see the injured guard, but his view was obstructed by the doctor and one of the guards. He slowly inched forward, his curiosity aroused. He stopped when he got to Spock's side. "What's he look like?"
"He has been severely beaten."
Kirk looked up in surprise. Spock sounded like he was giving a weather report. If the Vulcan hadn't been with him all morning, he could almost imagine that it was Spock who had done this to Hoben.
"Spock, I need your assistance." Lausus turned slightly, though his hands stayed busy as he worked on the guard. "Get me more bandages and tape. Also, there is a small bottle on the top shelf of the supply cabinet. It's marked 'restricted use.' Bring it here."
Spock gathered the supplies and returned to stand next to the doctor. The next few hours were spent going back and forth, getting whatever Lausus needed to tend to Hoben's wounds. Hoben remained unconscious throughout. Unlike Kirk, Hoben was liberally dosed with painkiller. When he was finally done, Lausus had him moved to the back room for prison personnel. It provided a privacy not afforded the prisoners.
It was a disturbed Vulcan who came to sit by Kirk's bed. Kirk had watched them work on Hoben for a while, but his own injuries still demanded he rest. He had returned to his own bed to wait for Spock.
"Is he going to make it?" Kirk frowned at Spock's continued silence. "Spock, what is it?"
Spock shook himself slightly, as if pulling himself back from somewhere. "He will live. But I am concerned at his close proximity to you."
"I don't think he's going to be able to do much for a while." Kirk's eyes narrowed. "But what I'm wondering is, who did it? Who was able to get him alone like that? It couldn't have been a prisoner. Hoben would never have gone for it."
"I do not know. But whoever it was shall have my eternal gratitude." The words were sincere, but laced with a tight bitterness.
Kirk glanced at him in surprise. "I've never heard you speak like that before."
The Vulcan shifted in his seat so that he faced the door to the private room. "He wants to kill you, Jim. And there is nothing I can do to insure your safety."
Spock continued to spend as much time as he could with Kirk, waiting until the last moment to make the journey to his cell. More than once Kirk had chastised him for hovering, but had finally given up when he realized that Spock had no intentions of stopping.
By the fifth day the doctor was threatening to ban Spock from the infirmary.
"You must stop this persistent worrying. It is not good for you or your companion." Lausus shook his head in exasperation and looked over at Kirk who was sitting on his bed flipping through a book. "He is already starting to chafe at the inactivity. Your solicitude is only making him worse."
"It cannot be helped. As long as Hoben occupies the other room, I will continue to safeguard my friend." Spock and the doctor were cleaning the medical tools Lausus had just used on an injured inmate.
"You're being obstinate."
Spock didn't answer. How could he make this man understand? Kirk's safety was paramount.
Lausus sighed and dried his hands on a towel. "I need to make sure our new patient's all right. When the cart with the dinner trays get here, you're going to have to take Hoben's to him and help him eat." He didn't look at Spock.
"I cannot."
"I can't do both, and you can't do what needs to be done for that man." He nodded toward the bed where his latest case fitfully lay. "You will do it, Spock. I've tried to help you as best I can, but I cannot let it interfere with my job as a doctor. I'm sorry."
Spock shook his head. "No, it is I who should apologize. You have done a great deal for both of us. It is inexcusable that I should repay you in this manner."
The doctor only nodded and headed for his patient.
Unfortunately, the meal cart was delivered while Lausus was still occupied, so it was Spock who now stood before the door leading into the private room, a tray cradled in one arm. He straightened and opened the door before he could find some reason to delay and walked to the bed.
Hoben sat propped against a stack of pillows. He quietly watched Spock as he pulled a cart over and set the tray down. Still bruised and swollen, Hoben's face was set in a petulant frown.
"I am to assist you with your meal." Spock's voice was without inflection.
The guard only nodded slightly, but kept his gaze fixed on Spock.
Hoben's right arm had been broken and his left hand was a mass of bruises, so the only recourse was to spoon-feed the man. Spock picked up the utensil and dipped it in the semisolid porridge that filled the large bowl. Carefully, he brought the spoon to Hoben's lips who surprised him by complacently allowing his help. The meal was completed in silence, and he had thought to get away without conversation when Hoben finally spoke.
"I hear your companion is still in here."
"Yes." Spock picked up the tray in preparation to leave.
"Next time, he won't get off so easy. Next time, I'll make sure no one can interfere."
"Why do you hate him so? He has done nothing to you." He tried to keep his voice even, all too aware of this man's ability to destroy his controls.
"He's human. That's reason enough. Just because you like what he does to you..." Hoben sneered.
"He had no part in the war that took the life of your father. For you to blame—"
"Don't you talk about that!" Hoben snarled, "He's dirt, like all Terrans. That's all there is to it!"
"Surely you realize that is not a valid reason to hate someone as you hate him. It is punishment enough that we are being kept here against our will. Can you not just leave us to that?"
"No." The guard pushed himself forward, using his less damaged arm to hold himself upright. "He's going to die. He's going to die a painful and bloody death, and there's nothing you can do to prevent it."
Spock stared at him, too stunned to reply. He stepped away. He would not turn his back while still so close to the man. He realized there was no rationalizing with Hoben. His hate had overpowered everything else long ago. Spock finally turned to leave and had almost made it to the door when Hoben called out to him.
"Enjoy him while you can, Vulcan. Maybe when I'm finished with him, I'll see to you...after the rest of the guards take their turn with you."
Spock only closed his eyes for a moment and then walked out. Did Hoben actually believe that he was afraid of that? If Kirk died, he really didn't care what happened to his own body. He would follow his lover soon enough.
He returned the tray to the cart and picked up his own. He joined Kirk at the small table set in the corner.
Kirk looked up from his meal and frowned. "Spock? What happened?"
He tensed while trying to control the flood of despair that threatened to drown him. "Nothing. There is no need for concern."
"The hell there isn't. You look like death warmed over. What the hell did that bastard say to you?"
Spock looked down, as if his plate held the greatest interest. "He has vowed to kill you."
"We already knew that."
"Perhaps I have only now totally accepted that. It is difficult to deal with the possibility that he will hurt you again."
"Oh, Spock." Kirk reached over and took Spock's hands in his. "Look at me."
Spock slowly brought his head up. He would not win against this man. He never had never been able to.
"He's in no shape to do anything to me. And by the time he is, we'll be long gone," Kirk quietly said.
"You do not know that."
Kirk lowered his head a moment and squeezed Spock's hands. "Don't borrow trouble, okay? He can't do anything to me tonight. We'll worry about tomorrow...later."
Spock only nodded, and with a smile Kirk let go and returned to his dinner. They tried to talk of other things, keeping the conversation light. But later, walking back to their cell, Spock tried to subdue the disquiet he still felt. Jim was right. Hoben could not hurt him, not right now. Not tonight. But what of tomorrow...and the next day? As long as both the guard and Kirk were in the same place, his captain was not safe.
He pulled his jacket closed. Winter was waning, but the evenings were still cold. If all went according to plan, it would be in the warmth of spring that they would escape. That, at least, was working in their favor. He quickened his steps as the sun began to set, taking the last of the day's warmth with it. He grimaced. Lights out was less than two hours away. He knew how he would have to spend the rest of the evening.
When they had thought to make the others believe he had taken Ranulf as a lover, it had not occurred to either himself or Kirk that they would be stepping into yet another quagmire. By having Ranulf come to his cell each night during the hours before lights-out to give the impression they were having sexual relations, they had inadvertently caused the Romulan to create hope where there was none.
Each evening Ranulf would act the lover in front of as many of the other inmates as he could. Most of the cell doors were left open as long as possible, and the Romulan never lost the opportunity to reinforce the fantasy. He touched when he should not, and spoke in intimate tones that conveyed desire.
Spock found the whole charade distasteful, but understood that it was something he would have to tolerate. He only wished Ranulf would realize that there could never be anything between them. Spock had come to dread his return to his cell. His disquiet only intensified when he entered and found Ranulf already stretched out on one of the bunks.
"Hoben still giving you trouble?" The young man sat up, pulling the covers up over his shoulders.
Spock decided that tonight there would be no show. He closed the door and sat at the table. "Yes, though Lausus insists that he will be unable to move about for several more days."
"That's good, at least." Ranulf smiled hesitantly. "Tal put up the new work assignments. Kirk is being assigned to the library."
Spock swallowed. The lifting of at least part of his fear left him almost lightheaded. "And the cell assignments?"
"Unchanged. It's over, Spock. At least for a while. By the time Hoben gets out of the infirmary, Kirk will have already been released. We might not even be here by then."
"That will be good." Spock rose and went to the other bunk to lie down. It was the one he and Kirk always slept on. He was extremely fatigued, yet more than the press of the mattress on his back allowed him to finally relax. If Kirk was being assigned to the library, it meant that Lausus could release him soon. The doctor had planned to keep him there longer only because there was no way Kirk's injuries would heal with the constant strain of physical work.
He turned on his side and closed his eyes. He really didn't want to talk. Ranulf had been inordinately curious about him, to the point that Spock was reluctant to encourage any familiarity. He wished their plans did not hinge on the young man's good will. He wished it was already time to attempt escape. He wished Kirk was here beside him.
It didn't take long for him to slip into sleep. Spock rarely dreamt. It was not in a Vulcan's nature. But sometimes his human half would make itself known in this way, and he would find himself in a world of his mind's making.
They were on the bridge of the Enterprise. Kirk sat in the center seat, but he was turned to Spock as if in conversation. He wore the smile that he had graced his first officer with from time to time. The smile that said 'you are special to me.'
Spock raised an eyebrow, his own sign of affection.
The human's smile turned into a grin. He rested his elbow on the consul and quirked his finger, motioning Spock over.
Spock stood up and moved from his work station to take his place at his captain's side. All around them the bridge crew went about their duties. In this place of dreams, it struck him not at all odd that Kirk would bring his hand up to lightly caress Spock's brow, to run his fingers through Spock's hair.
He let his head drop forward to allow easier access. It felt so good, his t'hy'la's touch bringing a pleasure only now realized. He lifted his hand to take that of his lover's, wanting the feel of coolness that was Kirk...and came away with a hand as warm as his own.
He bolted upright and pushed away the young Romulan kneeling at his bedside. "You dare touch me in this manner?" Spock seethed.
Ranulf fell back to land sprawled on the floor. He hurried to his feet. "I meant no harm. You were mumbling something. I thought you were upset."
Spock studied him for a moment, still enraged by the young man's audacity. "Please, go."
"I was only trying to calm you down. Why are you so mad?"
"Do not insult me, Ranulf. I am not that naive, nor do I believe you to be. That was not the touch of casual concern."
The Romulan stared at him, his hands clenched at his sides. "Was it that bad? Did I desecrate your shrine to the great Captain Kirk?" His voice was full of hurt and pain and buried memories.
"Do not speak of him that way to me, Ranulf. I will not allow it."
"Then explain it to me," Ranulf implored. He seemed angry and aroused at the same time. "What can he give you that I can't? You act like he's got some sort of hold on you."
"Emotionally put, but essentially correct. He truly does have a hold on me and what is between us can never be touched by another. It is ours, just as we now belong to it."
"I don't understand. You don't make any sense."
"Ranulf..." How did he explain something that the Romulan had never known? Would never know? "Sit down. Please."
Ranulf grimaced, but than walked over and took his place on the other bunk.
Spock pressed his lips together, trying to compose a response that would make it clear to the young man how truly one he and Jim were without revealing all that oneness implied. Some things could not be spoken of, even to soothe the feelings of an aggrieved ally. "When your people left Vulcan," he began hesitantly, "more than just the ways of logic were left behind. I do not know why this is so. Perhaps in order to survive without the mental disciplines of logic, your telepathic powers had to be sacrificed. You would have destroyed yourselves as we almost did. Whatever the cause, your people no longer bond themselves mentally to another as we do...as I have to my captain."
The Romulan gave him a slightly disbelieving look. "Are you telling me you're in mental contact with Kirk? All the time?"
"In a sense, yes. Because our link is of short duration, it has not always allowed me to know when he is in distress. But as it strengthens, we will become more and more attuned to each other. More aware of what is happening to each other."
Ranulf blushed. "So he could tell that I was..."
"I do not know. It is a possibility only at this point. Eventually, yes. He will know all that goes on with me. As I will with him." Spock tried to carefully word his next statement. "Intimate contact either of us might have with another would not only be instantly known, but could cause certain mental unbalances."
"Mental unbalances?"
He could feel his face warm. "Vulcans have been known to kill when there has been a disruption in their bond to another. I do not know how a human would react, however."
"But I shouldn't try and find out, is that what you're saying?" Ranulf shook his head and ruefully laughed. "I sure know how to pick them. Look, I'm sorry for what I did. I figured you knew I was attracted to you. Pretending to be lovers...I guess I decided that you wouldn't be adverse to making it true."
"I regret that our situation has caused you emotional distress. But it cannot be, Ranulf. I am tied to Jim in every way that is possible. And I would not have it otherwise. As it is, I do not understand why you were not discouraged by my link to Jim. It has kept the other inmates from attempting to coerce a response from him."
"I don't know. Maybe I'm just more stubborn than most. I don't give up easily." Ranulf got up. He folded the blanket and tossed it to the foot of the bunk. "I better be getting back to my own cell. It's almost lights-out. I'll see you in the morning."
The lights dimmed ten minutes after the Romulan left. Spock undressed and buried himself in his covers. His ache for his lover suddenly felt like it was a part of his body. He forced himself to relax, to forget the emptiness of his bed and his arms. He followed the path of the link in his mind to its other end. Here at least, he was not alone. He nestled down in the comfort of his t'hy'la's mind and finally slept.
McCoy took his time getting to his cabin. He seemed to spend an awfully lot of time by himself these days, and the loneliness of his small domain just seemed to get worse all the time.
Scotty had his hands full running the ship. Starfleet hadn't seen the point in reassigning the Enterprise a new captain with less than six months of their mission left. Between his bridge duties and engineering, the Scot was being run ragged. Mr. Spock's duties had been divvied out to half a dozen different officers, as the Vulcan's use to the ship was brought painfully home. Divided six ways, it still wasn't being done with the precision and expertise Spock had brought to anything he touched.
McCoy passed the two locked doors where his friends' belongings still occupied the otherwise empty cabins. Empty of life, of hope. McCoy knew he needed to get in there and box everything up. Jim's stuff would be sent to his mother, and Spock's would go to Sarek and Amanda.
The doctor didn't like to think about the effect of Spock's loss on the Vulcan ambassador and his wife. Perhaps because Spock was their only child, and they had only got him back a couple of years before, hadn't been given the time to make up for all the lost years due to the estrangement between parents and child, their response had been so extreme. Whatever the reason, their reaction to their son's death had shocked McCoy.
The Enterprise had been unable to divert to Vulcan for the ceremony for Spock's death, but the doctor had managed to hitch a ride on a passing cruiser. He saw first hand what the loss of Spock had done to them. Sarek had turned inward, barricading himself further behind his shield of logic. You could almost see the ice form as the Vulcan dealt with Spock's death by denying that he felt anything at all. Amanda had gone to the opposite extreme. Years of Vulcan discipline had shattered and exposed the decimated human beneath. If he was any judge of the situation, McCoy wouldn't be at all surprised to hear that she had followed her son within the next few years. That kind of grief had its own frightening power.
Not really knowing why, he found himself using his medical override and entering Kirk's cabin. It even smelled different. The vent was still open, so the room was getting fresh air just like the rest of the ship. Yet an odor lingered. Like the smell of a tomb. McCoy shook himself, surprised at the morbid turn his mind had taken. The smell was probably something gone bad in one of the rooms. The doors into the bathroom that connected this room to Spock's were wide open. It could be coming from any of the three.
He made his way through the bathroom into the science officer's quarters. There it was. The incense Spock used while meditating had decomposed, and the oils in it had gone rancid. McCoy gingerly emptied the small basin in the incense burner's belly. "Ugly thing. Never could understand how Spock could sleep with this staring down at him," he muttered. He carried the remains into the bathroom and flushed them away.
Now what? McCoy leaned against the sink and looked at himself in the mirror. He had aged, no doubt about it. He was getting old, and tired of losing people he cared about. He thought about his friends, something he tried not to do too often. Even after almost three months the pain could still take his breath away. What would they have wanted? He looked first to one side and then the other, back and forth, gazing at all that was left to mark their passing.
Finally he knew. He didn't know how Kirk's mother would take it. Somehow, he thought she would approve. Sarek and Amanda would probably never open the boxes, so it wouldn't matter. But it mattered to him. He moved into Kirk's cabin and grabbed one of the boxes that had cluttered the room since the captain's death. Each would hold a bit of both of them. When Winona Kirk opened up the boxes that held the last of her son's possessions, she would find a part of both her son and the being who had been his other half.
For the first time since hearing the tragic news, McCoy felt like smiling.
"God, it's good to be home!" Kirk cast a glance at Spock who had hovered about him all the way from the infirmary. Lausus had finally released him right before dinner and had then joined them for a celebratory meal. It had helped to relieve the tension in both men.
"This is not home," Spock intoned.
Kirk laughed. "You know what I mean." He walked to the shelves and picked up the book he had been struggling with before being injured. "I never thought I'd be happy to see this again." He skimmed through the pages of the dog-eared book.
Spock put his head down, the amusement on his face almost hidden. "You are doing quite well in your efforts to learn the Romulan language. I am sure any child would be quite envious of your expertise."
"Very funny. I'll have you know that Lausus found my Romulan to be quite good."
"Yes. He mentioned that he would always be able to tell it was you from your rather unique use of grammar."
"I keep slipping into Standard." Kirk replaced the book. It was late, and lights-out was almost upon them. Besides, he had no intention of reading tonight. He walked over to close the door, then moved to the table and sat down on one of the chairs. He motioned Spock to the one across from him.
Spock raised his eyebrow in question, and took the seat.
"I want to know what's going on. How are the plans are coming along?"
"I have secured the necessary ingredients for the drug to be used against the guard. Both Ranulf and I have set aside a small amount of nonperishable food supplies. We still need more, but our escape date is still a month away."
"Has Ranulf told you anything more?" Kirk kept the small amount of anger he still held against the Romulan out of his voice. He had felt something that night over two weeks before. It didn't take a genius to figure out what had happened. Spock had been even worse the next day, almost blatant in his regard for him. Especially when Ranulf was around. He knew he shouldn't feel this way. After all, it wasn't as if the young man had ever stood a chance. But he found that logic, his lover's oh-so-helpful tool, was useless when it came to their feelings for one another. Kirk had been taken aback by the fierce wave of jealousy he had experienced when he thought of anyone else touching Spock.
"As to the location of the tunnel? No, he has not. But I have surmised that it is located in that part of the complex to which we normally are not allowed access. When I have questioned him as to the tools we might need to hasten our escape, he digresses."
"So you figure he hasn't even seen it for himself? That's just great. We could find ourselves looking for a way out that doesn't exist."
Spock tilted his head in thought. "I think not. I do not believe he is going on hearsay alone. He speaks too surely when mentioning it. I must believe that it exists, and that he knows exactly where it is."
Kirk grimaced. "I hope so."
"Jim," Spock spoke hesitantly. "There is something else I wish to discuss with you."
"What is it?"
"I wish to strengthen the link between us." The Vulcan stared at him. His gaze was filled with determination.
"I thought it would strengthen on its own. That eventually it would turn into a total bond."
"That is correct. And indeed, it has already begun to do so. But on its own it could take several months, perhaps a year. I merely wish to...facilitate its growth."
He frowned. Spock didn't do anything like this without a strong motive. And suddenly he knew exactly what it was. "No, Spock."
The Vulcan glared at him and pushed himself away from the table. He stood with his back turned to Kirk, and stared up through the high window. "Why would you refuse me this?"
"Because I know why you want it. I won't be the cause of your death. If something happens to me...I want you out of here."
Spock swirled around, his anger even more apparent. "And what of what I desire? Is that of no consequence? Must it always be what you want?"
"I'm not going to argue about this, Spock. You can throw a fit if you want, but it's not going to change my mind. When we're out of here, when we're safe, if you still want me I'll be the first to insist on bonding. But not before."
"You promise this?"
Kirk almost smiled. Sometimes his lover was so transparent. His promise was what Spock had probably been after in the first place. "Yes, I promise. Now take me to bed. It's been damn near a month since we've made love and I'm tired of waiting."
The Vulcan walked over, the anger now totally erased from his countenance. He eased Kirk up from the chair and wrapped his arms around him. His mouth descended and Kirk eagerly met it. Their hunger for each other brought them both to a raging hardness.
Because of their situation, their lovemaking had by necessity been sporadic. And there were things they had never done to one another. Kirk planned on rectifying that right now. He pulled his mouth away from the intoxicating taste of his lover's. "Get your clothes off."
Spock gave him a knowing smile. He removed his garments and slipped into bed.
Kirk had watched his lover undress in eager anticipation. Now he hastily tore at his own and clambered in next to the Vulcan, his hands anxious to lay claim to what was his.
"All I thought about was this. Feeling you, your body against mine." Kirk pulled himself on top of Spock and sat up to look down on his lover. He took the Vulcan's cock in his hand and began to expertly manipulate it until Spock was writhing under him. He pistoned his hips and pushed himself against Kirk.
"Do you like that? Do you like it when I touch you this way?" He reached out and pinched one of Spock's nipples, pulling a loud moan from the Vulcan. "You do, don't you? You love the way I touch you, the way I make you come."
"Yes," Spock hissed. He reached out to tug Kirk's upper body down against him without breaking the gentle rocking that nudged their cocks together.
Kirk continued sliding his hand up and down the straining shaft. "Say it. Say what it is you want me to do to you."
The Vulcan's head was rolling slowly back and forth on the pillow and his arms had reached back to grab hold of the end of the bunk. "I want you to take me, my body. I want you to put your organ inside of me."
"No, say it. Say what you want." Kirk let go of the Vulcan's cock and reached over to grab his pants from the floor. He manipulated the small tube from one of its pockets and repositioned himself between Spock's legs. He opened the top with his teeth, spitting out the cap and squeezing the contents into one hand. Kirk threw the tube aside and spread the thick ointment over both. He coated his cock with one hand while returning to the fondling of the Vulcan's shaft with the other. "Come on, Spock, say it!"
Confusion lit the Vulcan's face for a moment and he tilted his head in question. Kirk saw when understanding dawned and Spock spread his legs and pulled them up against his body. "Make love to me. I wish you to make love to me. Now."
Kirk pulled slightly back but continued to stroke Spock's hard shaft. He leaned over and balanced himself with his other hand, his cock nestling between the Vulcan's buttocks. "Put it in."
Spock reached down and ran Kirk's penis along his crack until the tip lay against his anus. He put both his hands on Kirk's ass and slowly pushed him in.
"Oh, god, yes." Kirk had never felt anything like it. It was so hot, so tight. No woman had ever felt this way. He tried to go slow, but Spock's hands were insistent, moving him forward until he felt his balls rest against his lover. He pulled out and then shoved himself all the way back in, building up a rhythm as he fucked Spock's sweet, hot ass.
Spock moaned beneath him, and raised his hips to meet each plunge of the cock into his body. His fingers were digging into Kirk's buttocks, pulling him hard against him, forcing him to slam into the Vulcan.
Kirk gasped for air, and his hair plastered against his brow as sweat trickled down. His body was caught in the riot of sensation caused by the hot constriction around his cock, and Spock's organ, heavy and full in his hand. He felt the end near and gathered speed. His hips snapped forward and back, fucking the Vulcan harder, deeper, while he squeezed the cock slipping in and out of his fist.
"Jim, oh, Jim!" Spock threw his head back. His cock pulsed and Kirk felt a stream of hot liquid coat his fingers. The Vulcan shook as his organ continued to spew forth his seed, until finally he shuddered and closed his eyes.
At that moment Kirk knew that he would never be able to love another. That no matter what happened, he was Spock's, and always would be. He cried out, buried himself deep into the beloved body and let his orgasm take him. His semen filled the tight orifice as his balls emptied and his cock slowly softened.
Kirk slumped over Spock's body and felt the Vulcan's arms come up and wrap around him. He pulled himself out of his lover, and a stream of semen ran out to mix with Spock's on the sheets and on their bodies. He lay down on his lover while their breathing slowly calmed. For some reason he felt close to crying.
"It is the intensity of our joining that is making you feel this way," Spock whispered.
Kirk knew that Spock had picked that up through their link, and he knew that Spock could feel everything he was feeling. Yet still, he wanted to say it out loud. "I love you so much, Spock."
"As I love you,."
Kirk smiled into the fine hair of Spock's chest. He was so happy. At this moment he could believe they would escape and find their way back home. At this moment, anything was possible as long as they were together.
"Where is the human?" Ranulf asked. He had sneaked up on Manius, startling the old man.
Manius only motioned his hand toward the area of the room hidden by rows of tall shelves lined with the books that made up the prison's library.
Ranulf walked to the shelf area, until the human's whistling drew him to the corner of the room. Kirk stood next to a cart loaded down with books and methodically inserted them into their proper places.
Ranulf still felt that Spock would eventually come to him. He didn't totally accept this "link" thing, but he wasn't about to let the Vulcan know that. Instead he had backed off, allowing Spock to think that Ranulf had given up. He hadn't. Even after overhearing the 'welcome' Spock had given the human his first night back in their cell.
But he had continued to be their eyes and ears within the general population, so it was to him that Spock had to come for information. And he was the one who decided what needed to be collected and how their escape would progress. Their plans had been moving forward when Kirk had used his forceful personality to take charge. Ranulf wasn't exactly sure how it had happened, but a few days after Kirk's release from the infirmary, their roles had mysteriously reversed.
So here he was, reporting to his rival any information he might run across that might help them. And Kirk had written a new list of supplies he deemed necessary. He walked up to the human, who turned at his approach.
Kirk stopped whistling and nodded. "What is it?"
Ranulf bit back a smile. He was well aware that Kirk knew of his desire for the Vulcan and that he still wanted Spock for his own. But the human was a realist, and, Ranulf thought derogatorily, vain enough to think that he'd have no real competition for Spock's affection. "I just overheard Tal talking to one of the other guards. They expect Hoben to be released in a few more days."
"That's just great," Kirk grated. "That leaves us another ten to get through. How sure was he about that?"
"I don't know. I didn't think to ask him," Ranulf sarcastically answered.
Kirk just looked at him a moment. Ranulf felt like something being examined under a microscope. The human finally turned away with a shrug and returned to his work. "Have you told Spock about this?"
"No, not yet. He's with Lausus and a sick inmate. I couldn't get him alone. You can tell him tonight in bed."
Kirk's head jerked up, and he graced Ranulf with a penetrating stare. "I'm only going to tell you this once, Ranulf. I really don't care what you think of me. But I care a great deal how you talk about Spock. Don't ever let me hear you bring up mine and Spock's personal life again. Because plans or no plans, I'll make sure it's the last time you do. Do I make myself clear?"
It occurred to him at that moment that this man was probably more dangerous than the Vulcan. He smiled, and pretended a joviality he didn't feel. "Sure. I was only kidding anyway. You don't have to take it so personally."
"I take it personally because it is," Kirk answered then turned back to the shelves. "You better go before someone wonders what you're doing in here."
Ranulf walked out without another word. It really didn't matter what the human thought. He had time to win the Vulcan to his side once they were free. Then he would be the one to draw the sounds of completion from him that Ranulf had wept at hearing.
Kirk finished re-shelving the books and pushed the cart back to the front of the room. Manius was still at the small desk that served as a check-out station. He was going over the names, making sure all was as it should be. He noticed his own name at the top of the first page.
"I'll get the book back in a few days, Manius," Kirk said with a hint of embarrassment.
"There is no rush, my young friend. 'A History of Romulan Colonial Expansion' is not a book that is much asked for," the older man stated.
Kirk grinned and took the seat across from the Romulan. "I've always been interested in history. And it's been very interesting to learn of the parallels between our people."
"Parallels? Between Romulans and Terrans?" Manius looked over in surprise.
"Sure. Both seem to have this drive to expand, face the unknown. Of course, our tactics are a bit different when it comes to colonization. We prefer to allow new worlds the opportunity to say no."
"Perhaps. I have never concerned myself with things I have no power to change, so I would not know. And it is difficult to form an opinion on things seen from behind a high wall."
Manius returned to his work, and Kirk let his gaze remain on the older man. Manius had never said much about himself. All of Kirk's knowledge of the Romulan came from their fellow inmates. It was rumored that he had been someone of considerable power at one time. It was hard to imagine that this tired and defeated old man had ever been a force to be reckoned with.
"Did your friend find what he was looking for?" Manius asked without looking up.
"I guess you could say that." Kirk frowned. This was why he hadn't wanted Ranulf coming here. He stuck out like a sore thumb. He had never been the type to use the facility before.
"He is a strange, that one."
"Why do you say that?"
Manius put down his pen and looked directly at Kirk. He appeared to weigh his words before speaking. "He opens himself to very few, seeming to prefer solitude. I was surprised to see him take to you and your companion as he has."
Not so much me. Kirk hesitated a moment. "You mentioned that Ranulf's partner had died here."
"That is correct."
"You weren't talking about them just being partners as pilots, were you?"
The Romulan shook his head. "No, he and Senius were lovers. Actually, the Vulcan bears a startling resemblance to Senius. Senius had the same aloofness, the same aura of detachment. Physically they are of a kind also."
"Really?" Kirk wondered anew at the situation he and Spock found themselves in with the young man. He didn't know if this made it better or worse. He could feel sorry for the Romulan, losing the person he loved the way he had. But he was beginning to resent Ranulf's blatant attempts to garner Spock's attention.
"Is Ranulf causing difficulties for you?"
"N..no, not exactly." Kirk smiled at the old man. "Nothing I can't handle." He glanced at the chronometer and rose. "Time's up. I'll see you in the morning, Manius."
"Have a good night, James."
The old man had gone back to his list by the time Kirk grabbed his jacket and made his way out of the room. The cold air that hit when he opened the door made him hunch over and shiver. He buried his hands in his pockets and headed for the commissary. He turned the corner and saw Spock and Ranulf standing in front of the double doors that led into the building. They hadn't seen him, so he stopped and took the opportunity to study the two men.
Spock was stonily listening to whatever Ranulf was going on about, but even from where he stood Kirk could tell that the Vulcan was upset. When Spock answered back, his lips were set in a stern line. It didn't seem to please Ranulf, because the young Romulan shook his head violently and grabbed Spock's hand.
Kirk had never seen Spock react so violently to the touch of another. He pulled his hand away as if burned. He looked like he was about to strike Ranulf when he finally saw past the young man to Kirk, still standing thirty feet away.
Kirk casually walked over and stood between the two men. His voice was calm, so that no one seeing him could know the anger that lay just below the surface. "What's going on?"
Spock lowered his head. "Ranulf has notified me of Hoben's eminent release."
"And?" Kirk kept his gaze on his lover.
The Vulcan brought his head up to look directly at the Romulan, his brown eyes filled with a barely leashed rage. "He wishes to devise alternate plans in the event of your inability to accompany us."
Kirk sighed and shook his head. Would it never end? "For one thing, I can't believe you two would argue about this out here." He nodded to encompass their surrounding, his voice an angry whisper. "For another," he turned to Spock then and lay his hand on the Vulcan's shoulder, "we've already talked about this. You know what I want."
Spock looked away, but did not answer.
Ranulf spoke up. "I was just trying to make him see th—"
"Shut up." Kirk turned to the Romulan. "Just shut up and go to dinner."
The young man stood and glared at Kirk for a moment before finally storming off into the building.
Kirk turned back to his lover, his voice now gentle. "Are you all right?"
Spock bit his lower lip, but nodded his head yes.
"Feel like eating something?"
Spock looked up and after a few seconds nodded again. Kirk gave him an encouraging smile, and the two men went in to take their place in line. But later in bed, the Vulcan sleeping next to him, Kirk couldn't help but wonder if their problems would only get worse once free of the prison. Right now, Ranulf was their ace in the hole. Once out, he'd hold all the cards.
Spock watched from a distance as Lausus helped Hoben into his clothes. The guard was being released. Their reprieve was over.
Hoben looked up and gave Spock an obscene grin. "I thought you'd be glad to see the end of me, Spock. But you look like you're actually going to miss me."
"Leave him alone, Hoben." Lausus' words were spoken softly, but edged with steel.
"He's a prisoner. I can do or say whatever I want to him," Hoben groused. The guard winced when the doctor pulled his jacket on a little too fast.
"Just remember that your body is not fully recovered." Lausus picked up the discarded sleep ware and handed it to Spock. "Here, take these. Strip the bed and then get back to rolling more bandages."
Spock was grateful for the doctor's intervention as Lausus led the guard out of the private room and to the main area. When the door closed, Spock turned to his task. He took longer than was perhaps necessary, but he did not wish to have to deal with Hoben right now.
It was getting so that the knot of anxiety he had fought uselessly to deny was building to a heavy weight in his chest. Eight days. Eight days to worry and wonder if Hoben would carry out his threats against Kirk.
He took his time, but eventually he was forced to gather the linen and return to the front room. The doctor was nowhere to be seen, but as he made his way over to the large laundry bin to deposit the bundle of sheets, he noticed that Hoben had been joined by Tal. The younger guard was handing over a set of keys.
"Where's the rest of my stuff?" Hoben belligerently asked.
"If you're talking about your whip and baton, they're in your locker. "You're not on duty until tomorrow. The only reason I brought your keys was so you could get through the gate," Tal answered.
Hoben jangled the keys about, and then clipped them to his belt. He started towards the exit, but his progress was slowed by a noticeable limp. One kneecap had been shattered during the assault and would always give him trouble. "You coming?" he asked Tal as he opened the door.
Tal glanced over at Spock, his expression unreadable. "I need to talk to Lausus for a moment. I'll see you later."
Hoben shrugged. "Suit yourself."
The door closed, but Tal only stood there, as if waiting for a sign from Spock.
"Do you wish me to call the doctor?" Spock finally asked.
Tal shook his head and walked over to stand next to Spock. "It's you I want to talk to."
Spock's eyes narrowed. "What is it you wish to speak of?"
"Something's going on, I'm not sure what. But it has to do with your friend, the human."
"What of him?"
Tal sat back on the desk behind him, crossing his arms as he studied Spock. "Hoben was supposed to go with Traccus to the Imperial ceremonies."
Spock blinked at the non sequitur. "What has that to do with my captain?"
"Nothing on the face of it. But when they told me I was to go in his place, I started thinking. It's a great honor to be included in the ceremonies. For Hoben to pass it up, well, I just couldn't understand why. Until it occurred to me, there's only going to be a handful of guards here. If Hoben wanted to try anything, it'd be a perfect time for it."
"You feel he will use the opportunity to do away with Captain Kirk." It made sense. There would be no one around to stop him.
"Exactly. All he'd have to say was that Kirk tried to escape. No one would question him."
Spock sat heavily on the nearby bed. This could ruin everything. If Hoben removed Kirk from their cell, there was no way their plans could be instigated. They would be trapped. "Is there nothing you can do?" He was almost pleading.
Tal shrugged. "I don't know. I don't see how. That's why I'm telling you. It's up to you to keep your friend safe. Make sure he doesn't do anything stupid. You, either."
He almost betrayed himself when his head jerked up to stare at the guard. Did Tal know what they were planning? "Why would you care if we lived or died? We are nothing to you."
"I know our people are enemies, Spock. But that doesn't mean that we're all like Hoben. No one deserves what Hoben will do to your friend if he gets his hands on him. He'll kill him, but not before he has his fun with him."
Spock blanched and his mouth went dry. He bitterly thought of how close they were to freedom, yet how far they still were from safety. "I thank you for your concern," he said dully. "I will do all I can to keep him safe. I only hope it is enough."
The guard nodded. He looked like he was about to say more, but instead left Spock sitting there to contemplate his words.
The door closing pulled Spock from his thoughts, and he was slightly surprised to find himself alone. Tal had done all he dared, and for that Spock would be forever grateful. But now it was up to him and Kirk to decide how and to what degree this information would change their plans.
The rest of the day progressed slowly, though none watching him would have been able to tell that Spock's thoughts were not on his duties. The doctor returned, and together they prepared the medicines that were in need of resupply. Surgical equipment was cleaned and put away, notes transcribed for orderly filing. By the time he left to meet Kirk for dinner, Spock was sure of his course. Whether he could save his captain or not, whether their bid for freedom was successful or not, they would not be parted. Kirk's fate was his.
Spock was relieved when Kirk seemed disinclined to talk as they ate their meal. His captain had been waiting for him when Spock had finally finished with his duties, and together they had walked silently into the commissary.
All around them the other inmates kept up a continuous chatter. For many, this was the time when they relaxed and turned to the fantasy that their lives were their own. Spock had been fascinated from the first at the capacity for self-delusion.
He turned his gaze from his fellow prisoners to regard Kirk. If Kirk was aware of the misgivings that plagued him, he gave no sign. Yet Spock knew that to be the case. Kirk's ability to see beneath his Vulcan facade had grown in tandem with the link that stretched between them.
They finished their meal and headed outside. It was still light, but clouds were beginning to build to the north, skittering over the mountain tops that could be seen over the high walls.
"Let's take a walk." Kirk motioned to the path that ran along the perimeter of the prison yard.
They walked for several minutes. They passed a prisoner or two going about their own concerns. The wall helped to break the wind that was gaining strength, and they hugged its side as they made their way along.
Kirk tilted his head, giving Spock a questioning look. "You going to tell me what's wrong now?"
Spock looked around, making sure no one was near before answering. "Tal came to see me today. He seems to feel that Hoben is planning something for the day of the Romulan celebration."
"The day of our..." Kirk glanced around. "The day we plan on leaving?"
"Yes. Initially it was Hoben's place to accompany Traccus to the ceremonies. But he has relegated the task to Tal. Tal believes it is because with so many of the guards gone, it will give Hoben ample opportunity to carry out whatever scheme he may have concocted."
"With yours truly the guest of honor, I imagine." The human rubbed his neck, a frown creasing his brow as he thought over their latest problem. "You don't think they know about our plans, do you?"
"I think not. Tal did not act as a man trying to convey a warning of secrets discovered. Rather, it was more a show of concern for our safety."
"So unless Hoben did something before we could get away, everything could continue as planned," Kirk mused.
"Not necessarily. Even if our attempt was successful, his interference could shorten the length of time we would have to avoid recapture."
"Are you saying you think we should call it off?"
"No." Spock struggled to put into words the conflicting impulses that were tearing at him. "If we do not take this opportunity, there may be no other. If that is the case, Hoben will eventually find a way to harm you." He shook his head slightly. "I know that you would have me leave you, allow your death to gain my own freedom, but that is something I cannot do. You are my captain, and I will follow you, always. But you are also my t'hy'la. Perhaps you do not completely understand what that implies, the responsibility inherent to that role. Our paths are joined. There is no other way for me now."
"In other words, even if I order you to go without me, you won't?" Kirk's face was expressionless, but there was an underlying tension in his voice.
Spock swallowed hard. "I...I do not believe I would be capable of it, no."
"You would disobey a direct order?
"Please, Jim, do not make me make that decision." It was out there between them now. The one thing that could destroy all they were to each other. Spock studied his captain, trying to ascertain how Kirk was responding to his words. But the human had turned away and fallen silent.
Continue to part 4.