eceived: from [66.218.67.197] by n17.grp.scd.yahoo.com with NNFMP; 10 May 2004 03:52:01 -0000 X-Sender: stephen@trekiverse.org X-Apparently-To: ascl@yahoogroups.com Received: (qmail 74903 invoked from network); 10 May 2004 03:52:00 -0000 Received: from unknown (66.218.66.218) by m4.grp.scd.yahoo.com with QMQP; 10 May 2004 03:52:00 -0000 Received: from unknown (HELO grebe.mail.pas.earthlink.net) (207.217.120.46) by mta3.grp.scd.yahoo.com with SMTP; 10 May 2004 03:52:00 -0000 Received: from sdn-ap-022dcwashp0084.dialsprint.net ([63.191.160.84]) by grebe.mail.pas.earthlink.net with smtp (Exim 3.33 #1) id 1BN1pY-0005R2-00 for ascl@yahoogroups.com; Sun, 09 May 2004 20:51:52 -0700 To: ascl@yahoogroups.com Organization: Alt.StarTrek.Creative Virtual Staff Office Message-ID: X-Mailer: Forte Agent 1.92/32.572 X-eGroups-Remote-IP: 207.217.120.46 X-eGroups-From: Stephen From: Stephen X-Yahoo-Profile: oldmanasc MIME-Version: 1.0 Mailing-List: list ASCL@yahoogroups.com; contact ASCL-owner@yahoogroups.com Delivered-To: mailing list ASCL@yahoogroups.com Precedence: bulk List-Unsubscribe: Date: Sun, 09 May 2004 23:51:22 -0400 Subject: [ASC] TOS - Second Sight 1/2 (S/Mc, au)[R] Reply-To: ASCL-owner@yahoogroups.com Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1 Forwarded by the ASC-VSO Posted: 09 May 2004 22:59:18 GMT In: alt.startrek.creative From: linkys@aol.comspamfree (TLin) Title: Second Sight Author: T'Lin ( LinkyS@aol.com ) Series: TOS Rating: R Codes: S/Mc, au Part: 2 (1/2) Summary: Challenge Scenario: Write a S/Mc answering the question, "What would Note: Written for Round 8 of the Spock/McCoy Fuh-q Fest. More S/Mc stories can be found at http://www.members.tripod.com/spockmccoyote/thespockmccoyotesden2/ Archiving: The SpockMcCoyote's Den, ASC* and my own web page -- www.geocities.com/tlin_s/ -- all others, please ask first. Disclaimer: Paramount/Viacom own the TREK universe, I just play there. No copyright infringement is intended, nor do I make any money off of this ... it is purely for entertainment. I promise to return everyone to their rightful place, unharmed, when I am finished. This original work of fanfiction is the property of T'Lin, © 24 April, 2004. ************* SECOND SIGHT by T'Lin -- 0404.24 A week has passed since Deneva was purged of the infestation that had been driving its inhabitants mad ... the same infestation that ultimately left Spock quite blind. Not that the creature that had invaded his body actually *caused* the blindness; no, I did that all on my own. I never should have let him be the first test subject ... at least not so soon after the death of one of the creatures. We should have done tests, to determine exactly what it was that killed it. But of course, neither of us were thinking too clearly by that time. Spock seemed to be in control, at least outwardly, and had convinced the Captain that he was, but I knew differently ... there was only so much he could keep from me. As the creature invaded every system of his body, his ability to block my awareness of what was happening grew weaker. After all, we have been bonded for years; nothing short of death could separate us. The only time I felt any peace was when he was sedated ... but even then, I was not at my best. The sedation had an effect on me, as well. I suppose I should have told the Captain about my incapacity, but I was desperate to save Spock. And save him I did ... albeit not without permanent injury. I've resorted to typing my log entries for the time being, so as not to disturb Spock's sleep. He looks so peaceful, but I know he is in turmoil, uncertain of what the future holds for him. For the moment, he is on medical leave, and will remain so indefinitely. He will remain aboard Enterprise until we are able to return him to a Starbase where he can get transport back to Vulcan. He has already been in contact with his parents, who are making all the arrangements. I have asked for permission to join him, but have not had an answer from the Captain yet; Sarek has offered to find a suitable replacement for me, which should placate Jim. Jim ... my oldest friend aboard this ship, yet ... something happened between us when Spock was injured. He *says* he doesn't blame either of us for what happened, but I can see it in his eyes ... he thinks I let my personal feelings get in the way of sound medical judgment. The problem is, he may be right. "McCoy here," I say quietly, and see Spock stir at the sound. "Sorry to disturb you, Bones, but I just had a message from Sarek. Seems there's a Doctor M'Benga on Starbase 127 who will be available for active duty in three weeks time ... just a few days after we arrive there. From what I've been reading on him, he should be able to fill in for you, on a temporary basis." "How temporary?" I asked. Spock is now sitting on the edge of the bed, obviously listening. "He's committed to being the CMO of the Potemkin after her refit, which gives him 10 months before he has to report to his new assignment. Will that give you the time you need?" "I suppose it will have to do," I reply, then realize how resigned I sound, and add, "Thanks, Cap'n." "It's the least I could do ... after all, Starfleet has a lot invested in Spock, and if anything can be done for him ..." Kirk's voice trailed off, knowing that his words accused, even if he didn't intend them to. "Yeah," I replied, knowing where his thoughts were leading. "Thanks," I said again, then signed off. Turning to Spock, I said, "Your father has found a replacement for me, at least a temporary one." "So I heard ..." Spock stood, and I hastily went to his aide. He was still quite unaccustomed to navigating on his own, and continually walked into the furniture. I knew it was not due to lack of ability, simply lack of concentration. That, in-and-of-itself, had me worried. It was a clear-cut sign of depression, if ever I saw one. Unfortunately, I had no way of dealing with a depressed Vulcan, even if he was my bondmate. As I helped him into the sitting room, I said, "A great deal can happen in ten months. At the very least, we should be able to determine if anything can be done to reverse your condition ... and if not, see what alternatives there are for rehabilitation." Spock was silent, so I bent down and kissed him, adding, "whatever happens, we will get through it, together." I straightened, and as I did, Spock reached out and grabbed my arm, saying, "I am a scientist ... and although my specialty is not medicine, I can assure you that it is most likely that nothing can be done. You should stay here, where you belong ...you needn't give up your career for me." "Where I belong is at your side," I said, then I knelt beside him, resting my head on his lap, as I continued, "I couldn't bear to be separated from you for that long, don't you see that?" I felt Spock's hand on the base of my neck, his fingers gently stroking just below my ear the way he knew I liked it. With the contact, our bond flared open for a split second, but no more ... Spock was still shutting me out of his innermost thoughts. At last, he said, "Yes, I 'see' ... but I also know that, if there is no hope of recovery for me, I will be unable to return to Starfleet. I cannot ask you to do the same." "You wouldn't have to ask," I said, intentionally opening my mind so he could see the truth of my words. "I can be a doctor anywhere ... or I can spend all my days and nights with you ... Starfleet is unimportant." "What about Jim? Could you just abandon him?" "For you, yes," I said, lifting my head so that I could look into his eyes. "There are other doctors in Starfleet ... hell, to be honest with you, Christine is qualified to be the CMO, or nearly so ..." "I am well aware of that, but he is your friend ... he deserves ..." Spock was saying, but I interrupted. "And you are my husband. Family must always come before friends ... always." Still on my knees, I stretched up to kiss him, and felt his strong arms around me for the first time since his injury. ***** On Vulcan, at last. Even at night, it is miserably hot, but at least we are finally here, and I have a few moments to myself. It has been weeks since I was able to record my thoughts, and I find that I miss it. Somehow, this simple task seems to help bring everything into focus; a much needed task in these troubling times. But even now, I find myself digressing ... so much has happened since last I had a moment to put my thoughts into words, I'm not sure where to begin ... I just re-read my last entry, and realize the best place to start is where I left off. That night, as Spock and I made love, I had no idea that by morning, my life would be irreversibly altered, and we would be fighting for Spock's very life. Perhaps I should have seen it coming, but I really didn't think Spock had it in him to try something so desperate. But once again, I'm getting ahead of myself ... When I told Spock that he, as my husband, would always come before my career, he took me in his arms, and held me like he hadn't done in a very long time. He clung to me almost desperately, as if he had to assure himself that I was real ... that I was solid ... that I was whole. He was crying, probably for the first time in his adult life. I could feel the tears running down his cheeks, but I didn't say a word. I was so afraid that anything I said could be taken the wrong way, and I didn't want to hurt him with my words. So I held him, and let him cry ... my mind completely open and full of loving thoughts of him. At first, his mind was blank, as closed off to me as it had been while he was infected; his mental barriers stronger than ever. But slowly, I started seeing glimpses of his thoughts ... mostly of despair for the things he would never see again. I was amazed by the images in his mind. Always so analytical and ... well, scientific, I never realized the beauty he actually saw in everyday things. I doubt he was conscious of it, himself. In any case, the tears continued to flow, as image after image entered his thoughts. When at last, my own face appeared in his mind, he reached up and touched my cheek, saying that the image was already fading. I covered his hand with mine, keeping him from feeling my own tears, as they fell. I tried to comfort him, and tell him that everything would work out; that he *would* see again ... but the words seemed like a lie, and I couldn't continue. Just then, Spock seemed to compose himself, and told me he wanted to 'see' me, naked. To emphasize what he meant, he traced the outline of my face with his hands, and I instantly caught on to his meaning. I stood, and took him by the hand, and led him into the bedroom, where I sat him on the side of the bed, and started to undress. I stood before him, and told him to stand ... lifting his hands to my face, I told him to take a good look, being as thorough as he liked. His fingers were feather light on my face, touching every line and wrinkle around my eyes, the contour of my nose, the shape of my lips. As his hands moved to my neck and chest, I shivered; I could feel his desire for me through this light touch, and felt myself responding to it. My nipples hardened at his touch, and a shiver of pleasure went though me as he traced my ribs and moved down across my abdomen, only to move his hands outward again at the waist. Spock sat on the bed again, and told me to turn. His hands still on my waist as I did, my erect penis brushed against his arm as it passed, and I gasped slightly at the touch. Another gasp escaped, as he ran his hands down my cheeks, and into the cleft of my ass, gently probing. Just then, one of his hands slipped between my legs, and grabbed hold of my balls, the other went around my waist, and grabbed my shaft ... his tongue slipped into my cleft ... ... damn, just thinking about the rimjob he gave me made me come again. In any case, you get the idea of how the night went. When at last we went to sleep, sated and very much in love, I was sure that everything would be all right. I should have known better. Hell, looking back now, I can't believe I missed the most obvious sign that something was amiss ... that he was planning something, and didn't want me to know about it. In all of our lovemaking that night, we never once entered into a full meld. He never would have been able to hide his plans from me if we had. But even without the meld ... even with his barriers at their strongest ... I awoke two hours later, alone and feeling anxious. Spock was missing from our bed. I could feel *something* was wrong with him, but I couldn't tell what. I was panicky, and having difficulty breathing ... my medical training told me I was possibly having a heart attack, but I was so concerned over Spock, I ignored my own symptoms. Good thing, too, as it wasn't *me* who was in trouble. I called security, and had them put out an APB on Spock. As I did, a call went out from the bridge that a shuttle was launching without permission. Of course, it was Spock. He had disabled the tractor beams, and the transporters, as well as the remaining shuttles. It took some time to assemble an emergency team, and get one of the shuttles working so that they could intercept him; by then, I had passed out. When I came to in sickbay, Spock was on another diagnostic bed in the room, looking very pale. I tried to sit up, but was held down by Jim, who told me that Spock had tried to kill himself ... he had used a muscle relaxer, one that in sufficient quantity would stop his heart, then launched the shuttle with all life support systems off. He had been without oxygen for some time. I was numb with fear; Jim assured me that my staff was doing everything they could for him, but they didn't know if he would pull through, or not. At that time, neither did I. I needed to be over there, doing my own tests. I told Jim as much, but he didn't want to let me up. Instead of arguing with him, I called Christine over, and had her explain that my passing out was due to the link I share with Spock. As he suffered from lack of oxygen, I also did ... but now, I was fine, as I was not really deprived of oxygen. Jim was still skeptical, but he relented ... then stood by my side, to make sure I didn't collapse again. Spock was in a coma ... too weak to initiate a healing trance. I could feel him in my mind, but only faintly, as if he were still maintaining his shields at full strength. Of course, there could be extensive brain damage, and what I was feeling was all that was left of him ... but I couldn't think that. I *had* to believe that he was still there, just injured, and he would return to me ... eventually. Night and day, I sat by his side. For nearly three weeks, his condition remained the same. Although my awareness of him, through our bond, was barely perceptibly, I knew he was still there ... every test I performed said that he was whole ... his brainwave activity was unimpaired. Regardless of what everyone else thought, I persisted in being optimistic. He had lost his will to live, so I had to hold on, for both of our sakes. At last, we had arrived at Starbase 127, where Sarek was waiting with the Healer T'Vri, and a high-speed Diplomatic Shuttle to bring us all to Vulcan. I was with Spock when they arrived, and the Healer came to me first, lightly touching my temple, and my mind. The touch was very brief, and when she removed her hand, she told me that my injury was slight, and would heal in time. Before I could ask what she was talking about, she melded with Spock. Her face was impassive, but after a moment, there was a slight gasp from Spock, then silence once again. It was the first sound he had made since being brought back from the shuttle. T'Vri turned to me, and said that he was now in a healing trance, and would recover, in time. I asked her if she was sure, and I swear, there was a slight smile on her lips as she said yes ... he would recover fully; very likely, she could restore his eyesight, as well. My relief was overwhelming, and I started to cry, as I held Spock's hand to my lips. After a moment, Sarek suggested I let the Healer and her assistants prepare Spock for transport, and that I get my things together, as the shuttle would be leaving as soon as possible. I thanked him, and said my goodbye's to Christine, and Jim. I smiled as I assured them that I would be back, with Spock, in ten months. Then we were off ... knowing that Spock was in good hands, and would recover, I slept, I mean *really* slept, for the first time in three weeks. ***** TBC >:-] T'Lin T'Lin's FANFIC PAGE - http://www.geocities.com/tlin_s/ Femme Fuh-Q Fest - http://www.geocities.com/femme_fuhq_fest/ Round XIII is here! Round XIV coming your way May 31, 2004! "I dream a thousand paths ... I wake and walk my old one." (unkown) -- Stephen Ratliff ASC Awards Tech Support http://www.trekiverse.us/ASCAwards/commenting/ No Tribbles were harmed in the running of these Awards ASCL is a stories-only list, no discussion. Comments and feedback should be directed to alt.startrek.creative or directly to the author. Yahoo! Groups Links <*> To visit your group on the web, go to: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ASCL/ <*> To unsubscribe from this group, send an email to: ASCL-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com <*> Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to: http://docs.yahoo.com/info/terms/ From ???@??? Sun May 09 23:56:19 2004 X-Persona: Status: U Return-Path: Received: from n16.grp.scd.yahoo.com ([66.218.66.71]) by tanager (EarthLink SMTP Server) with SMTP id 1bn1RW3833NZFmQ1 for ; Sun, 9 May 2004 20:54:20 -0700 (PDT) X-eGroups-Return: sentto-1977044-13559-1084161126-stephenbratliffasc=earthlink.net@returns.groups.yahoo.com Received: from [66.218.66.30] by n16.grp.scd.yahoo.com with NNFMP; 10 May 2004 03:52:06 -0000 X-Sender: stephen@trekiverse.org X-Apparently-To: ascl@yahoogroups.com Received: (qmail 23137 invoked from network); 10 May 2004 03:52:06 -0000 Received: from unknown (66.218.66.217) by m24.grp.scd.yahoo.com with QMQP; 10 May 2004 03:52:06 -0000 Received: from unknown (HELO grebe.mail.pas.earthlink.net) (207.217.120.46) by mta2.grp.scd.yahoo.com with SMTP; 10 May 2004 03:52:06 -0000 Received: from sdn-ap-022dcwashp0084.dialsprint.net ([63.191.160.84]) by grebe.mail.pas.earthlink.net with smtp (Exim 3.33 #1) id 1BN1pe-0005R2-00 for ascl@yahoogroups.com; Sun, 09 May 2004 20:51:59 -0700 To: ascl@yahoogroups.com Organization: Alt.StarTrek.Creative Virtual Staff Office Message-ID: <02vt90d7unhhv9ek6gvcjh9el4686n4r6t@4ax.com> X-Mailer: Forte Agent 1.92/32.572 X-eGroups-Remote-IP: 207.217.120.46 X-eGroups-From: Stephen From: Stephen X-Yahoo-Profile: oldmanasc MIME-Version: 1.0 Mailing-List: list ASCL@yahoogroups.com; contact ASCL-owner@yahoogroups.com Delivered-To: mailing list ASCL@yahoogroups.com Precedence: bulk List-Unsubscribe: Date: Sun, 09 May 2004 23:51:29 -0400 Subject: [ASC] NEW: TOS - Second Sight 2/2 (S/Mc, au) [R] Reply-To: ASCL-owner@yahoogroups.com Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1 Make a clean sweep of pop-up ads. Yahoo! Companion Toolbar. Now with Pop-Up Blocker. Get it for free! http://us.click.yahoo.com/L5YrjA/eSIIAA/yQLSAA/5x3olB/TM ---------------------------------------------------------------------~-> Forwarded by the ASC-VSO Posted: 09 May 2004 22:59:52 GMT In: alt.startrek.creative From: linkys@aol.comspamfree (TLin) Title: Second Sight Author: T'Lin ( LinkyS@aol.com ) Series: TOS Rating: R Codes: S/Mc, au Part: 2 (2/2) Summary: Challenge Scenario: Write a S/Mc answering the question, "What would Note: Written for Round 8 of the Spock/McCoy Fuh-q Fest. More S/Mc stories can be found at http://www.members.tripod.com/spockmccoyote/thespockmccoyotesden2/ Archiving: The SpockMcCoyote's Den, ASC* and my own web page -- www.geocities.com/tlin_s/ -- all others, please ask first. Disclaimer: Paramount/Viacom own the TREK universe, I just play there. No copyright infringement is intended, nor do I make any money off of this ... it is purely for entertainment. I promise to return everyone to their rightful place, unharmed, when I am finished. This original work of fanfiction is the property of T'Lin, © 24 April, 2004. ************* ~continued from part 1~ Our first stop, once we arrived on Vulcan, was the medical wing of the Vulcan Science Academy. T'Vri had already made arrangements for Spock to have surgery, to replace his burned out corneas with synthetic ones ... the procedure had been perfected just the year before, and was not available to the general public yet. She had explained the procedure to me during our trip to Vulcan, after she had examined Spock. I was very happy to hear that Spock was a perfect candidate for this procedure. The damage to his eyes was extensive, but not overly invasive ... the high intensity light that caused his blindness burned the corneas, but did not damage the rest of his eye. His recovery should be nearly 100 percent. I was able to observe the procedure, which I found quite impressive. When it was over, I stayed with Spock for a while, hoping he would awaken. T'Vri assured me that he would remain in the healing trance for at least forty-eight hours, and the best thing I could do for him was get some rest, myself. Sarek had given me instructions to call his office when I needed transport to their home, so I did, and a car arrived in a matter of minutes. When I arrived at the house, Amanda was waiting for me, eager for the latest news about her son, and his condition. I filled her in as best I could. She offered me some dinner, but I was too tired to eat. She understood, and led me to Spock's room. Much to my amazement, there was a double bed -- Amanda saw my surprise, and said that it was a recent addition, knowing that I would be returning with Spock. The covers were already turned down for the night, and an old-fashion wind-up alarm clock on the bedside table. She kissed me on the cheek, and bid me sleep well, then left. I should have gone right to sleep, but needed to write this all down, first. I've set the alarm to go off in 8 hours ... that gives me plenty of time to sleep, and still get to the hospital before Spock awakens. ***** Talk about an eventful day. I've been at the hospital once again, after having been awakened only an hour after going to sleep. All the recorded summons said was that I was needed. I borrowed Amanda's vehicle, and was at the hospital in less than ten minutes. When I entered Spock's room, T'Vri was slapping him across the face. She only did it once before Spock's hand shot up, and restrained her ... that was the best thing I had seen in a very long time. T'Vri instantly stepped back, and gestured for me to approach. Spock's eyes were still bandaged, of course, and his voice was a mere whisper, gravely and weak from weeks of unconsciousness. "Leonard," he said, as I took his hand. When he whispered "forgive me" I bent down and kissed him, whispering back that there was no need, the cause was sufficient. The Vulcans in the room had ignored us, giving us a few moments to ourselves. A discrete cough reminded me that we were not alone, and I stood up, still holding onto Spock's hand. T'Vri then spoke to Spock, explaining the procedure that he had gone through, and what he should expect in the next days, weeks, and months. Much to my surprise, she was far more emphatic over the possibility that the procedure would not be 100% effective ... she went into a great deal of detail over possible side effects, apparently brought on by his Human genes. When I questioned her about this, she assured me that she was just being thorough ... it was better to be cautious than overly optimistic. Spock agreed, and for the first time since he lost his sight, opened his mind to me. I could see the gratitude he felt for everything I had done to save his life *and* his sight, no matter how much, or how little, he would be able to see in the future. Since Spock had come out of the healing trance far earlier than expected, the bandages on his eyes could not be removed yet. It took some doing, but we convinced Spock to re-initiate the trance, so that he could heal more fully. Once he was under, I followed T'Vri to the lab, where she could more fully explain the possible complications she had mentioned. It was then that I learned that the Vulcan eye was far more advanced than the Human eye. The average Vulcan's vision surpassed the average Human's in many regards; sharper focus at close range; more details at a distance; the ability to see clearly in brighter light, as well as in near darkness. Overall, the average Vulcan made someone with 20/20 vision seem more like 80/80 in comparison. The problem was, there was no way of knowing what Spock's vision was prior to the accident. As a child, his vision was only slightly better than Human, in some regards, and nearly Vulcan in others ... it had not been tested since he entered Starfleet Academy, and then, only the standard test all entrants took. It was a basic vision test, to make sure there were no deficiencies that would impair the candidates ability to work with others. With the replacement of his cornea's, Spock may see better ... or not as well. Only time would tell. In any case, after explaining it all to me, T'Vri let me rest in her office. There was no point in me returning to Spock's home, only to return again in a few hours. This time, when Spock was ready to come out of the trance, I was with him, and did the honors. Of course, it took a few more slaps from me to bring him out of it. It was time to remove the bandages, so the lights were lowered to a barely perceptible level, at least for me. Chances are, it would seem bright in here to Spock. I held his hand, as T'Vri carefully removed one, then the other, while Spock kept his eyes closed. Once the bandages were removed, T'Vri told him to slowly open his eyes. He squeezed my hand as he did, then turned to face me ... a smile came to his lips, as our eyes met, and I knew he could see. T'Vri asked him to evaluate his condition, and Spock confirmed my assessment, adding that everything was a bit blurry. T'Vri said that was to be expected, and it would be some time before a true evaluation of his vision could be made. She told him to rest ... not to strain his eyes, while they were still healing. Before she left the room, she handed Spock an eye mask to put on; it would protect his eyes while he slept, as well as prevent eyestrain while he was awake. She instructed him to wear it most of the time for the next two days. A specialist would be in to see him later, who would set up a series of tests and a rehabilitation schedule. I stayed with Spock for a few hours, just to be with him. We talked about everything, and nothing ... uncertain of what the future would hold, but knowing we would see it through together. One thing we did discuss, however, was the possibility that neither of us would be returning to the Enterprise ... apparently, even in his unconscious state, he had been aware of my own thoughts of leaving the fleet, to be with him on Vulcan. At first, I admit I contemplated it thinking that Spock would never regain his sight ... then I got a glimpse of the research facilities here. Suddenly, this began to look like a place we could both be happy in, eyesight, or not. In any case, we've both decided to let some time pass before mentioning anything to Jim. If nothing else, we need to see what the specialist says after she performs her tests. After all, ten months is a long time ... long enough that I may find I can't take the heat, no matter how tempting the facilities ... and Spock may miss the excitement of starship life, even if he won't admit it. ~epilog~ I see that nearly three months have passed since I last recorded my thoughts here ... three months of recovery, rehabilitation, and ... reality. I say reality because this time has been quite an eyeopener for me. I had joined Starfleet many years ago to escape from a failed marriage, thinking I would never find true happiness. I decided it was far better to immerse myself in work -- the constant discovery of new life and civilizations, and the continual danger of such a life, would keep me occupied; my loneliness would be less apparent. Then I met Spock ... and my world-view was forever transformed. I never dreamt that I would find happiness on Vulcan, but I had been willing to try, for his sake. It would have been the only way we could stay together, if his eyesight had not been restored. Well, either that, or he would have had to make due back on Earth, and even I could see that there would have been far more advantages to living on Vulcan than Earth. Be that as it may, Spock's eyesight has been restored ... as a matter of fact, his vision is actually better now than it had been before. The artificial corneas brought his visual range closer to true Vulcan than they had been. T'Vri has said that she will be releasing him from her care tomorrow, and he will be free to return to active duty if he wishes. The trouble is, neither of us really want to go back. Spock has been offered a position at the Science Academy, as well as one as a junior diplomat, working with his father. As for me, I've fallen in love with the research facilities offered at the medical wing of the Academy. They are simply amazing! At first, I had assumed that T'Vri invited me in to keep me occupied, and out of her hair while she worked with Spock. I soon discovered, however, that she and her team had a genuine interest in my opinions, and eagerly sought out my input. I was startled to see that some of my very own discoveries dealing with interspecies medicine were being studied by them, and adapted to fit a wide variety of situations. I suppose it was about a week ago, when Spock noticed that I was quite happy here. That night, we talked about resigning from Starfleet, so that he could accept the post with his father, as well as offer to teach at the Academy occasionally, and I could continue to do research, and possibly also teach from time to time. The down side of this decision, of course, would be that we would be leaving Jim high and dry. Deep down, we both know that he was expecting us back ... Jim doesn't accept defeat easily. Despite the facts when we left the ship, Jim Kirk was certain, in his gut, that Spock would be restored, and all would be as it had been. And he was right, Spock has been restored ... but things will never be the same. Anyway, we had decided to wait a month before making a final decision ... after all, it would be at least another six months before we would be expected to reunite with ENTERPRISE. Telling Jim now, or one month from now really wouldn't make much of a difference. Ah, sounds like Spock is home ... *** Spock is sleeping soundly in the other room, and I plan on joining him soon; but first, I wanted to finish what I had been recording. Actually, I need to amend it somewhat ... you see, Spock has gotten a communique from Jim, asking of his progress, and when/if we can be expected back aboard ship. Apparently, things are not working out with our replacements. Much to my surprise -- and I'll admit, a bit of relief -- Spock has told him that we will return as soon as T'Vri gives her approval, which should be in a day or two. Jim sent the Enterprise's itinerary for the next two weeks, and Spock assured him that a high-speed diplomatic transport would be available to us. Spock also assured me that we would return here, when the Enterprise's five-year mission was over. In the morning, we will both set our affairs in order, and make plans for our future. It's so nice to have something to look forward to. ~the end~ >:-] T'Lin T'Lin's FANFIC PAGE - http://www.geocities.com/tlin_s/ Femme Fuh-Q Fest - http://www.geocities.com/femme_fuhq_fest/ Round XIII is here! Round XIV coming your way May 31, 2004! "I dream a thousand paths ... I wake and walk my old one." (unkown) -- Stephen Ratliff ASC Awards Tech Support http://www.trekiverse.us/ASCAwards/commenting/ No Tribbles were harmed in the running of these Awards ASCL is a stories-only list, no discussion. Comments and feedback should be directed to alt.startrek.creative or directly to the author. Yahoo! Groups Links <*> To visit your group on the web, go to: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ASCL/ <*> To unsubscribe from this group, send an email to: ASCL-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com <*> Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to: http://docs.yahoo.com/info/terms/ From ???@??? Sun May 09 23:56:19 2004 X-Persona: Status: U Return-Path: Received: from n50.grp.scd.yahoo.com ([66.218.67.38]) by robin (EarthLink SMTP Server) with SMTP id 1bn1Ss3JO3NZFjX1 for ; Sun, 9 May 2004 20:54:52 -0700 (PDT) X-eGroups-Return: sentto-1977044-13560-1084161149-stephenbratliffasc=earthlink.net@returns.groups.yahoo.com