"KAPPA or 504."
Science fiction by Alfredo Juillet Frascara.
VI.2003.- EMRMC. SONG 13.
(Chronological continuation of Ankaa).(Number 12 in English ).
STAR TREK
T.O.S. Alternative Universe
Characters.
"Maora" OLD Crew
--------------------------------------------------
1. Captain James Tiberius Kirk.
2. First Officer .
3. Second Officer Lana Bickford
4. Science Officer .
5. Medical officer Pedro Truco
6. Chief Engineer Morian Sarcovetiz .
7. Transporter Engineer Wlad Smirnoff.
8. Ensign Pavel Adrian Jackson.
9. Exo Biologist Janice Icelon
10.Electromen: Ten.
------------------------------------------------------
"Enterprise" Crew.
1. Captain James Tiberius Kirk.
2. First Officer Tongai Gonzalez
3. Second Officer Lana Bickford
4. Science Officer Raul Reyes
5. Medical officer Leonard Horatio Truco
6. Chief Engineer Montgomery Morian .
7. Transporter Engineer Wlad Smirnoff.
8. Ensign Pavel Adreiev Chekov.
9. Exo Biologist Jennifer Smith
10. Communications Officer Nyota*/Upenda*.... Lana
11. Radar Man Lemuel the fleto
12. Guards {Enlisted First Class}: Ray Romero
13. Guard (Enlisted Second Class): Gil Clavero
14. Nurse Christine Chapel
15. Itaka Hikaru Sulu
16. Gordon Fern (Lt - Transporter Chief)
17. Mariela Marin (Yeoman)
18. Astor Jellicor (Lt.)
19. John Frejus (Lt.)
20. Salustio Venegas (Lt.) Engineer's section
21. Conrad Jullard (Meteorology Officer/helm)
22. Dinka Radika (Lt.)
23. Kelowitz (Lt. Comdr.)
24. DeSalle (Lt.)
25. DeSoto Mario (Lt.)
26. Hans Sarcoveti (Lt.)
28. Rick Orzung, Shuttlecraft 2 crew member
29. Janice Icelon, Shuttlecraft 2 crew member
30. Arkol Shicfern, Shuttlecraft 2 crew member
31. Salustio Venegas, Shuttlecraft 2 crew member
32. Joseph Verstandig, Shuttlecraft 2 crew member
33. Electromen : Ten.
*********
Kappa 3. Governor Twerk Tuwlo
CHAPTERS OF THE OBRA.
1.- JANICE ICELON PAGE 1
2.- IN MAR�S ORBIT 5
3.- THE TRIP 11
4.- VISCUINDIA PLANET 46
5.- GRIKO PLANET 50
THE END 70
CHAPTER 1.-
JANICE ICELON.
Kirk was seated in front of the backyard, looking how his two daughters dance in the sun; he was dozing when a chirrup from his cellphone awakes him.
- Hello?"- He said.
- Captain Kirk? Are you there?"- A young voice said.
- Yes, who is this?"- Kirk answered.
- It`s Janice Icelon, Sir! I am flying to your home, in this minute!"- She announced.
- What? - Kirk gives a jolt.
- Yes! The crew at the " Maora" is deserting, captain! I must talk with you about it."- She said.
- All right, Janice! Tell me in which vessel are you coming here, and I will go to the Spaceport to receive you!"- Kirk said.
- It's the "Paracelso"; it will land in three hours more, at the Santiago`s spaceport."- Janice said.
- All right, Janice! I will be in the lobby!"- Kirk said. Maora come to him, hearing his voice, and asked:"- What is happening, dear?"
- One of the crew members is coming here, darling! "- Kirk said, standing.
- Oh, yes? Why?"- Maora asked.
- Well, she said my crew is deserting! "- Kirk announced.
- Oh, that! You had been for five months here- too much for them to be waiting.!"- Maora acknowledged...
Kirk went in a taxi to the Spaceport ,and after some minutes, he saw Janice, walking with a pair of suitcases.
- Hi, Janice!"- He said, approaching. The young lady embraces him, and said" At last a known face! Oh, this people is very troublesome!"- She said.
- Why, did they molest you ?"- Kirk said.
- Well, yes and no! But very troublesome people are everywhere, now!- Janice said.
Kirk takes the suitcases, and with Janice takes another cab home.
- Who deserted ?"- Kirk asked.
- Juan Gonzalez, Salustio Venegas! They take another job in another spaceship. - She said, smiling.
- Well, they are free to come and go! "- Kirk replied.
- Yes, Captain; but, when are you coming to the ship? Or are you so attached to your family now, that you will never return to the space?"- Janice asked.
Kirk smiled but didn't answered the young woman; for one part, he was very attached to Maora and his daughters; and also, there was no one interested in to rent the ship.
- It `s beautiful, this city! A river, plenty of forested hills- are you happy with your family?"- Janice asked
- Yes, with my family I am happy- but all the while, I love to be traveling! "- Kirk replied.
- But you have traveled a lot! How many missions and flights have you in your curriculum?"- Janice asked.
- Some 390.- Kirk replied, as he was counting them since the beginning
They arrive to Kirk�s house, and Maora come out to salute them.
- Welcome to our home!"- She said to Janice.
- Thanks you!"- Janice said, smiling when seeing both girls - the daughters of Kirk- in the entrance.
They enter to the house, and Maora served a meal ; when eating, Kirk said:"- The "Maora" vessel is waiting for me. I need to have some investor, in order to set sails to whatever planet they choose."-
- And there is nobody interested ? Have you posted your vessel at the spaceport, at the holonews?-- Janice asked.
- Yes, but not very often, really."- Kirk said.
- I am here to help! Send me to post adds, Captain!"- Janice said, eagerly.
- Are you in love of space, dear?"- Maora asked.
- Oh, yes, Madam! I love to be in a ship among the stars! I really am alive when doing it.- Janice said, smiling.
Kirk post several adds that same day, with Janice at his side; they take a coffee at downtown Santiago, and she said:"- It `s amazing to see this quantity of people around! They seems to be without any hurry!"-
- Yes, because it `s eight o'clock in the evening; they are returning home from their works.- Kirk explained.
- Ah! Very interesting."- She said, more at leisure, now she has someone known at her side.
- So Lana has a bad time, out there?"- He asked.
- Yes! She fight with both men, asking them to wait for you! "- Janice said.
Kirk felt a pang in his chest- he really wasn't being a good captain anymore!
- Perhaps we get lucky and we receive some mission to fulfill to-morrow ! - Kirk said.
- I bet!"- Janice smile, taking his arm for a minute.
They return home a little later, and Maora said:"- You are going to sleep at our guests room; come and see where you will be."-
And Janice went after her, smiling all the time.
Kirk went to take a shower, and then to bed; he slept all night at ease...
When Janice wake up, she missed the 0 gravity field- and all her bones were aching; Maora enters the room and said:"- Breakfast is ready, Janice!"
- I'm coming!"- She said, and taking a shower, and putting her only city- dress, she went to the dining room.
- Oh, how good it smells!"- She told Maora.
- We have milk and cacao Raff! Or do you prefer coffee or tea?"- Maora asked.
- Milk and cacao will be fine- to change!"- Janice Icelon replied.
- And how did you slept?"- Maora asked.
- Fine! A little queer, of course- I am accustomed to be sleeping in 0 Gravity."- Janice said.
Janice tasted the toasts and the cup of cocoa; she asked about Kirk, and Maora told her he was accustomed to slept until late!
Kirk heard it from his bed, and jumped to the bath-room, where he takes a short shower, thinking in his image- he must show himself without blame!
He dress himself with fresh clothes and went to the dining- room.
- Hello, dames!"- She said, kissing Maora in her cheek. She smiled, and went to the kitchen, to fetch him the Cocoa Raff and toasts.
- Well, to-day we are going to see if our advertisements give some results! We need some action!"- Kirk said, banging the table.
- Yes, Captain."- Janice said, smiling feebly.
Maora come back, and put the cocoa cup and toasts in front of Kirk; he said:"- Wow! Smells good."�-
And he ate with appetite. Janis finished his cocoa, and said:"- This house is superb! Not a noise, and pure air!"
- Tell me, Janice: did other guys deserted the ship?"-
- No, Captain! But is our Commander Lana that refrain them to go! She is always telling you are going to come back in any minute! So they delay the departure for another week- and so on! "- Janice said.
- I will revise my emails right away! With one guy renting the ship, we can go!"- Kirk said, walking to his office. Janice followed him, and they saw there was no response whatsoever!
- Pity, but I will post in some newspapers too! There are lots of people- and important ones- who still reads newspapers."- Kirk said, calling to three of them by the telephone.
- This will cost me fifthteen thousands credits! But could be worthwhile!"- He muttered.
The ring bells and Maora attended; then, she walks into Kirk�s office, saying:"- There is a visit in your living room."
- I go there right away!"- Kirk said, and went there with Janice.
- Good morning, Captain."- Spock said.
- Spock! You here!"- Kirk smiled broadly, looking at his old ex Scientific Officer with open eyes.
- Yes! I read your add, last night, and as we are needing a fast ship and a bold captain, here I am to rent your services."- Spock said.
Janice was open mouthed, and Kirk gasped.
- Well, I`ll be damned!"- Kirk said, flabbergasted
- It will be very simply, Captain, and I can explain everything to you in scant words: we must spy on a governor who is seemingly betraying the Vulcan Empire and also the Federation- by extent. Several weapons of mass destruction has been designed ,along the years, by Earth and Vulcan civilizations; the Ferengi are buying them via our dubious governor- but we must know how many of the weapons has been sold, to whom, and with how many more in the bargain. "- Spock said.
- Really! A whole set of interrogations, who could us send in different cosmic directions! You need an Army, not my "Maora" little vessel, for that!"- Kirk said, gasping again.
- And you can have my services back, Captain! I have permission of the Starfleet- secretly, of course."- Spock said.
- And how many Credits are for me , in this?"- Kirk said, smiling wryly.
- Not less than 8 million credits- more, if we are successful."- Spock said.
- "We" are successful? How many certainty has you that I will accept you aboard?"- Kirk asked.
Spock rise his famous brow, and Kirk laughed.
- All right, you are in! We can depart right now!"- The Captain said.
- I need to call my superiors and also carry some artifacts on board of your vessel, Captain- that is, in Mars."- Spock said.
- You also know that?"- Janice said, amazed.
- Young lady, I need to know everything, in my position."- Spock said, stiffly.
After some more talk, Spock rise from his seat, saying:"- Well, Captain, the main objective is accomplished; I salute you, and we are to be seen again on board of the "Maora". I recommend you, Sir, to hasten things the more you can."
- I`ll be flying in no time to my vessel, Spock."- Kirk assured.
- Very well, then. Live long and prosper."- Spock said, and doing a stiff bow in direction of the ladies, he went out of the house.
- What a character!"- Janice said, with a sigh.
- Yes, he has been always like that- good to be a friend of him, now we were asking for a renter!"- Kirk said, and embraced Maora, who was looking very pale.
- What?"- Kirk asked of her.
- I am seeing this will be not just a tourist trip, my dear! This is high politics! Espionage!"- Maora assured.
Kirk rise his shoulders, saying:"- You are right! But who , in the Universe, were to pay eight million credits for a leisure trip?"
************************************
Chapter Two .
In Mars's Orbit .
- Fifteen days, and not a sign of Janice and Captain Kirk!"- Lana said, from his seat at the "Maora" ship.
- Why, are you nervous? They told us they were arriving in the "Nieder" vessel! Did that ship has arrived?"- Wlad Smirnoff asked.
- Of course! I haven't heard of them in fifteen days! "- Lana remarked.
- You know the trip takes more than that, in Passenger ships."- Wlad replied.
- Hum!"- Lana said, walking to her quarters; there, she seats at her radio-computer, and tried to establish contact with the " Nieder", who was a German liner.
Silkie Kiesant tapped at the door, and Lana opened it, saying:"- What do you want?"
- Oh, I see you are in the verge of a seizure!"- Silkie laughed, and seats in a chair.
Lana closed the door, and stumbled in her cot, saying:"- This eternal hours! Now I know he came, I cannot stand the delay!"-
- Twenty days are the common delay, Lana! Five days more- perhaps a little longer! Why are you so nervous?"- Silkie said.
- Guess I am afraid there could be some mistake somewhere, and Captain Kirk �s delay turns out to be eternal!"- She replied.
- Oh, the nerves are too strong in you! Perhaps a little visit to the Station Drugstore could ease them!"- Silkie said.
- Guess I must calm down; perhaps a little voyage to Mars- some shopping there?"- Lana proposed.
- I�ll be delighted! Perhaps a new dress- or two!"- Silkie said, with a smile.
- All right! I will tell Morian about it !"- Lana said, walking out of the room.
Silkie moved her head; Lana was the administrator at the "Maora", and now that the final days were in sight, she was not able to stand it!
**
At the "Nieder", Kirk was with Janice and Spock, plus a new Science Officer, Herr Frank Blankenhaus, who were elected by Spock saying he was briefed by the Vulcan in the present mission.
- Four days more, and we will be attached to the Mars Station! Good time is doing the captain!- Kirk told Spock
- Did you tell him something, Captain?"- Spock rise his brow.
- Well, something... a thousand credits for each day in advance!" - Kirk said, laughing.
Janice takes Kirk�s arm, saying:"- Captain, why do you not call Lana?"
- Well, I will! Lets go, guide me to the starradio!"- He replied.
Janice guided him to the star-radio of the "Nieder", and it was Morian who answered.
- Captain! Good to hear your voice!"- Morian Sarcovetiz replied.
- Morian! Where is Lana?"- Kirk asked.
- She is visiting Mars City! Lana was too nervous, Captain."- Morian advised.
- All right, if she calls you, tell her I am at 4 days delay! How are thing going, there?"- Kirk asked
- Fine, Captain! The crew is waiting for you."- Morian replied.
- Good! I am arriving with the full payments! So tell them we will have a big Luau there!"- Kirk said, and after some more phrases, hung up.
- And, did you talk with Lana?"- Janice asked him.
- No! She is in Mars- City, shopping! "- Kirk laughed.
Janice looked at him, with sadness, and said:"- Well, perhaps she was needing some clothes!"
That night, Kirk went to the Control Room, and talked with Captain Allende, saying:"- Well, Captain! Did we earn some more dug , to day?"
Allende, a man in his middle age, smiled, saying:"- One day is enough, Captain! We are too close to Mars- no need to accelerate now- the pull of the planet is doing that for us!"-
- All right! Keep on doing the good work!"- Kirk told him, patting his shoulder- and he remind there for quite a while, looking the red planet by a screen- the red planet, with the scar in its middle...
After that, he went to his cabin, undressed, and went inside of his bed, using 1 gravity force, as he was accustomed to slept as in Earth... Someone knocked at the door, and he opened suit.
- You!"- Kirk asked, as he was looking at Janice.
_- I heard something interesting, Captain ! May I come in?"- She asked, in a husky voice.
- Please, enter into my quarters!"- He said, looking at the corridor- nobody was in sight...
After she passed inside, he close the door with a swift movement, and said:" Lets seat, first."
They seat in a couple of chairs, and she said:"- I discovered there is a conspirator onboard!"
- Don�t tell me! How did you knew it?"- Kirk asked, fully interested.
- I heard the captain say there is a big insurance paper for this trip, and if a fire of some other hazard should intervene and busted the ship, he was going to be happy to collect the money and say good-bye to be traveling hither and thither!"- Janice said.
- Bad thing, indeed!"- Kirk said, taking her hand.
- I knew I was right coming here! What are you going to do, Captain?"- Janice asked him.
He played with her fingers, saying:" There is some amount of danger for you, if you return to your own cabin! Why don't you slept here, and to-morrow we could be doing something to prevent sabotage?"- Kirk said.
- All right! Oh, you really make me feel protected!"- She said, embracing him.
They went to sleep, and after six hours, Janice went out of the room, yawning. In the corridor she meets Captain Allende, who asked: - And how did you slept?"-
- Oh, I had a wonderful dream!"- Janice said, laughing, and went her way. Allende looked at her, confounded
Kirk , in his bed, was beaten up- he stay in bed until noon, and when he woke up, Janice was at her side, in the bed, profoundly asleep. Her body- white as cream- was hot at his side- that hotness was guilty of to wake him up.
- Oh, lady!- Kirk said, embracing her...
When Janice wake up, she missed the 0 gravity field- and all her bones were aching; Kirk whispered her:"- Have you lunched, darling?"
- Not yet!"- She said, kissing him lightly.
- Should we go to lunch now?"- He whispered.
- Fine!"- Janice reply, and takes a cold shower, in order to order her feelings- all was tipsy-turvy up there in her head!
Kirk dressed himself and went out, without waiting for her!
- This women are my weakness!"- He mumbled, and went to eat something; there Janice arrives, saying:"- Why don't you wait for me?"
- Oh, pardon me! I forgot."- Kirk said, offering a seat next to him. Some other passengers were eating there, and salute them.
- Guess I will eat smashed potatoes and eggs- all ersatz, I suppose!"- She said with a sigh, and asked that to the food dispenser. With the plate in front of her, she begun nibbling at the food.
- What, are you not hungry?"- Kirk asked; he was eating his second dish altogether.
- I am hungry for you!!- She whispered, looking straight at him.
- This hungry you have, has to wait! "- He smiles.
- Why?"
- We are not in a safe position, here! We must be in the "Maora" first."- Kirk said.
- At the "Maora"? Don't you remember you have an affair with Lady Lana Bickford?"- Janice Icelon asked.
- Oh, really! "- Kirk smashed his forehead, as if really forgotten...
- Don't tell me you was not remembering!"- Janice laughed out loud.
- Quiet! Too much happiness means too much sex!".- Kirk refused to be as happy as her.
- Well! Look who's talking!" - She said, making a grimace.
- You must behave, little woman! - Kirk said, with a nod.
Spock appears, saying:"- We are close to our target, Captain! Good morning, Lady Janice."
- Good morning to you, too!"- She said, and went out of the dining room.
- Don't pay attention to her! She is in a bad moment, now."- Kirk said.
- Don't tell me you ...?"- Spock half questioned him.
- Yes; the flesh is weak."- Kirk said, finishing his third plate.
- I think I will take a little tea. "- Spock said, asking for that beverage...
- When at the ship, we are going to have a lot of work, Spock, I recommend you to begun revising the fuel and the state of the ship, in general."- Kirk said.
- I will, Captain,"- Spock said, sipping a little tea.
- I will have a row with the ladies, for sure! Two ladies in love of the same guy must be forever quarreling."- Kirk said.
- Why, did the other woman already is in the know?"- Spock rise his brow.
- Not yet! But I guess this will erupt really fast! As always did."- Kirk said.
- Well, guess you were in need."- Spock whispered.
- You can say that again! I cannot bear a day without a soft caress! "- Kirk laughed.
- Well, Captain, I will depart, now. I am doing a map of where we are going. "- Spock said.
- You can go now. "- Kirk said, standing up, and he goes to his quarters; there was Janice too, and she said:"- You leave your ugly companion alone?"
- He is working now! Must be all ready to our departure."- Kirk said, leaning on her.
- Oh, you are a heavy man!"- She laughed, and both bodies went down on the bed.
- I guess you are going to quarrel with Lana?"- Kirk asked.
- Why did I? I am sure you will tell her about us! You love me now, and she belongs to the past."- Janice told him, very seriously.
- Of course!"- Kirk said, embracing her. But in his inner mind, he was thinking the skinny little Janice will had to be contented with those three days of love and passion aboard the "Nieder", as Lana was superb, and she knows when to shut up- specially when he was visiting Maora, at planet Earth- this woman, Janice, sure thing would had obliged him to carry her to Earth, and there she would had told Maora all about them - if she would had been previously loved!
So he was loving her with passion for the rest of the voyage, much to her liking!
When Spock said:"- Captain, we had arrived; the "Nieder" is locking to the Mars Station in this minute", Kirk calls Janice, and said:"- Janice, our love trip is over; all we share, will remind in my heart as a really beautiful thing, but now I am going to command the "Maora" vessel, where my woman will be... Lana. "
Janice looks at her as not understanding his words, and suddenly she beats him in the face, yelling .
- Stay put!"- Kirk told her, pushing Janice away.
- Damn brute!"- She yelled, and run to her own cabin...
- You were awfully rude."- Spock told him.
- Must be like this! She will react, in time, and so I could be myself again."- Kirk said, smiling .
- Shall we go to the Mars Station? "- Spock invited him, so they went to the lock, and saw Captain Allende, saying good-bye to some passengers.
- So long , Captain Allende! And thanks you for the trip."- Kirk told him.
- Captain Kirk! It was an honor to me to be in the same ship with you! Hope you could realize I am one of your fans."- Captain Allende said, handshaking him.
- I guess I will bear that in mind!"- Kirk smiled. For his part, Spock just make a short nod in Captain Allende`s direction, and went out by the lock.
Kirk went after him, and soon they were aboard the big Mars Station;
they were saluted by Lana Bickford and Pedro Truco.
- Hello, Captain ! Long time waiting for you!"- Lana told him, and Kirk embraced the woman; she was superb.
- I present you Mr. Spock, a former crew member of one of my spaceships; he will be of our crew, apart of the renter of the same."- Kirk said.
- I am Doctor Pedro Truco; I am familiarized with Vulcan anatomy. "- Truco told Spock.
- Fine, Doctor; I guess I will rely on that, if I feel sick."- Spock told the Doctor of the Maora spaceship.
They walked by the Mars Station, where there were more people by the corridors and halls, as passengers were waiting to go to the surface of the planet in the shuttles, or waiting for other passenger ships who were scheduled to come.
- The ship is ready to depart, James! Just some more food and we will be sailing."- Lana told him.
- Good. "- He said, looking at Janice Icelon, who was walking now with them, and eyeing him with hate.
When at the ship, Kirk saluted them all, and Lana said:"- Captain Kirk we all were passably and patiently waiting for you! Weeks upon weeks we waited- some of us departed. The first officer Juan Gonzalez and the Science Officer Salustio went to other ships- we must replace them."- Lana said.
- I have a new first officer, and is Mr. Spock, a Vulcan who worked with me in Starfleet. So we must search for a Science officer and we will be ready."- Kirk said.
- At the Mars Orbital Station there are list of able crewmen to choose. I recommend you to replace the Science officer here, Captain."- Lana said.
- I will take your advice."- Kirk said, smiling to her.
- When are we departing, Sir?"- Wlad Smirnoff asked.
- As soon as we have our food in storage- good are the food processors, but without fresh food we would be bored stiff."- Kirk replied.
Then he went by the corridors and halls, looking everything with a keen eye, followed by Spock and Smirnoff, who answered any question. Then, Kirk said:"- I will provide the ship with food. And I will ask for a new Science officer. "
And so, he went to the Management of the Mars Station, where he made the necessary arrangements; that same day he obtains both things needed: food and the new crew member; he choose from three who was able to work; he choose Mr. Frank Blankenhaus, a German , who seems to him the most suitable. Frank Blankenhaus was a tall and stout man, with several Diplomas who puts him as the best Science Officer Kirk as ever seen- even superior to Mr. Spock.
- I served for three years at Starfleet- as a Science Officer. "- Blankenhaus told him.
- And why did you quit?"- Kirk asked.
- The ship I was in suffered a demolishing attack, Sir, so I was rescued with some others in the Shoulders of Orion. Then, we were sent to Earth, to wait for further designations- as a year was elapsed waiting, I prefer to quit and came to Mars, to see if I could find a job."- Blankenhaus said.
- Guess you love to be in deep space?"- Kirk asked.
- And aboard a ship."- Blankenhaus added.
- Fine! We are going to have a good trip this time- and after that, I cannot assure you of any other voyage, as we are a small ship - always waiting for a rich tourist or something like that." - Kirk explained.
- I understand. I will be very pleased to obey your orders, Captain Kirk.-"- Blankenhaus said.
- Well! Your payment will be the usual one - for the office."- Kirk said.
- Fine."- Blankenhaus reply.
But when arriving to the ship, Spock said:"- I find Doctor Pedro Truco unsuitable for the post, Captain . "
- Why did you say that?"- Kirk asked in surprise.
- I find him in a strange position with a Eman! So you better replace him ."- Spock said.
- I will talk with him."- Kirk said, but Doctor Truco was not in the spaceship- and when asking at the Mars Station, the Administration told him Doctor Truco abandoned the Station on route to the surface of Mars.
- Well, I`ll be damned!"- Kirk said.
- Would you permit me to find some other Doctor for our expedition, Sir?"- Spock asked.
- By all means! "- Kirk said, knocking a table.
Soon another doctor was in, a fat and amiable being, in his forties; his name was Silkie Kiesant, and it was a Vulcan.
That night Kirk made a feast, with some other people from the Mars Station present; he danced with Lana , seeing Janice Icelon danced with several handsome men from the Station- she was always staring at Kirk, who was very nervous because of that.
- What happened with you and the Icelon woman, in your trip?"- Lana ends by saying.
- Nothing at all!- Kirk replied, hastily.
- Oh!"- She said, and not other word more she uttered, but she has already make her point- saying- without words- that she could very well guess what was the matter!
Luckily, Janice departed with one of the young fellows in the middle of the party, and so the air became less dense.
At last, Kirk and Lana went to sleep, at the best cabin at the "Maora".
- Wish you could had spent less days away."- She told him, undressing.
- So did I, but the explanation is simple: I have two daughters in Earth, and I feel his father."- He said.
- Yes, I understand- a home life, with woman and child. Pity you are one and many men in one."- She said, getting inside of the bed.
- Is my destiny! Space is for me- and of course, I cannot deny I like to be at home- in Earth- looking how my daughters grows."- Kirk said.
- Well, dear! You had that already! Now you are mine!"- Lana said, and embrace him.
**********
CHAPTER THREE .
THE TRIP.
- We are ready to depart, Sir."- Spock said from his post. They all were wearing a green uniform Spock has bought in the Mars Station, who give a military look for all of them- not being so, but giving a strength feeling to the ones who serves -in the past- at the Starfleet.
- Unlock the ship from the Station, and set course to the Phoenix Constellation."- Kirk commanded.
The metallic sound clashed out there, and the "Maora" went astray for some seconds; then, using the collateral thrusters, the ship begun to augmenting the distance to the Station Mars and all the ships that clustered the Area.
- Stay at your posts! We are not free yet!"- Kirk commanded, as he saw some crew members drifting by some corridors- he has a multi-camera attached to his console.
The "Maora" went past some huge Cargo Ships, who dwarfed his size tenfold. The planet Mars has huge amounts of iron who was being shipped to Earth, where that metal was in great need.
Half an hour afterwards, Spock accelerated the ship, in direction to Uranus, who was in the direct path of the far away Phoenix Constellation, in that specific time and space. Always accelerating, they were grabbed by the Gravity Force of the Giant of the Solar System, and using Mathematics, the Vulcan makes Uranus�s gravity pull them and throw them -afterwards- to the far reaches of space- almost shooting past Pluto at great speed.
- Pluto Base saying Good Bye!"- Lana Bickford said, with the earphones in place.
- Tell them we salute them and hope we came back soon!"- Kirk ordered.
- All right, Captain!"- Lana Bickford said, with a gentle smile.
- All set for the Hyper space Jump!"- Pilot Pavel Adrian Jackson said.
- All personnel at your posts ! Five minutes to the Jump!"- Kirk said by the Intercom.
The "Maora" jumped to the Hyper space and then the lights gets dimmed- they were as in deep waters for twenty minutes, and suddenly they reappeared in normal space, with sun 504 in front of them.
- Kappa in sight, Sir!"- Spock said, with rise eyebrow.
- Pilot, calculate course to Kappa 3 !"- Kirk commanded. Three minutes later, Pavel Adrian Jackson said:"- Course set, Commander! "
The ship turns in space, and flew in a parabolic flight to Kappa 3, and after 39 turns around the globe, the ship became stabilized in a stationary orbit- close to Base Kappa, who was radioing them all the time.
- All set to lock unto the Kappa Base, Sir.!"- Pilot Pavel Adrian said.
- All right! Lock when ready! All personnel stand by and alert!"- Kirk said.
The "Maora", using the peripheral thrusters, locked into the station, and soon some officers from it came walking inside the corridors of the "Maora " vessel. They were humans, using light helmets, and wearing stunning rifles.
- Who is in command here?"- A guy with several medals asked at the Main Deck.
- I am; Captain James Kirk, from Earth."- Kirk said.
- I am Sergeant Barracula; this are my men; we are here to inspect your ship- there has been several terrorist attacks, and now we must inspect every vessel that came from outer space, no matter how small."- The Sergeant said.
- All right, Sergeant, we obey every order you may want to give us here! Proceed at will."- Kirk said, and the Sergeant and his men- who were 20- begun searching for every part of the ship, finding nothing dangerous.
After two hours - time who takes them to search all the vessel- Sergeant Barracula said:"- All clear here, Captain! I will leave here a document , stating your ship is clean and able to go wherever you choose fit, in the vicinity of our Kappa system. Are you satisfied?"-
- Yes, Sergeant, Thanks you."- Kirk said, from his post.
The Sergeant leaves a plastic sheet with the Authorization, and departed with his retinue. Kirk hand the authorization to Lana Bickford, saying:- From now on, when asking for permissions, you send this authorization via starradio."-
- All right, Captain."- She said, handling down the paper.
Then, Kirk went to his cabin, laying on the bed for a short while- they had the authorization, the ship was on his way to Kappa 3, and Spock must should be well prepared to his spying operation- or they will be all in jail for life!
Lana went inside his cabin, saying:"- Oh, you are here! What are you doing?"
- Resting, of course."- He said. She lie at his side, saying:"- Good for the nerves, eh?"
- Of course."- He smiled.
- Leni Riefensthal was the first documental director in Nazi German era, and she renew the documental film with his developments in every area.- " Lana said.
- Oh? I guess I read that in some History book- long time ago."- Kirk said.
- I want to film every aspect of our voyage here! I only need a good camera."- She said, embracing him.
- It is a fine idea! To film everything- especially me!"- He said, laughing.
- Why, of course! You are my hero!"- Lana said, smiling gently.
- We are going to buy a good pair of cameras for you- at Kappa cities! "- He promised.
- Good! I will be the best second to Leni ."- Lana said, in a delicious whisper.
- Captain, we are arriving to Kappa 3!"- A voice said from the console in the next little room.
- Coming!"- He said, from the bed, and they both went to the Main Cabin.
- Kappa in front of us."- Pavel said.
- Good. Make a turn around the planet- we must see it all."- Kirk asked of the pilot.
The "Maora" went their first turn of the planet twice as fast as the second turn, and soon they were asked- by an Army Station in Orbit- to choose a stationary orbit.
So they stopped over Checovburg City , in the southern hemisphere. Spock and Kirk, at Main Cabin, was talking.
- My mission here will be a to spy on Twerk Tuwlo- The governor of Kappa 3 who is seemingly betraying the Vulcan Empire and also the Federation- by extent. Several weapons of mass destruction has been designed ,along the years, by Earth and Vulcan civilizations; the Ferengi are buying them via our dubious governor- but we must know how many of the weapons has been sold, to whom, and with how many more in the bargain."
- So you must search for Ferengis near the Governor Twerk Tuwlo !"- Kirk said.
- Of course- in other words- we must have an eye on the Governor Twerk Tuwlo�s friends!"- Spock said.
- And he is in that city down there?"- Kirk asked.
- Yes, Sir. Checovburg City- with five trillion inhabitants. Mainly a Megalopolis, as you can see- eighty square kilometers wide and a hundred square kilometers long- two spaceports."- Spock said.
- How come? Vulcan colonies greater than Vulcan cities at the mother planet?"- Kirk asked.
- Clonization, Sir. "- Spock moved his head sideways.
- I understand! "- Kirk said. Involuntarily , he gives a shudder- he wasn't accustomed to those scientific bravados; people looking sickeningly similar one another - gives a lot of room for cheating!
- We know where the Governor is- so we are going there as technical people - we have a Contract with the government- doing the air conditioning in several governmental buildings."- Spock said.
- Good! When are you going?- Kirk asked.
- In seven hours more! Me and Frank Blankenhaus, who is the most suitable, being on the Starfleet."- Spock said.-
- Fine. How we communicate with you?"- Kirk asked.
- I will call you from the Hotel- and told you the phone number. Also, we could be spotted with a little device implanted on our skins, so you could beam us up , in case of an extreme dangerous situation."- Spock said.
- I find it very possible! So the implant must be worked out. Well, Spock, when in trouble or in need of assistance, I am available- if you want my help- or any other at our ship - you just call us! All , of course, for a little more dug."- Kirk offered.
- I will be calling you, then, if in need. "- Spock said.
Seven hours later, in the shuttle 2, they went down- and after refueling, the Shuttle 2 came back to the "Maora " vessel.
- And what are we going to do ,meanwhile Mr. Spock is down there?"- Lana asked .
- Guess we could wait- and perhaps made a rehaul in orbit."- Kirk said.
- You could put some new devices on board!"- Lana said.
- Yes, but not here! We should go to Mars or Earth! There are newer artifacts there- here, they have things that in Earth are overdue."- Kirk explained.
- Fine! So we have a little vacation for ourselves!"- She said, kissing him.
*********
Spock presented himself - and Frank Blankenhaus- to Dean Argeson, the Manager of the Air Conditioning firm- saying:"- I am Spock- guess you know my mission here."
Dean Argeson, a thin man of forty-eight, nodded, saying:" I have my orders! You two have full cooperation inside our little Firm. I suggest you begun working with my team at the Governor�s house, and look where you could spy better. "
- I will go to-morrow with the first shift! What do you say of that?"- Spock said.
- I will cooperate as fully as I can! The governor has his office at the right wing of the building- and you could go there easily, with our teams, who are working unobtrusively but deep unto his quarters- by ceilings and cellars! So , you will have time to implant several headphones."- Dean Argeson informed.
- Fine! And now, we need a good but not luxury hotel- do you know some decent one?"- Spock said.
- Of course! I know of one who is cheap and with few tourist in it- the "Lion"; and it`s located at downtown.- The governor said.
- Good! Give me the address and we will depart."- Spock asked.
After a while, in a taxi- car, they arrive to the "Lion Hotel", who occupied half a building- and the Manager was a bald old man , who said:"- Two rooms- one next to the another! With bathrooms."-
- Yes, we are here for a short while- doing some works."- Spock said.
- Here are the keys! We have no room service and no Restaurant at the Hotel; so you must take your meals elsewhere."- The Manager said.
- No problem! -- Spock said, taking the keys from the table.
With Frank they went to the street, and meanwhile they were walking, Spock said:"- We are going to take a look at the Governor Twerk Tuwlo`s building- for the outside! To-morrow we are going in, with the Air Conditioning firm."
- Guess we could buy some headphones and stuff- to do the job."- Frank said.
- I have some gadgets at my luggage. Guess we could have interesting conversations recorded very soon. "- Spock said.
They arrive to the building- with 290 stories high.
- A fine building! And very guarded one."- Frank said, looking some guards on the spot.
- Yes! We must be very careful!"- Spock recommended.
They went to a Coffee shop, and sipping the local coffee, Frank said:"- The air and smell here are different to Earth."
- Don`t tell me you still remember that smell!"- Spock scuffed.
- Well, it`s the one with which I measure the others! And this has a piquant flavor."- Frank added.
- Good for you! I remember Vulcan air; hot, dry, sometimes hard to breathe."- Spock recognized.
- Guess your world is an old one. -
- It is! Our civilization has 23.000 years, meanwhile yours has not more than 4.000!- Spock said.
- Sometimes scientists say we have more than a hundred! But the reality is we must have no more than 10.000 and possibly less than 6.000; brains must have been very torpid in those remote eras."- Frank said.
- Enough of this; now, to our task: we are going to seem technical workers; we must have clothes and also get inside the building with the rest of the working crew- we will have a nominal chief, and then we are going to spy."
- Seems interesting; we could go there to be indoctrinated already!"- Frank suggested.
- Yes; I have an appointment for to-morrow at five o clock! The crew will enter the building at eight."- Spock said.
- And why not to-day?"- Frank asked.
- The machinery moves like they want! We better assume they have better reasons to be doing things like they want."- Spock said.
- Patience, then!"- Frank said.
They bought some newspapers to read and have a little knowledge of what was the "news" and preoccupation at that city; then, they went to the Hotel, to read and be ready.
They slept until five, and Mr. Gorbert came to their Hotel, to brief them .
- We are going in with eighteen men to-day- with you included. We are going to play it safe: just a little job to-day, installing a 19 meters long air duct- you are going to be able to help there- nothing difficult. If any asking is made to you, by the Security personnel, I will be there to help."
- Good! We are going with our cameras."- Spock said.
- Let me see them."- Gorbert said; he was a sturdy man of forty years old. When seeing the machines- who were almost invisible- he laughed, saying:"- They will believe you are carrying pins!"
- Hope so."- Spock said.
They went to the Air Conditioning plant, and they were presented to the other members of the team, as helping hands and students.
- A little older for students!" - One of them laughed, and the others smiled- they were accustomed to the queer situations in that job!
At eight they all went in the building- pass the Security officer- and begun to work. They had a special room where to store the tools and materials- there they take what was needed for the day�s work , and begun to climb to the ceilings- after three hours of solid work, Gorbert approaches Spock, saying in a whisper:" - Now we are ready to do whatever you think fit! They lost interest in our movements for the day!"
- Good! Let`s make some implants in the key rooms!"- Spock said, and with Frank and Gorbert they worm they way to the Committee rooms, where they inserted several little cameras, who will record any conversation whatsoever.
"- Where to the Governor Twerk Tuwlo`s office?"- Spock asked.
- It is very dangerous to creep there! Is it necessary?"- Gorbert asked, loosing his nerve.
- It is imperative.!- Spock asserted.- So, they went there, guided by the trembling Gorbert- down and between thick walls, the metal air duct permits them to be in the roof of the Governor`s main office.
Spock inserted a couple of spy cameras, and said:"- We can go now."
They return to the main group of workers, and help until the end of the day`s work.
They went out in the Van, and soon they were at the Air Condition Plant; Spock said:"- Mr. Gorbert, you has been a good help for us! I will made a good report in your behalf."
- Thanks you! I never sweat that much in my entire life!"- Gorbert said, with a sigh.
Once Spock and Frank were at their rooms at the Hotel, Spock activated the remote cameras, and received all the information of the past hour in his personal computer- Frank and Spock heard and saw everything that happened at the several rooms in the Governor`s place,and then Spock said:"- Nothing important- the Governor Twerk Tuwlo was absent. We will keep on recording and seeing all what is going on there- until we succeed."-
- Fine.!"- Frank said.
For the rest of the night they were listening, and when the day begin, Spock said:"- Well, at least we tested the equipment."
- And it is doing O.K.!"- Frank acknowledged.
- The machines could record several hundred hours without attendance; we need not to be glued to the receivers! We need some rest, too. "
- Yes, Mr. Spock; I am almost sleeping already!"- Frank said.
- You can go to sleep now, Mr. Blankenhaus!" - Spock replied.
Frank went to his room, and fully dressed, he lie on his bed, getting asleep in no time!
For his part, Spock listened several hours more, and went to sleep...
Frank awake at three in the afternoon; he takes a shower, eat a few sandwiches, and went to see- at Spock`s room- the film recorded by the spy cameras.
He saw Spock sleeping at his bedroom, and went in tip-toe to the machine; he takes the earphones, and click the system on; he begin listening and also seeing the rooms, choosing where he sees people gathered- and the Governor was there, in his room office!
He was talking with some high member of his staff, and all was running around some big investment and the profits they were receiving.
Frank put in write the names and figures- and discovered the Governor was dealing with high prices machinery for some Hospital- named " Lavin"- and how he was receiving some more money in each of the items!
After some while, the clerk went out, and a woman of about 30 years old come in; he salutes her by the name of "Lidia", saying:"- Please, give me a cup of tea, Lidia!"
- Right away, Sir.!"- She said, walking to a cabinet, where she extracted old fashioned utensils, and begin making the brew for her boss...
- We earned a few Credits to -day!"- The governor said.
- Good for you!"- The woman said.
- Lidia! You know you have a share of my profits! Why the cynic remark?"-- The Governor asked.
- Well, seeing you have the major share..."- She said, smiling.
The Governor takes the cup of tea, and also her hand, saying:"- You will accompany my in a trip to Earth! We will have fun there, I promise you!"
- You always are inviting me, but when are we going?"- Lidia replied.
- Soon! I have 30 million Credits in the Bank! With this new deals, I am going to duplicate the amount! "- The governor Twerk Tuwlo said.
- I will ask of you a date- a specify day of a specific month! I will not tolerate this nightmare of incertitude!"- She said, looking at the Governor , who was sipping his tea.
- Come here!"- He commanded, and she went, seating in his legs.
- This is a good girl!"- He smiled, and begin kissing the woman, who suddenly became a volcano of passion! In scant five minutes, she leaves Twerk Tuwlo in a state of frenzy who was astonished to see.
- Why, are we seeing a Porno film?"- A voice came from the back of Frank.
- Mr. Spock! We have the man already! A full confession of sorts! This man is a corrupted governor!"- Frank said.
Spock looked at the Eros situation , and after the end, he said:"- We will carry this film to the proper authorities- but we must see the fat fish : the
Ferengi!"
- We hasn�t a Ferengi yet! But at this pace, soon we will!"- Frank said.
Spock and Frank were busy recharging the recorders at their place, and in seven days they had lots of incriminations to do ; but no Ferengi.
- I will send all this data as soon as we could! By now, we must keep on spying- I will go to a dancing party where the Governor will be the Guest of Honor! "
- In disguise?"- Frank asked.
- Just my ears!"- Spock informed.
- And me?"- Frank asked.
- You could take the day free."- Spock said.
- I wish you could give me some Credits- if I am going to be off- duty."- Frank replied.
- Very well."- Spock said, and afterwards he give Frank Blankenhaus some hundreds Credits- from the Science Officer own wages.
It was the morning of a cloudy day; Frank went out of the department for the first time on his own- when walking by the crowded cloned streets, he was amazed to think in what was his life in those days: spying for the Vulcans full time! He was not particularly interested in to be a spy; but as a Science Officer, he was obliged to do whatever necessary- inside the regulations- to maintain in the job...
He went into a Coffee shop; the place was almost deserted, and a couple of attendants were serving the infusion. The lady come to his place, asking what was he was willing to eat and drink.
- Just a plain coffee cup, please."- Frank told the lady; she was a cloned one- the lean and tall specimen.
- In just a minute, Sir."- She said, looking at him with her brown eyes.
He saw her doing her job- nicely and fast. After the cup of coffee arrives to his place, she smiled, saying:"- Pardon my curiosity, Sir, but are you new in town?"
- Yes, I am coming from Earth."- Frank acknowledged the lady.
- Earth! What a wonderful place that planet must be! I was asking you as my brother has a aerotaxi, and he can serves you as a guide in town- there are several museums, expositions of Art, and old replicas of several cultures- and if you are prone to dance and music, he can also carry you to interesting Dancing Halls."- She offered.
- I have just one day off- wish you could show me around!"- Frank smiled.
- I am... working now- and I am not too learned as a Guiding person myself!"- She laughed.
- And your name is?"
- Aline.
- Aline! Well, Aline, you should be paid in advance, if you want to guide me to those wonderful places you have here- I can wait until you finish your turn."- Frank Blankenhaus said.
- I will think about it- do you want some cookies now?"- She asked, blushing.
- Yes; bring me those cookies."- Frank replied.
When Aline come back, she said:"- They are recently cooked."
- Tastes good."- Frank said, after he ate one. She went away, to attend to another client- when finished the cookies, Frank stand up, and went to pay at the cash register.
- You can come here in one hour more- I asked the rest of the day off."- Aline said, meekly.
- I will be here in an hour, then."- Frank said, paying and walking out of the Coffee shop...
When outside, he asked himself if he was doing the right thing- the lady was very interesting in herself- but a romance in one day wasn�t his idea of a proper thing- so he asserted himself the notion he was just touring the city- and nothing else.
One hour later, she was in front of the Coffee shop, waiting- he saw her from a distance- she was using a straight green dress, with a white hat on her head- the usual costume in planet Kappa Three.
TOURING THE CITY.
They went to the National Museum- a big place, where Aline said:"- It has all the creatures of the known Universe, their principal cities depicted and their languages heard, if so wanted. There is also a Section on Literature."
They visited all the Sections and Frank asked the virtual Curators and Guides about anything he became curious about. The "men" and "women" in the plastic panels replied talking or - and - showing them whatever was asked.
They seated at a Snack Bar, and takes tea and some biscuits.
- And where did you lived, at Earth?"- Aline asked.
- Father has a cottage in the Black Forest. He is Forest Keeper, there."
- Oh, how beautiful ! Here we have several forests with wild animals - and lots of them are from Earth."- Aline said.
From there, they went to an Arcade Hall, where people was betting to some machines- Aline said:"- It`s a pity they all think they are going to get out from here as rich as Pinochet; but they are wrong, as usually they went out as poor as they get in."
- And you abhor of this betting?"- Frank asked.
- I didn�t like to bet- because if I win, I will be compelled to bet in other occasions, loosing all the earnings and more."- She said, smiling.
- Let`s get out of here, then!"- Frank Blankenhaus said.
They promenade near the Spacedrome, and they saw how the big shuttles come and go with their hulls full of cargo and passengers.
- Humanity at its best! We had spread into a hundred suns already! "- Frank said, touching her head.
- Why are you sad? Are you so lonely in your ship, not a companion- or a girl- friend?"- Aline asked.
- No friends and no mate for me- I am working my way into the Starfleet! If I married some day, it will be not with a Starfleet member."- Frank said.
She blushed suddenly, and out of breath, said:"- We can go to a Theater, if you want."
- Let�s go there!"- He said, taking her hand - and she said nothing, but after a while, she takes back her hand- they climbed unto a aerotaxi, and went downtown. In a big megabuilding, they enter a big theater, where living actors performed old and new plays- lots of plays where to choose, as the theaters were a- plenty.
- A music play could be ? I prefer the musical ones."- Aline explained.
- It will be a nice thing to see- and hear." - Frank said.
So they went inside, and saw the play- who lasted for two solid hours; the music sounds strange to Frank`s hears, and he maintain one of her hands in his right one- and she was blushed all the time.
When going out, she said:"- I guess you are tired now! It`s 21. 30 hours now, and I must went home."
- All right, it has a good evening! May I leave you at your home?"- Frank asked.
- But you are strange in town! You will get lost!"- Aline said.
- I can take an Aerotaxi back to the Hotel."- Frank replied.
- Yes, but... I prefer we depart in here! I can guide you to a aerotaxi. - Aline said.
- Think we are going to depart for ever! I will see you no more ."- Frank said, taking her by the shoulders. She gasped, and said:"- Destiny could reunite us again! Perhaps you can have another day- and we could be visiting places again?"-
- I see it very difficult. Well, good bye, Aline! You has been a wonderful company, for me."- Frank said.
Soon, he was traveling to the Hotel, with an empty feeling inside. ..
Spock was absent- so Frank looked unto the recorded videos- seeing nothing, as the Governor was not in his office that day.
At 23.03 hours, Spock arrived to the Hotel- and going to Frank�s suite, he said:"- We have a Ferengi alright! His name is Mirsec ; I heard some of the conversation- he is asking more weapons to the Governor! And as he has a new shipment of those lethal artifacts, soon he will be delivering those weapons to the Ferengi!"-
- The main thing is, then, to know when and where the transaction will be donned."- Frank said.
- Exactly; we will work on that- helped by the videos . "- Spock said.
So, in the next few days, they were glued to the screens, and then they heard the date and hour !
- I will ask for help !- Spock said.
- To the Captain Kirk?"- Frank asked.
- Not him! I will ask help to the Vulcan fleet! They could send the guards in a -plenty!"- Spock remarked.
Using the Transporter, they were beamed up- and when at the Maora, Spock send a Starradio message to the Vulcan Headquarters.
- I will send you a warship- they will be arriving to the planet in two days!"- The great Obsri replied to the request.
(The Obsri was a Commander of the Vulcan fleet and a hard chaser of butterflies in Orienban III).
Spock rise his famous eyebrow, and told Kirk:"- They are going to send a warship this way; you could see how Vulcan Starfleet deals with traitors."
- Guess it will be like Starfleet (Earth Space Fleet) does!"- Kirk smiled.
- I am sure you are sure."- Spock said, departing to the planet with Frank- they were spying on the Governor the 23 hours of the Kapaa day).
They saw how the Governor received the Ferengi at his office, and how they paid him with several deposits in his credit card; all due recorded, Spock said:"- With this the Governor will be in jail for many years- and the Ferengi will be punished economically."
- Justice! "- Frank smiled, thinking in how many governments in the past stole everything but the flag, and went unpunished.
Spock sensed that, and said:"- I guess you are thinking we are some kind of Quijotes! But ,nevertheless, this kind of operations are needed to clean -in a little but useful way- the body of the Vulcan colonies."
- Absolutely right."- Frank said.
- We have read about Earth History- there were several countries who did serious unjust evils unto others who were weaker! Take, for example, the war the President Bush Junior did against Afghanistan in 2002, and to Iraq, in 2003: revenge for a couple of toppled buildings who some Saudi Arabs demolished! Afghanistan was ruled -before the war machinery of USA arrives- by some religious crackpots- bad governments, but doing the basics; after the invasion and bombing of the USA, Afghanistan reversed to a Feudal territory, where little "Warlords" takes patches of the land for themselves! Of course, it was not a "liberation war" that USA did there (as they said in the time) , but a stupid retaliation unto people who never sets foot in America! Then, when in 2003 the USA machinery of war invaded Iraq, supposedly to toppled the government of Sadam Husein- former allied of USA, and good buyer of their SAMOS and other weaponry USA puts in his hands, together with England, who also invaded to toppled the government (England was selling them Viruses Laboratories), the end- result was the same as in Afghanistan: a demolished infrastructure, no police, no Army, insufficient food- but the oil wells firmly in possession of USA industries! And of course, the Bush family -previously- was also in business with Sadam and the oil production in Iraq! So, in the later case, the "war of liberation" was ,first, an invasion of the most strong Army in the World, and secondly, a robbery of the oil wells- all due explained with beautiful words from USA government!"
- Yes, Mr. Spock, I read all that in first grade! I am fully aware the injustice was champion in all of Earth History- and I am ready to acknowledge the matter keeps living in our society to-day!"- Frank said.
- Oh, then we agreed!"- Spock said.
- In every detail!"- Frank smiled.
Two days elapsed, the Vulcan starship appeared; the seven shuttles of the vessel was deployed and soon the scared governor Twerk Tuwlo was in a cell, aboard the VULCAN warship.
- You deserve a medal, Mr. Spock!"- Captain Tu`rul said to Spock, in the main cabin of the Vulcan Starship.
- Thanks you; perhaps you could intervene unto the High Command for it."- Spock said, stiffly.
- I will! We are going to put a military governor here- care to be him?"- Captain Tu`rul said.
- I will accept, if asked."- Spock said, eyes ablazing with pride.
- Then I will ask Headquarters for it! Of course, you must choose between the medal and the governance!"- Captain Tu�rul said.
- I choose the government of Kappa 3, of course!"- Spock replied .
- Then, you should be waiting for a while; please have a little patience."- Captain Tu`rul said, and Spock made a little bow in his direction.
Frank was near him, but understand nothing about the offer, being made in Vulcan language.
- We will wait for a nomination, ...- Spock said.
- Mr. Spock, we are in a tremendous ship! But I see here no warp engines!"- Frank said, looking at one diagram on a wall.
- Let me see- oh, yeah! This ship uses another kind of propulsion, a system used by Reticulans from old!"- Spock said.
- Please, enlight me about this!"- Frank said; not that he didn `t know of it, but he was forgetting the major part...
- The old Reticulan discs fly by amplifying gravitational waves. Gravity is
actually two waves, identified as gravity A and gravity B. Gravity A is at the atomic level. That is, the wave does not extend beyond the molecular bond except in element 115. This slight extension allows the wave to be accessed and amplified. Gravity A is currently called the strong nuclear force. The propulsion system is an antimatter reactor. In the disc Lazar crawled inside, the reactor was a sphere, about the size of a medicine ball. The top half of it was visible in the middle of the floor. Fuel for the reactor is element 115,
ununpentium. On a periodic table, ununpentium, a super-heavy metal, would be listed as UUP. It has a melting point of 1,740 degrees Celsius. When it is bombarded with protons, it becomes element 116, an element that gives of anti-matter. In the reactor, there is an annihilation reaction between matter and anti-matter.
The wave that is produced from the matter-antimatter reaction is present on the spherical reactor. Attached to the reactor is a transparent wave guide which is tuned in such a manner that it provides an easy path for the wave to take. It takes less effort for the wave to travel up the wave guide than go elsewhere. The bottom of the tapered wave guide touches the top of the reactor, while the top of the wave guide extends to the ceiling. Electric power is produced in thermoelectric generators located at the bottom of the reactor. The generators are virtually 100% efficient.
The gravity amplifiers themselves are three tubes about two feet in diameter and four feet long. They are arranged in a triangular configuration below a false floor and above the bottom of the craft. The reactor is centered between the three amplifiers because the wave is also present at the bottom of the reactor.
The reactor acts as a transmitter, similar to a Tesla Coil, in that each
amplifier is independently tuned to function as an amplifying receiver. Gravity waves have amplitude, wavelength and frequency, just as any other wave does. As the amplitude is increased, gravitational waves bend space around the disc. Each of the three gravity amplifiers produces its own gravitational wave, and, depending on how the amplifiers are oriented, gravity waves can be focused on a point or spread out. On gimbols, each amplifier can operate independently. The waves are phase shifted, which changes the wave's orientation and plane from zero to 180 degrees, thereby changing the attraction or repulsion of the wave.
When a disc operates on only one amplifier, standing on a pedestal of gravity, it is said to operate in an omicron configuration. In this configuration, the other two amplifiers are freed for other uses--such as picking up cattle. In the delta configuration, discs operate on all three amplifiers. This configuration is used in space for long-distance travel. In space, a disc tilts over on its back so that the gravitational amplifiers focus on where the disc is going, and the propulsion system is powered up, amplifying gravitational waves that are out of phase with Earth's gravity. The amplified gravitational waves distort space and time or "space-time" as it is referred to in the documents. That gravity distorts or warps space is currently known in mainstream physics.
That is why astronomers, at certain positions during an eclipse, can see stars
that are directly behind the sun (the sun's gravity causes the star's light to
bend around the sun). That gravity distorts time is also known. For example, if you and a friend have atomic clocks synchronized to each other and your friend climbs a mountain or goes up in an airplane, the clocks will be out of sync when your friend returns (your clock is in a stronger gravitational field). In short, the disc warps space-time, attaches itself to the warp and snaps back. Imagine a thin sheet of rubber stretched out (this represents space). Now, put a ball bearing on the sheet (this represents the disc). Now, with your fingers under the sheet, pinch the rubber at a point some distance from the ball bearing.
Keeping the rubber pinched, move the pinch to the ball bearing. As you bring the pinch back to its original position, the ball bearing will follow. this is an analogy of what happens. " Spock ends his explanation.
- Mr. Spock, you are nominated! Congratulations! You are the new governor here!"- Captain Tu`rul said, handshaking the Vulcan...
- Thanks for your cooperation- you are invited to our feasts!"- Spock told the captain, who smiled broadly...
- What is happening, Mr. Spock? I didn`t understand your language."- Frank said.
- I am the new governor of Kappa 504 ! "- Spock said.
- I congratulate you!"- Frank gives his hand to the Vulcan, who rise his eyebrow, saying:"- Thanks you! "
After that, Spock was presented- by the Captain Tu`rul- to the city, using the TV programs of the day; soon everyone in Kappa 3 knew that another Vulcan was ruling the world!
Even Kirk , from his perched site, knew about the nomination, and was beamed down in a hurry, to talk with his old friend Spock...
He found Spock in the Municipal Building, and said:"- All the amount of money we received from you, is already gone."
- Pity to hear that, , Captain."- Spock said.
- You, as the new Governor, could give us some new mission."
- Of course! But I am not so much acquainted yet. Why don`t you wait for a couple of a days? I must be received of a lot of informs and works on-going! I am not sure yet about the staff I will be commanding!"- Spock uttered.
- I understand pretty well your situation, Spock! I will be at the Hotel Bradbury, in case you want to call me."- Kirk said, stiffly.
- Fine. I will call you."- Spock said.
After three days, Spock call Kirk and said:"- The deal is this, Captain: we need shuttles to bring our goods from space docks, who are faring us every day of delay it passes! Lots of acquisitions the former Governor did in several dozen planets!"
- But I have just one Shuttle!"- Kirk replied.
- You use that! The payment is C. 8.000, by voyage. You must study the matter, of course. But don`t take too long."-Spock recommended.
- No need to be waiting, Spock! I accept!"- And he shakes Spock`s hand.
Spock takes a machine from his desk, and punched some keys, saying:"- As I know you are out of cash, so I am delivering ,into your Bank Account, C. 45.000 in advance!"
- I appreciate this action of yours!"- Kirk said, with tears on his eyes- who were wiped out to read the amount in his electronic card...
Kirk went to the "Bradbury Hotel" and told his crew: " Gentlemen, we are back in business! Trips using the "Shuttle 2" . They made me a good payment in advance."- Kirk said.
- Ooray!"- They all cried.
Kirk paid them their wages, saying:"- We will be here for a month! The ship I want to be improved with a Replicator. There are 5 x 10/27 atoms in a human body.
The reproducer ,acting by analyzing a subject, and reproducing it, atom by
atom, and space by space, could not only "send" matter (it cannot send matter,
just reproduce it) but multiply the send information: gold, uranium,or men."
- This , for sure, will end with all economic system!"- Frank Blankenhaus said.
- I guess you are right- but the machines are very expensive, and this one is a gift from the Vulcan Empire." Kirk explained.
- And you could turn gold twenthfold?"- Silkie Kiesant, the medic, asked.
- Of course- provided there is gold somewhere!"- Kirk laughed.
They all were astounded with that new, who means all the known fabric of civilization was at stake.
Frank went to see Aline at the Coffee shop, finding her reading an ebook in a minicomputer, as the place was almost empty.
- Hi! I have another Vacation!"- He said.
- Good for you! How are you ?"- She said, during the handshake.
- Swell! My work went successfully. I `m recently paid, and I want you to guide me for another couple of days."
- A stroll by Wonderland?"
- Exactly! With the most beautiful Alice I ever met!"- Frank asserted.
- Adulator! Aline said, leaving the machine on the table.
- Well, can you?"-
- Yes!"- Said Aline, smiling. She went to talk with the Manager, who said:"- You can go now, but bear in mind you are going to work afterwards to repaid me."
- I will. Thank�s you."- Aline replied.
Later, she went out with Frank.
- Aloud me to go home and change my outfit."- Aline said.
- Of course." - Frank accepted.
They take an Aerocab and went to her apartment, in a Megabuilding. The taxi Aerocar leave them on the roof; from there, in a fast elevator, they went down to floor 342.
Aline opened the door, pushing a button with her fingerprint storage in a Databank.
- Mi casa es su casa."- She said to Frank.
- Most honored."- Frank replied, walking inside. She saw the feminine touch everywhere: in the receiving room- all in pink and white with two pneumatic armchairs, some paintings with wild geese; a round table with ashtrays and glass figurines, leather poufs and a multimedia equipment resting on a black plastic furniture.
- Wait me here, please!"- Aline proposed him.
- Take your time!"- Frank replied, looking at her- she was visibly embarrassed.
After some minutes, she presented herself to him, dressed in a green garment.
- You are gorgeous with that dress!"- Frank sighed.
And he was correct, as she use a fine dress over her superb body.
- Where are we going to go?"- Aline asked, blushing.
Frank looked at his watch- it was eleven hours.
- We could travel to the shore! I have plenty of money now."- Frank said, and so they went to the sea-town of RABANTO, where they looked at the blue sea from the Star port.
- Beautiful! And the air is very scented!"- Aline said, looking happy.
They lunched at a fancy Restaurant, where Frank takes her hand, saying:"- I find you utterly adorable! Will you be my wife?"-
Aline stared at Frank, dumfounded.
- I know a couple of times isn`t enough to get acquainted fully, but I had thought of you since I set eyes on you."- Frank added.
For Aline, this situation wasn`t new, as she was beautiful, and working at a public place, where thousands of males appeared every month- much of them were in the hunting of mates.....
- I don`t know what to say, Frank! You are very sympathetic, and kind to me, but we had seen each other just a couple of times- no more!"- Aline remarked.
- And what are your final answer?"- Asked Frank, sensing defeat.
- We cannot be in love- just cannot be! And to be married, is a very serious engagement."- Aline said.
Frank understand her fully, and didn`t press the matter any further. Finished the meal, they went to stroll by the sand, and as the heat was increased at sixteen hours, they bathed in the sea, renting swimming outfits.
Frank was able, once more, to admire the superb body of her; and excited, he run to the sea, in order to cold his senses.
- You swim very well!"- Aline said, once she could be at his side.
- Passably, no more!"- Frank smiled, taking both her hands with the waves, her body was touching his- and she felt something hard. She blushed, saying:"- You seems to be happy!"
- You know why I am happy to-day! Because you are with me. Oh, I wish the day could last for ever!"- Frank put in emphatically.
- It will!"- She promised, squeezing his hand, in her first approach...
After the shore and the sun, they went back to the city of Checovburg , using the Airship liner.
At 20.00 hours, they enter her apartment, and closing the door, they begin kissing each other.
They depart three hours in the apartment, knowing each other as best they could. At 23.00 hours, Frank said:"- I must to go , now. Could we be together to-morrow? I have a month of leave; that was the reason why I asked to be my wife. We could live for a month in happiness.."
- I told you- I cannot say yes! But I will ask a month leave, too! That way, I should be with you- as you want."- Aline exclaimed..
"- I explained to you, darling, that my offer is a good one; marry me and we can have a whole life together."
Aline remained silent, so he went out, after kissing her lips lightly.
When Kirk saw Frank entering the hall of the "Bradbury Hotel", he understand immediatly that something was wrong with his Science Officer.
- Hello, Mr. Blankenhaus! Something is the matter?"-
- Nothing serious, Captain!"- Frank replied, seating next to the Captain ,in the Foyer.
- I see you are ill at ease! Heart troubles?"- Kirk smiled gently.
- I see you have real insight, Captain! I met a woman, a worker in town. She lives alone at her apartment- and finding her utterly adorable, I offered her matrimony."- Frank explained , with a low tone of voice.
Kirk rubbed his chin; and said:"- My me! This is a severe case of Broken Heart! But I�ll tell you you what, Mr. Blankenhaus: the woman has freedom in both her hands; she is independent, and works for it. Then- and suddenly- there appears you , offering a new life together- so she thinks she will be tied to your whims and to your character."
Frank messed his hair a while, and said:"- I guess you hit the nail home, Captain! And I was thinking in it , too - me myself , I am not so sure what I`ll do if she said yes."
- Why? You could backtrack your offer?"- Kirk asked.
- Not that, of course! But where did I live, then? Ankaa`s surface, doing what? I am very fond of life aboard a ship- and I guess you wouldn`t accept women idling at your ship, either!"- Frank said.
- Do not be so taxative, Mr. Blankenhaus! I use to be very flexibly myself! I could give your Sweeatheart a post of something easy to do on board! Like being at Hydroponics, or in charge of the Lock, or an easy job like that."- Kirk said.
Frank didn`t add more to the conversation, and Kirk dozed a while, in his seat at the lobby of the "BRADBURY HOTEL"...
AT THE OTHER day, Aline went very early to work, and when the Manager arrives, she told him she want the permission for a month.
- You better go, my child! Yes, I cannot have a person here who takes vacation every time she fancies! "- The man said, with a grimace.
- I had being here for six months, with never a problem- that didn�t count for nothing?"- She asked.
- My dear, you have all mixed up in your head! Please, better leave now, and come back next week, to pay you the rest of your wages."- He said, with a grave face.
Aline went out, blushing - she was utterly decided to be with his new love, so she came back to her apartment, and wait for him.
Frank arrived at ten o�clock, and she kissed him lightly.
- Oh, you look very beautiful to-day!"- Frank said, looking at her.
- Thanks you! By the way, I arranged the matters at the Coffee shop; we can go wherever you want , now!" Aline said.
- Good news! "- Frank said, with a laugh.- " I talked with my Captain, and he said you could come with me to the ship- if we marry together sometime!"-
- Oh!"- Aline said, thinking in that proposition; she was scared stiff of rockets going humming up to the sky! But she didn`t comment it to Frank.
- But I came not to scare you! - Frank said, and presented Aline a leaflet, where a big building stood among palm trees , and in the background a sunny beach.
- We could go to this Resort Hotel, Aline! It has all the luxuries and entertainment of the World, plus a fine beach, and bouts to sail or fishing."
- Sounds good."- Aline replied.
- So, you are accepting?"-
- For a whole month?
- Yes, or we could go other parts, afterwards.- Frank assured.
- I accept."- She said, kissing him hard- to have lost a good job for that man begin to look not as bad as she firstly think...
Frank calls the Resort Hotel Management, and asked them for a suite - a week long.
- Where are you now, Sir?"- The attendant asked him.
- What is the address of this place, Aline?"- He asked her.
- Megara Building, floor 342, apartment 348 . " - She said; then, after repeating it to the Employee, Frank Heard him say:-" We are sending one of our Aerocars there, Mr. Blankenhaus, so you need not to waste your money in a Taxicab."
- Well, thanks you."- The amazed Astronaut replied.
- And?"- Aline asked him.
- They are sending a person who will carry us all the way."- Frank said, kissing her.
- I better made my valises."- She said, smiling, and he chooses some garments and shoes for the Vacations. He waited at the receiving room, seeing the HoloTV- There was some wars in the Fringes, and also some Pandemics in some far-off worlds; the fashion was to use long dresses for men, and translucent ones for women; the new devices were to use a Translator in every house, to depart to work not even crossing the threshold.
Somebody made the chimes sound, and was the Resort Hotel employee, asking for Frank.
- I am Frank Blankenhaus."- He said.
- Well, I am pleased to meet you, Mr. Blankenhaus! I work at the Travel Agency- may I came in?"- Said the guy, a burly guy of about forty years of age.
- Of course- take a seat."- He said, grinning.
The man said:"- I am Goster Seals; I must ask you a few questions, and we will be in our way- by the way, are you traveling alone?"
- No; I will travel with my fiancee, Miss Aline."
- Oh, very well ! Then, it`s a couple- "- He said, taking notes in a Palm 31.- "May I have your credit card, please?"
Frank handed it to the guy, who inserted it on the Palm 31; soon the numbers appears.
- Fine, Mr. Blankenhaus! Plenty of money you have in storage! Then, let me put this gadget on your skin- there! Is a fast Mr. Doctor, you know? It will tell us everything about your body.. . no offense, of course. There! The light goes green, all is here... Not a trouble... May I see your fiancee for a second, Mr. Blankenhaus?"
- Aline!"- Frank called her.
She came into the room, and when seeing the employee, she paled a lot, saying:"- Oh, is you!"
- Aline!"- The seller said, red in the face; and added:"- I was not aware you was living here! Or I will have some other salesman to attend our customer."- Goster Seal said.
- What is going on here? Did you know the man?"- Frank asked, turning green.
- Oh, I ...met him once."- She said, blushing horribly.
- Mr. Blankenhaus, permit me to retire myself! Here is your card. Please accept my apologizes! I will send somebody else here. "- And doing it, the man left in a hurry.
- Who could explain me this?"- Frank said, handling the credit card and seating on a sofa.
- Me, of course! I am so ashamed... I was married to him, once! For a short while."- Aline said, also seating herself on another armchair.
- Well, how little is the world, no? And for how many years you lived with him?"- Frank asked, with a feeble voice.
- For four and a half years! We divorced five months ago."- She said.
- Well, Aline, guess you and me have not any more to say each other. Good bye, and I wish I never meet you."- Frank went out of the apartment.
Aline keep herself seated there, for some hours- she was not wanting to live any more.
Frank, for his part, went to a Bar, and drink some Pisco bottles; when leaving the place, he was utterly drunk; he takes a taxi and went to the "Bradbury Hotel", where Kirk saw him walking unsteady down the hall; he run to meet him, and carry Frank to the dormitory, where he lay in bed during all his drunkenness.
Kirk, by the meantime, went to the Lobby of the Hotel, to keep looking the passengers come and go; it was a kind of hobby he developed in the last five days... as he was seeing the Shuttle 2 must be running up and down, with shifting crews- every time they landed, he send new crew to the Star port, and the old one came to rest for a day.
He didn`t fly the vessel- he was organizing things on the planet, and Lana was on the "Maora", running things up there; so he was alone.
- What happens with Frank ? "- A voice asks him. Kirk looked up, seeing the face of Pavel Adrian Jackson.
- A broken heart, I presume! I saw him walking as a drunkard! He must have a fight, that is for sure."- Kirk informed the other. Pavel seats next to him, rubbing his chin, and said:"- Well, I`ll be damned! The Heart troubles are the worst ! A nightmare."
- You can repeat it."- Kirk said, remembering his wrongdoing.
- And what are you going to do?"- Pavel asked .
- Guess I`ll ground him for sure! I cannot leave him go up in the Shuttle! Could made a mistake."- Kirk said, looking at a gorgeous blonde who was getting inside the Hall.
- Yes, that is the best."- Pavel said, sighing. He was happy to be in the Hotel; no sounds of machinery, no spots without gravity. But also, he was waiting his shift, to go droning up for more cargo for the city.
- Wish to know about his woman! I could amend things in a better way."- Kirk said.
- I could go and search for papers in his vest."- Pavel said.
- The hell you do! That is an ugly thing to do, Pilot!"- Kirk grumbled.
- Pardon me, Sir."- Pavel said, scared stiff.
- Well, I pardon you. Go and search."- Kirk grinned, and saw how his Pilot goes upstairs in a hurry... Later, he come back without information; in the pockets of Frank there were no paper no addresses, no nothing except his credit card and an old handkerchief- not specially clean.
- We wait.- Kirk said, yawning.
Two days elapsed, Frank was a new man; shaved, pale, and ready to fly on the Shuttle 2.
- Well, Frank, you can go and pilot the Shuttle! But first, you are going to tell me the name and address of that female of yours!"- Kirk ordered.
- No, please, Captain Kirk! She is not worthwhile!"- He begged like a child.
- I cannot see a man in shambles for more than a day! And you already goes in day Three! Name and address!"- He repeated.
Frank told him the address of Aline, and added:"- I don`t want her now! She was married - recently divorced- and didn�t told me !"
- Aright, Frank! I will go and talk with her; and I will see the best course of action; you go now as calm as you can be, and return with the Shuttle in one piece!"- Kirk said.
Frank Blankenhaus went out, with his stout body marching as in a Starfleet Parade, down the Hall of the "Bradbury Hotel".
Kirk memorized the address, and told the Manager of the Hotel:"- Any notice for me you send it to my Palm! "
- Yes, Sir.!"- The manager said, with a bow. He knew the Captain was a close friend of the new Governor!
In a aerotaxi, Kirk went to the Megara Megabuilding, and landed in front of the great elevators; in one of those, he descended to floor 342 , room 3428, where he rings the bell- so to speak, as the chimes were produced when touching a red button on the door.
A beautiful woman opened the door, and stared coldly at him.
- Hello, dame. I am Captain Kirk, from the "Maora " starvessel; Frank Blankenhaus sends me."- Kirk said.
Aline stared a little more , but then she reacted, and opening the door a little more, she said:"- You can come in, Sir."
- Thanks."- Kirk said, smiling; he saw the cozy little room , with the poufs and the armchairs.
- Please, take a seat."- She urged, and she also seats at one of the chairs.
- Well, you live handsomely here! Frank told me so; you have good taste. Pity you both cannot make ends meet! He gets really drunk last time he was here."- Kirk said.
- I offer him no drink, Sir. Must have been in some Bar."- Aline said, coldly.
- Yes, I assume it was like that. Some quarrel, between you two?"- Kirk asked.
- Why are you asking me that ? Did Frank sent you, or you come by your own ?"- She asked, stiffly.
- I see you are a clever girl ! Yes, I must admit I am here for my own accord! But you must understand me, Miss! I am his Captain; he is a valuable crew member in my staff; now he is piloting - guiding if you want- a big cargo vessel up to the sky! So he must be calm, no problems in his life! "
- And I am being a problem for him?"- Aline asked, looking disturbed.
- Not you as a person, but among you both must had been a trouble; wish you tell me more."- Kirk said.
- I can tell you, but is rare he didn�t ! "- Aline remarked.
- He told me you didn`t inform him about your previous marriage ! "- Kirk announced.
- Yes, I was too light in that direction- but I was going to tell it- and some other things- when doing a .. travel."- She said, sobbing suddenly.
- Oh, no, calm yourself !"- Kirk said, standing and passing an arm around her shoulders.
- Pardon me, Sir! But this was a shock for me! We were going so well together! We were going to Vacations at a good Resort Hotel! And when the employee of that Resort appears- guess what?"- Aline asked.
- What? Frank discovered you was marriage before... seeing the man?"- Kirk presupposes.
- Yes! That was the trouble! The employee was my ex- husband! A terrible mistake- he didn`t know my address- but things goes queer, sometimes, don`t you think?- Aline said.
- Of course! Anyone could say this life is guided by someone! Of course, we knowledged people, didn`t believe in God Almighty, but sometimes you wonder if that person could be laughing of us, somewhere!"- Kirk replied.
Aline stands herself in front of Kirk, and asked:"- Do you want a cup of tea, Sir?"
- Of course! - Kirk smiled broadly.
She went to the kitchen, and boiled a little water; pour something on tea leaves, and after a while, comes back to the Living Room with the glass of tea.
- Thanks! Oh, it tastes very good! You have good tea , in Kappa three! Like in Earth- in old times!"- Kirk said.
- Why, are no tea nowadays down there?"- She asked, rising his eyebrows.
- No tea, unfortunately! Like that it goes , when China was A- Bombed by the British and the USA of Bush Junior! A real Pity, of course!" .- Kirk exclaimed.
- I love Frank- he is so neat, so whole in every aspect! And we haven`t have intimacy, Mr. Captain! Never!"- Aline said.
- Oh, that is a queer thing, nowadays!"- Kirk said, sipping the brew.
- Also, he offers me matrimony! And I told him not so soon! But I guess I commit a mistake!"- Aline said, seating on a pouf.
- Well, don`t take it so seriously! Perhaps at your work you also looks as abated as here! And you must not! You are beautiful, full of life!"- Kirk said.
- Do you think so?"- Aline said, from her seat.
- Of course you are beautiful!"- Kirk said, kneeling behind her, and touching his cheek.
Somebody knocked the door, the woman walks to the door, opened it, and said:"- What are you doing here?"
- Oh ,�common! I knew the guy refused to rent at the Resort Hotel! So he must has left you! But here I am, your husband, to consolate you!"- A man said.
- Leave now! I don`t want to see you !"- Aline said.
The man went inside, pushing the door ajar, and Kirk was there, looking grave.
- Oh, you have another guy in here! Hello, who are you, mate?"- Goster Seals asked to Kirk.
- The Lady told you to go, friend! "- Kirk replied.
- Oh, oh! A Superheroe too! You are going to leave!"- Goster Seals said, pushing Kirk .
Kirk takes the man with one hand, and with the other he smashed his face; the man goes to the door , banged, and plop went to the floor.
- What have you donned!"- Aline said, scared stiff.
- I helped you, of course!"- Kirk said.
Goster Seals went inside again, but this time handling a ray gun!
- You are going to pay for this , pal!"- He said, and points the gun to the Captain of the "Maora", but Kirk kicked the man in the hand, and there it flies the gun, banging on a wall.
Then, Kirk hits hard on Goster Seals�s face- one, two, twenty times; the man was like a puppet, wiggling , but didn`t went to the floor... So Kirk pushed him to the corridor, and helped him goes downstairs with a kick on the back shoulders.
- That will teach him one or two things." - Kirk told Aline, who was scared stiff.
- Please, come to the bath room! You have blood on your hands and sleeves!"- She told him.
So he takes the shirt out, and washes hands and arms. Then, Aline presents him with a pink sweater, saying:"- It�s all I have of your size!"
- No problem, Aline.!"- Kirk said, and puts the sweater on; then he went to the living room.
- Take a seat! Want another tea, Sir ?"- Aline said.
- Call me Kirk.- He said, laughing.
- Kirk- She said, hardly smiling...
Kirk rubbed his knuckles; some of them were sore. - Damn!" - He said, as he hate to have his hands with scars...
Aline swaps the floor , erasing the blood stains; she went to the door,and clean it too. After that, went to the kitchen, and returns with the glass of tea.
- Thanks you, Aline.
- It`s nothing, Kirk.- She said, blushing.
- You could make a good wife, Aline! You clean, swap floors, makes tea... what others things you did?"- Kirk asked.
She blushed a bit more; the man was like a magnet- she was irresistibly attracted to him!
- Well, could you mend our friendship?- She asked, for to say something.
- Of course! Now that I saved you- I must do the whole job!"- Kirk said.
- I am out of job, Kirk! When asking for a lease, the owner fired me! "- She informs him.
- Bad thing, Lady! No job... well, I can offer you one! "- He smiled.
- You are too kind to me! To us."- She amended, quick.
Kirk takes her hand with one of his, and said:"- You leave here, takes the valises I am seeing in a corner- come to my Hotel! There you are going to wait for Frank! What do you say?"
- Oh, I cannot, Kirk! What the people will say of me? A woman hunting a man! No way."- She remarked.
- Guess you are right."- Kirk said, standing.
- Are you leaving, now?"- She asked.
- Of course! I will not let you down! I will think of another option."- Kirk assured Aline.
- Wish you could!"- She said, abated....
Kirk went out, and saw the door close... In the stairs, Paramedics were carrying someone; he takes the elevator, went up, takes an Aerocar, and returns to Hotel Bradbury....
- Hello, lover!"- Lana Bickford said, kissing him when inside the Lobby.
- Why, you! How good a surprise!"- Kirk said, noticing an erection.
- Yes, my stud!"- She whispered in his hear, approaching her body to his.
- There are people looking at us."- He said, stiffly.
- Let them stare!"- She laughed, and they both seats on the couches.
- A nice Hotel, this! Like an old Victorian place!"- She said, sighing.
- Same reaction here! I am very accustomed to be here ,idling!"- He confirms.
- Yes! I guess you also look on the women!"- Lana said, as there was a lot of good looking females passing hither and thither.
- And who is getting care of the "Maora", now you piloted here?"- Kirk asked.
- Frank Blankenhaus, of course! The guy has aversion to this planet! What happened to him?"- Lana asked.
- A long story- a broken heart."- Kirk sighed.
- Ah, I understand! Some wench takes his money, or something?"- Lana ask.
- Yes, something like that! Well, the guy seems to be receding himself on high! Perhaps it will be better for him- but the man needs a woman."- Kirk said, taking her hand.
- Oh, you little devil!"- She said, kissing him.
- With whom you arrive here?"- Kirk asked.
- With Esadam! He is in the parking lot."- She replied.
- Better we go and fetch him here! They can steal it from us!"- Kirk said, standing upright.
Soon they were with the Eman, who was idling, for a change...
- Good to be here, Esadam?"- Kirk asked of him.
- Yes, Captain! Nice air."- The eman replied with a long stare.
Kirk return - with them- to his apartment, and calls Pavel to the room.
- Lana is here."- He announced.
- I see! Good to see you."- Pavel said, smiling.
- Me too."- She replied.
- And Esadam! How is the ship, mate?"- He asked the eman.
- Fine! Working O.K."- Esadam replied.
- As Lana is here, we need you there."- Kirk said.
- Well, I was beginning to bore myself here."- Pavel said, to avoid resentments from the couple.
- You can catch the Shuttle at Pier 32."- She said.-" They are refueling it and discharging the cargo- guess you have three hours left."-
- I will go this minute, Captain. With your permission."- Pavel said.
- Take."- Kirk said, handling some money for the Aerotaxi; then, the man went out.
- Pity he left us! But we are in scarcity of crew members, now we are using both vessels."- Lana said, looking at Kirk.
- I will show Esadam where he will be from then on."- Kirk said, and went with Esadam to the suit who was occupied- until then- by Pavel. A nice 2 room apartment, with a bathroom and a food dispenser.
- You will be here, Esadam! When I need you, I will call you by the phone or in person. And do not obey orders from strangers, if someone pop ups here! You went to me and ask me of everything unusual. Understood?"- Kirk asked.
- I comprehend very clear your order, Sir. Afraid someone stole me?"- Esadam said.
- Correct. This here planet is a new one- always people come here to make a profit and run! So be alert."- Kirk commands, leaving the department with its door shut.
- Like a baby."- Lana said, smiling.
- Yes, we real people makes a lot of evil things, sometimes."- Kirk groaned.
- Like what?"- She asked, interested.
- When in big power, man declare war unto weak countries, to obtain fuel , money or territory- proof of that was in blank and white demonstrated in Old Eras, like Ninive, Rome, Bizance, Baghdad ! "- He said.
- Do not think in it , dearest! Think in me, better."- She said, hugging him in the corridor; they went into the apartment, closed the door, and dimmed the lights.
After a month working with the Shuttle 2, the cargo for the city of Checovburg diminished, so Kirk saw the end of the job .
- So we end our deal?"- Kirk asks.
- Yes, Captain. I am putting some order here! - Spock said, making the final deposit in Kirk�s account.
- 345.000 Credits! Thank`s , Spock!"- Kirk said, eyeing the amount.
- I need to maintain my job here, doing good business! Care for a little ride to Vulcan, Captain ?"- Spock asked.
- Why? Somebody sick in your family?"- Kirk replied.
- Not that I know of! Simply a voyage there, to carry some goods I am buying here! I pretend to establish myself ,in time, at Vulcan planet! And I wish was you the person who carry my goods there. I will pay you handsomely."- The Vulcan said.
- Good for me! Take it for granted! When we begin the cargo operations?"- Kirk said, rubbing his palms.
- Any time now! But I must take care of one or two things, first! So you can wait for a while! There are several palaces for my use, Captain, and you could move to one of those, with your crew- less in the open, so to speak! Hotel Bradbury is good, but I prefer to have you in one of my secluded palaces. "- Spock said.
- Fine. You guide me."- Kirk said.
- No, I will send you a guide - another person! Wait at the Hotel Bradbury, Captain, with your valises ready! "- Spock said, ending the meeting .
Kirk went out of the great office Spock was using, and Lana asked :"- What he said?"
- The cargo job is ended! But he will give us another mission."- Kirk said in her hear.
- What?"- Lana Bickford asked, incredulous.
- You hear me! He is sending us to Vulcan, in a secret mission!"- Kirk told Lana.
She put her fingers in front of her mouth, and didn`t talk any more, until they were in the Hotel room.
- So he is helping us with more jobs!"- She said.
- Of course! He is a friend of us!"- Kirk said, resting on his bed.
- A good friend he is portraying himself! "- She laughed, embracing him.
- We must be ready, lover! We are going to be with all our belongings in the suitcases."- Kirk said, standing- he puts all his clothes in his two suitcases, and Lana do the same with her belongings- who was out of the suitcases just a couple of hours before!
- Why he want us out of here?"- Lana Bickford asked.
- Probably we are being spy here! Who knows? He is an important person- The important person in the whole planet- so anyone talking as freely with him as me, must be investigated!"- Kirk supposed.
- Really!"- She said, trembling slightly- she was not glad to be spied!
Kirk called Esadam, and said:"- Make ready your belongings! "
- I have just a couple of dresses in my apartment, Sir."- The Eman said.
- Take them here! We are leaving any time now."- Kirk ordered. The Eman complies in a couple of minutes, seating in a sofa on the first room
- Obedient as a child."- Lana said.
- AS it must be!"- Kirk replied, smiling. Then the door bell was tolling, and Esadam opened the door.
- Is Captain Kirk in here?"- A voice asked.
- Yes, who are you?"- The Eman said.
- Lester Bigelow, his Second Secretary! "- The man replied.
Kirk went there, and saw an old man, with spectacles, waiting for him.
- Yes, I am Kirk!"- He said.
- Captain, how nice to meet you! Hear a lot of your adventures!"- The man said, shaking his hand.
- Good for you! Why, are we departing now?"- Kirk asked.
- Yes, Captain! Please let�s get out from here as soon as you could."- Bigelow said.
Kirk, Lana and Esadam went out, with the valises with them; they went out of the Hotel Bradbury, and a nice big Aerocar from the Government was parked outside.
- We are going to travel in that vehicle, Sir."- Bigelow remarked; they went inside, and the artifact rise in the air with a hiss.
- The bill at the Hotel was paid by me."- Bigelow said.
- Fine! I will pay you later."- Kirk said.
- Not necessary, Captain! The Governor provides the money."- Bigelow informed.
- Nice gesture."- Lana Bickman said.
- He is a good person. Well, we are going to the finest of the Governor `s palaces! The Sradingar."- Bigelow said.
- Never hear of it."- Kirk said.
- You didn�t ? Well, is a big building with 390 rooms ! It is located near a fine mountain ridge! You will be delighted to be there."- Bigelow said, coughing.
Soon the city of Checovburg was at their backs, and the artifact speeded for about half an hour; then, near a lake, close to a mountain, they saw a great building.
- Sradingar !"- Bigelow said, with emphasis. The machine descended near, and from the building some vehicles closed in.
- Please, aboard the vehicles! "- Bigelow asked. And they were carried to the main building, three stories high, and a hundred meters wide.
Inside, all was of an astonishing luxury; the stairs were of polished marble, and the floors made of mahogany. Several servants were there waiting them to salute and carry them to their separated rooms...
- Good luck! Soon I will come back to give you the details"- Bigelow said, and departed with a bow...
- Good luck! Guess we are lucky, indeed!"- Kirk said, looking at his companions: Lana and Esadam...
- Wish the others would be here."- Lana Bickford said.
- Of course! But they are in orbit now! I will send them a message- they must refuel and be ready!"- Kirk said, asking for a computer.
Soon he was talking with the crew of the Maora"; they told him the ship was in good shape, also the Shuttle 2. But as to refuel and make some maintenance, they were unable to do so, due to the lack of money.
- Well, then wait for me! It will be only a matter of days."- Kirk said, ending the communication...
They were walking by the corridors- the whole place was superb! Art everywhere, mingled with the last electronic gadgets; fine furniture and all clean and smelling of flowers...
AT night, they dinne at the great table, attended by the servants.
- Good meat! What it is, cow?"- Kirk asked.
- Rhinoceros, Sir."- The servant said.
- Oh, indeed?"- He said, looking at his plate.
- It tastes good."- Lana smiled.
- Of course ! It was cooked with the best recipe there is."- The servant said.
- And the wine is good; red and thick."- Kirk said.
- Vi�a Carmen, Sir. Chilean stock."- The waiter said, bowing...
- Ah, Chile! Once I was there.-- Kirk remembered.
After the dinner, they went to walk by the gardens; globes of light were suspended in mid- air, and the fountains were providing the crystal- like rumor Kirk wants to hear.
- Fine place, this! The old and the new- together."- Lana said, with his hand on his arm.
- Yes! You could almost believe there is no hate and ambition lurking in so many worlds you lost count!"- Kirk asseverated.
- Hate and ambition! "- She shuddered.
- Love and generosity! That should command the worlds."- Kirk said.- " But species going out of animality has in its DNA the germ of the Beast! "
- A thing of the past, in some species! The most evolved ones has tampered the Genetic Code, putting aside what makes hate and wish the thing of others! "- Lana said.
- Yes, I know of a couple of species ... out of a thousand!"- Kirk smiled, thinking in the Diafanoides.
A servant come from the building, carrying garments."- It is very cold in here, Sir; please put on this garments, who are electrically warm."
- Very well. We don�t want to have a cold."- Kirk said, and after a while more, they return to the building- and their bedroom.
Five days later, Spock arrives, with a big retinue and eight freighters.
- Good morning, Captain! Did I awoke you with the din?"- Spock asked him, at the main hall.
- Not at all! I usually wake up at seven."- Kirk announced.
- I remember it well. "- Spock said.
- Are this machines carrying the goods to the "Maora"?- Kirk asked.
- Not possible! The 39-0 are not able to leave the planet; you should ask your crew to come here in the Shuttle 2 and carry it all on board."- Spock said.
- I understand. I will call them now."- Kirk said, and called them via Computer; Frank Blankenhaus said:"- I will send the Shuttle right away, Captain! Just give me the necessary coordinates."
Kirk asked them to Spock, who said:"- Lat. 12� 2`, Long 20� 3`."-
Kirk repeated them to Frank, saying:"- There are several other vehicles in here. Take care."
- I will."- Frank said, and hung up.
Spock show Kirk several lists , saying:"- Here are the things I want to be carried to Vulcan- when arriving there, you will be contacted with one of my family; to him you will deliver the cargo; her name is T� Kara."
- Fine; T`Kara will receive the cargo."- Kirk repeated.
- I will be waiting for a signal ; I ask of you a starradio message, in order to know you have accomplished the mission successfully."- Spock said.
- I will call you; and as you are not saying it, I must ask: when this mission is over, are you going to give me more assignations?"- Kirk asked.
- Yes, Captain! You can count with it; so if you want to come back from Vulcan when the cargo is delivered, you are welcome."- Spock said, saluting him.
- Well, guess all is well and done with us! Shall we take a drink, now?"- Kirk invited....
- Of course, Captain."- Spock said, and they both went to the Bar...
There, a couple of servants receive their orders, and provided the couple of cups, they seat in the sofas, talking about old days...
The sound of a big engine was heard, some twenty minutes later, and they both went out to see the landing of the Shuttle 2.
From it`s interior, two crew members of the "Maora" went down, and presented themselves...
- Hi, Captain! Sir..., the Shuttle II is ready to be cargoed! "- Smirnoff said.
- Take a drink first, Wlad; and you too, Janice!"- Kirk invited them. Both members were smiling, happy to be seeing him and with a new mission in their future...
Spock offered them a music demonstration, using one of his old Vulcan instruments, and they were yawning until 23.00 hours; then, Spock said:"- I bid you farewell, as I will depart at 05.00 hours to the city of Checovburg; so many decisions to make!"
And he went to sleep.
Kirk yawned again, and told his crew: -"Well, gentlemen, and madams; we also have a busy day to-morrow, with the "Shuttle 2 " ready to depart; as soon as we have the shuttle attached to the "Maora", we are going bye-bye, as here between us, this cargo smells queer to me."
- Same here"- Lana smiled.
- To hit the sac!" Kirk remarked,and they went to sleep in the luxury beds of the mansion.
At five o`clock, fully dressed, Spock went to the city with his retinue; he was happy inside, as he accomplished one of his dreams: to send home several works or art and valuable things! His friend Kirk will see to it; he was a good and reliable man who will not hesitate if the cargo was threatened in any way; first his duty, then other considerations!
- Governor, the city of Checovburg in sight."- They told him via the intercom.
- Fine, you just land in our usual post."- Spock said.
- All right."- The pilot answered; he was Cron T`run, one Vulcan to be trusted; some of the media of Checovburg was seeing with evil eyes his choosing of Vulcan people.
Spock descended of the vessel, followed by three bodyguards, human stock.
- Governor! The Bartenders of the city of Checovburg demands an explanation!"- A reporter said, and then a swarm of the aforementioned specie was prickling at the Governor, who didn`t move a muscle of his face, and less his tongue.
Once in his office, he calls Marciela Feirondia, his first Secretary.
- What is that demand the Bartenders are bothering me with?"-
His first secretary, a fat ex- beauty model, married and with six kids, said:"- You order the attendance of all night clubs to end at 20.00 hours, Sir!"
- Oh, did I? "- Spock almost smiled- he was teaching good Vulcan customs to this people.
- And they want the old regimentation back! They use to remain open until five in the morning."- Marciela Feirondia said.
- Good! I will not flinch an inch! This people needs to learn working habitudes; to sleep well in order to work in a proper form at the other day!"- Spock said.
Marciela Feirondia nodded; she was there because she knew how to shut the fuck-up, and smile like a moron.
- What is the agenda for to-day, Marciela?"- Spock said, seated at his desk.
- Eight hours, Media press; you are going to speak about the misuse of tobacco in town."- Feirondia said, with a swift glance to his Palm PC.
- Good! I guess I have a speech all ready made."- Spock said, fumbling with his
laptop.
- I have a copy at my desk, Sir! In old -time paper."- Marciela said.
- Hand me one copy, then! I must re- memorize it!"- The Vulcan said, in haste- it was 7.30 hours already...
At eight, in a chilly room- Spock was economizing fuel at the building- the Vulcan enters with his fast pace,and saw there were just a handful of reporters waiting.
- What happens? Should be a lot more people here!"- He told his Secretary, Marciela Feirondia.
- They said they were going to interview a new singer this morning, Sir! At the Starport."- She informs him.
- Well."- He said, bracing himself as he could...
He takes the microphone , after a brief introduction by his Secretary,and said:
- People of Checovburg and Kappa in general: We are here to-day to know how many cases of lung cancer we have in our Hospitals- as I see in this paper, there are 3.030 cases of lung cancer where the persons are going to die during the elapsed time of two weeks from now. Some 39.000 other cases of lung cancer are waiting to end in deaths around the globe- not a good news, but as I told you before, I am here to help.
" As it is from now on, I forbade the use of tobacco in any form! The cigars, cigarettes in our planet will be shunned from to-day! I already signed an order to the Police; every tobacco package will be confiscated and duly paid to the shops where they were taken- but no more tobacco will exist from to-day!"
The reporters were astounded, but after a while, they begin asking how he will resist the wave of angry citizens asking for the law to be erased.
- I will not flinch an inch! This I must remark, so there must be no doubt about ! No more cigars in Kappa 3! It has produced so many deaths and sufferings of every kind! The families of the deceased , generally ends by paying big amount of money to Hospitals , for this reason! "- Spock almost yelled, as the reporters were talking back.
As the turmoil was growing, Spock went out of the room, followed by his Secretary.
- What a people ! They cannot understand a simple question!"- Spock said, when arriving to his desk.
- Yes. Well, now you have a meeting with some bookstore owners. "- She said.
- What for?"- Spock asked, rising his right brow.
- You send for them, Sir! Remember: the use of books in schools , to increase the literacy?"- Marciela Feirondia said.
- Oh, that! Well, let them came in."- Spock said, with a stiff face.
Soon, five older people come in, coughing and saluting with difficulty; once they were in their seats, Spock said:"- I called you as I know how difficult must it be to be printing books in this Era of electronics! "
- You must be joking, Sir! We almost didn`t publish a book since five years hence!"- One of them said- a pale faced man of eighty years.
- Well, I am here to help you! I know the monitors are big help- bringing students every kind of book they ask to their computers! But to have a book in one`s hand- that is a special and very personal approach to literature!"- Spock said.
Gorterraro Gomez , the older, said:"- When I heard your words, Sir, I remember how , in the lonely hours of my pre- sleep time, I wish I could find a Governor with such ideas- long ago it was, and now I heard you and tears come to my old eyes!"
And certainly, the man was crying in front of his colleagues ...
- Do not cry, please! It didn`t affect me, but perhaps History could repeat this episode and make the readers cry! Well, I will donate $20.000.000 Credits for each of you here, in order to print as many teaching books as you can! Those books will be donated to Schools all over our planet, and students will praise us for the effort."- Spock said.
- Er..., Governor Spock; I can hardly imagine a better plot myself! Will you be kind to teach us a couple of titles you want to be published?"- Ronald Busheater said, with a cough out of pure emotion.
- Of course! I will give you some lists to be guiding your preferences; this are "History of Vulcan"; " Science and Vulcan Civilization"; " Vulcan Law"; and some other titles such as " They Odyssey through Vulcan lands"; " Tom T` ayer"; " No Sensations Need"; and of course, the famous " Tulliver Travels".
The Kappians were dumbfounded, amazed, astounded and worried; one of them said:"- But Sir, this are only Vulcan titles! People here likes Earth themes!"
- No matter that! We are going to change habits- from deep under! From School! Nobody will notice too much of this- or are you forgetting everyone is reading and playing with Computers nowadays? Who is reading books?"
- Almost nobody!"- Gorti Fsoidelo said, with a cough.
- You see? This will pass unnoticed! Students will study this matters at school, and common people will notice nothing! But, in 20 years hence, we will have people here arguing and doing Theater shows with Vulcan ways of life! "- Spock said.
The Editors went out, and waits for the lists- and the money! Six days elapsed, they all received the millions and so they reunite in Gorti Fsoidelo`s Department- a big one indeed- and after some tea cups , Gorti said:"- Well, fellows, we are here to study how are we going to cope with the Governor`s mandate! We have here his list: more than fifty titles- all of Vulcan civilization ! "
- The Governor is a very patriotic fellow- in his own way, of course."- Ronald Busheater said.
- And we must print those titles, or else he will be mad at us! "- Gorterraro Gomez said.
- Twenty million credits makes us capable of to print all the list but with not too much volumes! Fifty titles means a lot of work, and designs! Guess there will be not more than 200 volumes for each title. Not enough to create "conscience" of Vulcan civilization whatsoever!"- Ronald Busheater said.
- Guess we must think in our share, too! It is not a matter of to be working for nothing! We must think we are not going to sell the product, but to deliver it in the Governor`s door! "- Gorterraro said.
- So we must "inflate" somewhat the prices! Guess we are able to do so?"- Ronald Busheater said.
- I am sure we all know how! Well, we are going to print all the list! And be ready for more! Perhaps the Governor will ask for more volumes, when seeing we are delivering so a scant number of volumes this time!"- Gorterraro said.
And they print all the list, and deliver the books to the Governor- in a very celebrated ceremony, in front of lots of TV cameramen.
- This hour is a sacred hour for our planet!"- Spock said, three months later- " This books are going to engross our Bibliotecs all over the planet, with Vulcan ideas and examples ! "
The public, in general, was not interested in books, so the news didn`t comment on this bizarre gesture of the Vulcan Governor- as Spock was already named.
Spock went to the Libraries several times, seeing his contributions make little significance, so he gives an Edict to Schools, in order to force Teachers to teach Vulcan ways of thinking- so the Books were finally used, but not with any interest at all.
Anti- Demonstrations begun flowering all over the Planet. The Bartenders and smoking People were upset by the end of their Revenues.
By the Television Programs, a Senator (of name Narmendio) said:- " This Governor it`s tearing apart 150 years of history ; his ideas are alien to this civilization!"
Spock was informed there was prostitution at the Star port, so he commanded the Chief of Police to find out.
Three days elapsed, T`priker ( The Chief of Police) said."- It was true, Governor. A thousand women are working by night, sucking cocks and other blow jobs."
- I see. We must take them all to jail. Ask for Special Forces."
- And what about the Customers?"
- The Law forbids Prostitution! They too must go to Jail, and be fined. We must clean up our Society."- Spock said.
That very Night, 3.000 Policemen and 2 Special Forces Unit were busy taking all Whore and men to the five Jails in Checovburg. At the other day, Judges were very busy putting fines on each Cranium, be it of Whores or Hard Men - all day long.
By The Governor`s request, the Media was present during all the operation; so many people could identify several important people, among the crowd- Three Senators (among them Narmendio, the one who spoke against Spock not five days ago); and four Majors of different Sections of Checovburg; two priests of high rank; the Fire Engine`s Chief; Two Deans of famous Universities; Eight Professors (One of Science Fiction); and more than three hundred married men.
Among the Whores were daughters of high society ladies, plus eight ladies themselves; and some Travesties.
The turmoil was great; many marriages find their ends in that day, and also political carriers were smacked out to oblivion.
Spock was happy for his Success. Several Church Congregations went to pay tribute to his soundness , but they were small in numbers- compared with the outraged ones.
Soon , throughout all the planet Kappa, two main groups sprouts to life: the ones with the Governor`s plans, and the ones against it.
******
KIRK WENT TO VULCAN PLANET
Kirk made the voyage to Vulcan in little time, and arriving there, delivered the Cargo to Mr. T' Kool, and he went to an Hotel, with Lana Bickford.
- Lugubrius place, all of this."- She said.
- Why did you said that? Our rooms are fine."- Kirk replied.
- The rooms! I am referring myself to the Gloomy exterior. Did you see those dark mountains , the dark glow of the Sky? It seems that never is enough light, out there."- Lana said.
- Well, perhaps is because Vulcan is further away from his star, than we are accustomed when visiting Terraformed planets. Also, it`s smaller than Mars. So we almost can see the Stars in broad daylight."- Kirk explained to the young astronaut.
Lana embraces him, kissing him hard, and said:"- Well, let`s forget the Astronomy Lessons, for a while!"
---
T`Kool and T�Kara come to Kirk`s rooms in the morning.
- We are cousins of Governor Spock."- Said T�Kool , a big burly man.
- Fine! Come inside."- Kirk invited them; at the receiving room, they seated.
- This is Lana Bickford, First officer! - Kirk presented her.
- Good Morning, Captain Kirk! We have received all the goods in fine order; now we are going to send our cousin a Box; you take care of it, as it contains the Payment. - T`Kara said.
T�Kara was a fine woman of about twenty four years (Terran appearance).
- And how is our cousin at Kappa?"�- T�Kara asked.
- When we launched he was doing fine. I have no doubt that he will keep on like that."- Kirk replied.
- We had heard different."- T�Kool said.
- How is it? "- Kirk asked. He was not so much interested in Politics.
- We heard the news from Kappa. There is lot of turmoil there. Our cousin wants a Victorian age at that planet."- T�Kara expounded.
- Well, I guess he is very well appointed there- his Judgment never was foul before."- Kirk replied.
- There is always a first time for everything."- T`Kool expounded. He give Kirk the payment in a sealed box, and said:"- We expect that you could attend a meeting at hour house. To-morrow at 20.00 hours. We will come to take you out."- T`Kool said, and departed with T`Kara.
T`Kara give gifts to both of them, before she go.
- This are special amulets. Wear them always- it will bring you luck."- T`Kara said.
The objects were dark polished stones, with a screw who attached it to a golden chain- round the neck.
After their departure, Kirk said:"- Very demanding , this Vulcans! We are "invited" but with no other choice!"-
- The jewel it`s beautiful! How much could it cost?"- Lana said, looking it at her throat.
- You can went out to a gift- shop and ask!"- Kirk replied, sagging.
- Better to a Jewelry! Are those shops in existence here?"- Lana asked, incredulous.
- Guess no; perhaps at some Curio- shop."- Kirk said.
They went out - hours later- and asked there; they told them it were Family Clan objects.
- With those hanging from the collars, you can identify yourselves in any social event."- The attendant said.
- And are very costly?"- Lana asked.
- Not much, money- speaking, but important- in your case, as it represents one of the ruler families at Vulcan."- The clerk said.
They went out from the shop with mixed feelings- Kirk was thinking the Spock family members just made them members of the same, and Lana Bickford was thinking the Spock cousins were giving away stones without much value...
At the Hotel, they reunite with some other crew members of the Maora, and Blankenhaus takes Kirk apart, saying:"- Your family members need to know about you! You must send them some message of a kind!"
- Yes, you have right!"- Kirk said, bowing his head.
- If you want , I could record some film and sent it in a hurry! We have received eight messages already."- Blankenhaus said.
- All right! Where?"- Kirk said.
- I have a camera with me- here it`s too much noise! We could go to some isolated spot."- Blankenhaus said.
- All right! We could go to the outside of the building."- Kirk said, leaving the room. Lana saw him, and following him, asked what was happening.
- I must sent a message home! Please wait me here."- He asked.
- All right! A message to your "love"?"- She said, with hate, and went back to the room
- Women!"- Kirk sighed, and went downstairs with Blankenhaus
At the foyer , they find an isolated spot, and he salute his family and told a few anecdotes to enlighten the message, ending with good wishes and the promise to be back in a month.
- I don`t know how you are accomplishing the final phrase, Captain!"- Blankenhaus said.
- Very simple: here we are already finished! From here, we could go to Earth- the Governor at Kappa could wait."- Kirk assured him. And they return to the department.
There, a dance party was on its way, and Lana takes Kirk to dance, but she was blushed with rage.
- Why are you going to tell me? "- She asked him.
- Nothing important, darling! We are almost due here, so we are going to return to Earth from here."- Kirk said.
- So, the plans are made and I must obey as a mistress?"- Lana Bickford asked him.
- As a mistress or as a lover, you can pick any name you want! You are my love in the stars- at home, I already have a family! What do you want me to do, kill them and be happy with you here?"- Kirk asked.
She didn`t reply , but she was visible irked...
After the time of the party finish, Kirk went to sleep, and so did Lana, but at another bed. She was realizing he was not to be hers as she want now: fully and for herself only! She ends by crying the rest of the night...
Blankenhaus delivered the film to the Mail Service, and in four hours, Maora receives the message back at Earth; the child saw her father, and make cooing noises...
- That man! Sure thing he has having a real time there: adventures, fighting, and some wench by night!"- Maora said to herself...
---
At twenty hours, next day, T Kool and T Kara appeared at Kirk`s rooms, and said:"- We are ready to go, Captain!"
- Fine. Are you coming with me, Lana?"- Kirk asked the woman.
- Of course! "- She said, speaking to him for the first time since the party...
In a special vehicle, who moved by radio waves, they went to the outskirts of the Capital, arriving to a fine building, in red stones, darkened by the years. Some torches were lighted in the front, where the ship descended.
- Please, follow us."- T`Kara said, and they went to the Building, finding a big hall covered with drapers and trophies ; three men were waiting there, to salute Kirk and his Second in command .
- They are Rotenko, Gutevero and Sacsamarno- Three Senators of our Kingdom."- T`Kool said, and they salute in the Vulcan way; Kirk makes a slight bow.
- We are glad to meet you, honorable Captain Kirk! "- Rotenko said, with grave voice- he was the taller of all three.
- Thanks you, Senator Rotenko! I am pleased you have time to spend with a pair of earthlings ."- Kirk replied.
- By all means! "- Senator Gutevero said.-" We heard a lot of you, and we expect a lot of you , also! But Senator Sacsamarno will explain better."-
They seated in comfortable chairs; Sacsamarno said:"- I am the father of three honorable sons- scientific people the three of them. Now they are in peril- at the other side of the Galaxy!"
Sacsamarno was a fat man of fifty years `s appearance- he had more than a hundred now- and keeps telling:"- They went there invited by a race no one knew four years hence; commercial treaties are under way, but seems they have encounter some dangers there we should have envisioned before."
- A black hole."- Gutevero said.
- Don`t kid me!- Kirk said, almost stumbling from his leather chair.
- A black hole no greater than Jupiter, but enough to swallow entire star systems one by one! Grikor is on his way- the star 633 system in the CRAB Constellation. We have all the data- but before that, here is our offer: anything you could want is yours- up to a point, of course- if you went there and bring my sons and as many Grikorians as you could."
- The place you mention is 39 light years away. In my present vessel I cannot run as fast as I should, and also, there is not enough room to save more than a dozen people ."- Kirk said, rising his shoulders.
Gutevero read on some papers, and said:"- We could lend you a greater ship- and perhaps as fast as your " Maora"; pity you should learn to use the new engines- and so a Vulcan captain would be under your command."
Kirk made a few questions about the Vulcan ship, and said:" - Better I go in my own ship! To be learning how to made the best of your ship could take the best part of our spare time! "-
Gutevero sighed, and said:"- We arrived to the same idea; pity for the Grikorians! You must take the handful you promise; perhaps only couples, and perhaps more than one child- they take little room aboard a ship."-
Kirk moved his head in assertion, and said:"- When did the Black Hole begin to be noticed at Grikorian planet?"
- Between five and six months hence! We think you could arrive there in three months."- Gutevero said.
- And the Black Hole is coming the other side?"- Lana Bickford said, for the first time.
- Not really opposite, but it is negotiable to arrive to the planet without sensing its power."- Sacsamarno said.
- My payment I will ask when returning."- Kirk said.
- Very well; we will provide you with fuel and other things you may want. "- Sacsamarno said.
- I will be asking things first thing in the morning; I will not rest until my ship takes off! "- Kirk said, rising from his seat. The others did the same, bowing in his direction; T`Kool carried them to the Hotel.
- And now, what?"- Lana asked him- they were at his suite.
- I will fly to the Maora", and we will talk with our crew; and see what we are going to need."- Kirk said.
- "And I need peace! I cannot be waiting you run to your family! Perhaps it will be better I leave the "Maora" right away."- Lana said.
- "Here at Vulcan planet? Are you out of your senses? This is no Earth!"- Kirk explained.
- And what if it is not Earth? I can travel in a luxury ship anywhere I want!"- She said, enraged.
Kirk sensed he was at a loss with her; also, a quarreling woman aboard ship will destroy his sense of duty, and the respect the crew must have for his Captain.
- Your choice. I will pay you , if you want, whatever are your wages ."- Kirk offered.
- We will see how much that will be- in the "Maora"!"- She said, so they traveled to the orbit in a shuttle, two hours later.
In the "Maora", everyone was worried when Lana said:"- I will quit this ship for personal reasons! Blankenhaus, please see how much I will receive."
Blankenhaus asked the Main Computer, and the amount was great.
- I will ask for an advance- to the Vulcans! We have a new appointment with them."- Kirk said.
- Where are we going this time?"- Blankenhaus asked of him.
- Grikor planet! A rescue trek, this time."- Kirk said.
The news makes all eyes blaze, and so the Lana Bickford loss was less sensed by those explorers...
The Vulcans receives the requests in the morning (Kirk`s time) ; Lana received his wages -plus a generous tip by Kirk- and departed in a shuttle, to the surface of Vulcan.
- There is coming a fine Starliner next week. I will wait, in order to travel with style."- Lana told the crew, before departing.
The fuel was received in mid- afternoon, and the rest of the cargo was storage before midnight.
- We are ready to go, Captain!- Blankenhaus said.
- Fine. Tune up the engines, Blankenhaus!"- Kirk commanded.
When they were already moving out of orbit, a black warship from the Vulcans called for them to receive a person.
- Who is this?"- Kirk told the warriors, when they aboard the "Maora".
- We have a new crew member for you, Sir! "- The man in charge said, and one of the soldiers rise the shield , showing T�Kara `s face.
- The Senators believe you could use me as a new member for your ship, now Officer Bickford went away; also, I could be of use when arriving to Grikor."- Said she.
- Oh, really? Well, you are welcome to the "Maora", Lady!"- Kirk said, sighing.
The other Vulcans went out and soon the "Maora" was in the move, again...
Blankenhaus present Kirk a paper, saying:"- The present crew members, Sir. Where did I put Lady T�Kara?"
Kirk read it, and said: " - As Second Officer. You are going to be the First."
- All right, Sir. "- The German said, stolidly.
"Maora" Crew for the trip to "Griko" planet :
1. Captain James Tiberius Kirk.
2. First Officer , Science Officer, Frank Blankenhaus. (German)
3. Second Officer T�Kara (Vulcan
4. Medical officer Silkie Kiesant (Male, Vulcan).
5. Chief Engineer Morian Sarcovetiz .
6. Transporter Engineer Wlad Smirnoff.
7. Ensign Pavel Adrian Jackson.
8. Exo Biologist Janice Icelon
Electromen: Ten. ( Esadam, Ebush, E
The "Maora" was moving out of the Vulcan System, when Kirk called all hands on deck, and said:"- We are in the path of a new adventure! For you who knows me, I say: this trip, if ending in good condition, will make us all rich!"
They all cheered- except the pair of Vulcan people on board.
- And now, let me present you the first Officer: Mr. Blankenhaus!"
They all applauded.
- And the Second Officer on board is going to be lady T�Kara."
They also applauded- dutifully.
- Now we all know our duties, let`s make this trip a successful one!"- Kirk said, and they all cheered him - again.
T�Kara waits until everyone were at their posts, and said to Kirk:"- I am grateful to you, Captain! You appoint me as your Second in Command, not knowing if I am - or not- ready for that post!"
- And are you?"- Kirk asked her.
- Yes; I think I am, but this kind of ship is alien to me , in some ways."- She accepted her limitations.
- There is a lot of help in the Databanks, but please ask me if you want any indication."- He said.
- Thanks; I will."- She said, not smiling .
After the waking hours, Kirk appoints the Emen onboard to keep on at the controls, saying to Esadam:"- You must wake me if any thing out of normality springs out. Understood?"
- Yes, Captain; rest assured we are going to drive as fine as your human crew."- Esadam said.
- I am counting on that."- Kirk yawned, and went to his cabin; there T�Kara was waiting- outside the door.
- You here? Have you any question at all?"- Kirk said, going inside his rooms.
- Yes; pardon me , but I was not willing to molest you in duty hours."- She said.
Kirk closed the door, and said:"- You are welcome here. Please be seated."
She seats in the verge of a chair, and he seats in the other- the rest of the room was his own bed.
- There are some signs in my console I quite didn`t understand! Please tell me what they mean."- T�Kara said, showing him , in a portatil electronic palm, what she need.
Kirk explained her dutifully, and after some forty minutes, she rise from her seat, saying:"- Well, thanks you, Captain! Now I think I know everything I need to work properly."
Kirk went to her, and kissed her lightly. She said:"- Pardon me, Sir, but I am not quite informed about your customs. What did you mean by that?"
- That I find you a very sexually interesting person."- He said, kissing her again.
- Really? A queer custom."- She said, not moving.
- Did you not feel nothing?"- Kirk asked.
- Not really; did I need to be feeling something? Mating , for us Vulcans, is a thing we do in special occasions- a marriage is needed- and the aim is to perpetuate our race- a thing it would be unlikely to be accomplished with a human being."- T�Kara said.
- Well, we human beings makes love for pleasure, too."- Kirk said.
- Ah, it`s the pleasure you are seeking!"- T�Kara said, moving fast to the door.
- Why, are you not willing to be having a little pleasure with me ?"- Kirk asked, with dusky voice.
- Not really!"- T�Kara said, and leave the room.
- This Vulcan cats!" - Kirk expounded, and went to sleep...
Soon they Hyper Jumped, and stayed there for four days; when at Hyper they were as troubled as in a nightmare, so they almost did nothing ; but when going out, they resume their obligations.
Kirk said to the crew by the Intercom : Here we have Cryogenics chambers , due to the lack of space, so we all must try to endure the complete flight awake."
The E- Men always were doing engine works , and the Humans the lighter duties. Kirk was always receiving news from the Starradio, and so he knew Spock was having riots at his Designed Planet.
Day Five.
- There are riots against Spock. " - Kirk announced at the table- as he maintains the Tradition of - at least once meal a day in common, to see everyone`s face and make a guess about his (or her) state of mind.
- Soon he will be deposed."- T`Kara said, eating a piece of lamb.
- Vulcan orders?"- Adrian asked.
- Of course. He is provoking havoc at Kappa... nobody wants one of our Colonies became and Independent State. Our strength it`s our Unity."- T`Kara said.
- Wish I could be there, to help him with my advises."- Kirk said.
- Governor Spock pays little attention to other`s opinions, Sir."- Silkie the Vulcan doctor expounded.
Kirk ends his meal, and went to see the Engine Room. Esadam was there supervising all.
- Good evening, Captain. All in order here."- Esadam said.
- Fine; hope the Dilithium Crystal is holding together."- Kirk asked.
- Of course, Sir! We have new crystals inserted when at Vulcan planet."- Esadam said.
Ebush was near, and he said:"- At this pace, we`ll need eight weeks to arrive to Griko planet."
- If it were not because of the Danger there , this would be a pleasant flight."- Kirk assured.
- How many Grikorians are you going to save, Captain? - A voice said at his back. Kirk recognized T`Kara before seeing her, so he replied:"- I wish I could save them all, Second Officer. But forty is the plausible number."
- Forty out of a thousand million lives!"- Esadam informed.
- Pity those inhabitants has not the secret of the Stars- just atmospheric planes."- Kirk asserted.
- A Little Black Hole is a threat to all Systems in the Universe. A Black little hole it`s a fast moving object; some of them had eaten entire civilizations as a monkey eats bananas."- T`Kara said.
Kirk takes her arm, saying:"- Let`s go see a machine."
She was taken to a near- by bulky machine, and Kirk said:"- This is a prototype of a cloning machine; never used before."
- From where you get it? We have nothing like this."- T�Kara said, looking at the crystal substance of the machine.
- No wonder! It was created long time ago; they give it to me in Soiferno, a distant planet- they told me this machine could duplicate a human being - or any being, if necessary- a thousand fold."
- Interesting."- T`Kara said, walking out of the Engine Room. Kirk followed her, saying:"- My offer is still standing."
- My negative likewise."- T`Kara said, and Kirk smiled briefly; to have a Vulcan companion in bed was not a exciting perspective, but he was not seeing another suitable female on board for him!
Seating at his post, Kirk asked Frank Blankenhaus :"- Next detour?"
- At star 1627, Captain! We will use its pull of gravity, of course. "- The German said.
- Ever been there?"- Kirk asked.
- Never, Sir. What, it is something curious there?"- Blankenhaus asked.
- Very. We could stop there for a while- too many days at Space makes me feel nervous."- Kirk explained.
- Four hours more,and we are going to be there."- Blankenhaus said.
- We must search for the third planet- as usual."- Kirk commanded.
STAR 1627, Planet Viscuindia.
The "Maora" vessel approaches the sun 1627 with mighty force; the skipper ( Blankenhaus this time) makes a turn and the velocity was decreased enormously, so the planet 3 was in full view twenty hours later.
- Viscuindia."- Kirk said, presenting the planet to the amazed crew.
The sun 1627 was a yellow one- small in comparison to others that the crew has seen in deep space, but suitable for human life. Around that yellow jewel, the planets were dancing their millennial dance with sparkling routine.
- Third planet at the right."- Blankenhaus said, as they were looking at the stars in the front monitor.
- Receiving a message- "- T Kara said.
- On screen."- Kirk asked.
Soon the stars were replaced by a figure in a red robe; tall and iridescent, the being said:"- Heil to the voyagers in Space! Please informs us about you."
- "Inform."- Kirk asked of the Vulcan officer.
- "Maora" space vessel on route to Griko planet; Captain Kirk commanding. We ask permission to land."- T Kara said by the starradio.
After some while, the being said:"- Humans."
- Yes, and some Vulcans too."- She said.
- Vulcans! Glad to hear that. Please follow our sound beacon, and lock unto our Space Station."- The being at the monitor said, ending the transmission.
- Do as he said."- Kirk told Blankenhaus, tapping the arm chair with his fingers...
With dexterity, Blankenhaus moves the "Maora" to the Space Station, and locked it in an empty slot.
- Locked."- Blankenhaus said, looking at Kirk.
- Fine! Open the door and let the aliens come in."- Kirk said, standing from his seat.
CHAPTER FOUR .
VISCUINDIA PLANET.
Viscuindia, located in one of the commercial routes, was a big civilization ,with more than 900 billion Cuindia beings- those were humanoids, 2.10 meters high, with polished bodies, who were not based in Carbon but in Silicon; so their eyes, mouth and so fort were almost secluded and insignificant to the eyes of an human.
Cuindia beings were known by the Vulcans before the arrival of the Humans; but little or no commercial trade existed between them. Instead, a big trade was ongoing now the humans were in the neighborhood.
Three Cuindia beings entered the Maora" vessel that "afternoon" in space ("Maora"`s time), and one of them said:"- Welcome to our world! Peace and harmony may rise for ever."
- Same to you."- Kirk said, and added:"- We are here out of boredom, Sir. I am Captain Kirk, in a commercial voyage. "
- Of course! And I am Serivonde 93, and I am in charge of the Orbital Station. This two persons here are Sardinio 3 and Gorobando 23- two admirers of the Vulcan civilization."- Serivonde said.
- Oh, you came here to see our two Vulcan crew members! Of course! "- Kirk said, calling for them.
T Kara said to Serivonde:"- Honorable Sir, wish your days will be plenty; my people had great admiration for your ways of life and achievements."
- Thank`s you, lady! We wish to inform you we have some artifacts recently found, of a Vulcan wreckage here on Viscuindia."- Serivonde said.
- Oh, it is a terrible new! And did you send notice to our home world?"- Silkie asked.
- It is an old wreckage, Sir! And most important, as the ship seems to have been a bigger one. "- Sardinio said.
- Wish we could take a look unto it."- T Kara said, looking intently.
- Why, of course! We are here to invite you!"- Sardinio said.
Kirk coughed,and said:"- It is important here to ask my permission, Sir."-
- I wish you could permit them to visit the tomb of their old fellows! "- Sardinio said.
- Granted. See? It was not too hard to be polite."- Kirk said.
- Polite we are! You are invited to depart at our Orbital Station as long as you want! We have a good Casino , serving food to the three great races that conforms the Federation of Planets."- Sardinio said.
- Good! Think I will go visiting your Casino."- Kirk replied.
The Cuindias offered to carry them to the surface in some shuttles ; Kirk and T Kara went , together with Wlad Smirnoff and Pavel Adrian Jackson.
Kirk went to the major city, alone; there, he spent some Credits at a poker table, and lost every dime in it.
- Bad luck, Captain?"- The Cuindia officer who was escorting him said.
- Yes! Let`s to to some Malls, now!"- He asked, as he was looking for novelties; in downtown he find several shops , where the Cuindians were selling artifacts and ointments, as their women likes to tint their bodies with fragrances.
Six hours later, he was back at the Orbital Station and at his ship.
By her part, T Kara was with Smirnoff, Pavel and a handful of Cuindias looking at the wreck- a freighter it was, with the crew long time gone- turn into ash themselves with the pass of the centuries.
T Kara find out how the ship was damaged a good chunk of its pope ,who was almost missing.
- Probably a Meteor."- Said T Kara. The Cuindias handed her several relics they had rescued , and -T Kara and accompaniment realize that was it and went back to the "Maora" space-vessel.
-Time to go."- Kirk announced by the Intercom , and departed from orbit.
The pass near the Viscuindia star was swift, and in that way accelerated, the "Maora" speed unto its goal, -Griko.
Time for arrival: two weeks.
- Now we can relax."- Kirk said to his Crew.
- The Cuindias are very gentle."- T Kara said, looking at the relics- several bones encased in glass boxes; acerplast objects, honorific chains corroded by the time...
- Your people will be receiving this objects with respect."- Blankenhaus told her.
- Yes, and possibly some ceremonial burial will be accomplished."- T Kara acknowledged.
That night they received messages from distant Griko. Distress calls sent to all possibly listeners...
" WE ARE THE GRIKOS, A PEACEFUL COMMUNITY THREATENED BY A BLACK HOLE! PLEASE ACKNOWLEDGE OUR CALL!"-
The message was endlessly repeated.
Kirk went to sleep- he was heavily distressed by the fact his vessel was unable to help as he should had liked.
In the morning, a shower of stones hit the hull .
- Rise shields!"-
- Shields on! Too many of them, Sir."
- Skipper! Change of course! Four degrees to Starboard!"- Kirk ordered.
But the shower of stones increased.
- What is causing this?"- Kirk asked.
- Possibly... the Black little Hole!"- Blankenhaus said.
The whole path was covered was covered with space dust. Kirk scanned all the vicinity- it seems every speck of little matter was heading to Griko System.
Kirk ordered to slow down, in an effort to lessen the force of the impacts.
- It works!"- Blankenhaus expressed.
- Fine. Keep it like that."- The Captain said.
- We will be late to our rendezvous!"- T Kara expounded.
- There is no other way, Second officer! We cannot risk to damage the hull now. Every minute counts."- Kirk said.
That day, the banging keeps on, until the 20:00 hours, when they finally passed them.
Looking backwards by the rear monitors, the crew saw the dust - hundreds of kilometers full of debris going to Griko planet.
- This will be waiting for us at our return."- Blankenhaus said.
- We will be heading to some other way."- Kirk said.
- Any other way will lead us to unknown country, Sir."- T Kara noticed.
- Well, we will make a detour"- Kirk said, rising his shoulders.
- A detour for some million years, Sir?"- T Kara said, but Kirk didn`t answer her.
Kirk went to the engine room, revising the system.
- All normal here, Sir."- Morian Sarcovetiz said.
- Good! We need all in good shape- some million miles more, and we are going to be seeing that doomed planet with our own eyes."- Kirk said.
- Poor people! Their fate is to disappear as individuals and as a race."- Sarcovetiz said.
- Of course. The worst of the lucks! But we are doomed also; some day our specie will find his final hour, and all our achievements will begin to accumulate dust in a hurry."- Kirk sighed.
- Time to feel down, Captain? "- T Kara said, enter at the room.
Kirk smiled, and said:"- Just little talk, Second officer! "
- You should use the talk for important matters only, Captain."- T Kara said, looking at some indicators.
Kirk walks out of the engine room; he went straight to the Infirmary, where he find Silkie Kiesant, asking him:"- Are all Vulcan females like T Kara?"
Silkie asked:"- Why do you want to know, Sir? She is very normal- for a young woman like her."
- She is for ever contradicting me! Always she seems to know best! Not good for the nerves."- Kirk assured.
- Ha ha! You seem very upset! Well, our women said always the truth! That is a very irksome thing, I tell you ."- Silkie said.
- You can say that again!"- Kirk exclaimed.
- What you can say, Silkie?"- T Kara asked, arriving there from the corridor.
- Oh, nothing at all!"- Silkie said.
- Nothing? "- T Kara asked again, seating in a stretch.
- To say the truth, I was saying you , Vulcan women, always say the truth- and Terrans didn`t like that much."- Silkie replied.
- So? Do you like to be cheated, Sir?"- T Kara asked .
- Not cheated! Just to hear the ... truth, in a mild way."- Kirk answered.
- In a mild way- you mean, half truths?"- T Kara asked again.
- Yes , could be so. Or to be silent- two options to deal with a terran male."- Kirk remarked.
T Kara walked out of the Infirmary, saying:"- I will meditate on this. "
Kirk rise his shoulders, and went to the Bridge...
- Soon we are going to be able to see Griko on the main monitor, Sir! "- Blankenhaus said.
- It will be a release of tensions."- Kirk sighed, and went to his cabin; he repose some minutes on his bed. Someone rings the bell of his door; Kirk said:"- Come in!"
The door mechanism opened the same, and someone enters the room.
- Take a seat, and tell me what you want."- Kirk said, rubbing his eyes.
- I am here to talk about your first offer, Sir."- T Kara said.
- What?"- Kirk looked at the Vulcan woman, who was stripping of her clothes.
- You hear that! I am willing now. I am sorry I made you suffer- you can fail in your mission just because of my refusals."- She said, and lie at his side on the bed...
Kirk could very well had dismissed her, as the next actions were going to be fulfilled out of a sense of duty on T Kara `s part, but he was not going to loose the opportunity !
Once both were naked, he begin make love to the Vulcan, who was very tense.
- First time, officer?"- He asked, kissing her long ear lobes.
- Yes, Captain. I am sorry."- She said, trembling a little...
- No need to be sorry; I will be very tactful."- He assured her, caressing his long hair...
Kirk finds T Kara very tender and sweet; she was superb, and he was delighted with his new conquest.
At six o`clock a chime began, and Kirk went to take his daily shower.
T�Kara waits until he was out of the bathroom, to get inside.
- Good morning, Jim."- She said.
- A fine morning, indeed! - Was his reply. Kirk takes fresh clothes ,and wait for T Kara.
- I guess I will precede you."- He said.
- Affirmative."- T`Kara said, beginning clothing herself with her clothes.
When Kirk arrives to the Deck, Blankenhaus told him:"- Good morning, Captain. We had advanced a lot, full speed. This afternoon we are going to dock at Griko`s main Space Orbital Port. (S.O.P.)"
- Very well; we must prepare ourselves. All unnecessary equipment, empty craters and stuff it`s going to be thrown out to-day ."- Kirk commanded. He was eager to make room for as many Grikorians as he could.
T'Kara was in charge of the Radio communications, so she said, four hours later-" Griko planet in range, Sir."
- Fine. Try to communicate with the Minister of communications, or perhaps even the President."- Kirk said.
-Trying. "- She said; some minutes later, she said:" - The Governor of Griko planet on the line, Captain."
- Tell them we are the "Maora" ship, coming for the Rescue."- Kirk said.
- The Governor wants to speak personally with you, Captain."-
- "Put him on screen."- Kirk said.
They all were able to see, for the first time, a being from Griko planet: a human.
- I am Torobizon Derre, Governor of Griko. I thanks you, Captain Kirk of the vessel "Maora" , for your kind help. Millions of human beings wants to be saved from the Black menace; pitifully, just a few will survive."
- My ship is quite small, Governor Torobizon; some thirty people more can be on board. I was asked by Senator Sacsamarne of Vulcan planet to come here, and rescue his three sons and as many Grikorians as I can; so I beg of you to send those three Vulcans to the "Maora" vessel together with whomever you wants to be saved, including yourself."- Kirk said.
The face of Torobizon went pale, but he said: - "I will see the Vulcans went to your ship, and not because your vessel is small your act is diminished. I view of our present state of affairs, I beg you not to land on our planet- it would provoke great mass disorders- in fact, I am begging of you to lock unto our Orbital Station Number One; there will be enough people there to be saved."
- "As you wish, Governor. We are arriving to your vicinity in two hours more."- Kirk said.
- "Plenty of time for me to be there. Good bye."- The Governor said, and the communication was over.
- "Guess he was eager to escape."- Janice said.
- "He has all the right to do so- he has all the past of Griko's civilization inside his Brain."- T'Kara said.
Frank Blankenhaus said: - "Our hull must be inspected, Captain. /The shower of debris hits heavily on it."
- "We are going to lock unto the SOP. and take every precaution there."- Kirk assured his Skipper.
CHAPTER FIVE .
GRIKO PLANET
The lusterless SOP. was in full view hours later- a mere speck at the side of the green- like Griko planet.
- Forty out of a thousand million humans it's pitifully small amount."- Kirk told T'Kara, when alone with her in his own cabin.
- "Better than nothing, Captain. If I may suggest you, Sir... I think you ought to save the principals- the Vulcan sons of Senator Sacsamarno."- T'Kara said.
- "Yes, and also people who could save the History of Griko's civilization for the rest of Humanity."- Kirk remembered.
- "We are going to face reality at that SOP.- possibly even a riot."- T'Kara said.
In that moment, the "Maora" lurched unto place, attached now to the Griko's SOP.
- "We locked already. Let's face it."- Kirk told T'Kara, and they both went to the lock chamber.
- "They are traversing the tube plank, Sir."- Pavel Adrian Jackson said.
Four Officers ,in uniforms, arrived there half a minute later.
-"Permission to come on-board, Captain."- One of them said.
- "Permission granted. I am Captain Kirk, and this is my second Officer T'Kara, and he is Ensign Jackson."- Kirk introduced them.
- "Glad to meet you, Sirs. I am Clairvol, Commander of this Orbital Space Station Number One.
"Our Governor is yet to come. He has meet some difficulties at the surface, with the Shuttles. But he asked me to give you our most warmly welcome, Sir."- Officer Clairvol declare.
- "Did the Governor talk to you about some Vulcans we have interested to save ?- T'Kara asked.
- Not a word, Second Officer, but you can tell me about and I will try to do my best."- Clairvol said in response.
- "Three vulcans, sons of a Senator from Vulcan- we were commissioned to save them, together with some thirty other Grikorians at our choice. We need to told this people to be here on the double; could you do this for us?"- T'Kara asked.
- I will call immediately Governor's office for to satisfy you with this matter, Second Officer. And how many of us could you carry in your ship, Captain Kirk?"- Clairvol asked, with a red face.
- "Not many, I'm afraid: forty people."- Kirk announced to the young Officer.
Clairvol looked unto his retinue; they abashed their sights, in despair.
- "And how many others has come here to the rescue of your world populace?"- T'Kara asked.
- "Five vessels, Madam. One of them a big star cruiser of the Italian Space Marine; more than five thousand people is going to be saved on-board of the "GINA LOLLOBRIGIDA"- The Griko officer announced.
-" Five thousands! A good quantity!"- T'Kara appraised.
- "We are a thousand million beings here, Captain Kirk. How could we be saved all?"- Another Grikorian speaks.
-" I am afraid many of you will die."- Kirk assured, rising his shoulders.
- "Well, my liege, please tell us what do you need to be ready to depart. Fuel ,personnel, repairs of any kind?"- Officer Clairvol asked.
-"Personnel we have enough. Also we have ten Electronic creatures at our service. Please give them back-up in the revision of our outer hull surface. We were traversing by a dust cloud in our way here."
Officer Clairvol was very interested in that final information; and after the necessary explanations by Kirk, he said, worried:"- Then it is a real danger to went to the civilized part of the Universe, already! Comfounded Black Hole, who piled up so many misfortunes over our heads!"- Clairvol remarked.
After that, the E/men went outside, helped by a handful of Grikorian , finding more than thirty holes in the surface of the hull; some of them about thirty centimeters wide.
The repairs went underway as fast as the E/men could soldered together new pieces of AcerPlast.
Kirk asked T'Kara to try to locate - by Radio- the Governor, but it was futile.
- No answers. Guess there is a lot of turmoil down there already."- T'Kara said.
- "Pity. Well, try to communicate with your people."- He asked.
T'Kara raised her right eyebrow ,but did as asked- forty minutes later, she said:- " Captain, we have a feebly star- radio communication, but the waves are being jammed by the Black Small Hole' vicinity.
- "Let's see."- Kirk said, and once in front of the Microphone, he said:'" Here is Captain Kirk, from the "Maora", speaking. Acknowledge, please."
By the loudspeaker, he heard the voice answering through forty one light years away:- " T'Rondy here. Senator Sacsamarno is occupied this time, and asked me to be forgiven. Have you accomplished your mission?"
- "No, Mr. T'Rondy. I am here having an overhauling express -little time now to wait- a cloud of dust is coming this way, attracted by the Small Dark Hole that it's approaching by the other side of the Star System."- Kirk expounded.
- "I see, but tell me if the sons of Senator Sacsamarno are with you."- T'Rondy asked.
- "The governor will bring them here. He was detained at the surface, but they are saying is a short delay. As soon as they arrive here I will call you again."- Kirk said.
-" I see. I will tell the Lord what is happening there. As soon as possibly try to have them on-board, Captain Kirk. - T'Rondy asked.
- "That I will do."- Kirk said, ending the conversation.
T'Kara said, from her post:-" That was a quick conversation you made, Captain."
-" Yeah, no need to talk too much with non executive persons."- Said he, looking troubled.
Kirk traversed the lock, entering the S.O.S. with haste. Some officers were at their posts, in some cubicles- in other big portions of the Station, lots of Grikorians were staring at the Holo TV sets, who were producing never- ending news Broadcasts.
And in many of the Stations, the recurrent figure of the Small Black Hole looming over their heads were present.
- "Five weeks more, and it will be the end of everything here."- Clairvol told Kirk, walking by one of the Corridors. Kirk followed him, saying:"- In two more days, the Repairs will be over. I wish you could hasten the selection of Refugees."
-"For me, there's no objection whatsoever. But it did not depends on my part. Governor Torobizon will arrive here- soon- and he will choose."- Commander Clairvol replied.
-"In two more days I will be ready to depart. I assume I will be very nervous , and if your Governor didn't show up by then, I will depart with whomever wants to escape."- Kirk assured.
-" I assume you will, and you have the right to do so. For my own part, I will not interfere with your decisions. "- Clairvol said.
Kirk was able to see the cities in turmoil. Down there was hardly anyone working as usual - the rich people escaped some time ago now, and were already far from the Doomed planet. The scant tourist spacecrafts takes them away months ago. Others weren't so lucky, and all their money serves them not for their eagerness to fly.
-" Pity you didn't obtain the skill to build space crafts."- Kirk told the Commander Clairvol.
-" It was the Vulcans who opposed us! Earth was willing to aid us, but the Federation has its Rules- and the Vulcan presence in high ranks it's tantalizing!"- Commander Clairvol said.
- "Guess you're right. A terrible mistake .Hope now every civilized corner of the Federation of Planets could obtain the right to build spacecrafts."- Kirk groaned.
- No need to cry over the spilled milk, now! Our civilization will end here- just a few will escape, and in due time, they will intermingled with the rest of Humanity , and our folklore and ways of life will be over."- Commander Clairvol assured him.
Two hours later, by the radio, Commander Clairvol was informed of the death of Governor Torobizon Derre, when attempting to get to the orbit in an old shuttle craft, who explode in the way up.
-They told me to proceed as best I could!"- The pale Clairvol told Kirk, aboard the "Maora".
- "I am so sorry for Governor Torobizon. He looks like a kind person."- Kirk said.
- "And I assure you he was, indeed! But now the mobs are in total control of everything public. They are running amok in every major city of Griko planet."- Commander Clairvol told Kirk.
- "I assume the Vulcans were in his shuttle?"- T'Kara asked.
- "Yes, Madame. They died, also."- Clairvol assured her.
- "Made your list, Commander! We need those people already on-board, in order to train them in our rules of behavior."- T'Kara interrupted them.
-" Yes, Madame, you are right! I will send them here to-day!"- Clairvol assured, and went back to his Station.
Kirk looked her, intently, and T'Kara said:"- We must not waste any time now, Sir! The Black Hole is coming faster!"- And she show some numbers to Kirk.
- Really! Well, we need to be ready in the scheduled time!"- Kirk said, and went to inspect the works at the hull himself.
- We are replacing every burned plank, Sir!"- Esadam told him, using the suit`s radio transmitter- receiver.
- Should you just patch the holes, no more? We are in a hurry here! A Black Hole is coming this way!"- Kirk asserted the E-man.
- I know it, Captain! But it will begin to be a dangerous notice just in three weeks more! So, what`s the hurry here, Captain? - Esadam asked.
- Perhaps you are right, Esadam, but remember the cloud of debris that is coming! It`s no joke! Also, the Black Hole could very well have some surprises for us ."- Kirk replied.
- Furthermore, Captain, where are you going to receive a complete overhaul for free? This works here will economize you thousands of Credits."- Esadam said, working steadily while he talk.
- Fine, you are a clever boy! But I guess I�ll need a drink."- Kirk told him.
- They told me the Bar at the Orbital Space Station it�s opened!" - Esadam said.
Kirk went there, and saw women and men drinking its senses away.
- "It�s free, chap! Just ask the Bartender what it `s your fancy, and it will deliver it for free!"- A fat guy about thirty years old informed him.
Kirk asked for a whisky, and the bartender- machine presents the drink when a glass receive the liquid from the bottle -dispenser. Kirk seats at a stool, seeing how a nice- looking woman approached, saying:"- Guess you are the captain of that little nut out there?"
Kirk looked her, almost enraged- she was about twenty-four years old, wearing a Griko Scientific garment.
- Yes, I am it�s Captain."- Kirk replied her.
- No offense done, eh? But they should have sent a fleet of bigger vessels, don�t you think?"- The young female asked.
Kirk swallow the rest of the whisky on his glass , and replied:-" Guess you are right. A fleet was needed here, but seems nobody cared."
- Yeah! Those Vulcans were almost sucking out our riches here- and now we are in trouble, what are they doing? "- The woman asked.
- They sent me."- Kirk replied fast.
- Yeah ! They sent a little vessel- no more!"- And the woman begin to cry, silently. Her tears were streaking across her lovely face.
- Wish I could help you! Come aboard the �Maora" now, before I change my mind!"- Kirk told her.
She rise her beautiful face, and said:"- I�ll be forever thanking you, Daddy! But I knew nobody at your vessel! Please go with me or they will think I am nuts!"-
Kirk almost smile, hearing that word again- this time referring to the lady herself!
- Take your suitcases and wait for me at the lock."- Kirk said, stumbling out of the joint.
He walked by the corridors for a while, and when seeing the woman where he told her, Kirk takes her suitcases and walked in to the "Maora".
- Give her a place!"- He told to Pavel.-" She needs to live."
- Aye aye, Sir."- Pavel retorted, taking the suitcases from Kirk�s hands...
Some hours later, forty Grikorians - both sexes- were at the �Maora" ,being giving cabins for the trip.
At the next shift, Kirk called them all to the main Deck, and said:"- Dear people, Grikorians all: I assume you are happy to depart from your doomed world, and also very sad to do so- loosing everything you owned here, and also your relatives- perhaps even your parents...
"For a safe trip to some other suitable place where to live, we will have some Regulations and Rules to obey; they are the few as possible, and because of that, I want you to take this things seriously."
T`Kara was the officer in charge to make the Grikorians learn those rules, and also made some of them Internal Policeman, as well of a Committee of Health and Welfare.
Those Committees sees that everyone takes a bath everyday, tend their beds, wash their clothes and get out of the way of the people who were in charge of the mechanisms of the spaceship- the Crew Members.
At evening of the Third day, a Star -Radio message arrives, from Vulcan.
- It`s Senator Sacsamarno, Sir."- T' Kara said.
- Kirk here. How are you, Senator Sacsamarno?"- Kirk begin.
- Fine, thanks you. You called me the other day, but I was not available. Now I am. Are you in due course with my three sons, Captain Kirk?- The Vulcan Senator asked.
- Not yet, Sir. But we are about to do so. We have not the three sons of yours on board, as they were with the retinue of Governor Torobizon Derre, when his shuttle craft explodes before they could arrive to the Orbital Station."- Kirk informed.
- Why don�t you lend them your Shuttle? Perhaps you could had retrieved them safely!"- Senator Torobizon said, with a thunderous voice.
Kirk was mute.
- Are you there, Kirk?"-
- Yes, Senator. I will depart in one hour."- He said, very troubled.
- For my part, you can do whatever your fancy now! You are fired, and forget about the money!"- Sacsamarno said, and ends the connection.
Kirk called again to Vulcan, and he finds Senator Rotenko, to whom he asks for information.
- I need to know where I am going to carry the Grikorians! Senator Sacsamarno was not too explicit."- Kirk told him.
- And what do you expect? His three sons are dead because of your ineptly! We have big plans for the Grikorians- to rise another Colony with them could be a fine thing to admire. "- Senator Rotenko said.
- Guess it will be the less thing they deserve, Senator Rotenko. We are here with forty of them, and there are millions upon millions down there."- Kirk said.
- Please, don`t put melancholic! We are doing our best! And the Vulcan Government is asking for help to all the Federation of Planet`s current members. Perhaps the Terrans could solve this Holocaust"- Senator Rotenko said.
Kirk mind went spinning when hearing that, and asked:'- And how that could be possible, Senator Rotenko? The Small Black Hole it`s already here!"
- Have you heard about the Instant Translator? A device the Terrans have for some time, now! It hasten the travel between stars, by a thousand fold!"
Kirk suddenly remembered the invention that was threatening the Cargo Vessels in all the known Universe.
- Oh, that! But it�s too late, now! A ship carrying here that device will take too much time. The Black Hole will arrive first!"- Kirk assumed.
- We are not really concerned about that now, are we, Kirk? We must do what we are supposed to do. Take that ship out of the way, and call me when you are heading Vulcan planet."- Senator Rotenko demands.
- All right, Senator! Kirk out!"- And he ends the communication.
The Commander of the Space Station come in, saying:"- I see you are about to go, Captain Kirk!".
He was escorted by two armed officers- some riots were beginning at the Space Station.
- Yes, Commander. All the people has their place, and all is in order. Are you coming with us?"
- "I wish I could! But I am the appointed Commander of this Space Station- two hundred thirty two crew members now on board! I am needed here."- Clairvol said.
- "Think it over, Commander! I can make room for you here."- Kirk repeated his offer.
Clairvol was pale, and said:"- Do not tempt a Grikor Officer, Captain! It`s enough hard for me to be staying."
Kirk rise his shoulders and give a handshake to Clairvol, saying:"- Send your officers back, Commander, meanwhile we take a glass of whisky!"
Clairvol said:"- Why not? All is falling apart."- And did what was told.
At his cabin, Kirk presents Clairvol a glass of whisky, saying:"- For Griko and its people!"
And they drink, in separate glasses. When Clairvol dumped to the floor, drugged stiff, Kirk went out and commands Blankenhaus to abandon the Space Port.
- Locking out, Sir!"- Blankenhaus said, a minute later.
After a while, they traced a chart to be out of Griko System without damage, and accelerate afterwards.
- The Black Hole is pulling us already!"- Blankenhaus informed.
- Warp seven!" - Kirk commanded, and so the vessel escaped from the peril- with forty two Grikorians on- board!
T�Kara said:"- There`s a man drugged at your cabin, as Pavel told me."
- Oh, yes! I drugged Clairvol- too kind to be dying like a cockroach at the Station!"- Kirk assured her.
- Let me send him to the Infirmary."- T�Kara asked.
- Do it! And please, search him a nice cabin."- Kirk smiled.
The �"Maora" vessel was speeding to Star ALPHECA ; soon the entire Griko System were going to be a mere speck of light at the rear monitors.
T�Kara approached Kirk , saying:"- You�ll have me at your cabin the rest of this trip; I lend mine to Commander Clairvol."
- A good notice, after all!"- Kirk sighed, and went to sleep- in her company.
In the morning, Blankenhaus handled him an electronic board, saying:"- This is the list of passengers, Sir. Some of them are sick."
- Sick? How could that be? They were from the Orbital Station!"- Kirk said with worried face.
- They informed me it was a passenger who lately come into the station , responsible of the contamination."- Blankenhaus said.
- I will talk with the Doctor."- James T. Kirk said.
AT the Infirmary, five patients were in stretchers, with Doctor Kiesant attending them.
- Hello, Doctor. What is happening here?"- Kirk asked.
- A mild attack of flu, Sir. A strange case; a mutant cepa."- Kiesant said putting aside the syringe.
Three women and two men were there, red with fever...
- I am Kirk, your Captain. How do you feel?"- Kirk asked to one of the Grikorian man.
- As hot as a carbuncle, Sir! This flu must be a damnation, in punishment for our flee from Destruction."- The man said.
- Do not think in those terms, my friend! You have a right to be alive, such as every of us! The Black Hole is nothing more than a natural object in space- pity your planet was in their path. Be brave! You will be well."- Kirk told him.
Kiesant was drying the perspiration from one of the women�s face with a cloth.
- High fever, coughing... it also attacks the Kidneys."- Doctor Kiesant remarked ; he went to another of the patients, take temperatures with the Tricorder.
- Are we in danger of to be infected, Doctor?"
- Of course. Guess the incubation period is on- going. I will administrate you a shot of a special coctel of mine."- Kiesant said, and searching for a syringe, sting Kirk in one of his arms.
- Not totally effective, I presume. I�m aiming at diminish the flu to a minimal degree."- Kiesant said, putting aside the syringe...
Three women and two men were there, red with fever...
- Are they going to be well?"- Kirk asked.
- I don`t know, Captain. I am doing the best I can, with the equipment we have."- Kiesant replied.
- We need a better research Laboratory."- Janice Icelon said, approaching. She, as an Exo- Biologist, has a lot to say.
- Guess you didn`t identify the germ?"- Kirk asked her.
- It�s a mutant specie. Guess it was produced in a Lab."- Icelon explained.
-Warfare. Chemical weapon; a virus made to kill?"- Kirk asked, sensing the horror of that information.
- Of course! Somebody, in the Govern, believe it was better to kill people with a disease, than to wait for the total destruction the Black Hole was to produce."- Janice Icelon said, with tears in her eyes.
- "Sir, there is an object following us."- A voice said at Kirk's back. He turns, seeing it was Pavel Adrian.
- "Let's see. "- Kirk replied, running to the Deck.
- "A class G Destroyer, Sir!"- Blankenhaus said, pointing to a speck of light in a rear Monitor.
-" Distance?"- He asked.
-" 30.000 Kilometers, Sir. Approaching at great speed. In three minutes it will be at our side."- Frank Blankenhaus exclaimed.
-" Communication Officer, please tell me something."- Kirk asked.
-" No response at all, Sir. I had tried every range frequency, to not avail."- T' Kara replied with utmost calm.
-" Great! Pirates or some kind of freaks. Skipper, let's use maximum Warp Speed. Now!" -Kirk commanded...
They were traveling at Warp 3; Blankenhaus set the Engines to produce Warp Eight... the maximum the "Maora" vessel could make.
Morian Sarcovetiz came from Engine Room , to say: " -At this pace, Captain, we will strain the circuits too much! The "Maora" could fuss the main drive in half an hour, if we keep on traveling at the present speed."
-"All right, Chief Engineer; I take notice of what you say... Pavel! How far are our pursuers now?"
Ensign Pavel A. Jackson were scanning the "enemy" vessel with a radar, and said:"- We are gaining some distance ahead of them, Sir."
-"Good. We'll keep racing through normal space, but I guess we'll need more than that. Frank! Compute some Hyper Jump right away- to a known Star, that is."- Kirk ordered.
- Computing."- Blankenhaus acknowledged.
-" Missile incoming." T'Kara said.
-"Time to impact?"- Kirk asked.
- "Three seconds."- Said she.
Kirk banged the red button at Blankenhaus console, and the whole ship went into Hyper Space just in time to avoid the lethal enemy missile, who went past the former target, and get lost in the Infinite.
The passage was short- it was aimed to Star 1069 in THE CRAB Constellation, as Blankenhaus told Kirk, when re- entering normal space.
- No signs of our pursuers?"- Kirk asked to Frank.
- Not until now, Sir. It all depends in how much it's captain is interested in us."- Blankenhaus said.
This, because it is possibly to track a fugitive vessel, studying the recent changes in the composition of the Hyper Space - inside certain limits.
Kirk studied the neighborhood. Star1069 was in front- in effect, they were going there at Warp Six.
-" Diminish to Warp Three!"- Kirk ordered, and Blankenhaus react instantly.
Frank was also scanning the vicinity, searching the best angle to set a new course...
- I am locating 639 and 1627 , Sir! Guess we can move from here- in case the enemy keeps on the searching."- Blankenhaus said.
-" All right, Skipper! Set new course!"
- New Course set. Two seconds for Hyper Jump "- Frank Blankenhaus announced.
They all re- entered Hyper Space - again- ; Kirk was wandering if such a hurry was necessary. But, unbeknownst to him, the Enemy vessel DID appeared in the vicinity of his first Jump.
- Scan all the surroundings! I want Kirk kneeled in front of me! "- Khan said, banging a console...
Fortunately, Kirk was nowhere insight.
After a week, Khan was sure... - " Again he escape from my revenge! No matter! I will follow him even if he crosses the Gates of Hell!"
STAR 639 AT CRAB CONSTELLATION = " FOGATA".
Kirk arrives to 639 planetary system; Blankenhaus said:- "There is a Earth Colony here, Sir. They will take care of our sick passengers."
Kirk was very worried. Ten of the forty two passengers from Griko were dead...
- "I am receiving a message from "Fogata 3" , Captain."- T'Kara said.
-" Tell them we are a rescue ship coming from doomed Griko planet. Ask for medical help."- Kirk asked her.
Soon, they were guided by five shining vessels, and locked to a Orbital Station.
-"Soon they will arrive some medics here, Captain."- T'Kara announced- as she was in Radio contact with the "Fogaters".
Using the lock , seven astronauts gets into the "Maora"; they were using the helmets on.
- Welcome to Fogata Three, Sirs! I am Fastin Demer, Doctor in Chief of this Hospital Station."- One of them said; Kirk saw his face through the crystal.
- I am Kirk, Captain of the "Maora" private vessel. We came from Griko planet , with some people rescued at that planet. Pitifully , a disease was brought from that doomed planetary system!"-
- Have you a Medic on board? "- Fastin Semer asked.
- Yes. I present you Doctor Silkie Kiesant."- Kirk presents the doctor on board.
Between Kiesant and the staff of the Fogater doctors, begin a lengthy conversation and visit to the Infirmary and several other places of the "Maora"; everyone of the Grikorians was seen by the doctor Fastin Semer and his group.
Finally, Semer return to the presence of Captain Kirk, saying :"- This ailment it's real grave. In our Station we have fine equipment to fight any disease. Permit us to take your patients to our place."
-"Permission granted, Doctor Semer. Also, our Doctor Silkie Kiesant is afraid we also could be contaminated."- Kirk told him.
-" That is a possibility, Captain Kirk, but be assured I will work as fast as it is possibly! I will send personnel to take samples of blood, tissue and others, from each one of you."- Doctor Semer said, and departed to the Station.
The Grikorians were carried a little later; each one in a plastic uniform, that has a plastic helmet with air provision.
In the "afternoon" of that day, several nurses, clothed in plastic uniforms and helmets, get inside the "Maora" , and take samples of the Crew.
-"We will inform you soon of the results ".- The chief of the nurses told Kiesant.
- "We will be waiting."- Said he.
The Fogaters informs T'Kara through the radio, about the death of two more Grikorians.
That night, T'Kara , bedded with Kirk, said:-" If we have that disease, James, I see it difficult we could survive."
-"Why did you say that? We are among friends- the doctor Semer seems to be an able man."
-" Possibly, but this infirmities are scientifically produced - once in the blood, there's little chance to keep on living!"- T'Kara said.
Kirk remembered all his precedent life, and give a profound sigh. He was eager to be living- he was not ready to die!
In the morning of the next "day" , Fastin Semer come back, with two other doctors. They were using plastic dresses and helmets.
-" Captain Kirk ! I have news for you and your crew: the disease it's not present in your bodies."
- "How come that?"- Kirk asked.
- " Engineered in a Laboratory, the disease attack in a deadly way, to Grikorians. For you and crew , the disease has no consequences."- Doctor Semer said.
Kirk smiled, but then he frowned, saying: "- And what about the Grikorians?"
- We are doing our best, but three more of them died this morning."- Semer informs.
In the next week there, Kirk was being informed about the death of more and more Grikorians- until the last ends his days at the Fogater Infirmary.
Kiesant was present- daily- at the Clinic of the Orbital Station. When the last die- a man- he come back to the "Maora" in silence.
- Doctor Semer ask you to go to the O.S., Captain."- He said. And Kirk went ; he saw the 39 coffins near a lock, waiting to be "buried" in space.
- I call on you, Captain Kirk, for to be present in this sad burial."- Semer said. Everyone there was without the plastic helmets.
- "Thanks. It is with a grievous heart that I come here in this dark hour."- Kirk said.
He saw the coffins fly away into the stars- the last one disappeared, everyone goes back to his work, with a leaden heart.
Kirk ask Semer for the use of a powerful Star/radio he knew they have; Semer authorized him, so he called to Vulcan planet, and talked with Senator Rotenko:
- Kirk here. Bad news. We managed to rescue at Griko planet, and with great personal danger, forty two Grikorians, among them the Commander of the Orbital Space Station Number one. "
- And what happened , that you are saying there are bad news?"- The icy voice of Rotenko asked.
-" Because they come aboard with a terribly engineered disease- something like a terribly flu. Our doctor on board was unable to cure them, and so we stopped at Fogata Orbital Station; here they tried to cure them, with better equipment, but it was useless. The last Grikorian died some hours ago."- Kirk informed.
- I understand. There are news for you: a special Cruiser from the Federation of Planets , the "Lauro Punales", arrived at Griko planet and is using a Translator Temporis, to send all Grikorians to Wesix System."
Kirk replied:- " Hope they are not sick! Did you know something about that?"
- Not a word- yet."- Rotenko replied.
-"From here I will go to see my friend Spock. Hope you can sent me a million credits to planet "Fogata 3 ."- Kirk asked.
- " Spock is no longer Governor of KAPAA 3 ... He was removed. So he is traveling to Vulcan."- Rotenko said.
- Tell him I will go there, too."
- " Very well. We'll be expecting you."- Senator Rotenko said, and hung off.
Kirk told what was happening with Grikorians to his crew.
-" ...and my friend Spock was removed as the Governor in Kapaa 3 ..."- Kirk ends by telling his crew members.
- "Better for him . His life was at stake."- T'Kara uttered.
- Where now, Captain?"- Pavel asked.
- "Vulcan. I cannot leave my friend in disgrace ."- Kirk said.
They all put a grim face- except the two Vulcans.
- When with him on board, we're going to have a small vacation in Earth." - Kirk promised; then all the people cheered , and prepared the "Maora" for the voyage.
That night, Blankenhaus told Kirk:-" Sir, I would like you to call your family now. It is about time."
- Really."- Kirk acknowledged...
-When are you going to be here? I almost didn't remember your face!"- Maora told him.
- I finished my job with the Vulcans, Sweetie! Now I am preparing to go home."- Kirk assured her.
- Hope you are not cheating me! Your daughters needs a little of the time of their father."- Maora said.
- I believe that in two or three weeks more , we are going to land on Earth. We are awfully away now, dear."- Kirk said.
- "I will be waiting for you, darling."- Maora assured.
After the conversation, Kirk told T'Kara to say good bye to the Fogaters -using the radio- and deploy ship to Vulcan planet.
- "Right away, Sir!"- She said, and in one hour elapsed, the tiny little spaceship began it's trek home.
That night, T'Kara said:-" There's a new glint in your eyes, James. What is it?"
- I called home- and told Maora I am going to arrive there soon."- Kirk asserted.
She looks at him for some time, and said:- " So you are "walking back home"- not with me, of course. I am not "home" , but your "darling in the sky". Isn't it ? "
- "You are my darling, all right. I love you. But Maora is waiting for me since my depart in a mission. With her I have two daughters."
- "And none with me."- T'Kara remembered.
- "Not possibly, also. Humans and Vulcans aren't compatible."- Kirk assured.
-" For some other things we are compatible."- T'Kara remembered.
- "Of course. Tell you what: I will be "home" for some months only; my work it's to be traveling through space. In three or four months , we'll be together again. What do you say?"- Kirk asked.
- "I will think it over. Not an easy question to answer."- T'Kara said, and turn the other way in their bed.
Kirk stayed there, looking at the ceiling of his chamber. He was an astronaut, a Captain married with the stars. If a woman wants him, she should be always at his ship. He wasn't a loyal husband, staying months on end without a woman in his arms. That was known to all the people who knew him better...
- "Stop thinking so hard! Your cog wheels made such a noise!"- T'Kara said, and embracing him, offered her sweet lips to be kissed.
Blankenhaus, at the controls, ends his calculations- with the Computer's aid; three weeks to arrive to Vulcan planet !
- How many weeks, First Officer?" - Pavel Adrian Jackson asked.
- Three weeks, Ensign. Not too much to do now we are out of the Hyper Space. Vulcan is this way , now."- He said, pointing to Starboard.
- There is some other vessels going there."- Blankenhaus said, looking the radar.
- It figures. We are in a commercial route, now. No Black Holes lurking around here.-" Pavel Adrian Jackson said.
Three weeks later, they landed on Vulcan Spaceport, and Captain Kirk said:- No need to be here, mates! We are all going to an Hotel, and you will wait for me there- I must collect money from those Senators."
- How good it is ! I was being afraid to be waiting here, where for so many days we had been secluded!"- Pavel said, smiling.
They went to the " Taishing Hotel", near the Spaceport. Kirk went immediately to see his patrons, as T'Kara made the appointment in advance.
- The Senators are waiting you."- A servant said, when they arrive to the mansion.
- Please stay calm! They are Vulcans and know how to refrain their emotions!"- T'Kara asked of him.
Kirk grumbled, but say nothing...
In a big room, the three Senators and two other persons - females- were present, and they all stand up and salute- the classical hand salute of the Vulcans.
- Glad to be back. Pity I cannot bring your sons, Senator Sacsamarno."- Kirk said.
- Please be seated, Captain Kirk."- Senator Rotenko said, with a wide gesture of his arm.
Kirk looked at the women; all in black, seemed to him the widows of those killed because the Black Hole in Griko planet.
- Those two ladies are the widows of T'Ferion and Sacsamarno. They wished to be here , when the person who was to save their husbands appeared to collect his check."- Sacsamarno remarked icily.
- Ladies, I detest to be the cause of more grief to your mourning. Some times Destiny thwarts every effort a man could do to realize something, and this was one of those cases. Governor Torobizon Derre was traveling to the Space Station with them, when his shuttle vessel explodes in mid-air. There were no survivors."- Kirk said.
- Do you know that more than eighty per cent of all the Griko populace is now safe at Wesix System ...?"- Sacsamarno asked him.
- I was ignorant of that, Senator, but I am glad to hear that. We saved from the surface of the doomed planet forty two Grikorians, who died afterwards from a genetic engineered disease. All of my travel there and back was filled with disgrace."- Kirk remarked.
- Perhaps if you had sent a shuttle from your vessel, this tragic histories would never had happened. One resolute captain, with a modern shuttle at his disposal, just simply waits for my sons to arrive at his side, without moving a finger!"- Sacsamarno said.
Kirk didn't reply - he was thinking those same questions since the disgrace begun. Perhaps he was a little too interested in T'Kara's caresses to think clearly...
- My husband was a good Vulcan male, Captain Kirk. He didn't deserves to die- and so young! Do you know his age?" - A female asked him.
- Not a clue, Madame.
- Thirty four years! And now you tell me, is that age enough life for a Vulcan male, who could live more than eight hundred years?"- She asked again.
- Of course not, Madame, and I am awfully sorry for that! But the milk was spilled , the dice rolls and told us we loose. Not a thing to do , now."- Kirk said.
- We have your check, Captain Kirk. We are going to pay you half of what you requested, because you just made a round trip for nothing! And we were considering the option of to be paying you absolutely nothing at all! But we cannot risk the good name of Vulcan people, so we presents you this check for five hundred thousand Credits."- Senator Gutevero said, handling him the plastic sheet that, inserted in any computer with connection with the Interplanetary Bank, will deposit the money at his account.
- I take the money, as I am a poor man and I have obligations with my crew- if it was for my own part, I would receive nothing."- Kirk said, taking the card.
- I was with him all the time, Senators; and what he said is true. The Governor uses an old fashioned shuttle, so the odds was against him. Now I ask you to forgive Captain Kirk and perhaps also myself, for this failure."- T'Kara said.
Nobody said nothing in reply, and Kirk takes T'Kara's hand, and walks out of the room.
- No need to be there being humiliated a minute more."- He said.
T'Kara said nothing, but she was breathing hard...
Once at the "Taishing Hotel", Kirk reunites them all round a table, and said:- "We collected half the payment."
They all complained bitterly, and when the voices of hanger dwindled away, Kirk said:- "It is not as good as before, but I can say we can afford to feel happy- it could had been worst."
- They even considerate the option of not to pay Captain Kirk for his voyage, due to the reason that he come back without the sons of Senator Sacsamarno."- T` Kara said.
- But those people should realize Captain Kirk has nothing to do with the Shuttle's explosion!"- Pavel said.
- Well, my friends, here I have five hundred thousands. I made my calculations beforehand, and I need two hundred thousands to makes the "Maora" fly safely to Earth , all payments included. That leaves three hundred thousands for us. I will take the same share as you, considering we are in a special situation here. So, being eight persons, each one of us will receive 37.500 Credits."
They all keeps the silence on-going... The wages were scant and not the good chunk everyone was believing beforehand...
- But we are wasting our time here, Captain! This planet is a gloomy place! No way that I will spend a dime here!"- Pavel said.
They all agreed (except the two Vulcan crew members).
- We can depart when we decide! But first, of course, I must to ask Doctor Kiesant if he is going to keep on board, or he will leave the ship, to be in his own home- world now."- Kirk said.
- I will descend the ladder, Captain. Too many years in high space- there were enough for me! So , please, comrades, take my leave with high spirits."- Silkie Kiesant said.
Kirk went to the computer, and divided the money between them all, as he said.
T'Kara said:" I will leave the "Maora" too, Captain Kirk. My family is here, and I want to spend some time in this "gloomy planet" of mine."
- Suit yourself, but do not forget I have a true feeling for you."' Kirk said.
The two aforementioned persons leaves the Hotel that very afternoon; meanwhile, Blankenhaus went to the piers, where he managed to enroll another Doctor, a female Vulcan of about thirty (earth -looking ) years.
- I present you Doctor Atia T'ram. She has all her papers in good order."- Blankenhaus presents her to Kirk.
- Good! Send the useful information to the Authorities here- as you know , the Regulations says that every starship must have a Doctor in its payroll! And Doctor Atia T'ram, welcome to our humble ship."' Kirk said, eyeing her with a keen eye.
Atia T'ram smiled gently, and said nothing. She has the superb bodies of the Vulcan females, and her face was good looking, with a big pair of eyes.
- Take her to the "Maora" now, Blankenhaus. She must be eager to see her new dominions on-board."- Kirk said, and they went out of the Hotel as quick as they enter.
- Mr. Spock is coming to-morrow, Sir.' - Pavel said, a little later, coming from the telephone.
- Oh, yeah? And why not to-day?"- Kirk asked, with a strange feeling of impending disaster.
- He told me he was at the antipodes, doing some ritual of him."- Pavel said, rising his shoulders.
- Well! Another day in this gloomy place! I'll be in the Bar, if they call me."- Kirk said to Pavel, and went downstairs...
At the Bar, he asked for a double whisky, and seated on a stool, looked at the people there- mostly Vulcans, drinking those blue liquids they loved so much. Some of them were utterly drunk, but stayed on their stools with dignity .
- Say, are you a terran, buddy?"- A voice asked at his right ear. Kirk turn his head, and saw a Vulcan , big shouldered and stinking of "Nudged", the cheapest of old liquors in the known Galaxy.
- And what if I am?"- Kirk replied, with hostility.
- No harm done, pal! I am here, sober as a tree, asking as a gentleman if you are that Kirk or not! A simple question, buddy!"- The drunken Vulcan said, seating at the next stool, with his glass -almost empty- in his right hand.
- Yes, I am that Kirk! And now, what?"- He replied.
- Nothing at all, buddy! I just heard somebody mention there was a terran who was paid to be rescuing some sons of a Vulcan Senator- and come back empty handed! Why it was so, I ask myself? Out of cowardice, or simply he just never went there?"- The Vulcan said.
Kirk takes him by the collar, and hits him hard with his fist. The Vulcan fly in the air and landed in a table, where some others were drinking... One of them, seeing his suit dripping liquor all over, went to Kirk, and gives him a punch. Kirk reeled for some time, and then he fights the Vulcan with all his might- as the guy has more than 1.95 meters high!
The fight ends when the Police enters the Bar, and Kirk and his opponent ends in the rear part of a Police car.
At the Station, he was finned with 299 Credits- or five days in jail.
- I have a spaceship to aboard! So I will pay you."- Kirk told the Judge, and so he was out in the street some time past.
He went to his Hotel, takes a shower and went to bed- he wasn't interested in any more fights!
At dawn, some knockings at his door awakened him, and went to open it with his underpants on.
- What is happening?"- Said he.
- I am here, Jim! You sent for me, remember?"- Spock said, smiling from the threshold.
- Spock!"- Kirk said, embracing his friend.
- Come inside, Spock!"- Said he, afterwards.
Spock was dressed in a Vulcan tunic, and he seats at a chair, leaving a heavy suitcase at his side.
- Why are you in this low- class Hotel? Did you not collect your wages from Senator Sacsamarno?" - Spock asked.
-How do you know that?"- Mused Kirk , seating in his bed.
- Because you should be in a luxury Hotel! I know you like them best!"- Spock said, moving a hand in mid- air.
- You have right! But those Senators did pay me , if only the half part! They told me they were willing to pay me not, but as they has a reputation to maintain, the half part it was! "- Kirk explained, putting his pants on.
- They should had think it better! You deserve your money, entirely! You are not responsible if a Space Shuttle exploded before your eyes!"- Spock said.
- Yes, all of this I had thought it over and over ! But what I am going to do? Sue them? They are in their Home planet, and I am willing to go to my own! A law suit last months ! And I don't want to be here, waiting and wasting my money for days on end!"- Kirk said.
Spock clashed his hands, saying:' But my friend, you are not alone at this planet! I have something to say, also! I offer you my lawyers- they could very well take the other half part from those callous Senators that hired you, and also a chunk more for the delay! And you not need to be here all the time! All you need is to start the law -suit and the lawyer will do the rest! When the trial is over, you will have a good amount more in your Bank Account! "' - Spock explained him.
- Fine. Do it ! I will sign whatever!"' - Kirk said.
Spock called his lawyer by the cell phone, and after that, he said:- He is coming on the double! But, by the meanwhile, I must say I want a place at your ship! I am having some troubles here- later I can explain to you- but it is better for me to be out of the way- for some time, at the least!' - Spock said.
- No need to explain me anything! But explain all the while! It will be fine!"- Kirk said, laughing a lot.
- End of your laughing? Well, Jim, I will explain it to you- on board! Here, in Vulcan, the walls has hears! And we are waiting a Lawyer."- Spock said.
Kirk finished his clothing, and said:- T'Kara deserted me! All because I am going to Earth, to visit Maora and my two daughters! I told her I was coming back, in some six months elapsed, but nothing!"
Spock sighed , and said:- Vulcan females are the strangest of all creatures in the known Universe! So please, don 't ask me her motives to be leaving this vessel! "
Kirk seats at the verge of his cot, and said:- "I will be at Earth for some months, only. If you are going with me, you will be there too! Has that perspective some problem with you?"
- None whatsoever! As I told you, I prefer to be far away and beyond! And I guess you would invite me to visit your house!"- Spock said.
- Of course, my friend! And to be living there, too! As I remember, you are a very quiet kind of guy, and acts as if you are not there at all! So, even Maora will have no complaints!"- Kirk said.
- We'll see about that final part- there. Well, after the Lawyer, what are you supposing to do?- Spock asked.
- Travel to the "Maora", set sails to Earth! And be happy!"- Kirk smiled.
- Fine.' - Spock said, waiting.
The Lawyer appeared some twenty minutes later; he apologizes for the delay, listened to Kirk, recording it all. Then, he said:' - A simply case of to collect the money you deserve and that those people declare , in the initial phase of the contract, to pay. Have you any witnesses?"
- Only in the final part of the job- a Vulcan lady, Miss T' Kara." - Kirk said.
- Fine, and she is in Vulcan, I suppose"- The Lawyer said.
- Yes, but I don't know her whereabouts.' - Kirk said.
- No problem here, Mister! We Vulcans have an exact database! She will be find and I am sure she will speak in your behalf. Now, if you sign this cards with your fingerprints..."- And Kirk puts his fingers on a special plastic card, beginning in that way the lawsuit against the Three Senators!
Some hours later, and all aboard the "Maora" spaceship, Kirk said to the assembled crew:' - Now we are going to travel to Earth, and having some new officers on board, I must say Miss Atia T'ram will work as the Doctor on board, now that Silkie is not here. And Mr. Spock , a good friend of mine, will be the Second Officer, replacing Miss T'Kara, who was home-sick."
They all smiled, as they already know why the Vulcan lady was out!
With Frank Blankenhaus easily maneuvering the "Maora" out of the Vulcan planetary System, Kirk and Spock talked freely at the Captain' s cabin...
- Your law suit will be successful, Jim. The lawyer is the most famous one. Never had lost a case."
- And how he did it? Pay the Jury?' - Kirk asked.
- Of course not! He takes only the cases where he believes he will win! So, if he receives your case, it's because he know he will win !" - Spock explained.
- And why are you so hurry to went out of your mother planet?"- Kirk asked.
- Remember I was appointed Governor at Kapaa ? And the cargo I sent here with you? Well, it was a valuable cargo ! And some people back at Kapaa smells something of what I did! But with no proofs ! And I was told a Spaceship with a bunch of lawyers were arriving to Vulcan, to pin me down ! "- Spock said.
- Pity to you, my friend, they can begun the law suit without you! And wherever you go, the long arm of Vulcan law can follow!"- Kirk explained.
- Not so, Jim! Our law is different than the Terran law! A law suit cannot begun if the accused is not in Vulcan! So, it is very easy to prevent being sued- you just have the necessary informants and a fast spaceship ! "- Spock explained.
- Clever boy! Good for you! Pity the Earth has not improved the law as you Vulcans! "- Kirk said, with a smile.
- I have enough money now, as to be living without hardships! Perhaps I will stay at Earth for a long period of time." - Spock said.
- Be welcomed ! For my part, I cannot be too much in a planet. In three months I will be departing for space again." - Kirk told him.
Spock rise from his seat, and said:- Well, Jim, now we are not in a Federation vessel, and as we are mere citizens, I am happy to travel in your company, as a friend. And perhaps ,me too, will fly away with you- in three months more!"
And he went to his cabin, to sleep.
Frank Blankenhaus sets the controls for an Hyper Space jump, and told everyone on board, through the Intercom : " Attention! Hyper Jump in five minutes! "
And he repeated the message several times more, until the Jump was made. Kirk was at his cabin, but strapped to the bed.
The Hyper Jump was successful, and the voice of Blankenhaus said, by the radio: " Hyper Jump ended! Solar System in sight! "
Kirk knows the time of arrival- to the Pluto Base- was three days elapsed, so he get asleep after the safety belt was unfasten.
In the morning, they saw several big Cruisers speeding up to the Solar System, and
Spock communicate with them. Afterwards, he said: "They are the Second Fleet coming from the Fringes of Orion! "
- Ah! A war was fought there- guess some intruders from the Sixth Quadrant!"- Kirk remembered.
- The war was over- the invasion thwarted! And this ships we are seeing come here to release troops and also some injured Spacers are in them. "- Spock said.
Kirk went to the Infirmary, and saw Doctor Atia T'Ram there.
- Good morning, Doctor Atia! "- He said.
- Good morning, Captain Kirk! Ready to be injected?" - She asked, smiling .
- Why? I have the Universal injection for this year in my system!"- He said.
- This one is needed where we are heading, Captain! A severe case of Hepatitis Mutant 3 is on-going at Earth! All crew members will require to be injected- I receive news , via Star/ Radio, last night."- Atia said, walking to Kirk with a syringe.
He resisted the impulse of went running out of there, looking the fine legs of the fine woman. She did her job, and said:- You see? It didn' t hurt much!"
Kirk takes her by the arm, and said:- You are very beautiful, Doctor."
- And what that has to do with the injection?"- She asked, very calm.
- Nothing at all! But I invite you to dine tonight with me' alone and in my cabin."- Kirk recited eagerly.
Atia T�Ram looked the floor for just a moment, and rising her eyes, she said:' I find this very unusual, Captain, but as you are a gentleman, and I am a lady, I see no harm in saying yes."
- That is a good girl." - Kirk said, and departed.
Atia seats on a chair, and think. She knew all about Kirk; he was known to be a lady- chaser, so it was not novelty to see him coming her way! Also, she was almost an alien in an terran ship and a friend was to be welcomed- specially if it was the Captain!
Kirk walked on cushions all day long; he was certain a new romance was to begin, and he remember the body of Atia. At lunch hour, he loomed by the corridors, expecting to see her- and so he did!
- Hello, Atia! Are you going to lunch, now?- He asked, in a casual manner, when she went out of the Infirmary.
- Oh, hello! Er... yes, but not immediately! I need to see Hydroponics for a second, first."- She said, blushing all over.
- May I accompany you? I mean, to lunch?"- He asked, nervous as a student.
- I don't know... what the crew will think of us? Better we just take dinner together, yes?"- Atia asked.
- Fine, fine! I will not bother you any more! - Kirk said, and went away. Atia was very upset; Kirk was beginning to appears as a lady- chaser all right! And she was not sure if she was willing to be chased!
She enters Hydroponics, and takes some lettuces, tomatoes and some chili for her lunch- she loves terran vegetables! With them in a paper box, she went to the Dining room, and asked for smashed potatoes and a piece of white cheese, and a bread. Also she asked for a drink.
Seated in a corner, she unpacked her lettuce and the rest, and eats in a tranquil state until the Captain went inside the room, eyeing her from the door.
- What did he think he is doing now!"- Atia almost said , and blushing, she went out in a hurry, not even looking at the man.
Kirk was in disgrace! He asked for smashed potatoes and a steak; it was not a good idea to get inside when Atia T�Ram was there eating- now she just didn't finish her meal! And by the face of her, Atia was enraged with him!
Kirk eats in silence, but then Spock come inside, and after being served, he seats in front of him.
- What is troubling you, Jim? You have a terrible face!"- Spock said.
- I wish you didn't ask, but you already did! So I will tell you: I 'm in love."
- Aha! Again? And who is the beauty, if I may know it?"- Spock asked.
- A Vulcan woman. She has a nice face, and a good body. "- Kirk replied.
Spock eats a little of his meal, and said:- " My friend, you are about to arrive to Earth, where your wife and two daughters are waiting for you, and you want to mess in a love affair! What will you do with the lady, with just a handful of days ahead?"- Spock asked.
Kirk moves his head, saying:- I never stop to think about when the heart commands me! I just move along, that is all! "
- I see. So you didn't need my advice, after all. You just follow your heart, and made a mess out of your life. I will detest to see your marriage go astray. Maora is a good woman, and a faithful one."- Spock said.
- And what do you know if she is faithful or not? "- Kirk asked, troubled.
- I have information coming for me ! I seek the welfare of my friends! And I was a governor- I have access to information you just could not dream I am receiving!"- Spock said, humbly.
- Yeah! A faithful woman! And two daughters... well, I will postpone my dinner with her!"- He said, sighing .
- No need to! You just don't put your hands where it is not supposed , and all will be fine. A serious dine, and nothing else. "- Spock said.
Kirk finished his plate, and smoke a cigar, saying:- I wonder why are you not married."
- But I am!"- Spock said.
- What? And when did you married, that I wasn't invited?"- Kirk asked.
- At Vulcan planet- do you remember I was not in the capital city, when you asked for me? I was marrying myself to a delightful heir! "- Spock informed.
- A heir! Is she rich?' - Kirk asked, amazed.
- A rich heir, of course! She has my age, and she was a widow. Now she is my wife, but we discuss our marriage , and I asked a time to relax and think about ourselves- a two year span- and she said yes, she was thinking the same way! So we will be separated for two years, and when the time ends, we are going to live in the cottage she has in The Green Forest. "- Spock said.
- I wish I could met your wife, some day. She must be a beauty."- Kirk said.
- Of course she is! I could not do other way! Beauty and intelligence are in her, intertwined in a strange way. She has a degree in Medicine."- Spock said.
- A doctor! And her name?-- Kirk asked.
- Lina T'Runshi. His father is a Senator in Vulcan planet. Very rich people, those T'Runshi. Very convenient for a retired astronaut like me."- Spock said.
- You see? Vulcan people always do things using their brains! And I, using always my hearth for everything! No wonder I don't grown up!"- Kirk said, laughing.
At last, they arrive to the Starport of Washington, where Pavel said:" Let's go home, now!"
- We are on leave, mind you all!"- Kirk said to his crew. - "I will be needing you in three months elapse. The "Maora" will be waiting for us! So, please, stay in touch! All we need is space unbound."-
They were at a corridor, with everyone laughing and smiling- except the two Vulcans.
Pavel and the rest of the humans went away in different aerotaxi; Doctor Atia T`Ram said:"- I'll be here in three months more! I will visit every place in Earth I had heard so much about!"
- Take care. There are lots of bad people here."- Kirk told her.
-" I'll be careful. Good bye!"- She said, and went away.
-" I'll be at the "Bradbury Hotel", Jim. I need to do some errands here on Washington. You give me your address and phone number, in Chile, so I will be there in fifteen days more- no need to go now as you have so much to discuss with your wife Maora".- Spock said.
- Fine, my friend! We'll be in touch."- Kirk told the Vulcan, and went to take a international rocket to his house.
Maora heard of him by the telephone. (Kirk called her when flying over the Amazon) and was glad to hear he was on his way home.
-"We're in the Autumn here- June- and perhaps it s a little cold ,so please put on a sweater before landing."- Maora told Kirk.
- Fine, darling. I have some presents for you and our daughters."- Kirk said.
- I have a surprise for you, too."- Maora Noemi said, smiling.
-I' m arriving there at 13.30 hours. Hope you will be waiting for me at the Airport."-
- Yes, I will."- Maora promised.
At 13.30 hours, Kirk descended from the German Rocket, and saw Maora Noemi from the distance. She run the last meters, embracing him tightly.
They kissed each other fervently.
- My love! So many days and weeks waiting for you!"-- Maora said, with a sob.
- Me, too.- Kirk said in response.
They carried the luggage in a wheel cart , and in her car - fully loaded- they traveled home.
-"People here has afraid , now the delinquency has grown so much. Police is unable to stop the gangs."- Maora informed him.
- Even so at our little town?- " Kirk asked, in surprise.
- Not so much, here ! But just the same, the unlawful acts and robbery has increased too!"- Maora exclaimed.
They arrive home, and Kirk saw both girls waiting at the Garden- with pink dresses and white shoes on. He run to embrace them, and they kissed him lightly in the cheek. The maid, a middle aged woman, said"- Welcome your father to the house, ladies!"- And so they did , with fluttering voices.
Opening a suitcase at the Living Room, Kirk presents them some gifts- dolls and bears for his daughters, and a golden ring for Maora.
- Oh, it's nice!"- Said she, kissing him . The ring has three pearls on it, shining beautifully .
That night, Maora was fierce in bed, hungry for love. Fortunately, Kirk was prepared, as he had swallowed a couple of "Viagra" pills beforehand!
For three days they were enchanted with each other, and at the fourth, Maora said, when breakfasting milk and bread with honey:-" Wish you could stay here for ever!"
- It cannot be, Maora. I need to be in space the most of my life."-- He declares.
She sips her milk , and said : Your are a rich man, with all the money you got from the mines at Crab Delta! "
- But I have not those things anymore! I use the money improving the spaceship!"- Kirk announced.
She looked at him in disbelief.
Days later, Spock rings the bell of the front door.
-" How are you, my friend? All tranquil here?"- He asked.
- Yes ! Not a shadow of a problem! But, do come in! It's raining outside."- Kirk said.
Inside the house, Spock saluted Maora, and present her with some gifts for her and her daughters.
- "Oh, how nice! Look, Jim, Spock brought me perfumes and a nice Night gown from Paris!"- Maora said, delighted.
- I remember of you when I was doing some errands there."- Spock said, producing a Zippo lighter for Kirk.
- Thanks you.- He said. Kirk rarely smoke, but the lighter was superb.
-"Spock is coming to be with us for some time."- Kirk said.
- "Of course! Not a problem! We'll be delighted to have you lodging here."- Maora said.
- It' s settled, then! You can bring your valises , any time."- Kirk said.
- Thanks, dear friends! I was in a Hotel, but it is never like home."- Spock said.
Maora prepared him a bedroom at the back of the house, with a view to the rear garden, where some trees and a fake well existed.
- Fine view- a little colder in this time of the year, but don't worry, as we use stoves."- Maora told him.
- Nice room, indeed. I will go asking my suitcases in the afternoon."- Spock said.
Kirk carried him to and fro the "Bradbury Hotel" in Maora's van- a suitable vehicle to be carrying the EIGHTEEN VALISES and suitcases Spock brought to Chile- from North America and Europe.
In his packed - space room, Spock lit some odor- sticks , hangs his mirrors , put on his dark robe , and pretends to be in the far away Vulcan.
Maora saw him only at Tea Time. Spock went out early every morning, lunched out, and come back for Tea Time, using just a cup of tea and some biscuits, that he provides to the Kitchen generously.
Also , he generally bring home new appliances, gifts for the girls, and flowers or perfumes to Maora.
In Saturday nights, Spock and Kirk went out to Bowling, where Kirk almost every time won.
- " I am in a Contest for the next month. Want to join?"- Kirk asked.
- Of course, Jim. I ' ll sure help you win."- Spock reply with his usual modesty.
So , they also begin bowling in week- days.
Maora heard them talk about bowling every time they were together.
- I don't understand what is so amazing! To hit some palitroques with a rubber- ball!"- Maora repeated, laughing.
After the Elimination, a Winner team earns the cup: Kirk and Spock carried the Trophy home , and present it to Maora.
- " This is yours, because you help us with your acceptance and patience!"- Kirk told his wife.
-' Men!"- Maora exclaimed, rising his hands upwards...
The End.
1. Captain James Tiberius Kirk.
2. First Officer , Science Officer, Frank Blankenhaus. (German)
3. Second Officer T�Kara (Vulcan
4. Medical officer Silkie Kiesant (Male, Vulcan).
5. Chief Engineer Morian Sarcovetiz .
6. Transporter Engineer Wlad Smirnoff.
7. Ensign Pavel Adrian Jackson.
8. Exo Biologist Janice Icelon
Electromen: Ten. ( Esadam, Ebush, Erobin)
Others.
Aline the Coffee Shop waitress.
City at Kapaa: Checovburg
Marciela Feirondia, Spock`s Secretary while being Governor of Kappa 3.
T Priker, Chief of Police in Checovburg.
Senator Narmendio ( same city).
T Kool, T Kara: cousins to Spock at Vulcan planet.
Atia T'Ram, Doctor .(Female, Vulcan.
Synopsis.
Kirk is hired by Spock, who is Governor of Kappa 3; so he went with a cargo to Vulcan planet, and receive a box to be delivered to Spock at Kapaa.
Spock is making avoc with traditions at Kappa 3, so he have a revolution in his hands not too many months hence the beginning of his post.
Kirk was commissioned by Vulcan Senators to go and save some scientists at Griko planet, in Crab Constellation, as a Black Minihole is going that way.
They stopped at Viscuindia planet,visiting a Vulcan wreck. The beings there are the Cuindias, who were humanoids 2 meters high, similar to seals in two feet.
Rotenko, Gutevero and Sacsamarno- Three Senators of our Kingdom."- T`Kool and T Kara, astronauts.
Governor of Griko:
After Viscuindia, Kirk went to Griko planet, takes 42 Grikorians on board and went away- pity the Vulcan he was paid to save, died in a Shuttle accident and never arrives to the orbit. The 42 Grikorians begin to feel ill, and when several died, Kirk went to a Earth colony in space/ planet Fogata - and not even there the Grikorians recovered their health. Kirk went to Vulcan to be paid, but the Senators who hired him paid just the half part, saying he did not what was supposed to do.
Spock pay a lawyer to retrieve the whole amount of money , and by the moment, they went to Earth. There, Kirk is going to see his family- Maora and the two daughters- and Spock is willing to be served in a good Hotel by the moment...
19 June 2003 23.11 hours. After a trip to Santiago, who causes me to be dizzy. Alfredo Juillet Frascara.
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