Fic: The Captain and the Cat (3/3)
Fandom: AU!Star Trek: Reboot
Rating: PG
Warnings: Character death
Pairings: Kirk/Spock, Spock Prime/Kirk Prime
Disclaimer: I don't own anything Disney or Star Trek related.
Summary: A retelling of Disney’s The Princess and the Frog. Jim Kirk is working hard to get his own ship; and Prince Spock is trying to figure out the exact moment his life fell apart.
The Captain and the Cat
The stars were reflecting on the water as Spock watched it lap against the sides of the boat, as they made their way back to San Francisco. He had had time to think during the trip, and there had been a lot to think about.
When it had been decided that he should marry on Earth his mother had directed him to a family she had been friends with long ago. He had study Miss Uhura’s background and found her to be compatible. A marriage with her could be workable, even if it was not truly desired by him. It was not until he had met Jim that he had considered that a relationship could be something else, something more. He and Jim were different on so many levels and yet he liked Jim anyway-no even more than that-he liked him because of those differences. It might not be as workable a relationship, but it was very desirable.
This simple feeling...
Spock moved away from Jim and McCoy, and their growing pile of Mudka’s Meat Hut take out bags from the small shop onboard. He went over to the other side of the deck where Selek was looking up at his T’hy’la.
“Did you always know, Selek?”
“That he was the one for me? No, in fact I fought against it quite hard. I was convinced that it made a less worthy individual to feel as I did for him, but I know now that it does not.”
“Even if you do not know if they...feel as you do?”
Selek locked his eyes with Spock.
“One must have faith in such things, Spock.”
“I will try to. There could be so much more to such things than I have considered before. There could be passion and enjoyment if he does reciprocate, and I do wish him to...I-I...”
Selek stopped him.
“It is not me you should say those words to.”
“Of course, but-but I must tell him alone.”
“Of course.”
***
Spock managed to get Jim alone on the top deck of the boat, while trying to contain his emotions for his coming confession.
“Spock, I don’t know what was so urgent you had to drag me away from Bones trying to convince people that Selek is a really realistic toy.”
“An interesting endeavour I have no doubt.”
Jim looked at Spock, as he sat down next to something covered by a thin white sheet.
“So, what brings us up here?”
“I thought I would do something to celebrate our last night as cats.”
Spock moved back the sheet to reveal a saucer of cream.
Jim’s eyes went wide. “Wow.”
“I hope it is to your liking, Jim.”
“Y-Yes, thank you, Spock. No one’s ever done anything like this for me before.”
“Then you are most welcome, Jim.”
It was wonderfully peaceful, sitting there lapping up the creamy white liquid as someone in the rooms below practiced their accordion.
They finished the last of the bowl at the same time, their noses touching gently.
“Sorry,” Jim said.
“Jim, I-”
“Look there she is!”
Spock turned to look as Jim rushed over to the ship railing, gazing at a Starship bathed in the moonlight.
“Your ship?”
“Yes, isn’t she beautiful?”
Spock nodded. “It is a fine ship.”
“Can’t you just see it? All lit up and zooming through the stars.”
“Indeed, boldly going where no one has gone before.”
Jim smiled. “Hey, I like that it should be the ship motto.”
They sat there in a comfortable silence for a moment.
“You know I would need a good science officer,” Jim whispered softly.
“Really, you would let me?”
“Let me talk to the captain...the captain says yes.”
A feeling of certainty swelled in Spock. Jim wanted to be with him.
“Thank you.”
Jim sighed and leaned against Spock.
“People from all corners of the galaxy, from all walks of life, will learn about each other thanks to our ship.”
“Our ship?”
“Hmm? Oh no, my…my dad. We always dreamed about traveling the stars together. He died before he could see it come true. But after tomorrow, with your help, our dream is finally coming true.”
“Tomorrow?”
“If I don’t deliver the money for the Enterprise first thing tomorrow I lose her forever.”
All at once the feeling of certainty...and happiness was drained and crushed. It could not be, he had promised Jim his ship and Spock was a man of his word. So, he would get Jim the ship, the dream, he clearly loved above all else; and continue on without him.
“Jim, I lo-I… When I see the way you light up when you talk about your dream, it is inspiring. I promise I will do everything in my power to make it come true.”
Spock moved away from Jim, his head hung low.
“All ashore!” a voice cried out below them.
Jim looked at Spock with concern as the boat docked.
“Spock, you okay?”
Spock lifted his head high, he would have control; he must take the logical course.
“Yes, yes…I shall go get the others.”
Jim watched him leave. Then sighed, looking up at the wishing star, the one Selek had called T’hy’la
“You know I’ve always been so sure about what I wanted and now I…please tell me what to do.”
Jim was so lost in his own thoughts he didn’t see the dark shadows surround Spock and take him away.
***
Jim walked off the ship and onto the dock where McCoy was waiting, with only Selek at his side.
“Jim, have you seen, Spock?” McCoy asked.
“What are you talking about? He went to get you guys.”
“And that was the last time you saw him?” McCoy asked, worrying creeping into his voice.
“Yes, but if he didn’t go to you...you guys don’t think?”
“We must find him quickly,” Selek said urgently.
The three moved as quickly as they could through the crowds of people that lined the streets, celebrating the festival.
“This would be a much simpler task if you and he were already bonded,” Selek said.
“Bonded?”
“Yes, it is common practice for couples on Vulcan.”
“Couples? Selek, Spock and I aren’t a couple!”
Selek stopped and looked at Jim curiously.
“He did not discuss such desires with you?”
“No, actually he was all nervous, and fidgety the whole time and...Oh god! He was trying to tell me he loved me!”
He must have gone to Uhura and told her the truth. That he couldn’t marry her, that he loved him. Jim pushed through the crowds lining the streets...and saw Spock standing on the wedding cake float next to her, the minister already speaking.
Jim growled at leapt to go give him a piece of his mind, only to find he didn’t go anywhere. He looked down to see Selek’s paw holding him back.
“Let me go! I’m going to claw his pretty face in!”
“He is an impostor.”
“What?”
“If Spock had been successful you would have transformed back as well. That man is not him.”
Jim thought for a moment and then it clicked. “At the ball there was someone else who looked like him...” he trailed off as he saw Facilier on a nearby balcony, and caught a glimpse of the voodoo doll is his hand...and a knife in the other.
“Shadow-man...He’s going to kill Pike! I’ve got to stop him! Selek find Spock. Bones, find a way to stall that wedding!”
“Oh, sure give me the easy job!” McCoy shouted as Jim ran off.
McCoy looked up at the wedding ceremony his mind going a mile a minute.
“If anyone has any reason why these two should not be joined in matrimony let them speak now or forever hold their-”
“I object!” McCoy said, running up the float.
“O-On what grounds?” the minister asked.
“Um...Have you two been properly tested?”
Uhura glared at McCoy.
“Who the hell are you?!”
“I’m a doctor, ma’am, and I know that right now it seems like everything is perfect and wonderful...but-but have you read the latest in the Starfleet medical journal that...”
As McCoy kept up the show Selek crept up the other side of the float to a chest near the feet of the impostor.
“Spock?”
Spock pressed his one eye close to the key hole trying to see outside.
“Selek, get me out of here,” Spock whispered frantically.
Selek didn’t have to, because as at that moment he was spotted. Stonn screamed and Uhura kicked out her leg and Selek moved to dodge it. He managed to land gracefully on the ground, as the chest came with him and broke open on contact with the pavement. Spock leapt out of it and clamped his jaws around the cord that held the talisman around Stonn’s neck. It snapped as Stonn stumbled trying to get Spock off him and fell off the float. The talisman landed on the ground near them.
“Selek! That talisman contains my blood, it is the key to all of this, you must get it!”
Selek grabbed the item in his mouth and ran in between the nearest two buildings. Without the talisman the spell started rapidly wearing off, and Stonn grabbed Spock and ran into a nearby church to maintain his cover.
Above that entire scene Jim had gotten to Facilier. He leapt at the hand holding the doll and bit down hard. Facilier yelped in pain and threw up him off his hand, and down towards the street below.
McCoy grabbed the flying fur-ball, knocked Uhura over, and fell to the ground; Jim clutched firmly to his chest.
“Thanks, Bones.”
“Don’t mention it, Jim.”
Uhura gasped and sat up.
“Jim, what happened to you?!”
“No, time to explain! Just find a cute black and white kitten and let him kiss you!” he yelled, and took off again.
“Jim, come back!”
McCoy’s cry went unanswered as Jim continued running. He was sure he had seen Shadow-man come this way.
“Jim!”
Jim turned as Selek ran up to him from around a corner, the shadow creatures right behind him. He dumped the talisman at Jim’s feet.
“Selek?”
“This is the key to Facilier’s spell! Don’t let him get his hands on this!”
“But you-”
“I shall hold them off! Go!”
Jim grabbed the trinket in his teeth and ran. Selek turned to face the darkness and he did manage to hold them off quite well…until the knife tore through his back.
***
Jim ducked behind a tombstone, trying to catch his breath and suddenly he was surrounded. He held the talisman high over his head with one paw.
“Stay back! Or I’ll smash it into a million pieces!”
A new shadow fell over Jim and there was a sudden puff of pink smoke. Jim looked down at his hands and knew he was back to his human form; in a captain’s uniform. He watched as the world simmered around him to show him his ship, humming with the sound of the engines, buzzing with life.
He looked around the bridge and saw a man with short dark hair leaning over the science station scanner.
“Spock?”
The figure turned...to reveal some random person in science blues.
“I’ve got to hand it to you, Kirk, when you dream, you dream big.”
Jim turned and his eyes went wide at the figure that came out of the turbolift.
“Shadow-man.”
“Just look at this beauty! It’s going to be the crown-jewel of the fleet!” Facilier slid up close to Jim. “And all you have to do to make this a reality, is hand over that little old talisman of mine.”
Jim hugged it close to his chest.
“No, it’s, it’s not right.”
“Come now, Boy, think of all the sacrifices you made.”
Facilier waved his hand and voices filled the air.
“You need to learn to have some fun!”
“I told you he would not come.”
“Think of all those people who doubted you.”
“You’ll never get enough for the down payment.”
“That’s why a…Farmboy, like you, would have had his hands full trying to run a big ship like that.”
Then he moved in for the killing blow.
“And don’t forget your poor daddy.”
Jim’s mouth fell open as George Kirk’s face filled the viewscreen.
“Working so hard all those years, and what did he have to show for it? Couple of old antiques and a dream that never got off the back porch.”
Jim stared at the viewscreen, and saw a memory of his dad and Sam working on that old car, while Jim sat in the driver’s seat and stretched his legs out to reach the pedals.
“But you…you can give your poor daddy everything he ever wanted. Come on, Jim, you’re almost there.”
Jim looked at his old man. That life his dad had lived might not have been very long, and it didn’t have everything he wanted in it, but that life had still been full and happy.
“My dad never did get what he wanted, but he had what he needed! He had love! He never lost sight of what was really important, and neither will I!”
He threw the necklace to the ground in defiance...only to see a shadow grab it as the last second.
The shadow glided over to Facilier and handed it over; as the vision vanished and Jim transformed back to his cat form, and pinned to the ground by Facilier’s cane.
Facilier laughed. “You all should have taken my deal. Now you get to spend the rest of your life as a helpless little fur-ball. Doesn’t it just make you see red?”
Jim smirked.
“I’ve got news for you, Sunshine! Cats don’t see red!”
Jim sunk his claws into the wood, swinging the cane to the side, and slammed against Facilier’s injured hand. He yelled out in pain, and the talisman fell and smashed to pieces on the ground.
“No!”
Facilier dropped to his knees next to the shards.
“Now how am I ever gonna repay my debts?!”
The shadows swirled around him, their eyes glowing.
“Are you ready?” they asked in a menacing tone, their mouths forming sinister smiles.
“No, friends, I’m not ready at all! This is a minor setback in a major operation!”
His friends from the other side grabbed him and pulled him deep into the cemetery, and his screams echoed over the tombstones.
Not daring to look back Jim went to find Spock.
***
As the police took the impostor, Stonn, away Uhura looked at the kitten she he found with him in the church.
“So, let me make sure I understand all this. You’re the real Prince Spock and you need me to kiss you to turn you back to normal; and then we’ll get married.”
“Yes,” Spock said urgently, his eyes on the large clock tower on the face of the church. They had only a few minutes more. “But do remember that you must give Jim all the money he requires for his ship in exchange. For you see Jim...he is my T’hy’la.”
Uhura nodded and leaned down.
“Wait!”
Spock turned as Jim came around a corner from behind him.
“Jim?”
“Don’t do this.”
“I have to do this and we are running out of time!”
“No, Spock, I won’t let you!”
“It is the only way to get you your dream!”
Jim looked at Spock, his eyes soft.
“My dream? My, my dream wouldn’t be complete without you in it. I love you, Spock.”
Uhura watched the two of them with tears in her eyes.
“All my life I’ve dreamed of finding that fairy tale romance, but you did, Jim. Oh, he’s yours, Jim, I’ll do it for you.”
The words were barely out of her mouth when the clock chimed midnight.
“Maybe, maybe it’s fast.”
“It is accurate to within one one-hundredths of a second,” Spock answered numbly.
Uhura couldn’t help but smile a little as she reached out and scratched them behind their ears. “Well at least you guys still look cute.”
“Jim! Spock!”
They looked behind Uhura as McCoy came running up the street.
“Bones, what is it?”
“You need to come with me and you’d better hurry.”
They ran behind him down the empty street and found Selek limp in a pool of blood near the cemetery, barely breathing.
“Selek, no.”
Spock started frantically rubbing against his face against his, trying to get him to wake up.
“Bones, do something!”
McCoy sunk to his knees. He had never felt more helpless. “I can’t.”
“You’re a doctor, there’s a patient!” Jim shouted, his eyes pleading with him to fix this.
“There’s nothing more I can do, Jim.”
“Selek!”
Selek stirred at Jim’s cry and opened his eyes slowly. He locked his eyes on Jim.
“Do not grieve, Jim, it is logical. So, long as you and the others are safe my sacrifice will not be in vain.”
“Yes, Selek, we are safe,” he stepped over to Spock’s side, “and we are staying together.”
“I am pleased.”
Selek looked up at the star shining brightly in the sky.
“T’hy’la, parted from me...and yet never parted...still always touching and touched; we shall meet again at last.”
His focused his eyes on Jim once again.
“Live long and prosper.”
Then his eyes closed again for the last time.
“No.”
***
Spock made his way into the gazebo at Uhura’s house, where they were staying until other arrangements could be made. He approached slowly as Jim looked out at the setting sun.
“He is at peace, Jim.”
“I know, but he didn’t deserve that. Of all of us he was the most…human.”
Spock and Jim watched the stars come out and waited patiently and when the wishing star came out they could see that there were two of them.
“They are together again,” Spock said.
Jim blinked back tears. “That’s great; I just wish...”
“You wish what? You have to be specific you know, there’s paperwork involved for us.”
They whipped around at the sound of that voice to see two apparitions sitting there with them. Selek in his true form, pointed ears and black hair in the standard bowl cut. Next to him the man, who had spoken, in a green wraparound shirt who smiled at the feline pair.
“Selek.”
“You’re a Vulcan,” Jim said.
“I am.”
Spock’s eyes trailed over him, recognizing the strong cheek bones and the shape to his nose.
“You were me.”
“In another time, another place,” Selek said.
“So you lied.”
“Oh…I implied.”
The man in the green shirt chuckled.
“I like them.”
“I knew you would, T’hy’la.”
“Not that this isn’t wonderful, but...”
“But what, Jim?” Spock asked.
“I promised you we would help your planet, Spock, and now with us still like this, and him gone...sort of, I don’t know how I can.”
The hazel eyes of Selek’s T’hy’la lit up with determination. “Let it never be said that Jim Kirk in any universe was one to break a promise. We can help you.”
“Really?” Jim asked, looking at the older men.
“Indeed, the disease can be cured.”
“How?” Spock asked.
“The components of your blood hold the key,” Selek responded.
“My blood?”
“You mixed heritage provides the blood elements in proper combination to combat the virus.”
“Can it still work when he’s...?” Jim asked, gesturing to Spock.
“It doesn't have to,” Spock said. “Blood samples are taken when traveling to other planets to prevent epidemics. Mine will be on record and in storage.”
“Then Bones could use to create an antidote!” Jim exclaimed.
“And then I must come up with a way to explain my new body to my father when we travel to Vulcan.”
“You can say it’s only temporary. The festival is an annual event, and Captain Pike always wins, we could try again with Uhura then.”
“That is acceptable.”
“Good,” Selek’s T’hy’la said. “In the meantime I was captain of a ship myself a long time ago I can make it an official marriage if you both want to.”
Jim and Spock glanced at each other briefly before answering in unison.
“We want to.”
“We shall proceed then,” he said, and stood up properly as Jim and Spock came to sit in front of him.
“Will you love him? Comfort him? Honour and keep him in sickness and in health; and forsaking all others, keep only onto him, as long as you both shall live?”
“I do.”
“I do.”
The man smiled.
“Well don’t just sit there, Spock, kiss him!”
Spock happily kissed him, he felt a strange sensation as he did so and when he pulled back he saw blond hair, pink flushed skin, and bright blue eyes standing before him.
“How?”
“Scotty did say it would be royalty who would break the spell,” Jim said.
“When you became my husband…that makes you-”
“A prince. You just kissed yourself a prince.”
“And I wish to do it again.”
***
The antidote was ready and so was the Enterprise. Jim looked around the transport shuttle surprised that so many people were joining in on the mission.
“Bones?”
“Like I said the wife took the whole planet, and someone needs to deliver the antidote and keep your sorry ass out of trouble,” he said, checking the containers for safe transport for the tenth time.
“Chekov? Sulu?”
“We can’t let you have all the fun, Captain.”
Jim sat down in his seat and smiled at the woman across from him smoothing out her skirt.
“Uhura.”
“Just because I haven’t been lucky in love yet doesn’t mean I can’t help out; and besides I’ve been hearing rumours that Spock has a brother.”
“Indeed.”
Jim turned as Spock came through the door dressed in a fresh blue uniform.
“Permission to come aboard, Captain?”
“Permission granted,” Jim said, and smiled as he buckled his seat belt.
Beside him McCoy reluctantly buckled his own.
“I may throw up on you.”
***
“USS Enterprise this is Vulcan you have been given clearance. Ambassador Sarek will meet you at the following coordinates.”
The team beamed down and Spock walked over to where his father was waiting.
“Father, we believe we have an antidote.”
“That is most fortunate. There have been complications since you left. The disease has the ability to cross-species your mother-”
Spock cut him off in horror. “Does she live?”
“For now.”
Jim came up, putting a hand on Spock’s shoulder.
“Come on, Spock, we have a lot of work to do.”
***
She looked so small on the bed, was Spock’s only thought as he came into the room to administer the medicine. As it dripped slowly into her body she shifted and opened her eyes.
“Spock...”
He leaned close, putting one hand on either side of her face.
“Do not speak, Mother. You are still very weak.”
Amanda kept her eyes on him and smiled weakly.
“It is so good that you have returned. I was afraid...you might not come in time...I might not see you again.”
“Do not speak such things you are going to recover.”
She nodded.
“Did Nyota come with you?”
“She did, but I must inform you that we are not together...I met someone else.”
He let his gaze drop to the floor and waited for the words that told him he had failed once again.
“But you are happy?”
“I am.”
She smiled again, reached up, and squeezed his hand.
“That is wonderful, Spock. It is all your father and I have wished for you. Tell me about them.”
Spock looked in her eyes feeling...hopeful.
“He’s name is Jim.”
***
Jim stood on the balcony of Sarek’s home, relishing the cool night air. He was exhausted and sore, but also satisfied. They had won. Vulcan was going to be okay.
He turned around as Spock came out to join him.
“Is she doing all right?”
“Her recovery is steady.”
“That’s great.”
Spock wrapped his arms around Jim’s waist and held him close.
“What is it?”
Before answering Spock kissed him softly.
“Please do not think that any less of the vows we have spoken to each other, but…she wishes us to have a proper wedding.”
Jim chuckled and hugged him tight.
“My mom would want one too. She never likes to miss a chance to do floral arrangements and have a good cry. I think we can do that.”
They were married again and lived happily ever after.
The End
Rating: PG
Warnings: Character death
Pairings: Kirk/Spock, Spock Prime/Kirk Prime
Disclaimer: I don't own anything Disney or Star Trek related.
Summary: A retelling of Disney’s The Princess and the Frog. Jim Kirk is working hard to get his own ship; and Prince Spock is trying to figure out the exact moment his life fell apart.
The Captain and the Cat
The stars were reflecting on the water as Spock watched it lap against the sides of the boat, as they made their way back to San Francisco. He had had time to think during the trip, and there had been a lot to think about.
When it had been decided that he should marry on Earth his mother had directed him to a family she had been friends with long ago. He had study Miss Uhura’s background and found her to be compatible. A marriage with her could be workable, even if it was not truly desired by him. It was not until he had met Jim that he had considered that a relationship could be something else, something more. He and Jim were different on so many levels and yet he liked Jim anyway-no even more than that-he liked him because of those differences. It might not be as workable a relationship, but it was very desirable.
This simple feeling...
Spock moved away from Jim and McCoy, and their growing pile of Mudka’s Meat Hut take out bags from the small shop onboard. He went over to the other side of the deck where Selek was looking up at his T’hy’la.
“Did you always know, Selek?”
“That he was the one for me? No, in fact I fought against it quite hard. I was convinced that it made a less worthy individual to feel as I did for him, but I know now that it does not.”
“Even if you do not know if they...feel as you do?”
Selek locked his eyes with Spock.
“One must have faith in such things, Spock.”
“I will try to. There could be so much more to such things than I have considered before. There could be passion and enjoyment if he does reciprocate, and I do wish him to...I-I...”
Selek stopped him.
“It is not me you should say those words to.”
“Of course, but-but I must tell him alone.”
“Of course.”
***
Spock managed to get Jim alone on the top deck of the boat, while trying to contain his emotions for his coming confession.
“Spock, I don’t know what was so urgent you had to drag me away from Bones trying to convince people that Selek is a really realistic toy.”
“An interesting endeavour I have no doubt.”
Jim looked at Spock, as he sat down next to something covered by a thin white sheet.
“So, what brings us up here?”
“I thought I would do something to celebrate our last night as cats.”
Spock moved back the sheet to reveal a saucer of cream.
Jim’s eyes went wide. “Wow.”
“I hope it is to your liking, Jim.”
“Y-Yes, thank you, Spock. No one’s ever done anything like this for me before.”
“Then you are most welcome, Jim.”
It was wonderfully peaceful, sitting there lapping up the creamy white liquid as someone in the rooms below practiced their accordion.
They finished the last of the bowl at the same time, their noses touching gently.
“Sorry,” Jim said.
“Jim, I-”
“Look there she is!”
Spock turned to look as Jim rushed over to the ship railing, gazing at a Starship bathed in the moonlight.
“Your ship?”
“Yes, isn’t she beautiful?”
Spock nodded. “It is a fine ship.”
“Can’t you just see it? All lit up and zooming through the stars.”
“Indeed, boldly going where no one has gone before.”
Jim smiled. “Hey, I like that it should be the ship motto.”
They sat there in a comfortable silence for a moment.
“You know I would need a good science officer,” Jim whispered softly.
“Really, you would let me?”
“Let me talk to the captain...the captain says yes.”
A feeling of certainty swelled in Spock. Jim wanted to be with him.
“Thank you.”
Jim sighed and leaned against Spock.
“People from all corners of the galaxy, from all walks of life, will learn about each other thanks to our ship.”
“Our ship?”
“Hmm? Oh no, my…my dad. We always dreamed about traveling the stars together. He died before he could see it come true. But after tomorrow, with your help, our dream is finally coming true.”
“Tomorrow?”
“If I don’t deliver the money for the Enterprise first thing tomorrow I lose her forever.”
All at once the feeling of certainty...and happiness was drained and crushed. It could not be, he had promised Jim his ship and Spock was a man of his word. So, he would get Jim the ship, the dream, he clearly loved above all else; and continue on without him.
“Jim, I lo-I… When I see the way you light up when you talk about your dream, it is inspiring. I promise I will do everything in my power to make it come true.”
Spock moved away from Jim, his head hung low.
“All ashore!” a voice cried out below them.
Jim looked at Spock with concern as the boat docked.
“Spock, you okay?”
Spock lifted his head high, he would have control; he must take the logical course.
“Yes, yes…I shall go get the others.”
Jim watched him leave. Then sighed, looking up at the wishing star, the one Selek had called T’hy’la
“You know I’ve always been so sure about what I wanted and now I…please tell me what to do.”
Jim was so lost in his own thoughts he didn’t see the dark shadows surround Spock and take him away.
***
Jim walked off the ship and onto the dock where McCoy was waiting, with only Selek at his side.
“Jim, have you seen, Spock?” McCoy asked.
“What are you talking about? He went to get you guys.”
“And that was the last time you saw him?” McCoy asked, worrying creeping into his voice.
“Yes, but if he didn’t go to you...you guys don’t think?”
“We must find him quickly,” Selek said urgently.
The three moved as quickly as they could through the crowds of people that lined the streets, celebrating the festival.
“This would be a much simpler task if you and he were already bonded,” Selek said.
“Bonded?”
“Yes, it is common practice for couples on Vulcan.”
“Couples? Selek, Spock and I aren’t a couple!”
Selek stopped and looked at Jim curiously.
“He did not discuss such desires with you?”
“No, actually he was all nervous, and fidgety the whole time and...Oh god! He was trying to tell me he loved me!”
He must have gone to Uhura and told her the truth. That he couldn’t marry her, that he loved him. Jim pushed through the crowds lining the streets...and saw Spock standing on the wedding cake float next to her, the minister already speaking.
Jim growled at leapt to go give him a piece of his mind, only to find he didn’t go anywhere. He looked down to see Selek’s paw holding him back.
“Let me go! I’m going to claw his pretty face in!”
“He is an impostor.”
“What?”
“If Spock had been successful you would have transformed back as well. That man is not him.”
Jim thought for a moment and then it clicked. “At the ball there was someone else who looked like him...” he trailed off as he saw Facilier on a nearby balcony, and caught a glimpse of the voodoo doll is his hand...and a knife in the other.
“Shadow-man...He’s going to kill Pike! I’ve got to stop him! Selek find Spock. Bones, find a way to stall that wedding!”
“Oh, sure give me the easy job!” McCoy shouted as Jim ran off.
McCoy looked up at the wedding ceremony his mind going a mile a minute.
“If anyone has any reason why these two should not be joined in matrimony let them speak now or forever hold their-”
“I object!” McCoy said, running up the float.
“O-On what grounds?” the minister asked.
“Um...Have you two been properly tested?”
Uhura glared at McCoy.
“Who the hell are you?!”
“I’m a doctor, ma’am, and I know that right now it seems like everything is perfect and wonderful...but-but have you read the latest in the Starfleet medical journal that...”
As McCoy kept up the show Selek crept up the other side of the float to a chest near the feet of the impostor.
“Spock?”
Spock pressed his one eye close to the key hole trying to see outside.
“Selek, get me out of here,” Spock whispered frantically.
Selek didn’t have to, because as at that moment he was spotted. Stonn screamed and Uhura kicked out her leg and Selek moved to dodge it. He managed to land gracefully on the ground, as the chest came with him and broke open on contact with the pavement. Spock leapt out of it and clamped his jaws around the cord that held the talisman around Stonn’s neck. It snapped as Stonn stumbled trying to get Spock off him and fell off the float. The talisman landed on the ground near them.
“Selek! That talisman contains my blood, it is the key to all of this, you must get it!”
Selek grabbed the item in his mouth and ran in between the nearest two buildings. Without the talisman the spell started rapidly wearing off, and Stonn grabbed Spock and ran into a nearby church to maintain his cover.
Above that entire scene Jim had gotten to Facilier. He leapt at the hand holding the doll and bit down hard. Facilier yelped in pain and threw up him off his hand, and down towards the street below.
McCoy grabbed the flying fur-ball, knocked Uhura over, and fell to the ground; Jim clutched firmly to his chest.
“Thanks, Bones.”
“Don’t mention it, Jim.”
Uhura gasped and sat up.
“Jim, what happened to you?!”
“No, time to explain! Just find a cute black and white kitten and let him kiss you!” he yelled, and took off again.
“Jim, come back!”
McCoy’s cry went unanswered as Jim continued running. He was sure he had seen Shadow-man come this way.
“Jim!”
Jim turned as Selek ran up to him from around a corner, the shadow creatures right behind him. He dumped the talisman at Jim’s feet.
“Selek?”
“This is the key to Facilier’s spell! Don’t let him get his hands on this!”
“But you-”
“I shall hold them off! Go!”
Jim grabbed the trinket in his teeth and ran. Selek turned to face the darkness and he did manage to hold them off quite well…until the knife tore through his back.
***
Jim ducked behind a tombstone, trying to catch his breath and suddenly he was surrounded. He held the talisman high over his head with one paw.
“Stay back! Or I’ll smash it into a million pieces!”
A new shadow fell over Jim and there was a sudden puff of pink smoke. Jim looked down at his hands and knew he was back to his human form; in a captain’s uniform. He watched as the world simmered around him to show him his ship, humming with the sound of the engines, buzzing with life.
He looked around the bridge and saw a man with short dark hair leaning over the science station scanner.
“Spock?”
The figure turned...to reveal some random person in science blues.
“I’ve got to hand it to you, Kirk, when you dream, you dream big.”
Jim turned and his eyes went wide at the figure that came out of the turbolift.
“Shadow-man.”
“Just look at this beauty! It’s going to be the crown-jewel of the fleet!” Facilier slid up close to Jim. “And all you have to do to make this a reality, is hand over that little old talisman of mine.”
Jim hugged it close to his chest.
“No, it’s, it’s not right.”
“Come now, Boy, think of all the sacrifices you made.”
Facilier waved his hand and voices filled the air.
“You need to learn to have some fun!”
“I told you he would not come.”
“Think of all those people who doubted you.”
“You’ll never get enough for the down payment.”
“That’s why a…Farmboy, like you, would have had his hands full trying to run a big ship like that.”
Then he moved in for the killing blow.
“And don’t forget your poor daddy.”
Jim’s mouth fell open as George Kirk’s face filled the viewscreen.
“Working so hard all those years, and what did he have to show for it? Couple of old antiques and a dream that never got off the back porch.”
Jim stared at the viewscreen, and saw a memory of his dad and Sam working on that old car, while Jim sat in the driver’s seat and stretched his legs out to reach the pedals.
“But you…you can give your poor daddy everything he ever wanted. Come on, Jim, you’re almost there.”
Jim looked at his old man. That life his dad had lived might not have been very long, and it didn’t have everything he wanted in it, but that life had still been full and happy.
“My dad never did get what he wanted, but he had what he needed! He had love! He never lost sight of what was really important, and neither will I!”
He threw the necklace to the ground in defiance...only to see a shadow grab it as the last second.
The shadow glided over to Facilier and handed it over; as the vision vanished and Jim transformed back to his cat form, and pinned to the ground by Facilier’s cane.
Facilier laughed. “You all should have taken my deal. Now you get to spend the rest of your life as a helpless little fur-ball. Doesn’t it just make you see red?”
Jim smirked.
“I’ve got news for you, Sunshine! Cats don’t see red!”
Jim sunk his claws into the wood, swinging the cane to the side, and slammed against Facilier’s injured hand. He yelled out in pain, and the talisman fell and smashed to pieces on the ground.
“No!”
Facilier dropped to his knees next to the shards.
“Now how am I ever gonna repay my debts?!”
The shadows swirled around him, their eyes glowing.
“Are you ready?” they asked in a menacing tone, their mouths forming sinister smiles.
“No, friends, I’m not ready at all! This is a minor setback in a major operation!”
His friends from the other side grabbed him and pulled him deep into the cemetery, and his screams echoed over the tombstones.
Not daring to look back Jim went to find Spock.
***
As the police took the impostor, Stonn, away Uhura looked at the kitten she he found with him in the church.
“So, let me make sure I understand all this. You’re the real Prince Spock and you need me to kiss you to turn you back to normal; and then we’ll get married.”
“Yes,” Spock said urgently, his eyes on the large clock tower on the face of the church. They had only a few minutes more. “But do remember that you must give Jim all the money he requires for his ship in exchange. For you see Jim...he is my T’hy’la.”
Uhura nodded and leaned down.
“Wait!”
Spock turned as Jim came around a corner from behind him.
“Jim?”
“Don’t do this.”
“I have to do this and we are running out of time!”
“No, Spock, I won’t let you!”
“It is the only way to get you your dream!”
Jim looked at Spock, his eyes soft.
“My dream? My, my dream wouldn’t be complete without you in it. I love you, Spock.”
Uhura watched the two of them with tears in her eyes.
“All my life I’ve dreamed of finding that fairy tale romance, but you did, Jim. Oh, he’s yours, Jim, I’ll do it for you.”
The words were barely out of her mouth when the clock chimed midnight.
“Maybe, maybe it’s fast.”
“It is accurate to within one one-hundredths of a second,” Spock answered numbly.
Uhura couldn’t help but smile a little as she reached out and scratched them behind their ears. “Well at least you guys still look cute.”
“Jim! Spock!”
They looked behind Uhura as McCoy came running up the street.
“Bones, what is it?”
“You need to come with me and you’d better hurry.”
They ran behind him down the empty street and found Selek limp in a pool of blood near the cemetery, barely breathing.
“Selek, no.”
Spock started frantically rubbing against his face against his, trying to get him to wake up.
“Bones, do something!”
McCoy sunk to his knees. He had never felt more helpless. “I can’t.”
“You’re a doctor, there’s a patient!” Jim shouted, his eyes pleading with him to fix this.
“There’s nothing more I can do, Jim.”
“Selek!”
Selek stirred at Jim’s cry and opened his eyes slowly. He locked his eyes on Jim.
“Do not grieve, Jim, it is logical. So, long as you and the others are safe my sacrifice will not be in vain.”
“Yes, Selek, we are safe,” he stepped over to Spock’s side, “and we are staying together.”
“I am pleased.”
Selek looked up at the star shining brightly in the sky.
“T’hy’la, parted from me...and yet never parted...still always touching and touched; we shall meet again at last.”
His focused his eyes on Jim once again.
“Live long and prosper.”
Then his eyes closed again for the last time.
“No.”
***
Spock made his way into the gazebo at Uhura’s house, where they were staying until other arrangements could be made. He approached slowly as Jim looked out at the setting sun.
“He is at peace, Jim.”
“I know, but he didn’t deserve that. Of all of us he was the most…human.”
Spock and Jim watched the stars come out and waited patiently and when the wishing star came out they could see that there were two of them.
“They are together again,” Spock said.
Jim blinked back tears. “That’s great; I just wish...”
“You wish what? You have to be specific you know, there’s paperwork involved for us.”
They whipped around at the sound of that voice to see two apparitions sitting there with them. Selek in his true form, pointed ears and black hair in the standard bowl cut. Next to him the man, who had spoken, in a green wraparound shirt who smiled at the feline pair.
“Selek.”
“You’re a Vulcan,” Jim said.
“I am.”
Spock’s eyes trailed over him, recognizing the strong cheek bones and the shape to his nose.
“You were me.”
“In another time, another place,” Selek said.
“So you lied.”
“Oh…I implied.”
The man in the green shirt chuckled.
“I like them.”
“I knew you would, T’hy’la.”
“Not that this isn’t wonderful, but...”
“But what, Jim?” Spock asked.
“I promised you we would help your planet, Spock, and now with us still like this, and him gone...sort of, I don’t know how I can.”
The hazel eyes of Selek’s T’hy’la lit up with determination. “Let it never be said that Jim Kirk in any universe was one to break a promise. We can help you.”
“Really?” Jim asked, looking at the older men.
“Indeed, the disease can be cured.”
“How?” Spock asked.
“The components of your blood hold the key,” Selek responded.
“My blood?”
“You mixed heritage provides the blood elements in proper combination to combat the virus.”
“Can it still work when he’s...?” Jim asked, gesturing to Spock.
“It doesn't have to,” Spock said. “Blood samples are taken when traveling to other planets to prevent epidemics. Mine will be on record and in storage.”
“Then Bones could use to create an antidote!” Jim exclaimed.
“And then I must come up with a way to explain my new body to my father when we travel to Vulcan.”
“You can say it’s only temporary. The festival is an annual event, and Captain Pike always wins, we could try again with Uhura then.”
“That is acceptable.”
“Good,” Selek’s T’hy’la said. “In the meantime I was captain of a ship myself a long time ago I can make it an official marriage if you both want to.”
Jim and Spock glanced at each other briefly before answering in unison.
“We want to.”
“We shall proceed then,” he said, and stood up properly as Jim and Spock came to sit in front of him.
“Will you love him? Comfort him? Honour and keep him in sickness and in health; and forsaking all others, keep only onto him, as long as you both shall live?”
“I do.”
“I do.”
The man smiled.
“Well don’t just sit there, Spock, kiss him!”
Spock happily kissed him, he felt a strange sensation as he did so and when he pulled back he saw blond hair, pink flushed skin, and bright blue eyes standing before him.
“How?”
“Scotty did say it would be royalty who would break the spell,” Jim said.
“When you became my husband…that makes you-”
“A prince. You just kissed yourself a prince.”
“And I wish to do it again.”
***
The antidote was ready and so was the Enterprise. Jim looked around the transport shuttle surprised that so many people were joining in on the mission.
“Bones?”
“Like I said the wife took the whole planet, and someone needs to deliver the antidote and keep your sorry ass out of trouble,” he said, checking the containers for safe transport for the tenth time.
“Chekov? Sulu?”
“We can’t let you have all the fun, Captain.”
Jim sat down in his seat and smiled at the woman across from him smoothing out her skirt.
“Uhura.”
“Just because I haven’t been lucky in love yet doesn’t mean I can’t help out; and besides I’ve been hearing rumours that Spock has a brother.”
“Indeed.”
Jim turned as Spock came through the door dressed in a fresh blue uniform.
“Permission to come aboard, Captain?”
“Permission granted,” Jim said, and smiled as he buckled his seat belt.
Beside him McCoy reluctantly buckled his own.
“I may throw up on you.”
***
“USS Enterprise this is Vulcan you have been given clearance. Ambassador Sarek will meet you at the following coordinates.”
The team beamed down and Spock walked over to where his father was waiting.
“Father, we believe we have an antidote.”
“That is most fortunate. There have been complications since you left. The disease has the ability to cross-species your mother-”
Spock cut him off in horror. “Does she live?”
“For now.”
Jim came up, putting a hand on Spock’s shoulder.
“Come on, Spock, we have a lot of work to do.”
***
She looked so small on the bed, was Spock’s only thought as he came into the room to administer the medicine. As it dripped slowly into her body she shifted and opened her eyes.
“Spock...”
He leaned close, putting one hand on either side of her face.
“Do not speak, Mother. You are still very weak.”
Amanda kept her eyes on him and smiled weakly.
“It is so good that you have returned. I was afraid...you might not come in time...I might not see you again.”
“Do not speak such things you are going to recover.”
She nodded.
“Did Nyota come with you?”
“She did, but I must inform you that we are not together...I met someone else.”
He let his gaze drop to the floor and waited for the words that told him he had failed once again.
“But you are happy?”
“I am.”
She smiled again, reached up, and squeezed his hand.
“That is wonderful, Spock. It is all your father and I have wished for you. Tell me about them.”
Spock looked in her eyes feeling...hopeful.
“He’s name is Jim.”
***
Jim stood on the balcony of Sarek’s home, relishing the cool night air. He was exhausted and sore, but also satisfied. They had won. Vulcan was going to be okay.
He turned around as Spock came out to join him.
“Is she doing all right?”
“Her recovery is steady.”
“That’s great.”
Spock wrapped his arms around Jim’s waist and held him close.
“What is it?”
Before answering Spock kissed him softly.
“Please do not think that any less of the vows we have spoken to each other, but…she wishes us to have a proper wedding.”
Jim chuckled and hugged him tight.
“My mom would want one too. She never likes to miss a chance to do floral arrangements and have a good cry. I think we can do that.”
They were married again and lived happily ever after.
The End