Captain Kirk wanted something to happen. After 34 days of star-charting, he thought he could feel every single person on the ship itching for something interesting to happen.
He rose from the center seat as his first officer began to report on the latest scanner readings.
Walking slowly toward the science station, he listened to each deep, smooth syllable; leaning on the railing, he watched the lips that voiced the velvet words.
"Captain?" The perfectly straight face belied the gleam in the rich, brown eyes.
He hated the new dress uniform; hated diplomats; hated not being in control of his life and hated . . . no he didn't hate Lori, he loved her. After all he was marrying her, wasn't he? But he did hate pre-wedding nerves and that was what he was suffering from, wasn't it? Hell, he could use a drink. Admiral James Kirk tugged at the hem of his pristine, heavily braided uniform and made his way to the church . . . .
After Ekos, Captain James Kirk remained introspective for several days. At first he was pondering the near tragedy that had been engendered by John Gill's misguided interference.
Later he reviewed details of the mission, including their interactions with the Ekosians. It was disturbing that they had left several Ekosians aware of the Federation's great power . . . .
My son.
The recent clan gathering was successful. I am sure Stak will send you the financial report as usual, but I wanted you to know that Shula announced his intention to enter Star Fleet and no one raised an eyebrow. Your scientific achievements convinced most of Vulcan that Star Fleet is an appropriate career choice.
The vids are full of the new of the ENTERPRISE'S new captain. He seems very young to be a captain. I hope you will be able to continue the research under his leadership. (It is a totally human reaction, my son, but I think he will be a good captain. His smile indicates someone who enjoys what he does.
The Vulcan approached the command chair and leaned forward to speak. "I have completed the reports." He handed Kirk the taped. By chance his fingers made contact with the human's square digits as the exchange took place. A bolt of electricity seemed to flow from one to the other. Hazel eyes fixed on to jet black and Kirk smiled his special smile. Time stood still.
The sand covered everything.
It seeped in through every crevice and crack. It covered the tables, dulling the once polished finish. It spread over the floors like a fine mist. It filled the dishes and pots, getting into one's mouth like some perverted desert spice. It got between the bedsheets and into one's hair. It dusted the computer screen and the mirrors in the bathroom.
The sand was everywhere . . . .
July 1996