45

WHEN RAIN COMES - Andi Lenor

Spock nodded again, saying "Thank you, Ensign" as he turned away, and keyed the guide to display a map of the base complex, which he studied as he made his way out of the building.

Visiting officers' accommodations were apparently near the northeast perimeter of the complex, within easy walking distance of the host city's primary entertainment district. Not a coincidence, given human nature. For the first time, it occurred to Spock that the captain might not be in their assigned quarters at the moment.

MALE BONDING - Katie O'Doul

Furiously forcing control on his threatening emotions, Spock turned from the door to the officer's mess and the shred of conversation he'd just overheard. Unfortunately, just as he turned, he nearly collided with Nurse Chapel. Quickly averting eye contact, the Vulcan threw up the final shields that would enable him to force a look of total calm on his face, but it wasn't quick enough to escape the notice of the human female.

ON WHICH TO BUILD - Rosemarie Heaton

Kirk gazed at the blue-green world that filled most of the view-screen. Damn, he thought, just when I had hoped for a couple of free days. Aloud he said, "I thought you told me they had colds, Doctor?"

"I did and they do." McCoy shrugged. "Unfortunately, for them, it's one of the worst cases I've seen in years. I cannot certify them fit enough to undertake their duties, Jim and even if I could, I wouldn't."

"I still don't see why they need me," Kirk muttered.

BABY - Michele Arvizu

"Sahr-ek."

With all the power, logic, and grace of his formidable personality, the ambassador to Earth bowed low from the waist before the imposing row of High Council members--who eyed him sternly from behind a Vulcan curtain of dispassion and remote regard. Like a dowager queen, the regal and ancient T Pau held court, flanked by elders representing the six ancient clans united since Surak. A phalanx of assistants, servants, and intermediaries stood like statues behind that intimidating and August line, as with an unsteadiness wrought by her advanced years, T Pau, an inflexible, infallible presence, slowly came to her feet.

"Thy son has come to our attention."

QUIRK OF FATE - Kathy Stanis

Spock could hardly bear to look at his captain. He lowered his eyes to the transporter console to give them a moment's relief from the sight the snug denim trousers, soft, white shirt and tall-heeled, pointed-toed boots, and the body that filled them. The dazzling smile stunned him as he lifted his head. One point two-three years had done nothing to diminish the effect that smile had on him. Now he would have to wait four days to see it again.

"I'll check in with you from Admiral Singh's," Kirk said.

Spock's hands hovered over the controls, his gaze locked with Kirk's across the room.

"Take care of her for me, Spock."

"I will."

"See you in four days. I'll be waiting for you."

Art

December 1996