9

WISHES, REFLECTED HOPES AND REALITY - Kay Wells

"You should have seen him, Bones," Kirk smiled, remembering the bearded Vulcan. His nearly full plate sat virtually untouched, as did the now tepid coffee. A strange dreamy expression crossed the captain's face "I think you're forgetting something," the doctor replied, none too gently. "I did see him."

"Oh . . . ."

EMPIRE GAMES - Karla Kelly

"Your repeated visits below decks must stop. Sulu's operative was nearly successful. It is obvious you must select a new Captain's woman."

"Fuck you," Kirk snarled, glaring angrily at his first officer.

"A temporary solution, at best."

TO LOVE THE GAME - Brianna Falken

Marlena slid soundlessly to her brother's side, fingering a jewel encrusted dagger. "I think he's ready, don't you?" she inquired sweetly, bending to cut Kirk's bindings, without waiting for an answer.

The ropes fell away as the demented pair stepped back to better view their handiwork. "Yes, my dear. I think you're right. Down on your knees, Captain. It's time you learned how to beg . . . ."

TIGER BURNING BRIGHT - Carolyn Spencer (novella)

Kirk felt slightly unkempt in the cool light of that unblinking appraisal. His annoyance returned.

This Vulcan was actually looking him over! Making judgments about him. Ever ready anger flared. It was time to remind someone just who was in a subordinate position. Set some things straight.

"I am

Captain James Kirk, and I'm in command. We'll have to find something to call you. People will find your last name a little cumbersome."

"Humans find clan names impossible to pronounce. You may call me Spock."

* * * * *

Kirk's hand began to tremble. "They've made a very efficient killer out of me."

Spock's eyes opened, the lashes a thick fringe against the whiter skin, but he didn't move his head. "You will not harm me," he repeated softly.

"You don't understand. I've done some things . . . killed, and will again to keep what I have. Used people. Used myself, my body . . . I'm dirty, Spock. I'll make you dirty too, if you let me."

"Allow me to cleanse you."

Kirk's hand moved to caress silken hair. "I can't love you." The other hand came up to glide hesitatingly across an upswept black brow. "I can't love you." Touched his lips to Spock's in a whisper of a kiss sweet and new as spring. "I can't love you, but God forgive me, I do."

POETRY by

COVERS by

ART by

July 1994