Chapter Text
“Captain’s Log. Stardate 2272.60. The Eldor-Animak mission was a complete success and permission from the Eldor and Animak prime ministers has been given to the Federation for safe passage in the uncharted sector just beyond their boarders. Scientific intrigue seems to fuel Enterprise’s science core as we approach the first planet in the Delta Gamma 116 solar system. Long distance readings inspire the notion of fully functioning M-Class planets with sustainable environments and preexisting life. Everyone is eager to see what secrets the new worlds may hold.” Kirk stared for a moment through the viewing screen at the planet awaiting he and his crew. He had every intention of going down with the landing party and stretching his legs. Still, something about the planet was giving him a strange tingling feeling. It could mean trouble or nothing at all, but he decided it would be best to keep the majority of his more competent crew aboard. He thought to mention his feelings but decided against it. “End log.”
“It is rather impressive, isn’t it?” Spock, who had managed to find his way beside the captain as silently as a ghost, commented on the planet, but eyed Kirk. He could tell there was something on his superior’s mind, but in all his vast logic and knowledge he could still not understand just how his friend’s mind worked. That process, like most factors about Jim, fascinated the Vulcan.
“Hmm? Oh, yeah.” Kirk smiled and relaxed back into his chair. He swiveled a little as he gave the monitor one last once over and then called out to his navigator. “Our position, Mr. Sulu?”
“Still and steady, Captain. 168.24 points from the surface,” Sulu responded promptly.
“Great! Hold that position.” Captain Kirk bounced up out of his chair and nodded towards his front station. “Sulu, you’re in charge while I’m out.”
“Aye, Captain!” Sulu stood and took his place by the captain’s chair, waiting respectfully for the blond to leave before he sat.
“Mr. Chekov,” Kirk added. “Keep an eye out on all sides and send an alert if there are any problems. Otherwise, stand by.”
Chekov moved over towards the left side of the panel and another ensign took his seat. “Yes’sir!”
The turbo-lift opened behind the captain and Kirk turned around and was met not only by his commander but also his lead medical officer. Both were looking at him with such expectancy it was hard for Kirk not to laugh a little. They both wanted to get their claws into the new planet first, but he only wanted to take a small landing party in case things became complicated as they oh-so-often did.
Bones smiled at Jim with a look that said, I’m packed and ready to go.
Spock was in his usual pose, straight and narrow with hands cupped tightly behind his back, but there was energy coming from him Kirk could practically taste.
“I only need one of you for this trip,” Jim started. Spock raised an eyebrow and Bone’s smile faded slightly and his eyes flickered over toward the Vulcan for just a moment. Jim couldn’t help but think how cute they both were being. He wondered how stir-crazy either man must be and considered taking them both, but then he remembered what happened on the last charting mission and decided for certain that a smaller group was best.
“I-“ Kirk started to speak, but the two rivals were already at it.
“Well, sorry Spock,” McCoy said mockingly. He patted the green-blooded man on the back playfully and boastfully. “I’m sure you understand. After all, a doctor is the logical choice for the landing team.“ Internally, Bones laughed as that slight look of honest annoyance crept over Spock’s expression. “Don’t worry though. I’ll bring you back plenty of samples.”
Spock stiffened and became at least a miraculous inch taller despite his spine having already been so erect. Kirk noted that sassy look in the commander’s eyes as the Vulcan said, “I don’t mean to damper your unusually optimistic mood, Doctor McCoy. However, I think it only fair to inform you that the decision does not lie with you. It is the Captain’s responsibility to decide who is most suitable for the first inspection.” He was still addressing Leonard, but he was also pleading his case to the captain. “Logically, a lead science officer with an advance understanding of biological substance and agriculture would be far more beneficial to the first team. After all, a standard medic should suffice if any basic injury or contamination should occur.” Spock turned back toward Kirk. “Ultimately though, it is your choice, Sir.”
“Yeah,” McCoy gave a huff and crossed his arms, looking at Jim now for confirmation. “It is his choice, Spock.” Both underlings placed the unnecessary pressure of another decision on their commanding officer. “So, which is it going to be, Jim? A doctor and trained part-time scientist who can assist you in collection and be there in case something more than a little unexpected happens? Or Spock?”
Spock raised one brow considerably higher than the other at the simple addition of “or Spock”.
Kirk looked between the two uncertainly.
___________________________________________________________________________________________________
McCoy stands by, awaiting Kirk’s decision with his arms crossed and a stern expression on his face.
(Go to Chapter Two if you want Kirk to travel with Doctor Leonard McCoy.)
OR
Spock stands by in his usual pose. His calm and diligent demeanor doesn’t hide his eagerness though.
(Go to Chapter Three if you want Kirk to travel with Commander Spock.)