765874: Beyond Unification

by EDITHCARDYBRUNO

Summary:

James T. Kirk and S'Chn T'Gai Spock are finally together after decades apart. Now that they are both dead, they have forever to explore the many multiple universes and re-ignite their bond.

Notes:

The story is my take on how Jim and Spock will go on.

I'll do my best not to stomp anyone's toes with my concept of a soul or katra. (religion can be tricky at times.)

Chapter 1: ¹One Last Duty

Summary:

Jim visits Spock on his deathbed, and their severed bond is restored by a mind meld.

Before the couple embarks on a new adventure, Spock performs one last duty.

Spock lies on his deathbed with his eyes closed. Age has finally caught up with a deep sadness within his soul.

Jim, How I miss thee. The bond they once held is severed. Images of Jim throughout the years occupy Spock's mind. Their time as young men on the Enterprise. Jim in his command gold uniform, his dark hair slicked with a small amount of hair gel, and those hazel eyes of his. It was during this time, late into the first five years of their mission, that they declared their love for each other and bonded at the temple on top of Mount Seleya.

Their later years were filled with adventures until the day Spock died of radiation sickness. The bond between Jim and himself was severed. They found their way to each other by way of the Genesis planet with a renewed bond and even deeper love than before.

There was Jim's disappearance and reappearance seventy-eight years later for a brief time before his death.

Spock felt Jim die, and their bond severed once again. At first, Spock wanted to die but knew Jim would not approve. He went on with life despite an overwhelming loneliness.

Life as an Ambassador, aging, trying to prevent a certain Romulan from destroying T'Khasi, being in a different universe, witnessing the T'Khasi of this universe destroyed by that same Romulan, meeting a young Jim Kirk and Spock, and finally having a home on New Vulcan.

Now Spock is in bed, too weak to move, waiting for death. His mind starts to drift until something or someone touches his left hand. His head weakly turns left, opens his eyes, and sees a smiling James Kirk grasping his hand. Jim! Is it you? Spock's mind reaches out.

It's me, Beloved. I'm here. I couldn't let you die alone. Jim grips Spock's hand tighter with both of his.

Spock weakly moves his right hand to cover Jim's for a few seconds and raises his right eyebrow. How? No matter, I am gratified you are here, Jim. Before I die, let us watch the sunrise. He turns his head toward the window and feels the sun's warmth on his face.

Jim releases Spock's hands but keeps contact with him by touching his wrist and gazes at the sun.

The pair watch the sun rise higher and higher until Spock closes his eyes for the final time.

Jim doesn't cry. Instead, he gently pulls on Spock's wrist until the Vulcan shifts, sits up, and rises slowly from the bed. Fascinating. I do not feel tired.  He wraps his arms around Jim, unsteady at first.

Jim embraces the Vulcan tighter. Take a look at the bed, Beloved.

Spock looks and sees his body lying still. My Katra! I am free from my body. Spock couldn't help feeling overwhelmed at first. We are dead.

Jim laughs. Yes, but we are together. This time for as long as we want. Forever.

Spock looks into Jim's eyes. Meld with me, Jim. Please. He gently placed his long fingers on Jim's face.

Jim closes his eyes and reaches for Spock's face with his fingers. I want to feel your mind again, Spock. I want our bond to be whole. I'm yours forever.

Spock probes deep into Jim's mind and sees his memories of the Nexus, working with the Captain of the Enterprise-D to prevent a madman from using the Nexus, the wooden bridge falling with Jim holding on to it, and finally dying with Captain Jean-Luc Picard as the only witness. You did not die alone, K'diwa. He lowers his fingers and feels Jim's love. I feel whole again. I cherish thee, Ashayam.

The bond renergizes and strengthens, this time for good.

I love you, Spock. Always. How about we get out of here? Jim kisses Spock passionately.

Spock responds at first, kissing his adun like the first time they made love. He places the right index finger on Jim's lips while pulling away slightly. Not yet, Jim. We will have plenty of time for intimacy. There is one last duty I must complete before we leave.

Spock looks at the items on a nightstand nearby. There's a box containing a photograph of the original senior staff of the Enterprise in their red uniforms and the IDIC with a chain. I need to complete a letter, Jim. I would like the Spock of this universe to have my possessions. The IDIC and the photograph, most of all.

Jim looks at Spock and smiles. Of course.

Spock picks up a PADD from a nearby desk. He raises an eyebrow upon discovering that he was able to do so and begins to type a message - a last will. Minutes later, the letter is complete.

Before Jim and Spock are ready to leave, a Vulcan healer enters the bedroom to check on Spock's body and discovers it is not breathing. He touches the forehead and knows that the Katra is no longer present. The healer leaves to make arrangements for the body, never knowing that two souls are watching.

Chapter 2: ²Visiting Family and an Old Friend

Summary:

Jim and Spock leave the apartment, renew vows, and visit a friend (and family) who are also dead.

Spock watches closely as the Vulcan healer returns with a ceremonial cloth to cover his body. The healer can't see Spock and Jim standing nearby, although he briefly paused. The healer's lips curled slightly upward, much to Spock's surprise. A moment later, he resumes his activities. It's this moment that Spock wants to leave. Jim, I no longer wish to remain here. My body is an empty shell now, and this world is not the home from where I was born. Whatever happens to it does not concern me.

Jim looks at the now-covered body. Are you sure, Spock?

I am. Spock reaches for Jim's right hand. Come with me. I want to show you something, but I do not know how to get there. Please tell me how.

Jim kisses Spock's left hand. Think of where you want to be, and we will be there together as long as we hold our hands together. I think that's how it goes. This is new to me. Jim laughs.

The bedroom disappears abruptly, and the couple finds themselves near a cave. They enter and find sparking crystals of various colors inside, illuminating the walls. They walk further inside the cave and enter a large chamber with a ledge resembling a bed, a large rock resembling a table, blankets, and an old somewhat tattered meditation mat. We are on New Vulcan, Jim. This cave was my home after I came into this universe. A candle lights up. I came here to meditate. It is here, that my mind would feel more at ease, and it is here where I wish to renew our wedding vows.

Jim cries tears of happiness. I don't recall what we said in Vuhlkansu, Spock. Being dead, I no longer have the physical limitations of a frail human brain. I will remember this time. He briefly chuckles as Spock's love is felt through the bond.

"No words are needed, K'diwa. Hear my thoughts. I shall be and forever remain your friend, I once said. We changed those words together to: We shall be and forever remain T'hy'la and husbands in my language. Your Vuhlkansu was heavily accented, but it did not matter. Spock embraces Jim tightly and kisses him. Jim, I'm yours now and forever.

Jim responds by kissing Spock, first on the lips, and gradually moves down with more kisses. It doesn't take long for their clothing to disappear.

They make love tenderly for hours (or it seems) before resting on the ledge with the blankets covering them.

I love you, Spock. The sex sure felt the same as when we were alive. How about round two?  Jim kisses Spock, this time more vigorously.

Spock hums in response. Ashayam! We have an eternity to make up for lost time!

More hours pass (according to Jim) until they once again rest. It's during this time that the couple discuss what to do next.

Spock had already risen from the ledge and is now meditating on the worn mat. Meditation after death seems to be the same as life, but now it's out of habit rather than fighting loneliness and pain, especially the pain of loss. All those years without Jim had hit him hard like being buried alive. He had breathed faster and faster until almost fainting, Spock remembered.

Panic attacks. Spock? You had panic attacks. I'm so sorry, Beloved. Jim is dressed and sits beside Spock.

Spock nodded in agreement. Yes. I denied I was suffering from them, but I couldn't fool Leonard. He saw right through me as you used to say occasionally. I wish I could have said goodbye to him before I came into this universe.

Jim sits and holds his husband's hands. There might be a way to say goodbye or perhaps hello again. Before I saw you, I met others who were dead, including Saavik.

Spock raised his right eyebrow in surprise. Saavik? She is dead?

I saw Saavik as an older version of herself. I almost didn't recognize her. Perhaps it was a future version of her. I don't know. There was a meadow with flowers, trees, and a water fountain. That's where I saw Saavik. Maybe it's a meeting place for the dead to see one another. Maybe we can see her and others we know, including Bones. Jim rises and pulls Spock up. Shall we find out?

Ready, Jim. Spock grips Jim's left hand tightly.

The cave disappears and bright sunlight is all around them. Birds are chirping as the pair stand on green grass. There are trees, and bushes of red flowers everywhere. The fountain that Jim described is nearby, with the water gently flowing from the centerpiece onto the bottom piece. This is the place, Spock.

The pair look around and see others conversing with one another. They stop for a moment to acknowledge the newcomers before resuming their conversations. There is no sign of Saavik, but Jim does spot an old and very dear friend of his who's also a dear friend of Spock's.

"BONES!" Jim shouted verbally for the first time since reuniting with Spock.

Now, with gray hair and wrinkles on his face, McCoy grins as he sees the pair approaching. "Well, I'll be damned. About time you two got here." He hugs both men. "For Christ's sake, Jim. You couldn't die biologically old like me and that green-blooded hobgoblin of yours."

Spock raises both brows.

Jim laughs until tears are falling down his face. "Had to save the galaxy again, Bones. I took a detour."

McCoy glares at his best friend. "I remember when the reports said you were missing. I couldn't believe it when that young whipper snapper, Picard, told me he found you in the Nexus and later that you died, 'making a difference.' McCoy's face softened. "I'm glad you found, Spock."

"It is good to see you, Leonard," Spock said softly. "I missed your company, even your illogic at times."

"Why you..." McCoy doesn't finish. Instead, he hugs Spock again, who allows the contact. "I missed you too."

Two additional voices call out, "SA-FU! SPOCK! Sarek and Amanda, Spock's parents, approach the trio.

"Sa-mekh, Ko-mekh," Spock replies and holds his right hand in a ta'al. The usual greeting is left unsaid. Spock walks toward his parents.

"I am gratified to see you, Spock, although unexpected. You did not live as long as I had. It does not matter." Sarek holds his right index and middle fingers toward Amanda who responds with the same in Ozh'esta.

"I did not expect you both to be here, but I am pleased nevertheless," Spock said calmly.

"Your mother and I are together in the afterlife, although my second spouse will join us eventually in the future." Sarek looks at Jim and Leonard a short distance away, speaking with the occasional backslap and hugs. "I see James is as human as always," he said drily.

"Father, it is illogical to be critical of my husband," Spock objected, trying to remain emotionless.

"My apologies, Sa-fu. It was not my intention to criticize. Your husband is a man of good character. I said it in the past and believe it to this day. Although now that we are dead, time seems to have little meaning. I shall extend my greetings to your spouse." Sarek walks toward Jim and Leonard.

"Spock. How are you feeling, son? "I missed you," Amanda said warmly, hugging him. "I know, it's illogical, but indulge me. There's no one to criticize a mother for wanting to hug her son."

"Mother, I will not insult you by stating I have no emotions. I am feeling much better than I have in many decades. I was lonely without my adun. Now, I am complete once again," said Spock quietly.

Sarek glanced at Spock but said nothing. He nodded his approval before resuming his conversation with Jim and Leonard.

Jim occasionally smiles at Spock, still talking with Leonard and Sarek until two new voices call to him.

"JIM!"

Jim turns his head toward the source of the voices and sees a man and woman approaching. "Dad? Mom?" He excuses himself from his current company. "DAD! MOM!" Jim stares in disbelief for a few seconds before embracing both parents at once.

Leonard grins, and Sarek bows slightly before joining Spock and Amanda.

George and Winona Kirk hug Jim and hold on. "Son! I'm happy to see you, although it's strange. Here's us in the afterlife or whatever this is," George said while looking at his surroundings.

Winona kisses her son on the left cheek. "Jim, I missed you so much. You look happy. Isn't that a funny thing to say to a dead person?"

"I am, Mom. Happier than I have been in a long time," Jim said, amused. Spock, would you mind coming here for a moment?

"Mother, Father, my husband calls for me. I shall return shortly," Spock said respectfully. I will be with you momentarily, Jim. He moves toward his husband and the two people with him.

Jim reaches out with his right hand, waiting- "Mom, Dad, I would like you to meet someone."

Chapter 3: ³A Noticeable Change During the Family Talk

Summary:

Jim notices a change in Spock and has a heartwarming reunion with his parents.

Jim is about to introduce Spock to his parents when he notices something odd about the man he recently reunited with. Jim looks more closely. His eyes widened in disbelief, and a grin crossed his face. Spock! You look amazing!

Spock's face revealed his puzzlement, not realizing what his adun was smiling about.

Look at yourself, Spock. I wish I had a mirror with me so I can show you. Wait! I can show you. See what I can see. Jim's grin doesn't leave his face as he reveals what he sees in his mind. You look one hundred years younger. Your current look reminds me of the time after you recovered from the fall-tor-pan. Jim's right index and middle fingers extend toward his beloved.

Spock responds with his own to touch his husband's fingers. My hair is black, and my skin is less wrinkled. I am at a loss. He acknowledged the smile on Jim's face, along with not-so-pure thoughts through their bond. "Jim, there is time for that later. In the meantime, you asked for me?"

For a moment, Jim forgot about everything and everyone except his husband until he heard a quiet *ahem* from his father. "Sorry, Dad. Dad. Mom. I want you to meet S'Chn T'Gai Spock, my husband.

Jim's parents react with surprise at the same time.

Winona hugs Jim and extends a hand out for Spock to approach.

George remains in place, unsure of what to do next. He waits for his wife to finish and finally gives up when she keeps holding onto her son. George turns to Spock and raises his hand in a ta'al. "Hello, Spock. Welcome to the Kirk family," he said after a pause.

Spock responds with a ta'al. "It is an honor to meet you, sir. My husband has told me much about you and your wife," he said respectfully and stood straight at attention.

"Don't be so formal, Spock. We are family," replies George with a laugh. "Are all Vulcans this formal with their in-laws?"

"Dad! Give him a break. It's not every day you meet in-laws after dying," Jim chided, not too seriously. He likes you already, Spock.

Spock is unsure what to do. Hug? If his parents were beside him, Sarek may or may not react, although Amanda, being human, would be delighted. Shake hands? Being a touch telepath, getting flooded with emotions other than his husband's - would his shielding work despite being deceased? It didn't matter, as it turns out. Both Winona and George embraced their son-in-law before Jim could say anything. "I'm so happy that Jim finally settled down. I can tell you about his teenage years. He was quite the hellion," Winona said after releasing Spock.

The hugging caught Spock off guard, but instead of discomfort, he felt a warmth inside.

"MOM!" Jim admonished. I'm sorry, Spock. I didn't have time to stop my parents from hugging you. Mom will spend hours telling stories of my early days before I met you. He was about to distract his parents with more talk when Sarek and Amanda appeared beside his parents.

Sarek held his hand up in a ta'al. "Greetings, I am Sarek, and she, who is my wife, Amanda. We are Spock's parents."

Winona's eyes lit up when she saw Amanda. "You're human!"

Amanda laughs while glancing at Sarek. "I am and still emotional. My husband has gotten used to it over the years. You must be James's mom. He looks like you."

The two women move a short distance away, conversing, leaving the men to talk alone. George speaks first, "Sarek? Where have I heard that name before? Oh! The ambassador to Earth. It's a pleasure to meet you, sir. I've read many articles you wrote about meeting humans and other aliens throughout the years."

Sarek raises his right eyebrow slightly but otherwise doesn't react. "I  wrote many articles about my interactions with aliens. I am pleased the articles have your approval, Mister Kirk," Sarek said with a hint of warmth. "Is there a particular one you like to discuss?"

"Call me George, Sarek. How about the one when you first met humans? To you, we must have seemed primitive and overly emotional," George said while looking at his wife and son.

"I found your species to be highly illogical at first, but over time, I have grown accustomed to being in the company of humans," said Sarek with his lips slightly upward.

The two men also move away, leaving Jim and Spock alone.

Jim frowns when he sees the two fathers together. Shit! I forgot to tell you something, Spock. When I met Saavik before I reunited with you, there was a second Vulcan with her. I recognized him. He's your son, Sorak.

Spock raises both eyebrows in astonishment.

Chapter 4: ⁴Sorak

Summary:

Jim continues to talk with his and Spock's parents.

Spock meets his son for the first time and has a conversation with him that will answer a question he has been pondering since his Fal-tor-pan.

Spock can't hide the disbelief from his eyes. Jim? My son? I do not have a son.

Jim's eyes close momentarily before facing his husband. I saw Saavik and the other Vulcan, Beloved. He has your features. He's your son, although I have no idea why I know his name is Sorak. He was about to say more mentally when he saw a figure in the distance closer to the fountain.

The figure, dressed in a royal purple robe with gold Vuhlkansu writing, looks toward Jim, Spock, and their parents but remains where he is. There is still no sign of Saavik.

Jim lightly touches Spock on the right shoulder. By the Fountain, Spock. He turns his attention to the parents. "There are some benches nearby. Let's sit down." Jim points the way. Talk to him, Spock. I'll keep our parents busy.

Spock acknowledges his adun with a slight nod and excuses himself, promising to return shortly. At the moment, his mind fills with questions. He doesn't recall having a relationship with Saavik. Yet his husband wouldn't lie about a sensitive situation like this. As he nears the man, his feelings of trepidation grow with each passing second.

The man hears footsteps in the grass approaching him and turns around. He sees his father's face, and a slight smile is on his own. "Sa-mekh."

Spock doesn't know what to do. Should he greet this man with a ta'al? A hello? Spock finally settled on "Sa-fu."

The man raised his right hand in a ta'al. "I am Sorak, son of Saavik." He smiled again, this time a little longer. "You look like my mother described you would," Sorak said with a low voice.

Spock raised his hand in response. "I am at a loss, Sorak. I do not recall having an intimate relationship with your mother. Yet you are here. My husband saw you and your mother here when he first came to this place. It grieves me to know that you both are deceased."

"I can understand your confusion, Father. I ask permission to meld with you. I will answer your questions." Sorak's eyes look directly into his father's and sees the hesitation.

"I never melded with my father, Sorak. I will not make the same mistake with you. Proceed." Spock closes his eyes and readies himself by lowering his mental shields, except the one he keeps with Jim.

Sorak's long, thin fingers press gently against Spock's psi points on his face. "My mind to your mind. My thoughts to your thoughts." <Father? I am aware of your recent rebonding with your mate. I know how much you love him. I shall not intrude anymore. I will explain how I came to be.> He sends images of Spock's Pon-Farr when he was on the Genesis planet when his Katra was inside McCoy's mind, Saavik being a willing participant to save his life, goodbyes on T'Khasi after Spock's Fal-tor-pan, and finally how Saavik raised him alone for many years. <I will spare you on how I died. It is for another day.> He breaks off the meld. "I do not blame you, Father."

Spock briefly and gently touches his son's left cheek. "If I had known, I would have remained on T'Khasi despite your mother's insistence that I go with Jim and my friends. My adun's planet was under threat and needed my help. I apologize for not being in your life, and now that you, your mother, and I are in the afterlife, I am uncertain how to proceed."

"We have plenty of time to catch up, Father. Your place is with your bondmate," he said gently before raising his right hand again in a ta'al. "May you and your husband enjoy eternity together."

Spock raises his right hand in response. "Extend my greetings to your mother. Someday, I will speak with her." He lowered his voice, "I am pleased that we met, Sorak. There are many stories I like to tell you about my life, how I met my adun, and our lives together. I would like to know more about you, my son."

"I will, Father. My mother will be available whenever you are ready. She understands that now. You want time with your husband. You two were never supposed to be separate for so long. As humans would say- see you soon." Sorak lowered his hand and walked away. He disappears moments later.

Spock remains where he is until hearing his husband's frantic voice inside his mind. Spock, I need a little help here! My dad is driving me crazy with questions, and both moms insist we should try some of their cooking. We're dead! Do we eat?

No doubt, you would want your mom's apple pie, Jim. I have no doubt we can eat. Eating is a pleasure humans like, and sex as well. Spock thought with amusement.

NOW, SPOCK. PLEASE! Your dad is asking many questions, too.

I am coming, Jim. Spock quickly rejoins his mate and raises an eyebrow at the sight of a flustered Jim Kirk trying to answer questions without pausing.

 

Chapter 5: ⁵Farewells But Not Permanent and What's Next

Summary:

Jim and Spock say farewell to their parents and discuss what to do next.

In between, they have a heart-to-heart discussion about their children.

Spock rejoins Jim, and although he is amused, especially by the apple pie and his comment about sex, he feels strange about not being around to raise his son with Saavik. He missed Sorak's first words, first steps, school, and growing up. He can't stop thinking about Sorak.

Jim is uneasy about the talk that Spock had with Sorak. Despite the calm exterior that his husband shows to the parents, he knows Spock is still unsettled about the fact that he's a father. Jim doesn't have time to discuss the matter. He's too busy answering all the questions from both sets of parents about ship life, where they got married, the separation, their deaths, and finally unification once again.

Sarek noticed the fatigued look in Jim's eyes despite the outgoing exterior. "I must apologize, James. Amanda and I have asked too many questions. We shall take our leave."

Jim was surprised that he could feel tired despite being dead. Perhaps it's mental rather than physical tiredness. "It's alright. I guess I'm overwhelmed. Oh! I'm sorry, I'm being emotional," Jim commented, mortified he would say something like that in front of Sarek.

Sarek's face doesn't show emotion, but his tone suggests one of understanding. "Do not fret, James. I am no longer the judgemental Vulcan I once was." He raises his right hand in a ta'al. "Good journeys to you." Sarek looks at his son. "Good journeys, Sa-fu. Your mother and I will see both of you out there, somewhere in the universe."

Amanda says nothing. She smiles, kisses Spock on his left cheek, hugs Jim, and disappears with Sarek after holding his left hand.

George and Winona, witnessing the interaction between Jim and Spock's parents, also say their farewells (for now). "Jim, all you need to do is ask. We can appear at any time. There are no restrictions on time or distance," Winona said and glanced at Spock. "I think your husband has something to discuss with you," she finished gently. "Your father and I love you both." She patiently waits for George to say his farewell.

George placed a hand on Jim's left shoulder and squeezed. "Bye, son. Don't be a stranger." He directs his attention to Spock. "Take care of my boy, Spock." George winks before taking his wife's hands in his and disappears.

Jim doesn't waste any time. He holds Spock's hands, and the garden disappears. They're back inside the cave on New Vulcan, sitting on the old meditation mat. Spock? Are you alright? Jim's voice is soft and soothing. The bond ignites again with love and caring.

Spock lays his head on top of Jim's lap. I am uncertain. My son does not blame me for missing out on his life, yet part of me regrets not knowing the truth. I do not know how to be a parent.

Jim briefly smiles. I'm not the one to ask. Look how I screwed up with David. For the longest time, he and Carol hated me. I'm glad we got things in the open before he- Died.

Spock sits up. I am sorry, Ashayam. I was so absorbed in my feelings that I did not consider yours. He sighs. It is in the past. Sorak parted from me on good terms.

When the opportunity arises, your son will speak with you again, Spock. I hope you will have a chance to see Saavik. When I saw her last, she was happy - At peace with herself.

Perhaps. Spock rose from the mat. I am feeling fatigued, Jim. We should rest, although it seems illogical. We no longer have limitations with our Katras outside our physical bodies.

Jim, too, rises from the mat and walks with Spock to the ledge. Gathering extra blankets, he places them on top, slides underneath, and pats the ledge in invitation.

Spock joins Jim under the blankets, and Jim takes him in his arms before closing his eyes.

Before long, Jim is snoring softly, lying on his back with his left arm around Spock. Spock, on the other hand, cannot sleep. His mind is in turmoil. He considers Sorak's words and realizes his son wants a relationship with him. That realization eases the turmoil inside his mind, and gradually, he falls asleep peacefully.

Spock wakes first and looks at Jim's face *I love how you smile, Jim. You're so expressive.* He kisses Jim softly on the lips. Spock moves gently on top of Jim, kissing him more on his face, neck, and chest.

"Mmm," Jim responds vocally. "I like that." You're turning me on, Beloved. I want more. Jim grins as he opens his eyes and sees his husband on top.

They exchange more kisses and gradually make love. After climaxing together (with the bond between linking stronger) the two relax and start to discuss what to do next.

Jim, I will go where you want to go as long as we are together. Spock hesitates momentarily, although I wish to visit T'Khasi in our universe. I was born there and my home during my youth.

Jim doesn't take long to agree. How about we go there first? Afterward, I would like to visit Earth in the twenty-fourth century. I want to visit Starfleet headquarters. Meeting Jean-Luc Picard and seeing his Enterprise was something I'll never forget. It'll be fun to do a little 'spying' and not get caught, Jim smirked.

 

Chapter 6: ⁶Returning Home To Where It Began

Summary:

Now that they're dead, Jim and Spock visit Spock's childhood home. They find the changes unsettling.

Notes:

I apologize for the long wait between chapters. Initially, I had lost interest in writing this fic. However, I thought I would pick it up again since I have time during the day with my work schedule.

As a reminder, anything written in italics is Jim and Spock communicating mentally.

Jim and Spock have a plan. First, they will visit Spock's childhood home. Home. It seems strange to think about it now, Jim. Upon departing from my birthplace to enroll in Starfleet Academy, I no longer regarded it as home. My mother was supportive, but my father—Spock paused momentarily—it is in the past.

Jim gently laid his right hand on Spock's left shoulder. It'll be good for you to see the house again, Spock. Afterward, you can show me all the sights we never had a chance to see while we were alive. All the years we were apart, Beloved. Never mind; we can make up for lost time. Jim smiled and held Spock's hands. Ready?

Spock gripped Jim's hands tighter. I am ready.

They both disappeared from the cave and reappeared on T'Khasi moments later. In front of them stood a house with its curves and glass windows. Something was wrong. The windows were dusty, the lawn was overgrown with local wild plants, and the stairs leading to the house had cracks in them. Spock's eyes widened slightly in shock. The house! It appears to be in disrepair. It would be illogical to leave it in such a state. I do not understand what happened. Spock walked toward a sign attached to the front doorway.

COMDEMNED¹

The single word is in Vuhlkansu. Jim, let us go inside. I want to see what it is like.

Are you sure, Spock? You may not like what you find.

I need to know, Jim. I need to— Spock began to shake in despair.

I understand.

The two vanish and then reappear inside the house. The walls are flaking, the appliances are dirty and covered in cobwebs. The staircase leading to the library has broken boards.

Spock nearly has tears in his eyes.

I’m sorry, Beloved. Jim placed a comforting arm around Spock.

Notes:

Another apology for the short chapter. It's hard resuming a fic after almost 10 months of inactivity.

¹Extra Note: If anyone knows the Vulcan term for 'condemned' (or equivalent), please write a comment and I'll change it in the chapter.