#McCoy's and Spock's arguments are so important to me

[letsplaythermalnuclearwar]

I love Kirk's, Spock's and McCoy's dynamic bc McCoy could say "Spock, you're a cold blooded, pointy eared, emotionally stunted bastard. you have no heart, no passion, just a computer where your brain should be and a calculator for a soul" and Spock would respond "Doctor, you're disparaging comments are not only inaccurate and xenophobic, but reveals you're jealousy towards my superior Vulcan control. this is how an emotional and impulsive creature such as yourself processes it's own inferiority" and their besties. that was best friend bonding. their conversation turns to which crewmember is wearing the worst makeup next

meanwhile Kirk tells Spock that he looks happy today and Spock has never been so insulted

[illegalpaladin]

Drabble request: spones arguing over how to approach Jim about becoming mcspirk

Thank you for the prompt!! I am ALWAYS down for Spones arguments.

I hope you enjoy what I came up with!

“Would you stop acting like this is so goddamn simple?”

McCoy is standing next to his desk in his office. Spock stands only a few feet away. While McCoy has his arms crossed over his chest, Spock's hands are still clasped casually behind his back.

“I fail to see why you believe the situation is so complicated,” Spock says flatly.

McCoy could scream. He wants to grab Spock by the shoulders and shake him. “Because Jim is the one that pushed us together in the first place, you pointy-eared calculator!”

Spock raises an eyebrow. “Once again, I fail to see the significance.”

“Do you really not understand?” McCoy leans in closer, until he's inches away from Spock’s face. “If he wanted us that way, he would've said something then!”

Spock's eyebrow remains arched, and his head cocks slightly. He makes no effort to step away. “You have miscalculated, Leonard.”

“I haven't! We've got to play our cards right! We can't afford to mess this up!”

Spock stays calm and collected, and it's enough to make McCoy feel like he's losing his mind. “If we wish for Jim to know how we feel, Leonard,” he sighs, “we must tell him directly.”

“How you feel about what?”

McCoy's head snaps to the side, towards the doorway. Jim steps into the room, and the door slides shut behind him.

Shit.

“What must you tell me directly?”

Jim steps closer, and it takes all of McCoy's willpower to keep from stepping away.

“Nothing important,” McCoy says quickly. He feels the panic rising. “Just–”

“Leonard and I wish for you to join in our relationship,” Spock interrupts. “He insists that we must win you over. I believe a direct approach to be best.”

Silence.

McCoy feels his cheeks heating up. His heart pounds. His breaths are coming so quickly that he feels dizzy.

He gathers the courage to look at Jim just in time to see the shock on his face morph into laughter.

Jim laughs so hard he doubles over, and McCoy doesn't know what to feel when Jim wipes a tear from his eye.

“I'm afraid Spock wins the argument this time, Bones,” Jim chuckles. He straightens up, finally having composed himself enough, and looks to McCoy with a bright smile. “You’ve already won me over. I've wanted both of you for a long time.”

McCoy opens his mouth, then closes it, then opens it again. He looks to Spock, who looks unsurprised, but McCoy can still see the flicker of joy in his features.

He turns back to Jim. “Why the hell did you set the two of us up, then?”

Jim shrugs sheepishly. “You two were so obviously enamored with each other that I figured I didn't stand a chance. But that didn't mean I didn't want you to be happy.”

McCoy's heart clenches. “Why, Jim–”

“I believe we can both agree definitively that my stance on the matter was correct.” Spock straightens up and looks to McCoy with a twinkle in his eye. “Right, Leonard?”

McCoy narrows his eyes. “You want me to admit that you were right?”

“It would only be appropriate,” Spock answers with the slightest shrug.

“He's right, Bones. It's the least you can do.”

McCoy looks to Jim to find him grinning, and McCoy scowls back. “Is this how it's gonna be now? You're gonna start taking sides?”

Jim shrugs. His eyes are bright, and McCoy has a feeling Jim couldn't stop smiling if he tried.

McCoy deflates as that same joy sweeps through his own body and the fight fades away. “Fine. Just this once, I'll admit that Spock may have had the better approach.” He turns to Spock. “Happy?”

“I am quite satisfied.” Spock's lips are turned into the smallest of smiles. “And this will not be something I allow you to forget.”

[a-most-beloved-fool]

for the wip title game, 1 and 2? 👀

but also aroace spock from the tags?? I know you haven't written much about it but i will eat every crumb 🥺

title ask game!

No One Can Read Spock: Newly-minted Captain Kirk has heard rumors about his soon-to-be first officer Commander Spock, and none of them kind. He braces himself to meet someone cold and uncaring - cruel, even - but when he beams aboard the Enterprise, what he finds... isn't that. Instead, he finds someone who is kind, compassionate, funny, and genuinely likeable - and he figures that if no one else is going to befriend this Vulcan, he damn sure will!

(Originally, this was conceived as something fairly lighthearted and silly, but... it's kinda turned into Kirk vs xenophobia, ft. Spock Making Friends.)

Everyone Can Read Spock: This one features a lot of POV Outsider, a very-obviously-in-love Spock, and a Captain Kirk who... doesn't seem to notice. Somehow.

At one point, I wrote an abridged version of a scene towards the end of this because i was going to make it a tumblr post and then i decided that there was a very real chance it would get a lot of notes and i would feel guilty taking forever to write it if that happened, but, because i do think it's a banger scene (even very abridged), I'll stick it below the cut.

Aroace Spock: This one was born because I came across a few too many pieces of media that featured asexual people """Becoming Normal""" and shippy things which acted as though it were The Worst Thing Imaginable to be aromantic (OR to be in any sort of relationship with someone who was aromantic) and i got mad. Very little of it is written so far, but essentially, the plot will be thus:

Spock accidentally walks in on Kirk and Bones discussing Kirk's feelings for Spock, and then immediately flees. Kirk panics, because ohfuckwhatifiruinedourfriendship.jpeg. Spock avoids Kirk for three days or so before finally appearing in his quarters to talk. Spock feels wildly guilty about not reciprocating Kirk's feelings (because Kirk is the most important person in his life, and shouldn't that translate to love? why isn't he in love with him??). Kirk assures him that it's perfectly fine that Spock isn't in love with him - their friendship is more than enough for him. The conversation ends, and their friendship is unchanged, and both are a bit relieved and a bit disappointed. Later, Spock learns about queerplatonic relationships and is like "hey wait a minute, this could be perfect!" He brings the idea to Kirk, who is like "are you SURE you want this, and you aren't just suggesting it because you think I want it?" Spock assures him that no, he wants it, too. Cue relationship negotiation while they try to balance their various wants and needs.

Eventually, after a great deal of watching Spock Blatantly Pining, McCoy says something offhand to Jim about how Spock is in love with him. And Jim just blinks at him, confused.

"Spock isn't in love with me," he says, as though it's simple fact.

Bones raises an eyebrow, incredulous. "Jim, there's no way you haven't seen it. The damn fool loves you. He's as near to head over heels as I've ever seen!"

Stubbornly, Jim shakes his head. "I'm telling you, Bones. He doesn't love me."

"He does!"

"No," Jim insists. "I'd know if he loved me!"

McCoy crosses his arms, scoffing. "Well, I'd have thought so, too, considering how obvious he is about it, but clearly not!" McCoy knows, though, that he won't convince Kirk of the truth by simply arguing well. So, instead, he asks, "Why do you think you'd know, exactly?"

"Because Spock's a touch telepath," Kirk declares, as though that solves the matter.

"Jim," Bones says, kindly, "touch telepathy only works one way. You can't feel a Vulcan's emotions by touching them - only they can feel yours."

Kirk doesn't look very impressed by that argument. "Yes, I know that, Bones," he says. He looks almost insulted that McCoy would feel the need to explain that to him.

"Well then why the hell do you think his touch telepathy would make a difference?!" McCoy snaps.

"Because Spock would tell me, if he loved me!"

McCoy can't quite follow the argument that Jim obviously thinks he's making. "What?" he asks, clearly baffled.

Frustrated, Kirk explains step-by-step, as though describing something basic to a particularly stubborn two-year-old. "Spock's a touch telepath. I touch Spock all the time. I always have. He picks up emotions from me frequently. Therefore, there's no way Spock hasn't realized that I'm in love with him. If he loved me back, he'd tell me. He already knows where I stand on the matter."

Kirk punctuates this declaration with a self-satisfied little nod, even as his composure cracks just enough to expose the old ache of unrequited love - one which had been remarkably well-hidden until now. But, his self-pity session is rudely interrupted by McCoy bursting from his seat, expression apoplectic. A blood vessel looks near to bursting in his forehead.

"WHAT?!"

And then McCoy chucks Jim bodily at Spock and the two fools finally figure things out.

McCoy is then gifted a very nice shore leave. He's put up with enough. He's earned it.

(and actually, because why not, here's a chunk of that scene in my real writing style (though bear in mind that it'll probably go through another three rounds of editing before it's Actually Done):

McCoy blinked at him, mouth agape. “You can’t have not noticed,” he blurted, incredulous. “Jim, the man is smitten. He’s as near to head over heels as I’ve ever seen!”  

Kirk just shook his head, a wry sort of smile sitting on his lips. “Yes, yes. That’s a very funny joke, Bones. Now, I’ve got work to do, you know,” he said, and made to pick up his padd once again.  

Without thinking, McCoy reached across the deck and slammed the padd back to the table. “Damnit, Jim!” he snapped, feeling angry all of a sudden, “I’m being serious! Spock’s got feelings for you. Real, honest-to-goodness, romantic feelings!”  

Kirk stilled, and looked at him more closely, expression shifting to something kind, and, oddly, almost sad. “You are serious, aren’t you?” he mused, voice gentle. “Well, I can see how you might come to that conclusion. But – you’re wrong, I’m afraid. He doesn’t love me. Not like that, anyways.” 

And Kirk, in spite of all the evidence he had been given over the years, clearly believed it. When Spock had been being obvious, having clearly made attempts to instigate a relationship in both the Terran and Vulcan fashions before settling into his current state of “plainly in love, but not acting on it.” Had Jim simply – not seen? Not noticed? Did he pay no attention to the man he claimed was a friend? 

“Of all the oblivious–” 

“Bones,” Kirk said, raising his voice just enough to cut him off. McCoy obliged, but glared at Kirk, mutinous. “I’m telling you: he doesn’t love me.”)

[trekmupf]

The Court Room Drama AU ⚖️

Pro

Great episode to show important parts of Kirk's character

he really is affected by any death under his command and cares for his people deeply

he's really trying his best with Jamie and stays kind to her throughout

The way Kirk refuses to let the others in the bar be vague about what's going on and wants them to be direct and honest, just like he tends to be (unless it's for a ruse); instead of escalating the situation he leaves

he holds onto his beliefs not only ethically but in himself as well – he knows what he did and sticks to the truth instead of taking an easy way out, even though the situation seems hopeless

The first time we see how decorated Kirk is within Starfleet- really one of the fleets finest. Also the way Cogley frames Kirk's decorations is so well done.

When he takes the stand he is 100% sure of his actions and himself. We know that Kirk admits mistakes when he makes them, and this instance isn't one of them

Shaw in context of being Kirk's ex confirms again that he really likes smart and independent women and respects them, even after a relationship ended

Kirk has good knowledge of engineering as well

Shatner's acting in the episode is really great – he can do these subtle emotions and Kirk's character so well

Also the fact that his crew trusts him, each in their own way, and know that he wouldn't do this. 100% ride or die crew

McCoy making it clear that he stands behind Jim from the first scene with Shaw onwards; Also Bones' southern charm gets me every time

Shaw is a great character: she's much more than just an ex, she has her own believes and goals and is competent at her job; also the tension between her and Kirk rising because of her duty to her position as prosecutor, when their relationship itself as exes is fine

Actually this is how I imagine Kirk being with ex partners, very nice, lovely and amicable.

Cogley is a great character as well: very adhd smart guy vibes, initially strange but when the hearing starts he goes off and is so competent and passionate!

Proper intro of the dress uniforms! (honorary mention of Kirk's slutty wrap top, of course)

Spock and Bones serving during the hearing in said uniforms, absolute kings. Everyone looks so good in this episode.

Even though said before Spock's defence of Kirk deserves it's own point. His argument is so vulcan and suits him so well, and his trust in Kirk as a person doesn't waiver for a second during the entire episode

The same goes for McCoy (also DeForest's voice during the courtroom scene is VERY nice)

Finney is another one of Kirk's nemesis, I mean how many nemesis can one guy have, Kirk is literally the ultimate ex no one gets over (looking at Movie 2)

This episode shows once again that Starfleet isn't as cleancut as it seems and has problems – Stone offering Kirk a way out when fully believing that he made that mistake and killing Finney is questionable at best

Great episode for further world building: we learn more about Starfleet itself (it's actually the first time the name is dropped), we meet other crews, other ships get named and we get some backstory about Kirk

Even though we have multiple sets this was supposed to be a bottle episode and it shows. Set mostly on a starbase (unlike most episodes that are about new planets), the characters are in focus

Great commentary made from a 60s perspective but still relevant today: the “infallible” machine vs the fellable human. We have three people vouching for Kirk's character in court vs one video and one computer log. The people get immediatly questioned whereas the computer is factual until Spock's proves it's wrong. The idea that mashines and computers make less or no mistakes compared to people is still relevant, see the whole debate about self driving cars.

Also Cogley's speech about human rights and machines not having those rights works really well in the context (will get interesting in TNG)

Generally the acting and interaction of all characters really hold the narrative until the twist in the end

Despite the serious subject the interpersonal moments and the way Cogley works provide some tension relief

I just love the way Spock sits in the captains chair here. No notes.

Con

Jamie can be exhausting

Shaw as an ex shouldn't work this case (even though she's shown as 100% professional and capable)

I know why it's done for the narrative but resolving this serious situation with a fistfight is wild

Counter

Kirk shirt rip (I mean this is the rippiest shirt so far)

Technically Evil AI (as the concept of computers gets explored)

Quote

If I let go of a hammer on a planet that has a positive gravity, I need not see it fall to know that it has in fact fallen. - Spock, believing in Kirk

"Mr Spock, you're the most cold-blooded man I've ever known" "Why, thank you, doctor" -Bones & Spock

Moment

Spock's, McCoy's and Kirk's testimonies

Summary

A great character driven episode that focusses on Kirk as both a person and a captain as well as his relationships with the other characters. The interesting question of computers being fallible as well as a personal betrayal while Kirk's future is on the line make for a good and gripping narrative.

Previous Episode - Next Episode - All TOS Reviews

[t0ast-ghost]

S3 EP20 (The Way To Eden) Space hippies? I love an episode where someone slightly annoying is on board

Yippee kyack or whatever:

- What. The costume designs here are. I’m not even sure

- Purple hair? I bet they have pronouns too

- CHEKOV LORE?!?

- Time to ask: What the fuck is happening (edit: record time)

- Where did Spock even come from? Kirk was talking to the group and he just walks over to Spock like Spock is just always there. When did he appear???

- Spock picking up on their behaviour and copying it in a way that will get them to respond positively

- The writers created a myth about a planet. And named the planet Eden. C’mon.

- when they just start chanting Herbet it’s like Kirk becomes instantly uncool. I think if a bunch of middle schoolers just started chanting a random name at me I’d cry

- “One of those… was in the academy?” What the fuck Kirk

- I can’t tell if this episode is going to be very against the group (like Kirk is right now) or if their side of the argument will be validated to some extent (I have a feeling they might be validated cause Spock understands them and also stated that they were academic) (edit: it was a secret third option)

- idk I like this photo

- The singing sounds so off from the images, it was most likely added in post production

- “Gonna crack my knuckles and jump for joy, I got a clean bill of health from Dr. McCoy.” Goes kinda hard tbh

- NURSE CHAPEL YEAHHHHHHH. Hiiiiii

- That redshirt who looks at Chekov in the hallway is such a bitch for that look

- Kirk’s tits McCoy cracking the case. Good job👍

- Oh hi Sulu! Don’t join a cult !

- *sits down in chair and crosses leg over knee*

- Spock is so pretty ☺️☺️☺️

- Spock keeping his promise and finding Eden for the others even if the leader is a selfish prick

- We get to see Spock’s room again, I love Spock’s room, like why is there a stone statue water fountain in there? What is that?

- Chekov don’t tell her how the ship works. Do not divulge important information

- This is like the Star Trek tos musical episode, isn’t it?

- SPOCK Yes! Please play please please please please llssezz

- I like when it switches to the redshirts on the bridge just straight up jamming

- C’mon man. LOOK AT HIM

- HES JAMMING OMG SPOCKS JAMMING

- I need McCoy and Kirk to witness this

- Spock is done at the function. He leaves.

- “Adam, you know I reach you. I believe in what you seek. But there is a tragic difference between what you want and what he wants.” Spock really connects with them and it’s upsetting to see him have to witness them being misled

- At this point that guy is gonna blow up the ship

- Kirk doesn’t fuck around. If the door is locked Scotty’s gonna phaser through that fucker

- I can’t with Kirk’s faces rn

- I love the singing playing through the ship with everyone passed out, it’s such a perfect amount of eerie

- Kirk checking on Bones 🥹🥹🥹

- hiii McCoy hiiii

- I never noticed that the scanner could be uncapped and used as a healing device?

- Adam ate a pear lol

- I did NOT want to see that foot shot

- I like that Spock has such a soft side for the younger people in the show. Like he always has a sense of pride towards Chekov and cared so much about everyone in the group this episode

Thoughts are: Spock is good with kids, Kirk is terrible with kids, and McCoy is just himself always so there’s a reason he’s not a paediatrician but he’s still good with kids

Masterpost

Teleplay by Arthur Heinemann

Story by Michael Richards & Arthur Heinemann

[very-bad-poetry-captain]

TOS novel book review McCoy edition nr 4 - Planet of Judgment

I knew there was a TOS novel where McCoy's wife was called Honey and she divorced him because they hadn't been intimate in three whole weeks, but I didn't remember it was Planet of Judgment. And I am judging this book.

Link to the previous review

Title: Planet of Judgment Author: Joe Haldeman Year published: 1977 (this was one of the very first trek novels ever published)

Content warning: a few descriptions of dying and wounded people, a bit of body horror

Plot summary in two sentences: A pretty large landing party including Kirk, Spock, and McCoy get stuck on a planet where natural laws don't seem to work and they have a few very bad no good days playing "stranded on a planet trying to kill us" before the aliens make contact, and then they are experimented on but like, it's clearly for a good reason so it's all fine (it's not). This book seemed like it could have been a TOS episode but mercifully it wasn't. Official plot summary: Never before had the Enterprise been betrayed by its own technology. Never before had their systems, instruments and weapons failed to respond. And never before had Kirk, Spock, McCoy and the rest of the crew faced a total breakdown of science and sanity... until they stumbled on the mysterious world that couldn't exist... A world orbited by a black hole ruled by chaos - where man was a helpless plaything for a race of beings more powerful than the laws of the universe. A brain-bending voyage into the unknown with the Starship ENTERPRISE.

This book is for you if you:

Kinda like the classic 70s scifi plot style

Want to read every novel that has McCoy in it (his parts are fun)

Enjoy philosophical questions such as "Is experimenting on aliens ethical if the constant 'clatter clatter' from their brains is really annoying? Like, super annoying. Honest." and "If Spock has read romance novels and knows about fake dating, does that mean every fanfic on the subject where it's Spock's idea is no longer out of character (asking for a friend)?"

Want to read a really detailed description of the scene on Vulcan in Amok Time minus the part about Jim's shirt being sliced open because that was apparently not important

This book was 50% not very interesting and 50% wow, he really wrote that huh 🫢

The ultimate McCoy questionnaire under the read-more (some spoilers):

1. Is McCoy in it?

Yes! More than I excepted at the beginning of the book!

2. Is McCoy in it a lot?

If you can get through the first part of the book, McCoy gets lots of time to shine. If you cut out most of the book and keep the McCoy parts I'd say it was a really good book.

3. Does he get to be concerned over whatever angst has befallen Kirk lately?

Well, yes and no. He's befallen with the same angst. Mostly. He gets to sneak in a "heh I really don't envy you having to be captain, Captain" in there. And there's a few hours where he thinks Jim is dead. The book doesn't linger too much on his anxiety but to be fair the book skips ahead quite a lot and isn't too keen on explanations.

But in a memorable scene he cuts down a tree and it falls right on top Jim 🤨

4. Does he get to have silly little arguments with Spock?

Read these excerpts from the book and tell me this isn't potentially the weirdest exchange of words he's ever had with Spock.

There was a really classic exchange though between the three of them that hit their dynamic just right (after Spock and McCoy join Jim to be stranded with him on the planet because they missed him):

Spock: You volunteered for the mission, Doctor. Surely there must have been some thread of logic to support your decision.

McCoy: Only intuition, Spock. Worked out the same.

Kirk: Whatever your reasons, I'm glad to see both of you but sorry we put you in the soup.

5. Is he the damsel in distress?

Not at all :/ But he does say "Good God. I wish Jim was here." so at least he was feeling like a damsel in distress.

6. Does he suffer, preferably a lot? Physical and/or psychological torment.

Mostly psychological, there's the experimenting of course and an injured crewmember that disappears and comes back all wrong and of course he blames himself for it for a while. And he gets to re-live when his wife left him. Because they, uh, haven't been intimate since March 3rd (three weeks ago). Presumably that wasn't the only thing but his immediate reaction to her taking their daughter and leaving the apartment is seeing an ad for Starfleet in a magazine and going "oh yeah I'll join Starfleet, that'll show her". Show her what? I have questions, Mr. Haldeman. And I think he could have suffered a bit more but I suppose there needed to be enough room for Kirk to have a sword-fight against pirates.

7. Does he get to whine and complain and be right about it? Even better, is he wrong about it?

Both he and Jim have these weird little rambling half-asleep thinking sessions that take up a couple of pages of unstructured and barely legible writing. He does complain about the experimentation though, and he gives Jim a really dirty look once. Most of his complaints are very reasonable in this one.

8. Does he get to throw some of that southern charm around?

There's a throwaway line that he's interested in one of the women in the landing party, but it really is thrown away and not used? He's always charming, though. Why is this even a question. Even Spock agrees in this book.

9. Does he get to do some medical malpractice?

Well now. He has to do stitches and use a knife, not even a clean one. And you know he hates such medieval practices but the medical instruments aren't working. I'd say that counts as medical malpractice. He also gets to kill a guy? I think that goes against his oath or something.

10. Does Spock call him illogical or similar?

Only a little bit. This is one of those missions where they finish each other's thoughts etc. so like. They're besties<3

11. Is he forcibly put through his arch nemesis the transporter? Or the dress uniform?

He has to go in a shuttle (not shown but I assume he didn't like it) and then he gets telepathically beamed through space by aliens with pretty bad aim several times :3

12. Does Kirk call him handsome (joke or not this happens more than you’d think)?

No but he complains that McCoy knows all the ship's scuttlebutt about who's sleeping with who and so on. McCoy was so ready to read out a list to Jim but I think he decided that as captain he's better off not knowing. And he tells McCoy not to get into mutiny-territory which, when you think about it, is kind of the same as calling him hot.

13. Bonus points if his accent is pronounced and his speech is full of befuddling southern expressions which make Spock question McCoy’s sanity (and me wondering if I need a dictionary)

He calls Spock "weirder than a whistling fish" and it took me forever to realize it wasn't some southern expression (or is it?) it's just that if a fish whistled it would be pretty weird. Anyway Spock is like yeah okay fair enough.

McCoy calls one of the aliens "ugly son of a bitch" so at least he got to swear in this one.

Criticisms/things I’d change

I'm sure this book is a product of its time so I won't be too hard on it. But if I could, I'd definitely elaborate on the scene where Spock asks McCoy to help him get rid of Chapel's interest in him. Like, I just think it has so much potential. Just trust me on this I'll make it really normal and not at all weird (it was already weird). Jokes aside I think they spent too much time playing "help we're stranded on a planet trying to kill us" and in the end no one even explained how all the science around the planet worked, just chalked it up to "oooh powerful aliens". The ending was interesting though. Being experimented on is enrichment for Starfleet officers.

Highlights:

To be honest the best part was where the aliens beamed everyone back to the ship using their mind powers only, except for Jim and Spock, and then after ten minutes they were like hey actually we made a mistake we're bringing McCoy back. They put my poor wife through something worse than the transporter twice when they could have just kept him on the planet all along, and said hey how about you help us save the world against evil scorpions with your will power, no pressure but we start in ten minutes and you'll probably die :D Also he sleeps on a bunch of cardboard boxes? And gets to cut down trees with the scifi equivalent of a chainsaw? And he gets to play mind poker in some kind of gangster movie setting... Fun times all around!

Final McCoy meter: 8/10

[sleepymccoy]

Fuck it, Ive found myself googling topics to start a fight again cos I'm trying to write spones, so I'm creating a list for myself here. If you have suggestions please feel free to add them. You are also welcome to use this as a prompt, although I don't know if it'll really help

These are mostly nicked from other lists, so hey may need tweaking to be more star trek sci fi in vibe. But I think they suit the sort of fights they have. Entertainingly, many of the questions on these lists have already been addressed my star trek. Like, I'm not going to go into eugenics here. They have a whole arc in tos where everyone expresses their opinions on eugenics (against) (the Khan stuff). So like, those aren't included! Or questions about ubi, trek world is a successful communist, they're all pro ubi.

Anyway. I've tried to hash it down to topics where I can easily see either how they disagree, or I can see how they agree but for different reasons. And, as this is for me, I might even include some of those details too!

Is technology making us more or less connected?

Could argue either way. McCoy's only contact with his kid is via tech, so he could be in favour. Same with Spock, but I think vulcans have a lot of physical cultural stuff that form part of gathering that (American) humans don't as much. Like, incense and how the planet is a different temp to the ship. So, maybe Spock is really feeling how tech is a shadow of the real thing more.

OR

McCoy hates and is unimpresssed by tech, and just wants to be home. Spock is perfectly happy with the perfunctory contact w his parents.

Is censorship ever acceptable in art and media?

This one is fun cos you can world build a bit with the premise. What's the art and media? I think McCoy has one of those inspected opinions, he's against censorship until you start listing terrible things then he gets annoyed cos he kind of agrees with a little bit of censorship. He doesn't think dead bodies should be shown on billboards across from schools. But he says, when asked, that he's against any censorship.

I think Vulcan has censored pre reform stuff from society quite a lot. And Spock's opinion on this is a real character choice you can make, does he agree people should only find out about history in university when you're spoon fed it kindly enough? Or does he think everyone should know?

Should we prioritize space exploration or focus on fixing problems on Earth?

This one is hilarious to me, cos they both work exploring space. But I think McCoy could get worked up over the focus and energy being on new space stuff if they're leaving hungry children behind, you know. I think Spock leans bigger picture

Is traditional marriage still relevant in modern society?

Ha! Have a great time! They'll be so off topic within a minute and just discussing their personal life that their opinion doesn't bloody matter

Is privacy more important than national security?

I think Spock is more into privacy then McCoy. Can't put my finger on why, I might come back to this

How can a good diet be used to control certain diseases?

I think the groundwork of this argument is that McCoy is having a go at Spock being vegetarian. So they're discussing broadly, but McCoy keeps slipping in how great meat is lol

Is it better to live in a big city or a small town?

Spock likes cities! McCoy likes small towns! This can devolve into a squabble about feudalism if you want to go crazy

Animal zoos: are they morally acceptable?

This is good worldbuilding too, zoos would be more rehab centres now. But Spock likes to have a go at old earth practices too just to see McCoy go red

Is online learning as effective as traditional in-person learning?

I reckon Spock likes online learning. The little freak

Is online dating more effective than traditional dating?

Heheheheheheh make them fight about dating. Make them list their favourite types of dates in an aggressive way. Heheheh

[swimmingwolf59]

I’m overthinking about Journey to Babel again lol, but something occurred to me for the first time so I thought I’d share it!

Something I think about a lot and really enjoy about this episode is that, indirectly, and without Kirk’s interference, Spock's decision to give his loyalty to Starfleet would've been the death of his father. He was all for donating the blood necessary for his father’s procedure (even basically logic’d his way into forcing McCoy to go along with him and his sketchy drug plan lol), but as soon as Kirk gets injured he balks.

SPOCK: My first responsibility is to the ship. Our passengers' safety is by Starfleet order of first importance. We are being followed by an alien, possibly hostile, vessel. I cannot relinquish command under these circumstances. MCCOY: You can turn command over to Scotty. SPOCK: On what grounds, Doctor? Command requirements do not recognise personal privilege.

Spock can't donate blood because his duty lies with captaining the Enterprise (even if Scotty absolutely can and has captained the ship under strange circumstances but we’ll ignore that for now lol).

We know that the original rift between Spock and Sarek was formed because Spock wanted to join Starfleet, and Sarek disapproved because he thought Starfleet was too militaristic. He also wanted Spock to be a science officer at the VSA, and for Spock to follow in his own footsteps.

So, now. This scene:

SPOCK: Mother, how can you have lived on Vulcan so long, married a Vulcan, raised a son on Vulcan, without understanding what it means to be a Vulcan? AMANDA: If this is what it means, I don't want to know. SPOCK: It means to adopt a philosophy, a way of life, which is logical and beneficial. We cannot disregard that philosophy merely for personal gain, no matter how important that gain might be. AMANDA: Nothing is as important as your father's life. SPOCK: Can you imagine what my father would say if I were to agree, if I were to give up command of this vessel, jeopardise hundreds of lives, risk interplanetary war, all for the life of one person?

I used to interpret this exchange as Spock believing that Sarek would criticize him for being overly emotional and not making the logical decision. While there might still be some of that, I kinda read this scene a little differently now. Instead of being about logic v. emotion, I think it’s more a continuation of Sarek and Spock’s argument from 18 years ago. If Spock can turn his back on his duties as a Starfleet officer so easily (”easily” lol), why did he rebel against Sarek to choose it in the first place? Why didn't he just stay on Vulcan and do as his father wished?

I think Spock may have meant that taking this course of action, in his mind, would only further Sarek's belief that he made the wrong choice.

Can you imagine what my father would say, if I turned my back on the very thing I tried to convince him was so important.

I mean, it’s certainly something to sign your father’s death warrant over an argument LOL but this family is just the WORST at communicating all across the board. And apparently being a hypocrite is worse than anything else :D

[lenievi]

idk if I ever talked about it here but I do love the end of Bread and Circuses novelization

"Doctor . . . the next time I have an opportunity to save your life—" "—you'll do the logical thing, save me." McCoy smiled. "Comforting to know that, Spock." Something good had happened between the two, Kirk thought. He was glad. Both men were dear to him. It was high time they admitted how dear they were to each other. Though he knew how little their sparring meant, it was a waste of time that could be better spent. On the other hand, who knew? There were many ways of revealing affection. (James Blish - Star Trek)

because the argument was so very important for spock and mccoy as characters and for their relationship and it’s nice that the novelization acknowledges it via kirk’s observation

but also that exchange between spock and mccoy is <3

[mybullshitsensesaretingling]

A Vulcan Smile Part Three

[Part one] [Part two]

A/N: Lunar eclipses are ever 2.5 years on Earth. I just want y’all to know that

“How is it? Is it bad?” Joanna asked, peeping over the computer at you. “How bad is it?” 

“It’s not bad. It’s really good,” you told her. “Now go away and let me finish.”

With one last worried look, she went back to the sofa and you went back to reading her paper, but before you could make it through even a paragraph another McCoy interrupted you. 

“Is she gonna get an A?” Leonard put a hand on the desk and leaned over you to see the computer screen. “She better get an A.” 

“Leonard, I know that you don’t get to be here very often,” you turned your head slightly so that you could see his face, “but the whole helicopter dad thing you got going on is starting to drive me a little nuts?” 

“I’m the helicopter?” He met your gaze. “How many teachers make home visits?” 

“This is a big assignment.” 

“You’ve been here three days this week,’ he pointed out. 

“If you’re just going to complain, could you do it somewhere else so I can focus?” 

He looked back at the screen. “I’m not complaining.” 

You raised an eyebrow at him, but didn’t say anything, choosing instead to return to reading. The two of you read in silence for a moment, before a line caught your eye. 

“Looks like your snarkiness rubbed off on her,” you smiled, pointing out the line. “She’s pretty witty.” 

He looked down at you. “That was almost a compliment.” 

You ignored his comment, but the smile didn’t leave your face as you finished the paper. 

“She’s gonna get an A.” 

“She will once I fix the spelling. Move over.” He nudged the chair. “Apparently the dyslexia really is a family trait.” 

You leaned back in the desk chair. “You knew Spock had dyslexia but you didn’t know he had a sister?” 

“The details that man finds important enough to share astounds me too.” He motioned for you to get out of the chair so he could sit. “Do me a favor and tell Joanna to get ready for bed.” 

“Sure.” You got up and headed to the living room. “I do all the other parenting for you.” 

“I heard that.” 

“You were meant to,” you called back as you took a seat next to Joanna. “I’ve got good news and bad news, but I think there’s wiggly room on the bad news.” 

“Good news first,” she requested. 

“Good news is your paper is great and I’m super proud.” You held up your hand for her to high five. “Bad news is your dad wants you to go to bed soon.” 

She started to groan in complaint when she remembered your earlier comment. “You said there was wiggle room?” 

“There’s a lunar eclipse tonight. I think we convince him that staying up past your bedtime would be beneficial to your education.” 

She grinned at your suggestion. 

“That’s not gonna happen,” the doctor said as he crossed the room. 

“An appreciation and understanding of the universe is important to a young girl's development,” you told him. 

“So is sleep.” 

“She can sleep any night. She can only see a lunar eclipse every three years,” you argued.

His eyebrows lowered as his counterargument took shape in his mind. Joanna looked up at you with wide, insistent eyes and you gave her a small nod to let her know you had a handle on the situation. 

You looked back to Leonard and continued your argument before he had time to finish his, “You’ve already deprived her of the opportunity to live among the stars and learn all there is to learn about the universe while being raised by her father. Are you really going to deprive her of this too?” 

His eyebrows managed to lower further. He opened his mouth, closed it, and opened it once more. “I am not depriving her of anything. I am protecting her from the dangers of living on a starship.” 

Joanna rolled her eyes. 

“And now you’ve been provided the opportunity to show her the wonders of the stars safely from the ground. Don’t miss it.” 

“The wonders,” he scoffed under his breath. 

“Don’t let her grow up to be as cynical as you. Not yet.” You put your hands on Joanna’s shoulders as she did her best to look young and sweet. “Protect and foster her joy and innocence while she still has it.” 

His glare was flattering at the power of her puppy dog eyes and finally he sighed, “Fine.” 

Joanna cheered and sprinted out the front door. 

He crossed his arms. “You know she’s not gonna make it until the moon is even half in shadow.” 

“Maybe not,” you smiled, “but she’ll always remember that you let her try.” 

His expression softened further as he watched you follow his daughter outside. 

As usual, he was only half right. Joanna had stayed up to see the planet’s shadow move halfway across the moon, but had fallen asleep soon after. Her legs were draped over her father’s and her head resting in your lap as she snored softly. Your fingers weaved small braids into her hair while she slept. Quietly, you named the stars. You had started for Joanna’s benefit, teaching her the stars she could see from Earth when she was small. But you found yourself continuing long after her eyes had closed. You were barely aware of the words you were saying anymore and you were sure Leonard wasn’t paying attention. 

When you dropped your gaze from the moon you found him staring at you. Finally, the stream of star facts came to a stop. 

“Sorry,” your voice dropped an octave. “Didn’t realize how much I was infodumping.” 

“You do tend to babble,” he smiled softly to let you know he was joking. Or maybe he was letting you know that he didn’t mind. “You’re a good teacher.”  

You chuckled lightly, “Thanks.”

“But why are you here?” You raised an eyebrow at his question and he quickly explained, “If you like space so much why aren’t you working up there? They’re always looking for teachers on space stations.” 

You shuttered at the idea. “Can’t stand those death traps. They’re nothing but a testament to the federation’s hubris.” You looked back at the sky but not before you caught his smile widening ever so slightly. “I don’t know how much of this is a genuine interest anymore and how much is just affection for Spock.” 

“How’s that?”

You sighed deeply trying to figure out how to explain your complicated emotions around the subject. “Spock and I aren’t close. You may have noticed that we don’t have a lot in common.” 

“Yeah, I picked up on that.”

“Well, the one thing we did have in common were the stars. Interest in the sciences was always encouraged in our home so we could go out at night to watch the stars without being questioned. And if Sarek was gone we were allowed to just be. No pressure to hide and suppress every emotion, to stifle every human instinct.” You finished the braid you had been working on and picked up another lock of hair. “We watched every astronomical event together. Even when Spock had run away, if there was a meteor shower I could walk outside at one in the morning and find him waiting for me, like nothing had happened.” 

“Now it’s all we have left. We don’t have a shared home or parents to bring us together anymore. I haven’t even seen him in five years. But every time there’s an upcoming astronomical event, I get a subspace message detailing the event in flawless academic writing.” You chuckled. “I guess it’s Spock's way of saying he loves me.” 

“That’s unexpectedly beautiful,” Leonard told you. “I didn’t think Spock had it in him.”

[calliecat93]

Okay, I know that the Spones content in Bread and Circuses has been talked about before, so I’m likely adding nothing new. But heck with it, I’m talking about it anyways cause it’s just too good not to!

The episode has Spock and McCoy somewhat saltier towards each other than usual. From the second the episode resumes after the opening credits, they’re snarking at each other almost immediately. It goes on for so long that we have the guest character outright ask Kirk if they’re enemies, and even he isn’t for sure. It’s almost like one of the writers anticipated the fact that some would legit think that the two genuinely hated each other, and decided to ask the question. For the most part, their banter is mutual and they’re clearly trying to rouse a reaction from the other.Even when at gunpoint, McCoy just HAS to snap at Spock for “[being] so blasted honest?’. Spock’s raised brow to me almost came across like ‘really doctor? must you be like this now?”. It’s got some amusing stuff, like the banter in the beginning and McCoy of all being being the one to suggest illogic regarding sun worshipers has Spock giving some utterly hilarious facial expressions. But still, the banter goes enough that event he audience has to ask: are these two truly enemies.

The rest of their scenes answer the question.

During the gladiator fight, McCoy’s still so pissed off that even fighting to the death won’t stop him from yelling at Spock when he asks if he needs help. Stress and you know… trying not to die is a factor, but still. But since McCoy’s a doctor, not a warrior he’s about to be killed… until Spock takes out his own opponent and nerve punches McCoy’s before he can be harmed. Doing this breaks the rules and Kirk chooses to take what would be their death sentence upon himself. Spock acted on pure instinct in that instant. Or even more bluntly, it was an emotional response. He interfered because he didn’t want McCoy to die, and he was the only one in a positon to save him. He even seems pretty started that he did so. But because of i, now Kirk is going to die in their places and neither he nor McCoy can do anything about it. He outright pulls at the cell bars, according to McCoy, fifteen times. Logically it’s pretty clear that it’s not working.

With this, McCoy’s now cooled down enough that he legitimately tries to thank Spock for saving him. It’s awkward, neither one are very good at having heart-to-hearts with each other. Spock pretty much acts like it’s the usual banter and kind of condescendingly before telling him to get to the point, which causes McCoy to just snap it out at him. Spock tries to go into the usual ‘I’m a logical Vulcan’ spiel, saying quote:

Spock: Oh, yes. You humans have that emotional need to express gratitude. You're welcome, I believe, is the correct response. However, Doctor, you must remember I am entirely motivated by logic. The loss of our ship's surgeon, whatever I think of his skill, would mean a reduction in the efficiency of the Enterprise and therefore-.

Which is what finally gets McCoy pissed off enough to directly confront him about it. Why? Because he knows that Spock’s spitballing here. He’s trying to deny his emotional responses, despite having demonstrated it at least twice with McCoy right there for both of them. Saving McCoy despite knowing the consequences of doing so was an emotional response. Trying to escape the cell due to Jim’s life being in danger despite all efforts failing is an emotional response. He tries to say it’s just due to professionalism, but at this point there’s been enough episodes that the audience knows that that’s not true. McCoy absolutely knows it. He knows how Spock tends to keep his emotions suppressed and deny that he even has them, even though he very clearly does. It is a factor that has continuously frustrated McCoy. He’d never force Spock to be outwardly emotional, Plato’s Stepchildren made that VERY clear. But when it DOES happen and Spock tries to act otherwise? And after having dealt with this for nearly two years now? Yeah, McCoy decides that he’s had it as he grabs Spock, turns him around so that they’re making clear eye-contact, and makes his opinion VERY clear.

McCoy: Do you know why you're not afraid to die, Spock? You're more afraid of living. Each day you stay alive is just one more day you might slip and let your human half peek out. That's it, isn't it? Insecurity. Why, you wouldn't know what to do with a genuine, warm, decent feeling.

Which… he’s not entirely wrong. Even during this, Spock turns away from him like he doesn’t want to talk about it. But McCoy’s right. Spock’s been at war with his Vulcan and human halves for his entire life. He chose to suppress the human half, and it peaking out does concern him. He isn’t able to settle two sides, hence why he’s always insistent about being a logical, unfeelign Vulcan. Now we all know that Vulcans DO feel things. Very strongly in fact, hence why they suppress it to begin with. But I do think it’s safe to say that Spock is afraid of expressing or even talking about his emotions. Whenever he does, he needs to get his grip back on the Vulcan side as quickly as possible. Even though he knows that McCoy knows otherwise. McCoy is pretty damn good at picking up on Spock’s emotional state and Spock knows it. And I think to at least an extent, he knows that McCoy’s correct. McCoy might be being too harsh admittedly, but the point is there. Spock is afraid of letting his human half slip out and the constant struggle of keeping it in check.

I think this is what makes their relationship so important. McCoy’s really the only person who can provoke Spock like this. Sure Kirk can normally reach out to Spock, but he’s not as likely to directly confront Spock and be blunt about it the same way that McCoy can. Spock’s also really the only person who’s ever been able to provoke McCoy and get him think past his own perspective the way that he does. It’s vitriolic in many ways. Like I said, it’s hard for them to really be civil with each other most of the time. Even here when McCoy did try to start off as civil when he tried thanking Spock, it ultimately devolved into another argument. Even McCoy expressed that he isn’t sure why it’s always like this when he says “ I know we've had our disagreements. Maybe they're jokes. I don't know.” But I do think that the episode demonstrates the answer to the queation of if they’re enemies. The short answer is no. The long answer is that they have a very complicated relationship that on a surface level, comes across as hatred. It gets to the point where even they aren’t fully sure. But the truth is they do care about each other greatly. They understand each other a great deal. They’re the only ones who can reach out to the other. The way that they show it is unorthodox sure, but it’s how it works for them.

And even when they are particularly heated, it always ends with them coming down from it and finding a point of unity. In this case, there is absolutely one thing that they can agree on.

Spock: Really, Doctor?

McCoy: I know. I'm worried about Jim, too.

While their concern for Jim is true, I think McCoy brought used that more as a way to bring them both back down after the exchange. Jim and his well-being is very much the one thing that they can agree on. I serves as a calming down point for them n this particular instant. After this while they don’t have anymore direct interactions, they seem to be on good terms and even enter the Bridge together at the end. They still have their heated moments in later episodes such as The Paradise Syndrome and The Tholian Web. But I think that for those who really do think that Spock and McCoy hate each other, I’d say watch this episode again and give their interactios a closer look. Especially the prison scene. Because it shows that for all their banter, for all their differences, there is a strong connection that is very much uniquely them.

[sponesstan]

A Movie Review, if you can call it that

So I just watched Star Trek IV: The One with the Whales In It for the first time, and wow I loved it. I knew the general plot and the general reason why whales were important to the story, but not the details. Also here’s a confession, I’ve never seen TOS, but I want to. My dad gave me a brief summary of the first 3 movies so I could understand the references related to Spock, so I wasn’t really lost watching.

I guess here’s a review, which is more my thoughts and experience watching than discussing whether it’s a good movie (b/c of course it’s good):

Despite knowing that time travel and things were going to happen, I didn’t know much else. I knew the truck seen with “Gracie is pregnant” but not who Gracie was. Honestly I was waiting for the reveal that Spock was in a relationship with someone from 1987, not that he had telepathically communicated with a whale. Going in knowing famous scenes and lines made me excited to get to those scenes so I knew how they were said and the context.

The entire time I kept thinking “where does the hospital tie into the plot? What could be at the hospital?” Chekov apparently 😅 I never considered the fact that stealing whales would’ve been an entire operation (should’ve knowing the “nuclear wessels” scene would happen).

I also enjoyed seeing the bridge crew other than McSpirk. Seeing gifs and photos from the movie on tumblr, they aren’t really seen, and it makes me sad because they were all great!

Speaking of, can I talk about the outfits??? I. LOVED. THEM. The pink shirt Kirk has, Uhura’s alternating color collar on her jacket, Sulu’s shirt and jacket, Chekov’s jacket, Spock’s head band (I’ll talk about that in a sec), and cowboy McCoy???? Fashion at it’s peak

Seeing photos of the movie, I thought the head band was odd but just figured it was part of the outfit. Of course it COVERS HIS EARS. God I’m stupid.

Now for the relationships. I really need to see whatever the fuck that mind meld scene is with McCoy and Spock, because the friendship and romantic scenes with them that come from it, especially from McCoy, my heart. All I ever see on tumblr is their arguments and insults (only from McCoy though I know it’s mutual in the series from this post), but I loved watching them (McCoy) be so nice.

Also, Kirk was only given Gillian as a somewhat love interest to offset that shirt, no I don’t take criticism

To talk more about plot points and scenes, I love the absolute lack of permission they had to go time travel. Just “hey we are doin this byyyyye ✨” Was that, is that within Starfleet regulation? They held a trial, but that was for previous offenses. Also Spock just jumping into that tank. That’s what peak performance looks like. Once Jim noticed Spock wasn’t with him I knew we were about to see him in that tank.

A “true” review would look like this: The relationships and the tasks of the characters were amazing. I liked that they split up into teams to commit various heists and frauds. The outfits were iconic, though they did not make much sense in terms of who was and wasn’t in uniform (maybe I need to watch Star Trek III to understand). Though the plot was simple, I was engaged the entire time and was trying to not get got smiling like an idiot in front of my family. It was funny, cute, and I just liked watching the characters talk to each other.

Enjoy some badly taken photos of some gays going out for brunch in their best outfits

[kinetic-elaboration]

September 1: 3x06 Spectre of the Gun

Okay so, it might be a little early to declare myself a S3 apologist, since there are still a lot of eps I’ve never seen, but I feel like I’m pretty close..

This ep was so good!! Honestly I think it’s one of my faves. And perfect to usher in Spooky Season.

Honestly, this show really is my happy place. Just all the characters together on the bridge, on some kinda adventure, looking at weird space buoys and investigating stuff.

Again, this buoy looks like a Windows 98 screensaver.

Kirk keeps referring to Spock as “Science Officer.” Is he mad at him? Full of some particularly intense longing that requires him to put extra distance between them?

Excuse me, you address US as aliens? YOU’RE the aliens.

Hmmm, so it seems they’re not friendly.

It’s addressing them in different languages!!! I love it. Love the reminder that Uhura’s first language is not English,also.

“True telepaths are dangerous.” As opposed to fake telepaths like Vulcans lol?

The Melkotians withdrew immediately. They invented space travel, they saw space, and they said “not for us” and they turned around and left. McCoy would like them; they’d have a lot to gripe about together.

The welcome mat is NOT out.

“Unlike Mr. Scott’s transporter, this unit is not functioning.”

It legit looked like Spock put his hand on Kirk’s back there. Like he clearly raises it, but not far enough to be seen above Kirk, so like.. what was the point? Where did it go?

LEE CRONIN--oh no, flashbacks lol.

“We come in peace”--immediately pulls out gun.

I should have watched this when writing my Western fic.

Just bits and pieces of a Western town... and a completely red sky...

The guns are “crude but dangerous.” If only Sulu were here; he’d love this.

An announcement with a specific time and place on it--that’s a very precise detail to just pull from their minds. Must have come from Kirk’s, that nerd. Maybe Spock. But probably Kirk.

“Because my ancestors pioneered the American frontier.” I mean did they really get to the frontier? Or just... the Midwest?

Maybe it’s actually because he’s a cowboy at heart?

Aliens using his own ancestral sins as the pattern for his own death for breaking their law IS a great (possibly partially unintended) idea. Oh also, if they think that Kirk and co. are here to ‘tame’ or colonize them, then the Western setting makes even more sense--you’re no different from your ancestors, you came somewhere new and brought lawlessness and violence and death, but not this time!

Can you believe Kirk knows all of these details about the OK Corral? NERD.

Spock is so proud of himself for knowing the phrase “had it out.” Look, I used slang correctly!

These are some creative aliens.

“We know death is real here.” Or is it? They’re literally telepaths guys.

Hmmm, this building doesn’t need a roof I think. - The aliens probably

Can’t believe Scotty thinks his usual is his actual usual lol. You’re going to drink bourbon and like it!

Kirk and Spock look so good together.

They’re obviously Chekov’s disapproving parents.

“The day is still young, Ensign.” I don’t remember the exact context of this but Spock is SO judgmental.

What is Kirk doing? This guy is a hallucination; he won’t be convinced by touching some cloth. There’s nothing to convince! He’s only a Concept.

“Have you seen clothes like this?” / “Yes.” / “Where?” / “On the Claytons!” Comedy gold.

Kirk really thinks he can charm his way out of anything. Hmmm, maybe if I just talk nicely to the Earps, they won’t kill us.

“In small amounts, it [bourbon] was considered medicinal.” Lol.

Scotty is becoming a bourbon guy!

“Mr. Chekov is inVOLVed” lol. Is that what the kids are calling it these days?

“A lot of people and things have tried to kill me.” No need to brag.

THAT’S how you make a city limits sign. Put a dead animal skull on top. I live quite close to a city limits sign and I think it could use a cow skull.

Western Cossacks!!

Poisonous snakes and cactus plants. That really distills the Aesthetic down to its core.

This is a good Kirk episode. He’s really being a good Captain: coming up with different ideas, being creative, pushing his crew to brainstorm.

Bones and his tranqs again.

Bones meets his old nemesis: Old Timey Medicine.

Why was Doc Holiday just...chilling in his own dentist chair? (My mom suggested: power nap. Let’s go with that. Power nap + ability for optimally dramatic entrance.)

Also I can’t believe McCoy just goes into this guy’s practice and starts helping himself to all the serious drugs.

Chekov definitely isn’t the marrying kind.

RIP Chekov.

Bones does not sound very sympathetic here. Jim, get over it, he just died, whatever.

And then two seconds later he turns around and tells Spock he’s not sad enough! You can’t win.

“We all knew the risk when we joined the service.”

“My feelings are not a subject for discussion.” !!!!!!! This line!!

“You worked closely with him.” Yes! Chekov is his protege!

“Bones, Scotty, stop bullying Spock.” <-- not an actual quote but it might as well be.

If this were AOS, Spock would already be choking Bones out.

Whoops, no one told Chekov he wasn’t supposed to die!

“Let’s organize! Let’s form an anti-Earp union!”

“I can’t kill them!” he says in a mad rage.

I mean, it is important, though. That’s not what he does.

Kirk is /disgusted/ by lawlessness and frontier justice. What a Rebel TM.

I feel like Bones was waiting for the gotcha moment when Spock compliments him. “Saying nice things about me? That’s not how this relationship works!”

“Nothing can go wrong.” / “Up to now, everything has gone wrong.” He has a point.

That pause before Spock admitted it hasn’t been tested lol--they don’t want to admit it.

“[The bourbon’s] for the pain.” / “But this is painless.” / “You should have told me that before.” The unexpected comedy stylings of Scotty and Spock.

It doesn’t work--guess Spock’s got to take back that compliment now.

“Captain, you don’t understand--they’ve been telepaths the whole time which we already knew!”

“We’re not going to move from the spot.” * is immediately in a different spot * Well I mean at least he’s trying. He’s doing his best!

Love the OK Corral sign also. Weirdly creepy. With its accompanying horse.

Spock doesn’t have any hips for the holster to rest on.

“What did Chekov die of?” / “A piece of lead in his body.” That would do it.

If the tranquilizer should have been effective, does that mean Scotty is actually passed out right now?

Honestly, this is all so spooky. TRUE Western Horror Ghost Vibes.

Also very trippy. If you don’t believe it... it’s not real... some kinda weird chicken and the egg argument regarding our belief in the truth of physical laws idk but it sounds good. Spock brings it home.

Even with the wind whipping around him, Kirk is SO in love. His absolutely adoring expression... So soft...

“Very well, Sir, I’ll meld with you again. Not that I particularly want to. It will be a sacrifice. But I’ll manage. Even though you’re such a dynamic individual haha ha I’m fine I’m cool.”

I feel like Scotty is NOT into the mind meld. He looks terrified. Maybe he should have saved the bourbon for this occasion.

I know the mind meld is supposed to be a replacement for on screen hypnotism...but is this not hypnotism? Like even more than past uses? In this case, Spock is leaving them with suggestions that he wants to continue AFTER the meld, as opposed to, like, efficiently sharing information or giving immediate suggestions. And the scenes themselves are very creepy and...hypnotic.

Kirk’s patented move: WHOLE BODY ATTACK.

Well, we wrapped that up right quick.

Did they... never actually leave the bridge? Or even navigate past the buoy? This actually brings up a lot of questions as to when the aliens started the hallucinations, what their bodies looked like to the rest of the crew, and how they woke up--since there’s obviously been a bit of a time skip, as Bones is already examining Chekov.

Lol at Chekov, saved by horniness. “Nothing but the girl was real to him.”

“A vast alliance of fellow creatures who all believe in the same thing...”

Kirk’s vision of the utopian future is so powerful, he’s effectively gotten the welcome mat put back out.

A personal question? Kirk is intrigued.

Ah, but it’s just another excuse for Spock to be a hypocrite--how did humans survive? How did VULCANS survive? And for the show to remind us of its utopian vision of the future... we will move past violence, we will prove ourselves attractive to and worth of new alien friends.

Then McCoy walks out so Kirk and Spock can have their Moment. He undoubtedly knows what’s up.

So this ep was shown one day before the anniversary of the shootout at the OK Corral AND on Halloween week. It is very much a spooky season episode. So surreal and strange. Ghostly.

I know using sets rather than on location shoots, and not even building whole sets, was a budgetary issue but tbqh I think it worked in the ep’s favor. It added to the alien feeling of it and was an accidentally creative way of showing that these images were pulled from Kirk’s mind.

This felt like a very Classic S1-ish ep to me. I think it’s because Kirk was foregrounded as the Captain/hero and we get to see not just his intelligence and creativity and leadership but also his compassion and his moral core. He IS the values of the series, personified, and that was clear here.

But we also got to see lots of him and Spock, casually working as a pair, and the use of the rest of the landing party crew was very deft also. I loved that there was time to mock Chekov’s horniness, to talk about Spock and Chekov’s professional relationship, to joke around with Scotty, to show more of the Spock and Bones dynamic.

Again, great sci fi concept. I think this would have been another possible inspo for my Pirate AU if I’d seen it in time (although I think I picked a good mission-concept ultimately). I’m fascinated by the Melkotians: who are they? What do they really look like? Do they communicate any other way but telepathically? Are they corporeal? What is their planet like? And most importantly, what experience lead them to be so isolationist? They specifically refer to the aliens as “disease” coming into their home. And it’s when Kirk shows himself to be fundamentally nonviolent even in the face of his own death, they let the Enterprise through.

Basically, I always enjoy hints of alien societies that bring up more questions for me than answers. I love speculating about it.

The next two eps I’ve seen and remember well and I know they’re classics. I’m really looking forward to them!

[green-blooded]

So, I want to talk about Bread and Circuses. Or, I want to talk about Spock and McCoy in Bread and Circuses... plus the rest of the first half of the second season, because this episode isn’t actually good aside from the Spock and McCoy moments.

We start with this:

SPOCK: Fascinating. This atmosphere is remarkably similar to your twentieth century. Moderately industrialized pollution containing substantial amounts of carbon monoxide and partially consumed hydrocarbons. MCCOY: The word was smog. SPOCK: Yes, I believe that was the term. I had no idea you were that much of a historian, Doctor. MCCOY: I am not, Mister Spock. I was simply trying to stop you from giving us a whole lecture on the subject. Jim, is there anything at all we know about this planet?

(This post got long--nearly 4000 words???--so here’s a cut to save your dashboard!)

Which is kind of an odd argument for them? McCoy gets on Spock for a lot of things, but not usually for talking too much. In fact, it’s usually the reverse. In Trouble with Tribbles (the previous episode by production order), they have this exchange:

MCCOY: Spock, I don't know too much about these little tribbles yet, but there's one thing that I have discovered. SPOCK: What is that, Doctor? MCCOY: I like them better than I like you. SPOCK: Doctor? MCCOY: Yes? SPOCK: They do have one redeeming characteristic. MCCOY: What's that? SPOCK: They do not talk too much. If you'll excuse me, sir.

Far be it from me to accuse Star Trek of having continuity, but don’t these arguments seem related? In fact, both of these episodes have had particularly heated arguments between Spock and McCoy for no apparent reason in the plot. There are also a few heated exchanges in The Deadly Years (about Spock’s health, and then Kirk’s dementia).

Put a pin in this. Let’s return to Bread and Circuses.

MCCOY: Odd that these people should worship the sun. SPOCK: Why, Doctor? MCCOY: Because, my dear Mister Spock, it is illogical. Rome had no sun worshipers. Why should they parallel Rome in every way except one?

Let’s just ignore the fact that yes Rome did have sun worshipers and that there have been a hell of a lot more than one discrepancy, because if we talk about inaccuracies we’ll be here all day. The point is, they’re both postulating about this odd ‘parallel’ Earth, but McCoy’s interjection seems to annoy Spock for some reason... To the point that he brings it up again later, but in the meantime, they also have this exchange:

SPOCK: Even more fascinating. Slavery evolving into an institution with guaranteed medical payments, old-age pensions. MCCOY: Quite logical, I'd say, Mister Spock. Just as it's logical that twentieth-century Rome would use television to show its gladiator contests or name a new car the Jupiter Eight. SPOCK: Doctor, if I were able to show emotion, your new infatuation with that term would begin to annoy me. MCCOY: What term? Logic? Medical men are trained in logic, Mister Spock. SPOCK: Really, Doctor, I had no idea they were trained. Watching you, I assumed it was trial and error.

Hey guys, remember an episode called Amok Time (only 9 episodes earlier in production order instead of a whole season apart), where McCoy said this:

MCCOY: My orders were to give you a thorough physical. In case you hadn't noticed, I have to answer to the same commanding officer that you do. Come on, Spock. Yield to the logic of the situation.

And it, y'know, worked to convince Spock to listen to him that time. BUT let's also look at I, Mudd where they have one of those curiously heated arguments again:

MCCOY: All right. There's something wrong about a man who never smiles, whose conversation never varies from the routine of the job, and who won't talk about his background. SPOCK: I see. MCCOY: Spock, I mean that it's odd for a non-Vulcan. The ears make all the difference. SPOCK: I find your argument strewn with gaping defects in logic. MCCOY: Maybe, but you can't evaluate a man by logic alone. Besides, he has avoided two appointments that I've made for his physical exam without reason. SPOCK: That's not at all surprising, Doctor. He's probably terrified of your beads and rattles.

(Notice, McCoy realizes he’s offended Spock and immediately tries to fix it, but Spock remains annoyed with him.)

A couple of things here. First, like in Trouble with Tribbles (the next episode), Spock seems actually offended by McCoy. This was almost entirely absent from the first season, and not particularly prevalent in the first few episodes of the second season. There was plenty of banter and teasing before, but Spock seems more sensitive to it in this middle section of the second season. Then, again, McCoy brings up logic. McCoy argues that logic can't be the only means to evaluate a person. Then, Spock insults McCoy's medical skills. AGAIN, this is a newer development that makes it into almost every episode in the middle of the second season, including I, Mudd, Trouble with Tribbles, and Bread and Circuses. All back-to-back episodes in production order! 

So we have some things repeating in their arguments over multiple episodes. McCoy's interpretation of logic, Spock being offended by McCoy's teasing/insults, and Spock insulting McCoy's skill as a doctor. PUT A PIN IN IT. Returning to Bread and Circuses again. 

MERIK: There's been no war here for over four hundred years, Jim. Could, let's say, your land of that same era make that same boast? I think you can see why they don't want to have their stability contaminated by dangerous ideas of other ways and other places. SPOCK: Interesting, and given a conservative empire, quite understandable. MCCOY: Are you out of your head? SPOCK: I said I understood it, Doctor. I find the checks and balances of this civilization quite illuminating. MCCOY: Next he'll be telling us he prefers it over Earth history. SPOCK: They do seem to have escaped the carnage of your first three world wars, Doctor. MCCOY: They have slavery, gladiatorial games, despotism. SPOCK: Situations quite familiar to the six million who died in your first world war, the eleven million who died in your second, the thirty seven million who died in your third. Shall I go on?

I think this is one of the better exchanges that speak to the themes of this episode, which they should’ve elaborated on but instead went the Jesus Saves route... Whatever. The important thing is that this is another example of their philosophical differences AND very similar to an argument they had in The Apple a few episodes ago.

SPOCK: In my view, a splendid example of reciprocity. MCCOY: It would take a computerized Vulcan mind such as yours to make that kind of a statement. SPOCK: Doctor, you insist on applying human standards to non-human cultures. I remind you that humans are only a tiny minority in this galaxy. MCCOY: There are certain absolutes, Mister Spock, and one of them is the right of humanoids to a free and unchained environment, the right to have conditions which permit growth. SPOCK: Another is their right to choose a system which seems to work for them. MCCOY: Jim, you're not just going to stand by and be blinded to what's going on here. These are humanoids, intelligent. They need to advance and grow. Don't you understand what my readings indicate? There's been no progress here in at least ten thousand years. This isn't life. It's stagnation. SPOCK: Doctor, these people are healthy and they are happy. What ever you choose to call it, this system works, despite your emotional reaction to it. MCCOY: It might work for you, Mister Spock, but it doesn't work for me. Humanoids living so they can service a hunk of tin.

It’s super interesting to me that Spock is using relativistic contract theory to judge these cultures while McCoy is just a straight up anarchist, let’s be real. He hates hierarchical structures and authority figures, and believes that they go against human nature. Which you might say is weird for a Starfleet officer, but he also yells at people above his rank constantly and gets really upset in episodes like The Doomsday Machine when Spock refuses to ignore rank. He’s in Starfleet because he wants to help people, but I can’t imagine him staying if his captain weren’t someone he totally trusts. I mean, you could forget that McCoy has any rank at all with the way he carries himself. Meanwhile, Spock is Very, Very strict in his understanding of hierarchy and rank.

This is one of those deep divisions between the two of them. Put a pin in it. Let’s move on to the gladiator fight.

SPOCK: Need any help, Doctor? MCCOY: Whatever gave you that idea? ACHILLES: Fight, you pointed-ear freak! MCCOY: You tell him, buster. Of all the completely ridiculous, illogical questions I ever heard in my life!

The fact that McCoy is not a fighter is really brought out in this episode, and I have a lot to say about it in another post. The main thing here is McCoy bringing up logic again and agreeing with an argument that is, in my opinon, a step beyond something that McCoy would actually say. He makes fun of the ears, but freak is a little far, I think.

And all of this leads to the Big Scene in the prison, which I will break into parts. Part #1:

MCCOY: Angry, Mister Spock, or frustrated, perhaps? SPOCK: Such emotions are foreign to me, Doctor. I'm merely testing the strength of the door. MCCOY: For the fifteenth time...

McCoy is lightly teasing Spock for being more emotional than he lets on, while Spock denies having any emotion at all... this is a pretty typical part of the exchange. What really makes it work is Deforest Kelly's delivery. He says these lines with a degree of affection. He's not yelling, and he's not even using the tone he usually has when teasing Spock. In this moment, you can see that McCoy points out Spock's incongruous moments of emotion because he likes that about him. While it sometimes comes across as a 'gotcha' moment (like at the end of The Galileo Seven), the sheer number of times McCoy mentions Spock's emotions shows more than just a passing amount of interest in them.

Then, McCoy continues:

MCCOY: Spock, I know we've had our disagreements. Maybe they're jokes. I don't know. As Jim says, we're not often sure ourselves sometimes, but what I'm trying to say is-- SPOCK: Doctor, I am seeking a means of escape. Will you please be brief? MCCOY: Well, what I'm trying to say is you saved my life in the arena. SPOCK: Yes, that's quite true. MCCOY: I'm trying to thank you, you pointed-eared hobgoblin!

Before I talk about this, I need to take a moment. I think that McCoy often gets painted at someone with his heart on his sleeve, who feels a lot and expresses all of his feelings. And it's just not true! He's very expressive when it comes to some things, sure. He can yell all day about how much he cares about people in general, but when it comes to expressing how much he cares about an individual? It's pretty damn rare. Look at his words AND his body language in Balance of Terror when he has a vulnerable moment with Kirk.

KIRK: I look around that Bridge, and I see the men waiting for me to make the next move. And Bones, what if I'm wrong? MCCOY: Captain, I-- KIRK: No, I don't really expect an answer. MCCOY: But I've got one. Something I seldom say to a customer, Jim. In this galaxy, there's a mathematical probability of three million Earth-type planets. And in all of the universe, three million million galaxies like this. And in all of that, and perhaps more, only one of each of us. Don't destroy the one named Kirk.

McCoy himself says here that he doesn't usually say this kind of thing, and if you look at the series, that bears out. He does NOT find it easy to tell people he cares about them, and when he does, he does it in this abstract way, barely able to make any eye contact. This is AGAIN why the conflict between Spock and McCoy is NOT logic vs. emotion. McCoy is not fully emotional, and he doesn't find emotion easy to express. I would argue that he has almost as much difficulty expressing his feelings for another person as Spock does. I would also argue that McCoy does not LIKE this about himself, and that is part of why it frustrates him so much when he sees it in Spock. 

 So, when he tries to be vulnerable and thank Spock, first of all, he doesn't just say "Hey, thanks for saving me in the arena." He starts with a lot of waffle, and when Spock interrupts him and insists that he keep it short (again, callback to the arguments in this episode and Trouble with Tribbles about which one of them talks too much), McCoy tries to simply thank him, but gets upset when Spock is still impassive and reverts to his usual way of talking to Spock. One remark from Spock, and McCoy loses his ability to be vulnerable and resorts to a sharp tone and insults. Leading into part three of this conversation: 

SPOCK: Oh, yes. You humans have that emotional need to express gratitude. You're welcome, I believe, is the correct response. However, Doctor, you must remember I am entirely motivated by logic. The loss of our ship's surgeon, whatever I think of his skill, would mean a reduction in the efficiency of the Enterprise and therefore-- MCCOY: Do you know why you're not afraid to die, Spock? You're more afraid of living. Each day you stay alive is just one more day you might slip and let your human half peek out. That's it, isn't it? Insecurity. Why, you wouldn't know what to do with a genuine, warm, decent feeling. SPOCK: Really, Doctor? MCCOY: I know. I'm worried about Jim, too.

The last bit is powerful, and I think generally something people remember more than the rest of the conversation, but I really need to focus on that first exchange first, because there is a LOT going on, and I've been pinning things through this whole overly long post for this moment.

PIN 1: Their arguments have become more heated in the middle portion of season 2.

This is a very clear example of that. McCoy doesn't drop the issue after the insult and Spock insists he wouldn't have saved McCoy if he weren't logically useful to the ship. Ouch.

PIN 2: The repetition in these heated arguments. McCoy's view of logic, Spock getting offended, Spock insulting McCoy's skill as a doctor.

What Spock says here brings up all three of those issues. Spock has been frustrated by McCoy bringing up logic throughout this episode, and now he's shooting back at him with a logical view of why he saved McCoy's life--while still maintaining that he doesn't think McCoy is a good doctor. McCoy's been using logic against him, and now Spock is returning the favor. Spock understands Human interaction better than this! Something as simple as a "thank you" and "your welcome" is everyday for him, not only on the Enterprise but with one of the people who RAISED him. He is exaggerating his own non-Human qualities throughout this conversation to a truly absurd extent, because McCoy has repeatedly offended him for several episodes. However, McCoy seems unaware that his usual teasing has actually gotten under Spock's skin, because he has been surprised, again and again (especially in I, Mudd where he chases after Spock to apologize to him) when Spock actually acts hurt by him.

And then there's McCoy's response.

It's not "damn your Vulcan logic" or ending the conversation. He grabs Spock and forces him to look at him--which Spock has been avoiding throughout the conversation--and tells Spock that he's so afraid to be human that he doesn't fear death, because that would put an end to the fear that his Human side would show.

IF WE ARE ONLY LOOKING AT THIS ONE EPISODE, this doesn't make sense. This didn't build from the conversations in Bread and Circuses, which is why I keep bringing up several different episodes and why I'm insisting on production order.

PIN 3: These two have deep, deep philosophical differences that they are constantly discussing.

As I said in another post, Spock and McCoy have a different standard for morality which causes the two of them to butt heads a whole lot. In the first season, it was pretty much the same argument over and over again (should we risk a larger number of people to save a smaller number of people), but it's been evolving in this season to the discussion of freedom and cultural differences and more.

If these two men did not have any respect for one another, I don't think these arguments would continue. Yes, they work together, but they don't actually need to interact as much as they do, and they are VERY often seeing walking into a scene on the bridge together or walking down a corridor together, etc. It's not just missions. They choose to spend time together.

So, when Spock says he only saved McCoy because he's useful as the ship's surgeon, McCoy doesn't respond to THAT, because 1) he knows he's a good doctor and never seems fazed by Spock insulting him about that and 2) he knows Spock is not being honest with him here.

This is one of the reasons why I think McCoy gets frustrated with Spock because they have a similar difficulty showing how much they care about other people, and they have an especially difficult time showing affection toward one another.

While the ending of Operation: Annihilate! where McCoy tells Kirk not to tell Spock he called him the best first officer in the fleet is memorable, it's hardly the most vulnerable moment for McCoy in that episode. No, it's when he thinks he's blinded Spock because he didn't consider using the non-visible parts of the light spectrum to kill the parasitic aliens. McCoy can't even say for himself the deep guilt he's feeling about harming Spock--he never says that he's blaming himself. It's Kirk who tells him he's not at fault, and McCoy can't even bring himself to respond. If you look at those last lines about Spock being the best first officer in the fleet in context of how devastated McCoy was when he thought he'd blinded Spock permanently, it definitely hits different, right?

And then there are the times in the first season when Spock believes McCoy is badly hurt or dead. In Miri, Shore Leave, and City on the Edge of Forever, Spock has a strong reaction to seeing McCoy injured, but he does not verbalize this obvious emotional reaction at any time.

They don't know how to say that they care about each other, because that's something they both struggle with in general. They also both struggle with being emotionally vulnerable and allowing other people to know them on a deeper level. Spock uses his Vulcan otherness to keep people at a distance, while McCoy uses a the charm offensive of his "bedside manner" as his defense system.

So, McCoy says this thing about Spock not being afraid to die because he's so terrified of his Human side coming out IN DIRECT RESPONSE to Spock being unable to even look at him when McCoy is not only trying to thank him for saving his life but ALSO putting it into the context of how difficult their friendship is and how rarely they show any straight-forward affection for each other. And the most telling thing is, McCoy didn't seem to know for sure that he was right until he sees Spock’s reaction. Look at his expression when Spock turns away from him.

And look at his intensity when he says that Spock wouldn't know what to do with a "genuine warm, decent feeling."

When Spock turns to him and says "Really, Doctor?"

THAT is when McCoy is the one who breaks eye contact and changes the subject to someone that they both feel affection for, but who isn't in the room to hear it. I understand that there are other readings of this moment, and that's fine, but... I don't think this has to do with Kirk specifically. For one thing, it never comes up in the episode when they are reunited with Kirk, and for another Kirk is in the least danger out of the three of them. Instead, this moment is about how both of them struggle so deeply with showing affection when someone's right there in front of them.

By the end of the episode, we can see the two of them spending time together again, apparently by choice, and seeming very comfortable with each other... and the next episode is Journey to Babel, in which they are very friendly again with The Immunity Syndrome only four episodes after that, and the episodes in between showing them with much less contentious banter again.

Dare I say it, but I think this is a legitimate arc! And it's a shame that most people see the episodes in broadcast order, because it makes their relationship much more incoherent and makes this little escalation of frustration with each other more random and may make it seem like they genuinely dislike each other.

Anyway... this was. Not supposed to be such a long post, but I have a lot of Thoughts and Feelings about these two, and I can't help myself sometimes.

[green-blooded-computer]

Reuniting prompt: “I don’t think they even remember me.”

This one isn’t really them reuniting. Am I breaking the rules here? Spock and McCoy head to Vulcan to visit Sarek and Amanda...and tell them they got married during the five-year mission.

---

 “I don’t think they even remember me.”

It had been two months since the five year mission had ended. Most of the Enterprise crew had gone back to their respective homes. They were reunited with family they hadn’t seen in years, matters they hadn’t been able to tend to in space, and friends whose company they had missed. They’d promised they would see one another again, sometime soon, after things had calmed down. 

For many of them, their lives simply picked up where they’d left off. Some were offered positions on other ships. Some began teaching at the Academy. Most of them arrived on Earth with little more than their Starfleet uniforms, badges of honour, and a few trinkets picked up along the way. Leonard, however, brought back much more with him. 

Spock had agreed that moving to Georgia with Leonard was ideal. Nothing was truly waiting for him on Vulcan. Not after he had passed up his invitation to the Vulcan Science Academy all those years ago. He was - as T’Pring had so aptly put it - somewhat of a legend among their people now. The half-human who preferred to join the military instead of study. Spock did not want that life, and Leonard was more than happy to take him home. 

Until it was suggested that they go back to Vulcan anyway. For a visit. Just for a little while. 

Leo had only ever been to Vulcan on one occasion - for Spock’s koon-ut-kal-if-fee, which was something he preferred not to think about for obvious reasons. At the time he’d been introduced to the saddest cast of characters he’d ever had the displeasure of meeting. Spock’s wife. Her boyfriend. T’Pau. Many men wearing helmets. Leonard honestly would have preferred not to go back, but Spock had a convincing argument.

Their wedding - their human marriage ceremony - had been aboard the Enterprise, Jim Kirk presiding as was customary on a starship. It hadn’t been open to the public, but some members of the senior staff were present and there was a small reception. It was quaint, and done entirely for Leonard’s satisfaction. After all, the Vulcan ritual was much more intimate and occurred behind closed doors. The joining of two minds was not something you did in public. 

Leonard had no family to share the news with. He’d written to Joanna. She seemed happy for the two of them, but their relationship was far removed and existed only over subspace messages. Her relationship to Spock was non-existent. Other than that, there was no one to tell...except Spock’s parents. 

Leonard had only met Spock’s parents on one occasion. It was during a diplomatic mission to Babel when Ambassador Sarek was a guest aboard the Enterprise. He hadn’t warmed up to the ambassador - not that he was surprised - but Spock’s mother was a lovely woman whose company Leonard had enjoyed very much. Fast forward a few hours and he’d had to perform surgery on Spock and his father at the same time during a crisis. There hadn’t been any time to talk to them about the marriage, but something in Leo’s head kept nagging him. He thought it was important they should know. 

“I disagree. I recall my mother being quite taken with you. I believe she called you a ‘charmer’.” Spock was always good at calming his nerves. There was something so logical about the way he argued. Even if he was lying, he made it sound like he was just presenting a set of facts. 

Leonard frowned. “Well,” he admitted begrudgingly. “I did enjoy talking to her.” It wasn’t Sarek and Amanda’s company that was worrying him. It wasn’t even the trip to Vulcan, which would take a few days’ travel. It was the feeling of isolation. Once they set foot on Vulcan, Leonard would be the only human in the vicinity, not counting Mrs. Sarek herself. Amanda at least had the advantage of being intimately familiar with Vulcan culture and living on the planet for a large portion of her life. She was no longer an outsider. Not only was Leonard a complete stranger, but he was also their son’s husband - a move that presented as totally illogical in the eyes of many Vulcans. 

Spock had been paying attention to his train of thought, it seemed because he frowned at this. “Clarify.”

“Vulcans only marry and mate for procreation,” the doctor reasoned. “We can’t procreate, so what is the point of our marriage? It’s not logical.”

Spock’s frown deepened. “‘What is the point of our marriage?’” he echoed.

“Oh, Spock, c’mon. You know that’s not my opinion, I just mean that’s what the Vulcan public will think. That’s what your parents will think. You aren’t carrying on the S'chn T'gai line. It ends with..ah...it ends with me, I suppose.”

Spock was, of course, not quick to anger, and he considered these statements at the face value without personal offense. “You are assuming, I think, that Vulcan marriages are only initiated when the circumstances are logical.”

“Well, yes.”

“When, in fact, you witness T’Pring end our koon-ut-so'lik due to her preference for Stonn.”

“That’s different, Spock.”

“How so?”

“Well...they can still have children.”

“It would have been far more logical for T’Pring to carry through with her betrothal to me. It would have caused a lot less inconvenience. She willingly sacrificed the life of another so she could marry Stonn, effectively trading either my life or the life of the Captain for her own selfish wishes.” 

“If I didn’t know you better, I’d say you were disappointed in her.”

Spock sighed and shifted to face the doctor more directly. “All I am saying, Leonard, is that what is ‘logical’ is not always the same for every person. It is logical to spend the rest of your life with someone whose company you enjoy, wouldn’t you agree?”

“Hey, you don’t have to tell me, Mister. I’m perfectly happy with our arrangement.” He smiled and held his hand out which Spock held gently between his own. He watched as his husband traced patterns in the back of his knuckles. 

“My father believed something similar when he elected to marry my mother. He thought the situation was ‘illogical’ and that he was foolish for pursuing such a relationship.” Spock’s words seemed steeped in sadness, but it didn’t show on his features. “My mother felt alienated. She worried she would not be welcome on Vulcan.”

“What happened?”

“Nothing.” Spock settled his gaze on Leonard’s eyes. “Nothing happened. My parents, as other families, lived their lives in private. They were happy. They lived average lives.” He paused for a moment before adding, “It would be logical to assume the others were just as concerned with their own worries.” 

“So you’re saying Vulcan couples have their own issues to deal with.”

“Affirmative.”

“I get what you’re saying here, Darlin’, but these are your parents. They want what’s best for you-”

“I know what’s best for me. They have the utmost confidence in my sense of judgment. And if they disagree with my decision to marry you-” He raised one eyebrow. “I do not care. It is none of their concern.” 

Leonard’s face broke into a smile at this comment. “Aw...you damn romantic.”

“The notion of ‘getting a blessing’ from your significant other’s parents is a human one, Leonard. Vulcan’s do not involve their parents in their mating habits.”

“Well, when you say it like that, it sounds weird.” 

Spock squeezed the doctor’s hand ever so slightly, and they both felt a surge of reassurance through their bond. “Everything will be fine.”

[bearsinpotatosacks]

Pride Prompts 2020 Day 3- Caught Looking Their Way

Jim was finally halfway through his shift and it was one of the few shifts that was completely uneventful. No rogue ships, no strange organisations or unknown planets. Just sparkling, never ending space.

He didn't want to seem reckless, like he enjoyed being on the verge of death or constantly in battles. Everyone was enjoying the down time. Yet no one could deny the immense boredom that was coming from travelling between galaxies. 

A few days ago, there had been a mild rendezvous at a small Class-M planet that the Federation wanted to sign a treaty with after years of disagreements. No one had been killed, a few injured when both were fatigued with the petty arguments, but no fatalities.

The first few days of no action served everyone well, it was almost like shore leave explained McCoy. Nonetheless, after three days of nothing but empty space and the same routine, Jim was running out of distractions. 

He'd done his rounds walking around the ship, checking in on every sector and how they were doing. Every now and then he contacted a part of the ship, engineering, weapons, but they had just as little to do as those on the bridge. 

This was how he found his mind completely empty and his eyes naturally resting upon the fascinating image that was his first officer- Mr. Spock. 

He, unlike the rest of the crew, had found some way of occupying himself. Chekov wanted to research something about Russia, obviously, and Spock had been strangely eager to do the work for him. His logic was that Chekov should focus on navigation rather than a non-essential project.

Spock appeared content and busy, lost in the world of history and research. This was the exact reason why Jim had taken to leaning on his right arm and gazing blankly at him. He didn't care if anyone caught him staring or possibly smiling gloofily at the half-Vulcan while his mind cleared and the boredom dissipated.

The Captain hadn't noticed that Uhura was laughing behind her hand and that Sulu had been elbowing Chekov for him to witness this blatant display of affection. 

Jim was immersed in thought about Spock. His eloquence was currently on his mind, the way he formed his words so calmly while directing orders or stating the illogical. Another aspect of him was how comedic he could be without intending it, there had been many a time when his gratitude for Bones' insults had made him chuckle. 

He sighed, shifted slightly as he was reminded of the bravery of his Science Officer. Despite other crew members' insistence, he had shown countless times his willingness to stand up to the wrong and to carry on fighting even if everything appeared bleak. 

Jim was enamoured, there was a spell cast upon him that would not go away for a while. He wouldn't argue that he was more than partial to the man, the mere sight of Spock could lighten his day and he admitted to feeling fearful for him on missions when he got into any danger. It came with the job but the irrationality that came with love didn't care if he was employed by danger. If his heart could have its way, Spock wouldn't ever be in a life or death situation ever again. 

~~

"Mr Chekov, I have found some interesting information in my research that you may want to hear," Spock said. As he turned around, he quickly realised how every crew member around him was watching him and Jim intensely.

He didn't really know why, perhaps it was the boredom that had possessed the crew without anything life threatening to do. His logic saw through their complaints however, there was rarely a moment when there was nothing to be done. And today was not an exception to that rule.

"Mr. Chekov, do you want to hear the information?" Spock repeated closer to the man in question, who stopped his laughter and agreed to hear what he had to say. "Well, did you happen to know that one of your descendants invested in a company that would discover a more efficient fuel for Earth Spacecrafts?"

"No, I didn't know that,"

"Well, you can add that to the official doings of the Russians that you inform us all about at every moment," He said, moving to sit back down before he laid eyes on why the crew had been watching so crudely at him and the Captain.

Jim was leaning on one arm in his chair, eyes glistening and partially glazed over in a daydream like haze. His ridiculous smile plastered on his face, that, if Spock ever admitted his emotions, did make him happier on certain occasions- not that he would ever acknowledge that his human side sometimes overruled his logic.

The Captain had not seemed to notice anything he had said, or anything around him at all for that matter. His cheeks were flushed faintly as he persistently looked at him. Jim's interest did spark something in him, a kind of gratitude that he was being recognised, although he couldn't say what he had done that was so interesting. 

Spock raised an eyebrow and stepped forward, towards the Captain's chair and the lovesick man occupying it. He vaguely waved in front of him, trying, and failing, to get his attention. If he was mindlessly staring at him then he should confront him about it. 

He had been told, by his mother and some other infatuated crew members that stealing glances at someone was often a symptom of love. Perhaps it was the longing and the passion for that person that made them infinitely provocative. 

Spock had felt this need. There had been many a moment, no matter how embarrassing for him to confess to himself, when he lay wondering about the Captain, if he was as lonely as he was, whether he wanted him, no, needed him as much as he did. It made him feel ashamed.

What would Sarek think, to see him acting so foolishly when it came to his feelings. Spock was a Vulcan, and Vulcans are logical, not emotional.

But he was also Human too.

"Captain," Spock said, abandoning his efforts at waving. "Captain, you are staring,"

No answer, just the same love struck look.

"Captain," He sighed. "Jim!"

Jim snapped out of his trance at the call of his name, blinking a few times before he too realised the amount of eyes that were finding him so humorous. He sat up and dropped his arm onto his lap, looking back at Spock again.

"Yes, Mr. Spock,"

"Captain, may I have a word with you," He moved closer and lowered his volume. "In private, off the bridge,"

For the first time for the entirety of their shift, their eyes met. They agreed without words, Jim putting Sulu in temporary charge until he returned and left to wander the corridors.

~~

Most of the corridors were empty, with crewmembers being at their post and little need for extra hands, the two were safe to talk.

"I thought it would be better to confront you about your staring in private, Captain," Spock began, unconsciously leading them to a deserted conference room.

Jim hummed and pulled a chair for himself and his First Officer, "Yes, I hope you aren't offended, I wasn't doing it with malicious intent," 

Spock gave him a ghost of a smile that eased his worries, "Oh, I'm sure of that, Captain," He said, placing his hands on the table, close to Jim's. "Infact, I hypothesise that you were staring out of desire or passion, rather than anger or prejudice,"

Jim grinned. If Spock was admitting that his observations were because of his developing crush, then that meant his feelings were logical, and he only acted on what was logical. 

"Well, you would be correct," Their eyes met again, and if he was not mistaken, a glimmer of something shone in the other man's eyes. "But how did you come to that conclusion, when desire and passion are two very strong emotions?"

Spock turned his head and moved his hands closer a touch. He hesitated for a moment, clearly thinking of what to do or to say that would maintain his mask. 

As much as Jim liked to tease him about his lack of emotions, he knew they were there and were more prevalent than his culture would like them to be. He also knew of how this plagued him, to have such a human flaw that was so hard to deal with.

"It would be illogical for me to pretend that I had no experience in this way of thinking," This shocked Jim, was Spock actually admitting that he occasionally thought with emotion? "Despite how much I long for me to say that I have heard that staring is a symptom for desiring someone, I too have found myself analysing you, watching you and absorbing everything about you with little resistance,"

"Are you saying that-"

"Yes, I am admitting that I am feeling things for you, Jim. Deep, raw and human things for you, that have made me feel guilt to no end over how it betrays my blood," Spock took a long shuddering breath and made another leap, his hands reached out and interlocked with Jim's. 

Jim tightened his grip on his hands, inching closer to him before whispering, "You are not betraying anyone, Spock, you're just being true to who you are. You can love a person while still upholding logic, you have emotions but they don't need to rule you just because you acknowledge they're there,"

He leant his head forwards until his forehead bumped with Spock's. This close up, he could see the multitude of colours that made up his irises, could see the green tint of his skin and lines on his face smooth out. He was letting himself relax and enjoy what he had, finally.

They sat there for a while, hands gripped tightly, as they would not be anywhere important for a while. For now, they could enjoy each other's company. Spock could let himself relish in his devotion and Jim would not be humorously shocked due to finding out how intimate hand holding is for Vulcans- something he would damn McCoy for not telling him about later. 

So for now, they would sit in the infinite stars of space and wait until the next crisis approached them. Because they had each other now, and that meant everything in the world.