Diplomacy

The Enterprise was on its way to Earth. There they will collect the President of the Federation, and Starfleet personnel. Meanwhile, the Quartermasters have been preparing executive suites and verifying food preferences. Kirk has given DeSalle the position of acting First Officer while Spock is out, and assigned yeomen to each dignitary that will be coming aboard.

The Captain hated this part of the job, catering to the big wigs, but the one person he worried about the most was Admiral Chester Nimitz. The man was dry, emotionless, and lethal. But Kirk couldn't hold that against the man, he knew how to run a fleet of starships, and Nimitz managed them like they were the old Fort Knox. Nothing got by that man. Kirk made sure his quarters were pristine.

He had the crew practice each guest's name and position within Starfleet, notifying the crew they were to stop what they were doing and answer the beck and call of the visiting dignitaries and officers. Then he had the galley Chef prepare nightly dinners; making sure Dr. McCoy, Mr. Scott, and Desalle were invited against their wishes. Kirk was not suffering alone.

36 hours out from Earth the crew was getting ready to finish their last act of duty. Three women were having breakfast and getting ready for duty. It seemed like old times:

"I can't believe it! Admiral Nimitz, coming aboard our ship!" Rhonda said excitedly while sipping her coffee.

Eve looked up at Rhonda and smiled, "It's amazing that the Admiral is going to Nyota's reception. What an honor."

Rhonda looked at Eve and wondered if they were going to Uhura's shin-dig since they were close to her.

"Are you two going to the reception? After all, you two are her besties."

Charlene finished her oatmeal and dropped the spoon in her bowl.

"As much as we want to Rhonda, it all depends on if the Captain releases us. We are still assigned to the ship until further notice."

Rhonda was still recovering from the fact that Uhura had stood in front of her, secretly married, and she hadn't known. 'What's worse,' she thought, 'is that everyone is putting them on a pedestal. Treating them like they were royalty or something.'

"May I join you?"

A soft voice caught their attention and they looked up to see Nurse Chapel. The three women shared a shocked look, but were still respectful.

Eve moved over to make room. "Good morning Chapel."

"Good morning everyone." Christine sat down with her tray and slowly started eating.

"Where have you been?" asked Rhonda. "I haven't seen you for over a month."

"I've been doing some deep thinking and reflecting," Christine said somberly.

Charlene looked at Christine carefully and noticed that had she lost weight and possessed a softer demeanor. Charlene reached over and touched her hand.

"It's good to see you old friend."

Christine looked up at Charlene and smiled, "It's good to see an old friend too."

An awkward silence fell on them and Christine paused, wanting to address the elephant at the table.

"First, I want to apologize for my behavior concerning Mr. Spock. It seems I was..possessive on the topic and I am embarrassed by the fact. It seems that the little club got out of hand and Nyota had to confront them. It hurt other people and that was not my intention, so I ask forgiveness if I was standoffish or disrespectful to you in any way."

Rhonda leaned back in shock at her confession, she was speechless. While the other two women gave Christine a warm smile and reached over the table to hold her hands.

"Wow Christine that was deep, and yes we accept your apology," said Eve.

"I didn't know that my behavior was affecting the people around me. I was blinded-sided."

Charlene slowly glanced at Rhonda, "You weren't the only one, there are some still dealing with Mr. Spock and Nyota's marriage."

Rhonda replied, "Yeah, I am. Because, what was the big secret? Huh? I know what she did to Janet and Abby."

Charlene sat back and looked at Rhonda with contempt.

"First of all, if you knew anything about Vulcanians, or Mr. Spock, you would know that he is a solitary man. He doesn't mingle as others do. Plus, it was his wish to keep the relationship a secret because they're both senior officers. The captain gave consent for them to date, get engaged, and marry!"

Rhonda said smartly, "Okay, okay, I get it. Now stop snapping at me!"

"But you've been sticking it to Nyota since they came out!" added Eve.

"Well some things take time to get over. I am going on duty now, SO Excuse me!" Rhonda got with her tray and left.

Charlene looked at Christine, "I've been dying to tell her off, but I meant to do it in a nice way."

"I get it, and thanks Char - I know you tried to tell me non-directly about the relationship. I was hurt when it came out. I had misplaced feelings and I took it out on the wrong people." Christine's eyes filled with unspilled tears. "Not now - keep it together girl."

"I'm sorry about that too, I swore not to discuss or reveal it to anyone other than the people Nyota chose."

The three of them sat quietly until Christine finished her breakfast and they started to leave together.

Charlene was relieved that Christine was seeing things differently and noticed her somber behavior. They stood in the corridor while other crew members were passing by them, Christine looking at Charlene and Eve, wanted them to know that she was grateful. Eve met her eyes and broke the silence, "Maybe we can to do a ladies' night or something."

"Now that's a great idea, our missions have been low key lately," added Charlene

"Okay, I would like that- I just want you both to know that I will talk to Nyota and make amends. The New Jersey mission was an eye-opener, she saved the lives of the colonist and me. I realized how important my relationship with Nyota was, and I also saw how she and Spock-just meshed."

Christine sighed deeply, that took a lot to admit. She saw the blank face of Eve and the teary look of Charlene. Charlene grabbed and hugged Christine, fighting back the tears.

"Nyota would like that because she misses you and us hanging out."

Eve tugged on Charlene's sleeve, "Ladies, we're going to be late for duty and the captain has been edgy because of the diplomats."

Both women turned and waved bye to Christine as they jogged down the corridor to catch the next turbo.

Christine stood quietly as the busy crew walked around her, she reflected on the conversation with Eve and Charlene. Things are starting to work out, now her biggest hurdle will be to facing Spock and Nyota.

Christine headed to sickbay to start her short re-entry back to work; she has to prove to McCoy that is capable of returning to full duty. It will keep her from idling on her loss and allow her focus on her shore leave on Earth. Latoya asked her to jot down activities to do while she was on leave, besides visiting family and friends. Things she has always wanted to experience.

Sometime after her duty in sickbay, Christine met for the last time with Dr. Robinson.

"Christine, you look lovely in that outfit. Is there a special occasion?"

"No, I felt like dressing up a little, and thank you for the compliment."

"I've noticed the change in your face and body. You look like you've gained some of your weight back, and your demeanor has markedly improved."

"Thank you."

"This is our last session before your shore leave, did you get a chance to find things to do on Earth?"

"Yes, I did!" Christine handed Latoya her padd of information and she quickly glanced at her choices.

"These are quite good. Have you been skiing before?"

"No, but I am willing to learn something new."

"Good. This new experience will be another step in the right direction, and don't forget to keep those therapeutic swimming sessions."

"Yes, I do find it relaxing and it helps with my frustration, LaToya. I have a report to give. I talked with Charlene and asked her to forgive my behavior during the whole event over Spock and Nyota. She and Eve felt relieved and comfortable that we're planning a time to get together."

"Christine, that is great news and progress!"

"Yes, I did add the experience from the New Jersey mission was impactful."

"This time away will also solidify your progress. Just take one day at a time and accept new things as they come."LaToya gave her a somber look.

"I will LaToya."

"Do you have anything else you need to share?"

"No, not really."

"Just remember, I am available for you any time and I will make a report to McCoy and the captain on your progress."

"Thank you again for helping me face my feelings about Spock."

"You did most of the work."

Christine stood up and hugged her. "Thank you, LaToya."

"You are welcome to have a good night."

Christine left her session with a better attitude and outlook on the future. As she left, LaToya reflected on how much progress Christine had made. But Uhura will be her biggest challenge in her recovery. She really thought at the beginning of their sessions that Uhura had stolen Mr. Spock from her. But the realization that she was in love with both men at the same time made the difference.

"I hope these sessions benefitted her."

As she continued to write her report for the captain and McCoy, she thought about Lennie's interest in Christine. The conflict of feelings within the ship was high when the crew wasn't on a high-risk mission. The New Jersey colony was a good distraction and had put everyone's focus back on their duty. Now everything was focused on the wedding reception, which is a big to-do throughout the quadrant.

LaToya huffed. "I need a shore leave."

Spock and Nytoa were still the hottest news in the Sol System as the Enterprise docked on the space station above the planet. The crew was ecstatic about reaching Earth and Christine continued to get ready to disembark on her next mission of recovery. Kirk gave her an extension on her leave, not knowing how long the Enterprise will be stationed at Vulcan after Spock's reception.

The nurses had given her a dinner party the night before and they had re-established their working relationships as well as their friendships. Christine had apologized again for her behavior, and if she had made them feel intimidated. After the dinner, she reflected on how her relationship with Spock had affected the people she worked with and was hit with a sense of sadness. Her obsession had caused so much strife.

As she reminisced, two male yeomen carried Christine's duffle bags to the transporter room. She is taking the turbo to the transporter, on her way towards recovery, and a new adventure. The yeomen entered the room and placed her things on the padd as Christine thanked them, she turned to see Mr. Scott and Dr. McCoy standing at the controls.

"OH, doctor, I didn't see you! Hi Scotty."

"Aye, we are your goodbye committee," Scotty said chuckling.

McCoy came from around the console and approached Christine. "I just wanted to make sure you had a good sendoff. Your team will miss you."

"Not you Lennie?"

"I hope you will miss my charming, southern, charismatic ways."

"Who else are you going to yell at when Captain Kirk lays on the biobed?"

"I'll have to continue training Nurse Running Deer, that's all."

"Lennie, are you here because you are going to miss me?"

"I'm a doctor, not a greeting card message!"

They both laugh at his statement, but Leonard wasn't ready to say goodbye. He touched her elbow and escorted her to the transporter pad. Leonard had something heavy on his mind, something that he'd been waiting to say for some time. This moment was his last chance to explain his boorish behavior.

"Well, Lennie, thank you for believing in me and recommending LaToya. I got a better sense of myself."

"That's what friends do, we try to help out the best we can."

Leonard had prepared a speech, something to let her know of his intentions. This was his last chance, a make or break an opportunity. He cleared his throat and licked his lips as he tried to say what he should have said months ago. No, years ago.

Christine had positioned herself on the pad, looking at McCoy, and smiling. Then, Lennie said something that had her in shock, her face was blank and her mind couldn't process it fast enough. She froze and stared at the man. Her mind picked up a few words:

'finish'

'Spock'

'Dinner'

' you'

"What -did you- say, Lennie?" Christine was stumbling over her words, she wanted to make sure she had heard him clearly.

Meanwhile, Scotty observed the whole interaction and was surprised by McCoy's declaration. So much so, that he just stared at the both of them and acted like he wasn't there. Which was fine, he looked at McCoy make his move on the nurse.

"I said, when you finish pining over Spock, I-would-like-to have-dinner-with-you!" Pointing his finger between himself and Christine.

McCoy looked at the shocked look on her face when it finally registered that she understood. Her response came back garbled.

"Uhm sure, I mean yes. Yes, I would like that."

Christine stood like a schoolgirl getting her first date, licking her lips. Her mind was still processing what had just happened, she just stared into Lennie's deep blue eyes and saw something. He liked her, he liked her and that made her heart jump.

"Are you okay?"

"Yes..yes, Lennie I was just surprised...I never knew or thought," she whispered, getting caught up in her words.

"Yeah, your focus was elsewhere. But now you go get better and take care of yourself." Lennie stepped back and once again stood next to Scotty.

"Bye Miss Chapel." Leonard said as Scotty moved the controls and they both watched her dematerialize.

Scotty gave McCoy a curious look. "I see you have taken a liking to Nurse Chapel there?"

Leonard gave a deep huff and hoped that Scotty could keep a secret. "Yeah, it was hard competing against a friend. He was all she could see."

"Aye, I had the same problem with a lass. It was hard to not be noticed."

"I had to let her know where I stood. I'm tired of being the second banana in the dating department and today I decided to take a chance."

"Imagine competing with the captain! He's such a ladies' man, everywhere he goes the lassies fall for him."

"Both of them. Do you know how it feels to be in the shadow of friends who always gets the girl?"

"Aye, I do doctor!"

"Even Spock, the quiet type, gets the girls."

"Aye, with 's personal club in all."

McCoy finally looked at Scotty, " Do you have a girly club?"

"Na, the only girls I have are those engines, and I always talk to them."

"Well, neither do I. I have bottles of liquor with names on them."

"Aye, my bottle is vintage Scotch."

They stood for a few seconds and McCoy overcame his melancholy mood.

"Please, don't tell anybody this."

"No problem McCoy, your secret is safe with me."

"I know it's early, do you want coffee or a stiff whiskey?"

"If it's Scotch, then I'm game!"

"Scotch it is."

Both men clasped each other's backs and left laughing.

Later on, two Starfleet officers are standing at a receptionist's desk requesting to see Everett Taylor.

"Excuse me Mr. Taylor, but I have two Starfleet officers requesting to speak to you!"

"Two officers?"

"Yes, one says you were expecting her when she came back to Earth!"

Everett stood up with his mouth open.

"Show them to the conference room and give them anything they want and notify Michelle that they're here."

"Yes, right away!"

Everett clapped his hands and practically ran out of his office to the conference room. As he was walking, he intercepted Michelle going in the same direction with a big smile on her face. They entered the conference room together and saw two female officers, recognizing both. Everett walked straight towards Eve and gave her a big hug.

"Girl, you made it!"

Then he looked at Masters, "You're the Maid of Honor!"

"And bestie to the bride!" Charlene said smartly with a winning smile.

"You're too sassy for me! Come and sit. Let's talk!"

The four of them sat at the conference table where Michelle introduced herself.

"Just in case Everett forgot I was here, I'm Michelle Combs. I'm glad you were able to come!"

"Yeah, but I'm time-restricted, we can't stay long," said Eve.

"She's right, we were barely able to get a shore leave pass," said Charlene.

Everett was excited and jumped in, "Let's get to work." He snapped his fingers, summoning a group of people with padds to the table.

Eve pulled out her padd and typed in some codes, projecting her name on their large monitor before revealing Nyota's gown. It showed more details up close and the headdress's intricate beadwork. Everett sat down in awe with his mouth open.

After 2 hours of negotiations and planning, Charlene took note of the time and gently touched Eve's arm.

"Eve we have to go or we'll miss the ship!"

Michelle stood up with a big smile on her face, "I hope this works. You think you'll be able to get Vulcan involved?"

Eve and Charlene stood up. "We'll have to contact you because of Vulcan's policies and requests. I'll confirm it with Nyota. She's the chief of communication."

"It doesn't matter, it's better than nothing. We've heard Vulcan isn't broadcasting because of what happened to Professor Uhura."

Charlene and Eve were shocked. "Wow!"

Everett added, "Yeah, the wedding reception of the universe, this close to Earth."

Michelle escorted both women out.

"Thanks again for your time ladies, and see you soon with more designs."

As Charlene and Eve were heading back to Starfleet Eve stopped, looked at Char and started screaming, "I got a contour shop!"

They both laughed and continued on to Starfleet.

At Starfleet Command, Chester was preparing his luggage for departure to the Enterprise for Altair VI. As Altair VI was primarily a diplomatic base, with accomodations suitable for multiple species, his personal assistant had made living arrangements for the duration. He commended the Vulcans choice of location, since many of the guests are either established Federation members or new ones. Chester owes those new members to the exploration and efforts of Kirk and his crew. Commodore Rahja gave the admiral updates on any security threats, so far there had been none. Measures had been taken. Central Intelligence and Vulcan Central were coordinating efforts for the safety of the reception, since multiple dignitaries had been invited. Once that was taken care of, he was able to reflect on the one person that had occupied his mind since her departure. 'I wonder how she is doing on Vulcan. Is she thinking about me?'

Chester threw a shirt in his bag. "I don't get why I'm so nervous, I command ships of the 'fleet and one woman makes me feel this way!"

Chester sat on his bed, agitated, and ruffled his hair. "Pull yourself together!" he told himself as he got up and continued packing. His door chimed and he commanded it open. His aide, Walters, stepped in and addressed him.

"Good evening, sir."

"Walters, I'm ready, are you?"

"Yes sir. Enterprise has docked and is being supplied as we speak sir."

"Has the president been notified?"

"Yes, his entourage is also heading for the ship along with the other dignitaries who are accompanying on Enterprise, sir."

"Good, then I am ready. I don't want to keep our good captain waiting!"

Walters carried the admiral's bag out of his quarters, and Chester followed him to the transport.

The crew was running frantically around the ship, every yeoman was adding touches to the assigned quarters for the dignitaries. Lt. DeSalle was assigned to the shuttle bay to receive some diplomates while Kirk and McCoy were at the transporter room in their dress uniforms.

"Remind me to get back at Spock for making me wear this choker -can't stand dress uniform!" swore McCoy as he pulled on the collar with his fingers.

Kirk glanced at him and chuckled in agreement while pulling down his tunic.

"What makes matters worse, Bones, is that we have to wear them again at Spock's reception."

Bones rolled his eyes up, "I can't stand it, now I need to notify the quartermasters of more of this-this crap!"

"Just make sure you order your neck size larger."

"Blast it, Jim, I keep forgetting! I don't wear this harness all the time."

The signal from the console indicated that it was time for the guests to arrive, Lt. Kyle adjusted the controls.

"Admiral Nimitz and his party are ready, Captain."

"Thank you."

Admirals Nimitz and Trenton Upton materialized on the platform with their aides. The Boseman blew the whistle and all of Kirk's men stood at attention and said,

"Admirals on board!"

Chester quickly glanced around the room and took a deep breath.

"No need for the fanfare Kirk."

Kirk moved forward to greet the men.

"It's a rare occasion that the Enterprise has the Fleet Admiral and company aboard. Welcome aboard the USS Enterprise Admiral Nimitz, Admiral Upton."

"Permission to come aboard?" asked Upton

"Permission granted."

The two admirals and their aides stepped down for more greetings and Kirk addressed McCoy.

"This is our Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Leonard McCoy."

"Welcome aboard gentlemen, please let me know if you need any assistance."

"Thank you, Doctor." panned Nimitz

Kirk asked both men, "Would you like a tour of our ship Admirals?"

Chester looked at Trenton and said briskly, "Upton if you wish? But I have no desire, this is not an inspection Kirk. I'm just going to a wedding reception. Has the president arrived?"

Kirk was taken aback by the tone of his answer, "No, Admiral, not yet."

"Inform me of his arrival and I will meet him, in the meantime, I would like to be escorted to my quarters."

Kirk addressed two freshly arrived yeomen, "Take the Admirals to their quarters and have Lt. Palmer inform me of the arrival of President Demtrios."

"Yes, Captain."

Kirk continued to stand straight up as the yeomen escorted the admirals and their aides down the corridor. Once the door closed everyone took a deep breath and Bones looked at Kirk, "The man is maintaining his reputation of playing hardball."

Kirk shook his head slowly, Nimitz is tough as nails. "I hope dinner will be a little more relaxing."

They turned to Lt. Kyle, "Who's next on the guest list?"

"The Andorian representatives Sir."

"Okay, Bones let's get this over with." Kirk takes a deep sigh and waits for his next guest. If Nimitz's display was an indication of what his trip to Altairs VI would be like, it didn't look good.

After all the dignitaries had arrived and settled in, the Enterprise was on its way to Altair VI. President Demtrios and his wife were given a tour of the ship with Nimitz and Upton. Nimitz took mental note of their efficiency and was pleased with Kirk's crew, as was to be expected aboard the flagship. Chester will have Walters send a complimentary message after the reception. Demtrios did most of the talking and his wife asked questions which Kirk answered appropriately. Nimitz strolled behind them, taking in the scene and thinking about one particular woman the ship was bringing him closer to on Altairs.

Dinner was buffet style, everybody mingled in groups to eat. Kirk and McCoy stood in proximity to Nimitz and his aide Walters, making sure all his accommodations were met. Lt. DeSalle was hosting Admiral Upton, the president and his wife. Everything was running smoothly, just the way Kirk wanted, no issues. When Kirk was able to get Nimitz and Upton alone he asked the question,

"Excuse me Admirals, where will the Enterprise be docking?"

Trenton spoke up on behalf of Nimitz.

"Kirk, your ship will be docked back at Earth's station for updates. But a Vulcan technician team will be adjusting some areas on the ship."

Kirk raised a brow with curiosity. "Will they be installing a new device or something?"

Nimitz and Upton looked at each other to decide how much information to reveal.

"Well, you could say that, but mostly it's a gift from the Vulcans," said Upton.

"Kirk, that's all we can reveal at the moment," added Nimitz with a smirk. "Your crew will have an extended shore leave, which is a gift in itself. I usually don't allow so much delay or recess from duty. But because of the Vulcans, adjustments were requested."

Kirk tried to figure out what he meant.

Trenton continued, "When shore leave is over, the Enterprise will retrieve Commander Spock and Lt. Uhura for full duty and your orders will be received then."

"Yes Sirs"

Trenton asked Kirk a question about his recent visit to Vulcan. "Kirk, it's my understanding you have met T'Pau?"

"Yes, the first time I met her...she was and is very intimidating. I found myself accommodating her request."

"Interesting. There are times I have wished she was part of the Federation Council, her expertise in diplomacy is impeccable," Nimitz stated.

"I've always had the impression that she is trying to figure me out." added Kirk.

"Her voice speaks volumes in any situation. How is she connected to Commander Spock?" Trenton asked.

Kirk stopped walking and looked at both men, he was surprised no one knew the connection.

"You don't know?"

"Vulcans do not let personal information off their planet. We know T'Pau is one of the most highly respected people not only on her planet but in the Federation." stated Nimitz.

"Gentlemen, Sarek is the son of T'Pau. Spock is her grandson!"

Both men almost fell out of their shoes and their mouths dropped open.

Nimitz spoke up, "I knew Commander Spock was Ambassador Sarek's son, but T'Pau is his grandmother?"

"Yes Admirals, Spock's family is one of the highest respected on their planet and they are direct descendants of their cultural leader. Surak."

"Now I see the connection, I respect that they kept it so low-key." Nimitz commented.

"The thing is gentlemen, they don't have a status quo. Vulcan has a nonchalant behavior on their outlook on family relations," Kirk added.

Trenton added, "Yes, you are correct Kirk. Thank you."

Nimitz continued to think about the relations between the Federation's best diplomat, Sarek of Vulcan, and his more famous mother T'Pau. No one could have imagined that they were related. 'How in the devil did Commander Spock end up at the academy? Glad that man is on our side.' As he introduced himself to the next diplomat.

Kirk went back to entertaining the diplomats and preparing for their arrival forty-two hours.

He wondered how Spock and Nyota were doing on Vulcan. "I hope they are doing better than we are."