Part 24 (2/2)
It was all Kirk could do to keep from bursting out laughing. As he met the Vulcan's gaze, one of the science officer's eyebrows rose prominently. Little more needed to be said.
”It would be my honor, Commander. The science station is yours.” Turning, he addressed the helm briskly.
”Maneuvering thrusters, Mister Sulu. Take us out.”
”Aye, Captain.” Sulu's smile matched those of everyone else on the bridge.
The Enterprise Enterprise began to move. Slowly at first, but without hesitation and with the subtle intimation of purpose that would define her own future. As it slipped clear of the dock, Spock remained by Kirk's side. began to move. Slowly at first, but without hesitation and with the subtle intimation of purpose that would define her own future. As it slipped clear of the dock, Spock remained by Kirk's side.
”Before a.s.suming my formal duties, I must know one thing. The Kobayas.h.i.+ Maru Kobayas.h.i.+ Maru-how did you break the encryption code?”
Looking up at his friend, Kirk was finally unable to repress a smile that harkened back to an earlier time. To a simpler, younger, far more innocent time. He lowered his voice conspiratorially.
”Orion women talk in their sleep.”
Spock considered carefully before responding. ”I suppose I may never understand cheating.”
Kirk nodded slightly. ”Give it...time.”
No one was in the transporter room when it unexpectedly and fleetingly energized. The figure that emerged on the pad closest to the rest of the chamber did not hesitate, but made straight for the nearest open portal. The blip engendered by its appearance was too transitory and insufficient to alert security. It did not matter, because the unexpected arrival's appearance on board caused only consternation and not alarm.
For the life of them, as it sped outsystem and entered warp s.p.a.ce, no one on the Enterprise Enterprise could figure out where the beagle with the very peculiar ears had come from. could figure out where the beagle with the very peculiar ears had come from.
s.p.a.ce-the Final Frontier
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