Title: "The Burning Sands" Under The Sun series, Part 3 Author: T'Thrill Series: TOS Romance Code: S/K/Mc Rating: NC-17 m/m Summary: Still very new in the relationship between the three, Spock realizes that the time of pon farr is approaching.

Warning: It's a story with a lot of sex! It's pon farr and it's not pretty. This story contains very explicit m/m sex. If you are not interested in and/or offended by such things, you will find reading this a complete waste of your time so please move on. If you are under 18 years of age, please move on.

If you have not read "Skylights" and "Life is but a Dream", the first two parts in the Under the Sun series, you may want to do so. You can find them posted on my website, T'Thrill's Den of Trek Delights - http://geocities.datacellar.net/tthrill1612/

Disclaimer: Copyright 2000/reworked in 2002 by T'Thrill. This is an original work of amateur fiction based on Star Trek. This work makes "fair use" of Star Trek copyrighted material; it is not intended to infringe on the intellectual property rights of Paramount, Viacom or other owners of copyright in Star Trek or any of their assignees or licensees. The author's copyright extends only to the original material in this work.

Archive: Archive ASCEML and COCO only, provided that headers, disclaimers, my name, and email are attached. Please archive complete text only. All other please ask permission. Contact me at email address - TThrill1612@aol.com

Feedback: Yes, please! Thank you in advance.

Acknowledgment: Again, I do not have enough kind words to express my gratitude to Selek. He has spent hours going through this reworked series, making corrections and suggestions. Thank you, my friend! And a big 'thanks' to Marcee who helped with the locations in this story.

“The Burning Sands”

Part 1

Jim had purchased a variety of breakfast fruits and breads in hopes of finding foods that would interest Spock. But he noticed the Vulcan only drank coffee and never touched the other items on the table. It had been several days since he had seen Spock eat anything substantial. At the retirement dinner for Admiral Yetis the evening before, Spock had merely pushed the food around on his plate, eating only enough not to appear rude. Jim had tried to ignore this, but he was becoming worried. Maybe living with Bones was rubbing off on him. That’s all Spock needed, another mother hen hanging over him. Leonard had already been on Spock lately about his lack of appetite. But concerned and unable to resist, Jim asked, “Spock, are you sure you’re feeling all right? You know, if Bones catches on that you’re still not eating, he’ll be on your case.”

“I am well,” Spock replied, setting the cup down. But Jim was still doubtful and Spock added, “I simply do not have an appetite at this time. I am certain it is an effect of the quite dramatic recent changes. And, until just recently, I had consumed nothing but Vulcan dishes. I am certain that my desire...” raising an eyebrow, “...for food, will increase in a few days.”

Well, his desire otherwise was just fine. Since the three of them had been together these three months, the intensity of the relationship had certainly not diminished. Even with the long hours that each put in at their respective positions, and the number of functions that they had been attending, they still found time to be together, time to renew each other. He understood that it would take time for the Vulcan’s system to adjust to the current situation. Hell, the truth be known, he hadn’t been eating as much either. And what they did eat, they usually worked off in some very inspired activities. Jim realized that this was one of the first times that Bones wasn’t staying on him about HIS weight!

Watching him over the rim of his cup, Jim couldn’t help but notice every slight movement. He loved any given opportunity to observe this gorgeous being; the shape of the ear, the line of the jaw, the delicate sweep of the brow, all features that he loved running his lips over. There was just something about him, an epitome of grace, elegance, and hidden passions that made Jim long to touch him. Not that this was anything new. He had felt like this since the first days they had begun to serve together. Almost from the beginning they had complimented each other, understood each other, and long before there had been any suggestion of a physical relationship, they had flourished under each other's watchful eye.

Looking back, it was hard to understand why it had taken them so long to get to this point. How many times had Spock stood next to him and it had felt like Jim could feel the Vulcan’s heart pounding within his own chest? Each breath feeling as if it was being filtered through his own lungs? The way they fit together as they made love was no different than the years they had stood at each other’s side. Whether it was on the deck of a ship or in a bed, they moved together as if their actions were choreographed. Ah...but of the two, the time spent in bed was certainly the most pleasant!

He was glad that they had these months on Earth to discover each other before they were thrust into a command situation. Once the overhaul of the Enterprise was completed, there was sure to be periods of time when they would be called to duty. Jim knew that the missions they would be sent out on were destined to be those where only total concentration to the task at hand would suffice. And he knew that as their commander, he would not be able to lose himself in them as he was allowed to in the seclusion of this apartment. Although the status of their relationship would no longer be of any concern to Starfleet, not since Jim had been instrumental in rewriting the outmoded policies that had been in place since the first ships set sail, there would still be a matter of ‘command decorum’ that would be expected from him. They would certainly have to be much more restrained than they had been in these past months. However, as long as the opportunity was here...

He felt his body come alive and knew he must alter this train of thought or he was going to end up throwing Spock to the floor and ravishing him. God! What was happening to him? He and Spock had just spent most of the night making love! There hadn’t been a night like this one in several weeks. Not an all night session, that is. In those first few weeks, there had been very little sleeping going on, but they had recently settled into a pattern of lovemaking that allowed them some time to rest. But in the last couple of nights, they had returned to the way they were in those first days together. Shaking his head to clear his thoughts, he sat his cup down and asked, “So, Spock, we have nothing on the schedule for the next four days. What would you like to do?”

“I was not aware that I was supposed to be considering options. Have you discussed any plans with Leonard?” Spock asked, his voice becoming tinged with passion. Obviously, Jim was not the only one whose mind was wandering to the night’s activities.

Jim smiled and tried to ignore the tone he had come to know so well. “I was going to talk to you both last night, but since he had to stay at the hospital there hasn’t been a chance to discuss it. If we stay around here, one of us will end up working. I think we should get away from the city. Have you ever been to a rodeo? I hear they’re having a big one in Dallas this week. Maybe we could go?”

“Jim, I will accompany you anywhere you and Leonard choose. However, I have never seen the logic in attempting to ride an animal that is equally determined that it will not be ridden.”

“Never mind, Spock.” Jim was smiling at him, “I think we can come up with a better idea.”

The comm unit signaled and Jim walked to the unit and pressed ‘receive’. “Bones, how’s everything going?” He could see the fatigue in the face on the screen. The circles under the eyes were noticeable, as they tended to be when McCoy was tired.

“Not good, Jim. A Rigiaran transport docked last night. They’d had a fire onboard four days ago, but no medic qualified to attend to the burns. It’s been a long session. I think everything’s under control now. I should be leaving here shortly.”

“Are you going to be needed at the hospital the next few days?”

“I shouldn’t have to stay here as long as they can reach me in case of any complications. What do you have in mind?”

“I’d like for us to get out of the city for a couple of days. It’s been too hectic around here lately.”

“Sounds fine to me. Where?”

“I had thought about the rodeo in Dallas, but I don’t believe Spock would be able to fully appreciate it.”

“Spock, at a rodeo? That, I’d like to see!” Leonard chuckled and shook his head.

Noting how tired Bones appeared, Jim decided they definitely needed a location where they could relax. “Bones, do you still have the cabin you used to talk about, the one somewhere in Wyoming?”

“Yeah, sure I do, about forty kilometers outside’a Jackson, but it’s kinda primitive. I’d love to take y’all there, though. It’s got a lake for swimming and some great hiking trails. Very private and real quiet.”

Jim looked at Spock. “How does a few days of cabin living sound to you?”

“It sounds quite pleasing.”

“Great, Bones! It looks like we are headed to your cabin.”

“Good. I should be home in an hour or two. We can leave then if you wish. Just one question, are ya gonna insist we beam over?”

“No,” Jim chuckled, “I’ll book a flitter for us. It shouldn’t take more than an hour to shuttle over.”

“Thanks, Jim. If you can throw some clothes in a bag for me, we can leave as soon as I get there.”

“I don’t know, Bones. Secluded cabin...mountain lake...I don’t think we’ll need too much in the way of clothes,” Jim stated wickedly into the comm.

“You know you're gonna kill me!” McCoy grinned. “I’ll be there as soon as I can get away.”

The next hour was spent with Jim ordering the flitter and picking it up at the transportation center. Spock packed a bag containing clothes for each of them, making sure there were two new tubes of lubricant safely tucked inside. It seemed that in the weeks they had been lovers, they had gone through quite a bit of the gel. He then proceeded to the bathroom where he packed the personal items they would need; soap, shampoo, all the other essential grooming items and paraphernalia, including a small bottle of citrus based cleansing formula and the bag with the attached tube and nozzle that had become an important element in their cleaning routine.

In the kitchen, Spock pulled some supplies from the cupboards and packed them into a knapsack. He hefted the pack over his shoulder, and even though it wasn’t heavy, he nearly collapsed under its weight. His knees buckled and had he not dropped the pack and grabbed the edge of the counter, he would have gone to the floor. A wave of hot nausea hit him as his hands clutched the ledge. He struggled to stand, keeping an iron grip on the counter for support. He shook his head trying to clear his thoughts. This was the third time this had happened to him in the last twenty-one hours. The first was in his office yesterday. The second was in the shower last evening. But neither of the previous attacks were this severe. This attack also brought with it a wave of intense sexual desire.

‘This can not be occurring, it is not time!’ he thought to himself. He could feel his controls slipping from him. The embers of the inevitable fire began growing in the pit of his abdomen. His mind screamed for the burning sands of Vulcan. His groin became engorged. He lost his grip on the counter and went to his knees on the floor of the galley. His palms rubbed up and down his thighs as he resisted the urge to touch himself. His body rocked back and forth as he searched his mind for an anchor of logic. His breathing slowed and the rocking stopped as he found his center.

In a few minutes he was once again in control and his legs were able to support him. Standing, he shook his head and was able to recover from the effects of the attack. He picked up the pack, took it to the door, and placed it beside the bag that held their clothes. When Jim returned from the transport center, they packed the bags into the shuttle. Spock made no mention of the episode. Once Bones arrived, they headed out for the cabin.

Part 2

“Damn, it’s been a while since I’ve been here,” Leonard said, as the door to the cabin swung open and he stepped inside. “It’s gonna take a little time to get this cleaned up. Why don’t you and Spock get the kitchen straightened out and I’ll take care of the rest.” McCoy looked around at the cabin. The large stone pillar of the fireplace that ran through the center of the cabin seemed to divide the space into rooms. It was, however, just one very large room with a kitchen in one corner, a large area across the front for dining and relaxing, and a sleeping alcove behind the fireplace in the far corner. The only room not exposed to the entrance was the bathroom.

He began taking the throws off of the furniture. When he reached the area with the beds, he realized there would have to be some rearranging. He had two low beds that were each somewhat larger than a single, but would certainly not accommodate three men. He pushed them together, found that they fit together snuggly, and decided that this would work fine.

This cabin had once been his refuge. He had bought it several years before his father became ill, and they’d spent many weekends here catching up on the years that they had been separated. He had also come here on the occasions when he needed solitude; like he had just after his marriage contract had been dissolved. This was also his sanctuary when he needed privacy to scream, or cry, or yell until his throat hurt; this he had done after he had assisted in his father’s death. This cabin had been a great place just to sit quietly and contemplate when isolation was required; such was the time when he decided that Earth no longer held anything for him, and space was where he wanted to be. He had only been here on a few occasions since; the last time being three years before when he had returned from Vulcan and had been unable to reach Spock at Gol.

When his marriage had ended, he had lost his daughter. And although he had several sisters, they had their own lives and held no deep-seated connection for him. His father’s death had still been an open wound for him. But his assignment to the Enterprise had made a place for him, and for five years he had a family. However, on his last visit to his cabin, he felt like all he had found had been ripped away.

Leonard leaned against a large support beam and remembered the last night that he had stayed here. It was the night he had contemplated his options. He, a man who had always put life above anything else, had seriously considered taking his own. He had lost everything and had decided that life would never again hold any meaning for him.

He turned and stared at the rug in front of the fireplace. It was that exact spot where he had been sitting, gazing into the fire. The two men who he had loved so dearly for years were gone from him, and he had no one to blame but himself. Just days before the end of the five-year mission, Spock had come to him in the medical lab. That evening, Leonard had confessed to the Vulcan his feelings for both Spock and Jim, and in doing so, started the events that had destroyed the friendship they had found. He despised himself for admitting the truth to Spock. He knew if he had denied those feelings he had secretly held for them, nothing would have happened that night in Spock’s cabin. They would have still been together. Fantasy of what he desired had certainly beaten the reality of the outcome. Physically, nothing could ever compare to the one evening that they had experienced together, but it had not been worth losing the deep friendship they had spent years building. So, he sat on the floor, staring into the flames of the fire, holding the hypospray filled with a lethal dose of neuro-paralyzer, ready to pump it into his body. He had decided never to look back, but there seemed no reason to look forward either. Emptiness--there had been so much emptiness in his life. And this time, the gaping hole inside of him was more pain than he could bear. He could not stand to have this void in his life.

‘Could I have actually gone through with it?’ he asked himself as he remembered that night. He couldn’t say. He had certainly taken all of the steps of preparation, including a time-delayed message to Joanna. They had not been particularly close, her mother had seen to that, but he felt he owed her an explanation of his reasons, without specifics, and instructions for her to acquire his estate. He had even composed a message to both Jim and Spock, advising them of his actions and telling them not to grieve, but had deleted those, deciding that neither would be that upset at his demise anyway.

God! He couldn’t believe that he had ever felt that way about the men who shared his life now. But, at the time, he had convinced himself that neither of them had any feelings for him whatsoever. That night as he was sitting on the floor, the tip of the hypospray pressed against his forearm, his thumb resting lightly against the button that would administer the poisonous dosage, a message had come through on the comm unit. He had considered ignoring it, but the thought occurred to him that it might be Jim. With shaking hands, he had risen and pressed the ‘receive’ button, praying all the while that this would be one of the two men who would be the answer to his prayers. It wasn’t.

It was an old colleague telling him about the dig in the New Consolidated Middle Alliance. He stated the research team, some of the best scientists in the quadrant, were at a standstill with the DNA analysis and wondered if Leonard would consent to give them some time on the project. He hesitated, wondering if he had the stamina left to continue. He had looked down at the syringe in his hand and realized what a rash act he was considering. But even that awareness didn’t end the thought of proceeding altogether. He decided that he could complete this act at a later time if he found surviving too painful. He accepted the offer, canceled the message to Joanna, and threw the hypospray into the fire. He left the cabin the next morning. He became so involved in the project that he never thought of the incident again, until today.

Now, three years later, they were here with him. Not only had they found that friendship again, but had found each other as lovers as well. He was, for perhaps the first time in his life, complete. The awareness flooded him that he could have missed this. It seemed unbelievable that he could have ever been in such a frame of mind that almost drove him to commit suicide. For the first time, he realized that call had saved his life. Leonard made a mental note to forward a bottle of Kentucky’s ‘finest’ to a certain colleague still working in the desert region.

He stuffed the furniture covers into a trunk, flipped the filter switch to remove any remaining dust from the cabin, and went to the kitchen where Jim and Spock had just finished storing the provisions. He didn’t say anything, how could he explain the actions of that night? He just walked up and put his arms around the both of them, needing to feel the reassurance of their presence with a physical connection. Leonard wanted to hold tight to them and never let go. He could tell from the look in Spock’s eyes, that although he didn’t understand the reason, the man certainly understood his need. Warm lips found his; cooler lips found the nape of his neck.

Regaining his composure, he suggested a swim in the lake. They agreed that it sounded like a good way to begin their vacation. The early summer mountain setting was comfortable for the humans, but Leonard was sure it felt quite cool to Spock. He assured his Vulcan lover that because underground hot springs fed the lake, the temperature of the water, and even the surrounding rocks, stayed warm. Upon arriving at the edge they all stripped down and entered the water. Due to the hot water that bubbled underneath, the lake had a natural effervescence that, along with the heat, tingled against the skin. Spock plunged right in where the humans had to ease in to get adjusted to the warmth. They floated in the water, letting it ease the tension from their bodies. Jim began to swim laps across the width of the lake, which soon turned into a good-natured contest between the competitive human and Vulcan. Jim finally gave in and left the water, panting and laughing, wiping the drops from his face and shaking the water from his hair and arms. The picture he made, wet, golden, shining, smiling, did not go unnoticed. It was THAT Jim Kirk who could take your breath away! He climbed onto a rock close to the water’s edge, one that the water lapped against, and laid down, the warm sun glistening against his wet, bare skin. Leonard started to head for the shore when he felt two strong arms wrap around him. He was pulled roughly against a warm body and felt lips and teeth on the back of his neck. Oh, how he loved the feeling of those arms capturing him! And those lips on him could always undo him! And, as if the feeling of those arms and that mouth wasn’t enough to get him aroused, there was an unusual urgency to the man pressing against him. Standing in the waist deep water, he felt the hardness rubbing against him. The hands moved across his chest, taking the time to pinch each nipple, caressed him, and playing across his abdomen before moving lower. He felt the hands reach his groin and he waited breathlessly for the fingers to find his straining erection. Spock’s penis continued its exploration against him, pumping the length of the crevice. One arm released Leonard and he felt the fingers part his mounds as Spock centered the head of his cock to his opening. A hand was stroking the area between his thighs, cupping the sac and gently massaging the orbs inside. Aching for the stimulation of Spock's hand, he reached down and found the fingers and joined them with his own, guiding them to his erection. Wrapping them around the shaft, he moaned at the sensation of his own hand directing the other hand up and down his organ.

Feeling the head press harder against his opening he drew a couple of breaths to help him relax the ring of muscle. He pushed his hips against the hardness until he felt the invasion. That delicious, familiar fire filled him. An arm closed in around his waist and pulled their bodies tight together. The strokes from the entwined hands increased on his own erection as the hard organ pumped deep into him. The heat was building in his abdomen and thighs. He felt the throbbing inside and heard the groans of the one holding him as he came. Feeling the spasms and the hot liquid being released inside him was all it took to cause his own hardness to pulsate and release his seed into the warm water. The hand released his cock and moved to his waist. Both arms encased him, holding him steady, as the invading organ was carefully eased from his rectum.

The lips caressed his neck just under his ear. Leonard turned in the arms to find the dilated, passion-filled eyes staring at him. He captured the slightly swollen mouth with his own. Moving his lips to the side of Spock’s head, he crooned, “If mountain air does this to you, then I’m gonna have to bring you here more often.”

“I believe it is less of an effect of the air, but rather from the company, that arouses me,” was whispered into his ear in a deep rasp.

God, he loved this man, these men, so much that it felt like his chest would burst. Once he was released, they made their way to the edge, lay down beside Jim across the smooth rounded forms of the rocks, and let the heat of the sun radiate against their bodies. Leonard dozed off to the sounds of Jim and Spock engaging in some rather active oral gratification.

The shadows deepened and the air became noticeably cooler. They gathered up their clothes and made their way back to the cabin. Showered and clean, inside and out, Leonard stoked the fire while Jim prepared dinner. Spock took this time to meditate. Soon, warmth was radiating from the fireplace, and delicious smells were emanating from the kitchen.

Dinner was prepared and they sat down to eat. Jim and Leonard both dove right in. It seemed that if nothing else, being in the mountains made them feel hungrier than usual. Well, all but Spock, who, again, barely touched his dinner. Leonard decided that before this weekend was up, he was going to take the opportunity to use the med-scanner on Spock. He was beginning to look as thin and gaunt as he had when he showed up on the bridge of the Enterprise. In the weeks that followed that mission, he had begun to fill out a bit, but any weight the Vulcan had gained, Leonard was sure he had recently lost. After dinner was finished and the dishes were put away, Jim and Spock set up the chessboard. Leonard received a call from the hospital regarding one of the burn cases, so, while the other two played chess, he relayed orders to the medical staff.

It was not far into the game when Jim noticed the beginnings of Spock’s arousal. He had his hands steepled in front of him and his legs stretched out. The movement underneath the loose fitting silk trousers was quite apparent.

Spock’s libido even astonished Jim, who was always ready for sexual stimulation. It had become intense enough that it was not unusual for the Vulcan to have two or three orgasms during their lovemaking sessions. There seemed to be a need that was almost insatiable.

Jim lost the match. Leonard, who had finished at the comm unit and returned to the two men, made some comment about Spock’s arousal being a ploy by the Vulcan to distract Jim. Normally there would have been a direct retort to the remark, but Spock was not interested in colorful repartee this evening. Instead, Leonard found himself being pulled down into a crushing embrace. The hardness was pressed against him in an urgent need for release. The heat of Spock’s skin was warmer than usual, especially considering that it had been just a couple of hours since they had engaged in some very intense activities around the lake. Leonard reached between them and plunged his hand underneath the waistband and found that only the thin material of the trousers covered the hard cock. He caressed the length of the organ and encased it in his fingers as Spock pressed his hips repeatedly toward his fist. In only a few strokes, Spock buried his head in Leonard’s shoulder and with a muffled groan, spewed his ejaculate into Bones’ hand.

Stroking the last of the ejaculate from the still hard cock, Leonard raised his head and stared into the dark brown eyes and felt the familiar pounding in his chest. He had never thought he could love, or be loved, the way he was at this moment. Warm lips claimed his. Ecstasy...that was the only word to describe this feeling. The organ in his hand was not softening, and he knew a night of passion had only just begun. McCoy pushed himself away from the arms and went to the sleeping alcove to retrieve a tube of lubricant from the bedside table and grab a couple of towels.

Spock slid from the chair and knelt down between Jim’s legs, running his hands along the inside of the muscular thighs. To Jim, had the scene that was just played out in front of him not been enough, the heat that radiated from that touch would have set him on fire. Spock pulled Jim from the chair and onto the rug in front of the fireplace, somehow in the process managing to divest the clothes from them both.

Lying on top of Jim, Spock caressed the lines of his face. The warm fingers brushed the meld points and Jim could feel the emotional charge that jumped from the long, slim fingers to the sensitive points. Spock removed his hand and ran his tongue along the side of the face down to the neck beneath the rounded ear. Jim turned his head to explore the points of the magnificent ear with his tongue. Their erections moved together in unison. Their abdomens were becoming slick from the remnants of the fluid expelled with Spock’s ejaculation, as well as from Jim’s pre-cum. The fingers again slid to his temples, and Jim felt a distinctive jolt of need emanating from his heated lover. “Spock,” Jim breathed roughly, “meld us.”

As if he had been phaser stunned, Spock drew back his fingers and, with effort, brought himself to a kneeling position beside Jim. His breathing was in short, gasping breaths. He looked into Jim’s eyes and shook his head. A sorrowful look appeared on his face. “I can not,” was all he said. He stood up and reached for his pants and walked toward the door of the cabin.

“Spock?” Jim called after him.

At the door, the Vulcan stopped and looked back. “Please, give me a few minutes. I will be...fine,” Spock beseeched, and exited the cabin.

Part 3

The door closed and Jim sat up, stunned, and looked at Bones. He got up, pulled on his shorts and shirt, and started after him.

“Wait, Jim!” Bones called.

Jim turned and looked at him. “Wait for what? I’ve got to talk to him! Something’s wrong!” he stated, the irritation of being stopped apparent in his voice.

“Give him a few minutes. If my suspicions are correct, he needs time to collect himself.”

“Time? Time for what?” Jim stopped his charge for the door, but stood poised ready to walk out at any moment.

“Jim, there’s somethin’ I think we need to talk about. Problem is...I’m not sure of my facts here.”

“What is it?” Jim could feel the hair on his neck begin to prickle. Bones was serious.

Leonard tossed the items he had retrieved from the sleeping alcove onto the chair where he and Spock had just made love and sat down on the long bench against the wall. “It’s Spock. I’ve begun to pick up on something, well, I can only describe it as restless.”

“How so?” Jim had stopped his rush for the door and moved toward Bones.

“Well, I’ve noticed that in the last couple of days he’s become so damned intense, almost agitated. Then this afternoon, there was a feeling that he was driven. He is just more forceful lately than I have seen him in the past.” “Bones, I think we’ve all become more forceful in these months.” Jim gave him a nervous, lopsided smile, but he valued this man's opinion. “What is it that you suspect?”

“Yeah, I know. And I guess that’s the only reason I haven’t hauled him down to the ‘Fleet hospital for a complete going over. Look, I know very little about the Vulcan cycle, other than what we found out several years ago. You know how little he shared with us about that. But he’s showing all of the same symptoms that he was then. He has a decreased appetite and is subject to frequent emotional outbursts, although I must admit, I’m enjoying it much more this time,” Leonard said, returning the nervous smile. “I haven’t performed a physical on him since right after he tried to meld with that machine. But I think if I got a chance to examine him, I’d find that his bio-readings are out of sync.”

“His bio-readings? Bones, are you saying you believe that Spock in entering into pon farr?”

“Honestly, I don’t know, but I certainly think it’s something worth finding out. I don’t want to turn around one day and find he’s taken off for Vulcan. I’ve already been through that, thank you!”

Jim considered the possibility. He looked toward the door and considered what Bones was saying. He had noticed Spock’s lack of appetite and the brief, but powerful feeling that came through when Spock had touched his meld points. And sexually, he had become very intense, but hell, they all could be accused of that lately. He sat down on the bench beside the doctor. But, he thought, Spock had said that this came upon Vulcan males every seven years. It hadn’t been that long since they had taken Spock to Vulcan the last time. “Bones, the timing isn’t right,” Jim shook his head.

“The timing be damned, Jim! I’m telling you, he’s showing all the same symptoms,” Leonard insisted.

Maybe Bones was onto something. “Okay, say you’re right. If it is that, do you think he’ll need to go back to Vulcan and create a bond with someone?”

“Jeez, I have no idea. But that’s what I presume will have ta happen. But I gotta tell ya, the thought of losing him to someone like that T’Pring bitch makes me sick! Hell, who am I kidding? The thought of losing him to anyone makes me sick!”

“Bones...what if...do you think,” Jim looked at the man beside him, “he would be able to bond with us?”

“Well, Sarek is bonded to Amanda, but I have no idea if Vulcans even allow same-sex bonding or not. And Jim,” Leonard dropped his gaze, searching for the best way to say this without sounding like an asshole, “as much as I love him, I’m not certain... that is... to have someone constantly inside of my mind...scrambling my brains like that, I don’t know if I could commit to anyone in that way. God, I can’t tell you how much I love both of you. And I’d give either one of you anything I have. But, the idea of always havin’ someone screw around in my head scares the hell out of me. Selfish, huh?”

“No, Bones,” Jim said laying his hand on the leg beside him, “you shouldn’t feel forced into anything you’re not comfortable with.”

Leonard looked up at Jim. “What about you? We’re not talking about a meld here, we’re talking about a life-long commitment to have someone else’s thoughts inside your head.”

Jim looked to the door and then back to Leonard. “If, and only if...” gently squeezing the thigh beneath his hand, “it meant that I would be able to keep you as my lover, I would consent to bond with him. But I won’t do anything to jeopardize what we have.” He placed one hand on the head of the man beside him, caressing down the side of his face with his fingers. Jim leaned over and brushed his lips against Leonard’s. As much as the man outside was his passion, this man was his center. He whispered, “I gave you up once, I will not risk that happening again.”

The blue eyes sparkled, how did he rate the love of such a man? “Look, I may be getting worked up over nothing,” Leonard’s voice calmed. “I may be reading something that isn’t there.”

“Maybe, but it makes sense. And even if that isn’t what’s going on now, we know the time will come. Obviously there’s something wrong; something we need to discuss.”

Bones nodded as Jim stood up, reached for the blanket on the bench, and walked out the door. “Spock?” Jim whispered into the silence.

Spock was standing on the porch, gripping the rail, looking into the blackness of the night. His thoughts were racing. This could not be happening. ‘Not now!’ The three of them had just found each other. He had convinced himself that the recent increase in his passions related to the newness of this relationship. However, for the last day he had felt the burning. He was entering his cycle and it was not his time. He discerned a feeling arising within him that could only be described as panic. Whether this was fear of what was to come, or for the effect that this would have on his current relationship he wasn’t sure. But it was detectable nonetheless.

He fought against the heat radiating from his groin. ‘No!’ he silently screamed into the blackness. In calculating his seven-year cycle, he should have had another one point eight years before this came upon him. To expose the two men in the cabin to this was unthinkable. There were few options open to unbonded Vulcan males. He would have to choose the best of these, however unpleasant it would be. To bond himself to a Vulcan with which there was no emotional link was something he would no longer consider. Death was something he would rather avoid. The only other solution would be to arrange for a kalogi. He was aware that the pain would be intense, however, given the fact that it would keep him alive, it would have to suffice, he thought to himself.

Jim stepped over to his friend and laid the blanket around his shoulders. He felt the skin beneath the material quiver when he wrapped it around him. “Spock, I am here. We’re here,” he whispered.

Spock turned and looked at Jim. From the light of the cabin Jim could see a glistening in the dark eyes.

“Spock, did I upset you? I know we’ve melded many times before, but maybe you’re not ready for that now.”

“No, Jim, you have done nothing. There is something I must do. Something I must tell you both.” A chill ran through his body, but he was unsure if it was from the chill in the evening air or from the fever that was beginning to affect him.

Jim saw the visible shiver. “Come inside. It’s cool out here.”

Spock nodded and walked back inside with Jim. Leonard had opened the bourbon and retrieved three glasses. “Drink?” Leonard asked. Sometimes this stuff really was good for medicinal purposes.

Spock nodded and Leonard poured a drink and handed it to him. He laid his hand on the shoulder and felt the unusual heat, even for Spock, radiating through the blanket. He was very tempted to get the med-scanner, but he decided to wait to see what Spock had to say. He handed Jim a glass, kept one for himself, and the three settled into the chairs around the fire.

Spock looked at the men he had come to love. “Jim, you have done nothing. But I find that I must return to Vulcan.” “Why, Spock?” Leonard paused, “Are you entering into pon farr?” he leaned forward and asked gently.

Spock slightly raised one eyebrow. It was obvious that he was surprised by the doctor’s insight. But his tone of voice was brusque as he answered. “The preliminary stages, yes.”

Jim nodded at Spock. “Bones suspected that you may be.”

Spock looked at Leonard. “Very astute, Doctor,” the Vulcan clipped. Leonard knew that Spock was closing down about this subject, and it pissed him off.

“What can we do to help?” Jim asked.

“I will be fine once I return to Vulcan. There is no other action needed,” Spock answered. In the last few minutes, he had managed to transform from the loving, passionate man they had come to know privately, into the stoic Vulcan of three months before.

“Dammit, Spock!” Leonard cried out in frustration. His outburst surprised the men in the room with him; even that infernal Vulcan facade broke for just a moment. Leonard even surprised himself a bit. “I’m sure that Vulcans have their reasons why they’re so secretive about this time. But I’ll be damned if I’m gonna let you close us out. Not this time, my friend. Not after what we’ve become to each other.”

“Doctor, you do not understand. This is a very private matter, and not something that we speak of.”

“Don’t speak of! My God, man! Didn’t we just recently make a commitment to each other that we were going to share our lives? What the hell did you take that to mean? At the first sign of trouble, you’ve decided to crawl back into that damned shell and shut us out!”

“This is a time that our people find repugnant. It is not our way to discuss such things openly.”

“And THAT kind of thinking almost got Jim killed last time! God-dammit!” There was a definite flinch from the Vulcan at these words. Leonard hoped he was beginning to break through that shield of logic that Spock was so famous for hiding behind.

“Bones...” Jim interrupted. Leonard knew that Jim was going to try to stop him. But, damnit, he was going to get this out, once and for all.

Flashing a look toward him, he said, “No, Jim, you’re not going to stop me! I’ll not stand here and let him shut us out, not again!”

Leonard could no longer sit still. He rose from the chair and paced to the fireplace where he turned and stared at the Vulcan. “This is your biological cycle, Spock! I don’t know what kind of hogwash they feed you on Vulcan, but every species either has biological cycles, or dies out. It’s as natural as a human female’s menstrual cycle, or the wet dreams that every normal human male experiences as a teenager.”

“Leonard, a human female does not lose all reason during her menstrual cycle, nor does a teenage male find his lucidity stripped from him when he awakes from an erotic dream.”

“That depends on who you ask. Mr. Spock, there’s obviously a lot you don’t know about humans,” McCoy couldn’t help the small smiled directed toward his lover. But the smile faded as he continued. “Listen, Spock, I can stand here all night giving you examples of biological cycles from every known species, but what’s the use? Vulcans seem to view their cycle as some kind of an imperfection, a weakness that must be cloaked in mysticism to concealed the shame.”

Walking to the chair, he knelt down in front of Spock. His voice softened. “Look, I don’t mean to discount the seriousness of this. I haven’t forgotten what you went through the last time. I know damned well that this is a loathsome time for you that you find embarrassing. I remember quite well what you went through when your logic was stripped away, and it’d be my personal choice that you’d never have to face that again. Yes, I’d begun to put two and two together, and I’d hoped like hell that I was wrong. But it’s happening, and we have to cope with it. And, Spock, I mean ‘we’.”

“He’s right, you know,” Jim leaned in. “You’re not by yourself, not anymore. I meant what I said out there. We’re here for you.”

Spock nodded his understanding and swallowed the lump of emotion that threatened to undo him. There were no others who could realize the ramifications of this better than the two humans seated in the room with him. “Yes,” Spock sighed a deep breath of acquiescence, “I realize that.” His glance moved from Jim to Leonard. “It is difficult to remember that even about this, I have vowed to hide nothing from you.”

Leonard rose up on his knees and gently placed a hand at the back of Spock’s head. “Spock, we love you. And no matter what it takes, we’re gonna see that you get through this.”

There was no reply, at least not in words. But the warm arms that slid around his shoulders, and the head that buried in his neck, told him all he needed to know. Leonard stroked the back and felt the body relax under his touch. With all the strength, knowledge and determination that this man possessed, sometimes it was easy to forget just how vulnerable he was when he let his guard down.

Spock brought his head up and looked at Leonard. His fingers traced the face of his friend and lover.

“You okay?” Leonard whispered.

“I am now,” Spock replied. Clearing his throat, he straightened, and let his hands drop from McCoy’s shoulders. Looking from the man kneeling before him to the concerned hazel eyes of Jim, he said, “Forgive me. I was wrong to attempt to keep this from you. You may ask anything you wish. I will, to the best of my ability, answer any questions you have.”

“Spock,” Jim hesitated, “are you certain that this is pon farr? I don’t understand why this is happening now. I thought this only occurred once every seven years.”

Spock shook his head. “I am uncertain as to the reasons that this is coming upon me early. Although I had my first attack yesterday, I have only been sure since this morning. But there is no longer any doubt that it is my Time.” He retrieved the glass that he had sat on the table beside the chair and took a sip of the bourbon. The heat felt soothing.

“So what happens now? You stated that you have to return to Vulcan. When?” Jim asked.

“I have only entered the first stage. During this stage, my ability to reason is still intact. However, over the next days, there will be periods when my primal urges to mate will become more frequent. I have six days before the second stage, the stage known as plak tow, begins. At that point, I must be on Vulcan.” “Spock, what about a bonding mate?” Jim asked, although her didn’t want to hear the answer. The thought of Spock bonded to someone else was more than he could stand.

“There are arrangements that can be made.”

Leonard had moved back to the chair where he had been seated before his emotional outburst. “Are you talking about a prearranged affair like you had before?” McCoy’s words were tinged with fear. He remembered how close he came to losing both of these men on that damned red planet.

“No, there are individuals that can assist me through this without the creation of a bond. It is not an optimal solution, but it is the option I choose.”

“Spock, what are the other options?”

“To find a bondmate. To die.” Spock listed his only other options without any hint of emotion. “Well, dying is certainly not an option, I agree. How long will you need to be on Vulcan?” The questions were coming to Jim’s mind so quickly, he felt dizzy.

“Once the period of plak tow has begun, the fever will last four days. With travel included, I should be gone no more than twelve days.”

“Who are these individuals that you say you can make an arrangement with?” Leonard was going to be certain that he had all of the facts this time.

Spock looked at the glass in his hands, took a breath and said, “These are individuals who for various reasons lack the ability to create a bond with another. Some of these individuals choose to live a life of solitude, some go to Gol, others participate as kalogi servants, that is someone that will service a male in pon farr without benefit of a bond.”

“Spock, I was under the assumption that only males were allowed to study at Gol. Does that mean that there are males that service other males?” McCoy questioned.

“Actually, gender is not an issue when choosing to study at Gol, but if you are asking if there are males who serve in this capacity, then yes, there are male and female kalogi servants.” He noted the surprised look on Leonard's face. “Vulcans have recognized same-sex relationships far longer than they have been acceptable to Terrans, Leonard.”

“And, I suppose, you would...choose a male?” Leonard asked. For some reason, he felt a stab of jealousy at the thought of Spock sharing this intimate relationship with another man.

“Yes. Although the only male companions that I have experienced are here with me, I realize that the desire to have anything other than homosexual relations no longer appeals to me. Therefore, it would be my choice to be serviced by a male.”

“Spock,” Jim wanted to put this as carefully and as clearly as he could, “could you bond with me?”

Chapter 4

Spock stared at the man leaning toward him; the gold-green eyes were clear and bright. As much as Spock wanted this, he could not accept the offer. “No, that would not be wise.” Spock shook his head.

“Why?”

“The achievement of the bond is permanent. If anything were to happen to either of us, without preparation, there could be permanent damage.” He took a sip of the potent liquid and continued, “Jim, that is why I have not been able to meld with either of you. A meld during intense passion has the potential of starting the bonding process. I am uncertain to what extent such a bond could form. I do not believe that it would become a full bond, but I do not wish to chance involving either of you in this. There are risks associated with this time.”

“In what way? Is there another chance of a fight to the death?” Remembering the last time they were involved with Spock's pon farr, he certainly did not wish to repeat those events.

“No, there would not be a challenge,” he looked at Jim and raised an eyebrow, “unless you should request it.” A small smile caressed the Vulcan’s lips.

“Not a chance of that Spock, unless you decide to bond yourself to another. Then I just might be forced to issue the challenge myself!” Even Leonard had to smile at that statement. The same thought had occurred to him.

“No, bonding myself to another is not an option that I will consider. Not after finding the two of you,” Spock whispered.

“Okay, then say we could find a way to get past all of rest. That we could find a way to deal with those situations where one or the other of us is in danger. I’m in good physical shape and believe I’m capable of handling the risk.”

“Jim, there are activities that are associated with the blood fever that you would fine quite distasteful.”

“Spock, you’ve seen me through some times where I wasn’t exactly at my best, and you’re still here with me. So, what is it you’re talking about? Is it that there’s prolonged, rough sex involved? Spock, there are humans that have gone through this before. I’m certain that I would be able to handle whatever happens.” He thought of Amanda, but he didn’t care to bring Spock’s mother into a discussion regarding unbridled sex. “Besides, I’ve seen you stricken with the fever once before, remember? I didn’t find it offensive.” Jim thought, ‘painful, but not offensive.’

“You saw me possessed by the fever, but you did not see what the fever will do to me during the mating. The third stage of pon farr is all consuming. It is an uncontrollable outpouring of denied passions. It is an exploring of all of the senses. You would not find it a pleasant experience.”

“I’m not talking about whether or not it will be pleasant. I’m talking about bonding with you, being there for you, whatever happens. Not only now, but for as long as I live.”

“Jim...” To speak of this was difficult. He was breaking ancient Vulcan discipline to discuss these acts, but these were the men who had stood at his side the last time this came upon him and who shared his bed now. “There are...few outworlders...who have participated in the rituals of pon farr. I am unaware of any humans that have been involved with the full mating.”

“Spock, your own mother...” Jim began, seeing there was going to be no alternative but to point out the one human who he was certain had been through this.

“My mother has never participated in the full ritual. As long as other arrangements are in place, it is a bondmate's right to not go through the period of blood fever. Jim, even among my own people there are those who find this time so abhorrent that they cannot bring themselves to endure it. My father has had consorts that he has gone to since long before my parents’ marriage.”

Jim was taken back for a moment. It never occurred to him that Sarek would have lovers other than Amanda. “So, what’s involved? What practices are we discussing?”

“What we are discussing is passion without controls. I would find it hard... impossible...to consider your needs...your desires. At this time, I would be...consumed...only with the pleasuring of myself.”

“Now wait just a damn minute,” McCoy interrupted. “Spock, would there be danger of serious physical injury?”

Spock looked at the doctor. To keep the humans he loved from committing to this, he would like to tell him that there was great danger, mortal danger. However, this was inaccurate. The effects on the human body were unknown. The men before him were strong and the detriment to their bodies, physically, would probably be minimal. However, the effects mentally could be profound. “I can not say there would be no physical damage...but I do not believe that it would be life threatening.”

McCoy relaxed somewhat, but still cautious about what Jim was offering.

Jim leaned forward and placed his hand on the arm of his friend. “Spock, I love you. I managed to lose both of you once. I’ll do anything in my power to keep that from happening again.”

“Jim, you will not lose me. I will return to you after this is over. This is something I must do. I have caused hurt to the both of you in the past. I wish to assure you that this is something I choose for the benefit of us all.”

“You said something about using a, what was it, a kalogi servant? You said that was not an optimal solution. Why?” Leonard asked.

This was difficult to explain in Standard. Many of the terms had no translation. Spock attempted an explanation, “There can be no bond...no sharing of minds, with a kalogi. The...outpouring of emotions...and the sharing of those with another, is an integral part of the burning. Without this, there is no escape from the intense thoughts that are consuming the mind. Without the mental release there is...pain. It is very similar to no physical release when there is great arousal. The sexual release will keep me alive...however, there will be no outlet for the mental release.”

“Spock,” Jim stood up and walked to the hearth and stood there a moment staring into the flame in silence. Turning, he walked to the chair where Spock was seated and knelt down so he could meet the Vulcan eye to eye. “I want to know one thing. If we were to bond, just you and I, would we still be able to keep the same arrangement that we have now, with the three of us?”

Spock looked over at Leonard. “I’m sorry, Spock,” Leonard tilted his head down. “I do love you. It’s just the idea of havin’ someone in my mind all of the time, even you, scares the hell outta me.”

Jim whispered, “And, I do wish to bond with you, if you will allow it.”

The unending love that shone from the eyes of the man kneeling before him was amazing. “Jim, you do not know what you are asking.” “Spock, I need you. I need you both. Answer my question. Would it affect the relationship between the three of us?”

“No, Jim, it would not.”

“Then I’m willing to deal with whatever happens. If we want this, then we can find a way to work around the obstacles. Spock, will you allow me to be your bondmate?”

Spock looked toward the fire, silently staring into the flames. After a few moments he turned back to Jim. It seemed the humans didn’t draw a breath as they waited for Spock’s answer. He stood up, reached down and pulled Jim up to him. “Are you certain you know what you are committing to? This will be a life bond.”

“Spock, I only know that one lifetime isn’t nearly long enough.” He tasted the lips of the man he wanted as his partner for the remainder of his life. “Will you have me?” he whispered.

Spock stared into the hazel eyes. The flecks of gold were reflecting both the leaping flames of the fire, and the love that boiled inside. He had never dreamed that this much love could be directed toward him. Both of these humans loved him, as intensely as he loved them. “Yes, I would be very honored for you to be my bondmate.” He captured the mouth with his own.

Releasing the mouth of the man who had just committed the remainder of his life to him, Spock looked toward the man seated in the chair closest to the fireplace. McCoy, too, was very much a part of him. A thought occurred to him. “Leonard, I understand the source of your reluctance. It is not an easy decision to be a full bondmate to someone. However, there is a way of joining you to this union.”

“There is? How?” McCoy asked.

“There are allowances for individuals to be included in a family unit through a much lighter bond. There are situations where a Vulcan male has chosen two or more individuals to share his life and one partner either declines, or is not offered, a full bond.

“With a full bond, Jim will have to be trained to shield his thoughts from me, as I will have to shield from him. Through this lighter type of union, my link to you would be weaker than my bond to Jim. Although our thoughts will not be omnipresent, they are accessible through physical contact. The difference being that I would have to be in physical contact with you for us to have the ability to exchange thoughts. However, it would still be a life bond.

“As a full bondmate, my heritage will be bestowed upon Jim. He will have all rights to my property and my family name. He will be recognized as skan, a family member. You would be recognized as my principal consort. And, as my consort, you would be welcomed to participate in the mating, if that is something you wish.”

“Consort?”

“Leonard,” Spock knelt down in front of McCoy’s chair. “I would never ask you to do anything that would diminish you. The best translation for this position is consort. However, the position is actually called sko’tan. It is a position of honor. Whereas bondmates are often arranged, the individual who has been declared as sko’tan is seen as a life partner through choice. The closest Terran reference that I can give you is that of spouse, where two individuals choose to declare their allegiance to each other. If you choose not to become a co-bondmate, would you be interested in an arrangement such as this?” He held his hand out to Leonard.

Leonard reached for the outstretched hand and was pulled up and against Spock. “Spouse... huh? Yes...yes, I would be honored to become your...sko’tan.” He ran a hand through the less than perfectly placed black hair and leaned forward to join his lips to the much warmer ones.

Leonard, once Spock had released him, looked toward Jim. The smile on Bones’ face seemed to say it all. “So, Spock, when do we need to make these arrangements?” Jim asked.

“I will need to contact my parents soon. I owe them the respect of advising them of my pending bond, although I am unsure as to whether they will be willing to attend. The relationship with my father has improved, but I am unsure as to whether he will accept this. I will also contact the Vulcan ministry tomorrow to arrange a ceremony. We will need to arrive on Vulcan in five days.”

Jim nodded. Spock’s tone made it clear that whether or not his parents accepted this was not going to be a factor. He hoped it would not cause another riff to form between them, but knew it may be just one other obstacle worth facing. “I won’t have any problems getting away. I will send my notification of leave status through tomorrow. How about you, Bones?”

“Everything seems under control with the Rigiaran crew. Other than that, I work at my own pace. Except for taking my name off of the on-call list, I can leave anytime.”

“Good,” Jim stated, and then turned to Spock. “I’m assuming you can leave at any time, right?”

“Indeed. All is running smoothly at the Academy, and since Starfleet has instituted provisions for Vulcans, I will be able to depart on the next available transport.”

“Well, I’ll be goddamned!” Bones laughed, looking between the men standing in the room with him.

“What?” Jim asked, smiling at McCoy. “Did we just agree here that we’re gettin’ married?”

“Leonard,” Spock stepped toward Leonard and pulled him into a crushing embrace. In a deep resonating voice, he said, “If you insist on redefining this in archaic Earth terms, then, yes, we are getting married.” There was a definite sparkle in those black eyes.

“Well, call it what you will, I’m damn excited!” He wrapped his arms around both of the men.

Part 5

Spock held these two men; these men who had just agreed to share the most intimate of times with him and remain bonded to him for the rest of their lives. This was a commitment he was never prepared to ask of them. Certainly something he was unprepared to ask from them this early in their relationship.

He caressed the face before him. The normally icy blue eyes were becoming very dark. He loved running his fingers along the meld points of this man. Whereas with Jim he found brightness, strength, and light, there was a fire that radiated from McCoy. Passions that boiled just beneath the surface and often went unchecked. How he looked forward to falling into this mind. It would be a challenge to meet this flurry of emotions without boundaries.

“Now, that’s what I love to see,” Bones grinned.

“What?” Spock asked.

“Your smile,” Bones purred.

He was unaware that he had been smiling. This man, these men, could tear down his shields as nothing else in his life had ever done before. He felt the next wave of heat threaten to consume him and a shiver ran through his body. This time, however, the feeling of panic Spock had felt before was abated.

Both humans felt the ripple pass through the slender body and noticed the heat of the skin rise once more.

Leonard’s breath caught at the feel of the erection pressing into his thigh. His hand found its way to the bulge covered by the silk trousers, knowing there was another treasure of silken steel underneath. He traced the hardness until moisture began to seep through the fabric.

Leonard looked to Jim and saw that the gold-green eyes were transfixed upon the ministrations his hand was giving to the protrusion. He reached for Jim’s hand and formed it around the silk covered shaft. He then maneuvered Jim between them and began an assault on the broad, muscular back.

Spock held Jim, and in a voice that poured over the human like liquid velvet, said, “I believe I interrupted something that we had started earlier. I want to resume making love to you.”

“Spock, could you meld us now? I mean, since we’re going to be bonded anyway?” Jim flashed ‘the look’ at Spock; the one that Bones swore had conquered half of the galaxy.

“It would not be wise until the ceremony. A spontaneous bond may be formed and you would then be subjected to the effects of the blood fever.” He pulled the shirt over Jim’s head and tossed it aside, giving Leonard full access to Jim’s torso. “With us still days away from the full bonding it would be better to wait,” Spock replied, his voice coarse with passion, as he ran his fingers down Jim’s ribs. Leonard noticed that although a day in the sun had turned his own skin to a slight pink, Jim had begun to take on the hue of burnished gold. Bones pushed the shorts down and off. He admired the well-defined muscles of the back as he ran his hands down the length of the spine, and cupped the mounds, massaging and kneading them. He turned his hands so that his fingers were separating and caressing within the sensitive crevice. This body was so very responsive. “But if...” Jim purred into the base of the long neck, “we are going to share our minds...” he thrust his pelvis against the material of Spock’s trousers and the hard mass underneath, “...wouldn’t it be logical for me...” he nibbled at the lobe of the delicate ear, “...to share this with you?”

“No.” Spock freed his ear from the erogenous actions of his lover’s mouth. “It would be more logical...” his teeth gently catching the bottom lip of the man pressed against him, “...for you...” his breath caught as his trousers were pushed to his thighs, “...to wait until...” breathing deeply as the cooler hand increased the exploration of his erection, “...we can be properly bonded.”

“I have a question,” Leonard moaned into the back of the neck that he was taking pure delight in running his tongue and lips across.

Jim, pulling his lips from the man in front of him, but never taking his eyes from the dark ones, asked, “What, Bones?”

“How in the HELL can the two of you carry on these life-altering conversations during the heat of passion?”

“Umm,” was the only answer he received, as the lips of the men were, once again, inseparable.

Leonard went to his knees and began to apply nibbling caresses to Jim’s mounds, forming a wet trail around the tight ass. Jim was becoming heated and the smell of the sandalwood soap he used was becoming tinged with the natural sweetness of his musk. With his tongue, Leonard traced the crevice, dipping the tip between the mounds and wetting the puckered rim with his saliva. With the touch of his tongue against the entrance to Kirk's body, he heard a small gasp. Using his hands, he spread the mounds, exposing the small, furrowed aperture. As a physician and knowing the risks, he had never before considered rimming any of his sex partners. But since they had been lovers, staying clean, inside and out, had been a priority, quite often assisting each other with the necessary task; just as they had done this afternoon. And this, he wanted to do.

Pressing the tip of his tongue to the constricted hole he pushed gently against it. When his tongue breached the orifice, he heard Jim breathe, “Oh, God...Bones!” It urged him in deeper. He strained his tongue as far into the hot, damp flesh as he could with Jim standing, and he felt his lover tremble with this unfamiliar touch.

Leonard realized that he was also trembling. Something about being allowed to touch his lover this way, in the most intimate of all acts that could be performed between them, made him feel as if he was sealing his very soul to this man. They had decided this evening that soon a bond would exist between the three of them, but this, in itself, was a sanctioned bond, one of acceptance and trust.

McCoy realized that Spock had sat down in the chair behind him, and was pulling Jim’s head to his lap to give Leonard full access. Jim was bending over, thighs spread, opening himself up fully to Leonard’s mouth. Driving the length of his tongue into the slick chamber, he swirled it against the ring of muscle, stimulating the sensitive tissue, and felt Jim begin to writhe against him.

Glancing over the golden back, Leonard realized that Jim’s mouth was lashing up and down Spock’s organ as the Vulcan, dark eyes hooded in passion, watched him tongue-fuck Jim. One of Spock’s hands was embedded in the golden hair, guiding the head up and down his cock. The other hand was holding the base of the shaft guiding it into Jim’s mouth. For the briefest instant, Leonard thought he could feel the pleasure being experienced from all of them, and his cock, still trapped within his trousers, jerked as if he could feel Spock’s pending orgasm; as if it was going to push him over as well.

Leonard lapped at the anal passage, and drove his tongue in repeatedly. The Vulcan rolled his head back and moaned as he came. Leonard teased the entrance until he was certain the Vulcan’s last spasm had passed and Jim had released the penis, then he drove his tongue back in as deeply as possible.

“Oh...yes...God...Bones!” Jim panted.

Leonard ran his hand underneath Jim and kneaded the pouch that was engorged and ready for release. His hand went to Jim’s cock and stroked him with the same rhythm he was still giving to Jim’s ass. It only took a few caresses before Jim’s chamber began to contract around his tongue and the cock began to throb in his hand. Leonard used his tongue and hand to massage Jim to completion. Warm streams of cum spurted into Leonard’s hand and dripped onto Spock’s thighs as Jim gripped the arms of the chair and roared his orgasm.

Jim heard himself moaning as the waves of pleasure washed over him. Never had he dreamed of anyone invading him in such an intimate way, nor had he realized how wonderful it would feel. Perhaps it was the taste of Spock’s cum still fresh in his mouth, or the memory of Bones’ tongue invading him, or the last tender lap Bones gave his opening as he had pulled free, but even the powerful orgasm did nothing to diminish his erection. Once released by both the attentive mouth and hands, he turned and captured Leonard’s mouth, driving his tongue between the slightly parted lips. Between them they shared the taste of Spock’s semen, the citrus of the cleaning formula they used for internal cleansing, the slightest hint of his own musk combined with the flavors that were unique to them both.

Jim stroked Leonard’s erection and freed it from the trappings of the fabric. The head and shaft were wet and slick from the drops of pre-cum leaking from the slit. Pulling his head back Jim looked into the cerulean eyes. “Bones...” Jim breathed. “God, Bones...do you know how good that felt...to have you...penetrate me...like that?”

“Jim...” Leonard stroked down the side of Jim’s face. “I know how good it felt to take you like that. I’ve never considered...that is...except for the two of you, I would never...”

“I know, Bones,” Jim breathed before capturing his mouth once again.

Pulling back once more, his hand still stroking Leonard’s cock, Jim asked, “What do you want, Bones?”

“Do you really want to know?” Bones smiled.

“Yeah, I really want to know,” Jim smiled back with that passionate half-smile that in itself could almost undo the doctor.

“I wanna fuck you. But not here. On the bed,” Leonard breathed. Even in this state of constant arousal, the floor was becoming quite hard on his knees.

Jim stood up and pulled Leonard up with him. Turning, he reached for Spock’s hand and they walked to the sleeping area. Releasing them, Jim went to his hands and knees on the large bed. Standing at the side, Leonard reached for the lubricant and realized he had taken the tube that had been on the nightstand to the area in front of the fireplace.

“Spock, I need some gel, oil, anything,” Bones rasped, with a tone of urgency while pushing his pants quickly out of the way. Spock walked back to the front of the cabin and retrieved the items that had been laid on the chair earlier. Leonard placed his knees on the edge of the bed and positioned himself behind Jim. Spock sat down beside them, squeezed some of the gel onto his fingers and began to rub it into Jim. Penetrating the opening, he stretched it in preparation for Leonard’s entry. He then took more of the gel and reached down between Leonard’s thighs and spread the lubricant on the head and shaft of the very erect cock.

“Oh God, Bones, fuck me,” Jim panted, ready for the invasion.

Bones centered his cock at the opening and pressed inside. He loved feeling the tightness surrounding him. He moved slowly at first, until he knew Jim was comfortable with the full length of him, and then spooning himself to Jim’s back, he began pumping into the body. Leonard had just begun to find a comfortable rhythm that wouldn’t rush either of them to orgasm when he felt Spock behind him. The Vulcan was kneeling on the floor and spreading his mounds. Fingers pressed inside of him, opening him up, but then they were removed and warm streams of air beat against his orifice as the fingers were replaced with Spock’s tongue.

As intimate as it felt invading Jim’s chamber orally, it was nothing compared to the sensation as Spock entered him in the same way. The awareness that Spock was invading him in such a way nearly overwhelmed him. He felt the hot slickness as it stimulated the nerve endings just inside the thick ridge of muscle, the initial wariness that he shouldn’t be allowing anyone to penetrate him in this manner, and the slow realization that it was all right to relax against the touch and allow his lover to perform this act on him.

Once he had relaxed, the tongue inside of him ignited an inferno in his gut that seemed to shoot out missiles of pleasure that detonated throughout his body. Each time he thrust his length into the body beneath him, the swirling invasion inside of him would slide to where it was just teasing the entrance. But as he withdrew, he would once again become impaled, and his body would be bombarded with another round of dizzying rapture. Pumping into the tightness and feeling the invasion within him soon had him unable to hold back. He thrust deep into the body and released himself in powerful, surging waves of mind-numbing ecstasy. When the last spasm had passed, and Spock had released him, he pulled out of Jim and collapsed onto his back.

Spock moved up on Leonard, straddled him, and gathered him into strong arms. With bruising urgency, Spock claimed his mouth. He felt the shivers of the fever in the man above him as Spock pulled up one of the doctor’s legs and centered his cock to the opening. Leonard realized that the head of the cock was already slick and ready to invade him. Pressing against his entrance, there was a pause as if Spock was waiting on permission to press in further.

“Yessssss....” McCoy hissed, and felt the pressure as the double-ridged head slid inside. As he drove repeatedly inside of him, Leonard felt Spock writhing on top of him between thrusts and realized the he, too, was discovering the feel of becoming the invaded. A hand was thrust between them, capturing him, and as he was brought over once more, the cock inside filled him. As their bodies separated, Leonard saw Jim reach for a towel and wipe the semen from his hand where he had brought himself over.

The remainder of the night was spent in brief respites of sleep interrupted often by caresses and kisses and sex, sometimes in the bed, sometimes in the shower, but all driven by the needs of one very hot Vulcan.

Part 6

Jim woke to the smell of coffee. He looked at the chrono and saw it was reading 0702. He hadn’t slept this late in years. Of course, none of them had slept much during the night, maybe two hours at the most. He rolled over to the man spooned against him. “Good morning,” he whispered to the black eyes staring at him.

“Good morning,” Spock replied. “Are you well this morning?”

“Sure, why wouldn’t I be?” He ran his fingers down the face.

“You made some serious decisions last night. Are you still certain that this is what you wish?”

“Yes, Spock. I have no doubts about bonding with you.” Jim propped up on his elbows and asked, concerned, “You’re not having any second thoughts, are you?”

“No, Jim. I have no doubts about bonding myself to you and Leonard.” Spock leaned over and brushed his mouth against the rounded ear.

Unbelievably, even after the night they had just experienced, Jim had his usual morning erection and was tempted to press it against his lover. However, he could sense that Spock was more at ease and calmer this morning. He knew that there were certain to be times during the day when the fever would overtake the Vulcan and Spock would need them to satisfy his needs. Better to wait until the drives demanded his attention than to excite Spock now.

“Hey, y’all gonna stay in bed all day?” Bones approached the bed with three cups of coffee.

They sat up and each took a cup. “You’ve had worse ideas,” Jim quipped. Jim smiled at the man in bed beside him, and then winked at the man standing before him holding the last of the three steaming mugs. The coffee was wonderful.

Sipping the hot, fragrant liquid, Leonard thought about their plans. “When are you gonna contact your parents? Do you think there’s any chance that they’ll accept this arrangement?” He was aware of differences between Spock and his parents, particularly Sarek, in the past. He was concerned that they would not embrace this choice. He knew in Spock’s heightened emotional state that their rejection would hit him hard. They had been lucky with the acceptance of their relationship in Starfleet, but Spock’s parents were a different matter altogether.

“As a show of respect, I should contact them immediately. As for their acceptance, although I do not expect their approval, there are always possibilities. Their sanction, however, is unnecessary.” He swung his legs off of the bed and walked toward the comm unit.

“Spock, do you want some privacy?” Leonard asked.

“No, whatever decision is made, it concerns us all. It would be my desire that you are present when I make this announcement.”

Spock requested an open link to Vulcan. Since this was not on a priority Starfleet channel, the connection would take several minutes to establish. It gave them time to shower and dress. By the time the signal came through that a connection to the distant planet had been made, they were all properly groomed. In his native Vulcan language Spock requested to be put through to his father. In moments, Sarek’s image appeared on screen.

They greeted each other with the formal Vulcan greeting and then Spock reverted to Standard. “Father, is Mother present?”

“Yes, Spock, I’m here.” Amanda appeared beside Sarek.

“Mother, Father, I have contacted you to advise you I will be making arrangements with the Vulcan ministry for a bonding ceremony.”

“Spock!” Amanda exclaimed, “You’re being bonded?” Her face broke into a smile.

“Yes, Mother.”

“May I ask to whom you are to be bonded, my son?” Sarek asked.

“I have chosen Admiral James Kirk as my bondmate, and I have asked Dr. Leonard McCoy to become my sko’tan.” Spock stated this in a very matter-of-fact tone. He then waited, looking directly at the screen, for the response from his parents. He was unwavering, but both Jim and Leonard held their breath while waiting for what seemed an eternity. Sarek’s expression did not change, but it seemed, for a moment, Amanda’s smile diminished somewhat.

“You are entering your Time?”

“Yes, Father,” Spock replied, revealing no hint of the turmoil that had begun to surge within him. “Are these gentlemen with you at this time?” Sarek asked, after what seemed a long delay.

“Yes, Father, they are with me.”

Kirk and McCoy moved into the range of the viewer. “Ambassador,” Jim spoke first, “it is a pleasure to see the both of you, again.”

“Good day to you both,” Bones added.

“Gentlemen,” Sarek looked at the three men on the screen and, without any sign of emotion, stated, “I offer you both welcome to the house of Amanda and Sarek cha’Skon. It will be our honor to receive you both into our family. Spock, from our house to yours, I bid you welcome.”

Amanda had turned her attention to her husband, as if waiting to see what his reaction would be. With this greeting to both humans, she turned back to the viewer. She was once again smiling, although maybe not as intensely as she had before, but a tear was beginning to overflow from the corner of her eye.

“Thank you, Sarek,” Jim responded. “I graciously accept your offer and I am honored to be accepted into your family.”

Spock looked to Leonard and he understood that the response was expected.

“Thank you, sir. I, too, graciously accept your offer and I am honored to be accepted into your family.”

Sarek nodded his approval.

“When will you be arriving, Spock?” Amanda asked.

“We will be arriving on Vulcan in five Earth Standard days, Mother. If you wish, I will advise you of the arrangements.”

Amanda looked to Sarek, who nodded his consent toward his wife. “Spock, we wish to take care of everything. Your father will arrange for the ceremony, and I will plan the reception.”

“Thank you. Your assistance with this matter is most appreciated.”

“Spock,” Sarek stated, “your companions will be welcome in our home. I am not displeased with your choice in this matter.”

“Most kind, Father.” Spock paused, looking directly into Sarek’s eyes, and stated, “Father, if you so please, it would be my desire that you attend me.”

Sarek raised an eyebrow in what the humans would swear was a look of surprise. “I would be most honored, my son,” he replied, and bowed slightly.

“Your hospitality is appreciated. You will be contacted upon our arrival, Father,” Spock stated, bowing his head as well.

“Until then,” Sarek acknowledged.

Spock ended the communication with the formal Vulcan closing. The screen went blank as the comm link was closed.

“But Spock, I don’t understand. I thought you said that only Jim would have the family right bestowed on him,” McCoy stated. Spock had advised Jim of the correct response, should Sarek welcome him into the family, but it had not been expected that the offer would be extended to both of them.

“My father has chosen to honor both my bondmate and my sko’tan with equal status, as is his right. It is quite rare that a Vulcan would choose to do this. It speaks very highly of you both. It announces to the Vulcan hierarchy that both my bondmate and my sko’tan will have position in his family, and the relationship is above reproach.”

“I’m very honored, indeed,” McCoy stated, with a smile.

“Spock,” Jim asked carefully, “does this mean that your father, your parents, have given full approval for this bonding?”

“It does seem so. At the very least, my father acknowledges my rights to choose whom I wish.”

Spock booked passage for the three of them to Vulcan while Bones prepared one of his famous breakfasts. He did not usually condone the intake of sugars and fats that these breakfasts contained, but with the workouts that they had been getting lately, he saw no danger in serving this type of meal. He was glad to see even Spock consuming several of the blueberry pancakes.

Once all notifications had been sent regarding their leave status, they decided to spend the morning exploring some of the hiking trails. It would give them some time to discuss the events at hand, as well as give them the privacy they may need. They packed a couple of daypacks with some basic provisions. Bones made sure the med-scanner was fully charged and packed before they started out.

They walked along one of the trails, lined on both sides with evidence of the summer's new growth, for about two hours, each lost in their own thoughts. Finding themselves in a lush meadow, thick with grasses, asters and other wildflowers, it was here that they decided to rest for a while. They settled onto a patch of lush growth, admired the scene of the white mountain peaks beyond, and pulled out something to drink.

Leonard was finding, however, that his mind was less on their surroundings, beautiful as they were, and more on the upcoming events that would take place on Vulcan. "Spock, do you mind if I ask some questions about what's gonna happen?"

“No, Leonard. You may ask anything.”

“Will the ceremony be the same this time? At the same place?” he asked Spock.

“No, we will not meet at the same location. Since my parents are making the arrangements, the ceremony will be either in a ritual site in their gardens, or at a site that is located near the Vulcan Academy of Science.”

“What will the ceremony be like? What’s expected?” Leonard was somewhat nervous about the process. Their last experience had been a nightmare.

Spock lay down and pulled Leonard down so his head was resting on his shoulder. Jim stretched out beside them. “Leonard, I will not let you go into this unprepared. There is very little that either of you will need to do during the ceremony. You will be asked a series of questions to which you will respond. I will have time on the voyage to Vulcan to go over the responses with you. A Vulcan priestess, possibly T’Pau, will meld us and form the bond. At that point you both will feel the burning and no other response will be necessary.”

“You call it a burning. Is that what it feels like? Heat?”

“No, it is a body being aflame with passion. You will feel my intense desire to mate.” Speaking of these things, Spock felt the desire rise once again in his body. He had fought against these urges on the hike up the trail, concentrating instead on the flora. But these men had to know what would be involved. He would not allow them to be unprepared for this.

Jim rose to a sitting position and looked at Spock. “Where will the mating take place? And,” he looked at Bones and back to Spock, “what will happen there?”

“There is a dwelling behind my parents’ home. My father had it built to distance himself and his consorts from my mother during this Time. We shall go there.” He rose to a seated position. His breaths were becoming deeper. Both humans had noticed the flush to the skin and the obvious enlargement at his crotch. His tone was becoming deeper and more agitated.

“Spock,” Jim whispered, “we can discuss this later if it disturbs you.”

“No, these are things which I must tell you.” He took a deep breath and continued, “By the time we reach the dwelling, I will be deep in the plak tow. The sexual acts will be quick and often. You will be able to read my thoughts and my desires, as I will be able to read yours. However, I do not know how much control I will have on pleasing you. During this time, I will have brief periods of reprieve in which to meditate.

“By the second day, I will be in kal-tai...the madness. It is this phase of pon farr when all reasoning is stripped away. All of my thoughts will flow to the two of you. It may be purely sexual, or there may be thoughts...related to suppressed emotions that do not involve sex at all. I will...not be able to control this release of emotion.” Spock had to stop to collect his thoughts. Every few moments he would sharply shake his head. Then, as if succeeding at shaking off the effects of the affliction, he would continue with his chin held high. The words were becoming difficult and his need for release was strong. “This will be the most difficult portion of the process for the two of you. There may be a great...a great deal of unpleasantness associated with this time. When a Vulcan is mating to another Vulcan, it is understood...that these are merely reflections of all emotions and thoughts that have been pushed into the subconscious.”

“By late into the third day, I will begin to have lucid moments. There will still be intense periods of desire, but...they will become more infrequent. By the fourth day, I will regain my logic. My thoughts will clear and that evening we will leave the place of mating. There will be a reception where...where we will be officially accepted.” He was unable to continue. His resistance crumbled as a crashing wave of desire rushed over him. His hand went between his legs to massage the ache. He threw his head back and groaned, as if a savage animal was gripping him.

Leonard unclasped the pants and Spock raised his hips so they could be removed. Spock lay back down and grabbed his erection and began pumping furiously. Jim came to his knees and grabbed Spock’s hips as he took the head of the organ into his mouth, engulfing both ridges, massaging the head with his tongue while Spock continued his assault on the shaft.

Leonard reached for the med-scanner and powered it up. Spock’s pulse was dangerously elevated, his temperature was up by 2.7 degrees, blood pressure up by a total of 19 points, muscle tension was off the scale and all of the other readings were either elevated or unreadable. He had seen these readings only once before. The day many years ago that he advised Kirk they must get Spock back to Vulcan, or he would die.

Spock’s head rolled back and he arched his back as he found the release he so desperately needed. The moans and spasms continued as wave after wave crashed down upon him. The volume of fluid that was released was such that Jim was able to consume very little. The fluid that escaped Jim’s lips coated Spock’s hand, groin, and thighs. Slowly, Spock’s body began to relax. He released the vice-like grip on himself and brought his arm up to shield his eyes.

Leonard continued monitoring his vital signs. They lowered somewhat, but settled nowhere near the level they should read.

Spock sat up. He reached for a napkin from the pack that was beside him and began to clean the remnants of the spent fluid from his hand, thighs, and testicles. He shook his head quickly and his body tensed, “I am sorry. That was an abhorrent display. I shall attempt to refrain from such behavior in the future.” His face showed the humiliation he felt at the moment. To lose control over his emotions in this way was disgusting to him. To make love to these men was his choice, but the thought of lying in front of them, letting them see him lose control, made him sick. Nausea began to overtake him.

Jim reached out a hand and ran it through the silky hair. The vulnerability of this man tore at Jim's heart. “My friend, there was nothing abhorrent about it. You have entered into a time where you must be satisfied. There’s nothing disgusting about it.” He leaned over and pressed his lips to the side of the flushed face. Leonard wrapped an arm around the tense shoulders and whispered into his ear, “Spock, I’m concerned about these readings. I’ll do anything I can to sustain you until we can get you to Vulcan. But whatever you have to do, any act you have to perform that will get you there safely, is fine by me.”

They felt Spock relax. “I am afraid this will not improve until we have bonded and I have passed through all that I must.”

“Then just hold on to us, Spock. That’s why we’re here.” Jim gripped both of the overheated biceps. “We love you,” he whispered.

Spock nodded. The nausea abated as he fought against the stinging sensation behind his eyes.

Jim handed the discarded clothes to Spock and he stood and redressed himself. They gathered the packs and descended the path back to the cabin. It had been decided to return to San Francisco that night. That would give them two days to make any arrangements necessary for their departure, and with the three days travel time on the transport, that would put them on Vulcan in exactly five days. Only one day to spare. The humans were concerned with the slim margin of time they had to work with.

Part 7

Exactly forty-four hours later, they boarded the Nicholas B, a Federation transport bound for Vulcan. The last two days had been hardest on Spock. His system was taking a beating from the strain. His controls were weakened from constantly fighting the pounding waves of desire that now invaded him several times a day. Just this morning, his temper had flared at Leonard when he was running yet another scan. Spock had grabbed the scanner and thrown it across the room, shattering it. Now, settled into their quarters aboard the transport, the humans seemed to sense that this madness was approaching an end. They were mistaken.

The next two days they seemed to fall into a routine, as unpredictable as it was. McCoy and Kirk alternated staying with Spock during the attacks of the blood fever. Each tried to give the other time to rest, each failing miserably as his time to rest came. As bad as the attacks were, Jim came to dread the periods when Spock was lucid even more. It was during those times that he would see the terrible humiliation reflected in the eyes of that gentle being. This man who had stood at his side, unflinching, in the face of the most powerful adversaries the galaxy had been able to throw at them, was reduced to this. Jim finally understood why Spock had begged to be locked away the first time he had come into pon farr. And this time was much worse than before. McCoy seemed to feel it was because the initial bonding was never completed, but the why no longer seemed to matter.

Twenty-four hours away from Vulcan, Jim was standing in the solarium watching the view port. God, he did miss this sensation so very much. Even now, he felt a pang of envy toward those whose life existed out here among the stars. He loved the life he was living with Spock and Bones, he just wished it could be out here. He had accomplished a great deal in these last months in his position as Admiral. He knew he had been instrumental in making changes in the ‘Fleet that would be felt for the next hundred years, changes that he could never have made if he was commanding a ship, but this was the life he loved. He had to remind himself that in a few months they would be out here again. Certainly not in the same capacity as before, but there would be periods of time that they would spend in space. He heard the door open. He didn’t need to turn to know who was coming into the room. “How is he, Bones?”

“God, Jim, I don’t know. Your guess is as good as mine. His readings are all over the place, and he hasn’t eaten anything since breakfast four days ago. Whenever I go near him and he is either violent or clings to me and sobs. His skin has become so sensitive that any touch is painful, so trying to help him with sexual release is out of the question. He has tried to meditate, but that has failed him. I finally did get him to let me give him something, and he is asleep for the moment. How in the HELL can a culture value its logic when the result is this madness every few years? I just wish there was something...” his voice trailed off. Along with the anger that had been building inside of him, McCoy felt useless in dealing with this. There was little he could do to ease the torment of someone he loved.

“Bones, you are doing something. You’re here with him, keeping an eye on him, doing what you can to ease the pain. And, you are on your way to Vulcan to bond with him.” Leonard just shook his head. It was not enough. He wanted to stop this thing that was tearing his friend, his lover, apart.

Jim slipped his arm around Leonard’s shoulders. “You’re exhausted. While he’s sleeping, let’s go get some rest. We’re going to need all of the strength we can muster in the next few days.”

He led Bones into the cabin he had been assigned. All of the cabins adjoined, but this was directly adjacent to the one where Spock was asleep. He palmed open the door separating the rooms and turned down the covers on the bed. They undressed and slid under the covers. Jim wrapped his arm around the compact shoulders and pulled him down next to him. They lay there holding each other, listening for any sounds from the next room.

As exhausted as he was, Leonard couldn’t sleep. He tried to move quietly, so as not to disturb the man beside him, but it felt as if every nerve was raw. The events of the last days, and the contemplation of what was yet to come, left little room for rest. Jim’s breath was steady but Leonard was uncertain as to whether he was asleep. Once more he tried to gently arrange his position to find some level of comfort.

“Bones, try to rest,” Jim whispered to him, turning toward him and laying his hand on his shoulder.

“I’m sorry, I should go get in the other bed. I’m gonna to keep you up all night.”

“You don’t belong in another bed.” He stroked the dark hair. “You belong here, with me, always.”

“Jim.” Bones pulled the man to him.

Their lips met in a tenderness that had been forgotten these last days, the tenderness that had been present until the fever of pon farr had begun to consume their lover. It felt good to feel the slow softness of a gentle touch.

Jim ran his fingers down the side and back of the warm man beside him. He felt his body respond to the soft nuzzling at the base of his ear. They let their hands explore and caress the flesh of each other, bringing each other to arousal in quiet affection. Jim’s hand stroked down to the waist and across the abdomen slowly finding its way to the erection. His fingers played up and down the shaft, spreading the fluid that was forming at the tip. He felt Bones responding to the touch by the sharp breaths against his neck. Jim felt the hand that had been fondling his nipple move down and find the base of his heat. The long, slow strokes up and down the shaft were soothing and arousing at the same time. Their lips met and they caressed each other’s mouth with their tongues. The strokes quickened and he felt McCoy shiver in his arms. He matched the strokes with his hand to the ones he felt on his own cock. Their free arms tightened around each other and the spasms began. They stroked each other to completion until each began to relax. Jim reached for a towel and cleaned them. Their arms cradled each other and within moments both drifted of to a much-needed sleep.

In what Jim thought were just minutes later, he was awakened by the comm signal in his room. He opened his eyes and tried to focus on where he was. A cabin...a ship...but this not his cabin, and not his ship. It took a moment to realize they were aboard the transport. He eased himself from beside the man next to him. When he looked at the chrono, it read 0618 Earth Standard time. They had been asleep for almost six hours. He slipped on his shirt and trousers and answered the comm.

“Admiral Kirk, Commander Spock is unavailable and there is a message coming through from Ambassador Sarek of Vulcan. He has asked to speak with you. Do you wish to take this message?”

“Send it through, please.” He turned to the bed to see McCoy already heading through the door for Spock’s cabin.

Sarek’s face appeared on the screen. “Kirk, I understand you will be arriving this evening. I wanted to advise Spock that all as been arranged. There will be an entourage that will meet you at the disembarkation platform. One group will escort Spock for preparation, and two members of our household will escort you and McCoy to our home. We will welcome you there.” The stoic face on the screen seemed older than he had seen it before. The face was certainly more serious.

“Very well, Ambassador. We look forward to meeting you in your home this evening.” He looked up as Bones came back into the room. Bones softly advised Jim that Spock was meditating. He looked back to the vid screen, “Spock is in meditation at this time. Do you wish to speak with him?”

“No, he is doing what he must.”

“Then we shall see you this evening.”

Sarek nodded toward the screen and the transmission was ended.

“How is he?” Jim inquired.

“Better, at least for right now,” McCoy shrugged.

“Sarek has made all arrangements. We will be met on Vulcan. I think this has hit Spock stronger than he had anticipated.”

“Indeed, your are correct,” Spock had entered the room behind McCoy. “I did underestimate the effects that this would have on me. For that, I apologize.”

“Spock,” Jim uttered, “how are you holding up?” There was deep concern emanating from his eyes.

“I have rested and was able to meditate for a while. It has helped.”

“Spock, I have just spoken with Sarek. He tells me that all arrangements have been made. There will be an entourage waiting for us on Vulcan.”

“We should be docking in about twelve hours,” Leonard added.

“Actually, in eleven point six hours, Doctor,” Spock replied. There was a coy look from the raised eyebrow. At least for the moment, he was himself.

“Eleven point six hours!” Leonard actually appreciated the fact that Spock felt well enough to contradict him.

“I do need to take this opportunity to advise you of the ceremonial rites, and the areas in which you will need to participate.” Spock spent the next hour explaining the ceremony and advising them on the correct responses.

“Since my parents have granted you each status, the participation will be the same for you both. The ceremony will last only a few minutes, but the meld and bondings could take much longer, depending on the receptiveness of the individuals involved. There will be...” Spock stopped in mid sentence. The humans saw the flash of panic on his face as the cycle began again.

Vulcans did not generally believe in a supreme deity, their culture was based on the honoring of those who had come before. However, Spock found himself mentally grasping for any being that could stop the rush of madness gripping his mind.

The next nine hours were spent with Spock fighting the demons that possessed him. Writhing in agony upon the bed until the covers and his clothing lay in shreds. Then, when the touch of the material on the bed inflamed his skin, he moved to the floor. The humans stayed by his side, trying to wipe the sweat from his eyes and cleaning him, as gently as possible, when his body refused control.

Slowly, a look of recognition returned to the dark eyes. The toll of these days had dulled the normally beautiful eyes to pools of misery. “Hold on, Spock,” Jim whispered, “we’re almost there.” Spock rolled onto his side and curled into a fetal position. His body shook from pain and degradation. Leonard knelt beside the curled, nude body wanting to cover him, but knowing he would not be able to tolerate the weight of even the lightest cloth on his body. He stood and watched in utter helplessness. His hands clenched in anger until the nails cut into the skin.

The humans busied themselves cleaning the room. They stripped the bed and threw the bedclothes, along with all of the towels they had used, into the recycler. This was a ship that was staffed by a mostly Vulcan crew, but they did all they could to rid the area of any evidence of Spock’s condition.

Spock was able to bring himself to a seated position on the floor. His hair was matted from sweat. Bones leaned down and said, “Spock, let me get you into the shower. We will be docking within the hour.” Spock nodded and Leonard helped him into the sonic shower. It was not as refreshing as water, but Spock would not have been able to stand the beating of water against his skin, even if it had been available.

They each took turns cleaning themselves, and by the time the ship began its docking procedure, all was ready. They wrapped Spock in a loose Vulcan meditation robe and led him to the exit.

As they exited the craft, five robed and hooded Vulcans approached them. Without a word, three of the men led Spock away. The other two stayed with Kirk and McCoy. One finally pushed back his hood and stated, “If you will follow us, we will take you to the home of Ambassador Sarek.” Kirk nodded to the man, and with that, they turned and left as the two humans followed.

The aircar left the transportation center and sped toward the city of Shi’Kahr. Leonard McCoy had been on this planet twice. Once he almost lost both of these men, the last time he was certain he had lost one of them. The jury was still out on this visit. A short distance from the docking station, the heart of the city became apparent. It was large and modern, although did not sport the towering buildings of a San Francisco or New York. The architecture was low and airy. Leonard’s eyes were only scanning the scenery as they moved over the city; his thoughts were elsewhere.

The aircar turned away from the buildings of the city and moved over what looked like private residences. Jim looked at Leonard and saw the lines of worry on his forehead. He smiled at the worried face and gave him a reassuring wink. They felt the vehicle move toward the ground and turned to look outside. The place they were approaching was a beautiful, large, low, sprawling estate that was a series of squares and rectangles spaced around a central quadrant. There seemed to be gardens beyond, but in the light of the low late afternoon sun, it was difficult to see. The car came to rest in front of the home and once the doors opened, they stepped out.

Sarek stood just outside the entrance and Amanda came to greet them at the vehicle. “James, Leonard, it is good to see you. Sarek and I welcome you to our home. Please, come inside.” She was smiling and gracious.

Leonard spoke first, “Amanda, it’s wonderful to see you again. It’s been much too long.” These two had formed quite a friendship when they had first met onboard the Enterprise. “Yes, thank you for inviting us to your home,” Jim greeted the lovely woman.

They followed her toward the entrance, toward Sarek. They stopped in front of the most impressive Vulcan. Jim greeted the man, “Ambassador Sarek, it is most pleasing to see you. We appreciate your offer of hospitality.”

“From my family, I bid you welcome. My home is yours to share for as long as you wish. Gentlemen, please come inside.”

They passed through the arched entrance that led into the heart of the house. “Your bags have been delivered to your rooms. Let me show you where you will be staying. You may freshen up if you like.”

He ushered them out of the main dwelling to another building that was connected by a breezeway. The feeling here was open. It reminded Jim of a hacienda he had visited in the southwest several years ago. However, this complex was made from stone, not adobe, and a sheer fabric lined the walls.

They were led into a large open room that contained a sitting area and a sleeping alcove. “I hope that this will be to your satisfaction,” Sarek indicated toward the room.

Obviously it was acceptable for him and Bones to share a bed. “Yes, thank you,” Jim responded.

The room opened onto the large terrace that connected the five large structures of the main residence. “Once you are settled, I will meet you in the courtyard.” He motioned to the arch that led onto a large outdoor area.

Jim nodded. “Thank you, Ambassador. We shall join you shortly.”

Sarek left the men to themselves. Bones looked around the room and out onto the courtyard, “Damn, Jim, this place is beautiful!”

“Yeah, it is. I would like to come here when we could truly enjoy it.”

Leonard walked to the floor to ceiling arch that led outside and noticed the glass could be slid back, opening the room to the outside. He remembered the last time he was on this planet. He remembered the hours he’d spent waiting in hopes of getting in to see Spock, and the profound disappointment when he was denied.

“Are you okay?” Jim asked gently, walking up behind him.

Leonard smiled. “Yeah, I’m fine,” he answered as he turned. “Just glad that I’m here with both of you, this time.”

Jim nodded.

Leonard turned back to the arch and surveyed the layout of the property. “I knew Spock’s family was important, but I never expected this kind of opulence! To hear Spock tell it, he grew up in modest surrounding.”

Jim smiled. “Spock has always had a tendency toward oversimplification.”

They unpacked what they would need for the evening and the next morning, and went to the courtyard to meet with Spock’s parents.

Part 8

“Ambassador, Amanda, you have a beautiful home.”

“Thank you, Leonard,” Amanda responded.

Sarek motioned them toward the seats. “Not being involved with diplomatic duties at this time, shall we dispense with formal titles?” Without waiting for an answer, he continued, “I perceived in our earlier transmission, that the voyage was difficult.” There was no expression of feeling in either the facial expression or tone of voice, however the eyes of this man showed great concern.

“Yes, quite difficult.” Jim was unsure of what details to go into. This culture set great value in what was not spoken between individuals. He did decide to venture on. “I think the intensity was unexpected.”

As the Vulcan sat down, he nodded once to indicate his understanding.

“Sarek,” Jim stated, as he settled into one of the chairs, “forgive any rules that I may break, but I do have some questions. To what extent are you capable of discussing this?” Well, he thought, he might as well find out now.

“James, you are unfamiliar with the Vulcan customs and you are the man my son has chosen as his bondmate. And, Leonard, you have been chosen as his sko’tan. It is my understanding that you both will be present with him during the bonding as well as the koon-ut, the mating?” He looked to McCoy with a raised eyebrow.

“That’s right,” Leonard stated, “We’ll both be with him through this. It was his wish, as well as mine.”

“Then, as Spock had requested me to attend him, it is my responsibility to answer any questions either of you may have.” Jim leaned forward in his chair and addressed Sarek. “I was with Spock the first time. There didn’t seem to be the intensity then as now. Also, he was taken by surprise when this came upon him. He felt that he had more time before this would affect him. Is there an explanation for why this has been so difficult, and mistimed?”

“I am unaware of any definitive reason. There have been men who entered this time upon the breaking of the disciplines at Gol, however, there are other factors as well. I can not be certain of the cause.”

“Other factors?” Leonard interjected.

“Yes, the incompleteness of the first bonding, the nearness of death on the latest mission and the recent choice he has made to explore his emotions.”

Amanda rose and poured each another drink. “Gentlemen, if you will excuse me, there are some things that I need to attend to. I will see you at the evening meal.” It was obvious she did not wish to hear of her son’s suffering.

They stood and agreed to see her later in the evening.

“Sarek, we understand that this is not a usual path for a Vulcan to choose. Are you concerned with the choice that Spock has made?”

“My son has made many choices that have been unusual for a man in his position. As my son, I have learned to respect that with which I do not always agree. You are aware that I opposed his joining Starfleet, a decision that I still have not come to terms with. However, in this situation, I can find no fault with his decision. I must assume that your reasons for being here are valid ones.”

Leonard turned to face Sarek. In a soft low voice, he replied, “We love him.”

Sarek looked to the man standing before him. “Indeed. I assumed as much when you were the ones who stood beside him once before. I chose not to be there due to the break in our relationship. That was an error on my part.”

Jim watched this man seated in front of him. The lack of emotions in Vulcans was a myth. This man felt deep emotions where his son was concerned.

“Sarek, what will take place? Spock was able to give us information regarding the actual ceremony, and after, but what of the time between now and the bonding?”

“You shall stay here this evening. We will have an evening meal and you are welcome to enjoy the house and grounds at your leisure. Early tomorrow there will be attendants who will come for you. They will escort you to the place of mating, and prepare you for the koon-ut. You will then be escorted to the place of joining, which will be held at the ceremonial site located on our grounds. Spock and his entourage will meet you there, along with the Reldai, who will conduct the ceremony and perform the meld between the three of you.”

Bones had a question regarding the information Sarek had given them. “What preparation? I thought we would just put on our dress uniforms and meet Spock at the altar, so to speak.”

Sarek raised an eyebrow. Was it possible that Spock had not given them this information? He looked at the men before him, wondering how descriptive he should be regarding the procedures. As a diplomat, he had discovered that the disclosure of all facts was usually not necessary. However, he was not dealing with a peace treaty, he was dealing with the men his son had chosen to be his adun, his life partners. Complete disclosure was most important. “Gentlemen, perhaps we should walk and I will show you where the ceremony site is located, as well as answer any questions.”

The three walked through the courtyard and past the outermost building that made up the complex. They emerged into a series of connected gardens, separated by rows of hedges. There was very strong Terran influence in these gardens; these were obviously not native Vulcan plants.

Sarek began to speak, “The attendants will bring you to a dwelling located at the furthermost end of the gardens. There, they will thoroughly cleanse each of you. You will then be dressed in either the traditional Vulcan robes or your uniforms; the choice of garment will be yours. They will escort you to the ceremonial site when the time for the joining has arrived.”

“Sarek, are you saying that someone will literally bathe us?” Leonard was not getting a good feeling about this.

“Forgive me, I assumed my son had informed you of the preparation. Yes, you will be bathed and rubbed with native oils from a variety of Vulcan herbs. You will be cleansed internally and will have a substance applied to keep you from being damaged.”

Holy shit! Was Sarek saying what he thought he was saying? “Internally?” Leonard asked in disbelief. It wasn’t that enemas were foreign to them. Considering their relationship, and the need to keep themselves clean, it was something that they did often. However, the thoughts of having some stranger give him a high-colonic was not his idea of fun.

Sarek began to realize how little these men had been informed of the process. “You must be aware that in this state, Spock is incapable of concern with your level of comfort. As a healer, you understand the injuries that will occur without preparation.”

He understood that even with the preparations they had practiced, there were times when ‘that certain area’ of his body became very tender and he would have to refrain from specific activities for several days. He nodded his understanding after carefully considering the alternatives.

They had reached the garden with the ceremonial altar. “This is the place of bonding.” There was a platform that held an ornate stand, and hanging from it was a gong exactly like the one that had been used in the last ceremony he attended. Then Jim noticed objects that made Jim’s blood run cold. The same type of weapons that Spock had nearly killed him with once before were in a rack next to the altar. “Will those be used for the ceremony?” “They are a part of the ceremony, but rarely used. James, I understand your concern regarding their presence. When you accompanied Spock at the time of his failed bonding, there was a kal’ifee. I am assuming that you do not have any intention of making a death challenge?”

“No, no challenge.” Jim could not help the nervous smile he flashed at Sarek. “Will T'Pau be conducting the ceremony tomorrow?”

“No, she will not be in attendance. There will be a Reldai, a Vulcan priestess, who will bond you.”

They had reached the building at the back of the gardens. It was very isolated from the rest of the property. The style was much the same as the main dwelling, but much smaller than the palatial main house. There was a terrace that led to the arched entrance. Entering the structure, the humans saw that it was a very large room that was obviously set up for one purpose. In the center was a large platform that held a thick pad and multiple pillows and throws. There was a corner that held a fire pot and mat and a wall from which protruded a long, wide stone shelf. In the back corner there was a partitioning wall, which blocked the bathing facilities from view. Light, even the dim light from the late afternoon Vulcan sun, streamed into this dwelling through the open areas in the ceiling and along the top of the walls.

“I understand that we will be alone here for four days,” Jim stated as he surveyed the dwelling.

“You will be here for four days, but you will not always be alone. As I have been chosen to attend Spock, it will be my responsibility to bring food and drink in periodically. Also, at those times, it will be my responsibility to make sure no one needs medical attention. As his attendant, traditionally it is my primary concern to see about his welfare, however I will offer either of you any assistance that you may need.”

They left the dwelling and began walking back toward the main house. “You will be coming in…during...the period of mating?” Jim asked. But he was thinking, sarcastically, that this was just getting better and better. He was certain that having Sarek see the actions that would be taking place would be very uncomfortable. He placed his hand to his forehead. He was definitely getting the mother of all headaches.

“Embarrassment is not an emotion that should concern you,” Sarek stated in a surprisingly soft tone. “Sarek, forgive me, but it’s a basic human emotion to feel embarrassment when observed while engaging in certain...private...activities.” Of all the things he was finding out, he knew that having Sarek walk in while Spock was fucking them was going to be damned embarrassing!

“James, I do understand your need for privacy. However, we are not speaking of a normal encounter. This brings on a madness that requires an unaffected participant to be present, someone to intervene should the activities get too perilous. It is not uncommon for a male to inflict injury upon the bonding partner at this time. If Spock were bonding himself to weaker individuals, there would be someone in attendance continuously. However, I do not believe there is a need for someone to be with you throughout the koon-ut. I shall request someone else to attend you if you believe my presence will be offensive, but be assured that I will not be aggrieved by any conduct I witness during these days.” Jim looked toward Bones who gave the slightest shrug of his eyebrow which, after spending these many years with this man, he knew meant, ‘whatever you decide, Jim, I’ll agree to’.

Looking back to the Vulcan he nodded his head and stated, “Spock has chosen you to attend him at this time. I’ve always valued Spock’s judgment and have no reason not to trust him in this matter. But, you understand that my hesitation is due to the fact that this is a same sex union...”

“Gentlemen,” Sarek interjected, suddenly acutely aware of the cause of the concern, “let me put your minds at ease. The experience of male to male bonding is not something that I am unfamiliar with.”

Jim stopped and turned to Sarek, stunned by this revelation. Before he could stop the words from pouring from his mouth he asked, “You have a male consort?”

“I have had several consorts, of both genders.”

“Sarek, I apologize. I shouldn’t have questioned your practices. You certainly don’t owe me an explanation.”

“No apology is due. I must assume from your question Spock has revealed to you that it is my choice to use consorts.”

“Well, yes, he advised us where the mating would take place and told us why this dwelling on your property exists. I hope you don’t mind. He was just trying to give us as much information as possible.”

“The two of you have been accepted as members of my skan. I have no secrets. It is acceptable that he has revealed this. Although she is my bondmate, it was my wife’s choice not to participate in the pon farr. That is her right, just as it would be yours to accept my son as bondmate, and still decide not to participate at this time. This madness is far removed from the normality of a relationship. I believe you have experienced this in these last days. Therefore, I take others. Gentlemen, this time is contemptuous to Vulcans. We wrap it with traditions of antiquity and do what we must to survive. Because of our disdain, this is not a subject that is spoken of openly. However, it is my wish that you both feel informed and comfortable with your decision.”

The group had stopped in an area of the gardens with benches. They settled themselves and Leonard decided to forge on with the questions. “Spock spoke of taking a kalogi servant. However, he explained that there are certain difficulties associated with that solution. Is that a common practice?”

For a moment the humans thought that Sarek had become angered by McCoy’s question. His expression changed from caring to quite agitated. “No, and I could not, knowingly, allow my son to be attended by a kalogi. The pain from the incompleteness of the union would be torturous. A mental release is as important as a physical one. Why would he consider such an act?”

Surprised by what, among Vulcans, would be considered an emotional outburst, Jim explained, “Sarek, the relationship between us is new. He was not expecting this now. Although we had discussed the fact that we wish for this to continue, we had not discussed bonding. It was his wish not to force this on us, and he had no desire to form a bond with anyone else. He said a kalogi servant was his only other option. It was only at our insistence that he accepted us for this bonding.”

“For that I am most appreciative. A kalogi serves only the purpose to sustain life. That is a path chosen only when all other possibilities are exhausted, logic has been stripped away and death is the alternative. However, I was unaware that this was a new relationship. The three of you have served together many years. Leonard, when you contacted me regarding Spock’s decision to cloister himself at Gol, it was my understanding that you considered him your partner. That event was two point nine years ago.”

“Yes, we served together and have been close friends for many years. However, we didn’t become intimate until just prior to the end of the original mission, and then only briefly.” He glanced at Jim, knowing this was still an open wound for him. “It wasn’t until the return from the V’ger mission that our relationship changed.”

“Leonard, may I ask you why you are not a co-bondmate? The distinction between sko’tan and bondmate is only in the depth of the bond and family status. However, as is my right, I have granted you each equal status in our household.”

“Spock offered me the opportunity to be a bondmate. However, I preferred to accept the position of consort instead. I have very strong feelings toward your son, more than I can express with words. It’s just...” he wanted to express this accurately, but diplomatically, “I don’t think I would want a bond that was a deep, or ever-present as the one he will share with Jim.”

“Leonard, with frequent intimate contact the link may progress as deeply as that of a bondmate. A sko’tan is considered a confidant or a partner. Intimacy outside the time of pon farr is a rarity.”

“I wasn’t aware of that. I sure don’t think Spock knows it either.”

“Due to our distance in the past years, I cannot stipulate to the extent of Spock’s knowledge in this area. With his first bond being broken, it is possible he is unaware of this. It is not something that we have discussed.”

Jim noticed the expression on Bones face. This man was caught somewhere between the extreme desire to be a part of this union, and sheer panic. He knew the fear this man felt. How many times had he heard Bones object to having someone ‘messing around’ in his head? He also knew Bones wished to be joined to this union. He leaned forward and said quietly, “Bones, Spock will understand if you choose not to go through with this. He will not love you any less.” He glanced at Sarek knowing that speaking of Spock’s emotions was probably more insulting than speaking of the actual bonding.

Leonard turned his face to Jim; his expression was one of determination. “No, Jim, this is something that I need to do. If it becomes a deeper bond than I had planned on, so be it. I think I could live better with the bond, than to never feel it at all.”

Leonard turned to Sarek, “Okay, I choose to be bonded as sko’tan to Spock and understand the possibility of the bond deepening. I’ll accept that possibility.”

“My son has chosen his companions well. My wife and I are pleased to have this addition to our family.” Sarek was offering his full approval to the union.

Jim smiled and nodded to the impressive man seated with them. Jim had spent very little time with Sarek previously. On the occasion that he was aboard the Enterprise, prior to his being injured and Sarek’s emergency surgery, other situations had come about to preclude long discussions. Even the during the two days spent together under the doctor’s care, while they were all undergoing a period of recuperation, the conversation between them had been strained. Most of the discussions during that time had centered on the differences in philosophies that existed between Starfleet and the Vulcans. Sarek’s staunch beliefs opposing aggression was the cause of a heated debate between them. At that time, Jim decided he had been right. The father was every bit as stubborn as the son. But Jim was finding that the apprehension he had felt about meeting this man again was quickly turning to admiration.

Leonard, on the other hand, had spent a great deal of time with both of Spock’s parents aboard the ship and had spoken at length with Sarek when Spock went to Gol. He was already comfortable with them. Well, as comfortable as one could get under these circumstances. It was still difficult to comprehend that soon they would be accepted as a part of this man’s family. McCoy mused to himself that in old Earth terms, Sarek would soon be considered their father-in-law. The three started back toward the courtyard. Stemming from his close relationship with Amanda, Leonard asked, “Sarek, you stated that Amanda has chosen not to participate when it is your Time. Should we refrain from speaking of this in her presence?”

“The subject is not forbidden when spoken between skan. As my wife, she has full knowledge of these occurrences and is aware of the depth of the chaos associated with it. Understandably, her human emotions are in turmoil. She is pleased that her son has chosen his life partners, however...” Sarek paused and seemed to choose his words carefully. “...her awareness of what Spock is going through is most difficult for her.”

“And for you as well, I believe,” Jim stated solemnly.

The faintest of smiles touched Sarek's face. “Your perception is to be commended. It is true that where my son is concerned, my controls are often in question.”

‘I know the feeling,’ Jim thought, but didn’t express this aloud.

“Where is he now?” Leonard had tried to steer his thoughts away from him, but the images of Spock kept creeping into his mind. He hoped he was not suffering the way he had earlier.

“He is where he must be. He will enter into a period of deep meditation that will last throughout the night. At the appropriate time, he will be prepared and escorted to the ceremony. Please, do not focus your energy on him. You will serve him best with rest. You will need an immense amount of physical strength and mental stamina in order to provide Spock with what he needs in the coming days.”

They had reached the main house. Dinner was served and the coming events were not discussed. The conversation throughout dinner, and afterwards over drinks, consisted primarily of the new long-range expeditions that Starfleet had begun, and Jim’s influence in the expansion of the diplomatic involvement. It was an endeavor that Sarek had agreed to become involved with. He was in favor of this move since he had long pushed to see a greater focus toward peaceful contact by the Federation. Sarek found that the more time he spent with these men, the more respect he gained for them. He had been aware of their reputation for many years, however, he had always viewed Kirk with a cautious eye. His exploits were known through the universe to be, at times, reckless and driven by emotion. He was beginning to come to the conclusion that what most in the diplomatic community viewed as recklessness was perhaps incorrect. ‘Interesting,’ thought Sarek, ‘this is a human who, for the most part, thinks logically.’

Jim and Leonard retired for the evening. Unknown as to whether it was fatigue from the events of the last days, or the unexpectedly heady drink they had consumed after dinner, they both collapsed into bed and were able to fall asleep quickly.

Part 9

Jim opened his eyes in the deep orange light. He was instantly alert. Bones was asleep in his arms. There was someone in the room with them.

“James, Leonard,” Sarek’s strong but soft voice reached out to them, “your attendants are waiting for you to join them. I am leaving to attend to Spock. We will meet at the appointed place.”

“Yes,” Jim rose and pulled a robe around him, “Sarek, thank you.”

“James, I seek no solicitations of gratitude. It is time for you to prepare for what is to come.”

Jim smiled and nodded to the imperturbable man.

Sarek nodded and left the room.

“You know, I could never get used to a place with no doors!” Leonard drawled, as he rose to get dressed. They collected and repacked the items they had used. They had been advised that all their belonging would be sent to the to the dwelling where they would be spending the next days.

Jim noticed the tremor in Bones’ hand as he reached for his uniform. He reached for the hand and held it, turning the man toward him. “Bones, are you ready for this?”

“Ready? Yes, I’m ready. I think I’ve been ready for this for seven years. But I don’t mind admitting, I’m scared to death!” He looked up to the gold-flecked eyes. “And you? Are you ready for this?”

“To have you and Spock be a part of me? Yes, my friend, very ready.” He paused and said, “Bones, I know what we’re going to go through the next few days will be difficult, but I have to keep reminding myself that it is nothing compared to what Spock’s dealing with.”

“We’ll be fine, Jim.” Although the events to come were disturbing, he felt that everything would be fine, eventually. This was the day the three of them would declare their allegiance to each other. The day their minds would be joined. “Well, let’s go get married!” He started to pull his hand from Jim’s, but Jim tightened his grip and pulled him close, pressing their lips together. For a moment they stood there with their arms around each other, knowing this would be their last peaceful moment alone for several days. They were escorted to the dwelling where the mating would take place. They were disrobed and laid on the platform structure and covered with a silken cloth. The only area exposed at any time was the area that each attendant was concentrating on at the moment. They were bathed and dried. Then fragrant oil was massaged into their skin from head to toe. It was very soothing and pleasant. While lying on their stomachs, fluid was pumped into their bodies and extracted quickly. It certainly wasn’t as traumatic as either man had feared. Sarek was correct; they were thoroughly, but gently, cleaned internally and externally. The last of the preparation involved a small amount of a foamy substance being pushed inside of each man’s rectum with a syringe. They were left alone to dress, each choosing to wear the formal Starfleet uniform, then led out of the structure.

Upon arriving at the ceremonial garden entrance they saw Amanda, accompanied by several Vulcans with whom they were unfamiliar. They were directed to wait at the entrance to the garden. They could see the altar with the firepot, which had been set ablaze. At the sound of bells, the humans turned to watch the path leading into the garden from the opposite side. Jim flashed a look toward McCoy. The gong was sounded as the party approached. The Vulcan Reldai led the procession. Once she had taken her place, Spock entered the area. He was in a light ceremonial robe, and Sarek was at his side. The sight of him took the humans’ breath away. He looked more relaxed than they had seen him in days. He was beautiful! The last of the processional party were masked attendants, two carrying lirpa’s, and two carrying the cases that Jim knew concealed the ahn’woon, the all too familiar instruments of death. Jim felt a weakness in his legs that he was unprepared for. It took all of his strength to keep from collapsing to his knees at the sight. The attendants motioned to the humans to join the wedding party at the altar. When they reached the front they took their places beside Spock. Jim stood to his right and Leonard to his left. Spock’s hands were steepled in front of him and where there should have been no hint of comprehension in his eyes, the humans could see the glimmer of recognition. Yes, he was indeed aware of their presence. Jim could feel the pull of Spock’s desire. It was all he could do to refrain from grabbing Spock and consuming him. The Vulcan Reldai took her place before them. Her powerful voice split the air. “Falikal! As it has been from the time of our ancestors we have come to recognize this joining of minds. These that stand before me have come to declare their intention to bond. If any challenge to this joining is to be made, let it be made now.”

Jim held his breath. When the gong was hit he visibly jumped. ‘No challenge! Thank GOD,’ he thought to himself. He flashed a look of relief out of the corner of his eye toward Bones. They were instructed to kneel at the altar.

The Reldai continued the ceremony in ancient Vulcan. Leonard glanced toward Spock at every opportunity, hoping to see something reassuring in those black eyes, but the face had become very stoic.

“James Kirk, you have consented to serve Spock cha’Sarek, son of Skon, son of Solkar, as his bondmate. If this is your desire, make your declaration.”

Jim rose and faced the Reldai, “I, James Tiberius Kirk, do present myself to the family of Spock cha’Sarek as bondmate of, and companion to their son. It is my wish to be accepted as a member of the honored house of Sarek cha’Skon and his aduna T'Sai Amanda Grayson. I have no other intention than to do honor to this family and their ancestors. I await this acceptance.”

“Sarek cha’Skon, is this man, James Tiberius Kirk, granted status in your house?”

“We grant honored status to this man and welcome him as a member of our house and as bondmate to our son,” Sarek replied, his strong voice cutting through the air.

“Leonard McCoy, you have chosen to serve Spock cha’Sarek as sko’tan. If this is your desire, make your declaration.”

Standing, Leonard turned to the priestess and stated, “I, Leonard McCoy, do present myself to the family of Spock cha’Sarek as sko’tan of, and companion to their son. It is my wish to be accepted as a member of the honored house of Sarek cha’Skon and his aduna T'sai Amanda Grayson. I have no other intention than to do honor to this family and their ancestors. I await this acceptance.”

“Sarek cha’Skon, is this man, Leonard McCoy, granted status in your house?”

“We grant honored status to this man and welcome him as a member of our house and as sko’tan to our son,” Sarek stated forcefully.

The priestess indicated for them to kneel before her. She turned to Jim. “Give me your thoughts,” she demanded. She reached out a hand and with fine, long fingers, located the meld points. She then placed her other hand on Spock’s face, her fingers exploring until all of the meld points had been located. Jim felt sharpness in his mind, pulling, pushing, and searching. This was more than a meld; this was a probing of every corner of his brain. He recalled incidents long forgotten, smells long since past, tastes from his childhood. He could feel the touch of his mother’s hand against his face, the smell of fresh mowed hay, the stench of a room on a long ago planet, the coolness of the arms of the command chair on the Enterprise and a thousand other forgotten sensations.

He was instructed, through the meld, to extend the fingers of his right hand. He felt them contact two warm fingers of his lover. In a spark he was not alone, there was another here with him. The other part of his being. He was filling and being filled.

//Jim,// this other being called to him.

//Spock,// his soul replied.

Warmth flooded the parts of his being that he did not know existed. Light illuminated the deepest corners of his mind.

//Spock, how have I survived so empty. I didn’t know...I didn't know. //

And the two minds found each other soaring, entwining, gripping, and clinging as if they had, for as long as time had existed, searched for the other. They were one.

Then there was another. Fighting the invasion, calling out for help. The voice that was Spock called to him,

//Leonard, come to us. We are here. //

The other voice gasped as if suffocating, //I can't find you. //

The voice that was Jim spoke to him, //Bones, we’re here, in front of you, reach for us, Bones, we need you. //

The voice that was Spock, strong and rough, demanded, //Leonard, come be with me, come be with us. //

And the other was there. Like heat, fire and light they were together. There was no fear, no pain, only belonging.

Then they felt the burning from the one named Spock, the component of their being that was holding them together. The needs, the want, the blazing of the soul for those that now resided in him. They felt the fingers that held the link withdraw, they did not know from which being they were withdrawing, but a thread of the link remained. A powerful thread, very fine but with a strength that could not be severed.

Slowly, consciousness returned. A garden...an altar...faces...names. Their thoughts cleared and they were standing. Words spoken in an ancient language that should not be understood, but the meaning was clear through the bond. “Declarations made and accepted, bonded in a life bond, inseparable. Parted but never parted, touching and always touched.”

Jim’s thoughts were clearing. He could no longer hear the thoughts from Bones, but he was still there. Apart, but still just a breath away. Spock was still with him. He could feel the warring for control and the losing of the conflict. He could feel Spock’s need for him.

“Bones,” Jim called to his friend as they reached the dwelling. The man was pale but the color was beginning to return to his face. “Are you all right?”

“Yeah, I’ll be fine.” He nodded. Sarek was still with them. “Gentlemen, I will take my leave of you. I shall return periodically with food and drink.” He turned and left the three of them together.

Leonard had gone to see about Spock. “Spock, can you hear me?”

“Yes,” Spock whispered roughly. He ran his hand down the face of the one before him. His fingers found the meld points and he fell into the disordered mind flashing with emotion. He pulled the man to him and captured the cooler mouth with his own.

Jim did not need the meld. Their minds were entwined together. What Spock felt, what he needed, was a part of him. //Jim, I need to feel you against me. Leonard, touch me. Feel my arousal.//

Jim moved behind Spock, laid his hands on the shoulders and pressed his groin against the rounded form beneath the robe. With his own cock straining against the fabric of the uniform, Jim could feel the rush of desire. They all felt it. He knew that nothing would stop what was going to take place. They could see, as well as feel, the need to have their bodies joined.

Leonard found the apparatus at the neck of the flowing robe and unclasped it. He reached beneath the robe and brought his hands to the protruding hardness. It was as if he was touching himself but the feeling was magnified through the bond. It was as if every nerve ending was seeking its own release. He gently ran his fingers up the silken steel shaft and gently touched the tip. His own cock began to spasm and he had to withdraw his fingers to keep from ejaculating. //My God, Spock. Just touching you has me ready to cum.//

Leonard brushed the shoulders of the robe off and it fell to the floor. Spock reached for the front of the doctor’s jacket and pulled it apart. In just moments he had his sko’tan’s clothes lying on the floor. He ran his hands over the chest and across the hard abdomen until he grazed the head of the engorged shaft. The sensation caused them both to gasp. Their breaths became short and heavy.

Jim rubbed his body against the nakedness of the body before him. He craved the feel of his flesh against the heated mounds. He removed his clothes and pressed his erection to the hot crevice. His lips and tongue tasted the copper/cinnamon flavor of the moisture dampening the skin on the neck and shoulders. His tongue trailed a path to the area behind the flushed ear, grazing that area where the neck, back of the ear and hairline all converge. An area that he discovered was as sensitive to this man as a brush against his prostate. Touching his tongue to the spot caused his own body to incinerate. The power of the link was overloading his sensations.

Spock turned in his arms and captured his mouth. Consuming and consumed. This sensation through the bond was as if this was their first time together. Each caress brought a shiver to all three. The heat from Spock’s fingers branded the humans under his touch. His breath was ragged against their lips, tasting and exploring his two lovers, each human aware of the pleasure that their individual tastes brought to their Vulcan bondmate. They experienced the hot passion and the need, and felt these desires crescendo.

Spock wrapped his arms around Jim and pulled him to the platform and began aggressively thrusting against the nakedness underneath him. He pulled one leg up and centered his cock at the opening. Pushing hard, he entered the tightness, engulfing his cock completely in one powerful thrust.

Jim felt momentary panic at the knowledge that there would be no preparation for this entry. He felt the cock find his opening and felt Spock push his way in. The muscles did not fight and there was slickness to the entry. He realized the substance that had been inserted into them was for this purpose. It had relaxed and lubricated him so there was no pain. He felt the hardness pumping inside of him, but through the bond he also felt the sensations Spock was feeling. This doubling and redoubling of sensations pushed them over. Jim felt the hot ejaculate fill him as his cum splashed between them.

Spock pulled out of Jim and turned to where Leonard kneeling on the bed beside them. Spock captured McCoy around his waist and pulled the doctor to him, captured his mouth roughly and explored it with his tongue. Releasing him, Spock turned Leonard so he would be on his hands and knees. The invasion was immediate. Spock grabbed the doctor’s hips and began pumping his full length into Leonard. It was only moments before his head rolled back and he groaned loudly as he released himself into the body beneath him. He pulled out of Leonard, turned him over, spread the thighs and engulfed the hard cock in his mouth and began an oral assault.

//Fill me!// Spock pleaded through the bond to Jim. Jim moved behind him and placed his hands on the mounds, spreading the cheeks and exposing the center of the body that was craving his attention. Straddling McCoy's legs he moved to the opening and pushed inside. With the three of them in contact it was no longer distinguishable as to who was penetrating whom. For unknown hours they continued until they felt the plak tow crest, then subside.

Sweat had poured from them and mixed with the stickiness of the semen released from them. All were in need of cleansing. Jim limped to the area behind the wall just in time to release the fluid he had been filled with over and over again. He turned on the shower and climbed under the sonics. There was some tenderness around his rib cage --he had expected that -- and the sides of his thighs, where Spock had gripped him, were bruised. There was a nasty cut underneath his lip due to a forceful assault from Spock’s mouth, but no serious injuries, he noted. Bones dashed into the area and rushed for the toilet with decided urgency. Rising from the commode he stepped into the sonic stall with Jim. But instead of immersing himself in the shower of light, he stepped to the wall, placed his back against it and slid to a seated position on the floor.

Jim knelt down beside him and brushed the dark hair back from his face. “Bones, are you okay?” There was no response. He placed his hands on either side of the face, “Bones! Answer me, are you hurt?”

He raised his face to Jim and rested his head against the wall, “No, I’m not hurt. We’re gonna to have to change those linens out there, though. I’m not sure I made it in time.”

Jim smiled at the man, “Bones, we’re going to have to change the linens, anyway. They’re soaked in sweat!” He didn’t mention the other variety of bodily fluids that the linens had absorbed in the last hours, including the blood he still tasted in his mouth.

“The only complaint I have is that my cock feels like it has been buffed down with sandpaper, but I brought along some cream that should alleviate that problem. What about you? Looks like your mouth is swollen.”

“A cut on the inside of my lip, nothing major.”

“I have something for that, too.” Bones struggled to his feet with Jim’s assistance and moved to where the light was at the greatest concentration. He was surprised that his ass was not torn up. “Amazing stuff, that Vulcan concoction. They should market it!”

“I don’t think I would like being this numb, normally, but it’s working great, so far. I just hope it holds out.” Jim stayed at Bones’ side until they were both clean. When Leonard exited the stall, he reached for what looked like a small sheet and wrapped it around his waist.

“I think we’re past the time of being self-conscious with each other, Bones,” Jim smiled.

“With the three of us, yeah. But what if Sarek was to come in?”

Although Jim was never uncomfortable with nudity, he retrieved one of the sheets and did the same. “He’s been here, Bones. There’s little else for him to see that he hasn’t already.”

Bones turned. “Sarek’s been here? When?”

“I can’t say. I wasn’t exactly wearing a chronometer at the time, or anything else for that matter. But I sensed his presence.”

“Shit! Flashbacks to my mother catching me and Allie Anderson with my britches around my ankles!” McCoy grimaced.

Jim reached for a fresh supply of linen from the shelf. “He put some refreshments on the shelf and has kept a supply of wet towels beside the bed.”

They walked back to the main room. Spock had knelt at the firepot and was deep in meditation. Jim discovered that when Spock was meditating, the bond between them was quiet. They had only been bonded this morning, but he already missed the link when it was silent. It was as if part of his soul was sleeping. He and Bones replaced the soiled sheets on the bed and Jim looked for a recycler for the old ones. There as none so he pushed the sheets into a large receptacle by the door. He also noted that the clothes that had been strewn about earlier were now missing. Not that they would be needed for several days.

Part 10

He took advantage of the fresh supply of ice, ‘wonder when that was brought in?’ and poured himself and Bones some liquid from a vessel. It was some type of Vulcan juice, but anything liquid to help them restore some of the fluid in their bodies would help. He took a sip and looked at the glass, it was very potent. ‘Juice, hell! This stuff could knock Scotty on his ass!’

He poured some into another glass and took the drink to Bones who had picked up several pieces of the fruit and stepped just outside the entrance onto the terrace. “Careful,” he said as he handed the glass to him, “I’ve tasted some of your hundred year old bourbon that’s not this strong.”

“Sounds like it’s just exactly what I need,” Leonard said as he tossed the green liquid down his throat. It burned all the way down. Burned was an understatement, this was more like molten lava. Obviously, there was a lot about Vulcans that was myth. Their reputation for not consuming alcoholic beverages immediately jumped to mind. “Now that feels good!”

Jim could feel the link activating. “Spock is coming out of meditation.”

Leonard looked toward the archway where Jim was leaning. “You can feel that? From here? I can hear both of your thoughts when we’re touching, but I’m not picking up on anything, now.”

“God, Bones. This feels so good! I never knew how alone I felt before. When we were bonded, it was as if my mind had just been waiting for his to find me. And Bones, he feels the same. Underneath this madness, he feels the same.”

He felt the strong arms wrap around him. “Indeed I do,” the deep voice resonated in his ear.

Jim turned to meet the sparkling black eyes. Spock was in a period of reprieve from the fever. His lips found the cooler ones and caressed them with tenderness. He tasted wonderful, but his lips were dry and hot. He needed to get liquids into his body. Jim worried that he was becoming dehydrated. So much so, that he forgot that Spock was hearing his thoughts.

“I will first need to shower. If you will prepare me something to drink, I will be out shortly.” Then, without words, Jim heard, //T’hy’la, my bondmate. Yes, I hear your thoughts, as you can hear mine. Your thoughts are blindingly bright to my mind, like a constant shower of sparks that has shed light into the deepest reaches of my soul. // Bones thought Spock was speaking to Jim, but he realized that Spock’s lips weren’t moving. He reasoned that being this close allowed him to hear their thoughts through the link, and he felt like an interloper. There was something very different with the bond between them. As if, given the opportunity, the two of them would disappear into a dimension of their own. Leonard slipped past them as he went back inside the dwelling.

But a strong hand grabbed his arm; turning him to face the dark, clear eyes. //And you,// moving his arm to circle the waist of his other, //No, you are not my bright lover. Your thoughts have as many deep colors as a Rigelian rainbow. When my mind is once again clear, I am going to spend the rest of our lives exploring each band of that volatile mind. //

Bones realized that he had been so concerned with the health of this man in the last days, that he had forgotten just how very much he loved him. “Spock,” he still preferred verbal communication, “I’m glad I’m here with you. I do love you,” spoken softly, but spoken aloud. Their lips met briefly.

Spock released them and walked around the barrier toward the bathing area. When he emerged from the shower, Jim had prepared him a glass of the drink and some of the fresh fruit. Spock took the glass and plate and sat on the edge of the platform. It was wonderful to have Spock, their Spock, with them again. Even though aware that this was just a short reprieve, it was still reassuring. “Spock, I thought Vulcans didn’t drink alcohol. You can’t tell me that is just fruit juice!” Bones couldn’t help ribbing Spock about this myth.

“Doctor, Vulcans do not normally consume beverages where the alcohol is synthesized from another substance such as grain or fruit. This beverage is saya, the natural juice from a native Vulcan plant.”

“So, you want me to believe that since this is natural and not synthesized, there’s a difference?”

“Indeed, there is.”

“In a pig’s eye! It’s still a potent, mind-altering substance that would put some of the stuff I drink to shame!”

“In that aspect, you are correct. I have often wondered why you would partake of such weakened substances.” “You mean the reason you don’t normally drink alcohol is because it’s too weak?”

“It does seems like an illogic waste of time if the desired effect is to alter the consciousness.” “Why you son-of-a-bitch! I always thought you didn’t drink because you had some holier-than-thou thing against mood-altering substances! Why didn’t you tell me it was because it was like drinking soda pop to you?”

“You never asked,” Spock replied in a deep seductive voice.

The fever was returning. Jim could feel it through the bond and Bones noticed the increased flush on the body. The time of reprieve was over. Throughout the next day and a half, there was no reprieve. The humans had at various times, when Spock was not claiming both of them, allowed the other to shower or collapse in total exhaustion for a few minutes of rest. There was little concept of time, just blurs of sensations. Glasses of cold liquid brought to the lips, but whose lips was unknown --wet rags wiping a brow, wiping the stinging sweat from the eyes --the face of Sarek--the sensation of wet cloths being rubbed against their bodies--unrelenting need for orgasm--searing pain against raw skin, but the body still needing more--syringes of foam cooling inflamed tissues--the face of Sarek. The period that Spock entered into Kal-tai was very difficult. Spock had been correct about the mental strain during this time. All emotions that the Vulcan had dealt with during the last years were channeled to the humans. They felt all of these emotions, magnified to the extreme as if floodgates had opened against a centuries old trickle of water. They felt the years of intense desire. Desire for them. The years he battled against this emotion using his logic as a shield, and losing. Every touch between them had seared into his soul. The disgraces of having his logic fail him and needing to quell the desire alone, usually in his quarters, occasionally elsewhere. They felt the pull on their groins as they saw the times he had hidden away and allowed himself the fantasy. The enviousness that arose with the many willing bodies that filled Jim’s bed. The intense jealousies he felt in witnessing Jim use his sexuality to seduce the enemy many times over. The fear that he would never be allowed to profess his feelings for this dynamic individual that held his heart. The years he had stood beside him, willingly serving him, wanting him, wanting to worship him with his mind and body. The pain, deep, searing pain when Jim rejected him. The madness of dealing with the illogical idealism of Leonard. A madness that would later turn to envy, then to adoration. The aching dread that he had missed the opportunity to approach this man on those occasions that Leonard had become romantically involved. They felt the constant hidden terror that harm would befall them, and the horror he dealt with when losing one or the other had seemed a certainty. The torment of the soul and finally the decision to allow his feelings to be exposed. The explosions of long dreamed desires, their feel, their touch, their scents had overwhelmed him. Beyond fantasy. Ecstasy. The pain of knowing that Leonard was at the gate, and the overwhelming desire to go to him, knowing he must resist. Lust, love, confusion, they all manifested themselves through the mental outpouring. The blinding fear, loneliness, disgrace and guilt that had been so overpowering that it had driven him away from Starfleet and to the comfort of the Kolinahr. The humans felt all of this, and their souls were assaulted in round after round of emotional and physical bombardment.

They felt the blazing heat radiating from the Vulcan sands, as he was looking to the face of the Priestess, but only seeing beyond. The feeling of familiarity, of longing, at the sight of the Vulcan sun flanked by the two glowing planets. Epitomizing Jim, with Leonard and himself at his side. There, under the sun, a flood of emotion, of love, overtook him, and a realization of the truth. There was only one place in the span of the universe that he belonged, and that was at the side of these men. The initial encounters on the Enterprise and his determination to refrain from involving these men emotionally. A determination that was ripped from him at the first sight of them. The desperate attempt to shut down all emotions. Failure...failure...he could not find his center. Slowly the strand of logic builds. The emotions are pushed away. His balance is intact and the emotions are cold. The coldness of space, the coldness of pure logic, the coldness of a life without emotions floods through him. Wanting, needing more. V’ger knows, logic is empty without the warmth of touch. Is there nothing more? So cold. Needing warmth. Needing touch. The hand in his. Jim’s hand. Warmth spreading throughout him. Answers found. Logic is only the beginning.

The mental release debilitated the humans, much more than the physical activities had. At some point the images dimmed and their companion fell into a deep meditative state. The bond became silent, but the images were still very present. Jim dragged himself from the platform bed and into the shower. His skin was raw from the constant pounding against it, but he paid no attention to the external condition of his body. His chest ached, his throat was sore and his eyes felt raw. He knew it was from the hours that he had spent in bone-racking sobs throughout the ordeal. He never understood how much pain he had inflicted on this man in the years they had spent together. He never understood how much this man loved him. Not until now. Standing within the shower of light, his stomach retched. Had there been anything in his stomach, he would have vomited. As it was, all he could do was stand there with his fingers gripping the stone, trying to restore some balance to his body, to his mind.

Bones downed another glass of the potent liquid. He wanted to have his mind cleansed from the scenes that had been shown to him in the last day. Despite the heat of the Vulcan afternoon, his body was shaking uncontrollably. He looked at the shelf that held a fresh supply of food and drink. He knew that he had no appetite for anything solid. It had been more than a day since either Jim or he had consumed any food. As a doctor he knew he should eat, as a man he understood that that was an impossibility.

He poured another glass of the liquid. He turned to see Jim emerge from the shower. He had a sheet wrapped around him and looked like hell. “If you look that bad after a shower, I don’t even wanna know what I look like!” He sat the empty glass down and headed for the partition. Jim perused the shelf of food, but unable to consider eating, he poured a glass of clear liquid. It was water, not the native water that had a strong mineral taste; this was the pure water he drank on Earth. Sarek had made sure that this was supplied for the humans. He had been vaguely aware of Sarek’s presence on several occasions during this time, but there had not been time to dwell on that fact. Sarek had wiped them with cloths and given them drink. He remembered the relief when more of the foam had been inserted into his sore body. It was not until this brief period of reprieve that Jim recalled Sarek being present during some particularly vigorous sessions.

‘Damn! There are just some things that do not need witnessing!’ he thought. While Spock was meditating, the bond was silent once more. As much as he found he missed it the last time his bondmate had meditated, this time he was grateful for the reprieve. He poured a large glass of the water and took it into the shower to Bones.

“Sarek has furnished us with water. Drink this, you need it more than that concoction you were downing out there.”

Leonard was beginning to recall the face of Sarek, but whether it was once or several times, he was unsure. He seemed to remember someone supporting his head as he drank. Everything else was quite fuzzy.

“I remember Sarek being here,” Leonard sighed.

Jim leaned against the wall, “Bones, he said he would be in and out. He also said we are accepted as a part of the family, and there are no secrets.”

“Well, there certainly aren’t any anymore!”

“No, Bones, that’s a fact. Between any of us!” Turning as if to leave, he remembered a scene that had been played out in their minds this last day. He turned and stared at Bones. “I never realized how much I’d hurt you, too. My God! I almost pushed you to...” his breath caught. “If anything...had happened to you...” A tear slid from the side of his eye and rolled down his cheek. It wasn’t the first he had spilled in these last hours.

Leonard left the stall and wrapped his arms around Jim, holding him, soothing him. Jim’s arms folded around Bones, clutching him, his balled fists stroking down the doctor’s back. “Jim, it’s okay,” Leonard said, his words coming out as a sob.

When they were both in control, Jim released McCoy and backed away.

“Jim,” Bones soothed, “are you gonna be all right? I know a lot of that was rough, especially some of the stuff directed at you. You gonna be able to get past his?”

Jim just nodded, turned and walked away.

With the sheets changed and the humans showered, they lay back down and attempted to rest, but each time sleep tried to claim Jim, the memories would rush in. In the more than seven years that these men had known each other, it was only the few weeks between the V’ger incident and the onset of Spock’s pon farr that had given them true peace.

It seemed, through Spock’s fevered haze, that the rest of the relationship was a constant blur of desire, pain, lust, torment and betrayal.

//And love, my t'hy'la.// The voice came from the bond, //do not forget love.// The calming, rich voice echoed in Jim’s brain.

//Spock, oh God, Spock. I’ve hurt you...many times over. Sometimes out of duty, but more often out of ignorance. Please...forgive me. //

//There is nothing to forgive, t’hy’la. I watched as you found pleasure in others, unable to express to you my feelings. // //I love you, I always have, you know. //

//As I have you. //

Part 11

Leonard was roused from a deep dreamless state by his own moan. The sensation of the heated mouth sucking on his erection was delicious. He raised and spread his knees and the dark head settled between his thighs. The mouth released him and moved to the pouch, licking and sucking the orbs. This was not the rush of hot unquenched desire, at least not completely, but a pleasuring from deep caring. The warm moist tongue worked a path up his body. He was feeling the sensation of the mouth and through the bond tasted his own saltiness. The bond was much weaker. He could feel the sensations, but the hearing of Spock’s thoughts was missing. Surprisingly, this made him sad.

Spock stared into the icy blue depths of Leonard’s eyes and traced the outline of the face he had come to know so well. His fingers touched against the meld points. Now that the fevered state was waning, he could only feel the emotions and sensations from his consort. Grateful that he no longer had to fear intense waves of the fever, he wished to explore this tangle of contradictions. Falling into the rich colors of this one’s thoughts consisted of navigating a mass of swirling, twisting streams with many eddy’s. Between Leonard’s soul and that center of his brain that controlled his actions, lay an abyss of emotional turmoil. As he was swept down the current of these thoughts, Spock found his mind being pulled over torrents and waterfalls. There were whirlpools and backwashes of lust, anger, fear, and love, all rushing forward toward a common goal of understanding. //Amazing what turmoil your mind goes through Leonard, to usually find the most logical answers. //

//And you, my love, want to start and stop with logic, yet beyond lies a vast array of deep-seated emotions. You’ve spent your lifetime fighting against letting your mind wander into those areas.//

Leonard was enjoying his explorations of Spock's mind. He could feel the neat ordered lines connecting the centers of information and reaction. He could feel the pockets of emotion that had held few connections to conscious thought. However, he could feel the new strength of the strands connecting these centers of emotions to the rest of the being held in his arms. Strands that, in more recent times, had been spun into a tapestry by the conglomeration of emotions involved with the feeling of love. There was a blindingly bright area to this ordered mind. As if staring into a quasar, it hurt to explore this area in the recessed corner of this brilliant mind. Leonard mentally avoided this area and began to focus on the body in his arms.

Spock saw the desire of this man to be surrounded. After days of self-gratification, he wanted to please his lover. He rose up and moved his legs to the outside of Leonard’s hips and centered his opening to the tip of the erection. Pushing against the head he impaled himself onto the shaft. The feeling within the meld was a feeling of being both the invaded and the invader. Each stroke that one thrust into the other brought a rush of pleasure to both. Leonard stroked the cock against his abdomen as he pushed his hips upward. The heat began to gather in his thighs as ejaculation was imminent. McCoy thrust upwards once more into the tight channel and his body jerked as he came inside his lover. The dark head arched back and streams of hot liquid spewed between them, both gasping as waves of pleasure washed over them. Through the bond, the brightness in his lover went nova. The origin of Spock’s blinding mental light was Jim. Spock leaned down and found the mouth of his consort, able now to gently suck and nip at the lips without the ravishment of the last days. The desire to continue was still strong, but controllable. He gently freed himself from Leonard and lay down on his side as the intensity of the meld faded.

Leonard felt that the greatest crisis of the fever had passed. Spock was pulling out of the insanity that had claimed him. That had claimed them all. He decided this was a good time to try to see if any permanent damage had been done to any of them.

He remembered the last time he attempted to use a med-scanner with Spock in a conscious condition, it was flung across the room. He rolled to his side and whispered, “Spock, I need to see if any of us are injured and I need to use the scanner. Will you be okay with that?”

The form beside him nodded his consent. As he ran the scanner over Spock he was glad to see that the bio readings were returning to normal. They were still somewhat elevated, but much closer to acceptable limits than they had been since this started.

When he finished with Spock, he moved on to Jim, who was now awake and sitting on the bed. There was concern in those eyes; he waited to see what the report was on Spock. When Leonard began to scan him, Jim waved off the exam with his hand. “I’m fine, Bones. How’s Spock? How are you?”

“Jim, I intend to check us all out, you included. I’d appreciate it if you wouldn’t give me a hard time about this. I’ve been through quite enough recently without havin’ to fight with you.”

Jim smiled and relented to the exam.

It seemed all recent injuries were limited to raw skin and a few bruises and cuts. This was a new scanner and had not been programmed for the men he was using it on. It showed injuries, old injuries, that a programmed scanner would have ignored. ‘My God,’ Bones thought to himself, ‘it’s so easy to forget what these bodies have been through in the last years!’' How many times had he patched them up? A variety of healed stab wounds, broken bones, ruptured organs, burns, severed vessels, and a host of other atrocities inflicted upon these beings over the years, appeared on the screen.

He saw where there had been recent damage to Kirk's hand. Severed vessels that had now healed leaving only faint scar tissue on the palm. Scars that Jim refused to have dissolved. Faint reminders of how he had crushed the porcelain teacup in his hand one night when he had realized what was important to him.

However, it was surprising to see that Jim had a cracked rib that was several days, possibly a week old. The bone was not displaced and it was healing, but it should have hurt like the devil with the recent activities.

“Jim, when did you crack a rib? It’s been recent.”

“It’s nothing, Bones.”

“It’s not nothing! You should have let me seal this days ago. When did this happen?”

“On the transport.”

“How?”

Jim looked over at Spock, then back to Bones. “We don’t have to discuss this now, Bones. I’m fine.”

Spock raised his head and turned to Jim. He ran the back of his hand down the side of the bronze face. “It seems, Doctor, that I threw him into a bulkhead on the transport.”

Jim was still not used to Spock being able to read his thoughts.

“Jim, I am sorry. I have been so concerned with my own needs these last days, I had not realized you were injured.” The anguish in the black eyes ripped at the heart of both humans.

“Spock, I’m fine!” Jim leaned into the hand on his face. “I haven’t given it much thought. It hasn’t been a problem,” he reassured the man next to him, taking a hand and brushing the dark hair away from the forehead.

“Well, all in all, I would have to say we escaped any major injuries. Even the rib is almost healed. Nothing to be alarmed about.” Bones felt he was actually talking to himself because the men on the bed had disappeared, as they often did, into a world of their own. He decided a shower and a walk in the garden was in order. It would feel good to leave this building for a while.

Jim moved to a kneeling position beside Spock’s outstretched form. Strong hands connected with his shoulders, massaging and kneading the tight muscles. Jim’s hands worked magic up and down the spine, working his way from the shoulders down the hard back and finally contacting the round mounds. His tongue traced a trail from the neck to the top of the crease.

Jim increased the intensity of the assault on the heated form, sucking and nipping the flesh with his lips, feeling the heat of the arousal through the bond. His fingers traced the crease until they contacted the hot pouch. He could feel the rolling of the testicles as he gently squeezed and massaged them.

“Roll over,” he whispered.

“T’hy’la, do you know what you are doing? I am still under the effects of the fever.”

“I know exactly what I’m doing. I’m going to burn this damn fever from you.” He lay on top of the hot body and his tongue began to trace the point of one delicate ear. He worked his way to the ultra sensitive spot on the long neck. He felt the body buck against him, rubbing their erections together.

Jim moved to tongue and suck each nipple, bring them to hard nubs. Taking time that had not been allowed these last days, he savored the body. His tongue moved to the abdomen and continued down the line of fur that traced a path to the base of the extremely sensitive cock.

When the lips nipped at the base of the cock, Jim felt Spock lose control. Jim knew that quick release was not what Spock needed, he needed to relinquish his desires to the fever so that it would pass. He engulfed the organ in his mouth and, using the muscles in his throat, massaged the area under the ridges. He felt the hands move to his head and force his mouth up and down the shaft. Jim fought to remove his mouth from the cock. He had every intention of sustaining the arousal as long as possible to burn the last embers of the fire from the tortured mind.

He grabbed Spock’s wrists and held them by his side as he teased the swollen cock with the tip of his tongue. He pried apart the thighs with his knees and settled between the legs. Rising to a kneeling position while still grasping the wrists, he nuzzled his own erection into Spock’s scrotum. He could feel how close this man was to cumming. As it had been these last days, Spock was ready for a rapid release. Jim was equally determined this would not be over quickly.

Moving his knees further under Spock, he was able to tilt the pelvis upward. He maneuvered his cock to rub along the crevice, stroking against the opening. Spock’s cock was engorged and aching for release. All he would need to do was wrap his hand around the shaft and give it a few short strokes.

Spock heard his own animalistic plea for release as it escaped his lips. Words would not form but the desire for his bondmates hand on his cock was very clear through the bond.

“Are you wanting me to touch you, Spock?” Jim sneered, passionately. “You are so ready to cum. You want to explode, don’t you? Well, my friend, it will not be that easy; not this time.” He touched his finger to the moisture that was forming. The cock convulsed at the contact but Jim pulled back.

Spock wrenched a hand free from the tight grip around his wrist and reached to grab his organ. Jim allowed him one stroke up and down the shaft before reclaiming the hand and pulling it away. He felt the full flame that was shining from behind the black eyes. “Yes, my love, we burn.”

Jim centered his cock to the opening and pushed deeply inside in one thrust. The hips attempted to buck against him but had no room to move with the tight position Jim held him in. Jim held his position inside the body and thrust only occasionally, allowing the Vulcan to incinerate with desire.

Finally, Jim’s body could stand the surrounding heat no longer and began to move inside the opening. A few hard strokes and his body began to convulse as he released his fluid. As Jim’s body relaxed with the last wave, Spock freed his hands and pulled away from the cock. He grabbed Jim by the shoulders and threw him to the bed on his stomach. With the speed of a cat he mounted the now outstretched form. He pulled the hips up and sank his organ into the tight orifice. He wrapped his arms around the broad chest and lay across the back as he ravished the ass with his cock and the back of the golden neck with his mouth. Grunting and groaning Spock humped uncontrollably against the body. He growled and pushed deep as he pounded into the heat and climaxed. Wave after wave of hot fluid filled Jim.

Gasping, Spock collapsed onto the body in his arms. The fire of the blood fever was cooled. He pulled free of his prey and began a gentle massage, with hands and lips, to the area along the side of his lover’s rib cage.

Standing under the sonics, Leonard began to consider the situation that had just occurred. Jim and Spock had a way of falling into each other that sealed everything else out. Within the bond, they fused together. It was difficult to find the thread where one started and the other stopped. It reminded him of the V’ger transformation. His thoughts were reeling. He finished his shower, pulled on a pair of trousers and walked outside as doubts regarding his role in this union began to grow.

Leonard found a patch of soft ground cover and settled himself on it. After the activities over the last days, it seemed a much better option than a stone bench. He stretched his legs out and sat there, propped up on his elbows, letting the heat of the sun radiate against his bare chest. His eyes closed and turned his face up to the orange, late-day sun. Contemplating. Was he here only because of some obligation that Spock felt he was owed? He knew from the meld that Spock wanted him. He knew there was love felt for him from both of the men inside. He also knew that it was different from what the two of them felt for each other. They truly did ‘burn’ in each other’s presence.

He heard steps behind him. Expecting it to be Jim or Spock, he turned to the person approaching and brought a hand up to shield his eyes. Sarek was standing beside him. He started to stand, but the powerful voice said, “Please, do not get up. Do you mind if I join you?”

“Sarek, no, of course not.”

Sarek gracefully sat next to Leonard on the ground. “I came to see if anything was required.”

Bones could feel the heat creeping up his body. He could not look at this man. Sarek had been witness to his most private sexual experiences. What small relationship he had shared with this man in the past had been based on respect. Bones did not want to consider what he must think of him now. “No, I believe that we have everything we need at this time, thank you.” He looked ahead, over the horizon.

“Leonard,” Sarek said.

McCoy visibly jumped when the man called his name.

Sarek continued, “Being joined to a human, I understand your trepidation. However, embarrassment toward me is a wasted emotion. I do not feel anything other than gratitude for the actions of these last days. The two of you did what you must, to save my son’s life. For that, I am most appreciative.”

Bones turned to look at him. There was sincere gratitude in his eyes. “Thank you for that. You’re right, I have always been,” he paused looking for the right word, “private, regarding such matters.”

“What I have witnessed is not so far away from the experiences that I have had. The greatest difference is the emotional bond the three of you have with each other. That is something that I have not experienced.” Sarek’s voice sounded almost wistful. “But didn’t you say that you have several consorts?”

“Yes Leonard, however, I am not,” he briefly raised an eyebrow and thoughtfully said, “in love, with my consorts. They serve a purpose, nothing more. Amanda is the receptacle for any emotions I allow myself.” Bones was filled with a new admiration for this man. “Sarek, the emotional bond is because of that man in there. Spock possesses the highest standards of respect, loyalty, and integrity. I believe it’s something he has in common with his father.” The doubts he was having regarding his part in this union were not addressed. That was something the three of them would have to work out.

Sarek, looking at McCoy, raised his eyebrows and cocked his head at the statement.

McCoy smiled at the man, he couldn’t help himself. “Do you have any idea how alike the two of you are?”

“I have never found any similarities other than the physiological characteristics associated with Vulcanoid beings.”

“Isn’t that often the way with parents and children? The more alike they are, the harder it is for each to see?”

A faint smile appeared on the face of the man, “Perhaps, Leonard, perhaps.” Sarek asked, “Are you all well, physically? I know you are a physician, however, there may be some specific treatments that may require a Vulcan healer.”

When Sarek rose from the ground, so did Leonard. “No, we’re fine. All injuries are superficial, and there’s nothing that will require anything other than local treatment. However, I feel that we’d be in much worse shape if it hadn’t been for your attention during this. Thank you, Sarek.”

Sarek nodded his understanding. Seemingly assured that all was well, Spock’s father turned and walked up the path that led to the main part of the property.

Taking one last look around, Leonard went back into the building to find Spock meditating serenely and Jim in the shower. It was time to prepare for their official introduction as Spock’s family.

Part 12

Their luggage had been delivered from the main house so they could prepare for their departure from the dwelling. It was decided that the three of them would wear their Class-A uniforms for the reception that was being held for them. Their uniforms had been gathered from the dwelling on the first day they arrived here and had now been returned to them in perfect condition, even Spock’s had been taken from the trunk and pressed to perfection. For this occasion, even Bones didn’t seem to mind the collar as much as usual. Cleaned and fitted out, they were ready to leave the cottage. It would soon be time for the reception to begin.

Jim surveyed the two men and remembered the night they had all dressed in this same attire and gone to eat at the Lotus Spot prior to the V’ger reception. The bursting pride he had felt that night as he walked into the restaurant with these men at his side, paled compared to the feeling he was experiencing this evening. Leonard noticed that Jim seemed positively edgy as they collected their things and placed them into the trunk and small daypacks they had brought along, all which were sitting beside the door for delivery to the main house later. “Jim, what the hell’s wrong with you?” Bones asked. He had seen Jim drop several items while trying to get his personal items packed. This was not a clumsy man. Something was definitely up.

Nervously, Jim pulled two small boxes from his daypack. “Spock, Bones, I know that giving of gifts is not a tradition associated with Vulcan bonding. However, before we left Earth, I had these made for us.” He presented each man with a box. Leonard took the first and carefully opened it. Inside he saw a small gold medallion hanging from a chain. Imprinted onto the medallion was an image of three stars, each joined to the other two with a band of golden rope. He looked from the present to the man in front of him, “Jim,” he whispered, “God, Jim, it’s...beautiful. The three of us...bonded,” he pulled the chain from the box and turned it over in his hand. On the back was engraved the term 'Tres Nunquam Dividuusum'. His breath caught as he looked to Jim, then to Spock.

Spock opened the box as he heard Leonard’s comment. He saw the medallion with its emblem, its symbolism apparent. This man, this bright lover, who had given himself completely, had presented him with a most precious symbol of their bond. He turned the small medallion over and he felt an unaccustomed swell in his throat. Written on the back, in ancient Earth Latin, ‘Three Never Parted’. Jim took the chain from his hand and placed it over Spock’s head. “I love you, I always have. You complete me. I never want you to doubt that.”

Spock stared into the bright gold eyes, unable to speak.

Jim turned to Bones, took the chain and slipped it over his head. “And you, you have been my confidant, my healer, my friend, my lover. Now you are a part of me, a part of my soul.” “Damn, Jim...thank you. Thank you...both...for making a place for me,” Leonard choked around the lump in his throat. Yes, he had a place in this union. Finally, he was sure of that. The three of them were three parts to a whole. Without him, Spock and Jim would lose themselves in each other. Jim reached under his collar and pulled a fine gold chain from beneath his jacket. An identical medallion was suspended from the chain.

Jim noticed that Spock still had not spoken and his shields had snapped into place. He realized that this might not have been such a good idea. He asked, “Spock, are you all right with me giving you this? I mean...have I broken any rules?”

“No,” Spock whispered. “I am pleased. I would, if you do not mind, like to speak to the two of you regarding this, and all that has transpired.” He walked to the platform bed, turned and sat down. He reached down and caressed the small medallion between his thumb and fingers. Looking back up he asked, “May I have just a few minutes before we leave?” Jim warily responded to the question, “Spock, you may have as long as you like. What is it?”

“I am unsure of how to adequately express my feelings, verbally. Even with our recent relationship, I find it unfamiliar to speak of emotions. However, at this time, I feel the necessity to clarify these to you both. I am concerned that the mental release during this time has left some aspects unexplained.”

The humans were unsure of what was to come, but the seriousness in the tone was not exactly reassuring. They waited in silence.

“I spent my life alone. I always knew it would be so. I did not belong in the human world of my mother; neither did I find endorsement among my peers on Vulcan. Starfleet was a refuge for me. I could be accepted for my capabilities and it was assumed that, being Vulcan, I preferred a life of privacy and solitude. That was satisfactory for me. “Then one day a young, brash, illogical, over-confident, emotional being came into my life as my commanding officer, and he disrupted all that I had sought to achieve. From the first moment I saw him, he took my breath away. Jim, in the time that it takes to blink, you managed to tear down all of the barriers that I had spent my life building. I quickly decided that this was completely illogical and I foolishly thought that I could ignore these new emotions.

“However, within days, another individual invaded my territory. He was to be our Chief Medical Officer, and my being in the science department meant that I would have to work closely with him. He managed to point out every flaw in my ordered way of thinking and forced me to deal with these most illogical, emotional humans differently. The two of you, together, then proceeded to introduce me to anger, loyalty, resentment, humor, envy, faith, fear and lust. In other words, gentlemen,” he raised his eyebrow, “love.

“Leonard, you once told me that you felt sorry for me because I could not feel this emotion of love. The ecstasy and the misery associated with it. What I could not tell you, at that time, was that I was already well versed in the pitfalls of that condition because I was already in love with the two of you. I found that where I could burn up in the presence of Jim, you were my anchor.

“I am very proud. Yes, I know, pride is an emotion that we Vulcans do not readily admit to, however, I am most proud to present the two of you as my family this evening. And this...” he held the medallion out from his chest, “will forever be a symbol of that which I feel.”

A short time later they left the cottage behind. Jim walked between the two men as they walked the path leading to the main residence.

Spock stopped and looked toward the horizon where the deep orange sun of Vulcan hung just prior to setting. The last time he had contemplated this orange orb had been on the sands of Gol. Even in his ordered mind, it was hard to believe that had just been over three months ago. He looked to Jim, and beside him, Leonard. He touched his hand to the spot where a small gold medallion rested beneath his uniform. There was now order to his universe.

“Yes, Spock, this is as it should be,” Jim whispered to him.

“Yes, Jim, indeed it is.”

As they turned to walk away together, Jim leaned toward Leonard and said, smiling, “Bones, some day you just gotta tell us the story about Allie Anderson and getting caught with your britches down!”

>Finis<