Betrayal and Forgiveness Part Five

McCoy slowly put his drink down on the small table in front of him, and looked up at the Vulcan. He was troubled greatly about what he had said. You could see it in his posture, he looked tired and not himself. Granted, having your captain tell you that he's in love with you can do that.

Spock had said the words, and waited for McCoy to say something. The silence was long and drawn out. Finally the doctor spoke.

"Nightmares, Spock, are a very common occurrence among us Humans. You are saying you don't dream and have never experienced a moving memory in your mind, something flashing before your eyes." McCoy answered curiously.

Spock stared at him, his brow showing more emotion than words could.

"Until now, doctor. After a long period of physical and mental activity we need to meditate. It is a daily ritual where we analyze the thoughts, and experiences that we have collected throughout the day. Once we are satisfied that we have viewed the contents in our mind, we discard the mundane, the unimportant. What is left is a greater knowledge of oneself. But it does occur on occasion, that one session of deep thought, is not enough. We need more time to analyze a particular event that has troubled us."

Doctor McCoy listened attentively to what the science officer was saying. It made sense. Humans don't always take the time to fully understand a certain event, a heated argument, a certain look, misplaced anger. Perhaps, if they did, instead of becoming hostile when the event occurs they would be able to deal with its onslaught better. Now, McCoy was curious to know what had plagued the alien before him.

"And something has troubled you Spock?" McCoy answered waiting anxiously for a response.

"Indeed. I have experienced what you humans call nightmares. I believe it became apparent not too long after the events of Psi 2000. I keep seeing images, hearing sounds, and I cannot understand what they mean. I have meditated but the images and sounds have pierced through my safe place. A place I go to reflect, and gain understanding. I can no longer go there because the nightmares follow me." Spock responded sadly.

"Can you describe the last one that occurred?" McCoy asked trying to help.

Spock straightened his long body. He began to pace which was so uncommon to see him do.

"The last one that transpired was just before I came here to see you. It is always the same. It is repetitive, and spills over into my wakeful days now. I see...." Spock stopped in mid sentence when the image again played in front of him. He never moved.

McCoy stood there in shock, seeing the Vulcan's expression change to one of horror. What was he seeing?

"What is it Spock? What do you see?" The doctor asked pleading for an answer.

"I see, I see..the captain. And he is in grave danger."