Picture Perfect

Chapter 2

As Spock approached the group, shocked gasps and remarks could be heard. Some commented on the Captain's unfortunate state, some in awe of the brutality Spock had shown in defeating the beast. A nurse, who had beamed down with them, pulled out their tricorder to examine Jim's wounds. For reasons he could not explain, he suddenly felt a twinge of anger at the nurse getting so close to Jim. He knew it was necessary for them to do their job, especially given Jim's state, but even still, he could not help but feel slightly overprotective.

No, he wasn't being overprotective, he had a reason to feel this way. It was simply because he did not want to see Jim hurt again, that was all. But why would a nurse hurt the Captain? This person was obviously no threat to him; quite the opposite actually. His logical brain went in circles trying to rationalize this odd behaviour and seemingly unprovoked flair of emotions.

Spock's internal debate was interrupted by the nurse's voice, breaking through his thoughts. "Commander Spock, Captain Kirk's injuries are severe. We need to get him back to the ship for immediate medical attention."

Spock nodded, his gaze still fixed on Kirk's unconscious form. "Agreed. Prepare a stretcher."

As the nurse and two ensigns mobilized, Spock couldn't shake the feeling of unease that lingered within him. It was irrational, he knew, yet he couldn't help but feel a sense of responsibility for Kirk's safety, heightened by the events of their recent encounter.

Once Kirk was secured on the stretcher, Spock took the lead, guiding the team back towards the coordinates where they had beamed down. However, as they reached the designated spot, Spock's heart sank as he realized their communicators were not functioning.

"Communications are down," he announced, his voice tinged with irritation. "We'll have to find an alternate route back to the ship."

The medical personnel exchanged worried glances but followed Spock's lead as he led them through the dense forest, searching for a way to reach the Enterprise. With each passing moment, Spock's worry for Kirk's well-being grew, fueling his determination to ensure they returned safely to the ship.

Suddenly, a series of tremors shook the ground beneath them, causing the group to stumble. Spock quickly steadied Kirk's stretcher, his mind racing as he assessed the situation. It became apparent that the planet was not as stable as they had initially believed, and they needed to find shelter quickly before the situation escalated further.

"Stay close," Spock instructed, his voice firm as he surveyed their surroundings. "We need to find shelter before it's too late."

He pulled out his tricorder once again, which was surprisingly still functioning given that it had been in his bag when he'd thrown it aside to fight. He scanned the readings quickly, noting a large cave nearby, much closer than the settlement. Even if they were to try to reach the settlement, they had no idea what they would be met with. It was not a risk he was willing to take; Kirk's condition was critical and he could not bear to- Wait, no. That is illogical. Jim was his captain, not his mate, he had no reason to be so clingy.

Spock shook his head, attempting to push aside the irrational thoughts that threatened to cloud his judgment. His duty as first officer was clear—to ensure the safety and well-being of the entire landing party, not just Captain Kirk. Yet, despite his efforts to remain focused solely on the task at hand, he couldn't ignore the persistent worry gnawing at him.

"Commander Spock, what are your orders?" one of the medical officers asked, snapping Spock out of his internal struggle. How odd, he was usually much more diligent with his decision-making. His mind was wandering far too much as of late.

"We will seek shelter in a cave approximately 0.24 miles from here," Spock replied, keeping a nonchalant facade. "It appears to be our best option for now."