The Captain's Log explains that they are en-route to Makus III, with
a cargo of medical supplies. The log explains that their course will take them past Murasaki
312, a quasar-like formation. It is vague and undefined, and it is a priceless opportunity for
scientific research. The captain explains that on board is Galactic High Commissioner Ferris,
overseeing the delivery of medicines to Makus III...
On the Bridge, Commissioner Ferris enters and
remains in the Turbolift. Captain Kirk contacts Spock, who is in Shuttlecraft Galileo and tells
him to stand-by. Captain Kirk goes and checks on a control, as Ferris enters the Bridge fully.
He reminds Kirk that he is opposed to this delay as he says that Kirk's mission is to deliver
the medical supplies to Makus III for their delivery to the New Paris colonies. As Kirk
approaches Ferris, he says no problem. He adds that he reminds the commissioner that he has
standing orders to investigate all quasars and quasar-like formation wherever they may be
encountered.
He says that Makus III is three days away and that
the rendezvous won't take place for another five days. Ferris tells Kirk that he doesn't like to
take chances. The plague on New Paris is running out of control and he says that they must get
those drugs there on time. Kirk says no problems, as he goes to his command seat. He soon
contacts Spock and tells him that all systems are cleared for take-off. In the Shuttlebay, the
Shuttlecraft Galileo spins around on the turn table, ready for launch. In the shuttlecraft,
Commander Spock pilots the shuttle, while an officer named Latimer navigates. As Spock presses
the controls, he tells the crew to power up. He soon reports that all the instruments are
activated and that all readings are normal. On the Bridge, Captain Kirk orders Spock to launch
the shuttlecraft and the shuttlecraft clears the ship.
As the Shuttlecraft Galileo heads for Murasaki 312,
inside the shuttlecraft Yeoman Mears checks in on their progress. As she works on a console, she
tells her crewmates that the readings are normal; acceleration is normal, and phase one
separation is normal. Mr. Spock then asks Mr. Latimer, the navigator, for a course reading. As
Mr. Latimer reads the chart, he says three point seven, but then, he is confused, as the
readings go haywire. Mr. Spock orders Latimer to make up his mind, but Latimer says that he
can't. He explains that the instruments have gone all crazy. Behind Spock and Latimer, a science
officer called Boma tells the pair that it's just to be expected. He says that quasars are
extremely disruptive, just how much they don't know. Spock says that they are considerably
disruptive. Soon, Yeoman Mears tells Spock that radiation is increasing.
As the Galileo is being drawn into the quasar,
Spock orders Latimer to stop forward momentum. As Latimer hits a control, he reports that he
can't, as nothing happens. Spock then tries and contact the Enterprise for assistance. All he
gets in response is static and Boma recognizes it as ionic interference. Dr. McCoy, sitting
behind Boma, says that they're being drawn into the Murasaki. Spock continues to send out a
mayday signal to the Enterprise. Spock tells the Enterprise that they are out of control and
being drawn into the heart of Murasaki 312 and is being hit by violent radiation on the outer
hull. He says that their course is three point two five...
Back on the Enterprise, Kirk asks Uhura if she has
anything on the Galileo. Uhura says that she has nothing clear, their last message read that
they were being pulled off course. Kirk orders Sulu to get a fix on the Galileo, but Sulu says
that he can't, as he's getting a mass of readings he's never seen before. He adds that nothing
makes sense. Kirk goes to the science station and turns on the computer. The computer reports
that there is negative ionic concentration; one-point-six-four times ten to the ninth power
meters; radiation wavelengths at three hundred and seventy angstroms and harmonics are upward
along the entire spectrum. Commissioner Ferris soon asks Kirk what's the problem.
As Kirk heads back to his command seat, he tells
the commissioner that the Murasaki 312 has completely ionized this entire sector. He says that
none of their instruments work. As Kirk takes his seat, Kirk tells Commissioner Ferris that
there are at least four complete systems within the immediate vicinity. He adds that out there
is a twenty-four foot shuttle that is off course and out of control. He says that this is
similar to finding a needle in a haystack, only that it's child's play...
------
The Captain's Log explains that the electromagnetic phenomenon known
as Murasaki 312 whirls about like some angry blight in space. He says that it is a depressive
reminder that seven of his shipmates have not been heard from. Equally bad is that the
phenomenon has rendered all their searching systems useless. Without them, they are blind and
almost helpless...
On the Enterprise, a yeoman delivers coffee to both
Captain Kirk and Commissioner Ferris. As they take their drinks, Ferris angrily reminds Kirk
that he was opposed to this from the very beginning. Their mission to deliver the medicines to
Makus III is of the highest priority. Kirk says that he is aware of that and adds that he has
certain scientific duties that he must attend to and investigating the Murasaki 312 is one of
them. Ferris angrily reminds the captain that he's lost his crew. A calm Kirk tells Ferris that
they have two days to find them. A surprised Ferris tells Kirk that two days isn't enough to
find them in all that muck. Kirk then asks Ferris what would he have them do, turn around and
leave them there. Ferris reminds him that he shouldn't have sent them out in the first place.
Soon, Lt. Uhura comes to break the tension of the
two senior officers. She tells the captain that she has found a planet capable of supporting
human life, type M with oxygen, nitrogen atmosphere. She says that it's listed as Taurus II and
previously unexplored. Uhura adds that due to their equipment malfunction, they have concluded
that the planet is about dead center of the Murasaki effect. Kirk thanks Uhura and soon orders
Mr. Sulu to set a course for Taurus II.
On the planet Taurus II, Shuttlecraft Galileo has
crash-landed. Inside the Galileo, everyone is sprawled on the ground and nursing their wounds.
Dr. McCoy is the first one to regain his consciousness and immediately starts checking on the
passengers, starting with Gaetano. McCoy asks Gaetano if he's all right and Gaetano says that
he's all right. McCoy then goes to Scotty, who simply shoo him away. McCoy goes to Boma, who is
nursing a bloody nose and asks him if he's all right. Boma tells McCoy that that's what he calls
a rough ride. Before helping Boma, McCoy goes to Yeoman Mears and asks her if she's all right.
Mears simply states that she has a bump on her head, and both Scotty and McCoy help her to her
seat.
Latimer then asks them what happened. As Boma
responds, McCoy assists him with his bloody nose. Boma says that he can't be sure, but he
guesses that the magnetic potential of the Murasaki was so powerful, that as they gathered
speed it grew geometrically, and hence the Murasaki effect shot them down like a projectile. Mr.
Spock says that Boma's evaluation seems reasonable. Mr. Scott goes to Spock at the pilot's
console and says what a mess. Mr. Spock reminds Scotty that picturesque descriptions will not
mend broken circuits and he believes that he has his work cut out for him. Spock then tries to
contact the Enterprise, without much luck. Scott then tells Spock that he doesn't really expect
an answer from them, but Spock tells him that he expects nothing and that it is only logical to
try all the alternative.
As Spock goes to the back, he asks McCoy to get a
reading on the atmosphere. As McCoy scans the atmosphere with his tricorder, he tells them the
following facts on the atmosphere; McCoy informs Spock that there's partial pressure of oxygen,
seventy millimeters of mercury and one-hundred forty of nitrogen. He says that the atmosphere is
breathable if they're not running in competition. Unimpressed with McCoy's descriptive facts,
Spock reminds the good doctor to just give him the facts. Heeding Spock's advice, McCoy further
reports that there is traces of argon, neon and krypton, all within acceptable quantities. Not
heeding Spock's advice, McCoy adds that he wouldn't recommend this place as a holiday resort.
Spock simply tells McCoy that his objections are
duly noted and wonders if Yeoman Mears is recording this. Yeoman Mears answers of course she is
and shows Spock her tricorder. Spock soon orders Mr. Scott to take a survey of the damage of the
shuttlecraft. Scotty, in a ribbing manner, tells Spock that that's logical and starts working on
the consoles. Spock soon tells the remaining crew that they should clear out to let Mr. Scott
work on the shuttlecraft. He orders Latimer and Gaetano to arm themselves and scout out the
planet, keeping in constant visual with the ship. Latimer acknowledges Spock, as Gaetano
retrieves the phasers from the weapons compartment. Latimer and Gaetano leave the ship to begin
their scouting duties.
After Latimer and Gaetano leave the ship, McCoy
goes to Spock for a one-on-one conversation. McCoy asks Spock what their chances are of
contacting the Enterprise. Spock replies to McCoy that at their current conditions, extremely
poor. Dr. McCoy wonders if the Enterprise will be looking for them. Spock reminds the doctor
that if the ionization effect is as widespread as he believes it to be, they'll be looking for
them without instrumentation and by visual contact only. He says that on those terms, this is a
very large planet. McCoy then thinks that Spock believe that they won't find them. Spock says
that not as long as they're grounded. He tells the doctor that they may be here for a very long
time.
The Enterprise orbits Taurus II to begin the search
for the missing crewmembers. On the Bridge, Lt. Uhura tries to contact the shuttlecraft with no
luck. Captain Kirk goes to Lt. Sulu at the helm and asks him if he can scan the planet. Sulu
informs the captain that the scanners are totally inoperative and he gets no readings at all.
Kirk asks him if he's tried tying into the auxiliary power supply and Sulu responds with yes,
and adds that he gets the same results. Kirk goes to his command chair and contacts the
Transporter Room. He asks the transporter chief if the transporters are beaming up yet. The
transporter chief says not one-hundred percent. The chief adds that they beamed down some inert
material and it came back in a dissociated condition. He says they shouldn't dare try it with
people. Kirk orders the transporter chief to keep trying.
After contacting the Transporter Room, the captain
contacts the Flight Deck. Kirk orders Flight Deck to prepare Shuttlecraft Columbus for immediate
exit, to begin search of the planet's surface and to correlate their results with Mr. Sulu.
After contacting the Flight Deck, Kirk goes to Uhura again and asks her if she can contact the
Galileo. Uhura reminds the captain that all wavelengths are dominated by ionization effects.
She says that the transmission is blocked and reception is impossible. An impatient Commissioner
Ferris gets the captain's attention. A tired captain reminds the commissioner that they have
until Stardate 2823.8 to continue the search. A pessimistic commissioner asks the captain if
he'll have any luck. Kirk reminds Ferris that these people are his friends and his shipmates. He
says that he'll continue the search for them until the last possible second.
Commissioner Ferris then tells Kirk that he mustn't
go beyond that second. He says that if the captain isn't clear on this, he should look at Book
Nineteen, Section Four Three Three, Paragraph Twelve. Kirk reminds Ferris that he doesn't need
to be reminded about the regulations, as he's well aware of his authority. As Ferris enters the
Turbolift, Kirk orders Shuttlecraft Columbus to be launched. Shuttlecraft Columbus exits the
Enterprise and heads toward Taurus II...
On Taurus II, Spock is busy working on the
shuttlecraft, when Dr. McCoy joins him. McCoy tells Spock that he doesn't care much for the
circumstances, but this is his big chance. When Spock asks McCoy what does he mean by that,
McCoy answers that it is his big chance for command. Spock ignores McCoy's statement and
continues working. McCoy doesn't ignore Spock and says that he knows him and says that Spock has
always used logic as the basis for command, and wonders if he is right. Spock tells McCoy that
he is a logical man. McCoy counteracts Spock saying that it will take more than logic to get
them out of this.
Spock partially agrees with McCoy, but adds that he
doesn't know where to begin. Spock tells McCoy that command does have its fascination, even
under circumstances such as these. He adds that he neither enjoys the idea of command or is
frightened by it. He says that it simply exists. Spock tells McCoy that he will do whatever
logically needs to be done. After pulling out a circuitry, Spock excuses himself from McCoy and
heads back to the inside of the shuttle.
Inside the shuttle, Mr. Scott is working under an
open panel, as Spock hands him the circuit he tore out. Dr. McCoy enters the shuttle, as Mr.
Scott tells Spock that it's very bad. Spock asks him in what way. Mr. Scott tells him that
they've lost a great deal of fuel and he believes they won't be able to reach escape velocity.
Scott adds that if they want to maintain their orbit, they will have to lighten their load by
five hundred pounds. Spock says that's the equivalent weight of three grown men and Scott says
that he could put it that way. Overhearing their conversation, McCoy says that could be the
equivalent weight in equipment. Spock disagrees with McCoy, saying that they shall use virtually
every equipment available to them in obtaining an orbit. Spock adds that there's very little
excess weight, except among the passengers.
Lt. Boma adds to the conversation, saying that
three of them must remain behind. Spock agrees adding that unless that circumstances change
radically, then yes, three must remain behind. When Boma asks Spock who will choose to be left
behind, Spock answers that since he is the commanding officer, the choice will be his. When Boma
asks Spock if he wouldn't be interested in drawing lots, Spock responds with the fact that the
idea that drawing of lots is a very quaint idea. He says that he will be better qualified to
make the choice than any random drawing of lots. When Boma asks who will remain behind, Spock
answers that his choice will be arrived at a logical one via logical means. Dr. McCoy reminds
Spock that life and death are seldom logical. Spock reminds the doctor that obtaining a desired
goal is always logical.
Spock ends the discussion by saying that they
should go outside and overlook the shuttle's hull, in the event that they've overlooked any
minor damage. After Spock steps outside, an angry Lt. Boma says that if any minor damage was
overlooked, it was when they put his head together. McCoy says that it's not his head that's
damaged, but his heart; his Vulcan heart.
Elsewhere on the planet, both Latimer and Gaetano
are exploring the planet as Spock ordered. The two soon stops on a sloping hill, as Gaetano
hears something in the distance. Latimer asks Gaetano what is it and Gaetano, squinting, tells
him that it's coming from in front of them. Soon, Latimer hears a different sound and tells
Gaetano that it's coming from behind them. Gaetano hears more sounds and tells Latimer that it's
all around them. Latimer tells Gaetano that they should get out of here. As Latimer and Gaetano
make the move out of the area, in the distance, a large creature with a spear, throws the spear
toward Latimer. The spear strikes Latimer, killing him instantly, and he yells to attract the
attention of others.
Working on the shuttlecraft, Spock, Boma and Scott
hears Latimer's scream and Spock lures Boma to the direction of Latimer and Gaetano, as Scott
continues to work on the shuttlecraft. Back at the location of Latimer and Gaetano, Gaetano
slips down to the methane filled ground, and starts firing his phaser randomly, hoping to hit
the creature that killed Latimer...
------
Gaetano stands where Latimer was killed, as both Spock and Boma rush
to him. Spock asks Gaetano what was it. Gaetano responds that it was huge, terrifying. Gaetano
tells Spock that he hit it, he thinks and points in the direction. Spock runs off in the
direction that Gaetano pointed to, to search for the creature that killed Latimer. As Spock goes
to search, Boma asks Gaetano if he saw what it was. Gaetano, still shocked at Latimer's death,
says vaguely and says that it was like a giant ape. Boma solemnly says, "poor Latimer," as
Gaetano says that it was quick for him. Boma tries to reassure Gaetano that they'll get off all
right.
Soon, Spock returns after discovering nothing. He
tells them that there's nothing there. Gaetano tries to reassure Spock that there was something
and he swears. Spock says that he doesn't doubt Gaetano's words. Spock soon removes the spear
embedded in Latimer's back and tells Boma and Gaetano that this is a Folsom point, discovered in
1925 Old World calendar, in New Mexico, Northern America. Spock says that the shaft is a bit
crude and says that it's not a very efficient piece of tool. "Not very efficient," repeats Boma,
who is angry at the fact that Spock has emotionally forgot about Latimer. Not understanding
Boma's resentment, Spock asks him if he is in error. Boma tells Spock that it's impossible for
Spock to be in error.
Spock orders Boma to elaborate. Boma explains to
Spock that Latimer is lying there dead and all he can talk about are stones and spears as if
nothing happened. Boma wonders what they should do about Latimer. Spock tells Boma that his
concern for the dead will not bring them back to life. Spock starts to move off, but Gaetano
interrupts him and says that, in the interest of efficiency, should they really leave Latimer's
body behind. Spock tells the men that bringing Latimer's body back to the ship will not hampen
their repair efforts, and wonders if he can assist them. An angry Gaetano says that they'll do
it. Gaetano tells Boma to help him with Latimer's body, as a despondent Boma goes to help
Gaetano.
As the Enterprise continues to orbit Taurus II, the
Captain's Log indicates that they continue to search. But the captain says that he finds it more
difficult each moment to ward off the sense of utter futility and great loss...
On the Bridge, Lt. Uhura reports to Captain Kirk
that the Columbus has returned from searching quadrant 779X by 534M with no luck. Kirk orders
Uhura to inform the Columbus to continue the search. Kirk asks Uhura if there's an update on the
sensors. Uhura reports that Engineering is continuing to work on them. Kirk then asks her for an
update on the transporters. Uhura reports that the transporters are reported as still being
unsafe. Kirk thanks the lieutenant. Soon, Commissioner Ferris gets Kirk's attention by saying
that he doesn't relish the thought of abandoning his crew but, Kirk finishes for him and says
that he hasn't forgotten their current mission. Commissioner Ferris reminds Kirk that he's
running out of time, and Kirk reminds him that he hasn't forgotten that either.
Captain Kirk contacts the transporter room and
orders them to try the overload on the transporters. He tells them that they've got to get those
transporters working. After contacting the transporter room, Kirk orders Uhura to tell the
Columbus to open their course two degrees on every lap. Kirk goes to Sulu at the helm, who tells
Kirk that two degrees will mean covering at least a dozen terrains on each search loop. Kirk
reminds Sulu that it'll also mean that it'll give them at least a fighting chance to cover the
majority of the planet's surface. Kirk orders Sulu to mind his helm. Commissioner Ferris heads
for the Turbolift and sternly reminds Kirk that he has twenty-four more hours.
On Taurus II, the repairs to the shuttle continue,
as Spock suggests to Scotty that perhaps he could channel the secondary auxiliary tank through
the primary intake valve. Mr. Scott cautions that it's too delicate and it might not take the
pressure as it is. Soon, Dr. McCoy and Yeoman Mears enters carrying boxes. McCoy tells Spock
that they've been able to scrape off at least fifty pounds. Yeoman Mears adds that they can
scrape off another one hundred pounds. Spock tells them that they still have to scrape off
another one hundred fifty pounds. McCoy is appalled that Spock is still considering leaving
somebody behind, after what happened to Latimer. Spock tells McCoy that it is rational to
sacrifice the life of one than six. McCoy argues that he's not talking about rationality, but
Spock counteracts by simply stating that it would be wise for McCoy to think about rationality.
Soon, the shuttlecraft door opens and Lt. Boma
interrupts Spock and McCoy's arguments, and informs Spock that they're ready. When Spock asks
him what for, Boma says that they're ready for Latimer's services. Spock tells Boma that they're
working against time here. Boma tells Spock that Latimer is dead and he deserves a decent
burial, and that he's the captain. A few words about Latimer would mean a lot for him. Spock
tries to get McCoy to say a few words for him, but McCoy says that it's his place for him to say
those words. Spock tells McCoy that his place is here and if the doctor wouldn't mind. McCoy
angrily reminds Spock that they may all die here and that he should let them die with dignity,
not machines. Spock calmly tells the doctor that by dealing with first things first, he hopes to
increase their chance of survival. This shuts McCoy up and Boma resigns to the fact that he
won't get the burial services for Latimer. Spock asks Scott how he can help, and Scott says that
he can give a hand with this conduit.
Later, as the repairs on the shuttlecraft
progresses, a hissing noise can be heard from the conduit. Mr. Scott says that that does about
does it and says that the pressure is dropping. He adds that they're losing everything. Spock
asks Scott what happened, and Scotty replies that one of the lines gave, with the strain of
coming through the atmosphere with the added load, made the conduit buckle, as they tried to
bypass. Mr. Scott says that they're fuel is gone as well. Spock soon says that that would've
solved the problem of who to leave behind. Mr. Scott silently agrees. Spock orders Mr. Scott to
consider the alternatives. When Scott argues what are the alternatives when they have no fuel,
Spock reminds him that there are always alternatives. Soon, Dr. McCoy and Yeoman Mears enters
the area where Spock and Scott are working, and tells Spock that something is happening outside.
Spock, McCoy and Mears head outside where they hear
a hissing noise from the creatures. Boma and Gaetano hide behind a rock, as Mears join them.
McCoy asks Spock what do those super-sensitive ears of his make of that. Spock answers that it
is wood, rubbing on some kind of leather. A frightened Gaetano says that they're getting ready
to attack. Boma dismisses Gaetano's suggestion and says that this is simply a tribal rite,
assuming they're tribal in origin. Spock says that they're not tribal, as their artifacts are
too primitive. It is likely a loose association of some kind. Yeoman Mears adds that if they
knew more about them, but Boma interjects saying that they know enough. He adds that if they're
tribal, they'll have a sense of unity and they could use this knowledge to their advantage.
When Spock asks him how, Boma says that they should
hit them first, make them bleed their noses to make them think twice about attacking them again.
Gaetano says he agrees, adding that if they stand-by and do nothing, it gives them an invitation
to come down here and slaughter them. Spock says that he is frequently appalled at the human's
low regard to other life-forms. Gaetano says that they're practical about it. He says they
should attack them before they attack the landing party. When Spock asks for Boma's opinion,
Boma agrees; he then turns to Dr. McCoy. McCoy tells Spock that it sounds logical to him. Spock
says that it seems logical to him, but to take life indiscriminately, seems illogical. Gaetano
reminds Spock that the majority have spoken. Spock angrily tells Gaetano that he's not
interested in the majority.
Spock tells them that the components must be
weighed, the danger to themselves as well as their duties to other life-forms, friendly or not.
As Spock continues to look around and after a while, he says that there's a third course.
Gaetano tells him that that could get them killed. Spock believes that it won't and soon orders
McCoy and Yeoman Mears to return to the ship and to assist Mr. Scott in whatever way possible.
He says they'll return shortly. As McCoy and Mears head back inside, Spock tells Boma and
Gaetano that they'll follow him and follow his orders precisely, firing only when instructed.
Gaetano says that now he's talking, but Spock warns him that they'll only fire to frighten, not
to kill. A disappointed Gaetano reminds Spock what they did to Latimer, but Spock sternly
reminds Gaetano that he's in command here and the responsibility is his. Spock orders them to
follow him, as he moves off to hunt for the creature, as Boma gives a sullen pat on Gaetano's
back.
Spock, Boma and Gaetano explore the planet's
surface to hunt the creatures. As the landing party explores the mist-laden planet, the Taurean
creature gets ready to strike on top of a hill. As the three continue on-ward, the Taurean
creature throws its spear, narrowly missing the three. Spock fires his phaser at the creature,
perched atop the hill, but strikes his shield. After Spock ceases firing, the creature throws
his huge shield down toward the three. After examining the huge shield, the three continue on.
As the three continue on, they soon come upon a
cliff face. Gaetano tells Spock that the mists are making it difficult for him to see. Spock
tells them that he can hear them and he believes there are several of them, directly ahead.
Spock orders Boma and Gaetano to direct their phasers at ten o'clock and two o'clock, and fire
when he gives the signal. When Gaetano protests that they should hit them dead on, Spock reminds
him that fortunately, he's the one giving the orders. Spock perches himself atop the cliff and
soon orders the men to fire their phasers. Both Boma and Gaetano fire their phasers, and after a
while, Spock orders them to cease fire.
Spock jumps back down to Boma and Gaetano's level,
and says that that should make them think twice about attacking them again. Gaetano believes
they should have hit them dead on, but Spock reminds him that that was not necessary. He says
that the fear in the creatures will do for them what needs to be done. Spock orders Boma to
return with him to the ship, while Gaetano should remain on guard here, keeping in contact with
the ship. Spock and Boma return to the ship, leaving a frightened Gaetano behind.
Spock returns to the Galileo and enters the
shuttlecraft. Yeoman Mears asks Spock if they saw the creatures and scared them off. Spock
reassures the yeoman that they won't be bothering them again. McCoy tells Spock let's hope not
and says that Mr. Scott has an idea. Mr. Scott tells Spock that his plan is dangerous, but it
might work. Spock orders Scott to elaborate. Mr. Scott informs Spock that he can adjust the main
reactor to function with their substitute fuel supply. Spock says that's all very well, except
that they do not have a substitute fuel supply. Scotty says that they do, their phasers. He says
that he can adjust the phaser energy to fuel the shuttlecraft. McCoy tells Spock that the
trouble is, the phasers happen to be their only defense against the creatures. Spock counteracts
by saying that the phasers also happen to be their only hope of escaping. Scott quietly agrees.
After much consideration, Spock agrees to Mr.
Scott's plan. He goes to Yeoman Mears and asks her for her phaser. A hesitant Mears asks Spock
what if the creatures return. Spock reassures the yeoman that the creatures won't attack for
several hours, and with luck, they will be gone by then. Scotty tells Spock that if he gets a
full load, they'll be able to achieve orbit with all hands, not that they can maintain it very
long. Spock says that they don't have to maintain orbit very long, as in twenty-four hours, the
Enterprise will be forced to abandon its search in order to make the rendezvous. He says whether
or not they burn up in a decaying orbit or die on the planet's surface, they will surely die.
Soon, Spock orders McCoy to hand over his phaser. A reluctant McCoy hands over his phaser. Spock
hands over the phasers and orders Scotty to work.
Back aboard the Enterprise, the test cannisters
used for testing the transporters, return safely to the ship. Captain Kirk enters the
Transporter Room and the transporter chief tells him that the cannisters came back all right. In
his opinion, the transporters are now safe for human transport. Kirk soon contacts the landing
party and orders them to report to the Transporter Room for immediate beaming down to the planet
surface. He also recommends them ordnance condition, one-A. The transporter chief reminds the
captain that it is a big planet and it'll be sure luck if the landing parties find anything.
Kirk tells the transporter chief that he's depending on luck, as it's the only two that'll work
in his favor now.
Back in the position where Gaetano was standing
guard, the creatures return to harass the lieutenant. The creatures knock the lieutenant's
phaser out of his hand by throwing a rock, which injures him. As Gaetano tries to scramble for
the phaser, the creature throws the Folsom point in his direction. Gaetano then tries to escape
the incoming creature by climbing the cliff face, but is unable to. Soon, one of the Taurean
creature advances on him, as Gaetano screams his last death throes...
------
Spock, Boma and McCoy are at Gaetano's last known position, but his
body is nowhere to be found. Spock goes over to Gaetano's phaser and hands it to Dr. McCoy, and
orders him to take his phaser back to Mr. Scott for conversion. An emotional Boma says that
nobody knows what happened to Gaetano and Spock just hands over his phaser like nothing
happened. He wonders what they're going to do about Gaetano. Spock soon hands his phaser to Dr.
McCoy and tells him to hand it to Mr. Scott, in the event that he does not return. McCoy wonders
where Spock is off to, and Spock says that he has a certain scientific curiosity as to what
happened to Gaetano's body. He orders them to return to the ship.
As Spock heads off, McCoy tells Boma that he
doesn't know about Spock's situation. He says that if Spock does find Gaetano, he's just as
liable to order him to stay behind. He asks for Boma's opinion. Boma asks McCoy if he thinks the
ship will ever leave the planet. McCoy encourages him by saying not unless they get these
phasers back to Mr. Scott. Soon, Boma and McCoy head back to the ship.
Spock searches the planet to locate Lt. Gaetano's
body. Spock finds Gaetano's body slumped over a rock and soon Spock goes to retrieve the body.
Spock carries Gaetano's body back to the ship, but the creatures soon attack Spock, as he makes
his way to the Galileo. Spock makes it safely back to the Galileo, but the creatures make it
difficult for him, as they continue to throw their spears. As Spock arrives at the Galileo,
McCoy and Boma assist Spock with Gaetano's body.
McCoy and Boma take Gaetano's body back to the aft
of the Galileo. Boma angrily looks at Spock for getting Gaetano killed, but Spock simply looks
back at him. When McCoy returns, he informs Spock that the creatures didn't stay frightened very
long. Spock says that the creatures are reacting very illogically. Spock says that when they
demonstrated their superior weapons, they should have fled. McCoy counters by saying that the
creatures should have respected them. Spock simply says of course and McCoy tells Spock that
that respect is a rational process with emotions. He wonders if it ever occurred to Spock that
the creatures might react emotionally with anger. Spock tells the doctor that he's not
responsible for the creature's unpredictability.
McCoy says that the creatures were perfectly
predictable, to anyone with feelings. He prods Spock to admit that his precious logic brought
the creatures down on them. Yeoman Mears wonders why the creatures haven't done anything yet.
Spock answers her that the creatures are studying them, for the moment. Boma wonders if this is
another prediction of Spock's. Spock simply says that it is his opinion. Suddenly, the Galileo
rocks, as the creatures attack with a piece of rock. Spock orders Boma to seal the windows, as
McCoy shouts that the creatures are studying them and seem to learn quickly. Boma tells Spock
that he seem to have all the answers, what now. Spock recognizes that Boma's tone is getting
increasingly hostile. Boma says that his tone isn't the only thing that's hostile.
Spock says that this is curious and most illogical
of the creatures. Boma says that he's sick and tired of his logic. Yeoman Mears interjects,
saying that they could use a little inspiration. Spock says that this is strange, as step by
step, he has made the correct and logical decision, and yet, two men have died. As the creature
continues to attack the shuttle, McCoy says that Spock has brought the furry friends with him.
Spock agrees with McCoy that he miscalculated them and inculcated resentment on their part.
Spock adds that sum of the parts cannot be greater than the whole. McCoy tells Spock that they
need action rather than analysis.
Spock asks Mr. Scott how long before he completely
drains all the phasers. Scotty says another hour or two, but McCoy says that won't be long
enough. Scotty warns him that phasers can only drain so fast. Boma asks Spock how long do they
expect to hold out like this. He implores Mr. Spock to do something. Scott tells Spock that he's
got his hands full, as the creature continues to attack.
As the Enterprise continues to orbit Taurus II, the
Captain's Log explains that the landing parties are on the surface of Taurus II as they continue
to search. The log also indicates that instruments are slowly returning to an operable
condition, as the ion storm slowly disperses. The log says that on the ship, they can only
continue to hope...
On the Bridge, Kirk goes to Uhura as Commissioner
Ferris enters the Bridge, to get a report on their sensor status. When Uhura informs Kirk that
the last report, Kirk sharply reminds Uhura that he's not interested in the last report, he
wants to know now. As he waits for Uhura's report, Commissioner Ferris reminds Kirk that he has
two hours forty three minutes left. Kirk reminds Ferris that he's perfectly aware of how much
time he has left. Ferris is delighted to know that, however, he shall continue to remind Kirk.
Soon, Uhura reports that she has a report from sensor station. She reports that the sensors are
still creating static interference, giving off false readings and estimate that it is eighty
percent undependable. Kirk asks what about radio communications. Uhura answers that they are
clearing slowly, still incapable of transmission or reception.
Ferris asks Kirk what he intends to do. Kirk tells
the Commissioner that he intends to continue the search, foot by foot, inch by inch and by
candlelight if necessary. He adds that if the Commissioner keeps his nose off his Bridge, he'd
be thankful. Commissioner Ferris tells Kirk that the authorities may be diligent about his
duties, but he's not sure how the authority will react to Kirk's treatment of the Commissioner.
Kirk reminds Ferris that he's in command of this ship. Ferris sharply reminds him that he is,
for another two hours and forty two minutes, and storms off the Bridge.
Back on Taurus II, the creature continue to attack
the Galileo shuttlecraft. Inside the shuttlecraft, Spock asks Scott if there's enough power in
the ship's battery. Scott replies that the batteries are in good shape, but they won't lift them
off it that's what Spock is getting at. Spock wonders if the batteries will electrify the
exterior of the ship. Scott gives Spock an enthusiastic reply that they will and Spock tells him
to go ahead. Spock tells everyone to go to the center of the ship and don't touch the plates. He
tells them to be well insulated. When everyone is in position, Mr. Scott removes the cover on
the batteries. Spock gives him the signal to go ahead, and Mr. Scott, with a piece of tool,
touches the battery pack. This electrifies the exterior of the ship, and when the creature don't
let go, Spock orders Scotty to do it again. Just to be safe, Spock orders Scotty to do it again
the second time.
After Spock orders Scotty to stop, Mr. Scott goes
over to Spock and tells him that he daren't use any more, not without causing an ignition. Mr.
Spock believes that they've used enough. Mr. Spock orders Mr. Scott to continue draining the
phasers. Dr. McCoy joins them and says that it must have worked. Spock says that for the moment
it worked. Boma repeats his statement, for the moment and Spock responds by saying that the
creatures will return once they realize they aren't seriously hurt. Spock soon tells them to see
what's in the aft compartment that they can unload to lighten the ship.
Boma reminds Spock that Mr. Gaetano's body is back
there. Spock tells him that it would of course have to be left behind. Boma says not without a
burial, but Spock says that he wouldn't recommend it, as the creatures won't be far away. Boma
repeats that he wants a burial for Gaetano. Spock says that it will put the crew in unncessary
peril. Boma says that he'll take that chance and tells Spock that he would insist upon a burial
even it was Spock's body back there. Dr. McCoy warns Boma to be careful, but Boma says that he's
sick and tired of this machine. Mr. Scott also warns Boma that that's enough. Before the
situation gets out of hand, Spock quells the situation by saying that Mr. Boma can have his
burial, provided the creatures will permit it. With that settled, everyone gets back to work.
Back on the Enterprise, Lt. Uhura reports to
Captain Kirk that landing party number two has been beamed back to the ship and that they have
casualties. Captain Kirk goes to the science station and orders Uhura to put Lt. Kelowitz on
visual. As Kirk activates a viewer, Kelowitz appears and Kirk asks for a report. Kelowitz
explains that they were attacked by huge furry creatures. He's checked with astral anthropology,
and they order them four-eighty G, anthropoid, similar lifeforms found on Hansen's planet. He
says that they are much larger than the Hansen planet creatures, ten to twelve feet in height.
Kirk soon asks for the casualty report. Kelowitz
says that Ensign O'Neill got a spear through the body before they knew the creatures were
around. Lt. Immamura has a dislocated shoulder and severe lacerations, but he'll make it.
Kelowitz tells the captain that the creatures are all over on the planet and if the Galileo is
down there, Kirk cuts him off. He orders Kelowitz to report to Sickbay himself. After his
conversation with Kelowitz, Commissioner Ferris enters the Bridge and tells Kirk that if he
checks his chronometer, it is now 2823.8. He now assumes command of the ship, granted to him
under Title Fifteen of the Galactic Emergency Procedures and orders Kirk to recall the search
parties and to proceed to Makus III immediately.
Kirk tells Ferris that he still has landing parties
on Taurus II and that the Columbus is still out there. Ferris says that Kirk is procrasinating
and that the captain has his orders. Kirk goes to his command chair and orders Lt. Uhura to
contact the transporter room and order them to immediately beam up the remaining landing
parties. He also orders her to attempt to contact the Columbus. Uhura says she has partial
contact with the Columbus and Kirk orders her to bring them around. Kirk orders Sulu to prepare
to abandon search and to set course for Makus III. Sulu and the navigator look at each other,
but obeys the captain's orders...
------
As the Enterprise continues to orbit Taurus II, the Captain's Log
indicate that the landing parties have been beamed back to the ship and that the Columbus is on
its way back. He says that he has been compelled to abandon the search...
On the Bridge, Lt. Uhura reports to the captain
that sensor stations are reporting that the sensor beam is operational again. When Captain Kirk
asks her what about the other systems, Uhura says that they are still inoperable, due to the
interference. Mr. Sulu informs the captain that they are ready and that he has set course for
Makus III. Kirk asks Uhura, how long until the Columbus returns to the ship. Uhura responds by
saying twenty-three minutes. Kirk repeats Uhura's statement, and they have twenty-three minutes
left to search for the survivors.
On Taurus II and inside the Galileo, Yeoman Mears
tries to contact the Enterprise. She tells Mr. Spock that it's no good, as there's too much
ionic interference. Mr. Spock goes to Mr. Scott, who has just finished draining the phasers.
Scott tells Spock that that's it. Mr. Spock asks Scott about the weight and Scott
answers that if they shed every ounce, Scott says that they can achieve orbit. Spock asks him
how long they can maintain it. Scott answers a few hours, no longer. Scott also says that if
they time it right, they might be able to use the fuel for a controlled re-entry into the
planet's atmosphere. To land back here is not an attractive possibility, Spock gives Scott a
pessimistic view. Mr. Scott reminds Spock that they have very few alternatives.
Mr. Spock goes to the shuttle's door and opens it
to look outside. Spock calls out to McCoy and Boma. He asks Mr. Scott when can the ship lift off
and Scott answers in eight minutes, if the weights right. When McCoy and Boma appears, Spock
tells them that the ship will lift off in ten minutes and that they have that long to bury Mr.
Gaetano. He says that it seems clear outside for the moment and tells them to hurry and that
he'll assist them.
Back aboard the Enterprise, the Columbus has just
returned to the ship, with the shuttlebay hatch closing. On the Bridge, Lt. Uhura reports that
the Columbus has returned and the flight deck hatch closed. Transporter Room reports that the
last of the landing parties have been beamed back to the ship safely. She reports that all
systems are secure for warp factors. Captain Kirk orders Mr. Sulu to proceed to Makus III at
space-normal speed. A stunned Sulu asks him, space-normal? Kirk says those were his orders. Kirk
orders Uhura to order sensor stations to direct their beams aft, full function and continuous
operations until further notice. The Enterprise heads for Makus III...
Back on Taurus II, Spock, McCoy and Boma are
attending the services for Gaetano, when the creatures attack again. Spock orders McCoy and Boma
back to the ship and to lift off without him. Spock tries to fend off the creatures by throwing
the spears back. As McCoy and Boma head back to the Galileo, the creatures throw a rock at
Spock's foot, trapping him against a rock. McCoy and Boma sees this and turns around to help
Spock, but Spock insist them to take off without him. McCoy and Boma ignore Spock's orders and
assist him in becoming free. Once free, the three make it to the ship, with Spock limping toward
it.
Spock, McCoy and Boma head back inside the shuttle
as Spock orders Scott to lift off. Inside the shuttle, Spock tells McCoy and Boma that they
should have left him there. McCoy tells Spock not to be a fool, as they couldn't have left him
there. Spock orders Scott to lift off, but Scott says that they should be moving, but they're
not. Spock checks an instrument and says that he's right. He says that the creatures are holding
onto them. Spock soon goes to the console and hits a control. An astounded Scott asks Spock what
he's doing. Spock says that he's using the boosters to take off. Scott reminds him that they
need the fuel to maintain orbit. Spock asks Scott if he would rather stay here. Agreeing with
him, Scott gives Spock the controls.
As Spock takes control, the shuttle begins to move,
which excites Yeoman Mears. Boma says the creatures let go, or fell off adds McCoy. Spock
reminds the crew that they have yet to achieve orbit and that an hour from now, they may be
right back where they started from. The shuttlecraft leaves the planet and tries to maintain
orbit.
Inside the shuttle, Spock tells McCoy and Boma that
they may have sacrificed their slim chance for survival by coming after him. He says that the
logical thing for them to have done was to leave him behind. McCoy tells Spock that he's sick
and tired of his logic. Spock says that that is the most illogical attitude. Spock reports that
they are at orbit altitude. He says they'll be in orbit in orbit minute. He asks Mr. Scott for a
fuel report. Mr. Scott reports that they have fifteen thousand pounds PSI of fuel left, which
will give them enough for one orbit. Dr. McCoy asks them what will happen then. Mr. Scott says
that tapping their boosters ended their chance of a soft landing.
Boma asks them if this means a burn-up. Spock tells
him that that is the usual end to a decaying orbit. Yeoman Mears tells them that she doesn't
want to die up here. Spock tells her that it is infinitely preferable to the kind of death
they'd be granted on the planet's surface. Boma tells Spock that he admires his ability to make
such a measured choice. Mr. Scott reminds Spock that earlier he told him that there were always
alternatives. Spock asks him, did he. He says that he may have been mistaken. McCoy says that
he's glad that he's lived long enough to hear that. Dr. McCoy asks Spock if there's anything
they can do. Spock tells McCoy that the Enterprise is surely on course for Makus III by now and
that he doesn't believe in angels. McCoy tells Spock that that ends his first command. Spock
solemnly replies, "yes, my first command."
Mr. Scott reports that they are at orbit altitude
and adds that with their present fuel, they have about forty-five minutes left. As the Galileo
continues to try and orbit Taurus II, Spock tries valiantly to contact the Enterprise, but
without success. After unsuccessfully contacting the Enterprise, Spock ponders his next move.
Spock soon sees the fuel jettison toggle on the control panel and gets an idea. Spock casually
toggles the fuel jettison and soon, there is a loud explosion and the shuttle blasts forward.
An alarmed crew goes to Spock, as Scott calls out
his name. Yeoman Mears asks them what happened, and Scott answers that Spock jettisoned the fuel
and ignited it. Mr. Boma tells Spock that they need that fuel to maintain orbit and wonders if
Spock is out of his mind. Spock calmly tells him perhaps. McCoy asks Scott how long do they have
now. Scott says that the orbit will start decaying once the fuel is exhausted, say six minutes
or so.
As the Enterprise slowly limps toward Makus III,
Sulu spots something on his scanners at Taurus II. Kirk orders Sulu for sensors. On the
viewscreen, they see the fuel exhaust from the shuttlecraft, streaking across Taurus II. Kirk
asks Sulu if it could be a meteorite. Sulu says no and that it's holding a lateral line. He says
there it is again and it's holding steady. Kirk orders Sulu to come about one-hundred eighty
degrees at full normal speed. Kirk orders Uhura to inform Transporter Room to ready the beam.
Inside the shuttle, a surprised Scotty tells Spock
that he jettisoned the fuel so that he can send a distress signal, like sending up a flare.
Scott tells Spock that it was a good gamble and perhaps it was worth it. Spock tells him that
there was no one out there to see it. Soon, the fuel runs out of Galileo. Scott tells them that
the orbit is decaying. They have ten seconds until atmosphere. McCoy tells Spock that this would
be his last action he'll ever take and that it was all human. Spock tells McCoy that that is
totally illogical, as there was no chance. McCoy tells him that that's exactly what he means.
As the Galileo starts descending into the
atmosphere, smoke fills the cabin and the temperature begins to climb. Yeoman Mears says that
it's getting hot in here. On the Enterprise, Uhura informs Captain Kirk that the Transporter
Room has locked on. Kirk orders Uhura to activate the beam. Just as the Galileo is about to burn
up, the Enterprise beams out the surviving crew. On the Enterprise, Sulu tells Kirk that
whatever it was, it just burned up in the atmosphere. Soon, Uhura's console beeps and as she
checks her message, she tells Kirk that Transporter Room have just beamed up five persons, alive
and well. Kirk reacts to this news, and orders Sulu to proceed on course to Makus III, at warp
factor one.
After the Enterprise successfully rescues the
surviving Galileo crewmembers, it warps to Makus III. On the Bridge, McCoy tells Captain Kirk
what happened inside the shuttle. As Spock goes to his station, Captain Kirk tells him that
there's something about this that doesn't make sense and wants Spock to clear it up. Kirk tells
him to elaborate it for him, logically of course. Kirk tells Spock that when he jettisoned the
fuel and ignited it, Spock knew that there was no chance anyone would see it and that he did it
anyway. Kirk tells him that that would seem to be an act of desperation. Kirk says that they all
know, including Dr. McCoy, that desperation is a highly emotional state of mind and wonders how
Spock would explain that.
Spock says that it's quite simple. He tells Kirk
that he examined the situation from all angles and knew that the situation was quite hopeless.
He says that logic informed him that the only possible action would have to be one of
desperation. He says that it was a logical decision, logically arrived at. Kirk then says that
Spock reasoned that it was time for an emotional outburst. Spock says that he wouldn't quite put
it in those terms, but those are essentially the facts. A disappointed captain tells Spock that
he's not going to admit that Spock committed a purely, emotional human act. When Spock says no,
Kirk starts to snicker. When Kirk tells him that he's a stubborn man, Spock simply says, "yes,
sir." This makes Kirk laugh harder as he return to his seat and the crew join in the laughter...
