Aboard The Enterprise, Leonard McCoy had no choice but to call for security.
 
"You weren't in your right mind, Spock. That witch set you up. Its her fault Jim is gone."
 
Spock did not agree.
 
"Manipulative though she may be, Doctor, it was not T'Pring's hand on the Lirpa. The fact remains : My Captain and My Friend is dead, and I must take responsibility for that grievous fact."
 
While a gentler version of their usual back-and-forth went on, neither of them noticed Jim Kirk start suddenly, then revive. His gut-wound had already healed.
 
"What's going on?"
 
McCoy yelped. Later, Spock would not even bother to deny an emotional reaction. Suddenly, their Captain's incessant risk-taking came up in an entirely new light.
 
 "Well, I guess I can trust you gentlemen to keep my secret. You see, the Kirks adopted me---and yes, Carol was wrong  about David's parentage. Since this tunic is ripped, I'd best go back to my cabin. We'll  talk---later."
 
 "Count on it, Captain."
 
 "Ditto, Jim."
 
 After Kirk left, McCoy shook his head.
 
 "Spock, you don't suppose Jim is an....."
 
 "It would seem logical to assume that, Doctor. But that leaves one remaining puzzle."
 
 "Just one?"
 
  "Yes. Wherever does The Captain keep his sword?"
  
"A valid question, Mister Spock. But don't lose your head over it."
  
 At that, Spock raised an eyebrow, left, and rejoined the Captain.
 

 2371 - Veridian Three
  
"Need some help moving those rocks?"
 
 Picard brushed off the help.
 
"No, thank, you, I.....AAAAAHHHHH!!!!"