cimorene

with some caps, naturally.

an ALIEN has given the enterprise 10 minutes before it blows them all up and the bridge crew are understandably upset.

KIRK's pacing takes him to SPOCK, who moves to intercept.

SPOCK, in undertone: Jim--

KIRK paces three steps away and turns.

ALIEN: FOUR MINUTES.

KIRK, continuing to pace, makes it back to SPOCK again. when he turns at SPOCK's side SPOCK falls into step next to him.

KIRK: what's the matter with them out there? they must know we mean them no harm.

SPOCK, still in an undertone, somewhat pained: they're certainly aware by now that we're totally incapable of any.

KIRK, turning to SPOCK: there MUST be something to do--[he glances once feverishly around the bridge] something i've overlooked. [he closes his eyes briefly.]

SPOCK, practically whispering: in chess... [KIRK draws himself up a little and turns to look at SPOCK] when one is outmatched, the game is over. [arms crossed, holding himself stiffly upright, he turns to look at KIRK]

KIRK looks at him for a moment.

SPOCK, softly: checkmate.

KIRK, whose gaze hasn't wavered, in low voice but sharply: is that your best recommendation?

SPOCK [drawing in a sharp breath, starting to shake his head no, then bowing it down. hoarsely and almost inaudibly] i'm s-- [SPOCK breaks off, takes a deep breath, raises his head, uncrosses his arms and assumes parade stance. in a stronger voice, but still pitched only to KIRK] i regret that i can find no other logical alternative.

KIRK turns his face away, then walks on. SPOCK stands apparently impassive and moves to his station.