Warhammer: The Time Traveler

Chapter 317 Mind Fusion (First Update)
While Chen Yu was busy with academic exchanges and Carol was preparing for the Genesis expedition, James T. Kirk was troubled by another strange and unsettling phenomenon.

He noticed that his old friend, Dr. Leonard McCoy, had been behaving increasingly strangely lately.

This doctor, known for his fiery temper, sharp tongue, and skepticism toward unscientific things (especially certain Vulcan customs), occasionally utters remarks that are completely out of character.

For example, during a discussion about Chen Yu, McCoy surprisingly analyzed the energy conservation problem of interdimensional travel in an unusually calm and logically rigorous tone. He even subconsciously raised his hand, making the prototype of the iconic Vulcan salute, and then suddenly put it down as if he had been burned, muttering "What the hell."

For example, he would suddenly look at his hands and whisper in a tone that was a mixture of confusion and understanding: “Fascinating…”—this was Spock’s catchphrase.

These subtle changes initially seemed abrupt to Kirk, but as they occurred more frequently, an absurd and unsettling conjecture began to take root in his mind.

He dared not think too deeply about it until an unexpected visitor came to his door—Sharik, Spock's father, the Vulcan ambassador.

Sarek maintained the composure and dignity typical of Vulcans, but his deep-set eyes held an unprecedented solemnity. Without exchanging pleasantries, he delivered the earth-shattering news directly to Kirk:

"Captain Kirk, my son Spock, before his sacrifice, underwent a 'Fal-tor-pan' with Dr. McCoy."

Kirk felt a wave of dizziness. He knew, of course, what the Vulcans’ spiritual fusion meant—the sharing of consciousness, the transmission of memories, and even… the attachment of fragments of the soul.

Sarek continued in his calm, even tone, but the content of his words made Kirk's heart pound: "Spock's Katra (soul, essence of consciousness) has not completely dissipated."

A part, the most important part, resides deep within Dr. McCoy's consciousness.

This is also the reason for Dr. McCoy's recent abnormal behavior; he is unconsciously absorbing Spock's thought patterns and some of his memories.

Kirk instantly understood why "Bones" said Spock's words and why he acted in ways that were out of character for him.

This isn't a mental problem; it's... Spock existing in another way!

“This state is a huge burden and danger for both of them,” Sarek said seriously. “McCoy’s human mind cannot withstand the fusion with the Vulcan Katra for long, and Spock’s Katra cannot find true peace in the non-Vulcan consciousness. Over time, both of their souls may suffer irreversible damage.”

He offered the only solution: "Spock's remains, which were left on Genesis, must be brought back to Vulcan."

Only in the temple of Mount Seleya, through the ancient Faltorpan ritual, can Katra be reunited with the body, allowing Spock's soul to rest and also freeing Dr. McCoy.

This news shocked Kirk, but it also brought with it an overwhelming sense of responsibility.

Spock is still "alive," while his old friend "Bones" is suffering because of it.

He must help them! He must go to Genesis immediately and retrieve Spock's remains!

However, the reality is that due to his prolonged mental confusion after returning to Earth, the high command of the Interstellar Federation fleet, based on a mental health assessment, has temporarily relieved him of his command and given him a "mandatory extended leave."

He currently has no authority to command any starships.

To make matters worse, his beloved Enterprise had been severely damaged in the previous fierce battle with Khan. There had long been voices within the Federation Fleet that the Constitution-class starship was too old, and after this major blow, calls for its retirement had only grown stronger.

Fleet Command only approved the most basic structural repairs to the Enterprise to ensure its safe return to dry dock.

At this moment, this legendary, battered starship rests quietly in the orbital dock, like a hero awaiting final judgment, facing the tragic fate of being dismantled or turned into a museum.

Without command or available starships, the path to Genesis and the rescue of his two dearest friends seemed to be completely blocked.

Kirk stood at the window of his apartment, gazing at the starry sky, his fists clenched.

Frustration, anxiety, and worry about his friends' situation nearly overwhelmed him.

But he was, after all, James T. Kirk, the man who repeatedly pulled off miracles from the brink of defeat.

His gaze gradually shifted from confusion to determination.

There must be a way.

He must find a way to reclaim his ship or find another ship to travel to Genesis.
-
Just as Kirk was tormented by feelings of powerlessness and urgency, almost to the point of taking desperate measures and considering using irregular means to seize the Enterprise or finding other ways, a familiar knock on the door interrupted his thoughts. Standing outside was Carol Marcus.

Kirk was somewhat surprised by her arrival, but he was even more surprised by the news she brought.

“Jim,” Carroll said directly and calmly, with the pragmatism characteristic of a scientist, “the Federal Congress has officially approved the comprehensive scientific expedition to Genesis Star, which I will lead. Sage Chen Yu will accompany us as the chief scientific advisor.”

Kirk's heart sank. An official mission... yet he was excluded.

Carol seemed to see through his thoughts, and she continued, her tone softening slightly: "I know your current situation. The fleet has concerns about your condition, and you weren't on the initial mission roster."

She paused, looking directly into Kirk's somewhat haggard but still sharp eyes: "But I made a strong recommendation to the Council and Fleet Command. I told them that no one understands the spatial characteristics and potential risks of the Genesis region better than you, and no one has more experience in handling emergencies in unknown star systems."

This mission requires your experience, Jim, especially with such an extremely important visitor from another world as Chen Yu on board. Security must be at the highest level.

Kirk was stunned; he hadn't expected Carroll to fight for him.

At a time when their relationship was complicated and even somewhat estranged, her trust and persistence were like a warm current that pierced through the gloom in his heart.

“Carol…I…” Kirk was at a loss for words, and all his thoughts finally boiled down to a heartfelt “Thank you.”

Carol shook her head slightly, a complicated smile on her face: "You're welcome, Jim. This is a rational judgment based on the needs of the mission. Besides... I know how much Spock's matter has affected you."

She didn't point out McCoy's unusual behavior, but her eyes showed that she knew the connection and Kirk's inner turmoil. "Perhaps this mission is also an opportunity for you... to find your focus again."

(End of this chapter)