As I said before, sequel to Plugged In. I could never make a one shot. Just not made for it. Unfortunately for you guys this chapter is short. About 5K shorter than my typical chapters for Plugged In. I know Plugged In didn't need a sequel, but I was kind of sad we never fully immersed into the world and gameplay. It was mostly just Jim hanging out at Spock's place. I'm warning you know, the update for this will probably be slow. Cardinal Rule has taken priority in writing for now, but I'm impatient and once I finish a chapter I got to post it. Anyway, enjoy.

"All systems are green, Keptin. Inputting coordinates."

"Engineering has confirmed that all systems are working."

"Medbay is standing by."

Captain James Kirk smiled to himself as he watched his bridge come to life. The excitement was buzzing through the air, barely contained as everyone moved quickly and efficiently around their stations, starting up systems, relaying back and forth between different departments. All anxious for the same thing he was.

"Captain, Starfleet is giving us permission to warp at your command."

"Thank you, Lieutenant Uhura," Jim said, watching as the Earth starbase was now just a speck on the view screen.

"Captain, we are clear for warp."

Jim turned his head, glancing back at the man standing just behind and right of his captain's chair. Spock was rigid, looking straight ahead at the view screen. The blue science uniform complimented his dark hair and green tinged skin, and Jim took the moment to appreciate it the uniform he now wore. "Thank you, Mr. Spock. You sure the hull will hold?"

The question caught Spock's attention, turning his chocolate brown eyes to him. An elegantly pointed eyebrow raised in condescension. "I personally checked the schematics and calculations for the Enterprise as well as overlooked the construction of the warp core myself. If no changes to the structure have been made since its installation and testing, then I am 99.9998 percent certain that neither the hull nor warp core will fail."

Jim tried not to laugh at the obvious offense. "You mean there's still a two-ten thousandths of a chance of us dying a horrible death?"

Spock opened his mouth to respond, but the captain just waved him off. "I'm just teasing, Spock."

"A human tendency that you seem to embrace, Captain," he said, retreating to his science station.

Jim only smiled wider and switched on the ship wide intercom. "This is your captain speaking. Today, we are about to make Earth history as the first humans to break the speed of light. We are making more than just history though. We are paving the path for other explorers, and opening up the universe for future exploration. Our trip to the Vulcan star base is only the first step. If all goes well, we'll continue further into the outer reaches of the galaxy where no man or Vulcan has gone before. Each and every one of you plays a part of our success. Each of you is the best and brightest of your field, and I am lucky to have you all serve under my command. I know this ship is in good hands, and I couldn't ask for a better crew. I look forward to serving with you."He stopped for a dramatic pause, glancing over the bridge each and every pair of eyes watching him as he did so. "Without further ado, let's get this show on the road."

Turning off the intercom, he said, "Sulu, take her out, warp factor one."

"Yes, sir." Sulu grinned.

The engines whined as the power to warp charged. Everyone waited in anticipation. Then unexpectedly, the engines started to power down.

Jim frowned. He knew Spock was turning around at his station doing that not frown thing as well. "Sulu?"

"Sorry, sir. I'm not sure what's wrong."

"Is the parking brake on?" he asked. He couldn't help it. The annoyed face Sulu made was worth it.

With a strained smile, he replied, "Uh, no sir."

"Did you release the external inertial dampener?"

Jim bit his lip trying hard not to laugh when Spock pretty much reiterated his question. He did chuckle a bit when the pilot's face became carefully blank as he moved to release the dampener. "Let's try that again. "Onward, warp factor one."

The engines whined, charging once again. This time, the ship jumped. The bridge exploded into applause, and Jim smiled when the intercom activated and more applause came through. "Engines are holding steady, Captin. She should be able to handle going a wee bit faster."

"Thanks, Scotty. We'll give it a shot. Increase to warp factor two, Sulu."

"Increasing speed to warp factor two, Captain."

"All systems are green, Captain. It appears that warp core is a success," Spock said.

Jim sat, staring at the view screen, watching the stars wiz by as streaks. It was beautiful. It was hard to believe they were really traveling faster than light. Two times faster actually.

"I believe congratulations are in order, Captain."

The captain leaned back in his chair, tilting his head to look at Spock who was standing beside him again, looking as calm as ever. It wasn't a surprise as Spock had been on much faster vessels. His own private ship was easily able to handle up warp factor four. Theoretically the Enterprise could handle up to warp factor nine in short bursts, but they weren't quite ready to test it out quite yet. "Thanks? Isn't that illogical Spock?"

"I have concluded that if I am to live among humans it is necessary to adapt a few of their customs."

"I see. How long until we reach Vulcan?"

"At the current pace, sixteen point zero four hours."

Jim nodded. "Great. It gives you enough time to get some of those science officer duties done."

"Indeed." Spock tilted his head in acknowledgement, dismissing himself and heading towards the turbolift.

"Meet up for dinner?"

"After alpha shift," Spock said without slowing his pace. Jim continued to watch him until the turbo lift's doors closed.

Jim let out a soft sigh. Dinner couldn't come fast enough.

The celebrating was cut short after the first couple of minutes, everyone working silently at their stations, and truthfully, there was nothing for Jim to do but sit there the entire shift. He finished his paperwork as there wasn't much to complete until he contacted Starfleet at the base. This trip was essentially to make sure the warp core worked. The VSA would look over the ship to double check everything was safe and holding up, the earth dignitary would be dropped off on Vulcan, and then they'd be heading out to the next Vulcan star base before turning around returning to Earth. Then they would start their real mission of going out into the galaxy. Jim couldn't wait.

Until then, he would have to sit bored out of his mind.

The moment alpha shift ended, he waited impatiently as he watched the first change of rotation. Technically he didn't have to do this, but he wanted to make sure everything was running smoothly the first day.

Once the last person from alpha shift had left the bridge, he went to the mess hall, pleased to see his friends and Spock already waiting for him.

"Mr. Spock," he grinned, taking a seat beside him, brushing his fingers against the Vulcan's. A faint blush on Spock's cheeks and the warming of the bond was the only clue that he had acknowledged the kiss which was more than enough considering how closed off Spock had been on the bridge. It was something he had yet to get used to.

"Stop with the lovey dovey eyes already. Two seconds off duty and you're back to being a love sick newlywed," Doctor McCoy rolled his eyes. "Thought you were keeping it on the down low."

"Don't know what you're talking about, Bones. I'm just greeting my first officer." He shrugged, taking a bite of his pizza. Spock was giving him a strange look when he did.

"He's right, Captain," Uhura piped in, quietly. "You don't know if someone will report you for fraternization. "

"I know, I know," he sighed, taking another bite. It definitely made having a relationship with his first officer difficult. Spock's staring was starting to get to him however. "What?"

The blush on Spock's cheeks deepened though his face remained impassive. His food apparently was more interesting as he turned his attention to his tomato soup. "It is nothing, Captain."

Confused, Kirk frowned but didn't push. It wasn't a conversation to have with so many people nearby. Within the few short weeks he had spent with Spock in person that was one of the few things Jim learned about him fairly quickly. Spock hated talking about anything personal in public.

"Can't believe we're going faster than light. It ain't natural," the doctor grumbled.

"You signed up for this, remember?" Jim added helpfully.

"Yeah, well I didn't think I'd be under the command of a 24 year old kid. One that attracts trouble at that."

"I don't attract that much trouble," Jim scoffed.

"Oh, yeah? How about the time you helped Scotty dematerialize Admiral Archer's beagle?"

Jim just smiled. "What can I say Bones? It kind of had to be tested if we wanted Spock's mom back."

"It didn't even work!"

At the admission, Spock raised an eyebrow at Jim, making the brash young captain squirm. "It came back...eventually."

"After almost two years in a transporter in Sweden."

"It still came back didn't it," Jim defended.

"And don't even get me started on that shit with Janice Lester," McCoy continued. Sulu laughed at the mention of the name as Jim paled.

"Hey, guys. I have a great idea. Let's change the subject," Jim said, laughing nervously

"May I inquire about this Janice Lester?" Spock asked, clearly intrigued by Jim's reaction.

"Oh, just one of Jim's many ex-girlfriends except this one was bat shit crazy," Sulu grinned as Jim looked desperate to be anywhere else.

"That doesn't begin to cover it. Woman tried to make a damn mind switching machine. When that didn't work, she tried to kill him."

A dark look crossed Spock's features that only Jim seemed to notice, who was suddenly very worried. "And what happened to Ms. Lester."

"In a mental institution. She seriously thought it was Jim's fault that she wasn't chosen as one of the top five candidates. Jim managed to subdue her before she could actually shoot him. Serves him right for being such a playboy."

"Bones, I'm never telling you anything again," Kirk said silently seething.

"And that, kid, would be a blessing, not a punishment."

The rest of the dinner was spent talking about the academy and various mischiefs they all got into. Jim left after the first ten minutes when it came apparent that most of the conversation was going to be about him, and he had to check the status of the ship anyway.

By the time he returned, the conversation shifted to one of the rec rooms. He stood by the door, watching Spock sit extremely stiff with perfect posture in one of the seats as the others continued to chat. A slow smile graced Jim's lips at the reminiscence of their first meeting at the IDIC tavern. He leaned against the door frame gaining the Vulcan's attention. Spock looked almost relieved, at his entrance.

Jim tilted his head, motioning for him follow. Spock was by his side in an instant. "My room?" he asked, the back of his hand grazing against Spock's.

"Negative, Captain. That could be considered fraternization if we are alone."

"Office?"

With some hesitation, Spock nodded.

Jim's office was a decent size. Enough room to fit a large metal desk and two chairs comfortably with room to spare. Once the door hissed shut, Jim wrapped his arms around Spock's neck and mashed their lips together. Spock moved his lips against Jim's sensually before wrapping his fingers around his captain's biceps and gently pulling away. "Jim, we cannot."

A sound of frustration escaped the human as he turned a glare onto the man in front of him. "Spock, I can't go celibate after just getting hitched only a few weeks ago."

"What was established was a pre-marital bond. We are not yet married, but it is more than an engagement. Nevertheless rules of fraternization still apply."

Groaning louder this time, Jim stepped away, sitting on the edge of his desk and rubbing his face with one hand. "Then what are we going to do?"

"It will not be permanent. Once Vulcan finishes establishing rules and accommodations for its citizens to be in Starfleet, the fraternization rules will change for bonded individuals. And if missions start to be years at a time, the rules will be changed as well. It is not practical to believe relationships will not form if the crew is in deep space for years at a time. We just have to wait."

Jim made a face that pretty much stated what his feelings were about not getting laid for the unforeseeable future.

"The worst case scenario will be the maximum of approximately three years."

Jim groaned again. "Why did I sign up for this again?"

"Jim," Spock started, he seemed hesitant but kept his voice steady and his gaze unwavering, "if you wish for me to transfer ships so I wasn't under your direct command …"

The human shook his head immediately. "Out of the question. I'd cut off my own dick before getting separated again. I'll deal. I managed two years, what's three more." Though he was trying to sound reassuring, Jim winced as he realized that would almost five straight years without sex minus the few nights after they reunited. "And you're right. If we aren't careful, they will separate us."

"I will ask my father, if he can expedite the conditions."

"That would be helpful." Jim's fingers brushed the Vulcan's wrist, feeling the warm, smooth skin then trailing down to Spock's fingertips before entwining their fingers.

"Jim?"

"I still can't believe you're here with me," he whispered. "The time in the game…it's only been two years, but sometimes, it feels like it never happened. On the Farragut, sometimes I wondered if it was real." He smiled softly. "But then I would feel you through the bond. Your love, your worry. Then I would hear how well you were doing at the academy, and I felt nothing but pride, and I couldn't wait to meet you in person. Longed for it. And when I met you for real, you were exactly as I remembered. I was relieved."

"I had similar feelings as well," Spock replied, brushing his thumb on the back of Jim's hand.

"I bet we can still have movie nights and "imply" that the area is off limits."

The corners of Spock's lips upturned just enough for Spock's amusement to come through. "I would be amendable to that."

"Can I accompany you back to your room, Commander?" Jim slid off his desk.

"You may."

They stayed hand in hand until the office door opened, and Spock pulled away. Jim had to remind himself it was for the best. "How are you adjusting?"

"There is much of human culture and colloquialisms that I must learn. Majority of the humans I have encountered appear to be friendly."

Jim stared at him. "And the minority?"

"Similar mindset to Lieutenant Marcus." Spock said stiffly.

A shadow passed over Kirk's face. "Any aboard the Enterprise?"

"I have yet to encounter anyone with that disposition aside from weariness and discomfort. I predict it will pass with time the longer I reside aboard the Enterprise."

Jim placed his hand on Spock's shoulder, forcing the Vulcan to stop and look at him. "If anyone bothers you, tell me, alright?"

"I will inform you if there is a problem."

"Good." They stopped in front of Spock's room. Jim stared at the door for a brief second. "Goodnight Commander," he said with friendly professionalism.

"Sleep well, Captain," he replied and entered into his room. The room was a good 10 degrees Celsius warmer than the rest of the ship, the lighting was tinged slightly red, and his few personal belongings decorated the walls. He planned to put the rest of his belonging on Vulcan in storage and lease his small living quarters while he was away once they reached the Vulcan starbase. He already had permission to beam down to do so. It would be strange to go back as he had not had the opportunity to since his hasty departure to rescue his mother.

Perhaps strange wasn't the right word. Earth was very different from Vulcan. Logically, he had known that before deciding to live there, but actually living there was something different. It was more damp and blue. There was a lot of wasted space and illogical objects, places, and things, and the humans had found him too emotionless. Opposite of everything Vulcan was. If he had not played ShiKahr before his arrival, he may have found it slightly overwhelming. However, the game still could not adequately prepare him for the interactions with the new species. Humans acted so differently in real life. He feared Jim would be different. He was relieved that Jim was still the same, a constant in his life and now his mind.

He mentally reached for the bond, feeling the dynamic mind on the other end skipping from one thought to another with rapid, dizzying succession. His bondmate was probably working on a problem. The thoughts stopped, and then a wave of love and affection washed over Spock. Jim was becoming proficient at projecting certain emotions now that the bond was strong and stable, though he still was unable to shield his half.

Spock returned the affection then muted the bond to give Jim his privacy, taking off his uniform. He folded each piece perfectly and placed them away neatly in his drawers, while sending the undergarments down the laundry chute. He almost didn't notice the blinking on his personal PADD, indicating he had a message. Curious, he picked up the PADD to check.

He had not used the PADD often since he was issued one from Starfleet. The only persons who had his personal IP address were Jim and Doctor McCoy. A few key strokes later and his eyebrows flew up in surprise.

A prank most likely. Human pranks often escaped him, and it was well within his capabilities to handle. There was no need to bother Jim over something so minor. Looking at the chronometer, he prepared for meditation, the note message still displaying on the screen: Satan's spawn, resign and return to the fiery pits of hell before we are forced to smite thee and save the innocents from your corruptions and lies. The wicked will receive what thee deserves.

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