Contact 1 Challenge

Proposed in Contact #1 (December 1975). The winners to be published in the following issue. Requirements:

1. Be as brief as possible (no more than 5 pages, single spaced) and tie in all the details in the scene.
2. The scene itself must be part of your story - beginning, middle or end is up to you.
3. Winners will be chosen on the basis of originality, clarity, and adherence to the theme of this fanzine.
4. Deadline date for submissions is Feb. 15, 1976.

The scene:

Kirk backed out into the corridor. He knew he was trembling; he willed his legs to steady him. A gentle hand touched him on the shoulder and a familiar voice spoke the word, "Captain". Kirk turned to meet the piercing eyes of his First Officer. Pleadingly, he beseeched, "You saw, Spock?"

Spock nodded. "Yes. It is time."

Kirk fought off a rising panic. His hands felt as cold and clammy as the walls around him. He forced himself not to think, to concentrate on his breathing.

Spock lowered his eyes. For an instant he gripped the Captain's shoulder tightly, then he removed his hand. His voice was steady, quiet as he spoke.

"Jim - I'm sorry. I didn't…" He could not go on.