Ten Days of Trek: Day 9

This is an entirely ship-based story, where the Enterprise is transporting a group of agitated diplomats to a conference regarding the inclusion of a planet into the Federation. Here we get our first glimpse of Spock's family and a taste of the conflict between his human and Vulcan halves. This episode is also a predessor to the narratives of TNG, with all of the Federation politics, dignitaries, etc. that Picard often dealt with. This is their first go-around, though, and we get a taste of intergalactic peace-keeping Kirk-style.

I admit a certain fascination with Spock's parents, particularly his father, Sarek. How does a Vulcan decide that a human is the most logical mate? Perhaps that line towards the end was one of those "married couple jokes," but I really do wonder how a Vulcan would come to that conclusion. Or how Vulcans decide on mates in general. But there really are more important things I should spend my time pondering.

I also really enjoy how Kirk has to trick Spock into giving up command. Spock's loyalty to his duty as 1st Officer were so strong that he was going to let his dad die. Not cool, Spock, not cool. He's an ambassador! Although they were in a tricky situation. Such a toss up. Good thing Kirk is so strong willed and able to pretend he's not in excrutiating pain while suffering from a punctured lung. Way to go, captain! Also, did I mention that Spock essentially blaimed his father for killing Gav? Sometimes the logical, Vulcan way isn't the right way. Oh well!

Stay tuned tomorrow for the best Star Trek episode of all time!
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