Author's note: This is my first fanfic and I had tremendous fun with it. It is not finished yet, but any constructive criticism that would help me do better will be greatly appreciated. Since I am not a native english speaker I apologize for any grammar/spelling mishaps or possibly annoying repetitions in advance. I hope you will enjoy reading it, the up-date will follow shortly.

The teachers pet – or not

Uhura walked into her room. She was upset and Gaila picked that right up: »What happened? I told you to play nice with the other kids in the class!«

Uhura rolled her eyes and impatiently tossed her bag into the corner. »Uh, that Vulcan! He is seriously starting to get on my nerves.«

»You mean professor Spock, who put you on the spot last week with a question only a psychic could answer?«

Uhura nodded: »I would think he's got a problem with me, if I didn't knew better.«

Gaila shrugged her shoulders: »Well, I don't know about that but if you have a problem with him, maybe you should think about reporting him. What did he do today anyway?«

»He decided that although my analysis of historic development of suffixes in Klingon language was, and I quote: 'satisfactory, it was much below the expectations considering the enormous advantage of your natural comprehension and aural abilities, cadet Uhura. I believe it indicates a lack of dedication. Therefore I want you to do another paper by the end of the semester if you want a positive mark.' Can you believe it?«

»Interesting, « remarked Gaila with a smile, »a compliment wrapped in an insult. But one thing is for sure - it definitely shows that he noticed you.«

»Yeah, lucky me,« Uhura sighed with frustration. »Now I have to do nothing but slave off for two months - again. And my paper wasn't that bad at all!«

But Gailas plan was slightly different. »You know what you need? The happy hour at Coctail-way just started. And Layla's coming too, let's blow some steam, it's been a long time sence we had a decent ladies night!«

...

Spock was sitting at his desk reviewing the final papers when the door opened and revealed the slender figure of Dr. Elroy Terry.

Commander Terry was a man of ambition who thoroughly enjoyed attention. Although he was in his early forties he was already one of the most respected professors at the academy and a member of its council as well as many other intragalactic science boards. His ground-braking work in the field of communications studies was translated in most of the federation languages. He was strict yet attentive teacher. He was also known to be a charismatic and humorous companion, traits which made him welcome almost anywhere he chose to honor others with his presence. And, naturally, a magnet for the women.

Young officer Spock was a conundrum to him. He respected his intellect and academic achievements, but was mainly interested in the inner workings, the psyche of a child of two worlds.

»Ready, Mr. Spock?«

Spock raised his head: »I have not finished yet.«

»Oh, come on Spock! I'm not even sure anymore this desk isn't a part of your anatomy! You need a break, the papers will stay where they are unless there's a galactic apocalypse and in that case- you better go with me to enjoy the hours we have left!«

»As usual, your logic, Dr. Terry, is indisputable,« smiled Spock mildly. »Very well, I shall continue tomorrow.«

»That's the spirit, I knew my wingman wouldn't let me down,« Terry said jokingly.

»I'm sorry sir, I didn't realise you had an expedition in mind, I must admit I don't...«

Terry laughed: »Oh, it's an expedition alright, but one that is quite more challenging than the particular kind you have in mind. It involves a careful strategic planning, impeccable instinct and the agility of a Bajorian spitting-tiger.«

Spock raised his eyebrow, the complexities of human pranks eluded him.