I love that you posted this to ffnet after having it originally published in 1984 (!) I love this as a possible introduction between Spock and Pike. I like that you incorporated Star Fleet’s blatant xenophobia and political bureaucracy into it.

Just another great Pike and Spock story worth reading again!

Wonderful story!

Great Idea in many respects. Interesting to see what would be the start of what was evidently a strong bond.

This is a great story, nicely plotted.

Sorry to hear that Starfleet Academy is so xenophobic and so sensitive to political pressure, but glad that Spock has a champion in Pike. This story does help to explain the strength of Spock's motivation for the events of "The Menagerie."

Excellent story. Thanks.

Still rereading - while I wait for the snow to melt. There's still nearly a foot of the white menace in my front yard. I've always thought this was one of your best short stories. What an insight into why Spock felt he owed Pike, and held him in such high regard. And by the way, I really am an old timer. I read it first in Masiform D. Much more convenient to
Read on the iPhone, but I do miss the illos.

loved this as well! Pardon me while i continue to make my way through your stories.

I love this and I am now very curious to read other stories of yours. Exceptional idea, exceptionally written.

Go, Spock, go. Brilliant. Thanks for the read.

That was superb! We definitely need more Captain Pike stories, thank you.

This was a cool story, thanks.

Aw, yay for a Spock champion! That was very nicely written and fun to read. I totally empathized with both Pike and Spock during this. Thank you.

I thoroughly enjoyed this story. I feel that young Spock may have been slightly OOC, but it was a well-written story of his younger days and a pleasant read.