never provide as much as when they hope.
Anatole France
Chapter 3
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savannas North Kordofan. 5:49 a.m.
Kirk was about to dawn when he woke up. He could see the yellow line of the sun just before emerging on the horizon, while all took shape in the dim light of the new day.
They stopped in a ditchseveral feet of dirt road that followed. Archer and Scotty were outside the car, along with other members of the convoy, reviewing several maps in the light of flashlights. Spock was not there, and only Chekov remained in place, having a cup of coffee had no idea where he might have succeeded. He moved a little, calling the attention of the young. This
turned toward him, smiling to discover awake.
"Hello, Mr. Kirk. Want a cup of coffee?
"I'd give my arm dight if I ask in return for it, stood up, feeling good and achieving the empty cup that will lay the young. While the coffee served in a small metal jug plugged into the cigarette lighter, turned out. What happens?
"They're stretching their legs and where it will be reviewing the following scale. There will shift.
- How did you organize?
"To my knowledge, each lead about ten hours, with one stop,course. Have handled nearly half of the first round and that there is still some way to get to breakfast.
Kirk squinted to give a drink to the bitter drink, waking up completely.
- Wow! Nothing beats a swig of coffee.
"I believe," seconded Chekov, drinking a bit too.
- Are you in the role of drivers? "He questioned, looking at Spock with his eyes.
"No, unless it is entirely necessary. The road through the valley is very treacherous, and I do not know. The storms that just passed it haccentuated dangerous. Nor will you be driving, "said the boy before he asked the American. Had not referred to in the role shift.
Kirk nodded thoughtfully. It was probably a good decision, since they do not know the terrain they would transit. But would not feel so out of place.
"Well, in case they need help, I can offer such relief.
At that time, Spock opened the door while talking to another member of the convoy. Carrying a bundle in his hands, which put it carefully in the back, next to baggage.
Bones -... I can assure you tand put an altar when I see "said the young man who was, watching the car's occupants. Hey, good morning! Do you have a little coffee?
Chekov nodded smiling, please request another cup for the newcomer. Kirk took the time to inquire about the package.
- What is that?
-A pending request. Belongs to Dr. Leonard McCoy. Customs held it for months, saying it was forbidden.
"You should have seen, the other young man joined the conversation. A whole lípolitical or a pair of socks and some personal effects. Bones was angry for weeks, until he resigned.
"Well, I too would be furious in a situation like this," Kirk said, trying to imagine what happened. Is this Dr. McCoy is also Amnesty or the Red Cross?
-Red Cross volunteer, "said the diplomat, reaching the cup offered Chekov. Thanks. A doctor in charge of Al-Fasher camp nearly six months. It was a great help in that area ...
— And the devil is a genius! "Continued the other with his chatter. Kirk just smiled at the obvious discomfort that showed Spock for that comment.
"Mr. Reed is not necessary to manifest the defects of your co-workers. Do not make such accusations, please.
- Gentlemen, time to go! Archer-announced one side of the convoy, while Scotty was some evidence the other cars. Get ready to go! We still need many hours and many miles to go! CH
Kirk TMLXC then remembered that he had not fallen for anything in the car, and should answer the call of nature.-Uh ... Give me two minutes. I have not been a. ..
"Hurry, Mr. Kirk. Mr. Scotty is a little impatient, "advised the rookie, reaching the American Cup to allow him down. He just nodded, hurrying.
Minutes later, the convoy returned to terregoso and uncertain path, with all possible precautions to avoid being spotted by patrolling troops.
already underway, the American returned to the topic of conversation interrupted by the announcement minutes before departure.
-Spock, Dr. McCoy this ... -Started without knowing exactly what to ask. The aforementioned and Archer turned toward him to hear. Is it too American?
"As long as Scotty, Jonathan and you.
- Bones? Archer-questioned with a smile, intruding on the conversation. It's a great guy. What about him?
-regained a part of what Customs stopped him. I was told that the rest could get in a weekto Maso less. As I see it, I will give the package and the news.
"I'll make you very happy," he emphasized Archer. Hopefully that will remove the bad mood. Kirk
again smiled at the faintest shadow of anger Spock. Scotty spoke up.
"Oh, come on. Bones do not have a bad temper just because. Any of us would have done the same tantrum if the inability of the Sudanese customs would have caused us to take his half of the luggage.
-Bones live forever angry, if you do not know, "said Archer, but he turned smiling to the other two pasajeros. But as I said, it's a great guy, really. You will notice when they know well.
Kirk decided to divert the issue of physician humor somewhere else.
- Why they call "Bones"?
The four traveling companions turned to see him caught.
- Do not you know? "Scotty was the one who asked, and then, gave an indication rookie cameraman. Andrei, explain to James that. Chekov
acquired a solemn, and after taking a little air, proceeded to theexplained.
-In American military parlance, the term "bones" are given to physicians campaign, found on the front line. Generally, outside of war situations, they are given this appointment to the managers of the hospitals in conflict zones in places and natural disasters, and even, in extreme sportsmanship activities, although this is not common.
- See? Always with a response like yours, Scotty-ended comment Archer, as if it were something completely logical. E
n encyclopedia format. CHTMLX C Chekov blushed, but also held the joke along with his companion and Kirk. Spock just smiled, waiting for the next question you might ask the American.
did not take long for that to happen.
- How long has Dr. McCoy is here?
"He came near the end of March, one of the last shipments made by the international community legally.
I do not know how true this time either, "said Scotty," but say they came borracCuba ho as the airport.
- Al French, or here?
"Both. I guess the raw grabbed was phenomenal.
Ignoring the comments, the diplomat went on to give some other details to Kirk.
-Almost a month after the arrival of Dr. McCoy to the camp, Sudan closed its border to shipments of NGOs and Red Cross, fifteen days later restricted diplomatic visas and passes. He did not allow any shipment, whether of food or medicine.
— Does that mean that we have an illegal shipment? "Queried Kirk somewhat uneasy. Is that why we hide from patrols?
"Not exactly," said Archer. Even if your shipment or your luggage are legal, all the time watch out patrols, both as the janjaweed militia. We bring to the sight of what is legal, and nobody needs to know the rest.
-
Actually, Jim, do not carry the entire load. We arrive at Al-Fasher airport to pick up what is lacking food, essential drugs for the treatment of cholera and other gastro diseasesbowel caused by contaminated water and food, wound infections -enlisted air Spock frustrated, Archer's comment refuting. The rest are bandages, healing material, antiseptics, and a limited number of vaccines. The loading is entirely legal, but not enough. We went to a camp that houses possibly around ten thousand people, I do not know for sure. Kirk nodded more he spoke, giving another question.
-
Let's see, a moment. I'm going to see me too ignorant, but that you said I am not familiar. CHTM patrols ...LXCjanjaweed " ? - Do we need another explanation encyclopedic, Jim? Scotty asked suspiciously.
Kirk smiled, accepting the second time his ignorance."I'm afraid so. I had never heard of it.
-Ok.
Chekov ... Again, attentive and all smiles, the boy explained what the term meant.
-
guerrilla groups are recruited from the Arab villages, previously mounted on camels andhorses, now equipped with jeeps.
Janjaweed means armed horseman. Before they were called that the bandits and cattle rustlers nomadic regions. Now it says are responsible for attacks on villages and towns, with all the authority that the government has given them as a kind of militia ... "Thank you, Andrei," interrupted Scotty, before it expanded its explanation.
Kirk realized that this time there was no funny comments when the boy finished speaking. Archer remained in a hermetic silence while watching outward LEFT handBEI fist against his chin. Spock watched him furtively, and both the driver and his apprentice were silent, staring ahead at the other cars that preceded them."I guess this from the Janjaweed militia is a sensitive issue," said the journalist finally, trying not to start some kind of conflict.
"Pretty tricky, Jim. We prefer not to mention as long as possible, "he said Scotty, seeing in the mirror.
Kirk nodded, leaning back in his place again.
"I'll remember. Thanks for the explanation ó n.
Spock turned to him again, in a somewhat confidential.
"I recommend you return to sleep. The journey to the villages of the valley of Kordofan is difficult. As we're there, I will tell you more about it.
"I'll sleep later. Do not want to miss the scenery of this place.
saying, he decided to take some pictures in the dim light of dawn. Then sat the camera, focusing on a camel caravan was seen in the distance, silhouetted against the horizon and the strip of grass that bordered an area you wantarctic and Stony Plain.
central region of North Kordofan.
A few kilometers from the first village. 9:10 a.m.
"Well .... Now, push! "Saying this, Nyota accelerated gradually.
Sunk in the mud to the ankles, the four men stationed at different places around the car followed the order, pushing with all-wheel drive forces while doing its part. But there was a great movement of same within the huge muddy puddle in which they were stranded.
"I think it will be nearly impossible to remove the strings. Are insufficient.
- but is supposed to bring enough rope
emergency
how are you! Archer replied angrily. T'Pol was with them, with one of the ropes in their hands, still wrapped.- is that not enough! Scotty-refuted, and hysteria-tinged voice. If we put the vehicles will be three of the stuck and not just one.
returned along with Spock Kirk and Chekov tosome rocks and some weeds that had gathered, watching the debate.- What have you decided? Spock asked to see that nobody has tried something else.
- That being a rescue team, you need not bring ourselves! It's ridiculous! Archer shouted. Kirk
left what was in their hands, and before the eyes of others intrigued, took off his boots and socks, rolled up his trousers to the knees. Then, hit the rocks again and entered the pool, walking with cautionn to the vehicle. Nyota saw him go to them, also surprised, but smiled hopefully.
- you be the hero of the day? Asked to have it on one side of the front wheel.
"No," Kirk said with a charming smile, extending one of the stones that led to the men who were also there. What happens is that this was something the entire rainy season on the farm with my parents. It is very difficult to recover a vehicle from the mud if you know what to do.
Spock followed him, reaching out to them almost in myAMS Kirk conditions.
"We have to put on the front tire," said the American, going to the nearby wheel. If necessary, dig. Scotty, Jonathan! Prepare the strings!
Chekov was the last to arrive with them, but once there, he worked diligently. It took almost half an hour, at times making it the SUV to go forward. With the strength and cooperation of everyone in the convoy, along with the other two cars, managed to rescue the vehicle and its load.
already out of the pond, filled with mud everywhere, Kirk and Spock ad castscansive to one side of the car they were traveling. For its part, Scotty helped his apprentice to clean with some water bottles. The others did the same, a few meters away from the place. Kirk noted
attentive to where they were Archer and his assistant, realizing it was not just that. There was something more between them than just a working relationship. However, his remarks were cut when the diplomat spoke.
"A great team," admitted Spock to what they had done. It is a sign of good leadership, Jim. Precise orders, spiritcooperation ...
"It was not a big deal," said the U.S. without giving much importance, reviewing a huge rip in his shirt. Sparks, this makes three ...
Uhura came to them then.
"I come to thank my rescuers," he said, leaning Spock to sit beside him. She leaned on her chest, depositing a light kiss on her lips. Honey, you know African mud. Kirk
fun seeing them, and demanded similar treatment.
- And the mastermind will not get a kiss? "With expression & amp; oacute n serious, Spock gave him a sour look, but not said a word. Instead, Nyota smiled and shook his head. Kirk did not lose courage, and returned to the fray. Well, you could give to your fiance, and it is he who passes me. A reward is a reward, and I have no problem with that. Now, it could be by both. Two instead of one ...
Spock coughed a little surprised at the comment.
- Go! That has left us a hero sexual bread! She cried, laughing. Kirk smiled
sympathetically. His blue eyes seemed to shine more because of that brief moment of happiness.
"You just change my whole perspective I had of you, Jim," said the diplomat after recovering from the shock.
"Anyway, thank you very much for getting me out of the mud," said Uhura, rising swiftly. I recommend that you clean and prepare to leave. We have already lost much time in this incident, and my stomach is complaining.
"Yes, ma'am," joked Kirk, rising too with some pErez. However, granted a little privacy, saying it would seek another shirt and a bottle of water to wash it too.
Minutes later, Spock joined him beside the car. He helped hold the bottle as he removed the mud of the forearms, slightly bent forward. No longer watch with a mixture of doubt and indecision in his eyes. Until she decided to speak.
"I have a bit curious ...
- Regarding what I said about my preferences? "The reporter looked up at him, smiling with an air p í expensive. Do you have a problem with that, Spock?
The diplomat did not move when Kirk got up and approached him more than they should, emphasizing what he said. He only smiled cryptically, handing the bottle even with a little water.
"No one, Jim. ... It's just that I find fascinating that such a small group, the variety of thoughts and behaviors is so extensive, still talking, he leaned a little and proceeded to wash when the U.S. dropped on their hands water jet. The pReferences should not be discrimination between individuals. Much less between us.
"I agree," said Kirk, opening another bottle. Also, do not think I'm one of those who go and look for opportunities worldwide. Handling only who gives me permission.
- It's good to know that! "Said her companion with both eyebrows raised. He hurried to clean the forearms, ending the conversation. I think we can go. I will tell Scotty. Kirk watched
taking leave open the bottle to his lips. Drankremaining liquid, smiling rogue and cynical, thinking that if he wanted to be, sooner or later could have those two in bed. During the remaining leg, with a trace of nervousness, Spock was limited only to discuss work, and he stopped smiling stupidly as I listened.
high region of South Kordofan.
Sunset Cruise on the first day. Archer
so unexpectedly stopped the car alongside the road terregoso, hurried out of the thicket into which protrude & iacute; in between several large rocks.
- Good heavens! -Called Scotty, waking up to feel that they were moving. It is the fifth time we stop! What happens? We'll be hours late if it continues! Middle
"I'm afraid that something on food has fallen ill.
- And already taken any medication? -PregKirk rubbed with a bit of concern.
"Yes, but it seems the infection has not subsided. I'll have to relieve it from here. Did not look good.
Archer returned minutes later, the worst aspect that had been in the car. Spock took off his belt and down, around the vehicle.
-Jonathan, I recommend that you rest for the antibiotic to take effect.
"That's going to comment you," replied the patient in a trembling voice. He was pale and trembling slightly,Despite the intense heat, fine droplets of cold sweat beading his brow. Could go in the back? I would sleep the rest of the journey. Kirk
also fell, and when I heard he was solicitous to leave a space. He spent some of the suitcases and bags to the middle seat, where was his place until then, making sure not bother the other two, and prepared a sort of bed with a sleeping bag. Spock helped him, and together they attended before leaving Archer asleep, with a good supply of bottled water, serum and antibiotics at their disposal. It sure
they will not stop except to the extent necessary, climbed into their respective places in front of the ATV. Kirk reached a camera, a recorder and a strange bag he was carrying, and as he settled into the passenger seat, the new driver watched with some curiosity.
"I guess sick so common in these regions," said the American to finish. "Pretty
more common than you think. If you are not used, these infections can kill you.
"Sure. Archer looked fatal.
"I hope theand serum medication to help you recover, in addition to rest.
-improving, no doubt, "Kirk said while taking a picture of Spock at the wheel. The decline began to emerge on the horizon ". It was a good decision to tell the other cars that did not stop.
"I agree. I just hope they do not have trouble following the route marked.
He sees that Tucker is working on that to follow maps. We should not worry, besides carrying the radios. Took another photograph of the middle seat occupants, who were still asleeps-. If something happens, please contact us.
"You're not the man you seem frivolous to blow," said the diplomat. Kirk got the camera with uncertain expression. Why try to shield you in that picture, Jim?
-Professionalism, I think, shrugged, trying to downplay his own question and answer. He changed the subject with another question. How far are we ahead?
-are supposed to be three days away, "he said, giving evasive well aware of the journalisthad tried. We took a night and day, so we get to the city of Al-Fasher early morning, and if conditions and circumstances permit and continue to advance, stopping only to refuel, could owners get to camp at dusk, or maybe when everyone is asleep.
- Nearly a half Diaye could say?
"Yes," she admitted, turning to him after evading a huge bump. This gives us approximately a half Diaye to speak.
Kirk's gaze returned to the expresion indecipherable, this time accompanied by a very slight smile.
"That means you will continue to insist on questioning.
-I tend to be persistent. Living with reporters for several years has left me some lessons, Spock smiled, this time without taking your eyes off the road. I propose something. Will be a day Quid Pro Quo. Same number of questions answered, denied the same number of questions.
Kirk took another picture just as turned around to see it without leaving that strange smile. That decided him.
"Okay.Shoot.
Spock was silent a few seconds, and then threw the question with something other than a comment.
"When I saw you in the conference room, I had the impression that you're a first-time correspondent. Did not do a lot of questions, most of the sessions wouldst only grades and interviews. I know you know a little of the "official" language of the country, but do not know the other three. And this leads me to wonder, why did you decide to come and write on this subject without knowing it in depth?
Kirk did not immediately respond, thinking andn the best way to protect your answers without lying too.
"It's my first assignment as a correspondent. I was not coming, but another journalist from the Herald with more experience, but there were certain conditions that he did not cover, and I do. Now, the whole time we were there, you can not deny that the information used was insufficient to have a good story. Most diplomats and nationals from other African countries not cooperating with the press, and we were not given much freedom to set up interviews, the driver nodded, acknowledging the truth. My desirecoming to this place, to cover the events that have occurred, is precisely to make this news and decisions are made about it in the world. I came because I wanted to write about what happens here, and not just settle for what others tell me.
-What you call "professionalism," Spock's smile was almost gone, "is your attempt to get the Pulitzer with this?
Kirk sat in his chair in a gesture a bit aggressive.
Quid Pro Quo ", Spock. Do not get ahead.
"I'm sorry," the diplomat notedattitude. I await your questions.
- How do you become an activist for this cause? Your appearance and attitude make one think you are a candidate perpetual desk embassy.
- My appearance? I do not think that has to do with my actions. "There were a few seconds, and continued to turn his eye to the road. My parents are ambassadors. All my life I've been involved in international politics, and I can not remain inactive at the seriousness of what is happening here. I first came to Africa when I was a teenager, and I was shocked to see about girlse, I and my young age almost doomed to not survive losing their dreams and their dignity. I have a list of active units in similar cases in several African countries, and I hope to continue to accrue for a long time.
-Wow, I think age doing this.
-is most likely. There was a brief silence, before Spock took his turn. Do you think then return to America as you have your story?
"Indeed. Darfur is not the only news on the planet. Now ... Do you know how the doctor? & MDAsh; launched the question point blank, referring to Uhura.
Spock smiled again.
-Noto
an unhealthy interest in your party to learn about our relationship, Jim. You're not thinking ...?- Me? No! Of course not! I'm not a pervert.
"Okay, I will trust your word. I met just over three years, at the beginning of the conflict. She was a Red Cross volunteer, and I of Amnesty International. Between them and the committee that monitored the aid to the inhabitants of the region, camNtama the first camp. And while working on the project, we realized we had common interests. So we decided to initiate the relationship.
- And no ...?
"My turn," he chided Mr. Kirk to see who tried to continue. I repeat the question I tackled a few minutes ago. "Recognition and Pulitzer, humanitarian or real journalism?
The American flushed more recomposed almost immediately. Do not hesitate to give the answer.
"All journalists looking for the Pulitzer. Everything else is secondary sometimes. CHTMLX
C-I met people from the press do not think about awards, he refuted Spock. They work as a service to others and never expect to even be recognized.
"I always said that everyone has a price, and I checked all the time. As much as you proclaim selfless human beings seek recognition at all. Spock saw
intensely ATV slowing down for a moment. He did everything possible not to show Kirk's disappointment that this response had caused.
"Maybe not quite agree with you, but a matter of views.
& mdash, Oh, come on! Will not you tell me now that I've broken my heart!
"Of course not. Just thought you were different. I usually do not much wrong with my comments, but sometimes it happens. Well, your turn "he said, changing the topic of conversation. Kirk
not speak for a long minute, without taking his eyes off her. Spock said nothing, giving the time to reflect.
Finally, the U.S. decided to leave the treatment side.
-over with the personal questions, Spock. I fear that could go wrong with each other, and do not want that to happen.
"A wise decision, Jim.
- Can you tell me more of the place where we go from here?
The driver smiled honest sympathy, nodding.
----------------------------------------- - CONTINUED ...
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