nexus_crossings | (no subject)

(no subject)

As the temperature keeps dropping in the Nexus, a certain elderly Vulcan just keeps adding more cloaks to his attire. Some people may find humor in his excessive bundling but he and the cold are not overly fond of each other. Luckily there are ways to keep warm even in the increasing chill. The Plaza has no shortage of those little outdoor heating lamps set up alongside many of the couches that somehow manage to remain free of snow and frost despite the dip in temperature.

He could swear it was a might bit warmer here in the Plaza than it is anywhere else in the Nexus.

Spock only hesitates a moment before unsnapping the collar of his hooded coat so that he can speak and be heard properly. His bulky mittens don't seem to get too much in the way of that at least.

"What is an adequate gift to give someone you've not seen in a very long time?"

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"It was a difficult time for all of us. Harry and I had spent most of a year on the run. But I always carried my books with me." Hermione taps a small beadless bag at her side, that doesn't look big enough to hold any books.

"So who are you gift looking for? Maybe I can help?"

Perhaps books are smaller in Hermione's world? Or are stored on data pads. Her purse seems large enough for one of those, certainly. Actual paper books are a bit of a rare thing in Spock's time so he does not jump to conclusions about that.

"An old, old friend. He was the captain of the ship we were both stationed on for many years. We were separated due to a situation beyond our control, but I've recently discovered him living here in the Nexus."

"Oh. That is exciting that you have reunited with him."

"What are his interests?"

"Indeed." And Spock smiles just a little bit. It's not much of a change to his face, but it's practically ear to ear grinning for a Vulcan.

"Jim has many interests. Chess, exploration, reading, puzzles, adventure. Meeting new people. Model ships. Antiques. His is a curious insatiable mind."

"Jim?" Hermione tilts her head. She knows two Jims that are Captains of a certain Starfleet Ship. And the interests that Spock describes matches some of the things that both Jims are also interested in.

So she just has to equate what they might like, plus add the factor that this is an older version, and she could make an educated guess on what he would like.

Hermione reaches into her beaded bag, and pulls out a book (that is larger than the bag itself). The title is "The Tales of Beedle the Bard". "This is a Wizarding classic. And is full of puzzles, adventure, and learning new stories. I think he would enjoy it. A lot."

Well, now. There is a sight Spock had not intended to see. His previous assumptions about the books she carries are quite incorrect. He did not see her use her conduit device this time, nor did she appear to be rummaging around in the small bag. A transporter?

Surely not, if she's only just learning how to use a computer.

The book itself is also curious. It's not written by anyone Spock has heard of, and the binding has an air of quality to it that would be very rare and valuable indeed in his time.

"You...do not mind giving me this? I'm afraid I haven't anything to offer in exchange."

"Not at all. That is not the original copy. I keep the First Edition in a safe place..." Hermione taps her beaded bag. "It was bequeathed to me by Albus Dumbledore, former headmaster of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry."

"During the War, I spent sometime translating the original copy, since it was written in runic. And that copy is written in Modern English, with an introduction, notes, and illustrations."

"It should make for a great gift for your friend."

"I will handle this with care, as will Jim I'm certain. Thank you."

Such a generous woman. Spock makes a note to try and find a way to repay such kindness to her and to Crookshanks. Knowing how much Jim loves books and adventure, Spock is certain it will be a good gift for his t'hy'la.

"I will let you know how he liked it once he's read it."

"Here..." Hermione writes out her PINpoint contact information. And holds it out to Spock.

"If your Jim would like to meet me, I would be happy to make his acquaintance. As I am sure Crookshanks would enjoy finding another lap to lay in."

Crookshanks twitches his ears at his name. He looks up and chirps. Are they leaving? He is comfortable...

"Thank you Hermione. Crookshanks." Spock gives the witch a grateful nod but makes no move to get up.

"I think I will stay here for a while longer and enjoy the warmth you've created here. It would be a shame to waste it."

Crookshanks gets off Spock's lap, stretches, and then gives him a fond rub goodbye.

"Certainly. It will last about three hours." Because Hermione knows how it feels when a Hot Air Charm warns without notice.

"Have an excellent day." And she heads off, towards the Grand Library.

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