The Chess Game (Star Trek: TOS story by Islaofhope)

Also see Chess.

K/S Fanfiction
Title:	The Chess Game
Author(s):	Islaofhope
Date(s):	2005
Length:
Genre:	slash
Fandom:	Star Trek: The Original Series
External Links:	The Chess Game
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The Chess Game is a Kirk/Spock story by Islaofhope.

It was published online and then in the print zine Cyberdreams #2.

Summary

"On a cold, rainy afternoon in San Francisco, Kirk finds a way to keep Spock warm. This is sort of a sequel to T'Aaneli's and my story "Champagne.""

Reactions and Reviews

If you are not a chess fan, don’t be put off by the title of this story, as there isn’t much chess going on! It actually starts with Spock returning home, cold and wet to the apartment he shares with Kirk in San Francisco and details Jim’s attempts to cheer him up and help him get warm again. Although it doesn’t specifically state what timeframe this story is set in, its fairly clear from the text that its in the later part of Kirk and Spock’s life together, possibly after TMP, but before the Wrath of Khan as Kirk admits at one point to Spock that he dislikes “getting older”. In spite of this, there is certainly been no lessening of the intensity of the passion between them and it was nice to see Kirk and Spock still completely devoted to each other in later life with their passion for each other utterly undiminished, if events in this story are anything to go by! I must say that I thought this author’s depiction of a rather unusual game of chess between Kirk and Spock was highly original and very enjoyable – but to say any more would be to give the game away and spoil your reading pleasure so I shall say no more!

Well, I never mastered chess, but this kind of chess game I can really get into—at least as an observer! This established relationship story has such a nice loving touch right from the start. The weary traveler coming home to someone who adores and appreciates him. Who could ask for more? There’s no plot, or at least no underlying plot of intrigue or mystery, but there is an intricately woven design of affection, trust and passion. It’s enough for me. The pace reminds me of the old country-western song “Slow Hand”. It’s refreshing to see passion played out sweetly and languorously. It’s accomplished here, and without the frustration that often accompanies such an effort. There is never the urge for the reader to skip or want the story to move ahead more quickly because every sentence adds to the pleasure. Very nicely done!