As is often the case, two factions are at war on a planet. Of course, Kirk finds himself in the middle of it. Unfortunately, one of the sides now has in its possession, flintlock rifles which give them an incredible advantage over their adversaries. The Klingons are behind this, helping one side with the purpose of later taking over the planet. While investigating, Kirk is attacked by a big ape with a horn. It has a kind of fast working venom that leaves him delirious and sick. Spock is also shot in the back by one of the men with the rifles. The people that rescue Kirk are a peaceful lot, generally. Among them is an old friend of Kirk's, a guy who will only fight as a last resort. He has a dark haired wife who wears fur underwear. She has her eyes on Kirk's phaser (sounds kind of nasty, doesn't it?). She figures if she uses her witching techniques on him and heals him, she will be rewarded with the weapon. Kirk can't allow that. This gets complicated when she hits him with a rock and takes it anyway. The issue ultimately involves whether Kirk should give weapons of equal strength to this friendly race. McCoy doesn't think so. Kirk believes a balance of power is necessary or one side faces annihilation. Pretty well done but quite schmaltzy.
Review of A Private Little War
