He was not so sure that the force-field entirely was making an odd sensation run up from his hands to his shoulders, and subsequently to crawl down his spine. Illogical--excitement? If he said it aloud, that might make it true.

"That you are to be assassinated by James Kirk, who will subsequently take captaincy of the Enterprise. Then--" He hoped Jim would not burst in here and question him for what he was about to say. "--after a time, I will dispose of him, and assume the title of Captain myself."