Captain James T Kirk stood at the edge of the USS Enterprise's transporter room. A sense of anticipation hung in the air, amplified by the dull buzz of the ship's engines.

Despite having made first contact with many alien species, this was a unique situation. His translator, a crucial tool for communication, was broken beyond immediate repair.

The transporter room doors slid open, revealing Commander Spock. The Vulcan's expression was impassive, as always, but his eyes held a gleaming curiosity.

"Captain, are you ready to proceed without the translator?" Spock asked. Kirk nodded, determination solidifying his stance. "I was born ready, Spock," he replied with conviction.

An alien planet waited below, its inhabitants unknowing of their imminent first contact with an extraterrestrial being. Kirk stepped onto the transporter pad, his pulse steady.

The familiar shimmer enveloped him, and the iconic transporter sound filled the room. There was a brief moment of disorientation before he rematerialized on an alien world.

The landscape was a breathtaking mix of flora unlike anything he'd seen. Suddenly, a group of alien beings approached, their movements tinged with hesitance and curiosity.

Kirk stood still as the beings examined him. He raised his hand in a peaceful gesture, but their confused reactions made it clear they didn't understand the gesture.

The Captain decided to try another age-old symbol of peace. He lowered his hand, took a step back, and bowed respectfully. The aliens mirrored him, bowing back.

Encouraged, Kirk gestured towards the sky. He drew the Starfleet symbol in the air, pointing back to himself. They watched with multidimensional eyes, trying to comprehend.

It took hours of mental and physical strain, but Kirk began to understand the basic structure of their physical language. It was a dance of sorts, intricate and expressive.

As the sun set, one of the beings replicated the Starfleet symbol, pointing to Kirk. They were beginning to understand him too, bridging the gap between species.

Kirk felt a surge of relief, the initial steps of communication established. He studied their movements, their expressions, committing everything to memory for ongoing interactions.

The Captain spent the next few days with the aliens, eating their food, understanding their culture, learning their language. It was a steep learning curve, but Kirk was relentless.

He was able to convey his purpose, his peaceful intentions. He learned of their ways, their history, their ambitions. In turn, they displayed a keen interest in Starfleet.

During one of their meals, Kirk noticed a distress in the alien leader’s movements. The food, an extraordinary mix of alien ingredients, did not agree with his human biology.

But Kirk weathered the discomfort downplaying his distress. He did not wish to offend by rejecting their hospitality, understanding the importance of cultural exchanges.

The Captian's actions helped solidify the bond between him and the aliens. His persistence and resilience proving that he indeed comes with peaceful intentions.

Kirk continued to reciprocate their openness. The feeling of accomplishment was immense. He was achieving something unprecedented without a key tool of interstellar diplomacy, the translator.

The alien leader, in his unique way of showing gratitude, gifted Captain Kirk a token of their friendship. It resembled an intricate piece of native alien jewelry.

The time came to say his goodbyes, expressing his gratitude for their hospitality. Kirk knew this was the beginning of a significant relationship between the two species.

The Captain returned to the USS Enterprise, filled with experiences and stories. He was greeted by Spock, who raised an eyebrow at Kirk's alien token.

"Curious piece, Captain," Spock said. "A symbol of friendship from our new friends," Kirk replied, holding it up with a content smile on his face.

Spock nodded, acknowledging the significance. It was a testament to Kirk's tenacity, his adaptability–qualities that made him the ideal Captain for such diplomatic ventures.

Later, in his quarters, Kirk held the alien token, the weight of it reminding him of his role, his responsibilities, and his achievements. He felt proud.

The evening was spent drafting a detailed report for Starfleet Command, filled with his encounters and the potential for future alliances with the new species.

In the end, though he faced challenges, Kirk proved that first contact could be accomplished without a translator. It just took patience, perseverance, and a genuine willingness to understand.

With this in mind, Kirk settled into his seat on the bridge. As the Enterprise moved onto its next adventure, he couldn't help but feel hopeful for the future.

He knew that there would be more challenges ahead, more first contacts to be made. But he was ready, ready to face whatever the universe had in store.

"Captain's Log, Stardate 5296.4," Kirk began, his voice echoing through the bridge. "First contact with the Goralians...successful." His smile was full of pride and a sense of accomplishment.

As the Enterprise vanished into the vast cosmos, it left behind a small planet with a blue-violet population, forever changed by their encounter with a human named Kirk.

Back on Earth, Starfleet would receive Kirk's report, detailing his experiences. The tale of a Captain who made first contact without a translator would become a part of Starfleet lore.

Kirk had always believed that communication was not just about words. It was about understanding, respect, and empathy. He proved that to his crew, to Starfleet, and most importantly, to himself.

Kirk's story was not just about a successful first contact. It was a story of determination, resilience, and the power of human spirit. It was a story that truly signified the essence of exploration.

His adventures continued in the unchartered corners of the universe. But for now, the story of the translator-less first contact, was one entrusted to the stars.