What the Heart Knows - Conclusion

Disclaimer: The characters are the property of Paramount and were created by Kate Mulgrew, Jeri Ryan and the wonderful cast of Star Trek: Voyager. This is strictly a non-profit operation: the rewards are in the writing and feedback. If you’re under 18, or have a problem with consenting adults in a same-sex relationship, now is the time to find something else to read.

 

Rating: NC-17 (for Part 2, Part 1 is PG)

 

Acknowledgements: I cannot thank Laura (Knightstorm) or LZClotho enough for their phenomenal beta-reading skills, encouragement and late-night hand-holding. Sophia did the marvelous graphics and I cannot thank her enough for capturing the spirit of this story.

 

 

What the Heart Knows

By BeachBum

 

 

Chakotay’s anger as he sat in the command chair on Voyager’s bridge was palpable. The entire bridge staff had heard Seven of Nine’s communication with him and his ensuing expletives. He began calling up Seven’s data files as he hailed the EMH.

 

“Bridge to Sickbay.”

 

“Sickbay here, Commander. Please state the nature of…”

 

“Doctor, you examined Seven of Nine last night. Is she showing signs of a Borg psychotic episode? I just had a communication from here that was WAY over the top.”

 

“What do you mean?” asked the Doctor with a slight hesitation.

 

“She ORDERED me to recall all the crew on the surface and ready Voyager to leave orbit immediately with absolutely no reason. She said something about downloading data and then beamed down to the trade talks. Tell me, is she having some kind of breakdown?”

 

Chakotay began reading the file Seven had sent to the command station. The Doctor, meanwhile, was sticking to the story he’d given Janeway the night before.

 

“I detected some power fluctuations in her cortical node, but no, they weren’t significant and certainly nothing like the overloads I’ve seen previously. I know she was deep in research about a threat she perceived from…”

 

“SHIT!!”  Chakotay cut him off.

 

“Commander? What’s going on?” cried the EMH.

 

“Ready Sickbay for possible casualties, Doctor. Bridge out!” the First Officer leapt to his feet and started barking orders at the bridge staff.

 

“Yellow alert!  Ops, I want constant scans of the Premier’s residence. Helm, plot a course out of Ma’altarean space by the fastest means possible.” He slapped his comm badge. “Chakotay to Engineering. Bring the impulse engines and warp core online. I want us to be ready to leave orbit within half an hour. Save your questions for later and get this done NOW. Understood?”

 

“Yes sir. Half an hour. Engineering out.”

 

“Tactical, ready all weapons systems and deflector arrays. We might not be leaving on good terms and I want this ship secure when we leave orbit. And engage an emergency beam-out for all crew members on the surface. I want everybody accounted for by the time we need to get out of here. Clear?”

 

“Yes sir!”

 

“Harry, contact Neelix and get a status on his re-supply. Notify him we’re bugging out and get him back here right now.” Chakotay’s eyes grew wider as he continued to read what Janeway could be facing. This kind of savagery just wasn’t possible any longer, was it? Not in any civilized society. But the file indicated that while the Rite of Mal’Torpaq had fallen into disuse, it was perfectly legal. Seven’s conclusions on the Ma’altarean fascination with Kathryn’s hair color and how it would serve as an impetus for the ritual dovetailed with his recollections from the dinner on Voyager and last night’s state banquet. It seemed that everyone there could barely keep from reaching out and touching the captain’s hair. She had responded graciously, but he remembered her unspoken annoyance at the unwanted attention. Yet no one but Seven of Nine had attached any sinister motives to it. His stomach churned at the thought of what Janeway might be subjected to. Not even the Cardassians were that brutal.

 

“Harry! Any word from the away team? Try the High Council Chambers; maybe they can get a message through to them!”

 

Oh god…please let Seven be wrong…

 

 

Captain Janeway was still speechless from the audacity of Seven of Nine’s entrance. She turned as she felt the Premier lightly touch her arm.

 

“Captain, you must accompany me to the Council area of the table immediately. Your very life may be at stake.”

 

“My Lord Premier, I admit I don’t understand what’s going on, but I’m not going anywhere until I have a few pointed words with my officer over there.” She indicated Seven of Nine with a nod of her head.

 

“Captain, please, I cannot stress this enough, you MUST come with me. Without my protection and that of my guards, you will not survive this day.” He pulled Janeway away from the table as she attempted to free herself from his grasp.

 

Tuvok realized the danger the captain was in from the expression on the Premier’s face. This was deadly serious, however much the captain chose to downplay it.

 

“Captain, perhaps it would be wise to accompany the Premier. Lt. Torres and I will confer with Seven of Nine and join you in a moment.” He gently pressed Janeway in the direction the Premier was indicating. She frowned at him but moved along with the Premier and his guards.

 

Tuvok turned to B’Elanna. “We need to find out what’s going on right now,” he said as they went to where Seven of Nine stood glaring at the Ma’altarean military men. “Seven, what is this Rite of Mal’Torpaq?” he asked of the menacing Borg. So fiercely was she focused on Pal’quaar and his men that he had to clasp her arm to get her attention. She started at his touch. With an effort she dragged her eyes away from the Warrior Prime and looked at Tuvok and Torres.

 

“He is claiming the captain as his mate. I have claimed the right to defend her. If he defeats me, he will be allowed to violate her in every way possible. Very likely right here; in front of witnesses. It will cement his claim to her.”

 

B’Elanna couldn’t believe her ears. “VIOLATE her? What the hell do you mean by that?”

 

Seven of Nine looked straight into her eyes and replied with chilling calm. “He will rape her B’Elanna. Vaginally, orally and anally. It is his right if he is the ‘victor’. Then he will slice off her labia and clitoris. She will not survive.” Her eyes were as cold as ice.

 

Torres blanched and looked as if her breakfast was about to make a re-appearance. Tuvok remained impassive.

 

“Seven, you must allow me as Chief of Security to fight the Warrior Prime.”

 

“No, Tuvok. Voyager cannot make it back to the Alpha quadrant without you and B’Elanna. You must continue to protect the captain and Voyager. B’Elanna, you know as well as I do that only you can keep Voyager flying long enough to return home.  Lt. Kim and Ensign Tal Celes can run Astrometrics. I am the expendable one.  It must be me.”

 

“Seven, how will we know who the ‘victor’ is in this fight?” asked Torres.

 

“Whichever of us is still alive.”

 

“You can’t be serious! Tuvok, tell her she’s nuts!”

 

Tuvok regarded the ex-drone calmly as she stripped down to her tank top and handed her cargo jacket to B’Elanna. “I believe that Seven has already analyzed all pertinent arguments, Lt. Torres. She is making the logical choice.”

 

B’Elanna stared at him in astonishment.

 

“Have you had an opportunity to study Pal’quaar, Seven?”

 

“Not enough, Tuvok. Do you have you some advice?” she asked as the three of them watched the enormous Ma’altarean brandish a wicked-looking weapon called a Tarva’al Paq. It was a giant scimitar with a ten-inch honed spike coming down from the razor sharp curved blade.

 

“I believe at some point he has sustained a serious injury to his leg. He will not be able to move to his left as quickly as to his right.”

 

“I understand. Tuvok, do you have a tactical baton with you?”

 

He removed a slender nine-inch duranium cylinder from a hidden flap on his thigh and handed it to her. She flicked her wrist; it extended and locked in place at 24 inches. There was an elongated knob at the tip.

 

“Kahless,” breathed B’Elanna. “You ARE crazy. You’re going up against that monster with only a tactical baton??”

 

Seven gave a miniscule smile. “Not only a tactical baton. I have a Borg enhancement that will also prove useful.” She gave a barely noticeable flick of her left wrist and immediately the mesh of her left fingers solidified and extended beyond her fingertips into five inch serrated cutting blades. Another almost imperceptible flick and it was merely her mesh hand again. B’Elanna’s eyes bugged out.

 

“That’s interesting. How come none of us have ever seen that little trick before?”

 

“It was designed as a cutting tool for conduit and cable. It works equally well as a weapon,” said Seven with that same small smile. She turned to face Tuvok.

 

“You have been an excellent teacher and mentor, Tuvok. I thank you for all you have given me and for your friendship. Live long and prosper.” She held up her hand with the third and fourth fingers spread in the familiar Vulcan gesture.

 

Tuvok returned it. “You have been a most logical pupil and good friend, Seven of Nine. You will be remembered as a daughter of my house so long as my line survives. Live long and prosper.”

 

Tears formed in B’Elanna’s eyes as she realized that Seven was saying goodbye. She and Seven clasped forearms firmly and Seven said “DaHjaj Suvwl’e jiH.” Today I am a Warrior

 

“vaD quv vo’’oH,” For the Honor of it, replied B’Elanna.

 

“DaHjaj’oH QaQ jajDaq Hegn,” Today is a good day to die. This time Seven smiled fully. “Thank you for being my friend B’Elanna Torres.” Her gaze turned almost wistful for a moment. “B’Elanna…if sometime you think it right…please tell the Cap-…please tell Kathryn…that I loved her.”

 

“Kill this p’taq quick and tell her yourself, you damned Borg. She’d rather hear it from you,” grinned B’Elanna through the tears.

 

Seven faced them both. “As soon as you reach the Premier, have him lower the security shields around the residence. If I fall, beam the captain back to the ship immediately. Do not hesitate or try to help me. The Captain’s life depends on this. Voyager is preparing to leave orbit now. Get out of Ma’altarean space as quickly as possible.” She nodded to them, turned and strode to face Pal’quaar in the center of the room.

 

 

Janeway stared in disbelief at the Premier as he attempted to give her a sanitized version of the ritual Pal’quaar had invoked. She glanced toward her officers and frowned as she saw Seven and Tuvok give each other the traditional Vulcan sign of farewell, saw her clasp B’Elanna’s forearm in the Klingon fashion and then march to the center of the room. As Tuvok and Torres turned and walked toward her she shifted her gaze back to the Premier.

 

“This is ridiculous. Isn’t there anybody on this planet who can stop this madness?”

 

“Captain, my guards and I will give you all the protection we can. But if your officer is killed…”

 

“KILLED??  If you think I’m going to just stand by and do nothing while one of my officers is murdered in some insane ancient rite you are sadly mistaken!”

 

“Captain Janeway…it is our LAW. No one can interfere. Once the Rite has been invoked any interference is punishable by death.”

 

Janeway gaped at him aghast. This was pure savagery…the death penalty?? It was inconceivable to her. She had yet to realize the implications for her personally.

 

As Tuvok and B’Elanna rejoined them the Vulcan leaned close to the Premier and murmured “You must order the security shields lowered, My Lord. If Seven of Nine falls we will have little time to get Captain Janeway out of here.”

 

The Premier nodded and beckoned to a nearby aide. “If we move quickly enough you may be able to beam your Borg out before she is killed. My staff and I will face the consequences.” He quietly ordered the aide to go to the Security offices of the Residence and initiate a shutdown of the security grid. “It will take several minutes to disengage security protocols and re-initialize the system. I hope it isn’t too late.”

 

The Prelate of the Temple of Justice rose and intoned “Is the claimant prepared?”

 

“I am,” answered Pal’quaar.

 

“Is the defender prepared?”

 

Seven flicked her left wrist again, extending the blades. She settled into a relaxed ready stance. “I am.”

 

“Let the challenge begin.”

 

Seven began cautiously circling to her left, forcing Pal’quaar to do the same. As she glared at him she realized Tuvok had been correct – there was a definite hesitation when he stepped to the left. She also noted that he was already sweating profusely. Make him swing and miss…he will tire. I am BORG, I will not tire. Fatigue is irrelevant.

 

Like a snake striking, Pal’quaar suddenly swept the Tarva’al up and across her torso. She leapt back, avoiding the blow and caught it on the baton. She flung the blade away from her, pivoted and brought the tip of the baton down sharply on his wrist. He bellowed in pain as she danced away, still circling to her left. Again he struck, slashing at her legs. She slipped to the side, spun and smashed the baton down on his shoulder. Work on his sword arm. Sooner or later the baton will numb it. Then it will be your strength against his. This time, he spun quickly and slashed at her waist. She was off balance from her blow and felt the blade slice into her side as she lunged away. Pal’quaar’s men roared their approval.

 

“First blood to me, Borg!” he crowed.

 

“Last blood will be mine. Or perhaps I will not kill you. Perhaps I will merely assimilate you. Voyager can always use another drone to clean plasma conduits,” she taunted him.

 

He bellowed and charged at her, the Tarva’al whirling like a scythe. She blocked the blows with her forearms and the baton and slashed back with her Borg hand. Blood trickled down her arms. While her skeleton was duranium reinforced, the wicked scimitar and its lethal spike were wreaking havoc on the organic muscles and sinews that knit her skeleton together. Nanoprobes will take care of the damage. Focus. Exploit his weakness. Still she circled. Still he came on.

 

He swung again at her head. She ducked, spun and launched a snap kick into his left kneecap. He staggered and she slashed across his chest, gratified when bright blood spurted from four parallel gashes. He feinted right, jumped left and hammered her in the side with the flat of the blade. She felt something inside of her tear. He charged into her using his superior size to drive her backwards into a pillar, crushing the breath from her lungs. Three times he drove his huge fist into her gut before she managed to push him off. The warriors cheered their leader.  Fear is irrelevant. Focus. Exploit. I am BORG. The threat must be terminated. Pain is irrelevant. She drove her knee into his scrotum and wrenched herself to the side. He smashed his fist into the side of her head, stunning her. Her optical implant failed and she felt the skin around it split open. Blood poured down her face. She staggered out of his reach and pivoted to face him…a split second too late. The Tarva’al flashed downward and the spike drove straight down into the point of her right shoulder, severing the brachial clamps that held the bones together and shattering the joint. She fell to her knees as her right arm went limp and the baton dropped from nerveless fingers. PAIN…IS…IRRELEVANT…. She staggered up as Pal’quaar wrenched the Tarva’al, pulling her toward him. She dimly heard Janeway’s scream as she saw her chance. She tucked and rolled; there was searing pain in her shoulder and chest as the Tarva’al tore loose. She came up on one knee behind him and in one fluid movement slashed her Borg hand across the back of his knee, severing his hamstrings. He fell heavily. She lurched to her feet and connected a hard round kick to his head. A snap kick sent the lethal scimitar spinning across the floor. He tried to rise off his knees and Seven knew she must end this now, before he managed to regain any kind of footing. She spun behind him and drove the stiffened fingers of her left hand, blades and all, into the base of his skull severing his brainstem. His lifeless body collapsed. She staggered back and flicked gore from her hand. She whipped around as she heard a shouted warning and sensed movement behind her.

 

Pal’quaar’s second in command had leapt onto the floor and charged at her wielding a 24 inch knife. She spun away and slashed downward with her hand slicing his arm to the bone. Her useless right arm absorbed his retaliatory slash. She blocked a thrust with her left arm and drove her ruined shoulder into his gut. Pain…is…irrelevant….She held onto his wrist as she whirled under the outstretched arm and wrenched the arm up and behind him with all her strength. She felt the shoulder dislocate. The knife clattered to the floor. He spun into her and crashed another blow into the side of her head. She lost her grip and pivoted out of range of his good hand. She readied herself for another rush and read the intent in his eyes. As he lunged toward her, she spun and dropped to one knee, sweeping her Borg hand before her. Another slash on the follow through laid his belly open. Intestines spilled out. As he sank to his knees futilely grasping at his entrails, she flung her left hand at his neck and slit his throat, nearly beheading him. He died in a lake of his own blood and guts.

 

Rage rose in her as she whirled to face the remaining military men. “Is there another who wishes death??” she screamed. Her voice was inhuman, her eyes wild.

 

No one moved. Then slowly, one by one, they brought their fisted right hands to their hearts saluting her.

 

“You are Victor,” declared the Prelate.

 

Seven of Nine paced toward Janeway as she collapsed the blades of her left hand. “I claim my mate!”

 

Captain Janeway’s eyes were wide as she watched the blood-drenched apparition move toward her. Seven stopped in front of her and stared at her with those wild eyes. Her optical implant was a ruin; blood poured from it, the underlying fascia glistening a sickly white. Suddenly she grabbed the collar of Janeway’s dress tunic and ripped it, exposing Janeway’s neck and shoulder. Voyager’s Captain gasped as Seven of Nine spun her around and roughly pulled her back against Seven’s bloody chest. Seven dropped her mouth to the juncture of elegant neck and shoulder and bit down, sucking hard, her arm almost crushing Janeway’s chest.

 

My god, she’s MARKING ME, thought Janeway wildly, beginning to struggle. The pressure of Seven’s arm across her chest increased to stop her. Janeway could barely breathe.

 

Seven lifted her head after several moments leaving teeth marks and a rapidly darkening weal on the delicate skin. The Ma’altareans nodded in approval. The room was silent.

 

Seven scanned the crowd until she found the captain of the Mylapaq. She fixed him with a laser stare.

 

“Ta’arqual, you will return to your ship and make ready to escort Voyager from this system.”

 

He clapped fist to chest and said, “As you command, Victor.” He spun on his heel and left the room.

 

Seven turned her attention to the Premier, never easing her fierce grip on Janeway.

 

“We sought 50 kilotons of dilithium and 30 kilotons of deuterium. Can you provide this immediately?” she barked harshly.

 

An assistant Councilor answered. “We can, Victor.”

 

“What was the last price spoken of?” Seven demanded.

 

“Three tons of beryllium,” replied the Premier.

 

“We offer two and a half. Do you accept?”

 

The Premier lowered his eyes, unable to face her. “We do, Victor.”

 

Seven swung to face Tuvok. “Give them the coordinates of Cargo Bay one. When Voyager confirms the ores are aboard, beam the beryllium to this room.” Tuvok was already speaking quietly into his comm badge, as was the assistant Councilor into his comm link. It took only three minutes for the transactions to be complete. Not a word was uttered during that time. Every eye in the room moved back and forth between the bodies on the floor and the Borg. Seven’s countenance was terrifying enough to silence even B’Elanna.

 

Janeway was fighting both dizziness and a rising fury. She listened with disbelief as Seven of Nine settled the trade talks in a manner that shattered the Prime Directive. She felt a throbbing pain in her neck, but each time she tried to free herself she was crushed more harshly against the ex-drone. She could feel blood soaking through her dress whites where Seven was pressing against her.

 

“Seven, let me…” she rasped.

 

“SILENCE! You will not speak!” was hissed into her ear by the drone holding her. Janeway could recognize nothing of the sweet and gentle young woman she loved in the apparently blood-crazed Borg who held her prisoner. While a part of her brain knew Seven of Nine would never hurt her, another part was in genuine fear of the bloody wraith holding her.

 

As the pallets of beryllium ingots appeared on the floor, Seven abruptly released her only to grab her roughly by the back of the neck.

 

“We are leaving the Ma’altarean Protectorate within a half hour. Do not dishonor these dead by attempting to follow. Mylapaq will escort us to the boundaries of your protectorate.”

 

With that, Seven of Nine strode to the center of the room as Janeway stumbled along beside her, neck locked in a Borg grip. Tuvok and Torres silently followed. As Seven halted, Tuvok tapped his comm badge.

 

“Voyager, four to beam up.” They vanished in a blaze of sparkling blue ions.

 

 

Captain Janeway was torn between rage and terror as she watched Seven of Nine face the towering Ma’altarean warrior. She was furious at her inability to stop the barbaric ritual and horrified at the thought that Seven would have to fight to the death with an alien two feet taller and over 200 pounds heavier. Surely not even her Borg-enhanced strength could stand up to the threat Pal’quaar posed.

 

“My Lord Premier, stop this!! NOW!!” she demanded as the combatants began to circle one another.

 

“It cannot be stopped Captain,” was the reply, “The ritual is inviolate. They must fight. If your Borg does not, Pal’quaar will claim you immediately and no one can stop him. Only she can keep you from harm now.”

 

“Then let him claim me, damn it. She’ll be killed!”

 

“Captain, you do not realize what you are saying. You cannot survive his claim. YOU will die in her place. Is that what you wish? Would you truly demean her sacrifice in that manner?”

 

“Sacrifice? What the hell are you talking about?”

 

Tuvok said quietly, “Seven does not expect to survive the encounter, Captain. She knows what she is doing. If she can hold him off long enough, we can get you to safety aboard Voyager.”

 

Janeway the captain glared at him in a fury. Kathryn the woman quaked at the thought of losing Seven. I have to do SOMETHING. Anything. I can’t let her be killed like this…not for me. I can’t live knowing she died to protect me…THINK! There has to be a way…

 

She watched in horror as Seven was slammed viciously against a pillar. There’s so much blood….Seven staggered free and took a thunderous blow to the head. Janeway could see she was stunned. Without thinking she started to go to Seven but was grabbed and pulled back by Tuvok.

 

“Do not distract her!” he whispered fiercely.

 

She turned to verbally flay him and spun back to watch Seven when she saw the look in his eyes. She refocused on the Borg just as the huge Tarva’al smashed down into her shoulder and drove the young woman to her knees.

 

“SEVEN!!” she screamed. She struggled against the Vulcan’s grip as she saw Seven pulled toward the monster, her right arm hanging useless at her side. The spiked blade tore free of the ex-drone and suddenly Seven, in a move so graceful it resembled ballet, was behind the huge alien slashing at the tendons behind his knees. He fell heavily and Seven of Nine disarmed him. Janeway’s gorge rose as she saw her Astrometrics officer icily drive her Borg hand into his skull, killing him instantly. From the corner of her eye she saw movement.

 

“Behind you!” she yelled. Seven whirled to face the new threat. This Ma’altarean, although as huge as the first, was not as skilled a fighter. It seemed only moments before Seven first eviscerated him and then nearly took his head off as she cut his throat.

 

Captain Janeway lost the battle with Kathryn the woman as she watched her love face down the remaining Ma’altarean military men. Please darling, don’t…you’ve won…let’s just get out of here…ran through her head like a mantra. No thoughts of trade, First Contact or the Prime Directive; only of getting Seven of Nine to safety. The look of relief on her face changed to disbelief as Seven stalked toward her and the uniform was ripped off her shoulder. Captain Janeway and her command authority slammed back into place when she felt Seven’s mouth on her. What the hell does she think she’s doing?? she raged.

 

Conflicting emotions swirled within her as Seven held her in that crushing embrace and summarily ended their budding relationship with Ma’altara Prime. Relief, fury, fear and frustration fought for primacy as she saw the Council room disappear in the blazing blue of Voyager’s transporter beam. The moment they re-materialized on Voyager, she felt the Borg grip on her neck ease. She flung the arm off her, whirled and slammed Seven in the chest viciously.

 

“Get that goddamn filthy Borg hand off me!!”

 

The stunned look on Seven of Nine’s face did not register through her fury. “Tuvok, I want her confined to the brig until I draw up formal charges!” Janeway raged as she stormed off the transporter dais. “This may not have been mutiny, but it’s the next thing to it. I ought to space her and be done with it!!”

 

“Captain, I don’t believe you know all facts of the situation,” said Tuvok mildly.

 

“What more do I need to know? She destroyed any chance we had to establish diplomatic relations with a new planetary system. That is in direct violation of the Prime Directive and I will not tolerate that Borg arrogance any more! This time she’s gone too far!!”

 

“Captain, perhaps you can review more extensive data on the situation while Seven is in Sickbay. She requires medical attention before I can arrest her,” Tuvok pressed.

 

“Fine! Torres, get the drone to Sickbay. Tuvok, dispatch a security team to meet them there and as soon as Seven of Nine is patched up throw her in the brig. I’m heading to the bridge to try and smooth things over with the Premier.” She headed toward the door only to be stopped by Chakotay bursting into the room.

 

“My god Kathryn, are you all right? Did Seven get there in time? How did she get you out of there?”

 

“She killed two men. Then damn near stole the ores from the Ma’altareans’ and destroyed any chance we had to form an alliance with them. That’s how she got me out!” she yelled.

 

“Kathryn, please calm down. I don’t think you understand…” He was interrupted by B’Elanna’s frantic cry behind them. They spun and saw the Chief of Engineering on her knees next to an unconscious Seven of Nine. B’Elanna screamed, “Emergency transport to Sickbay NOW!!” to the transporter officer. They vanished in the transport beam leaving only a large pool of blood behind.

 

 

Chakotay and Tuvok tried in vain to calm a raging Janeway on the way to the Bridge. But all she could focus on was the paralyzing impotence she had felt during the entire conflict in the Premier’s residence. Starfleet Captains do not, as a rule, deal well with paralyzing impotence; Captain Janeway was no exception. The loss of control she’d felt enraged and terrified her. She was the captain of Voyager; she was the one who commanded ship and crew. She was the one responsible for their victories, successes and failures. That Seven of Nine had usurped her command prerogative in the wake of the battle in the Residence infuriated her. Buried were all thoughts of her love for Seven. She shoved away the terror when she’d seen Seven wounded. She willfully ignored the overwhelming relief when she’d realized that Seven had won. Only white hot rage filled her now.

 

She stormed onto the bridge and snapped, “Report!” to Harry Kim.

 

“Captain, the Mylapaq has left her berth and taken up station keeping 3,000 meters off our port bow. Captain Ta’arqual reports they await our command to break orbit and are prepared to fly escort for us to the Protectorate boundary. Course is laid in and Engineering reports all impulse and warp engines available at your command. Deflector arrays and weapons systems are fully charged and ready. All personnel have been beamed back from the planet surface. The ship is at Yellow alert; all hands at their stations, all stations secure, ma’am.”

 

Janeway dropped gracefully into her command chair. “Hail the Premier.” Chakotay eased into his seat and Tuvok assumed the Tactical position behind them.

 

Premier Tor’vaq appeared on the bridge screen.

 

“Captain Janeway, I was about to contact you. Please accept my deepest apologies for the barbarity you were subjected to this morning. The actions of Pal’quaar shamed us all. The officers who supported him in his insanity have been stripped of their rank and imprisoned. I accept full blame for what you and Seven of Nine were forced to endure. We thank the gods that your Borg knew enough of that savage ritual to stop Pal’quaar. Please tell me, she is not seriously injured?”

 

Janeway was at a complete loss; stunned at the Premier’s words. She had been prepared to apologize for Seven of Nine’s actions and to do whatever was necessary to re-establish some sort of civil discourse with the Premier. And now he was acting like it was the Ma’altareans’ fault.

 

Chakotay intervened smoothly. “She is in Sickbay under the care of our medical officer now.”

 

“Please know that the prayers of the Ma’altarean people are with her. Captain Ta’arqual reports that Mylapaq is ready to escort you from our Protectorate if it is still your wish to depart. Is there any further assistance we can provide you? Or may I be presumptuous enough to beg you to stay? What you witnessed this morning was an aberration, and we have taken steps to insure it never happens again. Unfortunately, we had grown complacent because the ritual has not been invoked in so long. We assumed it never would be and never outlawed it. But the High Council has now officially banned the rite and I can assure you, no other female will EVER be subjected to it. Contrary to what you witnessed, we are not barbarians.”

 

“We never thought you were, my lord,” Janeway managed.

 

“Then please Captain Janeway, allow us to make amends to you and your crew. Your journey has been difficult; allow your crew to enjoy our world and relax for a while before you return to space. I assure you, your safety is the paramount concern for us all. After you have all rested and your ship is fully stocked and repaired you will have all the protection our space fleet can provide on you way. Until then, please allow us to show you the hospitality of our world.”

 

“That is beyond kind, my lord. I…WE…accept.”

 

A large smile creased the Premier’s face. “Excellent! Well, since Seven of Nine so expeditiously concluded the trade talks, all that remain are social festivities. We are organizing a celebration of her victory in our main plaza this evening. You and Seven of Nine will be the guests of honor. I am sure you will wish to have your entire crew present for the ceremony.”

 

“Thank you, my lord. We will be happy to attend.” Janeway was still completely stunned at this turn of events.

 

“Our High Council is honored, Captain. Sundown, in the main plaza. Until then.” With that, the Premier signed off.

 

Janeway turned a dumbfounded look on Chakotay. “Stand down Yellow alert. Return to orbital station-keeping. Announce the celebration to the crew and draw up shore leave rosters. Skeleton crew only.”

 

“Aye, Captain.”

 

Harry interrupted. “Captain, we’re being hailed by the Mylapaq. Captain Ta’arqual requests permission to beam aboard.

 

“Permission granted. Bring him to my ready room. Chakotay, Tuvok, you’re with me. Ensign Kim, you have the conn.”

 

Janeway rose and marched to her ready room followed by the two men. She requested a fresh uniform and changed in the small adjoining bathroom. Looking in the mirror, she caught sight of the angry welt and bite marks on her neck. She made a mental note to have the Doctor take care of it soon. Thankfully, the turtleneck of her uniform covered it for the time being. When she emerged from the bathroom, Chakotay and Tuvok were seated in front of her desk. She requested a cup of coffee from the replicator and took her seat behind it.

 

“Would somebody PLEASE tell me what the fuck is going on?” she asked with feigned politeness.

 

Chakotay leaned over and handed her a large padd. “I think everything you need to know is right here Captain. Seven of Nine was most thorough in her research.”

 

Janeway eyed him skeptically but took the padd and began to read. She was interrupted moments later by the chime of her ready room door.

 

“Come!” The door whirred open and Ta’arqual entered.

 

“Have a seat, Captain,” Janeway indicated the remaining chair. “Welcome back to Voyager.”

 

“Captain Janeway, I beg you pardon. This was all my fault,” the Ma’altarean began.

 

“How so, Captain?” Janeway was again at a total loss.

 

“I was aware of that damned ritual. I knew the effect your hair color would have in our society. But I never dreamed that anyone would be insane enough to invoke that ancient savagery. I am to blame for the disrespect and humiliation you suffered and for Seven’s injuries. I hesitated to step forward and claim your defense because of the implications of it but just as I had decided there was no other way she broke in and did so. I was so thankful that your spouse would be a member of your crew.”

 

“Ta’arqual, no one here holds you to blame in any way. We all…..my SPOUSE??” Janeway’s eyes almost popped out of her head.

 

Ta’arqual looked almost pained. “I take it all the ramifications of the Rite of Mal’Torpaq have not yet been explained to you.”

 

“I was just reading about it when you arrived. I guess I need to fini…”

 

“Sickbay to Janeway.”

 

“Janeway here Doctor, go ahead.”

“Captain, Seven of Nine…,” the usually arrogant tone of the EMH’s voice changed to almost a whisper. “Captain, you need to get down here…immediately.”

 

His tone said it all. Janeway leaped to her feet and bolted for the turbolift.

 

 

The turbolift took an eternity to travel four decks. When the doors opened on Deck five Janeway sprinted to Sickbay closely followed by Chakotay, Tuvok and Ta’arqual. As she burst through the door she saw full life-support systems encasing a biobed. Torres sat by the still form murmuring quietly and stroking still-bloody blond hair.

 

Janeway just stared. The EMH left the biobed and moved to her, concern etched deeply on his face.

 

“What’s her condition?” she whispered, fear exploding in her gut.

 

“Captain …it’s critical. She sustained massive internal injuries: lacerated abdominal aorta, ruptured spleen, lacerated liver, ruptured renal artery. She’s still bleeding internally and we’re pumping blood back into her as fast as we can. Her right shoulder has been completely destroyed; even if I can replicate the brachial clamps, the microsurgery required to install them and reattach the musculature and ligaments is unbelievably complex. In her current condition she won’t survive it.”

 

“But…her nanoprobes…why aren’t they taking care of it?”

 

“Captain, her cortical node has…well not shut down exactly, more like gone into stasis. It’s not actively controlling her Borg implants any longer. Without her cortical node, her nanoprobes have gone inactive.”

 

“So heal her like you would any other crew member. Use your regenerators.”

 

“Captain, I can’t stay ahead of the bleeding and my regenerators will destroy her Borg implants. Without her nanoprobes, I can’t close things fast enough. Her cortical node won’t force her Borg systems to repair her organic ones. It’s almost like it’s waiting to see if her organic systems fail before it shuts down completely. Unless I can get her vital signs to stabilize, there’s no hope of getting her cortical node back up and operational. And I need her nanoprobes to get her vital signs stabilized. It’s a vicious cycle…without nanoprobes her organic systems will die, but without a cortical node, I can’t keep any nanoprobes active long enough to make much headway repairing her organic systems. And her cortical node won’t reactivate until her organic systems improve.”

 

Janeway shrank back from what she knew was coming next.

 

“Captain,” the EMH said gently, “I don’t think Seven is going to make it…”

 

“NO! I WILL NOT ACCEPT THAT!!” Janeway glared at him. “You WILL NOT give up on her!! That is a direct order!!”

 

“Captain, I assure you, I have no intention of giving up on her!” the EMH replied in dismay, “But you need to know the situation. There are limits to what I can do. You need to be prepared…in case…”

 

“Wait a minute!!” B’Elanna jumped to her feet. “You need nanoprobes? I’ll get you nanoprobes!! I’ve got her nanoprobe templates stored from when we modified them to kill Species 8472. I can replicate them!”

 

“Lt. Torres, you can’t replicate enough of them to do any good. They go inactive within a minute in her body,” said the EMH.

 

“So what? I’ll just keep replicating them. You can inject them directly where they need to go. We can flood her system with them until they repair enough damage for her to stabilize!”

 

“Our replicators won’t handle…”

 

“Oh yes they will! Yes they will!! Seven and I worked out how to increase our replicator output. I can install a higher capacity bio-neural conduit and power them right off our warp core. You keep her alive for one hour and I’ll get you enough nanoprobes to fill a cargo hold!!”

 

Hope blazed in Janeway’s eyes. “Are you absolutely sure, B’Elanna?”

 

“On my honor, Captain. I can DO this.” Torres eyes blazed back at her. Janeway looked at the Medical officer.

 

“It just might work,” he said.

 

Captain Kathryn Janeway had not kept her ship and crew together through five long years in a hostile quadrant through luck alone. She was a skilled and decisive commander. Every inch of her radiated that now.

 

“Ta’arqual, please return to your ship and notify the Premier of the situation. Extend my apologies to him and to your people. I will be occupied here until further notice. Chakotay, you have the ship. Tuvok, shut down all but the engineering and mess hall replicators.”

 

Ta’arqual was a commander too. He straightened to attention.

 

“Captain Janeway, Mylapaq will feed your crew. If there is anything else we can do to help you need only ask.”

 

“I…thank you, Ta’arqual. Chakotay, set up a transport schedule to the Mylapaq. Tuvok, you can take the mess hall replicators offline too. Torres, let’s go replace that conduit.” She nodded to the men and she and the Chief engineer raced for the turbolift.

 

 

B’Elanna and Janeway replaced the power conduit in 43 minutes. The Engineering crew had downloaded the nanoprobe parameters into the large engineering replicators. When the new conduit came online, Torres re-routed warp core power through it to the replicators. All readings were in the green.

 

“We’re up!” She shouted to her crew. “Get those replicators going!”

 

The replicators fired up and began producing thousands of the microscopic nanoprobes every minute. Janeway and Torres beamed the suspensions holding them to Sickbay. Tom Paris, the EMH’s field medic, was loading hyposprays and surgical syringes with the suspensions as fast as he could move. The Doctor began injecting Seven’s internal injury sites. Her vital signs held weakly as she clung to life.

 

The main concern of the EMH was that they would flood Seven of Nine with so many nanoprobes the inactive ones would clog her bloodstream. To counteract this, Paris and Neelix had jury-rigged a dialysis pump to filter out the inactive nanoprobes from her blood before pumping it back into her body. Neelix monitored the dialysis machine and disposed of the spent nanoprobes.

 

Hour by hour they watched as Seven’s microscopic guardians repaired her injuries. Millimeter by fractional millimeter lacerations of vital organs were closed. Her blood was continually cleansed of the spent nanoprobes and sent back into the battle being waged for her life.

 

Ten hours after they started, Janeway eased through the Sickbay doors. The Doctor, Tom and Neelix all worked quietly around the biobed inside a force field set to maintain a sterile environment. The Doctor noticed her and came over to her.

 

“Any change Doctor?” asked Janeway, tense and quiet.

 

“We’re making progress, Captain. It’s just very, very slow progress. But her vital signs haven’t slipped at all. She’s still critical, but she’s holding her own. We can’t ask for much more than that. I can say that we’ve got most of the bleeding under control. And that’s the most important thing right now. They’ve beamed some food over from the Mylapaq. Tom and Neelix are going to take a few minutes to eat. Would you like to sit with her for a bit while they do?”

 

There was nothing in the universe that Janeway wanted more at that moment, but she was so ashamed of how she’d treated Seven on their return to Voyager that she hesitated. Finally, she nodded.

 

“Gentlemen, why don’t we give the captain and Seven a little privacy?” the Doctor said to his assistants as he lowered the sterile force field. Tom and Neelix left the biobed and moved into the Doctor’s office to eat. The Doctor joined Janeway at Seven’s bedside.

 

“Why haven’t you repaired the wound to her shoulder?” asked the captain.

 

“Until her nanoprobes are fully functional again I can’t even begin to reconstruct her shoulder. I’m keeping the wound open to drain what looks like the beginnings of an infection in it.”

 

“Can’t you give her some antibiotics?”

 

“I’ve given her everything we have. Whatever it is that’s growing in there is something our drugs can’t fight. She’ll need her nanoprobes for this one. Here, sit down while we take a break.” The EMH pulled a stool next to the biobed and quietly left for his office.

 

Janeway wasn’t aware of sitting. She couldn’t take her eyes off the pale woman lying there. Gently, she wrapped her fingers around Seven’s Borg hand and stroked the mesh. She leaned close and whispered.

 

“Seven, I don’t know if you can hear me, but I need to tell you how terribly sorry I am. I was scared and angry down on the planet because I didn’t know what was happening. I still don’t know for sure, but everything I’ve been told shows that what you did was exactly right. But because I didn’t know that, I blamed you for my fear. You know me; I always have to be in control. Down there I wasn’t. So I got angry…it covers fear up really well. Oh Seven, I was so frightened for you! I couldn’t believe you willingly fought that monster…when he hurt you it was like I could feel it myself. You were so brave down there, so noble. Please Seven, don’t give up now. I need you. Voyager needs you. B’Elanna and Tom and Neelix and the Doctor and the whole crew are doing everything they can to help you right now. I’m even pitching in. So please Seven, don’t leave us. When you feel better, I want to have another quiet dinner in my quarters. Just the two of us. I never told you, but that night you took care of me when I hurt my ankle was one of the most wonderful evenings I’ve ever had. It was so comfortable being there with you. I want to do it again. I want to be able to sit and talk, just the two of us. There are so many things I want to tell you. Things I’ve been too afraid to say. So please, love, stay with me…please don’t leave me alone again.”

 

One single tear fell on the mesh and metal hand she held.

 

 

It took nearly 36 hours to completely close all the internal injuries, but finally Seven of Nine stabilized. The infection in her shoulder was spreading slowly and this concerned the Doctor. He took samples and sent them down to healers on the planet to see if they could stop it. She remained unconscious, however, and her cortical node did not re-initialize. She developed a fever and her vital signs began to waver. Eighteen hours after the samples were sent to the planet surface, a diagnosis came back to the Doctor along with a vial of a local plant distillate to treat the infection. The Doctor injected her with it every two hours and after ten hours the fever began to abate. Slowly her vital signs got stronger. Finally, three and a half days after she collapsed, Seven of Nine was stable.

 

Janeway never left her side from the moment the sterile force field came down.

 

B’Elanna began analyzing a salvaged brachial clamp and programming its parameters into the replicators for when Seven was strong enough to have her shoulder repaired. The doctor rebuilt her optical implant but refused to contemplate further surgery until her cortical node was fully active again. After yet another day, he called a conference. Janeway, B’Elanna Tuvok and the Doctor discussed possible solutions. It was finally agreed that the only way to jump start her cortical node would be a week-long regeneration cycle. The Doctor felt that if he re-positioned her new optical implant, her nanoprobes would complete the installation during regeneration. He was not as hopeful for her shoulder and he and Torres began to prepare to rebuild it themselves. They moved Seven to an anti-grav stretcher and took her to Cargo Bay two. It took B’Elanna almost half an hour to break the Borg encryption codes on the door to her quarters; she maintained that it was just one more thing she had to get even with Seven for. The smile on her face told the truth however. Tuvok and the Doctor carried Seven to her alcove and held her upright while Janeway programmed the regeneration cycle. Seven’s body stiffened as the alcove activated and the men stepped away.

 

Janeway had decided to remain with her during the regeneration cycle. The doctor gave her the specialized tricorder he used for Seven’s diagnostics and showed her what to scan for. Once everyone left, she took a sonic shower and got a mug of coffee. She sat down on the bed and watched the beautiful young woman in the Borg alcove for an hour, thinking of possibilities she had long refused to contemplate. Suddenly, the door chimed. Janeway walked into the living area and opened it. B’Elanna and a maintenance team stood outside.

 

“You can’t stay here without a waste disposal unit and a full shower. So we’re going to install them now,” Torres said matter-of-factly.

 

“And just how did you get the authorizations to do that Lt. Torres?” asked Janeway in exasperation.

 

“I told Chakotay that if he didn’t authorize the installation I’d blow him out an airlock,” replied B’Elanna without a trace of remorse. “It worked.”

 

Two hours later, Seven’s quarters boasted a fully human-friendly bathroom.

 

Janeway took tricorder readings every hour. She had been catching brief naps when she could since the ordeal began and her fatigue was evident. But she refused to give in to it until she was sure that Seven would recover. Finally, after eighteen hours of regeneration, she noticed fluctuations in her readings. She summoned the EMH.

 

He scanned Seven of Nine and a smile broke across his face.

 

“That’s what we’ve been looking for! Her cortical node is active and there is nanoprobe production again. Once the regeneration cycle completes she’ll be fine. Of course, we’ll still need to rebuild her shoulder, but she should come through the surgery well now. Captain, get some sleep. You look like you’ve run over by a herd of targs.”

 

Janeway smiled her first true smile in almost a week. “I will, Doctor. Just as soon as you leave.”

 

He promptly did. She crawled under the covers of Seven’s bed and slept for 22 hours, unaware of him checking on her several times. The next day, she asked Chakotay to bring the padd she’d left in her ready room when she dashed to Sickbay. He sat next to her as she read the complete data Seven of Nine had downloaded on the Rite of Mal’Torpaq. The more she read, the paler she became. Suddenly, she leapt up, ran to the bathroom and vomited into the bowl. Chakotay was right behind her. Bleakly, she looked up at him.

 

“I never realized…I didn’t understand…what was at stake…what could happen…”

 

“I know, Kathryn. None of us did. I still don’t understand how Seven knew about this or figured out what kind of danger you were in, but I’m thankful she did. The important thing is that you’re both OK. C’mon back into the sitting area; I’ve got a cup of coffee there with your name on it. We can figure this out.”

 

“In a minute. Let me clean myself up a bit.”

 

Janeway splashed water on her face and rinsed her mouth before she emerged from the bathroom and sank onto the sofa. She gratefully accepted the mug of fresh coffee from Chakotay and her thoughts spun. It was almost too much to comprehend. Shaking her head, she picked up the padd and finished reading the report. When she had, she looked at Chakotay with a wry look.

 

“So what do we do now?”

 

“I suppose everything hinges on how strictly we apply the Prime Directive. We have officially established relations with Ma’altara Prime. The Prime Directive and Federation law dictates legal reciprocity with allies. That means that we acknowledge and adhere to their laws. But the entire incident occurred under duress; I think that gives you an out if you want to take it. As far as I’ve been able to understand from Ta’arqual, nothing is official until you and Seven go through the ceremony. Until then, you’re only ‘betrothed’.”

 

Janeway massaged her temples with her fingertips. “I’m engaged to Seven of Nine. How the hell do we get into these messes?”

 

“Cultural differences and diplomacy can be tricky, Kathryn,” her first officer laughed.

 

She grinned at him. “Easy for you to say. You’re not the one who’s going to have to explain a Borg daughter-in-law to my mother.”

 

The shared laughter eased the tension for both of them. “Well, it’s obvious that Seven is in no shape to go through any ceremonies right now. If we can stall the Ma’altareans until we break orbit, we can ignore the whole incident once we get back in space. That should work.”

 

“Chakotay, don’t you think we should get Seven’s input in this before we decide anything?”

 

“Well surely she’s not going to pursue this. I mean, there’s nothing between you two. It would be a farce. And there’s no reason for it.”

 

“Maybe, Chakotay. But she’s still half the equation here, and she’s got a right to have a say in what we decide to do. Let’s hold off on a decision until she’s up and around again and then we’ll all sit down and work this out. In the meanwhile, we need to stay friendly with the Ma’altareans. What’s the latest word from the Premier?”

 

“He informs me that prayer vigils were held for Seven while she was critical. When word reached them that she would recover, they threw a major party in the capital. Apparently, it is extremely rare for a woman to claim the right of defense and even rarer for her to actually win the conflict. Believe it or not, our little Borg is almost a national hero on Ma’altara Prime. When she gets back on her feet, she’s going to be the toast of the town…you both are, for that matter.”

 

“My fiancée and I,” Janeway shook her head in disbelief.

 

B’Elanna arrived a few minutes later and relieved Janeway. The Captain and First Officer went to the mess hall for dinner; Neelix was being provided extravagant buffets from the planet below to feed their guests of Voyager. Nobody could recall eating as well during their stay in the Delta quadrant. Between the superb food and continuing shore leave, the crew was relaxed and happy. As Janeway and Chakotay sat down several crew members came up to them.

 

“Captain, how’s Seven doing?” asked Jenny Delaney. “Is she awake yet?”

 

“Not yet, Ensign. It will be a few more days before her regeneration cycle completes. But it looks like everything is going very well. She should be fine when she wakes up.”

 

“Will you tell her that we’re all thinking of her? Tell her to get well soon?”

 

Janeway smiled. “I certainly will.”

 

“Oh, and Captain, you ARE going to invite the crew to the wedding aren’t you? None of us want to miss that!”

 

“We…ah…haven’t finalized all the plans yet. But we’ll be sure to include the crew in whatever we decide.”

 

“Thanks, Captain. We’re all looking forward to it. Well, we’re headed for the surface. Have a nice dinner!”

 

With that, the group left for adventures on Ma’altara Prime.

 

Janeway glared at Chakotay. “The CREW wants to attend my wedding??”

 

“Of course, Kathryn. Would you expect less? I mean how many times does their Captain marry their Astrometrics officer? Naturally they want to be a part of that.”

 

“I thought we’d agreed to keep that part of what went on quiet…how come everybody knows?”

 

“They’re getting it from the locals not from senior staff. Apparently, the Ma’altareans want a wedding. That’s all you hear about down on the surface.”

 

“Great, just great! The entire planet, the entire crew…everybody knows I’m engaged except my fiancée!” she grumbled.

 

“Don’t be too sure about that Kathryn. Remember, it was Seven who put together the report on the ritual. I’m sure she knew what the results could be before she beamed to the planet surface.”

 

Now THAT was something to think about…

 

 

Three days later, the Doctor, Janeway and B’Elanna anxiously waited in Seven’s bedroom for the cycle to finish.

 

“Regeneration cycle complete,” chirped the computer.

 

Seven of Nine opened her eyes and blinked twice. A small frown appeared on her brow as her nanoprobes made minute adjustments to her new optical node. As her vision cleared the frown vanished. She looked at the faces in front of her.

 

“Welcome back, Seven. How are you feeling?” asked the EMH.

 

“I am functioning within normal parameters with the exception of my right shoulder and arm. What is wrong?”

 

“We couldn’t repair the damage to your shoulder until you’d regenerated fully. Now that you’re on your feet again, we’ll schedule it for early next week if you like. In the meantime, I’ll need to stabilize your arm with this sling and stabilizer.”

 

B’Elanna was grinning from ear to ear. “Kahless, but it’s good to see you awake again! You had us worried there for a while you damn Borg. Oh yeah, and I’m gonna get you for those encryption codes you had on your door too!”

 

A faint smile appeared on Seven’s face. “You were able to penetrate them?”

 

“Took me half an hour, but I finally broke in.”

 

“Then obviously, I did not secure my quarters properly. If I had, you would still be outside. I will correct that immediately.”

 

Torres threw her head back in laughter and reached out to help Seven off the alcove dais. Janeway had hung back as the Borg awoke, smiling at the banter between the two officers. Now she smiled squarely at Seven as the Doctor and B’Elanna put the sling and stabilizing straps around her chest and over her good shoulder.

 

“Hello, Seven, I’m glad you’re back with us.”

 

Seven of Nine regarded her coldly. “Thank you, Captain. I trust you suffered no ill effects from what transpired in the Premier’s residence?”

 

Janeway’s smile wavered at the icy tone of Seven’s voice. She thought briefly of her still tender neck and the bruise that remained there.

 

“I’m fine, Seven. I…thank you…for what you did.”

 

“You are welcome, Captain.” The cold blue eyes dismissed Janeway and focused on the EMH. He frowned slightly at the apparent tension between the two women.

 

“Seven, let’s get you cleaned up and dressed, why don’t we? I’m sure you can’t wait to get out of our wonderful Sickbay pajamas. Lt. Torres, would you mind assisting Seven to dress after she’s had a shower?”

 

“No problem, Doc. I’ll get her cleaned up and fed and we’ll meet you in the conference room in a couple of hours. How’s that sound?”

 

“Excellent. We all need to discuss the situation as soon as possible. Captain? Why don’t you go get something to eat too and we can all convene at say, 1800 hours?”

 

He gently pushed an unresisting Janeway out of the bedroom and into the sitting area.

 

Janeway’s eyes were dull gray. “She hates me,” she murmured.

 

“Now, Captain, everyone has been through a difficult ordeal. I’m sure you’re mistaken. Let’s wait until we’re all fed and rested and calmly discuss what happened and what we’re all going to do about it. Come along now. Everything will work itself out.”

 

“No, it won’t. I’ve seen to that, believe me,” she said bitterly. She raised her eyes and said clearly, “Doctor, I need your assistance. Let’s go to Sickbay.” With that, she turned around and walked quickly out of Seven’s quarters. The EMH followed. When they arrived in the medical section, Janeway removed her uniform tunic and pulled off the turtleneck underneath it. The EMH scowled as he saw the fading bite marks and still ugly bruise.

 

“Where did you get this…and how long ago did it happen?” he demanded as he reached for a tricorder.

 

“Since the incident at the residence,” she said dully. “Seven marked me after she killed the two Ma’altareans. At the time, I didn’t realize it was a necessary part of the ritual. I’m afraid I reacted…badly… to it. And to her…”

 

“Well, thankfully it doesn’t look like she broke the skin. I can take care of this fairly quickly, although I must say, it’s a surprisingly deep bruise. I wouldn’t have expected it to look this fresh so long after it happened.”

 

“Seven was rather…had a lot of adrenaline after the fight. She probably wasn’t aware of how hard she…” Janeway looked down at the floor as she remembered.

 

“Well, turn you head that way and I can heal it,” the Doctor said, taking a dermal regenerator off his tray.

 

The shame of her anger at Seven returned. “No. Wait. I changed my mind. I don’t want you to do anything. Leave it as it is.” How could I have lost control like that? She was ready to give up her life to protect me. All I could think of was how it looked like I wasn’t in charge.

 

“But Captain, that has to be tender. I can fix it in just a moment.”

 

“No! I don’t deserve…just leave it alone. I’ll see you in the conference room at 1800.” Janeway grabbed her turtleneck and pulled it back over her head. She pulled on her tunic and walked out of Sickbay for her quarters.

 

The EMH gently shook his head. This was going to take far more than medicine to heal.

 

 

B’Elanna unfastened the brace and helped Seven remove the green Sickbay pajamas.

 

“Let’s get you into the shower. A sonic shower will clean your implants best, but you’ll probably want a hydro too to wash your hair. We had trouble getting the blood out of it.”

“I don’t have a hydro shower, B’Elanna.”

 

The Klingon grinned. “You do now. And a fully functional toilet too.”

 

Seven of Nine frowned. “Since when?”

 

“Since Janeway refused to leave you while you regenerated. She never left your side once the Doctor finished the surgery, and she moved in here to stay with you while you were regenerating. I installed it for her. And before you ask, no, she didn’t ask for it. It was my idea. I had to threaten to space Chakotay before he approved the requisition.”

 

Seven smiled. “It’s nice to see that your personality has not changed during my incapacitation.”

 

“I wouldn’t want to disappoint you. Come here, I need to cover the wound in your shoulder with this plastiseal dressing so it won’t get wet.”

 

Torres helped her into the shower and stepped out of the bathroom. Seven activated the sonic settings at the highest intensity. She could almost feel the vibrations cleaning her skin. When the sonic shower clicked off she activated the hydro shower, setting the temperature controls for fairly hot. The steaming water felt good flowing off her head and over her body. It was a bit awkward for her to wash her hair one-handed, but she managed. It wasn’t terribly efficient, but it was effective. She dried her hair, thankful that it was now short. B’Elanna had wrapped her in a large towel when she stepped out of the shower and helped her dry off. She ran a brush through her hair and sat on the bed to pull her clothes on. Seven frowned at how difficult things were with only one working arm. It was going to be extremely inefficient to dress until the Doctor repaired her shoulder.

 

“Don’t get all worked up. I’ll come here every morning and help you dress. Nobody has to know but us, I promise. We wouldn’t want anyone thinking the Borg were inefficient,” said B’Elanna when she saw Seven’s expression. She was gently covering the wound on Seven’s shoulder with a thick sterile dressing.

 

“Thank you, B’Elanna. You are a good friend.” Between the two of them, they got Seven clothed and the support brace back in place.

 

“C’mon, let’s eat. I’ve got your favorites: toasted cheese and tomato soup.”

 

Seven of Nine grinned. She could think of nothing in the universe better to eat. They sat down at the small dining table and removed the stasis lids. B’Elanna quickly outlined everything that had happened since Seven had collapsed. Even though she had been too busy to go back to the planet surface since the incident at the trade talks, B’Elanna had used her highly evolved interrogation skills on the crew to keep abreast of developments. There was a reason she was the Gossip Queen of Voyager.

 

“So you installed a higher capacity power conduit and ran the replicators off the warp core? There were no dangerous power fluctuations? The conduit held?”

 

“Yep, your idea worked like a charm. I think I’m going to leave it in place. That way, if we ever get in a tight spot, I can divert more power to the engineering replicators for repairs. In fact, I was thinking that if we spliced a diverter in at the right spot, we could use the warp engines to help increase power to all the replicators in an emergency. Do you think that will work?”

 

The two women discussed the engineering plans as they ate. Out of the blue, Torres switched subjects.

 

“So, you’re pissed at the captain,” asked B’Elanna between bites.

 

“Would you not be? You heard what she said to me when we returned to Voyager. The look on her face was terrible…B’Elanna, she hated me. I could see the disgust on her face when she flung off my ‘filthy Borg hand’.”

 

“Seven, shit, I know how you feel. And I know the captain took everything out on you. You’ve got a right to be pissed at her I suppose. But you need to remember that humans, well, we get angry for the dumbest reasons. And when we do, we don’t tend to think before we holler. And we take things out on the wrong people when we do.”

 

“Explain.”

 

“You know the captain has to always be THE CAPTAIN. She takes the burden of responsibility for Voyager and the crew. And you know she’s kind of a control freak. Well, you certainly took control down in the Residence. I don’t think she could handle the frustration of not being able to do anything to stop the fight or to protect you. I know she was terrified for you during the fight. When that monster hit you in the head Tuvok had to hold her back from running to you. And the look on her face when he drove that spike into your shoulder. Seven, she screamed. Captain Janeway…our Captain Janeway…who is always cool in a crisis; she screamed when you were hurt. And when you finished off that second one, the look of relief on her face would have lit up the Void. But when you…well…marked her; she was embarrassed. I’m sure she didn’t understand why you did that. Hell, I don’t understand why you did that. But that’s when she started to get pissed. Plus the fact that you just took over the trade talks; that was her responsibility and you just took it away from her. I’m sure that’s why she reacted the way she did when we got back to the ship.”

 

“But B’Elanna, it was necessary that I do those things!”

 

“Why, Seven?”

 

“It is a part of the Ritual. I told you that if Pal’quaar won he would rape her in front of witnesses to solidify his claim. If I did not ‘mark’ her as mine I would not have sealed my rights as her defender and the fight would have been for nothing. I forced the trade talks because we needed those ores and I could use my status as the ‘Victor’ to get them immediately. I did not know how the Ma’altareans would react to me killing their Warrior Prime, so I thought it best to secure what was needed and leave quickly. And now Captain Janeway hates me for what I did.”

 

“No she doesn’t, Seven. Didn’t you hear anything I told you? She refused to leave you once the surgery was over. She slept in a chair by your bed until we got you into your regeneration alcove. And she stayed here for the entire six days you regenerated. Believe me, those are NOT the actions of someone who hates you.”

 

“Are you sure, B’Elanna?”

 

“As sure as I can be. As for the Ma’altareans, I wouldn’t worry too much about them. As far as I can tell, right now you’re a hero. There were vigils for you when you were critical. They threw a celebration when they heard you’d live. And I understand that as soon as you can get down to the surface again, there’s a huge festival and some kind of ceremony planned for you.”

 

“Yes. We will need to discuss that tonight. I do not believe the captain will want us to take part in that particular ceremony.”

 

“Why not? Everybody on Voyager has gone to the other festivities.”

 

Seven of Nine looked strangely at B’Elanna as she answered, “Because it will be our wedding ceremony.”

 

“Yeah, that could be a problem,” sighed B’Elanna, “That’s going to be the main topic of conversation in the meeting. How do you feel about all this?”

 

“Forcing the captain to marry me was NOT the reason I beamed down to the Premier’s residence, although I knew betrothal was the outcome. My only concern was for her safety. My intent was to save the captain, return to Voyager with her and leave Ma’altara Prime as quickly as possible. Nothing more.”

 

“Seven, I think the captain is waiting for your input before she decides what to do. She’s told Chakotay that we needed to wait until you were back on your feet before deciding on a course of action. I know she doesn’t want to upset the Ma’altareans; I think she feels you might have more insight on how to appease them than the rest of us do. But I gotta tell you, some of the rumors that have been flying around would curl your toes!”

 

“Rumors? Does the captain know about them?”

 

“I’d bet not. If she did, she would have exploded like a breached warp core. Some of them are…well, a little much. And the captain is a very private person. She wouldn’t take it too well if her personal life was an open book for the crew.”

 

“What kind of rumors?”

 

“Let’s see, what was one of the better ones? Oh yeah, you and the captain have been having an affair since we removed all those Borg implants and exoplating. In fact, that’s supposedly why she severed your link to the Collective in the first place and why she keeps you on Voyager. Pal’quaar flirted with her at the state banquet and you got jealous. That’s why you went down to the planet and killed him.”

 

“How can the crew think that of the captain?” asked Seven in dismay.

 

“That’s why it’s called RUMOR. Deep down inside, everybody knows it isn’t true, but speculating on the captain’s personal life is common on any ship. This last incident, well, some of them have gotten swept up in the romance of it all.”

 

“Romance? Explain.”

 

“Seven, jeez, do you ever read anything but star charts and astrophysics texts? It is VERY sexy that you swooped in to fight to the death for the woman you love. To be willing to die to protect her. That’s a real common theme in those trashy romance novels everybody knows the captain reads in the privacy of her quarters.”

 

“B’Elanna, no one but you knows that I love the captain. You have not told anyone, have you?”

 

“No, I kept my word. I haven’t even had the chance to tell Tom and Harry yet. Tuvok heard you tell me right before the fight, but he won’t say anything. It’s still basically between you and me. But you can’t blame the crew for getting a little carried away with all of this. I mean, you ARE engaged to the captain because of what you did. They’re just embellishing the truth a little. It’s basically harmless.”

 

“It is not harmless if it demeans the captain. It is not harmless if it causes her hurt or humiliation.”

 

“OK, so don’t let it cause her hurt or humiliation. Use that brilliant Borg mind of yours to figure out what we can do so that the captain comes out of this looking like the commanding officer she is, not some pathetic damsel in a gothic romance. There’s just one question you have to ask yourself before we go into the meeting: do you still love the captain?”

 

“More than ever.”

 

“Then we need to come up with some plan to keep the Ma’altareans happy and keep the captain from being embarrassed. Looks like you’re going to be protecting her for a while yet.”

 

 

Senior Staff assembled in the Bridge conference room at 1800 hours. When Seven of Nine and B’Elanna entered the room, Tom Paris hollered “Our hero!” and started clapping. Their amused cheering and applause caused Seven to blush as the Doctor fussed with the sling and brace on her arm. Finally satisfied that she would do no further injury to her shoulder, she was allowed to take her seat.

 

“All right everybody, let’s settle down,” said Chakotay to open the meeting. Janeway had watched Seven’s welcome with a neutral expression, although she had joined in the applause.

 

“We need to decide how we’re going to respond to the Ma’altarean plans for the remainder of our stay here. They will be an important ally in this sector and we want to keep them happy. Is everyone clear on what the ramifications of Seven’s fight at the Premier’s residence are?”

 

Harry Kim shifted uncomfortably in his seat. “I’d like it explained officially. There are too many rumors floating around.”

 

Chakotay nodded to Seven. “Will you explain everything? You’re the one who did the research and probably understands it best.”

 

Seven addressed the group. “When Pal’quaar ‘claimed’ the captain, he was in effect issuing a marriage proposal. When I defeated him and sealed my place as her defender I assumed that marriage contract. By Ma’altarean custom, Captain Janeway and I are betrothed. In Ma’altarean society, the formal joining would take place almost immediately after the betrothal. The celebration and ceremony the Ma’altareans have planned is the captain’s and my wedding.”

 

“So if we take part in this ceremony, we’re marrying Seven and the captain?” asked Neelix.

 

Seven nodded. “By Ma’altarean law, yes.”

 

“We have to try to find a compromise between Ma’altarean custom and ours. Federation law provides reciprocity. Since we’ve established formal relations with Ma’altara Prime, any wedding that takes place here will be recognized by the Federation. Unless the captain and Seven want to get married, we need to find a way out of this,” said Chakotay.

 

“Do you, Captain?” asked Neelix.

 

“Do I what, Neelix?”

 

“Do you want to marry Seven?”

 

Leave it to Neelix to inadvertently cut right to the chase, thought Janeway. How the hell do I answer him? Do I want her? Yes, more than anything. But not like this. Not under these circumstances. Not forced to be with me.

 

“Can I interrupt here?” asked B’Elanna. “Seven and I were discussing this over dinner and I think we may have come up with a way to satisfy everybody.”

 

“By all means,” said Janeway.

 

“OK, as I see it, the Ma’altareans expect you two to marry immediately. But they don’t seem like they’d ignore our customs either. Captain Janeway, you come from a Traditionalist background where an engagement can last for quite a while before the actual marriage. We explain that to the Ma’altareans and suggest that instead of the formal wedding ceremony we have a celebration of the engagement. If the captain and Seven will agree to act like an engaged couple while we’re here in the system, Ma’altarean custom won’t be ignored and they can quietly break up once we get back into space. Everybody winds up happy. What do you think?”

 

The ensuing discussion was lively. Janeway looked over at Seven and found deep blue eyes full of warmth focused on her. The icy coldness she had seen in them earlier was gone. She raised one eyebrow in silent question and got an amused quirk of the mouth and a nearly  imperceptible nod in reply.

 

“Hang on, hang on here. We’re forgetting something,” Chakotay finally said. “Captain, are you and Seven willing to go along with this?”

 

“I believe it is the most efficient way to handle the situation,” said Seven.

 

“I agree,” said Janeway with a small smile. “Obviously, Seven and I have some things to discuss. Let’s meet back here at 2100 hours and we can contact the Premier then and see what he says. Agreed?”

 

The rest of the staff nodded and rose from the table. The Doctor interrupted.

 

“Captain, I want to take a look at Seven’s shoulder before she does anything else. I need her in Sickbay for a little while.”

 

“Certainly, Doctor. Seven? When you’re done would you mind joining me in my quarters?”

 

“I will comply, Captain.”

 

As they filed out of room, Seven told the EMH quietly “I will report to Sickbay in a few minutes Doctor. I must make a short stop in Engineering first.”

 

The EMH nodded and left for the medical section. B’Elanna turned to Seven.

 

“Why do we have to go to Engineering first?”

 

“I require your replicators one more time.”

 

 

“Well, it’s still a mess,” said the EMH as he irrigated the wound on Seven’s shoulder with an antibacterial wash. “The surgery to repair it is going to take a while and I’d rather you were stronger before we do it. How are we coming on the new brachial clamps, Lt. Torres?”

 

“I’ve got new ones replicated and ready to go. They’re in the sterile stasis pack over there. We can rebuild the joint whenever Seven’s ready.”

 

“Seven, how’s the pain? Will you be all right if we don’t repair the shoulder joint immediately?”

 

“As long as the arm is immobilized the pain is…acceptable. It is painful when I remove the brace however.”

 

“Seven, the pain in this kind of injury would bring most people to their knees. Are you sure you’re OK? I can give you a hypospray for it.”

 

“I will adapt, Doctor. The pain is manageable. I do not require analgesics at this time.”

 

The EMH neatly redressed the wound and he and B’Elanna helped Seven put her shirt back on. Once the sling and brace were in place the tightening around her mouth eased.

 

“I’ll need to see you twice a day until we operate to keep that wound cleaned out, Seven. The dressing should provide enough padding for normal activity, but be careful. I don’t want another infection in there. I want you to regenerate for at least two hours each day, in addition to whatever sleep you get. And eat as much as you can, it will help strengthen your organic systems.”

 

“I will comply, Doctor.”

 

“All right then. Off you go to see the captain.”

 

B’Elanna and Seven left sickbay headed for the turbolifts.

 

“Are you sure you want to do this, Seven?”

 

“It will enhance the effect for the Ma’altareans.”

 

“OK, you know what to do, right?” The lift door opened.

 

“Yes, B’Elanna, I know what to do.” Seven entered the lift and turned to face front.

 

“OK, then. I’ll see you in the conference room at 2100. Good luck, Your Borgness!” B’Elanna’s affection was clear. Seven gave her a small smile.

 

“Thank you…Klingon. Computer, Deck three.”

 

The turbolift deposited Seven in the corridor of the command officers’ quarters. Janeway’s quarters were at the end of the hallway past Tuvok’s, Chakotay’s and the VIP suite. Seven pressed the chime requesting entrance. After a moment, the door opened and Janeway regarded her.

 

“Please come in, Seven. How did the visit to the Doctor go?”

 

“He declared my shoulder ‘still a mess’, Captain, but it would seem the rest of me is functioning adequately.”

 

Janeway chuckled at Seven’s humor, grateful for her attempt to ease what was obviously going to be an uncomfortable situation for both of them.

 

“Would you like to sit down?” she indicated the sofa.

 

“Thank you. That would be…acceptable.”

 

Janeway noticed Seven’s mouth tense when she leaned back against the sofa. She’s in pain. God, her shoulder is still a gaping wound and the joint is destroyed. It must be agony.

 

“Seven, hang on a minute.” Janeway brought two pillows from her bed back into the living area. “Lean forward just a bit, OK?”

 

Seven leaned forward and Janeway eased the soft pillow behind the injured shoulder, cushioning it. She used the second pillow to cushion and support Seven’s arm.

 

“Is that better?”

 

Janeway heard a soft and very un-Borg-like sigh of relief and the tightness around Seven’s mouth relaxed. “Very much, Captain. Thank you.”

 

“How about some tea? Are you thirsty?”

 

“Tea would be acceptable.”

 

Janeway fetched the tea and a coffee for herself. She sat next to Seven, somewhat at a loss where to begin.

 

“So, we’re engaged…”

 

Seven smiled her small smile. “So it would seem.”

 

“You must be…I didn’t mean…” Janeway shook her head in frustration. “I’m doing this badly. Seven, I need to apologize to you. I was out of control when we arrived back here, and that was inexcusable. I said horrible things to you that I didn’t mean. I don’t even know where those words came from. I haven’t thought of you as a drone since we severed your connection to the Collective. It infuriates me when I hear someone else do so. You’ve learned so much since you came to Voyager; I’m so proud of you and who you’ve become. I am so terribly sorry for what I said to you. I know it will take time for you to forgive me, but…” Janeway gazed down at her hands, clasped in her lap. She watched as a metal and mesh Borg hand softly covered hers. It always amazed her that something that looked so cold and formidable could be so warm and gentle.

 

“Captain, there is no need. I understand. There is nothing to forgive. I behaved brutally to you and could give you no reason why. I ask your forgiveness for that.”

 

Janeway raised her eyes to Seven’s.

 

“You never have to apologize for protecting me. I know now why you did what you did. Why it was necessary. If I had taken the time to learn why at the time, I wouldn’t need to apologize now.”

 

“Then can we be efficient and merely forgive each other?”

 

Janeway felt tears fill her eyes and blinked them back. “I would like that very much.” The two women just smiled at each other. Janeway was thrilled that Seven did not remove her hand.

 

Seven cocked her cortical implant. “So, we are engaged.” Repeating Janeway's earlier words with nearly the same inflection as the captain had broke the tension. Janeway laughed.

 

“What do we do now?”

 

“We should discuss how I must behave for the next week. I do not know the correct way to be a fiancée.”

 

“Well, you’ll probably need to hold my hand a lot.” The little voice in Janeway’s head threw in its two cents. Holding hands! YES!!

 

“I will comply.”

 

“And I suppose it wouldn’t hurt if you put your arm around me once in a while.” Oh yeah, I LOVE that arm around you bit!!

 

“I will comply.”

 

“There will probably be a few times when we’ll have to kiss…”

 

Seven frowned slightly. “I have no experience in romantic kissing. Should I run a holodeck simulation and practice? I do not wish to be…inadequate.”

 

“That won’t be necessary. If you need to practice, you can practice with me.” The little voice in Janeway’s head was dancing its happy dance. Ho boy! Kissing Seven! It doesn’t get any better than this!! Well, actually, if the kissing goes well, it could get better…Don’t go there!!

 

The frown disappeared and the smile returned. “I will comply.”

 

“Oh, and Seven? When we’re alone here and when we’re on the planet? Would you call me Kathryn?”

 

“I will com-…Yes, Kathryn.”

 

“Anything else we’ll just have to wing it.”

 

“’Wing it?’ Explain.”

 

“Make it up as we go along.”

 

“I understand. Have you decided what you will tell the Premier?”

 

"Well, B'Elanna's idea should work. We will explain about my Traditionalist background and needing an engagement period."

 

“Is there anything that I will need to add?”

 

“Just stand by me and act like you’re a willing participant.”

 

“Yes, Kathryn. I will be. How would your engagement occur if you were on Earth? I have not had sufficient time to research the customs surrounding marriage there.”

 

“Well, first of all, you and I would have been involved in a romantic relationship for a while before we decided to get engaged. Then we would tell our families. Sometimes there are parties for the engaged couple. We would decide if we wanted a two-year contract or the old-style ‘til death do us part’ kind of marriage. I seem to recall an old earth custom of formally requesting the permission of the parents before becoming engaged. I guess that would mean you’d have to ask my mother’s permission to marry me.” Janeway grinned at Seven. “But don’t worry, she’s pretty friendly. I don’t think she’d hurt you too badly.”

 

“This would not be a good idea, Kathryn. Not only would your mother probably not be happy with an ex-Borg daughter-in-law, but think…you would have to ask the Borg Queen for permission to marry me. You do not do well around the Borg.” The smile on Seven’s face when Janeway howled with laughter could have lit a black hole.

 

Seven was still smiling when she gently disengaged her hand and stood up.

 

“Where are you going, Seven?”

 

“I am not going anywhere, Kathryn. There is a task I must complete before we contact the Premier.”

 

With that, she eased down on one knee in front of Janeway. She reached out and took her hand. Kathryn’s breath caught in her throat and her eyes widened.

 

Seven looked deep into the blue-gray depths and asked gently, “Kathryn Elizabeth Janeway, will you marry me?”

 

Captain Kathryn Janeway had no earthly idea why she responded as she did. Her awareness condensed to only the woman in front of her. Seven's gaze meeting hers became her entire universe. The words were out almost before she could consider them.  “Seven, I…Yes. Yes, I will.”

 

Seven of Nine reached into the breast pocket of her shirt and pulled out a gold band with a flawless solitaire diamond and slipped it on the fourth finger of Kathryn’s left hand.

 

“I…Seven…it’s beautiful! Where did you get it?”

 

“Kathryn, you do not want to know.”

 

“Seven, this ring is gorgeous. But I know…” Janeway’s eyes narrowed fractionally. “The replicators wouldn’t do anything this complex without…Seven?”

 

Seven tried to look innocent. She was not possessed of a very good poker face.

 

“You didn’t! Tell me you didn’t override the replicator protocols!!”

 

“Lt. Torres thought…”

 

“You and B’Elanna hot-wired the replicators?!?”

 

Seven clamped her mouth closed and refused to say anything else. It was the closest she could come to invoking her Federation rights against self-incrimination.

 

As hard as she tried, Janeway could not suppress her laughter. She laughed until tears rolled down her cheeks. When she finally caught her breath she regarded the young woman still on her knee in front of her.

 

“I think I liked it better when you and B’Elanna weren’t friends. The two of you are dangerous when you put your heads together.” She chuckled as she looked at the ring again. “But thank you, Seven. The ring is beautiful. And I’ve forgotten how good it feels to really laugh in the past couple of weeks. Thank you for that too.”

 

“You are not angry, Kathryn?”

 

“I should be. God knows, you two have violated about six different Starfleet security regulations that I can think of offhand. Just promise me that you will never override the protocols again. I assume the ring can be recycled back into the replicator system?”

 

“If the need arises, yes it can. And I promise not to initiate another protocol override.”

 

Janeway laughed again. “One thing’s for certain, Seven. Marriage to you would never be dull.”

 

 

When Janeway and Seven walked into the conference room an hour later it took less than a minute for jaws around the table to drop open. It was difficult to miss the glittering diamond on the ring finger of the captain’s left hand. There was a moment of total silence and then everyone started talking at once.

 

“Quiet down,” said Janeway. “I know you all have questions. Let me make it easy for you. In keeping with Terran custom, Seven formally asked me to marry her and I agreed. This way, we aren’t dealing from a false position with the Ma’altareans. Everything is above-board. Has anyone come up with any new wrinkles in our plan during the past three hours? Anything we haven’t considered?”

 

No one had. So they adjourned to the bridge and hailed the Premier. Janeway sat in her command chair with Seven standing next to her. As the Premier came on the view screen she greeted him.

 

“Good evening my lord Premier.”

 

“Captain Janeway! It is good to see you again. And Seven of Nine! We are so pleased that you have recovered! Are you feeling any ill effects from your ordeal?”

 

Seven gently rested her left hand on the captain’s shoulder. “Other than my shoulder, none, my lord. Thank you.”

 

“Our Doctor will undertake the repair of Seven’s shoulder once we get back into space. He thought it best for her to regain more strength before undergoing additional surgery.”

 

“A prudent choice. Well, Captain, Seven, we have much to discuss. May I invite you to breakfast in the morning so that we may begin?”

 

“We would be delighted, my lord. What time would be best?”

 

“My wife and I will expect you at 0830 hours. Is that acceptable?”

 

“Perfectly, my lord. We look forward to it. Voyager out.”

 

She turned to the rest of the command staff. “Well, that’s it then until morning. I think we’re going to be busy for the next few days. Chakotay, you have the bridge.”

 

As they entered the turbolift, Janeway asked the EMH and Seven to join her in her quarters. When they got there, she replicated coffee for herself and tea for Seven. If the Doctor was surprised when she eased the pillows around Seven’s injured shoulder he didn’t show it.

 

“Doctor, is there anything I need to know about caring for Seven’s shoulder? We might need to be on the planet surface for lengthy periods.”

 

“No, Captain. As long as Seven can see me twice a day she should be fine. Just always remember that shoulder wound is still an acute injury. It is not healed in the slightest. Treat it gently and she should be fine until we can repair it permanently. Seven, I’ll see you in the morning…say 0730 hours?”

 

“I will comply, Doctor.”

 

“Then ladies, I’ll wish you good night.” With that, he beamed himself back to Sickbay.

 

“I suppose you don’t need to regenerate again. You just came out of a week-long cycle a few hours ago. Can you sleep?”

 

“My sleeping habits are irregular at best, Captain. I do not require sleep at this time. There is work I can do until morning.”

 

“Seven, I don’t want you to tire yourself out. Will you be OK alone in your quarters or would you like to work here?”

 

“I will be fine in my quarters, Captain. I will leave you to sleep.” She stood up and moved toward the door.

 

“Seven, wait.” Janeway rose and walked to her. Her eyes twinkled. “It’s customary for engaged couples to kiss each other good night. We should get in the habit of doing those things so it looks natural and not awkward. But I’m afraid to touch you…I don’t want to hurt you.”

 

Seven smiled and touched her cheek. She leaned forward and gently pressed her lips against Kathryn’s. The kiss lasted a few moments; a few moments of bliss for Janeway. It was far more than adequate.

 

“Good night, Kathryn. Sleep well.” And suddenly she was alone.

 

YES!!!!

 

 

Janeway met Seven in the main Transporter Room at 0815 hours the next morning. Tuvok and B’Elanna were to accompany them acting as a loose security detail. B’Elanna carried a small med kit the Doctor had provided containing the irrigation solution and a few sterile dressings in case they had a problem on the surface and could not immediately return to Voyager. Janeway wore her usual uniform and Seven had replicated light gray slacks and a midnight blue silk shirt for the occasion. Both women looked stunning; the stress of the last two weeks not apparent in either.

 

They were met at the entrance to the Premier’s residence by an aide and escorted into a small, intimate dining room. Premier Tor’vaq and his wife Pel’toor greeted them cordially. When all were seated, Pel’toor nodded to the attending staff and the first course of a sumptuous breakfast was served. Conversation flowed easily, with the Premier and his wife explaining wedding customs of Ma’altara Prime and Janeway outlining Terran custom. The Premier was gracious when informed of the Terran tradition of an engagement period, but seemed willing enough to forgo an official wedding for a betrothal blessing. He inquired if either Janeway or Seven had religious requirements; when informed that neither did he nodded.

 

“That will uncomplicate matters. Of course, with the blessing of your betrothal you will both become citizens of Ma’altara Prime, and your children will also have full rights of citizenship.”

 

Pel’toor explained the details of the evening’s ceremony. It was decided that Janeway would wear her dress uniform and Seven would wear traditional Ma’altarean warrior garb. Arrangements were made for Seven to be fitted for her garments at the main garrison complex later in the morning. The meeting and meal went smoothly, and was concluded by the Premier and his wife inviting Janeway and Seven to spend the night at the Premier’s residence after the ceremony. There was a reception planned for immediately after the ceremony and a formal breakfast for the following morning. The Captain and Seven agreed, and arranged to rejoin the Premier and his wife at 1830 hours that night.

 

As they left the residence, Janeway asked Tuvok and B’Elanna if they would mind accompanying Seven and her to the main market area of the city. Neither had objections and the four strolled along a broad avenue enjoying the morning sunshine. It seemed like every person they passed smiled broadly and wished them well. Several military officers saluted Seven and made a point of congratulating her. Janeway was amazed at the ease with which Seven dealt with them. She was gracious in responding to their praise, but expressed regret at the loss of life the ritual had caused. Most nodded in agreement, declaring Pal’quaar a fool and generally deserving of his fate. Many indicated they would be in attendance at the ceremony that night.

 

As they passed an official-looking building they heard their names called. They turned to see Captain Ta’arqual coming down the steps of the building. It was the main garrison building, and he was to oversee the fitting of Seven’s clothing for the ceremony. After agreeing to meet at a café in two hours, B’Elanna, Seven and Ta’arqual entered the garrison building and Janeway and Tuvok continued on to the marketplace.

 

Ta’arqual introduced them to several other officers of his cadre on their way to the military tailor. Once there, Seven was fitted with a pair of snug white breeches, knee-high black boots, a high-collared white shirt and a hip-length robe of deep blue which was worn overlapped across the chest and secured with a wide sash. She was initially reluctant to wear a military uniform, claiming she had no right to do so.

 

“You earned the right when you defeated Pal’quaar,” Ta’arqual said simply. The tailor nodded.

 

Ta’arqual explained a tradition that members of the warrior’s cadre would escort the warrior to the joining ceremony. The warrior’s mate would usually be escorted by family. He requested that his cadre be allowed to escort Seven of Nine. She gently refused, claiming that if she required an escort, she wished B’Elanna to do so. Ta’arqual was disappointed but gracious.

 

Once the fitting was completed, they adjourned to the Officer’s Mess where other members of Ta’arqual’s cadre had gathered. Glasses of wine were passed around and the traditional Ma’altarean toast for marital happiness was made to Seven. When the glasses were drained, Ta’arqual explained to them that Seven wished B’Elanna to escort her that night.

 

“Is she a warrior?” asked one of the officers. Whereupon Lt. Torres stood up to her full height and gave them a discourse on the Klingon warrior tradition. When she finished, she was immediately ‘commissioned’ as an honorary member of the cadre and hustled off to be fitted for her own garments. B’Elanna and the cadre would escort Seven as was fitting. They filled the remaining time recounting stories of Voyager’s journey home; most notably Janeway’s handling of the Borg. The cadre was impressed.

 

Janeway and Tuvok discovered that the marketplace was a large square surrounded by shops of every kind. The center of the square held an ornate fountain with benches around it. It was tree-shaded and paved with smoothed blocks of the local gray rock. They strolled around, visiting several of the shops and generally enjoying a day in the sun away from Voyager.

 

Janeway found a jeweler’s shop and decided Seven should have an engagement ring too. She found a wide gold band with a brilliant blue stone inset. Tuvok helped her approximate Seven’s size and the jeweler agreed to resize the ring should it not fit. The idea of giving Seven a ring excited Janeway in a way she didn’t try to understand. She was truly happy for the first time in a long time and was determined to enjoy it for as long as possible. Command responsibilities and internal fears would intrude soon enough; for the time being she was content to be just Kathryn, the woman who loved Seven of Nine.

 

They found the café Ta’arqual had mentioned and settled at a table. They ordered glasses of an iced spice tea and chatted while they waited for Seven and B’Elanna to rejoin them. They didn’t have long to wait. When Seven, B’Elanna and Ta’arqual were seated, B’Elanna recounted her induction into Ta’arqual’s cadre for escort duty that night. It was decided that Senior Staff would escort Janeway so tradition would be upheld by both parties. The conversation was lively and enjoyable. Ta’arqual excused himself and returned to the garrison after a few minutes.

 

After half an hour, Janeway rose and asked Seven to join her for a moment. They walked to a bench facing the fountain and sat down. Janeway presented Seven with the ring, but to her dismay, Seven seemed upset.

 

“Seven, what’s wrong? Don’t you like the ring?”

 

“The ring is beautiful, Kathryn. That is not the problem.”

 

“Then what IS the problem?”

 

“This,” said Seven, looking down at her left hand. “You have a beautiful hand on which to wear a ring. I have only…this. It is not human. It is Borg.”

 

Janeway took a deep breath and clasped the hand in both of hers.

 

“It is YOUR hand. And it IS beautiful because you are. I will never forgive the Borg for what they did to you; for what they took from you. But you have overcome all of it. You are a beautiful person Seven, outside and inside. There is no one I could be prouder to be engaged to or marry than you. In any quadrant of any galaxy.” She raised Seven’s hand to her lips and kissed it gently.

 

“You are a very persuasive woman, Kathryn.”

 

Janeway smiled. “No, only a truthful one. Will you wear the ring?”

 

“I would be…honored.” Janeway slipped it on her finger.

 

Seven regarded it for a long moment then looked at Kathryn. Their kiss seemed the most natural thing in the world. The Ma’altareans on the square smiled indulgently at the lovers. Tuvok seemed unfazed but B’Elanna inhaled audibly.

 

“Kahless! Tuvok, what’s going on with the captain??”

 

“I believe that Captain Janeway is finally coming to grips with the feelings she has for Seven of Nine. It has been a long time coming.”

 

“Do you mean that the captain loves her? Really loves her?”

 

“I believe so. The Captain has many issues she battles that have kept her from seeking personal happiness. I hope the events of the past two weeks help her finally overcome them.”

 

B’Elanna was dazed. “You mean the two of them are actually in love?”

 

“I assume from what I heard Seven tell you that she loves Captain Janeway. I have known the captain nearly twenty years and I believe that she loves Seven as well.”

 

B’Elanna let out a short bark of laughter. “Tuvok, if we ever manage to get back to the Alpha quadrant, we’d have the makings for one hell of a holo-novel! We could both retire.”

 

Tuvok only arched an eyebrow and watched as Kathryn and Seven strolled hand-in-hand back to their table.

 

 

That evening most of Voyager’s crew donned their dress uniforms and prepared to beam down to the surface for the biggest event since Voyager’s launch. For those on duty, the ceremony would be comm linked to view screens all over the ship.

 

The EMH came to Seven’s quarters to clean and dress her shoulder for the night. When he saw the warrior garb Seven was to wear for the ceremony, he decided that B’Elanna would need his help to get Seven dressed. He declared the state of their boots deplorable and spent nearly an hour buffing them to a high shine. He fussed so long getting the ceremonial sashes tied just so B’Elanna suggested to Seven in a whisper that they deactivate his program and hide his mobile emitter.

 

“Bridge to Lt. Torres.”

 

“Torres here.”

 

“Lieutenant, we’ve been hailed from the surface. Your ‘cadre’ is requesting permission to beam aboard.”

 

“Permission granted. Have them escorted to Cargo Bay two when they arrive.”

 

“Aye, Lieutenant.”

 

The EMH was circling B’Elanna doing a final once-over. She fidgeted under his gaze and scowled at him.

 

“Do you have to be so critical? We’ve done everything just like we were instructed. We look fine.”

 

“You are representing Voyager. I won’t have you looking like you spent the evening at a Kendarian orgy.”

 

“Doctor, are you attending the ceremony?” Seven asked to ease the tension.

 

“I wasn’t invited,” he replied acidly.

 

“Can you modify your program matrix to include a dress uniform?”

 

“I can.”

 

“Then I am inviting you.” Seven tapped the comm badge pinned to her shirt. “Seven to the captain.”

 

“Janeway here Seven.”

 

“Captain, would you mind an addition to your escort this evening?”

 

“Who did you have in mind?”

 

“The EMH. As CMO he is a member of Senior Staff.”

 

There was a pause before Janeway replied, “Seven, I should have thought of that myself. Thank you for correcting my oversight. My escort is gathering in my quarters at 1815 hours. Please tell the Doctor I look forward to his joining us. Janeway out.”

 

Holograms do not feel emotion, but the expression on the EMH’s face radiated pleasure. His matrix flickered for an instant and just that quick he was in full dress uniform.

 

“Thank you, Seven, It’s nice to know that someone on this ship has some sensitivity. Now, I’ve put a med kit in your overnight bag. It’s got the sterile wash, dressings and several painkiller hyposprays in case you need them. They’ll also help you sleep. There’s a padd in it with complete instructions on your wound care for the captain. You ladies look stunning. I’ll see you on the surface.”

 

As he reached the door, the chime sounded. He opened it to confront Ta’arqual and five of his cadre. The huge Ma’altareans had to duck slightly to get through the doorway, and it was several moments before the EMH could make his exit. Ta’arqual examined both women from head to toe and nodded his approval.

 

“You are both a credit to the cadre. But you’re slightly out of uniform.” He stepped forward and solemnly fastened the insignia of the cadre around their throats. It was a strip of red silk ribbon from which hung an enameled golden sunburst about three inches across. The sunburst hung at the base of their throats; its colors emphasized by the brilliant white of their shirts.

 

“There. Now you are ready. Shall we go?”

 

B’Elanna grabbed Seven’s carryall and slung its strap over her shoulder. They headed out of the Cargo Bay for the main Transporter Room. Those members of Voyager’s crew they passed looked on in amazement. They were an impressive sight.

 

They beamed down to the Premier’s residence. B’Elanna handed Seven’s bag to one of the staff to be placed in the guest suite. They accepted glasses of wine as they awaited the arrival of Janeway and her escort, chatting with the Premier and his wife.

 

Captain Janeway had none of the difficulties dressing as her two officers had, having long experience with the intricacies of Starfleet dress uniforms. When her escort had assembled, she made a point of apologizing to the EMH for neglecting to include him.

 

“No apology necessary, Captain. Seven was most gracious in her invitation. The two of you make a good team.”

 

“I think so too,” said Janeway with a smile.

 

“We all think so, Captain,” said Ensign Paris. Janeway was touched at his thought.

 

“Shall we, gentlemen?” She indicated the door.

 

Harry took the captain’s carryall and they headed to the Transporter Room and the planet surface. When they arrived, the Premier and his wife offered a toast to the couple’s future happiness and the group left the residence for the short walk to the Temple Prime. The Premier and his party led the way, with Seven and the captain walking behind them, each followed by their escort. The Ma’altareans on the street clapped and cheered as the entourage passed.

 

“Seven, if I don’t get another chance to tell you this evening, you look absolutely breathtaking in that uniform.”

 

“Thank you, Kathryn. I had misgivings originally, but Ta’arqual insisted, as did his cadre. The Doctor was most thorough in his sash tying earlier. B’Elanna and I may never get them untied again.”

 

Janeway laughed and felt a thrill shoot through her as Seven casually wrapped her arm around her shoulders. She slipped hers around Seven’s waist, taking care not to jostle the sling on her injured side.

 

It was not long before they reached the Temple Prime. The plaza in front of the Temple was filled with hundreds of people and most of the crew of Voyager. The ceremony was to take place on an elevated terrace in front of the entrance to the Temple. As they neared the steps leading up to the terrace, Seven and her escort went to steps on one side of the terrace; Janeway and hers went to those on the opposite side. The Premier and his party ascended the main steps and took their places behind the Deacon. Seven and her cadre formed up and marched up the steps, coming to a halt at the Deacon’s side. When they were in place, Janeway and the rest of Senior Staff climbed the opposite steps and Janeway stopped a pace away from Seven, facing her.

 

The Deacon gave a short benediction for all present. When he finished, the Premier stepped forward and made a brief speech celebrating the captain, Seven and the crew of Voyager. He expressed hopes that a treaty he and Janeway were to sign in two days would be the first of many with the Federation and Starfleet. He concluded by wishing Janeway and Seven lifelong happiness and joy.

 

The Deacon stepped forward again. “Guardians of the Cosmos, we beg your blessings on these two beings. They come to swear fidelity and love, secure in their promises to each other. Grant them long life, good health, happiness and the joy of offspring. Keep them true to each other regardless of hardship or trial. Let them face adversity side by side; their love shielding them and cementing their bond. We ask this in the name of all who have come before and all who will follow. All praise to you.”

 

He instructed Seven and Janeway to join hands, then took a white silk scarf and wrapped it around their clasped hands.

 

“As this symbol of purity binds your hands together, let the purity of your promise to each other guide you in your lives. Be faithful, be kind and gentle. Support each other in your endeavors. Forgive each other the hurts you cause, and encourage each other to become more than you are. Be each other’s anchor in times of plenty and in times of want, in times of sickness and in times of health, in times of joy and in times of sorrow, in times of failure and in times of triumph. Cherish, protect and comfort each other. Do you promise this?

 

“I do,” said Seven, gaze fixed on Janeway.

 

“I do,” said Janeway, warmed by the glow in those blue eyes.

 

“Then the blessings of the Guardians be on you. May your joining be joyous and soon.”

 

The terrace and plaza erupted in cheers and a voice rang out.

 

“Don’t just stand there, KISS HER!”

 

“What an excellent idea,” laughed Janeway as she stepped to Seven. Seven wrapped her arm around Janeway’s waist as the smaller woman reached up to cup her face. When their lips met, Janeway was overcome by the incredible softness of Seven’s skin. The arm around her waist pulled her firmly against her partner and their kiss deepened. Janeway slipped her hands around Seven’s neck as she felt a rush of heat throughout her body. Time stopped as she felt Seven’s mouth upon on hers and the tentative touch of Seven’s tongue on her lips. Ardently, she opened her lips and returned the intimate touch, overcome by the intensity of the feeling. Gasping, she broke the kiss; drawing Seven’s head down and whispered in her ear.

 

“You don’t need to practice kissing. You are a spectacular kisser!” She felt Seven’s smile against her cheek as Voyager’s crew roared their approval.

 

They separated then, and accepted the congratulations of the Premier, his wife and the Deacon Prime. Ta’arqual, the cadre and Voyager’s Senior Staff surrounded them wishing them well and offering congratulations. Holding hands, they descended the steps into the sea of Starfleet uniforms at the front of the plaza. Every member of the crew seemed happy for them and offered best wishes. Finally, Janeway caught Chakotay’s eye. He nodded and got everyone’s attention.

 

“We have a reception to get to. Go and enjoy yourselves at the festival!”

 

Gradually, the groups broke up and the officers headed back to the Premier’s residence for the reception. It was a lavish affair with delicious food and wonderful music. Janeway and Seven were constantly being congratulated by members of Ma’altara Prime’s aristocracy and government. Kathryn got a plate of food from the buffet and fed Seven bites between chatting with those present.

 

After about an hour, Janeway noticed the tightening around Seven’s mouth and eyes.

 

“Seven, are you in pain?”

 

“It is manageable, Kathryn. I am feeling fatigued and that emphasizes it.”

 

“Then let me make our excuses and let’s get you to bed. You need to rest; it’s been a long day. We could both use a good night’s sleep.”

 

They sought out the Premier and informed him that Seven needed to rest. Pel’toor summoned an aide to show them to their quarters and bid them good night. As they worked their way out of the crowded room, Janeway hailed Chakotay on her comm badge.

 

“Chakotay, Seven’s exhausted. We’re going to turn in. We’ll see you in the morning at breakfast. Enjoy the party.”

 

“Understood Captain. Good night. Chakotay out.”

 

The guest suite was just as opulent as the rest of the residence. There was a large sitting room with a fireplace, spacious bedroom and fully appointed bath. Their bags were waiting on the bed.

 

“Oh my,” said Janeway when she caught sight of the enormous bed. “I think the whole Senior Staff could sleep here. We should have invited them.”

 

Seven smiled as she sat heavily on the edge of the bed. Her shoulder was throbbing badly and she was more tired than she had thought. Her head drooped.

 

“Let’s get those boots off.” Janeway grasped Seven’s foot and tugged a high boot off, then removed the other.

 

“Will you need to be in the uniform at breakfast?”

 

“Yes, Kathryn.”

 

“Then let’s get everything recycled.” She helped Seven stand up and fumbled with the sash.

“I see what you meant about the Doctor’s sash tying.” Finally, the intricate knot gave way. Janeway eased Seven out of the shoulder stabilizer and out of the blue robe. Seven got out of her shirt and pants and Janeway handed her pajamas.

 

“Does your shoulder need to be redressed tonight?” she asked as she put Seven’s clothing into the recycler for tomorrow.

 

“No, the Doctor did that before we left for the planet. I should be fine until morning.” Seven had pulled on the bottoms but was having problems with the top. Janeway moved to help her, trying hard not to stare at the superb body. Once she had the top buttoned, she reached for the stabilizer.

 

“I think it would be best if you slept in this to hold you shoulder immobile.” She re-fastened the sling and looked deep into Seven’s eyes.

 

“You’re in pain aren’t you? Bad pain?” Seven nodded bleakly.

 

“There is a med kit in my bag. It contains several hyposprays for pain.”

 

Janeway located the hyposprays and grabbed two. She injected one into Seven’s neck and set the other on the nightstand beside the bed.

 

“Just in case you need it during the night.” Janeway pulled back the covers and helped Seven into bed. “Let me get some extra pillows for you.” She hailed the house staff and requested pillows to brace Seven’s arm and shoulder. While she waited, she went into the bathroom and changed into her gown for bed. She removed Seven’s cleaned clothing from the recycler and recycled her own. A maid arrived with the pillows, and she eased them around Seven to keep her shoulder from moving and her arm supported. She walked around the bed and climbed in the opposite side.

 

“Lights out.”

 

Kathryn settled into the soft bed, then rolled over next to Seven. She propped herself up on one elbow and gently kissed her.

 

“Sleep well. Wake me if you need anything during the night.”

 

“I will, Kathryn. Good night,” Seven mumbled. The hypospray was obviously working.

 

Janeway rolled back over and surrendered to sleep herself, smiling as she thought about the day.

I’m engaged to Seven of Nine and I love it.

 

Seven was awakened abruptly by an insistent pressure. Her internal chronometer told her it was 0337 hours; far too early to rise. She turned her head to the left and regarded the source of her awakening.

 

Janeway was sound asleep and snuggled up against Seven. Her arm was draped over Seven’s stomach and one leg was intertwined with Seven’s. The young woman regarded her with fondness. She eased her left arm from between them, raising it over her head and dropping it onto the pillow above her head. Janeway responded to the lack of interference by burrowing even closer to Seven. Her head nestled into Seven’s neck and shoulder, arm and leg tightened their grip. Seven lowered her left arm and wrapped it around Kathryn, pulling her even closer. This elicited a highly contented sound from the slumbering woman and Seven smiled. She eased her cheek against Janeway’s forehead, closed her eyes and fell back to sleep, surrounded in the warmth that was Kathryn Janeway.

 

 

“The time is 0700 hours,” intoned the room’s chronometer.

 

Kathryn Janeway opened her eyes, aware of delightful warmth suffusing her and the fact that she had slept soundly for the first time in months. She was immediately aware that she has been sleeping in Seven’s embrace and that the delightful warmth she felt was being generated by her fiancée. Emotional turmoil caused her to reflexively pull away, only to encounter Borg resistance.

 

“Good morning, Kathryn,” said Seven softly as she drew the older woman back firmly against her. “Did you sleep well?”

 

Kathryn forced herself to relax and enjoy the embrace.

 

“Yes I did.” And I would gladly wake up this way every morning of my life, if only I could.

 

The reality of the situation struck her acutely. This joy would soon be over; tomorrow she would sign a treaty with the Ma’altarean Protectorate and Voyager would break orbit to resume its journey home. This interlude of happiness would end. She would once again be Captain Janeway; command and responsibility would come first. Kathryn the woman would be forced back into the confines of her dreams, as would her love for Seven of Nine. She promised herself to enjoy every moment of the time they had left together. This wonderful feeling of being held tight against Seven was a good place to start.

 

She eased her head back to look at the younger woman. Seven’s eyes shone with love as she leaned forward and kissed Kathryn gently. Kathryn rolled partially on top of her and deepened the kiss, briefly touching Seven’s lips with her tongue, seeking entrance. Seven opened her lips and the contact when their tongues met was electric. Kathryn felt a groan of desire rise in her throat; she raised her hand to caress Seven’s face. And inadvertently pressed down on the injured shoulder. Seven gasped; but in pain, not delight. Janeway broke the embrace.

 

“Oh sweetheart, I’m so sorry! Are you all right? My god, I hurt you!”

 

“It is all right, Kathryn. It was an accident. It is just so awkward having only one working arm. I will ask the Doctor to schedule the reconstructive surgery as soon as we get back into space.” She gazed at Kathryn longingly. “It will be good to have two arms with which to hold you.”

 

“Let’s get up; I’ll need to redress your shoulder after you shower. Is there anything we need to do before you shower?”

 

“There is an instruction padd in the med kit in my bag. There are plastiseal dressings for me to use in the shower. You can flush the wound after I shower and redress it then.”

 

“Stay here for a minute while I read the padd. I never asked…did you sleep well last night?”

 

Seven gave her the small smile that spoke volumes. “I was awakened very early this morning by a determined sleeping woman pushing up against me.” Janeway blushed at the thought. “But once I wrapped my arm around her and pulled her close she never moved again. It was a most pleasant way to sleep and I enjoyed it very much. I have decided that sleep, at least sleeping with you, is not in the least irrelevant. It is in fact most efficient.”

 

Kathryn grinned. “Thank you. I don’t think I’ve ever been paid a compliment in quite that fashion before.”

 

She climbed out of bed and found the padd in the med kit. As she read the Doctor’s instructions, the door chimed. She put down the padd and went to answer it. B’Elanna was standing in the hallway.

 

“I thought maybe you could use some help with Seven’s shoulder,” the stocky Klingon said by way of greeting.

 

“Thanks, I wasn’t looking forward to that,” said Janeway.

 

Together, they got the brace off Seven and eased her pajama top off her injured shoulder. Janeway removed the dressing and had to stifle a gasp of alarm. The deep slash across the shoulder was over six inches long and weeping a pinkish fluid. Fascia and bone were visible in it. B’Elanna noticed Janeway’s dismay and quickly moved to cover the wound with the plastiseal dressing.

 

“There you go Borg, let’s get you into the shower.” B’Elanna took Seven’s arm and helped her into the bathroom. She emerged in a moment as the shower came on.

 

Janeway was sitting on the bed, tears flowing down her cheeks.

 

“Captain…” began the engineer.

 

“It’s nothing, B’Elanna. I just…every time I’m reminded of what she went through for me…how close I came…we came…to losing her…”

 

“Are you going to remember that when we get back into space?”

 

“I beg your pardon?”

 

“I said, are you going to…”

 

“I heard what you said. What did you mean?”

 

“Permission to speak freely, Captain?”

 

“Go ahead.”

 

“Seven is my friend and I don’t want to see her hurt. She risked everything for you. She loves you with every ounce of her Borg-enhanced being. I know, just as surely as I know the laws of particle physics that make my warp core work, that she’s not going to want this engagement to end just because Voyager is back in space. What I want to know is if you’re going to break her heart once we get there.”

 

“It’s complicated and it’s going to be a difficult situation. Starfleet does not look kindly on a captain and a crew member fraternizing. I don’t know what I’m going to do about that.”

 

“With all due respect, Captain, command principles are all well and good when you’re safe in the Alpha quadrant and the rest of Starfleet is just a hail away. But we’re thousands of light years from the Alpha quadrant; on our own. We’ve broken regulations so many times I can’t even count them just to stay alive. You’ve said it yourself…a lot of the time we’re making it up as we go along. Do you really want to fall back on the lame excuse of Starfleet and hurt her like that?”

 

“I care for her, very much. I think that’s been obvious in the past couple of weeks. I owe her my life. I don’t know if I could even go back to the way things were. I’ve come to realize…admit…that I…love…her too. I just don’t know if it’s going to be possible to maintain a relationship once we get back into space and headed home again.”

 

“So you’re just going to leave her hanging, is that it? Just break her heart? Captain, if you do that I…I…”

 

“You’ll what, Lieutenant?”

 

“I’ll…I’ll…nothing, Captain.” B’Elanna’s disgusted look spoke volumes despite her words.

 

“B’Elanna, there’s more at stake here than just my feelings or Seven’s feelings. I will always be the captain, I will always have to put the ship and the crew ahead of anything and everything else. It’s my duty. A relationship would always be second to that.”

 

B’Elanna heard the shower cycle off. She shook her head and stared at her commanding officer.

 

“You’re being offered the kind of love that comes along once in a lifetime if you’re lucky. And you’re just going to throw it away? You must be out of your mind.” She walked away from Janeway over to the door of the bathroom, knocked and entered.

 

Janeway sat on the bed for a moment lost in thought. Then she stood up and gathered her clothes. When B’Elanna and Seven emerged from the bathroom she entered and shut the door behind her. By the time she’d finished her ablutions; B’Elanna had redressed Seven’s shoulder and helped her into her shirt and pants. Janeway helped her get the knee high boots on Seven and the sash tied around her waist. As Janeway was fastening the sling and brace, B’Elanna gathered up their bags.

 

“I’ll have these beamed back to the ship and meet you downstairs,” she said. Seven looked at her closely. Something has happened between the engineer and the captain while she was in the shower. As B’Elanna left, she turned to face Kathryn.

 

“Did you and B’Elanna argue?”

 

“No, we just had a small difference of opinion.”

 

“I see. May I ask the subject of your difference of opinion?”

 

“My failings as a human being,” Kathryn said with grimace.

 

“Should I speak with B’Elanna?”

 

“No, it isn’t necessary. Come on, we have two more days of leisure and I want to enjoy every minute. I don’t want to think about the ship or the crew or command. I just want to be with you.” I just want to make memories to live on for the rest of my life. Memories to keep me warm in the cold of space when I can’t be with you.

 

She reached out and took Seven’s hand and together they went down to breakfast.

 

 

After the formal breakfast, there was a tour of the capital and surrounding areas. When they had visited the Museum of Cultural History, they returned to the Premier’s residence for a light lunch. The rest of Voyager’s staff beamed back to the ship and Janeway and Seven chose to return to the marketplace for the afternoon.

 

As they sat at a café enjoying the bright sunshine, Janeway contemplated what the following days might bring. Could she ignore what had been drilled into her for her entire Starfleet career and try to make a life with Seven? She had lost everyone else she had loved; the thought of losing Seven paralyzed her. Their position in the Delta quadrant was so precarious that the odds of any one of Voyager’s crew being killed were far higher than was usual. Seven’s unique knowledge of the quadrant made her invaluable to Voyager, but it also placed her in many dangerous away mission situations. Janeway knew in her heart that if she loved Seven and lost her, Kathryn the woman would be lost as well. Only the Starfleet Captain would remain.

 

But if she could overcome her fear…if she could only let go of Starfleet and allow herself to love the beautiful woman next to her! Thoughts of living with Seven; loving her, made Janeway’s knees weak and her head swim. Quiet dinners together, evenings of peace and tranquility like the one they had shared, nights of passion and untroubled sleep. The unbelievable feeling of waking in Seven’s arms. She would never deny that kind of joy to another officer of Voyager; but she was the captain, with the ultimate responsibility for crew and ship. Could she allow herself the same freedom without compromising that responsibility? Did she trust herself enough? She had no answers to those questions.

 

And what of Seven? How did she feel? Was B’Elanna right? Would she break the heart of the woman she loved for the well-being of the ship? It had been such a struggle to meld Maquis and Starfleet into a cohesive crew. How would they react to their Captain loving another officer? Granted, the reactions so far had been positive, but they were colored by the diplomatic situation with the Ma’altareans. How much of it was real? Would a relationship with Seven cause dissension in the crew? Could they still respect a Captain who had a lover among them? Janeway mentally shook her head. No, Seven would not be just her lover. If she could allow herself to love, it would not be casual. They would marry, she could not settle for less; she would not allow Seven to do so either. For them, it would be all or nothing; for the rest of their lives. I wonder how Mom would react to an ex-Borg daughter-in-law? Phoebe will love Seven from the moment she sets eyes on her. And will no doubt tease me until the end of my days that I had to go 80,000 light years from home to find the love of my life.

 

She smiled at the thought.

 

“Is something amusing, Kathryn?”

 

“Hmmm? Amusing? Oh…no. I was just thinking about my younger sister Phoebe.”

 

“Fondly, it would appear.”

 

“Yes. Of course, that will change after I’m around her for about ten minutes. She drives me to distraction. But right now, yes, I miss her. And my mother.”

 

“Why were you thinking about your family, Kathryn?”

 

Janeway flushed and decided that Seven deserved the truth.

 

“I was wondering how they would react to an ex-Borg daughter- and sister-in-law.”

 

“I see. And how would they react?”

 

“They would love you the moment they laid eyes on you. And Phoebe would tease me unmercifully about how I had to go all the way to the Delta quadrant to find someone to marry me.”

 

Seven quirked the corned of her mouth. “And how likely is that?”

 

“That Phoebe will tease me? Totally.”

 

“I meant how likely is it that they will have an ex-Borg as their in-law?”

 

Janeway’s expression clouded slightly. She reached out and took Seven’s hand in hers.

 

“I don’t know, Seven. There are so many things to take into consideration. I care about you very much. I think that’s obvious now. I fought against these feelings for so long; I’m not sure how to exist not fighting them. And then there’s the matter of Starfleet. I’m just not sure that we could continue to…see each other…after we return to Voyager.”

 

“Unacceptable. These past two days are the first time I have seen you truly at ease and happy since I came aboard Voyager. I will not willingly see you return to your previous state.”

 

“Thank you. I have loved being with you. I never want to lose your friendship. I just don’t know how it can be anything else once we get back on Voyager.”

 

“I repeat, unacceptable. I will not go back to hiding my feelings for you. I will not go back to seeing the unhappiness in your eyes each day. We will adapt. The crew will adapt. Starfleet will adapt.”

 

“I wish I was as sure as you are. But I don’t want to talk about this any longer. We have the rest of today and tomorrow. I want to share them with you. I want to walk and talk and hold your hand and laugh with you. I want to be just Kathryn. I will have to be Captain Janeway again soon enough. C’mon, let’s walk some more. There’s supposed to be an art museum we didn’t see this morning around the corner. Let’s go see it.”

 

“This conversation is not over, Kathryn.” Seven rose from her chair and extended her hand to Janeway.

 

“I know.”

 

 

They spent the remainder of the afternoon strolling around the museum and returning to the marketplace. Seven found a small figurine she purchased for B’Elanna. Janeway commented that it was the ugliest thing she had ever seen and would be very appropriate for the feisty Chief Engineer. They beamed back to Voyager early in the evening, agreeing to change clothes and meet in the mess hall for dinner.

 

Seven hailed B’Elanna on her way back to Cargo Bay two and asked her to meet her in her quarters. She had not been there long when the door chime sounded.

 

“Damn Seven, you do look hot in that uniform!” said B’Elanna when Seven answered the door.

 

“Thank you, B’Elanna. Would you mind helping me out of it?”

 

“Seven, anybody on this ship would be delighted to help you out of it.”

 

“I believe you are mistaken. I believe there is one person on this ship who would not be so delighted.”

 

“Oh-oh. Trouble in paradise?”

 

“If by that you mean trouble with the captain, then yes. She is expressing concerns about continuing our relationship once we return to space.”

 

“She’s just nervous, Seven.”

 

“No, B’Elanna. She is not nervous. She is Starfleet. And will not overlook her precious command principles in favor of her happiness. I cannot fight Starfleet.”

 

“You’re Borg. Of course you can fight Starfleet. I suppose she threw up the old prohibition on officers fraternizing.”

 

“Something like that.”

 

“Well don’t get all worked up about it. We were going to figure out what to do before you went down there and saved her ass, we’ll just do the same now. It’s easier in a way; she already knows you love her.”

 

“I have tried to show her that.”

 

“But you haven’t told her?”

 

“The time never seemed…right.”

 

“Don’t worry. Between the two of us we’ll figure something out.”

 

Seven smiled faintly. “Kathryn did say that the two of us were dangerous when we put our heads together.”

 

“Well she was right. So don’t worry. This is not over. Not by a long shot.”

 

B’Elanna helped her dress in comfortable jeans and a shirt. When she was changed, Seven presented her with the figurine she had purchased earlier. B’Elanna roared with laughter when she looked at it and thanked Seven profusely, claiming she had just the place for it in her quarters. They parted and agreed to meet again after dinner.

 

Janeway was waiting in the mess hall when Seven arrived. Together, they went through the buffet of Ma’altarean delicacies. Seven complained about having only one good arm. Janeway laughed and handled their trays. As they ate their meal, B’Elanna came up and asked to join them. When she was seated, she told Seven the EMH wanted to see her after she’d eaten to check her shoulder. They chatted for a while discussing options for the rest of the evening. The festival that had begun the night before was continuing until the next night, with fireworks each evening. To Seven’s surprise, Janeway invited B’Elanna, Tom and Harry to join them for the evening. She agreed with pleasure and they set a time to meet in the Transporter room after Seven had her shoulder attended to.

 

The EMH was pleased that her shoulder was no worse and suggested they schedule the reconstruction in two days. Seven readily agreed; her frustration at having only one usable arm apparent. When she left Sickbay for the Transporter room, the EMH accompanied her. Tuvok, Harry, B’Elanna, Tom and Kathryn were waiting for them. They beamed down to the festival together.

 

Kathryn and Seven seemed a couple in love as they strolled among the musicians, acting troupes, artisans, food stalls and merry-makers. Seven had wrapped her arm around Kathryn’s shoulders and Kathryn kept her arm tightly around Seven’s waist. They fed each tidbits from the food stalls and danced together if the music was slow. The others smiled as they watched them; even Harry seemed to understand that Janeway and Seven belonged together. It was not a welcome realization for the young man, but he had matured since reporting aboard Voyager. He vowed to support Seven and the captain, knowing that their happiness would reflect down to the crew as well. There was an old Starfleet saying “As goes the captain, so goes the Ship.” Harry knew that if Janeway was happy the crew of Voyager would benefit from it. And Seven certainly seemed to make the captain happy. He had always suspected deep in his heart that the beautiful young woman would never be interested in him; for the first time he acknowledged the fact to himself.

 

“They look good together,” he commented to the rest of the group as they sat enjoying some local ale.

 

“Yes they do,” agreed Tom.

 

“So how do we make the captain realize that?” asked the EMH. The others looked at him in astonishment.

 

“What do you mean?” asked B’Elanna cautiously.

 

“I mean it is obvious to everyone else that they care deeply for each other. Captain Janeway is the consummate Starfleet officer however; she won’t allow the relationship to continue because it’s against Starfleet command principles. Frankly, I think it’s been used as an excuse to avoid relationships by officers who really don’t want commitments. I don’t think the captain falls into that category, but I think she has some other issues that will keep her from accepting her own happiness.”

 

“Tuvok, you know the captain best. Do you think that’s true?” asked B’Elanna.

 

“I have known the captain twenty years. I believe she will always put Voyager first in her life. That may be an obstacle to her finding happiness.”

 

“OK, so what do we do about it?” asked B’Elanna. “How do we help the captain realize that she can be happy with Seven and still be the best commanding officer in Starfleet?”

 

“We should do nothing until it is warranted. If it appears others are meddling in her affairs, the captain will withdraw,” said Tuvok.

 

“OK then; we watch and wait,” said B’Elanna.

 

 

Janeway, Chakotay and Tuvok beamed down to the High Council chambers the next morning for the official signing of the treaty alliance between the United Federation of Planets and the Ma’altarean Protectorate. The signing ceremony was broadcast all across the planet. When the documents were signed and the signatories shook hands, the chambers broke into loud applause. Premier Tor’vaq and Captain Janeway each made some remarks and then adjourned to a reception in the Premier’s residence. Chakotay beamed back to Voyager to make ready to break orbit and return to their course to the Alpha quadrant.

 

Premier Tor’vaq and his wife spent the last hour of the reception talking with Janeway. They spoke of the joy of their partnership and expressed hopes that Janeway and Seven would have the same. She accepted their good wishes with the sad knowledge that she would soon have to end her relationship with Seven. Her heart would never recover from the pain she knew this would cause the woman she loved, but her command had to come first. That lesson she had learned early in life. Her father had been gone so often; she had felt his absence keenly. The bulk of her childhood had been spent trying desperately to win his notice and approval. Duty always came first.

 

Finally, it was time. Farewells were said, leaves taken. Janeway and Tuvok beamed up to Voyager. Janeway hurried to her quarters and changed out of her dress whites into a regular uniform. As she brushed her hair, she caught sight of the sparkling ring on her finger. Just a little while longer; please let me hang onto this happiness for a little while longer.

 

She entered the bridge and took her command chair from Chakotay.

 

“Report.”

 

“All stations manned and secure, Captain. Impulse and warp engines online and available at your command. Course is laid in and helm is standing by. Mylapaq is at station-keeping 5,000 meters off our starboard beam. We are ready to break orbit.”

 

“Notify the Mylapaq that we’re ready to go. When they’ve confirmed they’re ready let me know.”

 

She busied herself with the workstation at her side. A few moments later Harry interrupted her.

 

“Mylapaq reports all systems online and standing by.”

 

“Very well; helm, take us out. One quarter impulse. Engage!”

 

Slowly the starship eased out of the orbit it had maintained for the past weeks and pointed its nose toward deep space. Once clear of the planet, they jumped to warp speed; Voyager and Mylapaq once more entered the realm for which they were created.

 

“Status report?”

 

“All systems functioning normally, Captain. Mylapaq maintains parallel course 100 kilometers off our starboard beam.”

 

“Very well. Chakotay, you have the bridge. I’ll be in my ready room.”

 

Janeway’s first order of business was fresh coffee. Once a steaming mug was in hand, she sat at her desk and began to review departmental reports from the past two weeks. Voyager was in fine shape; fully stocked and fueled, they would need no additional support for months if all went well. It was a good feeling to have in a hostile quadrant.

 

She looked up at the sound of her door chime.

 

“Come.”

 

Chakotay entered and sat in one of the chairs by the desk.

 

“Can I get you something?” she asked.

 

“Tea would be good.”

 

She got him a mug from the replicator and sat back down.

 

“So, finally back to normal, eh?” he asked.

 

“Yes, it’s good to feel the warp engines again. To know we’re back on our way home.”

 

“It’s been an interesting few weeks. But crew morale is better than it’s been in months and that’s worth it for all of us. How are you doing?”

 

“I’m absolutely delighted to be back in space and headed home. I’m glad we’ve got a diplomatic alliance with the Protectorate; it may come in handy for the next few sectors. And all in all, we’ve done what Starfleet would expect of us: established contact and alliance with a new civilization. It’s been a good couple of weeks.”

 

Her first officer chuckled, “Speaking of alliances, what are your plans for yours?”

 

“With Seven?” He nodded.

 

“I’m not sure. I care for her and I don’t want to hurt her, but I don’t see how I can pursue any kind of relationship with her.”

 

He looked surprised, “You’d consider pursuing one?”

 

She looked at him levelly. “I love her, Chakotay. If I thought there was any way I could be with her I would.”

 

He thought for a moment. “I guess I didn’t realize how you felt about her. I just assumed that it was a role you played to secure the treaty. And, if I’m being completely honest, I’d always thought that you and I…”

 

“No, Chakotay. It never would have happened. Well, maybe once, a long time ago. But not now. She is everything to me. I love her with all my heart. I just hope I have the strength to do the right thing.”

 

“And that would be?”

 

“I have to break it off. For the good of the ship. And God knows Starfleet would not approve.”

 

“Kathryn, I suspect that Starfleet won’t approve of a lot of what we’ve had to do to survive out here. As for the good of the ship, I don’t see any problem there. The crew was – IS – happy for you. They joined in the celebration of your betrothal wholeheartedly. There will always be a few who piss and moan. They have other issues though. By and large, the crew supports you and Seven. Are you sure that’s what’s the problem is?”

 

“Explain,” she said sharply.

 

“I just don’t see the problems that you do. You and I are going to have to answer to Starfleet for many things. You loving another officer is a minor point. The crew won’t be disturbed if you stay with her. So, given that…why would you break it off?”

 

She sat back in her chair and rubbed her temple.

 

“She deserves more than I can give her.”

 

“Why would you say that?”

 

“She’s young and she deserves someone who will put her first in their life. I can never do that. My command will always be my first priority.”

 

“Seven was virtually raised on a space ship. Her parents loaded her on the Raven when she was a toddler. The Borg raised her from the age of six. Why would you think she would not understand a starship commander having a priority for their command? Of all people on this ship, I would think Seven would understand that best.”

 

“I’m too old for her. She deserves better,” she repeated stubbornly.

 

“It sounds to me like your command is the least of your problems with Seven. Maybe you should take a good hard look at yourself before you go breaking her heart. Because it’s very apparent that you are what she wants.”

 

“She doesn’t know what she wants. She’s too young.”

 

“Too young? I don’t think so. She’s seen more and experienced more than most of the crew of this ship. Seven seems quite capable of determining what she wants. Sounds to me like you’re afraid, Kathryn.”

 

She looked up sharply. “What did you say?”

 

“I said it sounds to me like you’re afraid. That you don’t trust Seven’s feelings for you.”

 

“How can I trust her feelings? She’s still too new to having feelings to be able to trust them herself. How can I trust them?”

 

“Then that’s the issue you have to work out, Kathryn. Not some ridiculous Starfleet tradition of not getting involved with your crew. And as for Seven trusting her feelings…she trusted them enough to risk her life for you. If I were you, I think I’d remember that.”

 

With that he stood and took his leave. Janeway spent the remainder of the shift pacing in her ready room.

 

 

Seven of Nine spent the day in Astrometrics plotting a course through the next five sectors. With additional data obtained from the Protectorate, she developed a course which would shave several months off their journey. As the afternoon progressed she found herself thinking of the captain and wondering what she was doing. She knew the schedule for the day and roughly when Janeway would return to Voyager. As that time came her thoughts came to the discussion she and Janeway had begun. She knew that Kathryn had adored her father and all he stood for. Admiral Edward Janeway had been a dedicated Starfleet officer. Kathryn had attended Starfleet Academy to follow in his footsteps. When he had been killed in the crash of an experimental craft, his friends in Starfleet had taken the young officer under their wings and mentored her. Seven suspected that much of Kathryn’s attitude about duty came from her father and wondered if there was any way she could counteract it.

 

She thought back on the past week. She knew that Kathryn cared for her – loved her. The emotions they had shared had been honest. Kathryn had said that there was no one in the universe she would be prouder to marry than Seven. Why would she give that up now that they were back in space and once again headed for Earth? Seven understood that Kathryn would always be duty-bound to Voyager and her crew. But why was there no room for anything else in the captain’s life? Seven had watched Kathryn since she came aboard Voyager; there had been unguarded moments when the command mask had slipped and aching loneliness had dulled Kathryn’s eyes. She had seen the happiness and joy in those same eyes during the past week. There was no doubt in her mind that the freedom to love had been the cause of that joy. Now what she had to do was convince the captain that it was all right to be that free all the time.

 

“Janeway to Seven of Nine”

 

“Seven here, Captain.”

 

“Seven, are you free to join me for dinner this evening?”

 

“Yes, Captain.”

 

“Say, 1900 hours? In my quarters?”

 

“Very well. 1900 hours.”

 

“Thank you, Seven. I’ll see you then. Janeway out.”

 

She had until 1900 hours to marshal logical arguments to protect the interlude of happiness she and Janeway had enjoyed for the past week. Seven wanted nothing less than to extend that interlude for the rest of their lives.

 

Janeway had gone to her quarters at the end of her shift and resumed her pacing there. She knew what she should do. But she just couldn’t bring herself to do it. Seven was facing complex and delicate surgery the next morning; she didn’t have the heart to send her to it upset and most probably angry. They would have a quiet dinner and just be together for one last evening. Once Seven had recovered and had the use of her shoulder and arm again they could do what needed to be done.

 

Oh, be honest with yourself for once, the little voice in her head demanded. You don’t WANT it to end. And neither does Seven. Would it be so terrible if you were actually happy for once in your life? If you had someone that brought passion and love and joy into your life? Somebody that didn’t roll over and play dead when you get in one of your moods? Somebody that stood up to you; that challenged you?

 

Seven was certainly all those things. Life with her wasn’t dull now. What would it be like if they were living together? Kathryn felt a shiver of pleasure run through her at the thought. She thought back to what Chakotay had said earlier. Was it fear that kept her from embracing what she felt to be the great love of her life? Had she been so damaged by previous events in her life that she was unable to let herself risk loving completely? Was she hiding behind Starfleet and her command priorities out of fear?

 

Seven stopped in Sickbay on her way to the captain’s quarters.

 

“What can I do for you Seven? Questions about tomorrow’s surgery?” asked the EMH.

 

“No, doctor. I require one of the hyposprays for pain that you offered earlier.”

 

“Is your shoulder worse today? Have you injured it again?”

 

“No, doctor. But, for tonight, I do not wish it to cause me pain. I assume after the surgery tomorrow that will not be a concern.”

 

“Well, there will be some post-operative pain. But yes, after a day or two you should be quite comfortable. Why tonight? You’ve never asked for pain relief before.”

 

“I am having dinner with the captain in a few minutes. I do not wish any distractions tonight.”

 

“I see. Very well. This should take care of things for the evening. You need to report here at 0800 hours tomorrow. Nothing to eat in the morning, please.”

 

“Thank you, Doctor. I will be prompt in the morning.”

 

“You always are, Seven. I would imagine you’re looking forward to having two working arms again.”

 

“I am. It has been most inefficient with only one.”

 

“The surgery will take several hours. Once we bring you out of the anesthetic, you’ll have to regenerate for at least twelve hours to give your nanoprobes time to solidify and repair the new joint fully. We’ll take a look at it after that and decide how much rehab you’ll need.”

 

“I understand, Doctor.”

 

“Very well then. Enjoy your dinner with the captain. I’ll see you bright and early in the morning.”

 

“Goodnight, Doctor.”

 

Seven rang the door chime of Janeway’s quarters at 1900 hours precisely. Kathryn answered it promptly and invited her in.

 

“Good evening, Seven. How’s your shoulder feeling tonight?”

 

“I asked the Doctor for a hypospray for pain. It is feeling…numb.”

 

Janeway laughed and waved her to the couch. “Do you want me to get you some pillows to brace it?”

 

“No, Kathryn, I will be fine without them.”

 

“Would you like something to drink?”

 

“Thank you, I would. May I have some apple juice?”

 

“One apple juice coming right up. For dinner, I thought we might have a chicken and rice casserole my mother used to make. I think you’ll like it.”

 

“That sounds very good. You have said that your mother was an accomplished cook; I’m sure her casserole will be quite good.”

 

“Yes, but don’t forget, it’s ME who’s doing the replicating. However, I did have a long talk with the replicator before I programmed dinner, so hopefully it will cooperate.”

 

“You had a conversation with your replicator? Did it agree to work efficiently for you? If not, I can always assimilate it.”

 

Kathryn laughed at the thought of a Borg replicator softly glowing green in her quarters. “I’ll keep that in mind. Just so you don’t assimilate ME if it turns out badly.”

 

Seven grinned in her turn. “I promise. No assimilation if dinner is inedible.”

 

Kathryn joined her on the sofa, drinks in hand. When she settled, Seven reached out and pulled her close, arm draped over her shoulders.

 

“I much prefer you sitting in close proximity to me, Kathryn.”

 

Kathryn sighed contentedly and let her head fall back on Seven’s shoulder.

 

“I prefer it too, love. I feel like the problems we have are a million miles away when I’m close to you. Like the ship and crew are somewhere off away from us; it’s just the two of us. I like that feeling very much.”

 

Seven hesitated. “Kathryn, we have a conversation to finish…”

 

“Not tonight. We’ll have that conversation eventually, but we will NOT have it tonight. Tonight is for us…only us.”

 

Seven smiled softly, leaned over and gently kissed her.

 

“Only us. I concur.”

 

The kisses deepened and Kathryn found herself grateful that Seven had taken the hypospray. It was wonderful to be able to lean against the larger woman; to press against her and not worry about causing her pain.

 

Seven had discovered a spot right below Kathryn’s ear that was delightfully sensitive. Every time she kissed it, Kathryn would gasp in pleasure and press closer to her. She was currently exploring it thoroughly with lips and tongue and Kathryn had practically crawled into her lap in response. Kathryn’s hands were in her hair, arms around her neck as she nuzzled the smaller woman.

 

“Oh God, Seven…” and Kathryn’s stomach growled loudly.

 

She flushed in embarrassment as Seven pulled back and grinned at her.

 

“It would seem that your digestive system is registering a complaint…”

 

“Believe me, darling, every other molecule of me is loving this…but it has been a while since lunch…”

 

“Then we should eat dinner. The Doctor told me that I should not eat anything in the morning; it will be necessary for me to eat well tonight.”

 

Reluctantly, they broke apart and rose. Kathryn walked to replicator praying to any deities in the neighborhood that dinner would be acceptable. She replicated a bottle of wine and carried it and the casserole to the table. Seven was already seated.

 

As she removed the stasis lid, a wonderful aroma rose from the steaming dish.

 

“I believe the negotiations with your replicator were successful, Kathryn. This smells delicious.”

 

Giving thanks to the culinary gods, Kathryn served them and they settled in to eat. The casserole was good and the women enjoyed their meal, talking quietly as they ate. When they finished, Kathryn leaned back in her chair.

 

“Do you have any preference for dessert?”

 

“No…why don’t you surprise me?” Seven was feeling adventurous.

 

Kathryn grinned at her. “OK, I can’t give you my favorite dessert, chocolate caramel brownies. I’ve never been able to duplicate Mother’s recipe at all. But I know something that will be a decent substitute.” She gathered up their dishes and loaded them in the recycler, then turned to the replicator. Moments later, she returned to the table with two enormous hot fudge sundaes.

 

“I have never ingested this dessert. What is it?”

 

“These are hot fudge sundaes. It’s vanilla ice cream with a hot chocolate fudge sauce.”

 

Seven dipped her spoon into the dish and took a small bite. The look of ecstasy on her face made Kathryn laugh out loud.

 

“I take it you like it…” Seven could not reply because her second bite had been a huge spoonful.

 

“Mmmph!”

 

“Easy…the ice cream is cold. Try not to eat the whole thing in three bites.”

 

Seven swallowed and looked at Kathryn in delight.

 

“This is…is…delicious!”

 

“I thought you’d like it. Most people do.”

 

The sundaes quickly vanished and they cleared the table. Seven replicated coffee and tea for them and they returned to the couch.

 

“What time is your surgery in the morning?”

 

“I need to report to Sickbay at 0800 hours.”

 

“I’d like to go with you. Is that all right?”

 

Seven smiled shyly. “I would very much like for you to be with me. But the surgery will take quite a while.”

 

“I don’t mind. I’d just be pacing and worrying if I was anywhere else. At least if I’m in Sickbay I’ll be close to you.”

 

“Thank you, Kathryn. I would like that.”

 

Kathryn tapped her comm badge. “Janeway to Chakotay.”

 

“Chakotay here.”

 

“Commander, log me off duty for tomorrow morning. Seven’s having her surgery and I’ll be in Sickbay.”

 

“Acknowledged, Captain. Tell her we’re all thinking of her.”

 

“I will, Chakotay. Janeway out.”

 

“There, that’s settled. Now, where were we when my stomach so rudely interrupted us?”

 

Seven grinned and drew her onto her lap.

 

“I believe I was exploring an area of great interest…” and she gently ran her tongue around the rim of Kathryn’s ear. The smaller woman shuddered at the touch.

 

“I am eternally grateful for your eidetic memory, darling…” and the kisses resumed.

 

Some time later they were interrupted by the chirp of Seven’s comm badge.

 

“Torres to Seven of Nine.”

 

Seven’s hand and arm were fully occupied in Kathryn’s hair and so the captain tapped her comm badge for the reply.

 

“Seven here.”

 

“Do you want some help getting ready for bed tonight?”

 

Kathryn looked at Seven and shook her head.

 

“I will not require assistance this evening, B’Elanna.”

 

“OK then, what time in the morning?” Kathryn again shook her head.

 

“I…will not require assistance in the morning either.”

 

There was a slight pause. “All right. I’ll see you in Sickbay at 0800 hours. Torres out.”

 

Kathryn looked at Seven with a wry grin.

 

“So, B’Elanna has been helping you dress. Should I be jealous?”

 

“B’Elanna is my best friend. She has been most helpful while I have been incapacitated.”

 

“I know she has. I’m just teasing you. But her hail did remind me. You should get a good night’s sleep before your surgery. Do you need to regenerate tonight?”

 

“No, the Doctor tells me I’ll need a long regeneration period after the surgery. Tonight I need only sleep.”

 

“Then…would you sleep here? With me? I would like to hold you tonight…”

 

“There is nowhere I would rather sleep than with you.”

 

“Then come to bed. We could both use a good night’s sleep.”

 

Kathryn replicated Seven some pajamas and then went into the bathroom to prepare for bed herself. When she emerged, Seven had changed and was sitting on the edge of the bed.

 

“Did you have problems getting changed?”

 

“No. While it was awkward with only one arm not having to contend with pain in the injured arm facilitated the process.”

 

“I’m glad.”

 

She pulled back the covers and helped Seven get settled comfortably. She walked around the bed and climbed in the other side. As she did, Seven grinned and raised her left arm in the air.

 

“I would prefer not to be awakened in the middle of the night again, Kathryn. If you fall asleep in my arms now, neither of us need be disturbed later.”

 

“That is wonderfully efficient thinking, darling.”

 

Kathryn snuggled close against her and thrilled at the feel of Seven’s arm around her. Their good-night kiss was sweet and lasted a satisfyingly long time.

 

“Computer, lights out.”

 

 

“The time is 0700 hours.”

 

They awoke in each other’s arms. Seven decided that she much preferred good-morning kisses to good-night kisses, and it was a while before they rose. Kathryn helped her dress, then took her morning shower while Seven got her coffee and a bagel for breakfast.

 

“I feel bad eating in front of you.”

 

“Do not. I will be eating again by tonight and have two working hands to do it with. You need to eat breakfast. You do not take enough care of yourself.”

 

“Are you going to nag me like this all the time?” Kathryn’s smile belied her words.

 

“Your well-being is very important to me. Yes, I am going to nag you all the time.” Seven hesitated. “Kathryn, I want…if anything goes wrong…”

 

Kathryn reached across the table and covered Seven’s hand with hers.

 

“Don’t even think that. Nothing is going to go wrong. The surgery is going to be completely successful and you’re going to be fine afterwards.”

 

“Very well. But I need…to tell you…” Seven looked deep into gray-blue eyes. “I love you, Kathryn.”

 

Kathryn looked back into those impossibly blues just as intently. “And I love you, Seven. I have never been happier in my life than I have been these last two weeks.”

 

Seven held their gaze and nodded. “Then let’s get to Sickbay. I want two arms to hold you with tomorrow.”

 

The walk to Sickbay was quiet, but Kathryn took hold of Seven’s hand as they left her quarters and did not release it until they walked in the Sickbay doors. No words were necessary between them.

 

The Doctor, Tom Paris and B’Elanna were there setting up the operating table. B’Elanna took Seven behind a screen and helped her into the surgical gown. When she was settled on the table, she beckoned Kathryn to her side. She held Kathryn’s hand and whispered “I love you.”

 

“I love you too. I’ll be right here all day. And I’ll be right here when you wake up.” Kathryn leaned down and kissed her gently.

 

The Doctor cleared he throat quietly. “Captain, if you’d like to wait in my office you’ll be more comfortable.”

 

“I’ll stay in this room if it’s OK. I can always go into your office if I need to do some work later.”

 

“As you wish. Seven, any last-minute questions? No? Well then, relax and let this anesthetic work. This will be over before you know it.” And he injected her with a hypospray.

 

The surgery took five hours. The shoulder joint and brachial plexus are extremely complex anatomical structures and great care had to be taken to insure everything worked properly. The brachial clamps B’Elanna had replicated required precise micro-surgical placement so that Seven’s nanoprobes could complete the attachments. The humeral head had to be regenerated in such a way that the duranium reinforcements would re-attach, and the nerves of the brachial plexus required minute regeneration. But, at the end of that time, the Doctor declared the surgery a complete success as he healed damaged muscle with a deep-tissue regenerator and closed the wound with the dermal regenerator. He motioned a nervous Janeway to the table.

 

“I’m going to wake her now. I imagine she would prefer to see you first.”

 

The hypospray took effect quickly and Seven opened her eyes.

 

“Kathryn?”

 

“I’m right here, love. The Doctor says you’ll be just fine.”

 

Tom and the Doctor helped her sit up.

 

“Don’t try to move the arm until after you’ve regenerated. Remember, your nanoprobes will complete the attachments. Now let’s get you into your alcove and get you fully healed.”

 

Janeway and the Doctor walked with her into her quarters in Cargo Bay two. She stepped onto the dais and the Doctor programmed an eighteen-hour regeneration cycle. Before he activated the cycle, Kathryn stepped up in front of her and kissed her gently.

 

“I’ll be right here when you wake up, I promise.”

 

As the cycle activated, Seven’s eyes snapped shut. Janeway stepped down and turned to the Doctor.

 

“Will we need to monitor her?”

 

“There really shouldn’t be any need, but I’ll check on her a couple of times before morning just to make sure. I’m going to stay here for an hour or so to make sure the cycle is normal and then go back to Sickbay.”

 

“Very well, Doctor. I’m heading to my ready room. Let me know how it’s going.”

 

When Janeway stepped off the turbolift onto the bridge, the entire bridge crew turned to her.

 

“How did the surgery go, Captain?” asked Harry.

 

“Everything’s fine. She’s going to be just fine.” The news was greeted with relief by all. Chakotay rose from the command chair and followed her into her ready room.

 

“Coffee, Chakotay?”

 

“Please, Kathryn. I imagine you’re relieved.”

 

She set the steaming mug in front of him and settled into her chair with her own.

 

“You have no idea. I think I wore a groove in the Sickbay deck plating pacing all morning.”

 

Her first officer chuckled.

 

“Well, it’s over now. Life will return to normal once she finishes regenerating.”

 

“I wonder…”

 

“Wonder what?”

 

“If life will return to normal. If I want it to return to normal.”

 

“Still wrestling with demons? I thought we’d talked about that.”

 

“It’s not that simple. I told you that.”

 

“Actually, Kathryn, it is simple. You can stop using Starfleet as some sort of armor and be happy or not. The choice is yours.”

 

“She told me this morning that she loves me.”

 

“Did that come as a surprise?”

 

“No, it didn’t. What surprised me is that I told her that I loved her too.”

 

“Why did that surprise you?”

 

“Because I didn’t intend to tell her. I thought if it remained unspoken it would be easier to…end things…when the time was right.”

 

“What changed your mind?”

 

“I looked into her eyes and I couldn’t lie to her.”

 

“That alone ought to tell you everything you need to know. Kathryn, your dedication to Starfleet isn’t going to decrease if you fall in love. On the contrary, I think a happy commander is a better one.”

 

“How do you figure that?”

 

“A captain in love has something to lose. That means that their decisions will be more prudent; maybe even more cautious. A little prudence and caution can only benefit the ship and crew. Especially in a quadrant like this one.”

 

“Are you saying that I’ve been reckless?”

 

“Not more than any other captain. But loving Seven won’t affect your ability to make the right decisions for this ship and crew. It will make you more aware of their safety. And that’s a good thing.”

 

“I wish I could be as certain as you seem to be. Get out of here…I have reports to review before I go back to Cargo Bay two.”

 

“How long does she have to regenerate?”

 

“Until tomorrow morning. I thought I’d spend the night down there.”

 

“All right then. I’ll see you on the bridge some time tomorrow morning. I’d like to hail Mylapaq…Captain Ta’arqual has been anxious to hear news of how the surgery went. He’s been a good friend to us through all of this.”

 

“Yes he has. By all means, notify him that all went well. And Chakotay? Thank you.”

 

“My pleasure, Captain. I’ll see you in the morning.” With that, he rose and left the office.

 

Janeway sighed and turned to the ever-present reports. At 1800 hours she routed more work to the workstation in Seven’s quarters and left her ready room for Cargo Bay two. She checked on Seven briefly, then moved to the workstation. She hadn’t been there for long when the door chime sounded.

 

B’Elanna stood outside.

 

“Come in, Lieutenant.”

 

“I don’t mean to intrude, Captain. But I wanted to check on Seven; I thought you might be here and wondered if you’d like some company for dinner?”

 

“Sure, do you want to eat here or in the mess hall?”

 

“I already checked on Neelix’s offering in the mess hall. Believe me, we’ll be better off eating here.”

 

Janeway laughed and headed toward the replicator. “What sounds good?”

 

“Um, Captain? With all due respect, why don’t you let ME get dinner.”

 

Janeway glared at her good-naturedly. “Are you implying that my replicator skills leave something to be desired?”

 

“Well, there was that liquefied pot roast…”

 

“I’ll have you know I made a perfectly respectable casserole last night. It did take me a fifteen-minute negotiation with the replicator to do it, but it worked.”

 

Torres laughed. “Then why don’t I just do something simple. How about Seven’s favorites? Grilled cheese and tomato soup?”

 

“That sounds fine.”

 

“Some wine with dinner?”

 

“How about a couple of cold beers instead?”

 

“Sounds good to me.”

 

With dinner on the table, they settled in to eat.

 

“So is everything OK with Seven?”

 

“Yes, the Doctor checked on her twice this afternoon and everything is just fine.”

 

“That’s good news. She’ll be so happy to have both her arms working again.”

 

“I can’t imagine how difficult that’s been for her. And I want to thank you for all the help I know you’ve been to her.”

 

“It was no problem. She’s my friend. That’s what friends do for each other.”

 

“It was a difficult time for her. I’m glad you were there.”

 

“Is it going to continue to be a difficult time for her?”

 

“Meaning what?”

 

“Are you going to break her heart?”

 

Janeway sighed. “B’Elanna, it’s not that simple. There are a lot of factors that have to be considered. Starfleet, not the least of them.”

 

“But do you love her, Captain?”

 

“Love her? Yes, B’Elanna, I love her. I love her with all my heart. But that doesn’t change the nature of things.”

 

“All I need to know is if you love her. Anything else beyond that is immaterial.”

 

“Why do you say that? There are important concerns…”

“Captain, the only important thing is that you love Seven. Because I know Seven…she loves you. And if you love her, then nothing – and I mean NOTHING – will stop her. So, since you love her, I know everything will work out just fine. Maybe not right away, but it will work out fine. I’m relieved.”

 

“Well, I’m glad you’re relieved, Lieutenant. But as I said before, that doesn’t change things.”

 

“If you say so, Captain.”

 

After B’Elanna left, Kathryn checked on Seven again and returned to the workstation and her reports. The Doctor arrived around 2200 hours to check on Seven and then left for the night. Kathryn showered and went to bed shortly after. She was awakened at 0700 hours by the computer and dressed quickly. She replicated coffee and waited for the EMH to arrive. He showed up promptly at 0745 hours and they stood in front of the alcove waiting for the end of the cycle.

 

“Regeneration Cycle Complete.”

 

Seven opened her eyes and immediately saw Kathryn and the EMH waiting at the foot of the dais. She stepped down and flexed her stiff but functional right shoulder. Tentatively, she rolled her shoulders and moved her right arm. The EMH moved next to her and began to ease her arm through a full range-of-motion examination. At the end, he proclaimed himself ‘delighted’ with the results. He instructed Seven to come to Sickbay at 1300 hours, wished the women good morning and left.

 

Seven looked at Kathryn and held out her arms. It was satisfying to pull Kathryn close with both arms and hold her. For a long moment they just held each other.

 

“I’m so glad you’re finally whole again. I have been so worried about you.”

 

“Kathryn, do you have any idea how good it feels to hold you properly?”

 

“I know how good it feels to be held. Is that good enough?”

 

“It will suffice. Did you sleep well last night?”

 

“No. I woke up four times just to make sure you were still here and all right. I couldn’t help myself.”

 

“I do not tend to wander when regenerating. Sleep walking is difficult in a Borg alcove.”

 

Kathryn chuckled. “I suppose that’s true. But I was worried anyway.”

 

“I am fine now, Kathryn. I will have to work on regaining my strength in that arm, but that will come soon. I am fine.”

 

“I know. But I couldn’t help worrying. You do that when you love someone. Are you hungry? You didn’t eat all day yesterday.”

 

“Yes, I am hungry. Shall we go to the mess hall for breakfast?”

 

“Go shower first. I’ll have another cup of coffee and we’ll go then.”

 

While Seven showered, Janeway reviewed the overnight status reports. When Seven emerged from the bedroom fully dressed, they walked to the turbolift and took it to deck two. The mess hall was fairly empty with only a few Gamma shift crew grabbing a quick meal before retiring. Neelix was delighted to see Seven and Kathryn and bustled back to the kitchen to make them omelets. He returned to their table laden with a pot of coffee for Kathryn, one of tea for Seven, the omelets, a bowl of fruit and a plate of toast.

 

“There you go ladies. Enjoy your breakfast. Seven it’s wonderful to see you with everything working again!”

 

They lingered over breakfast enjoying the peace of the mess hall. When they’d finished, Kathryn reluctantly left for the bridge and duty after agreeing they meet at 1800 hours in her quarters for dinner. Seven went to Astrometrics to work until she needed to visit Sickbay.

 

At 1300 hours, Seven reported to Sickbay and the EMH began a complete assessment of her shoulder. Her range of motion was full, but there was some continuing pain which the EMH said would clear up in a day or so. He prescribed some weight training in the holo-gym and told Seven not to begin any rehab until the pain went away. Satisfied that she would begin rehab shortly, she returned to Astrometrics to complete her shift.

 

“Torres to Seven of Nine.”

 

“Seven here, Lieutenant.”

 

“So what did the Doctor have to say about your shoulder? Are you OK again?”

 

“I can begin strength training as soon as the pain is gone. Probably in two days.”

 

“But everything’s working like it should?”

 

“Yes, my shoulder is functioning within normal parameters.”

 

“That’s great! Do you want to meet Tom, Harry and me for dinner at Sandrine’s tonight?”

 

“I am having dinner with the captain tonight.”

 

“That’s good news too. Have fun. I’ll catch up with you in the morning then. Torres out.”

 

The end of her shift came quickly and Seven returned to her quarters to change into casual clothes. As she was leaving her quarters, she abruptly turned back to her replicator and requested one red rose. At 1800 hours promptly, she rang the chime of the captain’s quarters. Kathryn called, “Come,” and she entered the living room. Kathryn was busy at the replicator, muttering.

 

“Are you in negotiations again?”

 

“Diplomacy appears to be failing me tonight. I’m resorting to threats. If that doesn’t work, I’m thinking of a photon torpedo!”

 

Seven chuckled and came up behind the shorter woman. She wrapped her arms around her and presented her with the rose.

 

Kathryn leaned back into her, enjoying the warmth.

 

“I can’t get the replicator to work right. We may wind up in the mess hall yet.”

 

“What were you trying to make?”

 

“Linguini in white clam sauce. I managed to succeed with the salads, but the pasta keeps coming out like soup.”

 

“May I try?

 

“By all means...we’ll starve if I keep at it.”

 

Seven quickly programmed in the parameters for Lt. Nicoletti’s recipe and the replicator promptly delivered a large bowl of perfect pasta with clams.

 

“How do you do that?”

 

“When B’Elanna and I worked on the power enhancements for the replicators, I inserted an algorithm that would result in instant assimilation for any replicator that failed to meet my requests. I scared the system into complying with my programming.”

 

“Well, could you add my name to the list of assimilators? I need all the help I can get.”

 

They laughed as they set the table and sat to eat. Kathryn put the rose in a bud vase and set it in the center of the table.

 

“The Doctor tells me that your shoulder is fine and that you can start rehab in a couple of days. Does it hurt you now?”

 

“There is some mild discomfort if I attempt to stretch it too far, but no real pain. I am looking forward to working out again. The arm does feel weak.”

 

“Just don’t overdo it. I know you’ll be impatient to be ‘fully functional’ again…don’t injure yourself trying to heal yourself.”

 

“I will be careful, Kathryn. It may be a week or so before we can play Velocity again.”

 

“I can wait a week. I’m just glad that we’re going to be able to play again at all.”

 

“I did not intend to worry you, Kathryn. My intention was to get you safely back to Voyager. If I had been five minutes quicker, none of this would have happened.”

 

“I know. I’ve thought about that a lot. I don’t know that I would have willingly accompanied you back to the ship.”

 

“But at least I would have had the chance to inform you of what MIGHT happen if you remained in the trade talks. You and Tuvok would have been prepared. And Lt. Torres and I would have been there as additional security for you.”

 

“Seven, we’ve never really talked about this. How do you feel about everything that’s happened in the past couple of weeks?”

 

“I regret the loss of life. I would rather not have been injured. But other than that, I regret nothing of what has happened.”

 

“Where do you see us going from here?”

 

Seven sighed softly and set her fork down. The discussion she had been dreading was here.

 

“I wish to continue our personal relationship. I wish to marry you. I wish to make a home and a life with you here on Voyager.”

 

“And if that’s not possible?”

 

“Why would it not be possible? What is preventing us from being together and being happy?”

 

Now it was Janeway’s turn to sigh. “Seven, Starfleet guidelines strongly discourage senior officers from having personal relationships with members of their crew.”

 

“Then Starfleet is wrong! There is no reason why we should not be together!” The thought of losing Kathryn terrified Seven and made her respond forcefully.

 

“A Starfleet Captain must always put the crew and ship ahead of personal considerations.”

 

“You will not be less a Captain if we are together! To think so is illogical!”

 

“Starfleet Command would disagree with you. Seven, I don’t know how to explain this to you. But I will be held accountable for everything that has happened and will happen to this ship and crew when we return to Earth. There are many things I’ve done as Captain that will be called into question as it stands now. I can’t afford to make questionable decisions that I can avoid.”

 

“You call our love ‘questionable’?? You wish to avoid being with me??!!” Anger began to replace panic in Seven’s heart.

 

“No, no…it’s not that. But I will have to justify every decision I made or will make while on Voyager.”

 

“And you cannot justify our being together?”

 

“Let’s say that my debriefings back on Earth will be much less intense if we aren’t.”

 

“So you reject a relationship with me based on what MIGHT happen fifteen years in the future? Am I that irrelevant to you? Is what we feel for each other that insignificant??”

 

“What we feel is NOT insignificant. And you are NOT irrelevant to me. But I must ALWAYS be concerned with the impact of my actions on this ship and crew. And how Starfleet will react to them. That is what command is all about. That is the responsibility I assumed when I accepted command of Voyager.”

 

“And that means more to you than us? Than your happiness?”

 

“Until I get this ship and crew back to the Alpha quadrant…yes. It must always be my first priority; my first concern.”

 

“Unacceptable! You refuse to believe that you can be both captain and happy! That is illogical! And foolish!!”

 

Now Janeway stiffened in anger. “My command and responsibilities are NOT foolish! Why can’t you understand that?”

 

“This has nothing to do with your command…only your fears!”

 

“On the contrary, it is completely about my command. And what is best for Voyager!”

 

“And what do you deem best for Voyager?”

 

Janeway’s hands trembled as she removed the diamond ring from her left hand and slowly extended it to Seven. Seven’s eyes locked on it, then rose to meet Janeway’s.

 

“What are you telling me, Kathryn?”

 

“I will always cherish our friendship and the time we spend together. But there can never be more between us. For the good of Voyager. I hope you can understand that.” Janeway felt her heart begin to break at the harsh words. It took every ounce of her control to keep tears from her eyes.

 

“I will never accept that! I will never understand that! I told you once before that I would not go back to hiding my feelings for you. That is still true. How can you expect me to resume our former friendship after I have kissed you? After I have held you in my arms?”

 

“By knowing that I can’t allow that to happen again. Because I am the captain.” Kathryn felt her heart shatter as she said the words.

 

“Unacceptable! You are being unreasonable!”

 

“I am being a Starfleet officer. I don’t expect you to understand.”

 

Seven leapt to her feet. “That is your final word? You refuse to acknowledge your feelings for me?”

 

“I DO acknowledge them. But I will not allow them to interfere with my command of Voyager.” She laid the ring on the table between them. “I would be grateful if you would keep the ring I gave you. I’d like to think it will remind you of the time we have had together.”

 

“I need no ring to remind me! My heart reminds me every minute of the day!” Seven snatched up the ring she had made for Kathryn.

 

“I understand this isn’t easy for you. But I hope that in time you will realize that it’s for the best.” Janeway clasped her hands in her lap to still their violent trembling.

 

“I will NEVER accept that! I will never accept that your command keeps you from happiness. Your FEARS keep you from happiness!”

 

Janeway’s command mask slammed into place. “That is enough! This discussion is over. I’ve told you what my decision has to be.”

 

Seven straightened in fury. “Yes, Captain.” She spun on her heel and stormed to the door. As it whirred open she turned back to Janeway.

 

“Until this moment I have never thought you a coward. I will have to reassess that opinion.” She turned and left.

 

Janeway automatically cleared the table and recycled the remnants of their dinner. She walked slowly to the couch, her face wooden; jaw clenched. As she sat, the stiffness in her frame gave way. She collapsed, sobbing uncontrollably onto the cushions.

 

 

Seven of Nine strode furiously down the corridor to the holodecks. She activated one of Tuvok’s training programs and ordered the safeties off. She needed to lash out, to fight something, anything to ease the pain in her heart. Once inside, she moved into the Cargo Bay simulation and waited. Two Hirogen hunters soon materialized and the battle was on.

 

On the bridge, Tuvok’s Security console flashed an alert that one of his training simulations had been activated with the safety protocols disabled. He frowned, turned the conn over to Lieutenant Nicoletti and headed for the holodecks. Outside Holodeck one, he used his Security override to gain access and immediately froze the program. Seven of Nine was on the floor, unconscious and being beaten by three Hirogen. The bodies of five others lay on the holodeck floor around her.

 

“Tuvok to Sickbay. Doctor, we have a medical emergency in Holodeck one.”

 

The EMH materialized in a moment and gasped when he saw Seven.

 

“What, in the name of everything that’s holy, was she trying to do??” he demanded of Tuvok.

 

“I do not know, Doctor. This is how I found her, But I have my suspicions.” Tuvok’s keen eyes caught sight of the diamond ring that had been kicked aside during the melee. He picked it up and silently handed it to the EMH.

 

“Oh no! I was afraid something like this would happen. I’ve got to get her to Sickbay. Tuvok, do you think you should check…?”

 

“I am headed there now, Doctor. I can make no guarantees. I may not be successful, but I will try.”

 

With that, Tuvok left the holodeck headed for Deck three and the captain’s quarters. When he arrived outside Janeway’s door, he listened for a moment and then rang the door chime. When it was not answered, he queried the computer on Janeway’s location.

 

“Captain Janeway is in her quarters.”

 

He rang the chime again and waited. Again, he listened at the door. This time, he heard muffled sobbing within.

 

“Computer, security override. Authorization Tuvok Delta-3-Pi.”

 

“Access granted.”

 

The door to Janeway’s quarters opened and Tuvok saw her sobbing on the couch. Janeway looked at him as he stood in the doorway and shouted “GET OUT!!” as she jumped to her feet. She took two unsteady steps toward him and collapsed, unconscious on the floor. He moved quickly to her side and hailed the EMH.

 

“Tuvok to Sickbay. Medical emergency on Deck three, Captain’s quarters.”

 

“On my way, Commander.” The EMH materialized in a moment and rushed to Janeway. A hypospray revived her. She opened her eyes and immediately began struggling against the EMH.

 

“Get out of here!! Leave me alone! You have no right to be in here!” she sobbed. A quick tricorder reading revealed her precarious mental state and the EMH made a difficult decision. He pressed another hypospray against her neck, sedating her.

 

“Help me get her into bed,” he ordered Tuvok. The two men carried Janeway into her bedroom and laid her on her bed. The EMH pulled a blanket over her and conducted a complete tricorder scan.

 

“Her neuro-transmitter levels are off the charts. If those levels continue, she could suffer permanent damage. I’ll need to keep her sedated for a while. She should be in Sickbay, but I think that would only add to her stress levels right now. This cortical monitor will let me keep an eye on her condition remotely, but I don’t want her left alone. Will you stay with her for a while until I get Seven patched up? Ensign Paris is with her now, but some of her injuries will require my expertise to correct. I’ll relieve you here once she’s back on her feet.”

 

“Very well, Doctor. But I must inform Commander Chakotay of the situation.”

 

“I understand. I’ll be back as quickly as I can.” With that, the EMH transported himself back to Sickbay.

 

“Tuvok to Chakotay.”

 

“Chakotay here.”

 

“Commander, would you meet me in the captain’s quarters as quickly as possible?”

 

“On my way, Tuvok. Chakotay out.”

 

Moments later, the door chime sounded. Tuvok admitted Chakotay who looked around the room for Janeway.

 

“The Captain is sedated and in bed, Commander. There was apparently an incident earlier in the evening that had unfortunate consequences.”

 

“What incident was that?”

 

“It would seem the captain terminated her engagement to Seven of Nine. I found Seven in the holodeck unconscious after taking on eight Hirogen hunters without the safeties engaged. The Doctor is working on her now. I then came here and found the captain in …considerable … emotional distress. The Doctor sedated her. I am staying with her until the Doctor takes care of Seven and they he will stay with her for the rest of the night.”

 

“Don’t you have command duty on the bridge tonight?”

 

“Yes, Lt. Nicoletti currently has the conn.”

 

“Go back to your duty station. I’ll stay with the captain until the EMH returns.”

 

“Very well, Commander.” And Tuvok walked out of the cabin.

 

The EMH and Paris took care of Seven’s injuries in fairly short order. The EMH summoned B’Elanna to Sickbay to stay with Seven that night. His explanation was brief; neither was surprised at what had transpired. The Doctor silently handed B’Elanna the engagement ring Seven had given Janeway and she pocketed it with a grimace. When his treatment was complete, he injected Seven to bring her out of the anesthesia. She opened her eyes and saw B’Elanna standing there.

 

“B’Elanna, Kathryn…she…she said…”

 

“I know, Seven; I know. Just take it easy. The Doctor tells me that you took on half the Hirogen population in the holodeck. That wasn’t too smart. Now you’re going to need to regenerate for twelve hours. So don’t argue with me. Let’s go to your quarters and get you fixed up.”

 

The women were silent on the walk to Cargo Bay two. Once in Seven’s quarters, she turned to B’Elanna.

 

“Kathryn has terminated our relationship. She said that our feelings were irrelevant; that we could not be together on Voyager while she commands.”

 

“I know what she said. She gave you the standard Starfleet line. But she loves you, Seven. She told me that. And you love her. As long as you both feel that way, there’s hope. Like I told you before, this isn’t over by a long shot. You go regenerate. I’ll stay here tonight. In fact, let me take out a little insurance…Torres to Chakotay…”

 

“Chakotay here.”

 

“Would you log Seven of Nine and me off duty for tomorrow?”

 

“Consider it done, Lieutenant. Is Seven OK?”

 

“She will be as soon as she regenerates. I’m staying here tonight.”

 

“Acknowledged. Chakotay out.”

 

“OK, that’s taken care of. Now go regenerate. We’ll talk in the morning. Everything will look better then.”

 

“I do not think that likely. It will never be right again.”

 

“Seven, believe me. The captain made a big mistake tonight. Eventually, she will realize that. Right now, everybody just needs some time and space to put things in perspective. And what YOU need right now is to regenerate so your shoulder heals fully. Fighting Hirogen in the holodeck could have damaged you permanently you know. Not a smart thing to do. Now get in your alcove and let your body heal. I’ll stay here with you. In the morning we’ll talk and make whatever plans we need to.”

 

“What plans could we possibly make? The captain does not want a relationship with me…”

 

“Seven, you’re not alone in this. Your friends are here for you. We all think the captain is wrong, and we’ll do whatever we can to help you and make her realize her mistake. Now, please, regenerate. We’re all worried about you.”

 

Seven reluctantly stepped into her alcove and B’Elanna keyed in the cycle controls. Once the cycle began, she walked into the living area and tossed her uniform tunic on a chair. She replicated a Kendarian ale and settled on the couch.

 

What a mess! Damn Janeway! How could she do that to Seven? How can some stupid Starfleet principles be more important to her than that sweet Borg? All Seven wanted was to love her. Would that have been so god-awful? It’s a damned good thing I was thrown out of the Academy…I will NEVER understand Starfleet officers as long as I live!

 

Her thoughts were interrupted by the door chime.

 

“Come!” she called. Chakotay entered and greeted her.

 

“How’s Seven doing?”

 

“She’s in her alcove regenerating. Physically she should be fine. Mentally? She’s a mess. Who wouldn’t be?”

 

“What are you drinking?”

 

“Kendarian ale.”

 

“Sounds good. May I join you?”

 

“Suit yourself.”

 

He settled next to her on the couch. “I just came from the captain’s quarters.”

 

B’Elanna snorted. “Don’t expect me to be concerned about Janeway. She’s the cause of all this.”

 

“Well, you should be concerned. She collapsed. Seven isn’t the only one who’s not in good shape right now.”

 

“Serves her right!” growled Torres.

 

“B’Elanna, Kathryn made a difficult choice. We may not agree with it, but she had her reasons.”

 

“Don’t, Chakotay! Don’t ask me to understand what she did! She broke Seven’s heart…don’t ask me to forgive her for that. I can’t!”

 

“I’m not asking you to forgive her. Just to understand that she thought she had to do what she did.”

 

“Why would she think that? Who on this ship wasn’t happy for Seven and her? Everybody was excited at the thought of them getting married. Everybody!”

 

“I know that. But there are things in her past that…”

 

“Things in HER past? Give me a break, Chakotay! Looks at Seven’s past!  She was assimilated when she was six! She was raised by the fuckin’ Borg! And she could still love! She could still love so much her heart’s breaking right now. Don’t try to tell me about Janeway’s past!”

 

“B’Elanna, what I’m trying to tell you is that they’re BOTH hurting right now. I don’t want you to do anything to make the situation worse.”

 

“Don’t worry, Chakotay. I’m not going to challenge the captain to combat to restore Seven’s honor.”

 

“That’s not what I mean and you know it. I don’t want you doing anything to undermine the captain’s authority. And I expect that Engineering will continue to run with its usual efficiency.”

 

B’Elanna glared at him. “I have my honor too. Engineering will run at peak efficiency. I will do my duty. I will continue to serve this ship to the best of my ability. Just don’t ask me to respect its Captain any more.”

 

“But I WILL ask you to respect the captain. The position if not the woman. Voyager needs that from all its officers.”

 

“Fine. I’ll respect the position. Are you finished?”

 

“Captain Janeway will be off duty for a few days. Can I assume you’ll be helping Seven get through this?”

 

“Yes, you can.”

 

“Good. Now, how do we fix this?”

 

“What do you mean, ‘how do we fix this’?”

 

“You know exactly what I mean. Tuvok doesn’t say much, but I can tell he’s upset at what happened. You obviously are. I assume Harry and Tom share your feelings. The Doctor is nearly beside himself. Obviously, senior staff thinks the captain made a mistake. How do we make her realize that she has?”

 

“I don’t know, Chakotay. But one thing I DO know is that I’m not going to let Seven give up. She’s just as stubborn as the captain can be. I just need to keep reminding her of that. She’s hurting now, but if we all keep telling her that the captain really DOES love her, then she will pursue her to the ends of the galaxy.”

 

“And we’ll have to keep reminding the captain that Seven loves her and that she loves Seven. All without seeming like we’re interfering in her personal life. Shouldn’t be difficult at all,” he said wryly.

 

B’Elanna grinned at him. “For this group? Piece of cake!”

 

Chakotay smiled back at her and clapped her on the knee.

 

“Then my work here is finished. I’ll see you sometime tomorrow.” With that, her rose and left.

 

B’Elanna replicated herself another ale and hailed Tom.

 

“Torres to Paris.”

 

“Paris here, B’Elanna.”

 

“Why don’t you grab Harry and come down to Cargo Bay two?”

 

“Already on our way. We’ll be there in just a sec. Paris out.”

 

In moments, the door chime sounded again. Tom and Harry entered, saw what B’Elanna was drinking and quickly obtained their own drinks.

 

“So how’s she doing?” asked Tom.

 

“She’s devastated. What would you expect? But she’s regenerating now and as soon as she wakes up in the morning we’re going to start planning how to get them back together. ALL of us. Seven needs her friends right now.”

 

“We’ll be here for her, B’Elanna,” said Harry, “Don’t worry.”

 

Tom shifted uncomfortably in his seat.

 

“I probably shouldn’t tell you this, but I overheard the Doctor muttering to himself after he returned from the captain’s cabin. He had to sedate her. I guess she was in a bad way.”

 

Harry was astounded. “The Doctor had to SEDATE the captain?”

 

“Yeah, I guess she passed out when Tuvok walked in on her. And when the Doctor revived her, she was nearly hysterical. That’s when he sedated her. He’s spending the night in her cabin.”

 

“Why would she do something like this? I still don’t understand her reasoning,” said B’Elanna.

 

“Well, there’s no written regulation, but Starfleet doesn’t look too kindly on captains who pursue romantic entanglements within their crews,” replied Harry. “Our situation is a lot different from typical crews’ though. I can’t imagine that Starfleet would be upset about something like this on a mission that may take twenty years.”

 

“The captain is Starfleet to her bones, Harry,” said Tom. “Maybe she wasn’t thinking that far ahead. It’s hard for someone like her to ignore their training. She’s just like my Dad in that respect.”

 

“So what are we going to do about it?” asked Harry.

 

“We’re going to sit here and…”

 

Once again, the door chime sounded.

 

“Come!” hollered B’Elanna. The door opened and Neelix walked in.

 

“Hello everybody. I just dropped off an incident report to Commander Tuvok and he suggested that I should come down here. What’s going on?”  He replicated himself a Talaxian beer and joined them. B’Elanna quickly brought the Talaxian up to speed on the evening’s events.

 

“So what are we going to do about it?” he asked.

 

“Well, like I was saying when you walked in; we’re going to sit here and plan. All night if we have to…”

 

 

It was almost 0700 hours before Janeway awoke from the sedative. Her mind was fuzzy and when she tried to focus her vision, the room spun.

 

“Ah, you’re awake. How do you feel?” asked the EMH from his seat next to her bed.

 

“Like my head is full of cotton. What did you do to me?”

 

“I sedated you last night. You were emotionally…distraught.”

 

“Tuvok was there…he came in without permission…”

 

“Lt. Commander Tuvok had rescued Seven of Nine from Hirogen in the holodeck. She removed the safeties from his most dangerous training program and was nearly beaten to death before he got the program stopped….”

 

A flash of panic crossed Janeway’s face and she jumped to her feet in alarm.

 

 “Is she all right? Where is she? Did she hurt her shoulder again?”

 

“She’s fine, I assure you. I treated her injuries and sent her back to her quarters to regenerate with Lt. Torres.”

 

Janeway let out a ragged sigh of relief and sat down heavily on the bed grabbing her head with both hands as a wave of dizziness washed over her.

 

“Humph…as I was saying, Lt. Commander Tuvok stopped the program, but when he saw the engagement ring she’d given you on the floor of the holodeck, he assumed that you might be in some distress as well. When he requested admittance to your quarters his hail was ignored several times. After verifying that you were, indeed, inside, he overrode the door security to check on you. That’s part of his job as Chief of Security. Apparently, when you rose to accost him you blacked out. He summoned me and when I brought you around you became…violent. That’s when I sedated you.”

 

“Well, you can leave now. I’m awake and I’m fine.”

 

“Really? If your actions last night are any indication, you’re far from ‘all right’.”

 

“Doctor, I’m fine. Please leave me alone, I need to get to the bridge.”

 

“You’re not going anywhere until I’m certain you’re fit for duty. And right at this moment, I’m anything but certain.”

 

Janeway attempted to stand up again, but was hit with another wave of dizziness. After a minute, the room stopped spinning and she rose on shaky legs. The EMH moved to her side and ran his tricorder over her. He then removed the cortical monitor he’d placed on her neck the night before.

 

“You should be over the worst of the sedative’s effects in a little while. I’m ordering you to take the next 48 hours off duty. You need to take it easy for a couple of days.”

 

“Doctor, I’m fine. I just need a shower and a cup of coffee.”

 

“You are NOT fine. Your neural functions are still higher than they should be. Until I get normal readings, you’re going to rest. And that’s going into the medical logs. This time, you’re not talking me out of it. You’re off duty for 48 hours.”

 

Janeway wanted to argue with him but didn’t have the strength.

 

“Fine. I’ll take the next 48 hours off. Now will you leave me in peace?”

 

“I’ll go back to Sickbay, but I’m coming back every eight hours to run tests again. Like I said, until I get normal readings, you’re off duty.” And with that, the EMH walked out of her quarters and back to Sickbay.

 

Janeway walked into the bathroom and stripped off her rumpled uniform. She dumped it into the recycler and took a hot shower. As the soothing water streamed over her, her mind went back to the night before and to her dismay, tears began flowing down her cheeks. As she thought of the look on Seven’s face when she handed back the ring, she felt the pain spring fresh again in her chest. She could not control her tears.

 

Even after she’d stepped out of the shower, dried off and dressed in her favorite Academy sweats the tears trickled from her eyes. She replicated a mug of coffee and sat on her sofa looking out at the blurred stars of the warp field surrounding Voyager. The sight of the stars usually comforted her, but this morning it only seemed bleak and forbidding. Still her tears fell unchecked. She lost track of time as she stared into the void of space. She was startled by her door chime. Hastily, she wiped the evidence of her tears from her face.

 

“Come!”

 

Chakotay walked into her quarters and sat next to her on the couch.

 

“The Doctor tells me you’re taking a couple of days off. It’s about time you took some vacation. I just thought I’d let you know that the Mylapaq will be leaving us at 1600 hours. They’ll be breaking off and returning to regular patrol duties then.”

 

“Please thank Captain Ta’arqual for everything he’s done for us. And have him relay our thanks to the Premier.”

 

“I will. And Kathryn, if you want to…talk…I’m here for you.”

 

“Thank you, Chakotay, but there’s nothing to talk about. I’m fine.”

 

“I…yes, Captain.” He rose and walked to the door. When he reached it, he turned back to say something and stopped.  Janeway had again turned to look at the stars, her expression bleak. He could see the glistening trail of a tear on her cheek. Shaking his head, he left her quarters and returned to the bridge.

 

 

“Regeneration cycle complete,” chirped the computer. Seven of Nine opened her eyes and stepped off the dais of her alcove. B’Elanna stuck her head in the door.

 

“Good morning. How’s the shoulder feeling?”

 

“I am functioning within normal parameters.”

 

“Then come and get some breakfast. I’ve got it ready.”

 

There was none of the usual conversation during the meal. Seven ate with mechanical precision, a severe frown on her face. B’Elanna did not press her, knowing that when Seven had processed whatever she needed to, she would talk. Finally, as B’Elanna was clearing the table, the ex-drone spoke.

 

“B’Elanna, did anyone find the ring I gave Kath…the captain in the holodeck last night?”

 

“I’ve got it. Tuvok found it and gave it to the Doctor. He gave it to me.”

 

“Recycle it please. Extract whatever you can from this one as well, then vaporize whatever remains.” She pulled the wide gold band off her finger and set it on the table. B’Elanna picked it up without comment then sat down.

 

“You know, Tom and Harry and Neelix and I were talking last night, and…”

 

“No! I do not wish to hear any of your plans or schemes. Captain Janeway has terminated our relationship. There is nothing more to say or do about it.”

 

“OK, OK. Don’t get all worked up. You know we’ll do whatever you want. You’re the one that was dumped on here, Seven. We just want you to be OK.”

 

“I am functioning acceptably.”

 

“If you’re functioning so well, why did you take on every Hirogen in the quadrant without safeties last night?”

 

“I was angry and hurt last night. I wished to strike out at the pain the captain caused me, but I could not. I chose the Hirogen instead.”

 

“Yeah, well, those Hirogen almost did you in. You should think about being a little more Borg when you get upset.”

 

Seven cocked her optical implant. “Explain.”

 

“I just mean that when you get upset or emotional about something instead of just striking out blindly get cold. Get logical. Be more Borg. That way you won’t get beat up in the holodeck again.”

 

“You are not the best person to tell me to be logical when I am angry or upset.”

 

B’Elanna laughed. “I know. That’s why I’m telling you. Don’t react like I would…be yourself. Be Borg. Use that brain of yours instead of letting your emotions rule you. Think before you act. I know you’ve worked with Tuvok on martial arts. Have you ever thought about having him help you with meditation? Might help you control those emotions that are so new to you.”

 

Seven frowned. “I had not thought of that. Do you think the he would help me?”

 

“I’m sure he would. All you have to do is ask him.”

 

“I will do that.”

 

“So, we’re off duty today. What do you want to do? I’ve got some holodeck time squirreled away. Do you?”

 

“Yes, I have twelve hours available.”

 

“I think we need to do something that’s physically challenging. Have you ever skied?”

 

“No, I have not participated in winter sports.”

 

“You’ll be a natural. Let’s reserve the holodeck this afternoon and go skiing. We can take some lessons and then ski on our own. Where would you like to go? St. Moritz? Vail? Torino?”

 

“I have no knowledge of these places. You choose.”

 

“Well, I like Kitzbühel myself. The town is nice and there are some great restaurants for when we finish. How about I have Tom and Harry join us after their shift? We can spend the morning taking lessons and then ski in the afternoon and have dinner in the evening.”

 

“Acceptable.”

 

B’Elanna slapped her comm badge. “Torres to Paris.”

 

“Paris here. Go ahead B’Elanna.”

 

“Seven and I are going to Kitzbühel this afternoon. How about you and Harry join us after your shift? We can all grab some Spätzle and Sauerbraten when we get tired of skiing.”

 

“Sounds like fun. We’ll meet you there as soon as we get off duty.”

 

“It’s a date. Torres out.”

 

“OK Seven, all we have to do is get you some ski clothes and gear and we’re set.”

 

The two women spent the morning outfitting and teaching Seven to ski. Borg implants made her a quick study and soon both women were flying down the slopes with abandon. Seven decided that she enjoyed the strenuous activity and bracing cold. When they broke for lunch in the mess hall, neither changed out of their ski clothes and their appearance caused quite a stir amongst the crew. The two beauties were oblivious, laughing over their meal and making plans for the afternoon. They were taking a breather halfway down the Ganslernhang run when they heard a shout and Tom and Harry skied down to them. The four friends continued skiing until hunger drove them from the slopes. They found a local restaurant and enjoyed the Tyrolean cuisine and beer. When they finally emerged from the holodeck, all four were pleasantly tired. B’Elanna and Seven said good night to the men and headed toward their respective quarters. As they were about to part, Seven touched B’Elanna’s arm.

 

“Thank you for today. I know you were worried about me. It was good to get…‘away’…from Voyager for a time.”

 

“Yeah, well the fact that skiing wears you out and you’ll sleep well tonight doesn’t hurt either. I had fun today. We can’t do it all that often, but we’ll do it again; I promise. So don’t recycle your gear.  G’Night, Your Borgness!”

 

“Good night, Klingon.”

 

 

While Seven returned to her duties the next morning, Janeway remained in virtual seclusion in her quarters. The past day had done little to ease the ache inside her, although she was regaining control of her tears. She had eaten and slept little, just sat staring out at the stars and exchanging her cold coffee for fresh when she thought of it. Memories of her days with Seven crowded her mind. As she remembered their time together a feeling of deep loss pervaded her. Even as she regained control of her emotions, the ache of loss she had known so well in her life returned to dominate her heart.

 

The Doctor cleared her for full duty after 48 hours. As she walked on the bridge that first morning back, Harry and Tom exchanged worried looks. Janeway’s face was pale and drawn and dark circles surrounded her eyes. She returned to her ready room and tried to focus on the reports that had accumulated during her enforced absence, coffee mug close at hand.

 

It was lunch before Harry and Tom could talk to B’Elanna.

 

“I’m telling you, B’Elanna, she looked like death on toast! She’s got huge dark circles under her eyes and her face is so pinched it looks like she’s in physical pain,”  Tom told her.

 

“Well, I’m not going to say that bothers me. She SHOULD be in pain after what she did to Seven.”

 

“B’Elanna, I know how you feel. But if you could have seen the haunted look in her eyes…this is tearing her apart; just like it is Seven. She may have broken things off, but it’s obvious it wasn’t easy for her.”

 

Neelix bustled up and sat down with them. “Have you seen the captain today?” he asked them.

 

“Yeah, I was just telling B’Elanna about how bad she looks.”

 

“I brought a pot of coffee to her ready room around 0900 hours and she looked like she was about to pass out. What are we going to do?”

 

B’Elanna thought about it for a minute. “Well, for starters, we need to get Seven to see how much the captain’s hurting. Maybe that will douse some of her anger. But we’ve got to do it so that Captain Janeway doesn’t know Seven’s coming. If she does, that command mask of hers will drop down and she’ll just be steely. It’s got to be a chance meeting.”

 

“How about here in the Mess Hall?” asked Neelix.

 

“Too crowded…too many crew around. It needs to be some place where they’re alone. If there’s anyone else around, the captain will just withdraw, and Seven will stay pissed. This needs to happen where nobody else is around.”

 

“Could we arrange to have them bump into each other outside Engineering? Maybe fix it so the captain is leaving Engineering as Seven is arriving? Can you come up with a reason for the captain to come to Engineering, B’Elanna?”

 

Torres thought for a moment.

 

“Yeah…I’ve got an idea. Here’s what we’ll do…”

 

 

Janeway was still attempting to wade through the mass of reports in her ready room that afternoon when B’Elanna hailed her.

 

“Torres to the captain.”

 

“Janeway here, B’Elanna. What is it?”

 

“Captain, if you’ve got a couple of minutes, I need you to take a look at something in Engineering.”

 

“I’m on my way, Lieutenant. Janeway out.”

 

She rose, left the ready room and advised Chakotay she was headed for Engineering. When she got there, B’Elanna, Lt. Nicoletti and Ensign Vorik were deep in discussion over a data display.

 

“Captain, thanks for coming down. We’ve got a weird power anomaly that I’ve never seen before. Would you take a look and see if it looks familiar to you?”

 

Janeway was mildly surprised that her Chief of Engineering would ask her opinion on such a seemingly unimportant matter, but frowned when she looked at the display.

 

“That kind of power fluctuation could cause cracks in the plasma manifolds! We could be looking at a core breach if they went undetected! How long has this been going on?”

 

“I noticed the initial fluctuation around 1230 hours, Captain,” replied Ensign Vorik.

 

“We’ve been running diagnostics since Vorik reported it but can’t find any cause,” said Lt. Nicoletti.

 

B’Elanna kept her mouth shut. She not only knew the origin of the unusual power spike, she’d caused it. Right after returning to Engineering after lunch. And had a carefully disguised program running to continue generating the spikes at odd intervals until 1700 hours at which time the unusual fluctuations would cease.

 

Janeway continued to frown as she studied the sensor readings.

 

“Once on the Al-Batani we encountered a nebula giving off huge tachyon radiation bursts. They caused power spikes in the warp manifolds. Has there been any indication of higher-than-normal radiation today?”

 

“None that sensors have recorded, Captain.” B’Elanna’s fingers were flying over a workstation control surface.

 

“Has there been any problems with the warp core since you discovered the fluctuations?”

 

“No, Captain. We’ve been monitoring the core continuously since Vorik reported the spike. It’s operating right at optimum,” replied B’Elanna.

 

“Very well, continue your analysis and keep me advised of your findings. I’m heading back to my ready room.”

 

“Yes, Captain.” B’Elanna stopped her data entry when Janeway announced her intention to leave Engineering. She walked with Janeway to the doors, talking quietly and nodding at what the captain said. When Janeway exited the deck, she turned to Vorik and Nicoletti.

 

“Keep monitoring the core and let me know if it happens again. I’m going into my office and dig into the sensor logs.”

 

“Aye, aye, Lieutenant,” they replied in unison.

 

Seven of Nine had been working at the Astrometrics control board when a message from B’Elanna arrived asking her to come to Engineering to take a look at a problem with her. She quickly secured her board and headed down to the Engineering decks. As she exited the turbolift and turned into the corridor leading to the Engineering section, she nearly ran into Janeway on her way back to the ‘lift. She nodded stiffly to the older woman as she passed her.

 

“Captain.”

 

Janeway looked shocked when Seven appeared in front of her, but managed to reply fairly evenly.

 

“Good afternoon, Seven.” She continued to the ‘lift.

 

Seven maintained her stride until she stepped into the Engineering doors and then nearly stumbled in dismay. She looked around the section but B’Elanna wasn’t visible.

 

“Lt. Torres is in her office, Seven,” supplied Lt. Nicoletti, unasked.

 

“Thank you, Lieutenant.”

 

Seven managed to walk steadily to B’Elanna’s office as her mind and heart churned. She collapsed rather than sat into a chair in the crowded space.

 

“Seven, thanks for coming so quickly. We’ve got a…”

 

“B’Elanna! I just saw Kathryn…I…is she…there is something wrong with her!”

 

“Whoa, Seven. What are you talking about?”

 

“I passed the captain on my way here. She looks ill…she is in pain! Something is terribly wrong…”

 

B’Elanna regarded her friend seriously.

 

“What’s wrong with her is that her heart is breaking too, Seven. She looks better now than when she reported for duty this morning. Tom told me that the bridge crew thought she’d faint before she got to her ready room this morning.”

 

Seven looked almost confused. “Her heart is breaking too? But B’Elanna, if that is the case, why did she end our…relationship?”

 

“Because she has some foolish idea that she had to, Seven. The big question is what happens now? Are you going to just sit there while both of you suffer or are you going to do something about it?”

 

“What can I do, B’Elanna? She has made up her mind. She will not change it.”

 

“Convince her that she’s wrong. You’ve never had a problem arguing with her before this. Why now?”

 

“Because the captain is extremely stubborn and she is afraid. She has lost almost everyone she loves. How can I argue with that? The Starfleet guideline is merely an excuse. But I cannot force her to love me.”

 

“You’re every bit as stubborn as the captain. Why would you think you can’t argue with her when she’s obviously made a bad decision? Tell me something, Seven. Do you still love her?”

 

“Of course I love her! I will always love her!”

 

“Do you want to marry her?”

 

“Of course I still want to marry her. My feelings will not change!”

 

“Well then, what’s stopping you? You fought for her once…fight for her again.”

 

“She will not like that at all.”

 

“No, she won’t. But she’s wrong. She loves you…and you love her. You just need to be a little bit more stubborn than she is and remind her of that fact.”

 

“How would I do that?”

 

“Well, why don’t you ask her out to dinner and talk about it then?”

 

“She will refuse.”

 

“Yes, she will. You just keep asking until you wear her down. That’s where your stubborness will help.”

 

“And you think that will work?”

 

“Yes I do, Seven. We’re all on your side; Chakotay, Tuvok, Neelix, Harry, Tom, me. We’ll help you in any way we can.”

 

Seven regarded her friend with a new gleam of determination in her eye.

 

“B’Elanna, have you recycled the rings yet?”

 

Torres opened her top desk drawer, took out the rings and silently handed them to Seven.

 

A small smile appeared at the corners of Seven’s mouth. She rose to leave.

 

“Thank you, B’Elanna. What was is you needed to see me about?”

 

Torres grinned at her. “Turns out it was nothing after all. I’m sorry to have bothered you.”

 

As soon as the former Borg drone had exited her office, she quietly cancelled her carefully hidden program.

 

Seven left Engineering and headed directly to Sickbay. When she stepped through the doors to the medical bay, the EMH frowned slightly.

 

“Afternoon, Seven. Is there something wrong?”

 

No, Doctor. I am functioning normally. I have a question for you.”

 

“Well, ask away.”

 

“When you removed my Borg implants and exoplating, did you retain any of them?”

 

“Yes, we did. I have several non-essential implants in stasis. I’ve been studying them to see if some if them can’t be adapted to help the crew in case of serious injuries without assimilating them. Why do you ask?”

 

“I require a small amount of metal from them.”

 

“Why do you need some metal from your implants?”

 

“It is a personal matter. May I see the implants you have retained?”

 

With a nod the EMH took her into the lab and pulled out several stasis paks.

 

As Seven opened the paks and regarded the technology that had made her Borg a faint feeling of queasiness passed through her. If Kathryn Janeway had not severed her from the Collective, the implants she now handled would still be controlling her existence. She would never had known so many things. She would never know how wonderful love is, or how warm good friends can make one feel. She would never have played Velocity or skiied. She would not know about music or dancing. Or how delicious tomato soup and toasted cheese sandwiches taste. With a small mental sigh of thankfulness, she selected one of the larger implants. It only took a moment for her Borg-enhanced left hand to wrench a non-essential piece of metal the size of a walnut off of it.

 

“Thank you Doctor. The piece I took will not affect the functioning of the implant.”

 

She carefully reclosed the stasis paks and left Sickbay for her quarters. Once there, she moved quickly to the replicator. She placed the lump of Borg metal in it and programmed a complex sequence. In a moment, the metal vanished to be replaced by a shining chain necklace. She unfastened the clasp and slipped the engagement rings onto it, then hung it around her neck. It was long enough that the rings were concealed by her clothing. Liking the secure feeling wearing them gave her, she returned to Astrometrics to complete her shift and make her plans.

 

 

The next morning at precisely 1000 hours she rang the chime of Janeway’s ready room.

 

“Come!”

 

She entered and walked to the front of the captain’s desk standing stiffly at attention with her hands clasped behind her back.

 

Janeway regarded her without expression.

 

“How can I help you, Seven?”

 

“Captain, would you have dinner with me tomorrow night?”

 

“Under the circumstances, I don’t think that would be a very good idea.”

 

A small quirk raised the corners of Seven’s mouth.

 

“As you wish, Captain. Thank you.” With that, she spun on her heel and walked out leaving Janeway seriouly puzzled.

 

Later that day, at precisely 1500 hours, the chime rang again.

 

“Come!” called Janeway.

 

Once again, Seven strode into the office and took her position directly in front of Janeway. For a moment, neither woman spoke.

 

“Captain, will you have dinner with me tomorrow night?”

 

“I told you earlier I didn’t think that was a good idea.”

Again, the small smile touched Seven’s mouth.

 

“As you wish, Captain. Thank you.” And she left, saying nothing more.

 

The next day, the cycle was repeated. And the day after that. And the day after that. Each day, precisely at 1000 and 1500 hours, Seven of Nine would confront Janeway (wherever she was) and ask her to dinner the following evening. If Janeway was in her quarters and refused to acknowledge Seven’s chime, Seven merely overrode the locking protocols and entered anyway. If Janeway tried to avoid her in other areas of the ship, Seven appeared as if by magic and asked her question. There was never any argument, never any hostility. Just the politely phrased question, the small smile and the words “As you wish, Captain. Thank you.”

 

The crew had been aware of the breakup almost from the moment it happened. Most thought that Janeway was being unreasonable and were cheering for Seven to prevail in her quest. Janeway was becoming more and more distracted by the events; beginning to despair of ever being able to avoid Seven. Periodically, a dozen roses arrived in her ready room promptly at 1200 hours with a hand-written card saying that Seven was thinking of her. Exobiology started a couple of new betting pools; the trifecta pool of date, time and place Janeway would finally cave in quickly reaching six months’ replicator rations. The senior staff was no help to Janeway at all; if they were in a conference with her at the moment Seven was scheduled to appear, they would quickly excuse themselves to leave the Astrometrics Officer a clear shot at the captain. Janeway entertained dark thoughts of charging them all with mutiny.

 

Finally, after nearly three weeks, a dozen roses arrived on Janeway’s desk, delivered by an overly cheerful Harry Kim.

 

“Delivery for you, Captain. They look gorgeous, don’t they? And here’s the card.”

 

“Dismissed, Ensign!” snapped a frazzled Janeway, snatching the card from him. She glanced at it and then did a double-take. Instead of the usual sentiments, the card merely read “Resistance Is Futile!”

 

Janeway put her head in her hands and tried not to laugh. Part of her was upset, distracted and annoyed at her inability to avoid the determined Borg. Another part of her was excited and thrilled by Seven’s efforts. She was still convinced she had done the right thing, but if she was being totally honest with herself, she had to admit she loved Seven for what she was doing.

 

But it couldn’t continue. The entire crew seemed focused only on when Seven would appear and accost the captain. Of course, once Tuvok revealed the Exobiology betting pools to her, that explained most of their attention. Janeway was an intensely private person and the fact that her entire crew seemed to be examining her love life bothered her greatly. This had to end. So when Seven appeared that afternoon, again, promptly at 1500 hours, she regarded her with flashing eyes.

 

“Captain, will you have dinner with me tomorrow evening?”

 

“Don’t you think this has gone on long enough?!”

 

“No. I repeat; Captain, will you have dinner with me tomorrow evening?”

 

“How many times do you need to hear me say no?!”

 

“As many as it takes for you to say ‘yes’. Again, will you have dinner with me tomorrow evening, Captain?”

 

“FINE!! OK!!! YES!! I will have dinner with you tomorrow evening!!” Janeway was shouting now.

 

She was rewarded with a smile that would have lit a black hole.

 

“1900 hours. Holodeck 2. Tomorrow evening. Dress casually. Thank you, Captain.” And Seven and her glorious smile turned and left the ready room.

 

What have I done?? She thought in dismay, while that annoying little voice in her head was jumping up and down cheering.

 

Seven’s friends had not been idle. Harry and Tom spent all their off-duty hours for nearly a week programming the perfect setting for the dinner. Neelix placed the entire contents of his contraband wine collection at her disposal. The Doctor and B’Elanna offered fashion advice. Tuvok said little; he merely reiterated his opinion that the captain cared deeply for Seven and that she should continue in her efforts. Chakotay chipped in with his thoughts on the dinner menu. Any time she faltered in her resolve, any time she became discouraged, the senior staff was there to offer her encouragement. Their faith in her eventual victory was unwavering, as was their faith that she was doing the right thing for not only Captain Janeway, but the entire Voyager family as well. Finally, after three weeks of planning, everything was ready.

 

 

Seven of Nine checked the table setting once again. The china and crystal gleamed in the candlelight; the table cloth was a brilliant white against the slate of the terrace.  A light spring wine chilled in an ice bucket. The seafood and pasta she had replicated earlier rested under stasis lids for the holographic waiter to deliver to the table. She could do nothing more to prepare.

 

Seven leaned against the doorway gazing out over Lake Cuomo. The mountains seemed purple in the sunset. She could do nothing more to make the setting perfect. She had already won half the battle; Kathryn had agreed to this dinner.  Now all she had to do was conquer Kathryn’s fears with cool logic. She must convince the captain of Voyager that the love they shared would not compromise her command. That it was worth going against the unwritten Starfleet regs against officers fraternizing. That their love was stronger than Kathryn’s fears of loss. She fingered the chain she wore under her shirt. On it were the two engagement rings they had worn on Ma’altara Prime. If she was successful, both of them would be back on the fingers they were made for before morning. She would once again have Kathryn in her life – for the rest of her life.

 

Still, she could not ease her anxiety. She had told Kathryn to dress casually hoping a walk along the lake shore after eating would facilitate conversation. She hoped her jeans and shirt would help relax the tension she knew would be present between them. Nervously, she fingered the chain again. She had left the top three buttons of her shirt unfastened, the chain and rings showed occasionally depending on how she moved. It might disturb Kathryn if she saw it. Quickly, she took it over her head and jammed it in the front pocket of her jeans.

 

She did not move when she heard the holodeck doors open. She waited until she heard them close and then quietly said, “Secure holodeck doors with Borg encryption code Seven-Alpha-one-zero.” Only then did she turn to face the woman she loved.

 

“Good evening, Captain. Thank you for coming.”

 

“Hello, Seven. You were very persistent. You wore me down.”

 

Seven quirked the corner of her mouth in amusement. “As I told you, I am Borg. Resistance is futile.”

 

Kathryn smiled. “So you demonstrated yet again. I’m sorry that I’m still in uniform; I was delayed on the bridge and didn’t have time to change. I hope that won’t be a problem?”

 

“Not at all. Please, have a seat.” Seven pulled out a chair and held it for the older woman. She eased it forward when Kathryn sat, then took her seat opposite her. The waiter appeared and poured the wine.

 

“I hope you will enjoy this wine. Neelix assures me it is most palatable.”

 

“I’m sure I will. What are we having for dinner?”

 

“Scallops and penne in a creamy garlic sauce. Italian ices for dessert.”

 

“It sounds delicious, Seven. The setting is beautiful. Is it from Earth?”

 

“Yes. Lake Cuomo in northern Italy. Mr. Paris assures me it is exactly like a small trattoria he visited during his academy days.”

 

The women were cautious; neither wanted to spoil the moment by launching into the discussion both knew was coming.

 

“I understand Exobiology had a betting pool on when this dinner would happen. Do you happen to know who won it?” asked Janeway.

 

“I believe it was won by Lieutenant Torres, although it would appear several protests have been filed. Tell me, Captain, what exactly is ‘insider information’?”

 

Janeway almost choked when her bite of salad collided with her erupting laughter.

 

“I…have missed our interactions, Captain.”

 

“So have I, Seven. Maybe when things calm down a bit more we can think about resuming some of them.”

 

The conversation over salads was desultory; routine matters concerning the ship and crew. As the salads were removed and the entrees served, Kathryn broached the subject they had both avoided.

 

“So, am I to assume by the fact that you have asked me to dinner morning and evening of every day for the past three weeks that this date has a purpose?”

 

“You may. And I believe you know the purpose.”

 

“Seven, we’ve been over this before.”

 

“No, Captain, we have not. We have talked around the central issues. I have repeatedly listened to your excuses and had Starfleet thrown at me . But we have not talked about the real problem.”

 

“And what, in your opinion, is the real problem?”

 

“Your fears, Captain. Your fears that somehow if we acknowledge our feelings for one another and act on them, I will abandon you. I assure you, I will not.”

 

Kathryn flushed. “That is ridiculous. I’ve told you why we can’t pursue a personal relationship. It goes against every principle of command. It has nothing to do with any past history of mine. I am the captain. This vessel and its crew must always be my first and only concern. That is my duty to Starfleet and my duty to this crew.”

 

“I know you believe that, Captain. But I believe you are using your duty to Voyager as an excuse. An excuse to avoid being hurt again.”

 

“Hurt again? You don’t know what you’re talking about, Seven. I am Captain of Voyager; that must always come first for me.”

 

“And why does your command coming first have to exclude personal happiness? Do you not have ANY personal time? If that is the case, when is it that we have played Velocity?”

 

“You know what I mean. My focus must always be on the ship and crew.”

 

“And why does that preclude you having a personal relationship? You have done an outstanding job of separating Kathryn Janeway the captain from Kathryn the woman. All I am saying is that Kathryn the woman deserves as much of your attention as Janeway the captain does.”

 

“You make me sound like I have split personalities. I don’t.”

 

“No, you do not. You completely subsume Kathryn the woman. You ignore her needs and wants all in the name of ‘duty’. And you suffer because of it. As I have said to you before, the only time I have seen true happiness in your eyes was after the conflict at the Premier’s residence. For a few days your eyes were clear…happy…without loneliness. What I am asking is to allow them to remain that way.”

 

“Seven, when I assumed command of this ship, I put duty above all else. It is the only way I know to command.”

 

“And where did you learn those concepts of duty and command, Captain? I have read Starfleet regulations and nowhere have I found one that denies a captain personal happiness. Could it have been from your father, perhaps?”

 

“My father was a dedicated and decorated Starfleet officer. He gave his family all that he could.”

 

“Ah, yes. He gave his family all that he could. But was he right to do so? Was he right to put Starfleet ahead of everything else in his life? To the exclusion of you and your sister and your mother?”

 

“Of course he was right! He was an Admiral in Starfleet!”

 

“Does being an Admiral in Starfleet guarantee that you make no mistakes? Does being an Admiral in Starfleet mean that you cannot take the time to realize what effect your actions have on those you love? Does being an Admiral in Starfleet give you the right to hurt those you supposedly love with impunity?”

 

“My father never hurt us! He was a wonderful father.”

 

“He was an absent father. Your mother held your family together. She was an adult and could make choices for herself. But what choice did you and your sister have?”

 

“What are you talking about? Our family was happy.”

 

“Was it? Was it happiness that drove you so desperately when you were young? To excel at everything you thought your father held dear? Was that not to get the attention from him you so desperately craved? Did his absence and indifference not hurt you?”

 

“My father was not indifferent to me!!”

 

“You have told me how much you loved and admired him. But you were also hurt by his constant absences while you were a child. Are you sure that his concept of duty to the exclusion of his family was for the best? That duty to Starfleet was more important than the happiness of his children?”

 

“Do you presume to judge my father? Where do you think you have that right? And where did you get the idea that my father’s position made me unhappy?”

 

Seven regarded her with equanimity. “From your personal logs.”

 

“How dare you! I should bring you up on charges for that!”

 

“What is the old expression…? ‘All’s fair in love and war’? I would do anything for what I feel for you. Including face court-martial and your wrath if need be.”

 

“Love? Is that what you call love? Your actions would make it appear far closer to war!”

 

“Captain, your father’s service record is part of the Starfleet database. It was easy to access. He was gone for many extended periods during your childhood. My memories of my childhood are vague at best, but everything I have read on the subject indicates that parental presence is important to a child’s development. It is obvious from the way you speak of him that you loved him very much. It hurt you that Starfleet took him away from you so much.”

 

“I was fine. It was worse for Phoebe than for me…”

 

“If it was so much worse for Phoebe, why was it you insisted that you and your fiancé Justin accompany him on the test flight of that experimental vehicle? The flight that cost you both of them?”

 

Face bright red, Kathryn leapt to her feet and threw her napkin on the table.

 

“This conversation is over!!” In her haste to leave the table, she knocked over her chair as she turned and stormed toward the trattoria doorway.

 

Seven caught her in four strides and threw her arms around the smaller woman pulling her against her chest. Kathryn struggled against her.

 

“Your father died. Justin died. When you sought security with Mark Johnson he abandoned you after Voyager was lost to the Delta quadrant. Those you loved most left you. Kathryn, I will not leave you.”

 

Janeway spun in the Borg’s grip and pounded furiously on her chest as tears flowed freely.

 

“Damn you!! God damn you!!” Sobs forced their way past her command mask.

 

“I will not leave you, Kathryn. I will never leave you…”

 

Janeway collapsed, sobbing against the young woman. Seven tightened her arms and held her close, gently rocking her and repeating over and over “I will not leave you…I will never leave you…”

 

Gradually the sobs subsided and Janeway regained control of herself. She felt emotionally drained and physically exhausted. Gently, she pushed herself away from Seven and felt the arms that held her release their grip. She looked up at the young woman before her.

 

“You don’t fight fair…”

 

“I am not trying to fight you, Kathryn. I am trying to love you. Would you walk with me? Please?”

 

Janeway nodded her agreement and the two women walked off the terrace and onto the rocky shore of the lake.

 

“Seven, your comments about my life…even if they’re valid…and I’m not saying they are…but even if they were, Starfleet forbids Command Officers from fraternizing with crew members. What you want can not be.”

 

“I believe you are mistaken, Captain.”

 

“Why do you say that?”

 

“I have spent every free moment of the last three weeks reviewing Starfleet regulations. I believe you have misinterpreted them.”

 

“How so?”

 

“You have stated repeatedly that we cannot have a romantic relationship because Starfleet prohibits it. That is incorrect. What Starfleet prohibits is co-habitation of unmarried officers on the same ship. And there is a regulation governing romantic relationships between officers and enlisted crew.”

 

“How does that apply to us?”

 

“I am not in Starfleet, Captain. The closest designation which applies to my position on Voyager is that of civilian consultant or contractor. And there is no regulation prohibiting command officers from fraternizing with civilians. Even those under their command.”

 

“The rule may be unwritten, Seven, but it is applied by Starfleet brass nonetheless. Command Officers, especially captains, should not engage in romantic liaisons with members of their crew.”

 

“Captain, I would suggest to you that those rules apply only in the Alpha quadrant where the average deployment lasts two years. Even deep space missions rarely last over five. We are in the Delta quadrant; 30,000 light years from Earth. Our mission, barring the appearance of an anomalous wormhole, will last considerably longer than that. Starfleet cannot expect its command officers to forego personal relationships on missions lasting twenty years or more. It is not only unreasonable but unhealthy. Doing so will affect the command efficiency of the ship in the long run.”

 

“Nevertheless, when we do finally reach Earth, I will be held accountable for my actions. There have been too many instances where we’ve had to violate Starfleet protocols and directives to survive out here. I will have to answer for all of them. This one I can control. I won’t violate it.”

 

“Even if it means the difference between fifteen years of loneliness and fifteen years of happiness?”

 

“Loneliness is a part of command. I will deal with it.”

 

“What I am trying to convince you of is that it is not necessary to do so.”

 

“Seven, we’re just going around in circles. I’m tired; it’s been a long and stressful day. If you don’t mind, I’d like to return to my quarters.”

 

“As you wish, Captain. I will accompany you.”

 

The two women walked back along the shoreline in silence. They mounted the terrace and Seven released the seal on the holodeck doors. In the turbolift, Seven finally spoke.

 

“I have heard the crew speak of you in many ways, Captain. One thing I have never heard used to describe you is ‘afraid’. I do not understand why you are afraid to embrace happiness.”

 

“Seven, for the umpteenth time, I am not afraid. Starfleet forbids it.”

 

“And I have just explained to you why Starfleet does NOT forbid it. Why will you not even consider that point of view?”

 

“Because it will affect the command of this ship. I cannot risk that.”

 

They stepped off the ‘lift on Deck 3 and walked slowly toward the captain’s quarters.

 

“You are a proven captain; competent and capable. Why do you think a relationship would affect your command of Voyager?”

 

“The crew would be impacted.”

 

“When the crew believed that we would marry on Ma’altara Prime they were enthusiastic in their approval. What has changed since then?”

 

Janeway shook her head as she keyed in the entry code for her quarters.

 

“Seven, thank you for dinner. I’ll talk to you tomorrow.” The door whirred open.

 

“Kathryn, why won’t you listen to your heart?”

 

“I’m sorry, Seven. What you want…it just can’t be.” She turned and entered her quarters.

 

Without thinking, Seven took a step following her. She reached out and grabbed Kathryn’s arm, spinning the smaller woman around to face her then grasping her elbows to draw her nearer. Janeway’s eyes opened wide in surprise. Seven’s sparked like a transporter beam.

 

“That is your head talking! What does your heart tell you?”

 

Kathryn sagged in Seven’s grasp, head down, chin on her chest. She felt slight movement and then warm breath on her cheek.

 

“What does your heart tell you?” The barest whisper in her ear.

 

Barriers dropped in the wake of turbulent emotions. Kathryn Janeway’s heart sought the courage to reach out for what it so desperately wanted. Hesitantly, she raised her head and gazed into those glittering blue eyes.

 

“To love you,” she whispered.

 

Seven’s heart leapt at the words. She lowered her lips toward Kathryn and paused, a whisper away. The choice must be Kathryn’s. Their futures hung on that simple fact.

 

Janeway knew why Seven hesitated. She knew it was up to her. For the first time in her life, Kathryn’s heart forced aside Starfleet duty, the memory her father, the ache of abandonment, the pain of loss. Her heart summoned all its courage and she closed that infinitesimal distance, bringing her lips to Seven’s, setting a new course, this time guided forward not by stars, but by her heart.

 

Seven gently drew her into an embrace and her arms circled the taller woman’s neck. Time seemed to stop as they kissed. Soft, magical kisses warmed her, then trailed a path across her jaw toward her ear. Finally, the whisper she longed to hear. “I will love you forever, Kathryn.” A poem, a prayer, a promise.

 

Simmering, melting kisses that shot bolts of electricity through her as Seven’s lips opened and her tongue gently sought entrance.

 

Searing, molten kisses that left her knees rubbery and stole her breath. Trembling, she clung to Seven, unable to find mooring in the whirlwind surrounding her. Seven solved her difficulty by sweeping her up into her arms and carrying her to the bedroom. Janeway spent the brief trip kissing up the elegant neck, finally pressing her lips to the starburst implant by Seven’s right ear. The answering shudder told her everything she needed to know about the sensitivity of Borg implants.

 

At the bedside, Seven released her legs and held her close as she slowly slipped back onto her feet. Sevens lips descended to the sensitive spot just below her ear. Feather-light kisses and touches of her tongue caused Kathryn to moan aloud. Sure hands opened her uniform tunic and slipped it off her shoulders. They broke their kiss as Seven lifted her turtleneck off and swiftly unfastened and removed her bra. Strong hands flowed over her ribs and down her sides to the top of her uniform trousers. Seven knelt before her as she eased off her boots and slipped trousers and panties down Kathryn’s legs, helping her step out of them. As Seven’s eyes traveled slowly up the length of her, Kathryn felt a fluttering of nerves. Still on her knees, Seven wrapped her arms around Kathryn’s hips and laid her cheek against her belly.

 

“I have found perfection. It is you, Kathryn. You are perfect. So beautiful…” She gracefully rose to her feet and pulled Kathryn close into her arms. Their kiss deepened as Seven’s hands explored the flat planes of her back, stroking downward to caress the lushness of her hips.

 

Kathryn was overwhelmed with the need to feel Seven against her; not through clothing but warm skin to skin. She broke the kiss and dropped to her knees to help Seven out of her shoes. As she rose to her feet again, her hands moved to the closure of Seven’s jeans and opened it. Eagerly, she tugged the shirt tails free of them. Her trembling fingers had managed to open the first buttons of the shirt when Seven, in her impatience, seized it and ripped it open, scattering buttons around the room. Kathryn removed the lacy bra and moaned as Seven’s full breasts came free. She yanked down on the jeans and underwear; they pooled at Seven’s feet and she kicked them aside as she stepped out of them.

 

Then they were in each others arms. Kathryn’s senses flooded with exquisite softness and warm metal as Seven pressed against her. Seven kissed her throat, exploring Kathryn's satin skin with gentle wonder, her hands tender in their caresses. Somehow, they were on the bed in each other’s arms; hands wandered freely, discovering each other. Kathryn kissed Seven’s neck, inhaling her unique scent only to have Seven bring her lips to hers again. Seven’s hands were warm and slow on her and she kissed her way randomly down Kathryn’s body. She heard Seven’s muffled whisper, “So beautiful…so wonderful…” as gentle hands caressed her breasts followed by impossibly soft lips. Seven kissed them, long slow kisses, the sweet stroking of tongue on nipples and Kathryn surrendered to the pleasure, softly moaning.

 

She arched under those hands and lips, encouraging her lover with gasps and soft touches. Seven’s hands slid down her body, overwhelming her. She could hear the change in Seven’s breathing, sense the excitement in the light, rapid breathing. Seven’s hand cupped, fingers gently, wetly caressing. Kathryn trembled at the touch, unable to breathe as she felt Seven's lips descend down her belly. Seven’s fingers stilled for a moment, then Kathryn felt her lips on the inside of her thigh. Seven moaned, a low rapturous sound, as she gazed at Kathryn’s heated sex. A sob was wrenched from Kathryn’s throat at the first touch of Seven’s tongue; she felt as if her bones would dissolve. Long fingers swirled in moisture and gently sought entrance as Seven’s lips drove her toward the summit. Kathryn’s hips writhed as her excitement grew. Her body was taut and trembled, she could form no coherent words as passion built. Her hips moved in erratic then urgent rhythm. Her breathing quickened to ragged gasps. For a moment her body stilled, then exploded in orgasm. When her quivering eased, Seven pressed one more lingering kiss on Kathryn’s center, gently removed her fingers and softly kissed her way back up Kathryn’s body, enfolding the smaller woman in her arms. She nuzzled Kathryn’s neck and murmured her name over and over as Kathryn trembled against her, heart hammering.

 

Languid minutes passed as they reveled in the warmth of each other. When Kathryn felt Seven draw back, she raised her head and looked into the impossibly blue eyes of the woman she loved.  She saw all the love in the universe looking back at her. Seven smiled her small smile.

 

“I love you, Kathryn.” Her hand gently touched Kathryn’s cheek.

 

“Oh, my darling, I love you too. So much.” She turned her face into the hand and kissed the palm. She caught her own scent on the fingers. Slowly, she leaned forward and kissed Seven deeply, her tongue lightly tracing the younger woman’s bottom lip tasting herself. She felt rather than heard Seven’s breath catch in her throat and eased her tongue between the full lips. Seven gasped at the contact, and Kathryn gently pushed her onto her back. This is her first time…go slowly…don’t rush her. Her hand slid along Seven’s ribs and tentatively eased onto her abdominal implant, softly caressing. Seven stiffened at the touch.

 

“Am I hurting you, darling?”

 

“No, it does not hurt. But you do not have to touch me there. I know it must be…difficult…for you…it is…not human, it is...Borg…”

 

Kathryn propped herself on her elbow and gazed down at Seven with all the love in her heart.

 

“Oh love, it’s part of you. There’s no difficulty…I love you…every bit of you. You are so beautiful…so strong. I love the way you feel against me…the way ALL of you feels against me. I love touching you….Knowing your incredible strength is covered by your incredible softness…I love to feel you under my hands…” She punctuated her speech with kisses along Seven’s throat and shoulder as her hand lightly brushed along the metal bands that formed the abdominal implant. She traced a line of kisses down Seven’s upper chest to her breast and ever so softly kissed the hardening nipple. Her tongue was a feather as it caressed the hard nub. Seven’s inarticulate sound of pleasure emboldened her; her other hand eased down to stroke the side of the opposite breast as she took the swollen nipple into her mouth, sucking greedily.

 

Seven thought her cortical node might short out under the onslaught of feelings that were coursing through her. Kathryn’s lips and hands on her breasts made the muscles of her stomach clench and breathing difficult. She felt moisture at the juncture of her legs, could not hold still. Her hands stroked over Kathryn’s back and shoulders, occasionally tangling in the auburn hair. Kathryn lazily kissed her way to the other breast, her hand moving to warm the abandoned one. Seven was sure she would pass out from lack of oxygen; she felt dizzy and light-headed. A powerful throbbing between her legs grew steadily stronger as one of Kathryn’s hands stroked the bands across her abdomen and then eased downward to caress the thatch of blonde hair. Slowly and softly the fingers sought her center and spread the moisture there. Seven thought she might explode from the intensity of the feeling.

 

“Please….Kathryn…inside…please…”

 

Kathryn raised her head at the sound of the hoarse whisper.

 

“Seven, look at me.” Seven struggled to focus on the face of her beloved.

 

“This is your first time, love. What I’m going to do might hurt. You need to tell me if it does, darling.”

 

Please god, let me be gentle enough. Don’t let me hurt her. Let me be what she needs.

 

Slowly, gently she pressed her finger against the resistance until it gave way. Seven gasped and moaned as Kathryn pressed inside. Kathryn kissed her way across the abdominal implant, gently stroking the bundle of nerves with her thumb. She eased between Seven’s legs and replaced her thumb with her lips. Seven moaned and arched off the bed, hips bucking. She reached down and held Kathryn’s head against her. Slowly, Kathryn brought her to the edge. As the tension inside her grew, Seven carefully removed her left hand from Kathryn’s head and moved it to the pillow beside her, palm up. She could no longer speak, her body was suffused with pleasure.

 

“Sweet… God, you taste so sweet…” Kathryn murmured against her. Seven’s senses were engulfed, overwhelmed. A short, sharp cry burst from her lips as the powerful orgasm flooded through her. Janeway held  her hips and didn’t break contact until her spasms subsided. Then she kissed her way back to Seven’s face, now wet with tears. She wrapped her arms around the young woman and gently kissed them away. Seven burrowed her face into Kathryn’s neck as she tried to slow her breathing.

 

“Why the tears, love? I didn’t hurt you, did I?”

 

“No, Kathryn, you did not hurt me. I just…it was…I have no words to describe how wonderful you make me feel.”

 

“I do know, darling. You made me feel the same way just a little while ago.”

 

“Now I know why it is called ‘making love’. The person you love is the most important thing…”

 

“Yes, love. Your partner is the most important part.”

 

They lay cuddled together, kissing softly for what seemed an age. Hands touched softly, lips met and melded. Seven eased over onto her back, pulling Kathryn with her. She pulled Kathryn close and pulled her head onto her shoulder, her hand softly stroking Kathryn’s arm. She felt a small shiver run through the older woman.

 

“Are you chilled, Kathryn?”

 

“Just a little, love. I’ll be all right as long as I stay close to you.”

 

Seven gently pulled her arm from under Kathryn and sat up. She swung her legs over the side of the bed and walked to her jeans on the floor. She retrieved something from the pocket and returned to the bed. This time, she pulled the covers up and tucked them around the two of them as Kathryn snuggled into her arms once again.

 

“What did you get from your jeans?”

 

Seven held up her hand. The chain with the two rings dangled from her fingers. Kathryn eyed them with a soft smile on her face. Seven gazed at her intently.

 

“Do I need to ask you again, Kathryn?” she murmured.

 

“No, darling, you did it beautifully the first time. I don’t need to hear the question again. My answer is the same. Yes.”

 

Seven unfastened the chain and the rings dropped into her palm. She slid the gold band with it’s diamond back onto Kathryn’s left ring finger. Kathryn took the wider gold band with the blue stone and did the same for Seven. That finished, they settled back into their embrace; warm and secure in the softness of their bed and each other’s arms.

 

“Seven?”

 

“Hmmm?”

 

“Why did you take your hand off my head right before…well, right before you…” She felt the chuckle rumble through Seven’s chest.

 

“I was losing control and I did not want to risk hurting you. I was afraid my Borg hand might damage you.”

 

Kathryn kissed the starburst implant on her cheek and lightly ran her tongue over it.

 

“That was very thoughtful of you, darling. Is this something we’ll have to be concerned about?”

 

Seven shuddered as that warm tongue slowly caressed her implant.

 

“If you continue to drive me out of my mind with pleasure, then, yes, it is something we will have to be concerned about.”

 

Janeway continued to kiss the starburst. “Hmmm. Maybe B’Elanna can rig something on the bulkhead for you to grab. I certainly don’t intend to stop making love to you any time soon.” One hand drifted lazily down to Seven’s breast and fondled gently.

 

“Captain, may I ask what your hand is doing?”

 

“Exploring. I’m an explorer. That’s what we do in Starfleet, you know.”

 

Seven laughed as Kathryn rolled on top of her and began to kiss her thoroughly.

 

“And now I believe I need to begin a study of the vaunted Borg endurance….”

 

“Indeed? You will not be disappointed with the results.” Seven rolled them over until she leaned over Kathryn.

 

“I won’t?”

 

“No. You won’t.” Her mouth came to Kathryn’s breast.

 

“Oh God….”

 

With that, they laid the foundation of their life together: love, laughter and passion.

 

 

“Darling?”

 

“Mmmmm…what?”

 

“You know I never disturb you when you’re busy…a little lower please…oh, yes…right there…I never disturb you, but…what time is it?’

 

Seven did not stop kissing that wonderfully sensitive spot beneath Kathryn’s ear as she responded.

 

“It is 0542 hours.”

 

“Mmmmm…we…have…mmmmm…to think about…getting up, sweetheart…”

 

“I do not wish to get up…” The kissing continued.

 

“Oh God, neither do I…but we have to eventually. I’m sure the entire crew knows we had dinner together last night. I would rather not have them all see you coming out of my quarters this morning.”

 

Seven’s eyes twinkled as she regarded her love.

 

“I believe the crew is intelligent enough to realize what we were doing last night, Kathryn.”

 

“I know, but that doesn’t mean we need to rub their noses in it, darling. I have to keep some shred of command dignity.”

 

The kisses resumed.

 

“You did not have much command dignity last night…”

 

“Mmmmm…that’s different…you’re going to be my wife…I’m not expected to have dignity with you…oh, God…”

 

Kathryn shivered with the feeling of Seven’s kisses and the memory of the previous night. Never before had she surrendered totally to a lover. Never before had she felt such passion. Never before had she begged a lover as she had last night. Never before had she trusted so completely. Never before had she felt secure and safe and loved enough to do so. She burrowed closer to the glorious body holding her.

 

“Mmmmm…Seven…darling…please…we have to get up…”

 

Seven sighed heavily and pouted. It might work…

 

“You’re adorable when you pout. But it won’t work…we have to get in the shower.”

 

Seven brightened at those words.

 

“Together? It would save time…”

 

Now it was Kathryn’s turn to sigh.

 

“Somehow I don’t think this is going to be terribly efficient. But I suppose one of the reasons to have a spouse is to scrub all those hard to reach places. Come on…”

 

Janeway’s statement proved to be true and it was indeed some time before they emerged from the shower, both smiling.

 

Seven toweled off quickly and began to dress. She realized that getting back to her quarters might cause some talk as her shirt only buttoned to slightly below her bra. When she tucked it in her jeans it only gapped worse. Janeway emerged from the bathroom wrapped in a towel and chuckled.

 

“That’s the down side of being too impatient, darling. Try un-tucking it and tying the front tails in a knot.”

 

Seven decided that a bare midriff was worse than just the un-tucked shirt and left it. She kissed Kathryn one more time and turned for the door.

 

“I will see you at the senior staff meeting, Kathryn…Captain.”

 

Just as she reached the door, she heard Kathryn call her name, turned and was delighted by her fiancée flying into her arms clad only in a bath towel.

 

“I just need a few more kisses to hold me until the staff…”

 

Seven would have chuckled, but she was too busy kissing Kathryn. Unfortunately, as she wrapped the smaller woman in her arms, she broke the beam of the door controls and the door to Kathryn’s quarters whirred open to reveal Chakotay and B’Elanna walking down the corridor.

 

Voyager’s First Officer and Chief of Engineering were treated to the sight of their Astrometrics officer passionately kissing their captain who was wearing only a rather fetching towel. Chakotay’s jaw dropped but B’Elanna didn’t miss a beat.

 

“Good morning Captain, Seven. Lovely day, isn’t it? Shall we hold the ‘lift for you, Seven?”

 

Kathryn buried her face in Seven’s shoulder and shook with silent laughter. Seven could feel a hot flush move up her neck.

 

“Yes. Thank you. That would be…acceptable.”

 

Kathryn kissed her quickly and murmured “You’re on your own.”

 

“Coward,” whispered Seven with a smirk.

 

“You betcha…now go.” And Kathryn gave her a soft shove out the door. As it closed she shook her head. “Command dignity…right,” she muttered to herself and turned back to the bathroom.

 

Seven squared her shoulders and walked down the corridor to where Chakotay and Torres were waiting for the turbolift. By this time, both wore huge grins.

 

“It certainly is a beautiful morning isn’t it, Commander?”

 

“Yes indeed it is, Lieutenant. And it was a lovely night too. Did you sleep well last night, Lt. Torres?”

 

The ‘lift arrived and all three entered.

 

“Where to, Seven?”

 

“Cargo Bay two.”

 

“Commander, I slept extremely well last night, thank you. How about you, Seven? Did you sleep well last night?”

 

“Quite well, Lieutenant. Thank you.” This delivered in a clipped, even tone.

 

Torres was relentless.

 

“And the captain, did she sleep well too?”

 

Seven glared at her.

 

Chakotay chimed in. “Yes, Seven, did the captain sleep well?”

 

The doors of the turbolift opened and Seven found herself seized by a mischievous imp. She turned as she exited the ‘lift, cocked her cortical implant nearly to her hairline and answered them with a small smile.

 

“Yes, the captain slept well last night….She did not sleep for very long….But she did sleep very, very well.”

 

She turned on her heel and strode off toward the Cargo Bay to the sound of their howling laughter.

 

 

When Janeway left the turbolift and walked onto the bridge, she was greeted with Harry Kim announcing loudly, “Captain on the bridge!”

 

Now why did he do that? We don’t use that much formality…what’s going on?

 

She looked around at the Alpha shift bridge crew. Each and every one of them (with the exception of Tuvok) had a big, silly grin plastered on their face.

 

“Good morning, Captain!” they said in unison.

 

Oh God, they already know. This is NOT going to be good. This is not going to good at all…

 

“Good morning, everyone. Let me get some coffee and I’ll join you in a moment.” She headed for her ready room.

 

“Coffee, black.” she requested of the replicator.

 

Mug in hand, she sat behind her desk and tried to summon the strength to face the teasing she knew awaited her on the bridge. Sighing, she knew there was no avoiding it. She rose and headed for her command chair.

 

Chakotay stood and moved to his chair as she sat down.

 

“Lovely morning isn’t it, Captain?” said her first officer.

 

“Yes, it is indeed a lovely morning,” she replied, chuckling.

 

“Can’t remember when I’ve seen such a nice morning, can you Harry?” queried Chakotay.

 

“No sir! This is the nicest morning I can remember too, sir.”

 

“I agree, sir!” chimed in Lt. Nicoletti, smiling broadly. “It’s the nicest morning in a long time.”

 

“I’ve gotta agree, it’s a wonderful morning!” Tom Paris chipped in his two cents worth.

 

“It is indeed a nice day,” said Tuvok, doing his part.

 

Janeway put her face in her hands and shook her head.

 

“You know, on a beautiful morning like this one, we should announce…I don’t know…maybe a BIG party…”

 

“Great idea, Commander!” seconded Tom.

 

“What kind of a BIG party could we announce, I wonder?” mused Chakotay. “Do you have any ideas for a BIG party, Captain?”

 

Janeway threw her hands up in the air. “Enough! I surrender!”

 

The bridge dissolved in laughter. Chakotay reached over and clasped her hand.

 

“Kathryn, we’re all delighted for you and Seven. It makes us glad to see you so happy.”

 

“Thank you, Chakotay. Thank you all.”

 

“Now, about that big party….”

 

“It’s a little early for that kind of thing, don’t you think?”

 

“I don’t know, that’s a pretty large diamond that’s back on your finger. I think we should start making plans now.”

 

Janeway groaned. “Give us a chance to get used to the idea, will you? Where are the morning reports? Don’t you all have things to do, or should I start passing out additional assignments?”

 

Still chuckling, the bridge crew settled down to their jobs. As Janeway reviewed the overnight reports, she thought how fortunate she was to have this crew. This group of strangers, of adversaries, had come together into a family. They would stick together, and they would return to their home, no matter how long it took. The thought of their loyalty made her heart skip a beat and her eyes tear slightly.

 

Chakotay noticed. “Kathryn…?”

 

“It’s nothing, Chakotay. Just thinking how lucky I am to have this crew. I need to review a couple of things before the staff meeting. I’ll be in my ready room.”

 

When she walked into the conference room for the meeting, the first thing she noticed was a distinct flush on Seven’s face and those same silly grins on everyone’s face.

 

Looks like I wasn’t the only one they gave a hard time.

 

“OK, everybody. Let’s get started. Mr. Neelix? Are we disturbing you?”

 

Neelix looked up from the padd on which he had been busily working.

 

“I apologize, Captain. I was busy organizing wedding plans. I’d like to discuss some ideas with the staff…”

 

“Perhaps later when we’ve covered the important things. Now, anybody have anything to add to the weekly reports from yesterday?”

 

The usual result of that request was a spirited and lengthy discussion of factors affecting the ship and crew. Today, it was greeted with silence.

 

“Has there been anything of note that we need to discuss since Monday’s meeting? B’Elanna? What about Engineering?”

 

“Everything’s fine. Operating at peak efficiency.”

 

“Operations?”

 

“We’re good, Captain.”

 

“Security?”

 

“Nothing to report, Captain.”

 

“Helm?”

 

“We’re good to go, Captain. The Astrometric charts have all been programmed in and our course is set.”

 

“Astrometrics?”

 

“Updated scans will be uploaded by noon, Captain.”

 

“Medical?”

 

“Sickbay is unoccupied and open for business, Captain.”

 

“Does anybody have ANYTHING?”

 

Silence. Neelix sat at the far end of the table beaming.

 

Janeway knew when she was beaten. She sighed noisily.

 

“Yes, Mr. Neelix…”

 

“Captain, I’m assuming you’ll want to wear your dress uniform for the ceremony. Seven, will you want to wear a traditional wedding dress or perhaps that stunning Ma’altarean uniform of yours? And since the captain will be one of the stars, who is authorized to perform the ceremony?”

 

Talk broke out all around the table. Janeway looked at Seven and they smiled at each other.

 

“Neelix? If we’re going to make these monumental decisions this morning I’m going to need to be fortified with a lot more than coffee. Is anyone else interested in breakfast?”

 

“I could go for some banana pancakes!” said B’Elanna with enthusiasm.

 

“Waffles!” said Tom.

 

“All right, then. Let’s adjourn this fiasco to the mess hall.” Everyone rose and began filing out the door, talking excitedly. Seven hung back and waited for Kathryn.

 

“Were they brutal, darling?”

 

“No more than usual, Kathryn. B’Elanna was most enthusiastic in her teasing.”

 

Janeway laughed. “They’re excited for us. I suppose we should let them enjoy themselves. Maybe then they’ll calm down and we can get back to being a starship again. Try to be nice to them in the mean time, won’t you?”

 

“I will comply, Captain.”

 

“Don’t assimilate B’Elanna if she teases you.”

 

“I will comply, Captain.”

 

“Don’t rip anyone’s arm off and beat them with it.”

 

“I will comply.”

 

“OK then, let’s get some breakfast and plan our wedding.”

 

“Kathryn?” Seven reached out and pulled her into her arms.

 

“Yes, darling?”

 

“Unlike your previous relationships, this will NOT be a long engagement.”

 

Kathryn’s eyes twinkled in merriment.

 

“I will compl…” she began.

 

The rest was lost in a kiss.

 

 

The End

 

Back to FanFic