Title: Everything Disclaimers: Paramount owns anything and everything associated with Voyager and her characters.  I just enjoy playing with them and shall make no money from this. This story depicts women who love women and aren’t afraid to show it.  That means sex.  If you can’t deal with that, I believe Barney is playing on someone’s television from the last century.  If you are too young or this is illegal where you live, leave now.  Oh, yeah.  The character of Lt. Rain Masters is all mine. Spoilers: Too many episodes to mention, with the exception of “Imperfection” and “Human Error” Archive: Perfect Misfits for sure.  All others, please ask. Rating: Ch. 1-10, R, later chapters, maybe NC-17; a T/7, J/f story Chapter 11 “Regeneration cycle complete,” came the feminine tones of the computer.  Seven opened her eyes and began to step out of her alcove, but found her progress halted.  Looking down, she saw her heart’s desire curled up on top of her feet, leaning her head against her legs.  Seven’s gaze softened at the sight.  She did not know what the diminutive half-Klingon was doing there, but that did not make the surprise any less pleasurable.  However, Seven firmly believed that her little Chief belonged in bed.  That decided, she knelt down and picked B’Elanna up.  It was a strong measure of just how exhausted the lieutenant was that she did not waken during the entire trip from Cargo Bay 2 to her quarters. It was just as Seven was taking off her shoes that B’Elanna woke to find herself lying in her bed in her tank top and pants.  “Seven?” mumbled the engineer. “Shhhh, B’Elanna.  Go back to sleep,” whispered the ex-drone. “I came to ask you out for a nutritional supplement,” B’Elanna whined, as she began to sit up. Seven gently pushed her back down, amused at the Klingon’s terminology.  “B’Elanna, you need to rest. You did not awake the entire time I carried you through the ship.” “You didn’t,” gasped B’Elanna, eyes wide, and mouth agape. “Yes.  I did.  But you need not be embarrassed.  We only passed the children and Ensign Adair from the science lab.  Icheb said to give you a message if you woke.  Something about ‘perhaps next time?’  Do you know what he meant?” B’Elanna looked at Seven with open affection, her fatigue making it difficult for her to suppress the emotion.  “Yeah.  I was going to ask you to dinner before I went to sleep.  I just wanted to spend some time with you.  I’m sorry I upset you by working so hard.  I didn’t mean to.  I don’t ever want to upset you, and I know why you couldn’t come to me about it.  I just want you to know that I understand, and I’ll do better.  I just wanted to help,” she ended up whispering the last. Seven cupped B’Elanna’s cheek with her fully human hand while picking up the half-Klingon’s right hand with her Borg-enhanced left.  “B’Elanna, Kathryn made me realize that though I must suppress them, my feelings for you are strong.  I will continue to need longer and more frequent periods of regeneration to counteract the damage caused by these emotions.  Before, I did not have to worry.  I was not in love with you then.  That has changed.  Now that I wish to spend so much time in your presence, the ‘inhibitor’ is working as it was designed.  I do not, however, wish to limit the time I spend with you.  You will come up with a solution.  I have confidence in you, your promise, and your honor.  But I will not tolerate you damaging yourself or your baby while in pursuit of that solution. Your continued function is necessary for my survival, and I do not mean because of your engineering skills.” B’Elanna stared at Seven, wanting to throw herself into the Borg’s arms.  Instead she said, “If I didn’t think it would cause irreparable damage, I would kiss you right now.”  Seven just quirked her eyebrow.  “I love you, Seven.” Seven sighed in relief.  Though she could already feel the headache building, B’Elanna’s pronouncement made her happier than she had ever been in her life.  Her stoic expression did not change, but she knew that B’Elanna could read the happiness through her eyes. Indeed, B’Elanna could see the beautiful blue dancing with delight at her declaration, so she said it again. “I love you, Soch.”  When Seven raised both eyebrows in surprise, B’Elanna got nervous. “Is it okay if I call you that?” Seven was amused at her love’s nervousness. “Yes, B’Elanna.  I like it.” The Chief Engineer gave a small sigh of relief.  She didn’t plan to call the ex-Borg by the Klingon word for seven.  It just sort of came out.  Her relief was short-lived when she heard what Seven said next. “I need to return to my alcove, B’Elanna, so I cannot join you for a nutritional supplement.” The small engineer panicked. “Seven, I’m sorry.  I didn’t mean to rush into anything.  Geez, Torres, what were you thinking-” she continued to ramble to herself, fumbling for her shoes. Seven reached out to shut the Klingon up.  Placing her hand over B’Elanna’s mouth, Seven said, “Bang’wI, hush.  You have done nothing.  I have wanted to say these things to you for so long.  Regeneration is but a small price to pay.  You have given me everything, with your words.  You will sleep, and I will regenerate, and tomorrow will be another day.”  Walking towards the outer door, Seven called over her shoulder, “yIQongchu’, B’Elanna,” and walked out the door. The half-Klingon fell back against the bed and smiled at the ceiling.  Placing her hand on her swollen tummy, she murmured to her unborn child, “we will sleep well, won’t we, love?”  B’Elanna closed her eyes and fell into a deep slumber. NOTE:  yIQongchu’ is Klingon for “sleep well” Chapter 12 Janeway looked at the chronometer in her Ready Room.  0900.  “Computer, what is the status of Lieutenant Rain Masters?” “Lieutenant Rain Masters is not on duty.” “Janeway to Lt. Masters.” The computer responded, “A privacy seal has been engaged on Lt. Masters’ comm. badge by order of the Chief Medical Officer.” “Computer,” began Janeway, “locate Lt. Masters.” “Lt. Masters is in her quarters.” It had been three days since Janeway read Masters’ personnel file, and she was anxious to discuss it.  Lt. Masters said they would talk in two days, but when yesterday passed without contact, Janeway became concerned.  She decided a trip to sickbay was in order. When she arrived in sickbay, she found the Doctor, Seven of Nine, and Lt. Torres deep in discussion.  All of them were leaning over a large blueprint of what the captain could only assume was the cortical node.  “Good morning.  Making any progress?” “Captain!” smiled the Doctor, obviously pleased about something.  “Indeed, it seems as though our brilliant Chief Engineer has stumbled across something.” Janeway glanced at her crewmembers, noting Torres’ embarrassed but pleased look and Seven’s perpetual stoic passivity.  Upon closer examination, however, she could see that Seven was a great deal less distressed than she was a couple of days ago.  Something’s happened, there, thought Janeway.  Pushing that aside for the moment, she addressed the situation. “Lieutenant, what did you find?” asked the Captain. “Captain, the Borg design incorporates a series of synaptic relays that criss-cross eighteen separate sets of neural pathways.  Captain, these sets are autonomous and separate from each other.” Janeway put a hand to her forehead, rubbing at the already forming headache.  “Lt., that sounds like it makes the surgeries even more complicated.” “On the contrary,” the Doctor broke in, “with Lt. Torres’ assistance, the individual pathways can be rerouted to not intersect with the synaptic relays, thereby avoiding the situation in which the cortical node detects emotion and feelings.  It’s really quite an amazing discovery.  It changes the entire outlook of the surgery.” “Surgery?  As in just one?” inquired Janeway.  “I thought you said it would take several surgeries to fix the problem.” Seeing her captain’s look of frustration and confusion, Seven spoke up.  “That is what makes the discovery so important, Captain.  By dissecting a cortical node on the holodeck, B’Elanna, I mean, Lt. Torres discovered that each set of neural pathways is independent from the others.”  “The most dangerous factor to surgery prior to this discovery was the fear that if any one pathway was tampered with, a cascade breakdown of all the neural links in the node would occur---leading to a complete shutdown of all higher brain functions and the subsequent failure of the cortical node.  Now we know there will be no cascade breakdown, as all of the pathways operate autonomously.  Each pathway can be rerouted without fear of the synaptic relays detecting the change,” finished Seven. “There is one obstacle, Captain,” interjected the Doctor. “Oh?”  Janeway raised an eyebrow. “Lt. Torres would have to complete the surgery.” Before she could speak, the Doctor continued. “The rerouting of the neural pathways is too complex for even my enormous restorative capabilities.  I hate to admit it, but this is something only the best engineer can pull off.”  Janeway could tell that this unnerved the young half-Klingon, though she appeared pleased at the Doctor’s compliment. “B’Elanna” began the Captain, “you seem uneasy about this.  Is this something you can pull off?” The pint-sized warrior stood with her arms folded, staring at the floor while she shuffled her feet.  Finally she looked up at the Captain and the Doctor before landing her gaze on Seven.  Speaking to Janeway but still staring at Seven, the lieutenant answered in a whisper, “My concern isn’t professional, Captain.  It’s personal.” The Doctor, having been informed of the progress in Seven and B’Elanna’s relationship by Seven---to explain her increased need for regeneration---was not surprised by the pronouncement.  “That’s the complication, Captain.  The lieutenant’s personal stake in this shoots all objectivity out the proverbial window.” The Captain stared at the two women, who were still gazing at one another in adoration, and asked softly, “B’Elanna, is this something you can overcome?  And Seven?  Will you be comfortable with B’Elanna performing the surgery?” Seven answered first.  “There is no one I feel more comfortable with, Captain.  Were this strictly a medical concern, I would prefer the Doctor perform the procedure.  As it is an engineering problem, I would like only the best engineer to perform the surgery.  That happens to be Lt. Torres.  How can I be anything but comfortable regarding the situation?” Janeway gave a wry smile and said, “Well, that answers that question.  B’Elanna?” The diminutive half-Klingon gave a small shudder, and then straightened to her full height.  After taking a deep breath, she firmly stated, “I can do it.” Janeway gave a nod, but vowed to discuss this with the engineer later.  “Then you three need to set up a series of simulations in the holodeck.  I want this well-practiced and well-planned before we try it for real.” All three answered with a chorus of “Yes, Captain’s.”  Lt. Torres and Seven left to set up the holodeck. “Doctor, there is another matter I came down here to discuss,” continued Janeway. “Certainly,” replied the EMH. “What can I do for you?” “I wanted to find out how Lt. Masters was.  She and I had agreed to meet yesterday, but she didn’t show up.  The computer stated that you hadn’t released her back to duty yet.” “Yes, well, it seems the good lieutenant sustained injuries more severe than usual this time,” responded the Doctor somewhat sarcastically. “What do you mean, this time?” growled the Captain. “Captain,” sighed the Doctor unnecessarily, “I really cannot discuss it with you.  Suffice it to say it’s a condition of her physiology.  I’m aware she told you she was Energetic, but I’m not the one who can tell you exactly what that entails.” “Fine,” retorted Janeway. “When do you anticipate her being returned to full duty status?” “Not for another three days, minimum.  Her body can’t be healed the same way others’ can.” “Understood.  Thank you for your candor, Doctor.  And good work on making progress with the cortical node.” The Doctor shrugged his holographic shoulders.  “As much as I would enjoy taking credit for that, the simple truth is that it was Lt. Torres unwavering study of the design specs coupled with her experimentation in the holodeck that led to the discovery.  She has a great deal invested in this.” “Yes, she does.  I’d like you to keep an eye on her, Doctor.  If the strain looks like it’s getting to her, call me.”  After receiving his nod of acquiescence, Janeway headed back to the Bridge. Upon returning to the Bridge, she invited Commander Chakotay and Lt. Commander Tuvok into her Ready Room to brief them on the latest developments on the cortical “inhibitor.”  Chakotay seemed pleased and promised to check up on the ladies periodically throughout the day.  Though he hid it well, Janeway knew Tuvok well enough to know he was pleased at the positive prognosis for Seven of Nine.  He felt very paternal towards her. Both officers left the Ready Room lighter in spirit. Janeway settled back in her chair to go over some reports that had piled up while she was in sickbay. Amazing, thought Janeway, the woman was simply amazing.  Kathryn put down the personnel file she had been rereading for the third time.  The departmental reports she had been reading lost their appeal after an hour, and she found herself once again contemplating Lt. Masters’ personnel file. After Lt. Masters had returned to the holodeck three days ago, Janeway found her personnel file and read what was, indeed, a level 10, Captain’s Eyes Only missive.  It gave Rain’s true identity as one Rain Killian Masters, of the House of Killian.  It listed her as an Energetic of the 9th Power, whatever that meant.  Janeway would be sure to ask about that at their next meeting. What the file didn’t say was even more impressive than what it did say.  It told nothing about Rain, herself.  Not where she was born, who her parents were, when she was born, nothing.  All it gave was her Starfleet record from the time she entered the Academy.  That record was what currently had the good Captain still in awe three days later.  Janeway knew that the fact that Rain was Energetic automatically made her file Level 10, but she had hoped it would have been a little more forthcoming with information.  Apparently, thought Janeway, they are so secretive you have to find out what you want to know directly from them.  She only hoped the lieutenant would speak with her about it. The sheer volume of awards, medals, and citations the lieutenant has received in the time she’s been with Starfleet was, in short, phenomenal.  Two Silver Swords, one Medal of Honor, the Starfleet Medal for Distinguished Service.  The list went on and on.  The lieutenant had a right to be annoyed when I questioned her service, thought Janeway. So it came as a surprise later that day, when Janeway got a call over the comm. system. “Masters to Captain Janeway.” Kathryn looked up from the PADDs scattered over her desk, tapped her comm. badge and said, “This is Janeway.  Go ahead Lieutenant.” “Captain, I wanted to apologize for not meeting with you yesterday-“ Janeway interrupted, “That’s okay, Lt.. The Doctor informed me that you require a longer recuperation period than you originally thought.  There’s no hurry.  I realize you weren’t quite yourself the other day.  I just want to see you healthy again.”  She didn’t say just how badly she wanted to just see the Lieutenant again. “Well, umm, Captain?  Did you read my file?” “Yes, Lieutenant, I did.” Something in her tone must have alerted Rain because she responded with a chuckle in her voice. “Have some questions, do you?”  Rain’s laughter was contagious and Janeway had to join in.  “As a matter of fact, I do.” Rain began to laugh harder.  “I thought you might.  I thought I’d let you know, I may be unfit for duty, but I can still meet with you.  If you want, that is.” “Are you sure you’re up for that?  I don’t want you setting back your recovery any,” replied Janeway, concern coloring her voice. With a smile in her tone, Rain said, “Captain, my injuries are physical.  As long as you don’t plan to beat any answers out of me, I should be okay.” Smiling herself, Janeway came back, “I think I can manage to keep the beating to a minimum.  Why don’t you meet me for dinner?  My quarters, 1900 hours.” “Ummm, sure.  That sounds fine, Captain.  1900 hours it is.” “Great.  See you then.  Janeway out.” Oh, boy, thought Kathryn, did I just make a date?  Surely she won’t think that. Will she?  Do I want her to?  “Oh, God,” said Kathryn aloud.  Then she let her head fall to the desk. Meanwhile, six decks down, Rain was pacing through her quarters.  Is this a date?  Surely not.  I can’t be that lucky.  Just dinner, then.  Okay, what do you wear to dinner with the Captain?  Shit.  It hardly matters.  My wardrobe is limited to what won’t bother my injuries.  Damn it all to hell and back, again!  Way to impress a girl, Masters.  Oh, well.  You want the Captain to fall for who you are, right?  Oh, geez.  This is going to be a disaster. Rain looked toward the ceiling and said aloud to herself with a wry smile plastered on her face, “Well, ene’mi’, you certainly planned that well.” NOTE:  ene’mi’ is Energetic for “My King.” Chapter 13 At 18:57, Rain pressed the chime to the Captain’s quarters.  Looking down at her attire, she grimaced.  No way to impress the Captain dressed in loose fitting khakis, an oversized Oxford dress shirt, and 20th century sandals known as Tivas.  But her options were limited.  She really wanted to be in shorts and a T-shirt, but that was completely unacceptable.  So she settled.  Everything else in her wardrobe hurt to wear.  She let out a sigh just as she heard the Captain say “Enter.” She stepped through the doors and stopped short.  She could do nothing but stare at the vision before her.  She had seen the Captain in casual clothing before, but nothing had prepared her for the simple elegance standing before her.  Dressed in a simple green blouse and black trousers, Rain thought her the most beautiful creature she had ever seen.  Of course, she’s thought that since she first laid eyes on the Captain, but it somehow seemed more acute at this moment.  The most fascinating aspect of the vision in front of her lay at the bottom of the package.  The Captain was barefoot.  That delighted Rain to no end. “You’re early,” smiled Janeway. “Oh, damn,” replied Rain. “I so tried to be late for a meeting with the Captain.  I can leave and try again, if you’d like?”  Rain grinned as she said it. “Cheeky, aren’t you?” Janeway was grinning, as well.  “Come in and have a seat.  Can I get you something to drink?”  Janeway walked over to the replicator as she asked. “I’ll just have a glass of water, Captain.” “Lieutenant---Rain.  I didn’t ask you here in an official capacity.  I thought we could discuss this as friends.  Yes, as Captain, I want to know all about an Energetic crewmember on my ship, but as a woman, I’m simply fascinated by the concept.  With that in mind, you can call me ‘Kathryn.’” Rain lifted both eyebrows practically off her forehead.  This is certainly progress, Rain.  Don’t screw it up.  “Thanks, Kathryn.  Informality will make this tale a whole lot more palatable.” Kathryn watched Rain move towards the sofa, noticing her slow progress.  Rain couldn’t quite hide her wince of pain as she sat down.  Kathryn approached her with a glass of water in one hand and a glass of Chardonnay in the other.  Taking a seat in the chair across from Rain, Kathryn handed her the water and said quietly, “Rain, we don’t have to do this now.  You’re obviously in pain-“ She was cut off as Rain interrupted, “I’d be in the same pain in my quarters, Kathryn, and I’ve waited years to have this conversation.” “All right.  What do you say to eating first and seeing where the conversation leads us?” “Great idea.  I hate to tell you, Kathryn, but part of being Energetic is eating large quantities of food.  I eat all the time.  I have to.” “Well, I can’t have you collapsing from starvation, can I?” Kathryn grinned over her shoulder as she went to the replicator again.  She met Rain at the table with two steaming plates of a savory chicken and stir-fry vegetable dish.  “I hope you don’t mind.  I took the liberty of asking the Doctor if you had any dietary restrictions.  He seemed to find that question amusing. He just laughed and said, ‘no.’” Rain began to laugh, too.  “Kathryn, there’s nothing I can’t eat.  My physiology is such that I have to eat all the time. If I had food restrictions, my physiology would be compromised.  I can eat anything.  Granted, there are some foods I don’t like, but chicken stir-fry isn’t one of them.”  She grinned again at Janeway. They sat down and began to tuck in to the meal.  After a few bites, Kathryn asked, “Why do you have to eat so much?” Rain swallowed and appeared uncomfortable for a second.  She looked sheepishly at Kathryn for a moment before replying; “This is the part where people either become fascinated or repulsed.  It’s one of the reasons Energetics don’t reveal themselves.  Most people on board just think I’m a pig.  Or that I have a fast metabolism. If they only knew!” “Rain, you don’t have to tell me, but I can promise not to be repulsed.  As for fascinated?  Well, too late. I already am,” she stated softly, looking shyly across the table. Rain’s eyes opened widely and a huge smile appeared on her face.  She put down her fork and stood up.  No way could she eat while Kathryn looked at her that way.  It made her want to pull the Captain into her arms and kiss the breath right out of her.  Slow down, ene’, she’s not ready for that part of the explanation.  Walking to the viewport she thought about how to put her thoughts into words. Kathryn watched Rain leave the table and wondered if she said too much, too soon.  The look on Rain’s face before she got up said ‘no.’ But Kathryn was confused.  It must have shown on her face because when Rain turned around and saw the confusion she said, “It’s okay.  I just have a hard time eating and talking about myself at the same time.  Also, I’m kind of nervous about your reaction to some of the things I have to say.” “All right,” said Kathryn, prepared to do whatever she could to make Rain feel more comfortable. Rain asked a question of her own. “Kathryn, what did you learn about Energetics when you searched the database?” Kathryn looked surprised. “How did you know I searched the database?” “Kathryn, you’re the Captain of a Starfleet Intrepid class vessel.  You didn’t get that position by being stupid.  I know you value information, which is why I’m sure it was the first thing you did after reading my personnel file.  Am I right?” “Did I say ‘cheeky?’  I’m sure I meant ‘impertinent,’” said Kathryn with a grin. “Yes.  You’re right.  I did check the database.  Since I’m sure you know every gigabyte of information in the database regarding Energetics, you know exactly what I learned.  Next to nothing.  Why is that?” Pacing slowly behind the sofa, Rain offered a small smile to Kathryn.  “We’re a secretive species.  We’ve had to be.  It’s a little known fact that about a thousand years ago a third of the entire species ended up on Earth, following an explosion in subspace, which destroyed the Energetic homeworld.  The other two-thirds ended up scattered across the universe. The Energetic inhabitants on Earth discovered it was best to hide their differences, for fear of persecution.  Think about what Earth was like a thousand years ago, Kathryn.  Humans were not as tolerant back then.  Sure, the Energetics could have easily overpowered the population at that time in Earth’s development.  But we’re not like that.  We have strong beliefs.  The least of which is one rule that must never be disobeyed.  ‘An it harm none.’  We cannot use any feature which distinguishes us as Energetic to cause harm to others.” Kathryn had been sitting quietly, listening intently to the story unfolding.  But she had to interrupt.  “What characteristics do you possess that could cause harm to someone?” she asked with a crinkled brow. Rain smiled gently at her and said, “I’m getting to that.” Kathryn returned her smile and replied, “Sorry.  Don’t mean to rush you.”  Though, secretly, she did want to skip to the part where Rain talked about herself.  But she had to admit she was captivated by the story. Rain continued her tale.  “So they lived within the population.  Life on Earth really wasn’t all that different than life on the homeworld.  They just couldn’t be Energetic in public.  And they waited.  They waited for Earth to play ‘catch-up’--- until Earth reached the stage in its development where the founders thought they could begin to reveal themselves.”  Rain shivered and wrapped her arms around herself, feeling chilled all of a sudden. Noticing this, Kathryn got up and walked over to Rain.  She took her by the hand and led her to sit on the sofa, where she took a small quilt and placed it around the Energetic’s shoulders.  Rain smiled her thanks, as Kathryn sat down beside her, and continued, “About 450 years ago, the first Energetic was tortured.  She was beaten in a town square in Avignon, France.  The problem was that they couldn’t kill her.  So they kept torturing her, claiming she was a witch, a heretic.  So much was based on religion back then.  They left her hanging in the square, until another Energetic took her down.  She didn’t die.  They moved to the mountains and lived in solitude.  They still live there.” “Wait a minute.  You said that happened 450 years ago,” said Janeway, somewhat astounded. “Yes.  Kathryn, you were close.  The other day.  When you said you had heard Energetics were immortal.  We’re not immortal.  We’re nearly immortal.  We can be killed, but only in a few very specific ways.  The easiest way is also the most heavily guarded secret to the Energetic way of life.  But I’m getting ahead of myself.” Kathryn looked like she wanted to interrupt, but she held herself in check.  She didn’t want Rain to stop. Rain took a deep breath.  “The founders decided to retreat unto themselves and continue to live as they could.  They managed to live nearly as they would have on the homeworld.  They found their mates, they had children, they taught their children the ways.  When Starfleet began, very few Energetics joined, at first.  However, one Energetic took it upon herself to join Starfleet.  She told them about herself and our people.  She was an exemplary officer.  Many, however, were afraid of her.  So she, too, was persecuted.  Persecuted!  Kathryn, this was at a time, when tolerance was the norm!  So those at Starfleet Command set up the protocols designed to protect the identity of any Energetic that wanted to join.  Apparently, near immortality, coupled with our other idiosyncrasies, makes us frightening.  So we hide.”  She whispered the last. Kathryn reached up to wipe away the tear that fell from Rain’s eye.  She took Rain’s hand and held it, quietly letting her regroup.  Rain stared down at the hand that held her own.  So strong, she thought.  I’ve waited so long to hold your hand, Kathryn.  Aloud she said, “I’m so tired of hiding.”  Kathryn’s heart ached for the young woman.  She reached over and brought Rain’s head down onto her shoulder.  She offered solace in a warm, tender hug. NOTE: ene’ is Energetic for “king” Chapter 14 After a few minutes, Rain lifted her head from Kathryn’s shoulder.  “Thanks,” she whispered. Kathryn just nodded and held Rain’s hand.  “You okay?” she asked gently. Rain nodded.  “There’s more,” she stated, wondering if Kathryn wanted to continue.  At Kathryn’s nod, Rain began again. “I think this is where I tell you what it means, exactly, to be Energetic.”  Rain took another deep breath and let it out slowly. “First, we are creatures of pure emotion.  It encompasses all that we are, everything we do.  You’re probably wondering how Tuvok and I are so close,” she said with a smirk. “He realizes it makes me a better officer.  Kathryn, when I say we’re creatures of pure emotion, I mean our physiology feeds on emotion.  It manifests itself as pure energy.  Hence the name.  It’s pure coincidence that we look just like Humans and ended up on Earth.  But though we may look like Humans, the energy we harness inside our bodies could power a galaxy.”  She paused to let Kathryn absorb this information. Kathryn looked at Rain and tilted her head to the side.  “I’m not sure I understand,” she said. “I’m not sure I can explain it so you can.  It might be easier if I show you my medical file. Or parts of it, anyway,” she smiled conspiratorially.  “Okay,” replied Kathryn, “but what does that have to do with the program you were running in the holodeck?  And what was causing you to be in that condition in the first place?” Rain grimaced and appeared slightly embarrassed at the question.  This had Kathryn intrigued.  Rain stood up to pace.  Though walking was painful, there was no way she could talk about the Transcendence while Kathryn held her hand.  “It has to do with the Energetic mating instinct,” she began as she walked over to stand before the viewport.  Staring unseeingly at the passing starfield she continued, “An Energetic becomes aware of their mate the minute she’s born. It doesn’t matter where in the universe she is, an Energetic immediately senses her.” Kathryn had to interrupt again. “Her?” she questioned. Rain looked over her shoulder at her Captain.  “Yes.  Oh, sorry.  I forgot to mention that all Energetics are female.  Because we are creatures of emotion, male Energetics do not survive the first year of maturity.  It was discovered that they simply were unable to handle the sheer volume of emotion harnessed within our bodies.” She turned back to the starfield.  “The minute the mate is sensed, the mating instinct begins.  It may take five years, or it may take 500 years for an Energetic to actually encounter her mate, but when she does, she knows her immediately.  Kathryn, we sense our mates the minute we meet them.  It is instinctive.  Our auditory acuity recognizes her heartbeat, our olfactory acuity recognizes her scent.”  Rain shook her head.  “Again, I’m getting ahead of myself.  The minute we become aware of our mate, regardless whether or not we’ve met her, the mating instinct begins.  What that means is that every two years, we go through something called the Transcendence.”  Rain rubbed her hand over her face, wincing when she encountered cuts and contusions.  She did not want to continue with this part of the explanation but knew she must. “The Transcendence is the most vulnerable, emotional, and intense aspect of an Energetic’s life.  If an Energetic has found her mate, has already completed the mating rituals and is actually ‘mated,’ the Transcendence is completed with the mate’s assistance.  If an Energetic is not yet ‘mated’ she must complete the Transcendence alone.  Only she can’t actually ‘Transcend’ until she’s ‘mated.’  Don’t ask about that, yet, Kathryn.  Trust me when I tell you that you are not ready to hear about what it means to ‘transcend.’  Each Energetic has to figure out for herself the best way to go through a Transcendence when ‘unmated.’” Rain turned to look at Kathryn to see how she was processing all of this.  Kathryn had a spellbound look on her face that begged Rain to continue.  Rain just smiled.  Kathryn has no idea, thought Rain.  Kathryn stood up and walked over to Rain unsure whether Rain would be receptive to her close proximity.  When Rain didn’t object, Kathryn took her hand and whispered, “You’re amazing.  What you manage to hide behind that sense of humor and intelligence is unbelievable.”  Kathryn could feel herself getting more emotionally involved as the evening wore on and was, by now, completely enamored with the young Energetic.  The fact that Rain was a raving beauty didn’t help, either.  Didn’t hurt, of course, but it certainly didn’t help her maintain objectivity.  At 5’8, Rain was built.  Broad shoulders and a lanky body hid a muscularity that Kathryn distinctly recalled from their meeting in the Ready Room.  Kathryn found the deceptive strength sexy as hell.  Curly black hair that hung just below those broad shoulders was made for Kathryn’s fingers to run through.  She hoped she got the chance.  But it was the eyes that did it.  Piercing green that looked clear into Kathryn’s soul.  The tawny skin begged for Kathryn’s caress. Rain could not take it anymore.  The look she was getting from Kathryn, the close proximity, breathing in Kathryn’s scent, hearing her heartbeat, pushed her over the edge.  She leaned down and pressed her lips to Kathryn’s.  She let out a groan when she felt Kathryn yield to her touch. Kathryn felt Rain’s tongue press gently against her lips and opened them, allowing the deep, intimate caress.  She touched her own to Rain’s, the two dancing together.  Rain pulled back slightly to gently bite down on Kathryn’s lower lip, pulling at it, before returning to explore the treasures within.  The kiss grew hungrier as Rain brought her hands up to hold Kathryn’s face in her gentle grasp.  She left Kathryn’s mouth to take in a gulp of air, whispering, “enge’mi’, and then pressed her lips to her Captain’s jaw, placing lingering kisses along the jaw line up to her ear where she took the delicate lobe in her mouth and began to gently suck. Kathryn gasped when Rain took hold of her ear.  Her fingertips were tingling so badly they were numb.  She reached up to put her arms around Rain’s shoulders and heard Rain let out a gasp of pain.  Leaning back to saw a grimace of pain wash over Rain’s features.  “I’m sorry,” Kathryn whispered.  “I forgot about your injuries.”  She let go of Rain’s shoulders, and Rain immediately felt the loss.  So Rain also let go of Kathryn, letting her hands move from Kathryn’s face to her shoulders, down her arms until she ended up holding both of Kathryn’s hands in her own. “It’s okay,” Rain whispered back.  In a normal tone of voice, she continued, “I should probably finish the explanation, anyway.”  Kathryn nodded and led Rain back to the sofa.  When she tried to sit down with her, Rain just shook her head.  “I can’t sit next to you and finish this.  I need a little distance, just to get perspective.”  Kathryn nodded to indicate that she understood.  So Rain sat in the chair opposite the sofa. “I was going through the Transcendence when you found me in the holodeck.” Kathryn just stared at Rain.  She opened her mouth to speak, but no words came out.  After several tries, she finally managed to say, “No wonder you were ready to kill me.” Rain laughed.  “You have no idea.  Kathryn, I’m not sure how far you want me to go with this.  It gets very personal from here on.” Kathryn looked down at her hands, rubbing them as they continued to tingle.  “I guess that’s up to you.  I feel as though I should tell you that I’m developing some very strong feelings where you’re concerned.  I know I’m very attracted to you, but it’s more than that.  I don’t want to make you uncomfortable, but this is very new to me.  I haven’t allowed myself to feel this way for so long-“ “Kathryn” interrupted Rain, a smile on her face, “I understand.  More than you know.  But I’m afraid that if I tell you the rest, it’ll scare you off.” “Oh, I don’t think you have to worry about that,” murmured Kathryn. “I’m in pretty deep already.” Rain took a deep breath and bit the bullet.  “However deep you’re in, Kathryn, I’m in deeper.  I told you that Energetics sense their mates immediately upon contact.  If an Energetic’s mate is another Energetic, the result is simple.  They mate.  They recognize one another instantly.  If, however, an Energetic’s mate is not another Energetic, it gets a little complicated.  The Energetic knows the outcome is predetermined, but the mate does not.  Remember the absolute cornerstone of Energetic ideals?  ‘An it harm none?’  Well, the Energetic can do nothing to force her mate into falling in love with her.  She just has to wait for it to happen.” Rain took another fortifying breath.  Gathering the courage to continue she asked, “Enge’mi’, do you know the significance?  Me going through the Transcendence?” Kathryn stared off into the distance, going over in her mind all that Rain had told her, putting the pieces together.  Her eyes got wide and her mouth fell open.  “You’ve sensed your mate.” Rain nodded and waited for the outburst. Kathryn did not disappoint.  “But you-.  We-.  That kiss?  How-?”  Kathryn was confused, upset and disappointed. Rain did not allow Kathryn time to jump to the wrong conclusions.  “Kathryn, enge’mi’, remember when I told you when we sense our mates?” Kathryn, still dumbfounded, nodded and said, “You said as soon as they’re born.” Rain left her chair and crossed over to Kathryn.  Though it pained her, she knelt in front of her Captain.  “Kathryn,” she whispered, “I sensed my mate 44 years ago.”  She waited for the significance of that to sink in before continuing.  Grasping Kathryn’s hand, Rain asked, “Try to remember the Doctor’s response when you told him I was in your Ready Room.” Kathryn sighed and tried to focus.  Remembering the conversation in the Ready Room, she tried to remember the Doctor’s exact words.  When it finally came to her, the pieces of the puzzle dropped into place, and she froze.  “He said, ‘in her condition, she really can’t be in your Ready Room.’  Then he said, ‘you especially know whose presence your body can and cannot tolerate, physically, during this period.’ Oh, my God,” Kathryn finished. Rain rubbed Kathryn’s hands, waiting to see if Kathryn would accept or reject her. NOTE: enge’mi’ is Energetic for “my queen” Chapter 15 Kathryn looked up at Rain.  Her mouth opening and closing like a guppy.  “You- We- I’m your-“ she stuttered. Rain just had to grin.  It was so damn cute.  “Yes, enge’mi’, lei sono il mio, you are mine.” Kathryn had just about grasped the idea.  “I’m your mate?  I’m your mate.”  She sat in stunned silence. “Kathryn?” Rain queried, nervously.  “How do you feel about that?” Kathryn, still in shock, replied, “I’m your mate.” Rain was getting very anxious at this point. “Yes.  And I’m yours.” At that, Kathryn really looked at Rain.  “You’re mine.”  Rain nodded.  Kathryn very quietly said, “We’ve got a lot to talk about.”  All Rain could do was keep nodding. Seven watched B’Elanna poke at her dinner.  The half-Klingon was giving the dish a skeptical look, as though afraid it would jump off the plate.  Seven was amused.  When B’Elanna pushed the plate away without taking a bite, the former drone got up and walked over to the replicator.  When she returned, she set a plate of banana pancakes down in front of her little Chief.  B’Elanna looked up at her love and said, “Seven, you didn’t have to do that.” Seven sat with her arms folded across her ample chest and raised her implanted eyebrow.  “You need to eat, B’Elanna.  If you cannot consume what Neelix has prepared, you must eat something else.  As I know that you enjoy banana pancakes, I brought you banana pancakes.  Was it not appreciated?” The half-Klingon reached across the table for Seven’s hand.  Feeling the soft metal, she stroked her fingers across the top.  Picking up her fork, she dug into the meal. After swallowing, she replied with a twinkle in her eye, “It’s very appreciated, Soch.  It just wasn’t necessary.” Seven smiled back. “I disagree.  Finish your meal, my love.” They discussed the day’s events while B’Elanna consumed her dinner.  They spent the majority of the day setting up the holodeck program that would allow the Klingon engineer a way to practice the procedure that would change Seven’s life.  They had enlisted Lieutenant Paris’ and Ensign Kim’s help at one point, so as to get all the details perfect.  Accuracy was essential if B’Elanna was to pull it off.  Seven was worried about the engineer’s feelings about performing the surgery. “B’Elanna?” Seven began. B’Elanna looked up at Seven’s tone. “Hey.  What is it?” she asked her drone, taking her hand again.  They were walking back towards Cargo Bay 2. “Do you want to perform the procedure?” Seven asked. B’Elanna sighed.  She should have known this would come up.  “It’s not that I don’t want to perform it, bang’wI’, it’s just that I’m scared.  I don’t want to fail.  This is too important.”  She gave Seven’s hand a squeeze as they entered the Cargo Bay.  Seeing that it was empty, B’Elanna led Seven over to the alcoves.  “I don’t want to let you down,” she whispered. Seven wrapped her arms around the little half-Klingon.  Her little Chief.  She smiled into B’Elanna’s hair.  Her smile widened when she felt and heard B’Elanna push her nose into her neck and sniff deeply. Pulling back, she looked down at the one who held her heart.  “You cannot let me down B’Elanna.  You will do your best, and that is all that I require.” Hearing an annoying buzzing sound, both ladies jumped apart.  B’Elanna growled as she led Seven to her alcove.  When Seven was prepared to regenerate, B’Elanna walked over to the console to activate the cycle.  Looking up at her love, she said, “After I fix that node, I’m going to kiss the breath right out of you.”  Seven’s eyes widened.  B’Elanna smiled and said, “yIQongchu’, Soch.”  When she was certain the cycle was running smoothly, she left the Cargo Bay and waddled to her own quarters to sleep. Chapter 16 “Lieutenant, you must hurry!” cried the Doctor, as holographic sweat formed on his holographic brow.  He was hovering over Seven’s body, running his tricorder over her frantically.  Lieutenant Torres was standing off to the side, furiously inputting commands into the console in front of her. “Hang on, bang’wI’,” she whispered desperately.  Taking a neuro-optical tool to Seven’s cortical node, she spliced the two remaining pathways and diverted the critical synapses to another nerve center away from the ‘inhibitor’ relays just in time to hear the whining flatline of the heart monitor. “Lieutenant, we’re losing her!” urged the Doctor, adding pressure to Torres’ already overburdened shoulders. “I know, dammit!” she shouted back, frustrated at her failure.  “Come on, Seven, don’t give up.”  Her hands continued to reroute the pathways, careful to avoid intersecting the synaptic relays, but she was too late. “She’s gone,” stated the Doctor in a defeated tone. “God damn it all!” cried the engineer, throwing her instruments across the sickbay. “Computer,” interrupted Tom Paris, “freeze program.  Well, this certainly looks familiar,” he said wryly, looking at the Doctor.  He was referring to the simulations he had helped the Doctor and Captain Janeway run when trying to give Seven the cortical node of a dead drone after her own began to fail, several months ago.  In the end, it had been Icheb who had ‘saved the day,’ giving Seven his own cortical node. “Indeed.  Failed Seven of Nine Holographic Surgeries 101,” mocked the EMH.  “Why is it, Seven always dies on the holodeck?” he asked with curiosity. “Perhaps it is so that I do not perish during the actual event?” replied the drone, eyebrow cocked in humor.  Seeing B’Elanna pacing back and forth on the other side of the room, Seven excused herself from the two men and walked over to her.  “B’Elanna.” When the half-Klingon didn’t answer and continued pacing, Seven merely planted herself in B’Elanna’s path.  “B’Elanna.  Stop” she insisted, grabbing the engineer by the shoulders.  She started to continue but stopped when she saw the tears of frustration forming in her love’s eyes.  Instead she just pulled her little Chief into a hug, wrapping her long arms snugly around the tired body.  Feeling the engineer’s shoulders shake in a small sob, Seven began to whisper softly into her ear, “Shhh, tIq’wI’, it is all right.  I am right here.”  She continued to murmur nonsensical words until B’Elanna found control.  Stepping back, she eyed the lieutenant carefully before completely letting go.  “Why do you behave this way, B’Elanna?  It is only a simulation.” B’Elanna shrugged her shoulders and sighed.  Wearily rubbing her hands over her face, she said, “It’s still your body on the biobed, Soch.  And every time I fail, I see you lying there, knowing you won’t get back up.  It hurts,” she whispered.  Then her Klingon kicked in.  “Dammit, why won’t it work,” she hollered, throwing her hands in the air. The Doctor took that moment to break back into the conversation.  “From what I can tell, Lieutenant, the procedure is effective. We merely need to complete the process before Seven’s node deactivates itself.  Perhaps eighteen sets of pathways are too many for one person to reroute in such a limited amount of time.  Could we bring in another engineer to assist you?” “No.” B’Elanna and Seven replied at the same time.  Seven elaborated, “I would not feel comfortable with any other engineer involved in the process.” B’Elanna pointed out more objectively, “The work is too delicate for more than one set of hands anyway.” She shrugged her shoulders and lifted her head.  Putting a determined look on her face, she emphatically stated, “I’ll just have to get faster.  And practice makes perfect.”  As she prepared to start the simulation again, Seven stopped her. “Lieutenant, you have already run the simulation six times this day.  Each simulation lasted fifty minutes at the very minimum.  You require rest.  We can begin again tomorrow.” The engineer was frustrated and wanted to start on another simulation right away.  But hearing Seven refer to her by her rank indicated that her drone was tired and emotionally stressed. B’Elanna realized that the day must have been very trying for the former Borg.  For Seven’s sake, she relented.  “Okay, Soch.  We’ll start again in the morning.  Doc, what’s your best estimate for time on this procedure?” The EMH silently agreed that the women needed to take the rest of the day and evening off.  They had overworked themselves, yet again.  Had Seven not suggested it, he would have.  So he gladly answered the lieutenant’s question.  “I believe it will be necessary to complete the procedure in under 34 minutes, if the cortical node is to remain active.  Any longer and it will simply shutdown.” “34 minutes?  That doesn’t give me much time, does it?” sighed the half-Klingon. Seven began to lead her toward the exit, saying, “Then you shall need all the rest you can manage, correct?  You need to be ‘on top of your game,’ I believe is the correct phrase. Yes?”  B’Elanna stopped to stare at the drone. Tom burst out laughing at the look on B’Elanna’s face.  “She’s sure got you figured out, Lanna!”  Even the Doctor had to chuckle at how easily Seven manipulated B’Elanna into going off duty.  It seemed that the growing relationship between the ship’s Chief Engineer and resident Borg was having a positive impact on the both of them. Kathryn Janeway lifted a hand to her forehead to rub away the ache that had taken up permanent residence.  She could hardly concentrate on Chakotay’s departmental reports and requisitions. For his part, the Commander had noticed his Captain’s lack of concentration.  Since he was also her friend, he took it upon himself to find out what was bothering her. “Something on your mind, Captain?” Kathryn looked up at the Commander, realizing that he had ceased his report a few minutes ago.  With a look of chagrin on her face, she replied, “Why do you ask?  Just because I forgot you were in the room? Picky, picky, Commander.”  Chuckling at herself, Janeway realized she needed to talk to someone about Rain. Laughing, Chakotay was relieved to know she was receptive to his concern.  “Want to talk about it?” he asked in his gentle manner. “Yes, actually, I do.  I want you to be honest with me about something.  I was wondering how the crew might react if I began seeing one of their members, romantically. Dating, I mean.  Oh, hell, Chakotay, I’m probably already falling in love with her!” Chakotay raised his eyes in surprise.  Then he began to outright laugh.  He laughed so hard that tears ran from the corners of his eyes and he began to get a stitch in his side.  He was bent over, holding his sides when Janeway finally interrupted, “Commander?  Care to explain what’s so funny?”  She didn’t know whether to be amused herself, or worried. “Kathryn,” he gasped. “If you only knew!”  He wheezed in and out a few more times before finally settling back in his chair.  Seeing the anxious look on the Captain’s face, he relented, “Captain-Kathryn.  Permission to speak freely?” Seeing her nod, he continued, “From what I hear, the crew has been wondering what’s taken you so long?!  I mean, most of the people on the ship are engaged in some sort of relationship.  Of all the senior officers, only you, Neelix, and Tuvok aren’t involved with anyone.  Even Seven and B’Elanna have found one another.  Neelix is in unrequited love with Sam Wildman and Tuvok’s reasons are obvious, but you?  We’ve been wondering what was holding you back.  Starfleet regulations?  Who the hell cares?  Anyone who does can just call Starfleet.  We’re 35 years from the Alpha Quadrant.  Kathryn, most, if not all, of the crew just wants you to be happy.  Besides, when the captain’s happy, so is the ship!” He threw the last out with his finger pointed in the air. Kathryn’s eyes had begun to water towards the end of Chakotay’s narrative.  “I had no idea you all felt that way.  Thank you, dear friend.” Chakotay leaned across the desk to pat her on the hand, “Kathryn, we just want you to have what everyone deserves in life.  Someone to share it with.  Everyone else on board, myself included, has somewhere, someone we can go to.  To talk about how bad our day was, what new discovery we made, how one of our decisions caused the death of two crewmen.  Everyone on board has someone to lean on, except you.  You don’t have anyone to go to.  The crew realizes that.  And they wish you did.  So if you’ve found someone, I think the members of this crew would be delighted.” Kathryn stood up and walked around the desk.  Standing before Chakotay, she asked, “Permission to hug the Commander?” He grinned and stood up.  “Permission granted.  Be happy, Kathryn,” he whispered as he wrapped his big arms around his Captain and friend. “I think I can be. Now.”  She stepped back.  To Chakotay, she appeared as though an immense burden had been taken off her back.  And he supposed it had. “So?  Who is she?  Or do I have to guess?” he needled. Kathryn crossed her arms over her chest and leaned against her desk.  “Our second-in-command of Security,” she stated with a smile on her lips. “Lt. Masters?”  He gave a wolf whistle.  “Good catch, Captain!  She’s a beauty!” he teased. “Oh, you!” she gave him a swat on the arm and pushed him toward the door.  “Get out of my Ready Room!” “Aye, Captain.  My compliments on your taste!” he couldn’t resist one last dig. Kathryn sighed and sat back down at her desk.  Taste?, she thought. I’m not sure I ever stood a chance!  Kathryn took a moment to reflect upon how her evening ended yesterday. “Rain?” Kathryn began softly, lifting her hand to the lieutenant’s hair, tucking a strand behind her ear.  “You never told me why you have to eat so much.” Rain burst out laughing, dissolving the tension that had built up in the room.  Standing up, she moved to the opposite end of the sofa and sat down.  “I just tell you that you’re my mate, that I’m yours, and you want to know why I eat so much?”  She kept laughing as she settled back into a more comfortable position. Kathryn just smiled at Rain, which Rain took to heart.  She hoped it meant Kathryn was not averse to exploring a relationship with her.  The outcome would still be the same, but it would definitely take a whole lot longer.  Kathryn was her mate. There was no changing that.  But Rain really did not want to wait much longer.  Her need for Kathryn was already at unbearable levels. Kathryn continued smiling at Rain and said, “I want to know everything about you.  Especially now.  In light of what you’ve just told me.” “Fair enough,” replied Rain. “But do you think you could scoot over here a little?” Kathryn’s smile turned into a grin as she moved closer to the beautiful Energetic.  When she was snuggled up to the security officer, she looked up at her, “Well?” “Better.”  Picking up Kathryn’s hand in both of her own, Rain began to caress it as she spoke. “I have to consume greater amounts of nutrition because my body immediately turns everything I eat into energy.  It’s broken down immediately.  Seven’s not the only one on board without a digestive system, you know.  My body immediately converts everything into energy.  Everything.  No waste.” “Amazing,” murmured Kathryn.  She was having a difficult time concentrating on Rain’s words while her hand was being caressed in so sensual a manner.  “Okay.  A tough question, now.  Why was it necessary for you to be beaten during your Transcendence?” Rain sighed and leaned her head down to rest it against the top of Kathryn’s.  “Remember when I said every ‘unmated’ Energetic has to determine for themselves the best way to endure the Transcendence?”  When she felt Kathryn nod, she continued, “I discovered that the only way I could survive it was to pick a fight.  A really, really violent one.  And though it didn’t look like it when you saw me, I really was winning that fight.  I don’t suppose you noticed the six other Kazon lying around on the ground?  Each battle I engage in gets tougher and more physically challenging.  Kathryn, I can’t control my physical responses to you during the Transcendence.  It took all of my concentration not to pounce on you, both on the holodeck and in your Ready Room.  I’m sorry if that frightens you.” Hearing the note of worry in Rain’s voice, Kathryn sat up to reassure her.  “Rain, darling, you don’t frighten me.  Far from it.  Even when I didn’t understand it, you didn’t frighten me.  I was mostly concerned.  Rain, why did you wait so long to tell me all this?” Rain looked at Kathryn in disbelief.  “Kathryn, how would you have suggested I do that?  ‘An it harm none.’  I had to wait for you.  I am so very grateful that you are an impetuous, unorthodox, rule-bending, and arrogant Captain who had no problem overriding a medically sanctioned privacy seal.  I may not have been able to express it at the time, though you have to admit I wasn’t exactly myself, it was a huge break.  Otherwise we probably wouldn’t be talking about this now.” Kathryn acknowledged that with a tilt of her head, but couldn’t help but wonder whether she had just been complimented or insulted.  Gazing at Rain, she took note of the slumped shoulders and faint circles under brilliant green eyes.  “You’re tired,” she commented softly, her deep, husky voice seductive in the low lighting. Rain stared back at Kathryn and nodded, “A little.  I guess the topic wore me out more than I thought it would.  I was really nervous about how you would take it.” Kathryn reached up to stroke her thumb over Rain’s prominent cheekbone, avoiding a deep laceration.  “Why can’t the Doctor heal these?  Never mind.  You can tell me later. So?  Did I pass?” Rain nodded, smiling a dreamy smile.  She leaned over and gave Kathryn a soft kiss, nibbling gently until Kathryn let her in.  Sliding her tingling fingers into a thick mass of black hair, Kathryn moaned against Rain’s mouth.  Touching her tongue to Rain’s, Kathryn lost herself in the deep, intimate caress.  God, can she kiss, was all Kathryn could think.  After a moment, Rain pulled back.  “I’ve waited so long for this,” she whispered.  “I’ve needed you for so long.” Kathryn pressed a gentle kiss to Rain’s chin.  “I think I’ve waited all my life to feel this way about someone.  I certainly never felt this way with Justin or Mark.” Rain leaned further back and arrogantly replied, “Neither was your mate.  Of course you wouldn’t feel this way about them.  You could only ever feel this way toward me.  Don’t get that look in your eye. I’m not arrogant.  I’m Energetic.  And you’re mine.  Haven’t you ever wondered why you couldn’t actually marry Mark?  You were engaged to the man for three years, but couldn’t marry him.  Now you know why.  He wasn’t me.” Kathryn looked flummoxed for a second.  “No, he wasn’t.  But he’s my past, and you are my future.” Kathryn smiled as she remembered how she and Rain had shared a few more kisses before deciding to call it an evening.  She really did want Rain to get some rest.  After promising to see one another the next day, Rain left and returned to her quarters. Thinking of those promises, Kathryn smiled and tapped her comm. badge.  “Computer, locate Lt. Masters.” “Lt. Masters is in her quarters.” “Computer, is there anyone else in Lt. Masters’ quarters?” “There no one else in Lt. Masters’ quarters.” ”Janeway to Lt. Masters.” “This is Masters. Go ahead, Captain.” “How are you feeling, darling?” “Quite Energetic, Kathryn.” Kathryn snorted at the pun. “Cute, Lt., very cute.” “I try, ma’am.  I try.” “I was wondering if you would have dinner again with me tonight.  I promise to let you actually finish your meal.” “Are you asking me out on a date, Captain?” Kathryn couldn’t keep the grin off her face.  God, how she loved talking with this woman!  “I believe I am, Lt.” “Okay.  I accept. On one condition.” “Oh?  What’s that?” asked Kathryn, curiosity lacing her voice. “You go barefoot again.  I found it incredibly sexy.” “Why you-“ “Ah, ah, ah,” interrupted Rain, laughing. “Barefoot or no date.” “You win.  1900, my place,” she growled.  But she couldn’t quite keep the smile out of her voice. “Janeway out.” NOTE:  tIq’wI’ is Klingon for “my heart” Chapter 17 B’Elanna Torres was troubled.  Seven needed to regenerate more and more frequently, and that worried her.  Right after leaving the holodeck, Seven announced that she needed to regenerate for a short time.  She finished by calling B’Elanna “Lieutenant,” which the little engineer took as an indicator of how emotionally stressed her drone truly was.  So she found herself back in Sickbay that evening, looking for the Doctor. “Lieutenant, I thought you and Seven were taking the rest of the evening off?” scolded the EMH. “I’m not here about work, Doc,” replied the half-Klingon, somewhat distractedly. “What’s wrong?  Are you in pain?  Is my godchild all right?” he asked in a volley of questions, waving his tricorder over her, urging her up onto a biobed. Though she only wanted to talk about Seven, B’Elanna found herself perched on the biobed, undergoing an exam before she could utter so much as a protest.  But she found her voice soon enough.  “Hey!  Stop that!  I only want to talk with you about Seven.” The Doctor looked up from his tricorder and raised his holographic eyebrows.  “Oh!  Why didn’t you just say so?  Although I am detecting some anomalous readings from you.  Are you sure you’re feeling all right?” he asked with some concern. “I’m okay.  I haven’t been sleeping well, is all.  Nightmares.” “The surgery?” he inquired gently. “Yeah.  I guess I’m just scared.  I’m not worried that I’ll fail.  I mean, I’m a damn good engineer.  I’ll just practice that procedure until I can do it in the allotted time.  But, well….I’m scared for her.” “I see,” he replied.  “B’Elanna, your feelings of apprehension are natural.  You love Seven.  She’s sick.  You want to fix that.  It’s all perfectly understandable.  But if you continue to put pressure on yourself, with unreasonable expectations, you’ll only make yourself sick.  Have you been experiencing any tightness in your abdomen?” “A little.  Why?  Is the baby okay?” “She’s fine.  For now.  You need to take it easy, though.  All this added stress will eventually cause distress to the fetus, and that will cause distress to your drone.  My recommendations?  Work diligently on the simulations, but not fanatically.  Pace yourself.  And just let yourself focus on your love for Seven, rather than on your fear of what might happen.” “Thanks,” she said softly, a grateful expression on her face.  “But I’m worried about how much she’s been regenerating these last couple of days.  I checked the logs.  She’s been spending at least fourteen hours a day in her alcove.  Is that safe?” The EMH sighed.  He, too, was concerned about Seven.  She was, after all, his favorite patient.  She was his family, really.  “Right now, Lieutenant, it’s the safest place for her.  When she’s regenerating, her cortical node returns to its normal working state, building up its proverbial ‘anti-emotion’ walls,” he finished somewhat sarcastically.  “Falling in love with you has expedited her need for the surgery, but I don’t think she minds that at all and finds the extra regeneration time a small consequence to pay,” he smiled at the engineer. “Thanks, Doc.  And I’ll keep in mind everything you said.  See you in the holodeck tomorrow morning,” she added, leaving Sickbay.  She returned to her quarters to wait for Seven’s regeneration cycle to end. ********* Exactly 24 hours since the last time she stood there, Rain Masters found herself once again contemplating her Captain’s door.  Pressing the chime, she waited for the expected summons. “Enter,” she heard from the other side.  Stepping across the threshold, she was immediately engulfed in a warm embrace.  “I’ve wanted to do that all day,” purred Kathryn in her husky voice, her lips nuzzling Rain’s neck just below her ear. Rain gave an involuntary shiver as a low growl emanated from her throat.  Kathryn pulled back to give her a bemused look.  “How do you do that?” Rain abruptly pulled away with an embarrassed shrug.  “I don’t know,” she replied quietly, silently cursing her needs.  “You’re the only one who can make me do that.”  She turned to walk further away but was grabbed from behind, her progress halted. Kathryn wrapped her arms around the lean waist, feeling the taut stomach muscles twitching in response and rested her forehead between Rain’s broad shoulder blades.  “Hey.  I didn’t mean to hurt your feelings.  I wasn’t complaining.  I’m just curious.  Don’t be embarrassed about who you are.  I like who you are.  A lot,” she whispered.  “Besides,” she continued mischievously, “I find that growl incredibly sexy.” Rain’s shoulders sagged with relief.  She brought her hands up to rest on the arms around her waist.  Kathryn stepped away to turn Rain back around to face her.  “Let me look at you.  Been in a bar fight, I see,” she teased. Rain returned the gesture with her trademark grin, “Guilty.  Was fighting for my woman.” Kathryn was delighted at the banter.  Tugging Rain towards the sofa, she asked, “Did you win?” Before they could sit, Rain leaned in close to nip at Kathryn’s earlobe and whispered, “What do you think?” Kathryn’s knees turned to jelly, and she was forced to sit down.  “Oh, God, I think I’m out of my league.”  Pulling Rain down beside her, Kathryn fought to regain her equilibrium. Rain burst out in a fit of laughter.  “Ow! Oh, man!” she cried, holding her sides, ribs screaming at the strain, laughter continuing to bubble.  “Kathryn,” she gasped, “the look on your face!  And all I did was kiss your ear!  Oh, geez, this is gonna be so much fun!” Kathryn could do nothing but stare at Rain, bemused, wondering what was going on.  She waited for Rain to get herself under control and just continued to stare at the young Energetic.  “You’re so beautiful,” she stated, suddenly overwhelmed by the presence sitting beside her on the sofa.  That presence immediately ceased her laughter, catching the twin notes of awe and wonder in her mate’s smoky voice. “Kathryn,” breathed Rain.  Very gently, Rain took Kathryn’s face in her hands, rubbing her thumbs along the fine cheekbones, caressing the soft skin.  “I’m so glad you think so.  Though, in all honesty, I must point out that I’m not exactly at my best,” her response wry and amused, trying to lighten the mood. That brought Kathryn out of her stupor, just as Rain had intended.  “I’ve always been aware of your beauty,” said the suddenly shy Captain. “That’s natural, enge’mi’.”  Rain placed a small kiss between Kathryn’s delicate eyebrows.  “Your body knew mine, long before your heart and mind recognized it.  It’s instinctive,” she explained.  “Though not as distracting as my own instincts,” she pointed out wryly, poking fun at her overwhelming need to mate with Kathryn. Kathryn sat up suddenly as a thought occurred to her.  “Has this harmed you?  Being around me?  I mean, being around me for seven years and not being able to do anything about it?”  She was concerned that her blindness had unintentionally hurt the Energetic. Rain took the time to answer the question honestly, knowing that Kathryn didn’t want any platitudes.  “Not in the way you mean.  Physically, my body has needed yours for 44 years.  My way of dealing with that has always been fighting on a holodeck, punishing my body to purge the burn.  Then I met you, my mate, and the need for you intensified exponentially.  You have to understand something, Kathryn.  Whereas before I had no expectations, suddenly I was aware of how gorgeous, how intelligent, how absolutely amazing a creature my mate was.  It made the burn hotter.  But emotionally?  Mentally?  It hasn’t hurt me, so to speak.  But it’s really been a strain at times.  I expected that.  Of course, waiting seven years is a bit longer than the average Energetic usually has to wait for their non-Energetic mate to come to her senses,” she teased gently.  “But, then again, I’m not your average Energetic.  But I bet if you were to access my medical records, you’d find a drastic escalation in my injuries and recovery times following each of the four times I’ve had to endure the Transcendence since being aboard.” Kathryn reached for the closest of Rain’s hands, squeezing it gently in her own.  “I’m sorry for being so slow,” came her wry response, her mouth tilting in a smirk. Rain chuckled, “Not slow.  Stubborn.  And don’t deny possessing that trait,” she warned.  “I know better.”  She waited a few moments, and then teased, “Hey!” nudging Kathryn’s shoulder, “I thought you promised to feed me.” Kathryn took her turn with laughter.  Standing up, she dragged her love over to the table.  Still giggling, she said, “It wasn’t your stomach I heard growling earlier.” Rain joined Kathryn in laughing amusement, saying, “I don’t have a stomach, enge’mi’.  At least not like you think.  But it’s easy enough to tell if I’m hungry or need to eat.” “Really?” asked Kathryn, curiosity aroused.  “How?” Rain gave her an enigmatic grin and proceeded to demonstrate.  Walking up to Kathryn, she picked up one of the Captain’s graceful, and bare, arms and ran her hand back and forth over the top of it.  The delicate hairs that covered the fine skin rose straight up.  “Static electricity,” explained Rain.  After a moments pause, she continued in a whisper, “Remember what I am, enge’mi’.  Pure energy derived from pure emotion.” Kathryn finally took her eyes from her arm and focused her gaze on Rain.  Lifting an eyebrow, smiling, she murmured, “Neat trick.  Do you do parties?” Rain fell over laughing.  Again. Chapter 18 B’Elanna threw another PADD across the room and listened to its satisfying SMACK!, as it hit the wall.  Something wasn’t right, thought the frustrated half-Klingon.  Seven had finished regenerating one hour and eighteen minutes ago.  And she still hadn’t come to see the little engineer. ‘Maybe you’ve been pushing her too hard,’ needled a little voice inside her head.  B’Elanna pushed that thought right back out. “Computer, locate Seven of Nine.” “Seven of Nine is in Astrometrics.” “Is she on duty?” she growled angrily. “Seven of Nine is not logged as ‘on duty’ at this time.” Now she was stumped.  Then she had a burst of inspiration. “Computer, who else is in Astrometrics?” “Icheb, Azan, Rebi, and Mizoti are in Astrometrics,” came the dulcet tones. “Ah, ha!” cried the triumphant Klingon, jumping off the sofa.  She quickly left her quarters and headed for the turbolift.  “Deck 6,” she told the computer.  She heard a chuckle behind her.  Turning around, she saw Chakotay leaning against the wall of the ‘lift.  “What?” she asked self-consciously, her tone somewhat belligerent. “Oh, nothing,” he replied, still laughing.  “Did I miss the memo on the new uniforms?” B’Elanna looked down at herself and slapped her forehead in embarrassment, realizing that she forgot to put on her uniform jacket and shoes.  A now red-faced B’Elanna snarled, “I’m off duty.” “So I see,” was the response.  Chakotay eyed her tank top and bare feet with ill-concealed amusement.  B’Elanna just shook her head and hurried off the ‘lift when it reached her destination. Practically running to Astrometrics, B’Elanna was slightly out of breath when she hit the doors.  She was, after all, six months pregnant.  And really, just who had time for calisthenics?  Scanning the lab, she didn’t see anyone at first.  Then she heard them.  Soft murmuring coming from the dais in front of the work consoles.  Stepping to the other side of the workstation to see what was going on, her mouth dropped open in astonishment.  There on the floor lay four Borglings and one beautiful Borg, heads resting on large, overstuffed pillows, staring at the viewscreen.  On the viewscreen was a starfield.  B’Elanna didn’t know what or which starfield, but there they were, just staring at it.  They were speaking softly, in almost hushed tones.  She listened to them for a minute. “There is, what appears to be, a…..castle…..in sector six,” murmured Azan with a touch of uncertainty. “That is not a castle,” objected Icheb.  “It is a horse.” “I know of no horse that looks like that,” Rebi pointed out. “Perhaps it is a targh,” remarked Mizoti. “I have never seen a targh,” responded Icheb, “but we could ask Lieutenant Torres when we see her.” Seven, who had remained silent throughout this exchange, broke in without taking her eyes from the viewscreen.  “You could ask her now.  Lieutenant Torres, does the star formation in sector six look like a targh?”  Receiving no answer, Seven asked, “Do you require assistance, Lieutenant Torres?” B’Elanna, who had finally managed to assimilate the vision of Borglings hunting for constellations, let out a very undignified “eek!” at Seven’s question. “How did you know I was here?” she asked, after she had recovered. Seven and the children had, by now, sat up and were looking at the engineer expectantly.  Icheb also managed to look amused. Seven gave B’Elanna a fond look and said, “I always know when you are near.  Borg-enhanced senses.”  She lifted an implanted eyebrow at her little Chief. “Yeah, that explains that you knew someone was here, but how did you know it was ME?” she challenged. “Normally by listening to the stride of your walk, though I must admit to being confused this time.  Your bare feet ‘threw me.’  I do, however, have alternate ways of distinguishing you from others.”  Seven looked triumphant. “And those would be?” encouraged the half-Klingon, oblivious to the rapt gazes of the juvenile peanut gallery observing their banter with interest. Seven gave her a look that said ‘you do not want to go into this now,’ but continued when B’Elanna raised her own eyebrow.  “Very well, Lieutenant.  The back of my neck tingles when you are near. That happens with no other individual I have encountered.  Your scent is unique and pleasing, and I can smell you even before you enter a room.  My favorite way, however, is merely to listen for the sound of your hearts beating.  I can do so from a great distance, and it brings me comfort.  My heart heard yours the instant you stepped off the turbolift.  But, again, I was confused by your bare feet for all of point zero-two-eight seconds.  Why are you barefoot, Lieutenant?”  Seeing the tears in B’Elanna’s eyes, Seven knew she had won the challenge. Not caring that she had an audience, B’Elanna took a deep breath and softly said, “I love you, Soch.” Mizoti took all of this in with distinctive Borg intensity.  Then she turned to Seven and said, “Seven of Nine, you told us that Voyager was your collective.  Does that make us your ‘unimatrix?’” B’Elanna choked back a laugh.  Seven merely responded with her trademark lifted eyebrow.  “No.  That makes you my family.”  Her voice had become tender as she looked around the room at everyone she loved. Icheb looked at B’Elanna and winked.  B’Elanna smiled back when he remarked, “Then I expect our ‘family’ will soon add two new members,” giving the engineer’s stomach a smile. B’Elanna and Seven traded looks.  At Seven’s nod, the half-Klingon sat down on the dais next to her love and addressed the group.  “We haven’t discussed it because we need to get this ‘inhibitor’ thing cleared up, first.  But you now know I love Seven.  But what you may not know is that I love you guys, too.  Truth be told, I fell for you first, way before I fell in love with Seven.  Look, except for Icheb, the rest of you can’t really talk about these things, yet.  But since we’re all sitting here, I’ll say it for you.  Seven loves you guys.  She loves you like you were hers.  And you are.  You’ve never been safer than when you are with her.  Seven loves me, too.  I’m not really sure why, but I’m grateful.  And honored.  I don’t have the words that she does, but I know my hearts belong to her.  You guys love Seven.  You can’t say it yet, but your actions prove it.  She recognizes it but can’t acknowledge it.  Yet.  I’ve already figured out how to overcome the ‘inhibitor.’ I just have to practice until I’m fast enough.  And when I am, I’m gonna fix Seven.  And then I’m gonna fix you, Rebi.  And you, Azan.  And you, Mizoti.  You guys are everything to me.  Hoch’wi’.  My Everything.” Icheb and B’Elanna were openly crying.  Seven, Azan, Rebi, and Mizoti were trying desperately not to.  The awful buzzing was heard, echoing around the lab.  B’Elanna looked around the room and asked, “Ok, who feels dizzy?”  She received four guilty looks.  Glancing at Icheb, she said, “Help me get them home.  Everyone could use an extra long regeneration tonight, I think.” Before they left the lab, Seven remarked, “B’Elanna, you did not tell us why you are barefoot.” The little engineer was keeping a watchful eye on the dizzy twins’ progress down the hall. Sighing, she said, “When you didn’t come see me, I got worried.  When the computer said you were in Astrometrics with the kids, I just ran out of my quarters to find you.” Seven smirked at the explanation before giving one of her own.  “I thought it prudent to spend ‘quality time’ with the children.  They had brought up the topic of ‘imagination.’  So we decided to explore that aspect of humanity.” Reaching out to steady a wobbling Azan, B’Elanna looked back at Seven with a tender smile on her face.  “I’m glad you did.  And you were doing a good job, too.  But I hate to tell you, that constellation looked nothing like a targh!” Icheb, who was carrying Mizoti, decided to comment, “But Lt., is that not what imagination is all about?” B’Elanna stopped in the middle of the corridor.  Icheb, who was walking ahead, also stopped and looked back at the half-Klingon expectantly.  She smiled a radiant smile at him and responded, “Absolutely.” It took B’Elanna and Icheb twice as long to herd the group through Voyager as it normally would have, having to stop several times to allow Seven and the twins time to regain their balance.  If the reasons behind the illness weren’t so tragic, B’Elanna would have laughed at the sight.  Drunken Borg!  When they were all safely regenerating, including Icheb, B’Elanna called the Doctor and asked him to come down to the Cargo Bay.  When he arrived, she asked him to check them all over to make sure no permanent damage had been done.  She didn’t want to share all the details of the special evening with the EMH, so she just mentioned that it had been somewhat emotional.  After concluding his examinations, the Doctor announced that the long regeneration cycles should restore them to ‘normal,’ and then he returned to Sickbay. B’Elanna remained in the Cargo Bay for another hour just watching her family “sleep.”  Before leaving, she walked to the base of the dais and looked at the occupant in each alcove.  As she turned to leave, she whispered one word, “Hoch’wi’.” NOTE:  Hoch’wi’ is Klingon for “My Everything” Chapter 19 “Thank you.” “What for?” asked Kathryn softly, looking down at the head resting in her lap, running her fingers through Rain’s gorgeous, jet-black hair. “For not rejecting me,” Rain whispered.  She gazed up into Kathryn’s face intently.  In a more confident, if not arrogant tone, she continued, “Of course, the outcome would still be the same.  It just would have taken longer.” She gave Kathryn a smirk. They had finished eating dinner about an hour ago and had retired to the sofa when a still recovering Rain began feeling dizzy.  They talked about the last seven years. About how Kathryn never found it odd that on every away mission, either Tuvok or Rain accompanied her.  “I mean, really, Kathryn,” teased Rain, “you never found it strange that the only security personnel ever entrusted with your care were the Chief of Security and his second-in-command?” Kathryn just gave a self-deprecating smile and shrugged her shoulders.  “I never thought about it, truthfully.” Rain took the time to explain that after Tuvok returned to Voyager after his undercover work with the Maquis, he had approached his second-in-command.  He had noticed her unusual behavior in the Captain’s presence.  So Rain told him that the Captain was her mate.  He took the news with his typical Vulcan stoicism.  And then, in a very un-Vulcan-like gesture, he saw to it that the Captain was protected, at all times, by the two best security officers on board.  Rain or himself. “I’m not doubting your skill, darling, by why did it have to be you or Tuvok?” inquired a confused Kathryn. “Kathryn,” Rain began softly, “do you remember when I told you that the easiest way for an Energetic to die was the most closely guarded secret in the Energetic way of life?” Kathryn nodded. “It’s also the only way that has a one hundred percent mortality rate.  It will kill an Energetic every time.” Rain had Kathryn’s complete attention now.  Even the fingers in Rain’s hair had ceased movement.  “What is it?” Kathryn asked.  The seriousness in Rain’s tone had alerted the Captain that this topic was of the utmost importance to Energetics in general and this Energetic, in particular. Rain’s gaze never faltered, never looked away from Kathryn’s.  “The easiest, quickest way to kill me,” she began, “is to kill my mate.” Kathryn’s jaw dropped.  “But-.  How-?  I mean-.”  She was unable to complete a sentence. Rain sat up and turned to face the center of her world.  “Kathryn, the Energetic lifestyle is intrinsically connected to the mating instinct.  We are a species that sustains itself on emotion.  Once we have actually completed the mating rituals and ‘mated,’ our lives cannot be separated.  Think about it.  What are the greatest and most powerful emotions?  Love and hate.  Hate can never be used to sustain life.  But love?  What other emotion could possibly be more powerful in a ‘mated’ couple?  There is none,” she finished gently.  As an afterthought, she continued.  “I haven’t said it yet because I didn’t want to rush you.  But I have to say it now.  I love you, Kathryn Janeway.  I’ve loved you for 44 years, been in love with you for seven, and put my life in your hands the first time I kissed you.  So I’m saying ‘thank you.’” Kathryn thought her heart would burst.  “I’ve never fallen in love at first sight before,” she stated in a husky voice that drove Rain wild. Rain smiled and said, “You didn’t this time, either.” Kathryn chuckled and replied, “Perhaps not, but I’ve never loved anyone in my whole life as much as I love you.  And that scares me.” Rain leaned over to bestow a kiss upon the lips of her intended.  “It’s okay to be scared,” she whispered against lips so soft she wanted to sink into them.  “But I have to know if you can accept all of me.  It may be more than you think.  There are many things I can’t tell you until we’re ‘mated.’  You’ll just have to trust me.  Can you do that?” Kathryn couldn’t take her eyes off of the brilliant green gaze that held hers.  “I can do nothing less,” she whispered back. Rain smiled widely at the beauty before her.  Closing the gap, she pressed into those soft lips, pressing her tongue against them, seeking entrance.  Kathryn gave it, opening her mouth, groaning when she felt Rain’s tongue touch her own.  Wrapping her arms around Kathryn’s shoulders, Rain pressed down until she was lying on top of Kathryn, stretched along the sofa.  Wedging a knee into Kathryn’s crotch, Rain pounced.  Her passion rose quickly, her need unleashed. Kathryn was awash in a sea of molten desire.  No one had ever wanted her so badly before, and it was incredibly intoxicating.  Her breathing was coming in quick gasps, shuddering when Rain began to nibble along her neck.  Feeling moisture gathering between her legs, Kathryn thrust her hips up against Rain’s knee, seeking greater contact.  Rain obliged by pushing back.  All of a sudden, Rain let out a gasp of pain.  Rolling off of Kathryn, she crashed onto the floor, grabbing her head between her hands, curling into a ball on her side.  Kathryn was beside her in a second.  “Rain, honey, what’s wrong?” she asked in a panic, alarmed at the change in the Energetic’s demeanor.  “Should I call the Doctor?” Rain managed to stutter out a “No,” while continuing to rock back and forth on the floor.  After a few minutes, which seemed like hours to the nervous and worried Captain, Rain sat up, albeit a bit unsteadily.  Lending a hand, Kathryn helped the security officer back onto the sofa. “What happened?” she asked, desperate to help. Rain’s response was as far from what Kathryn expected than if she had just suggested the Captain jump out an airlock.  “Could you call the Bridge to see if we just passed anywhere near a class-4 or higher nebula or an ion storm?  Within about five light years or so?” she asked in a hushed tone, still visibly shaken. “Of course,” Kathryn replied.  Her confusion would not stop her from doing whatever Rain requested.  “Janeway to the Bridge.” Tuvok, who had command of Beta shift this week, responded.  “This is the Bridge.  Go ahead, Captain.” “Tuvok, I need to know if we, by any chance, just happened to pass within five light years of either a class-4 or higher nebula or an ion storm.”  Janeway could sense the confusion on the Bridge at her request.  She gave a small smirk.  But Tuvok surprised her.  It seemed he really did know a lot about the young Energetic who was his second-in-command.  “Yes, Captain.  We just passed within four light years of a rather unremarkable class-5 nebula, heavy in gamma radiation.  Might I suggest getting Lieutenant Masters to Sickbay post-haste.”  He understood immediately the reason why the Captain would call to ask about something that was usually very insignificant. “Thanks, Tuvok.  Janeway out.”  Turning to Rain, her concern renewed, Kathryn helped her stand up.  Walking to the door, the young Energetic stopped.  Uncomfortable in her current state, she still managed to inject some levity into the situation.  “Kathryn, as sexy and appealing as the sight is, and as grateful as I am that you did so for my benefit,” she began with a smile, “maybe you should put some shoes on.” Kathryn stared at Rain in disbelief.  “I’m not going to waste time with that.  You’re in pain.  That’s unacceptable.  We could use the site to site transport,” she said thoughtfully. “No, Kathryn, we can’t.”  Rain was having trouble standing.  Kathryn made a grab for her as she succumbed to a wave of dizziness, nearly falling on the floor.  “The nebula is messing with my brain chemistry, and the transporter won’t be able to get a lock on me.  We’ll have to hoof it.” Kathryn was alarmed but willing.  They left the Captain’s quarters and made their way to the turbolift.  When the doors opened, Chakotay stepped out.  He gave the women a look and smiled.  He was happy to see them together.  Noticing Rain’s dizziness, he helped Kathryn steady the security officer.  “Is everything okay?” he asked in a concerned voice. “We just passed a nebula that’s making her dizzy,” replied Kathryn distractedly, missing the confused look passing over the Commander’s face.  But she definitely heard his chuckle before the doors closed.  Looking up, she asked, “What?” Chakotay just waved her off, still laughing.  She heard him muttering something about it “being a night for bare feet” as the doors to the ‘lift closed.  They rode to Sickbay in silence, Kathryn still holding on to Rain, rubbing her hand over the Energetic’s back.  She had no idea how arousing that was to Rain, even if she couldn’t respond to it just then. Arriving in Sickbay, Kathryn activated the EMH. “Please state the nature of the medical emergency.” “Doctor,” said Janeway, “Rain needs your assistance.” The EMH took in the sight of the Captain holding up an obviously dizzy Rain and assessed the situation immediately.  Helping the lieutenant on to a biobed, he asked, “An ion storm or a nebula?” “A nebula.  Class-5, filled with gamma radiation.  How did you know?” asked Kathryn. “Captain, I have seen the good Lieutenant many times in my Sickbay.”  He began running his tricorder over his silent Energetic patient.  “The only time she ever gets dizzy is when Voyager is in close proximity to large energy signatures.  Though it does just seem like a night for dizziness.” Kathryn gave the Doctor a confused look.  “What are you talking about?” “Oh.  Our family of Borg, of course.  It appears as though it was ‘family bonding night,’ and Lieutenant Torres summoned me after the wellspring of emotion made them all dizzy.  All except Icheb, of course.  But no need to worry.  They are all safely regenerating in their alcoves and will be none the worse for wear tomorrow.” “I see.  What can you do for Rain?” “Well, nothing really,” he began.  “Her chemistry won’t tolerate medications.” “Then why did Tuvok say she should be here?”  Kathryn was growing more confused by the second, and that made her cranky. Rain answered for the Doctor.  “The Lt. Commander knows how energy signatures affect me, enge’mi’.  If the pain becomes too great, the Doctor can induce a coma until we’re out of range.  Tuvok just worries.  Of course, he’d deny that,” she finished with a smirk. Kathryn stood next to the biobed and ran her fingers through Rain’s hair.  She couldn’t get enough of that.  So she decided not to deny herself the pleasure.  Knowing Rain’s head was hurting, Kathryn used her fingers to gently massage the Energetic scalp. Seeing this behavior, the Doctor gave Rain a smile before addressing his commanding officer.  “Do I take this to mean you’ve been informed of the situation, Captain? She just nodded, still gazing down at Rain, so Rain answered for her.  “We were just about to complete the ‘Acceptance’ ritual when we passed the nebula.” The Doctor appeared pleased at the news.  “Wonderful.  Medically speaking, I need to ask.  When will the mating take place?”  He didn’t find the topic at all too personal to discuss.  It was, after all, intrinsically connected to the Energetic’s physiology. Kathryn smiled and looked at Rain with a question on her face.  “Is that any of his business?” Rain just smiled back through her current pain and answered, “In a way, yes.”  Turning toward the Doctor, she responded, “Soon.  There are a lot of steps that have to take place, first.” The Doctor nodded and returned to his office, reminding the two women to call if the pain got worse.  When they were alone, Kathryn gently touched a laceration on Rain’s face.  “Is your chemistry the reason he can’t heal these wounds?” Rain nodded and clarified, “My chemistry doesn’t respond to a dermal regenerator.  I’m pure energy.  So injecting me with medications is a lot like spitting on an inferno.  No effect.  The flip side is that I heal fairly quickly with no scarring.” Kathryn accepted the explanation as another piece of the Rain Masters jigsaw puzzle fell into place.  “Now why don’t you tell me why our ‘mating’ is any of his business.” Rain laughed at the disgusted look on Kathryn’s face.  “I told you.  The mating instinct is intrinsically connected to my physiology.  My body and brain chemistry will undergo a drastic alteration once we mate.”  Kathryn looked alarmed at that so Rain quickly continued, “It’s suppose to, Kathryn.  It’s what will bond us.  And even though you aren’t Energetic, your body and brain chemistry will encounter change, as well.  Though only marginally.  Does that bother you?” Kathryn used the hand that wasn’t in Rain’s hair to caress the arm closest to her.  “And I told you that I trust you and that you don’t frighten me.  I meant that.  I can’t say I’m wild about my brain being messed with, but it’s my understanding that true love is kind of like that anyway.  I guess the poets didn’t know about Energetics when they wrote all that stuff about love and change.  All I ask is that you explain every step of everything that’s going to happen.  I know I won’t be prepared, but I at least want to know what to expect.”  She said this last with a wry smile. Kathryn continued in a teasing manner, “So all these rituals?  Do any of them include marriage?” Rain’s eyes widened.  In a soft voice, she asked, “Do you want to marry me, Kathryn?  I mean, I never expected you to.  There’s no such thing in the Energetic way of life, but I would love to marry you.  That is….ummm….if you’re asking?” she finished somewhat nervously. Kathryn began to laugh.  She laughed so hard she had to lean against the biobed.  Cupping her hands to Rain’s face, she gave a gentle and loving reply.  “I love you, Rain Masters.  I would love nothing more than to show everyone how much by having a public ceremony.  Besides, that way, we can satisfy both our heritages.  You’re mine, remember?” Rain chuckled.  “How could I forget?  I’ve known for 44 years.  I’ve waited a long time.”  Seeing a look pass over her love’s precious face, she asked, “What’s wrong?” Kathryn seemed troubled.  “Does the age thing bother you?” It was Rain’s turn to look troubled.  She turned her head away from Kathryn and murmured tentatively, “I guess I thought you wouldn’t care about that.  Was I wrong?” Kathryn reached out to take Rain’s chin in her hand.  Turning Rain to face her, Kathryn said, “I guess I’m just self-conscious.  I mean, how could someone as young and beautiful as you be interested in an old, washed up Captain like me?” Rain barked out a laugh and sat up.  “Kathryn, what are you talking about?  You’re stunning, absolutely gorgeous, amazingly intelligent, and wickedly funny.  And just how old do you think I am?” Kathryn looked at Rain bemusedly and shrugged her shoulders. Rain sat up taller and looked Kathryn dead in the eye.  “Let me introduce myself properly, enge’mi’.  My name is Lieutenant Rain Killian Masters of the Great House of Killian.  I am an Energetic of the Highest Power.  I am THE 9th Power Energetic.  The only one.  I am King.  I am Queen.  I am Ruler of all Energetics.  When we mate, you will become Queen and I will become all that I am suppose to be.  An Energetic of the 10th Power.  And I am 399 years old.”  She finished with a glint in her eye. Kathryn looked decidedly green.  “Queen?” she squeaked.  At Rain’s nod, she promptly passed out. Rain sighed and said, “At least we’re in Sickbay.  Doc?” Chapter 20 Hearing the whine of the heart monitor, yet again, B’Elanna Torres turned to the holographic Doctor and asked, “How close?” “Six minutes,” was the terse response. “Shit!  That’s an eternity!  Just how the hell am I suppose to shave six more minutes off of this?  The procedure is already down to the bare minimum!” exclaimed B’Elanna, throwing her hands in the air, gesturing wildly. “Lieutenant.” The voice immediately calmed down the volatile half-Klingon.  B’Elanna turned to see Seven standing behind her, hands clasped behind her back.  “What is it, love?” “I have an idea.”  Seven quirked her eyebrow. B’Elanna crossed her arms over her chest and gave Seven a broad smile.  “Okay.  Let’s hear it, Ms. Superiority,” she teased. Seven did indeed have a look of arrogant superiority on her face.  When B’Elanna looked closer she even caught a glimpse of “smugness.”  A week ago, that look would have infuriated her.  Now she just thought it damned cute.  My, my how things change, she thought to herself. “When the node goes longer than 34 minutes without detecting any cortical activity, it is forced to shutdown.  If we were to stimulate activity in the node before time expired you could easily gain the six minutes you require.” The engineer immediately began mentally going through possible scenarios in which to stimulate activity in the node, but was having no luck in thinking of anything that would garner a response from the node without compromising the procedure.  “Got any ideas on how to do that?” she finally asked the brilliant Borg. Seven seemed uncomfortable with the question, which led the half-Klingon to believe that her drone did, indeed, have an idea on the matter but was reluctant to share it.  Turning to the EMH, she said, “Can you give us a minute, Doc?” Hoping that the engineer and Seven could come up with a way of either speeding up the surgery or lengthening the time limit, the Doctor replied, “Of course.  Call me when you have something.  I’ll be in Sickbay.  Computer, transfer EMH program back to Sickbay.”  With that, the Doctor disappeared. “Ok, tell me.  Because I can’t come up with anything that won’t compromise the procedure.” “Lieut- B’Elanna.  I believe an outside stimulus would signal the cortical processor without affecting the circuitry being realigned, provided you disconnect the neural pathways from the synaptic relays before you administer the stimulus. If you administer the stimulus at the point immediately after you disconnect the neural pathways but before you begin rerouting them, the node will detect the cortical activity and remain active, giving you at least 12 additional minutes.” B’Elanna stared at Seven in awe.  The sheer genius trapped within that knockout body was enough to make her swoon.  The engineer shook her head to clear the cobwebs.  Klingons don’t swoon, she told herself.  Instead she walked up to Seven and said, “Have I ever told you how amazing I think you are?  How absolutely brilliant that mind of yours is?” Seven gave her little Chief a soft look and responded with, “You have mentioned the word ‘brilliant’ in conjunction with my actions once.  You have never used the word ‘amazing.’” “Are you sure?” asked B’Elanna with a slight crinkle beneath her brow ridges. Seven found the look adorable.  Reaching up with her fully Human right hand, she traced the elegant ridges reverently.  “Of course, I am sure.  I have an eidetic memory,” she gently chided. “My mistake,” murmured the little Klingon, leaning into Seven’s touch, eyes closed. They ended the tender moment before it could play havoc with Seven’s cortical processor.  Stepping back from one another, B’Elanna asked, “What sort of stimulus did you have in mind?” Seven, again, looked uncomfortable.  So she asked a question of her own.  “B’Elanna, what outside stimulus normally garners the most response from me?  That is what will be needed.” B’Elanna gave Seven a gentle look as understanding dawned.  “You are amazing,” she whispered.  Tapping her comm. badge, she said, “Torres to Paris.” “Paris here.  What can I do for you, ‘Lanna?” “With the Captain’s permission, Tom, Seven and I could use your help on the holodeck.” The two women could hear Paris asking and receiving permission from the Captain before he replied, “I’ll be right there.  Paris out.” When Tom arrived, B’Elanna asked him to help make some alterations to the simulation.  She wanted it to be as accurate as possible.  “I need you to help make the holographic Seven more life-like.  Before, we just programmed the cortical node and brainwave patterns, now I need it to appear to be the real thing on the biobed.  I can’t run the simulation without knowing how the holographic Seven will respond to outside stimuli.”  She briefly explained to Paris how she and Seven planned to lengthen the time limit for the surgical procedure.  He quickly went to work, reprogramming the simulation. Turning to the women, he said, “It’ll probably take me about an hour, if you guys wanted to go get some lunch or something.” B’Elanna smiled her thanks, grabbed Seven’s left hand, with the Borg exoskeleton, and pulled her out of the holodeck.  Outside in the corridor, B’Elanna tapped her comm. badge, “Computer, locate Icheb, Azan, Rebi, and Mizoti.” Seven looked amused, but followed her little Chief into the turbolift. “Icheb is in Astrometrics.  Azan, Rebi, and Mizoti are in the Mess Hall,” replied the feminine tones of the computer. “Deck 2,” instructed B’Elanna before activating her comm. badge, yet again.  “Torres to Icheb.” “This is Icheb.  How may I be of assistance, Lieutenant?” “Icheb, Seven and I are about to get some lunch.  We wanted to know if you would join us,” she said with a wink at the still silent Borg.  “The other kids are already in the Mess Hall.” “I shall join you momentarily,” came the boy’s reply, sounding pleased. “Good.  Torres out.”  Turning to Seven, she squeezed the hand she still held.  “No comment?” she asked. “No,” replied the ex-drone.  “I enjoy watching you interact with my children.” Arriving on Deck 2, the women exited the ‘lift and moved down the corridor.  B’Elanna, refusing to release Seven’s hand, tentatively whispered in what she thought was an inaudible voice, “I’m hoping to call them ‘ours’ someday, bang’wI’.” Seven, compliments of the Collective of course, heard the comment with her enhanced hearing.  Squeezing B’Elanna’s hand back, Seven replied softly, “As am I, tIq’wI’.” B’Elanna looked up at Seven in surprise, slightly embarrassed at having been caught.  Before she could say anything, they arrived in the Mess Hall.  They had just entered the room when they heard, “Seven!  Lieutenant!  Are you here to ingest your nutritional supplements?” Looking across the room, Seven saw her three youngest sitting at a table with Naomi Wildman and Neelix.  She answered Rebi’s question, “Yes.  Icheb will be joining us momentarily.” Neelix eyed the clasped hands with undisguised delight.  It confirmed the rumors that had been circulating about the change in the women’s relationship.   He couldn’t be happier.  He saw before him, a growing family.  Standing up, he said, “Well, I’ll leave you to enjoy your lunch.  I’ve got to be getting back to the kitchen.”  He practically danced away. B’Elanna gave him an amused look. Seven, in the meanwhile, was looking around the table as she sat down, tugging B’Elanna into the seat next to her.  Eyeing Naomi’s downcast expression, she said, “Naomi Wildman.” Naomi looked up at Seven.  “Yes, Seven?” “Are you free for a game of Kadis-Kot this evening?  Perhaps after you have eaten?”  Seven was aware that Naomi was feeling left out since the twins and Mizoti had returned.  Naomi gave her a radiant grin and said, “Yes.  I have to ask Mom, but she’ll say ‘yes.’  She always does.” “Indeed.  I will pick you up at your quarters at 1900 hours.”  She caught a look from B’Elanna and smiled when the half-Klingon spoke. “So, how would the rest of you like to spend the evening with a pregnant half-Klingon?” Mizoti looked at B’Elanna with interest.  “If it is as Icheb predicts, we would benefit by getting to know you better.  Before you join our ‘unimatrix.’” Icheb arrived at that point, correcting Mizoti before Seven was able.  “I believe, Mizoti, that Seven objected to that designation.  ‘Family’ is a better way to express our ‘togetherness.’” “There were no families in the Collective,” came the predictable response from the little girl. Seven gave her a stern look.  “You are no longer in the Collective.” Azan sat up straighter.  “That is not true, Seven.  You said that Voyager was our Collective.” Rebi interrupted. “If that is the case, then there are, indeed, families in the Collective,” he said, pointing at Naomi. B’Elanna let her head fall to the table, banging it against the surface repeatedly, muttering, “What am I getting myself into?” over and over again. Mizoti reached across the table and rested her small hand on the back of the engineer’s head.  She softly whispered, “Lieutenant, you will give yourself a contusion.  Please cease this activity.” The lieutenant reached back and took Mizoti’s delicate hand in hers and picked her head up.  Looking at the little girl with affection, she said, “It can’t be Seven teaching you manners.  She’s never said ‘please.’” Mizoti gave B’Elanna a confused look.  “Seven of Nine instructed us on the proper way of making a request.  We must say ‘please’ and ‘thank you.’  Was I incorrect?” “No, kiddo.  I was teasing.  You said it exactly right,” responded the Klingon, giving the little hand a quick kiss before releasing it. Mizoti stared at the engineer in astonishment.  She had never received a kiss of any kind so she did not know what to make of the Klingon’s actions. Seeing this, B’Elanna said, “It’s a kiss, baby.  But don’t think about it now.  I don’t want you getting sick.  Just let it go,” she ordered softly. Mizoti gave B’Elanna the superior look she must have learned from Seven and said, “I will comply.  But I will revisit this issue once you repair me.” “Fair enough,” said the besotted Chief Engineer.  She looked down and saw a tray placed before her.  Wondering where it came from, she asked Seven.  The ex-drone gave a dry response. “Icheb retrieved our lunches when he saw you abusing yourself.” B’Elanna looked sheepishly at Seven’s oldest child. “Thanks,” she replied and dug into her meal. Lunch passed in pleasant banter.  It was gratifying for B’Elanna to see the children bickering back and forth as children have done for millennia, pleased to note that the Borg couldn’t take that away.  It was gratifying for Seven to see her children react positively to B’Elanna.  And she could tell that her little Chief was completely enamored with the children. A hail from Tom interrupted them.  “Paris to Lt. Torres.” B’Elanna tapped her comm. badge.  “Torres here.” “I think I’ve got the simulation set up how you want it. You can give it a try anytime.” “Thanks, Tom.  We’ll be there in a few minutes.” Seven and B’Elanna said good-bye to the children after confirming their evening plans.  Walking into the turbolift, Seven gave B’Elanna a bemused look. B’Elanna caught the look and asked, “What?” Waiting until the ‘lift stopped at Deck 6, Seven said, “Just because I do not often choose to utilize niceties, I am aware that they exist,” before sauntering into the corridor. Catching up to Seven just before she entered the holodeck, B’Elanna stopped her.  “Are you upset about what I said to Mizoti?  I was only teasing, Soch.” Seven sighed and looked away.  “I am aware of my reputation, B’Elanna.  I have not always used pleasantries.  But I have been trying lately.” B’Elanna was upset that she had hurt the beautiful Borg.  Tugging on Seven’s hand, the engineer silently asked the drone to look at her.  Staring into those mesmerizing blue orbs with her own tear-filled brown ones, B’Elanna said, “Seven.  I’m sorry.  I didn’t mean to hurt you.  I truly was just teasing.  Please, forgive me.  QamuSHa’, Soch.”  Seven reached up to wipe away B’Elanna’s tears.  She whispered, “I know you love me.  And I am not hurt.  But I do not want my children to have the same reputation that I have.”  She leaned down to press her lips to the ridges on her little Chief’s forehead. B’Elanna took the gesture as it was meant.  As forgiveness.  She pulled back and softly said, “They’re wonderful, Seven.  You are amazing with them.  And you don’t have a bad reputation.  You have a Borg-influenced personality.  If others can’t get past it, they don’t know what they’re missing.  I’m glad I came to my senses,” she finished with a smirk. Seven responded with a smirk of her own.  “So am I.” They entered the holodeck to find Tom lounging on a holographic biobed.  “What took you guys so long?  Did Neelix move the Mess Hall to the port nacelle?” “Shut up, Tom, and tell us what you did.” So Tom spent the next ten minutes explaining his modifications.  After Seven and B’Elanna approved of his changes, they thanked him, and he left to take his own lunch. “Torres to Sickbay.” “Sickbay here.  What can I do for you, Lieutenant,” came the Doctor’s response. “Seven and I are ready to try another simulation.” “I’m on my way.  EMH out.” Seconds later, the Doctor materialized on the holodeck.  B’Elanna took a minute to explain Seven’s idea.  The Doctor was intrigued.  “What sort of outside stimulus are we talking about?” B’Elanna tossed a smile at Seven before answering.  “The pleasant kind.  You’ll just have to wait and see.” The EMH grumbled and busied himself with setting up his instruments.  B’Elanna took her place at the head of the biobed, directly above the holographic Seven’s optical implant.  At Torres’ nod, the Doctor began the simulation.  It took the lieutenant ten minutes to disconnect the neural pathways from the synaptic relays.  When she finished, she spared a glance at the real Seven, who nodded, unsure exactly what the half-Klingon planned to do for an outside stimulus.  So it was to her surprise and the Doctor’s astonishment that B’Elanna leaned down over the holographic Seven and pressed her lips gently to the soft lips of the holo-Seven.  The response was immediate.  NOTE: tIq’wI’ is Klingon for “my heart” NOTE: Soch is Klingon for “Seven” NOTE: qamuSHa’ is Klingon for “I love you” To be continued...