By Erin_Cale
Disclaimer: See first part.
***
Meanwhile, in another part of the ship, Tom Paris was looking around in awe. “Wow,” he muttered. “This ship is gorgeous.”
“Thank you,” said a voice, seemingly out of nowhere. The whole gang spun in a circle to see who had spoken. However, nobody was in sight.
“Who said that?” B’Elanna asked, taking a defensive posture in front of Tom and their daughter.
“I did.” A hologram appeared out of nowhere, startling all of them except for the doctor.
“Hello. You must be the ship,” the doctor said, exquisitely interested in this sentient ship.
“In holographic form, yes.” The hologram bowed gracefully.
“How are you sentient?” B’Elanna asked.
“It is a long process. You most likely wouldn’t understand the details since it involves technology you’re not familiar with.”
“Try me.” The hologram hesitated, not wanting to reveal anything about her making to these strangers. “Please? I’d like to know.”
“I would tell you, but your companions would be bored.”
“Well, they can go exploring while we talk.”
“Yes, I’d love to do that,” the doctor interrupted. “Could I see your infirmary?”
The others shrugged, willing to let the doctor make the first choice about where to visit. The hologram considered for a moment then said, “All right. Head down that way, take your second right, then go down two decks. It will be at the end of that hallway.”
“Thank you.” The doctor smiled eagerly and hurried ahead while B’Elanna stayed behind with Rommie’s hologram.
B'Elanna didn’t even watch as her husband went around the corner before she continued her conversation with the hologram. “So... You were saying?”
***