Author:  VoyCaPtive

Series: Star Trek Voyager

Pairings:  J/C, P/T, turns into C/P, J/T.

Beta’d:  Yes, by me, and if there’s still boo boo’s then they’re stuck there! <grin>

Summary:  I have to class this story AU because I took an episode from canon and had my way with it.  I took the second season episode Tuvix and altered it.  In my version of events Chakotay and B’Elanna are morphed into one being rather than Neelix and Tuvok.  Also, Kathryn and Chakotay as well as Tom and B’Elanna are in newly established relationships.

Disclaimer: The characters and the ship and the DQ and everything belongs to Paramount.  I will not, nor is it my intent to make any monies from this story.  I only wanted to take the characters out for some fun.

~*~*~*~*~*~

True love cannot be found where it truly does not exist,

Nor can it be hidden where it truly does.

~ by Anonymous ~

It all started simply enough.  Some of the crew had beamed down to some planet and was gathering food and minerals.  They had gathered enough and it was time to get back up to the ship.  Chakotay requested a beam up.  Harry answered and said there was a small glitch in the transporter.  What else was new?  Hardly a day went by that something or other didn’t foul up in some way; it was a miracle that Voyager had lasted this long considering they couldn’t just pull up to a star base and request repairs whenever needed.

A few minutes later Harry commed and told Chakotay the transporter was working; but, not very well and could only handle two people at a time.  Neelix and Tom were beamed up first without incident.  Chakotay and B’Elanna waited for their turn.  This is where it got a little weird.  Tom waited in the transporter room for B’Elanna to beam up and watched as Harry worked on getting the transporter to cooperate. 

It seemed that the transporter had other ideas.

B’Elanna and Chakotay did not rematerialize on the transporter padd.  Instead, a beautiful woman rematerialized.  She was an exotic female, with skin the color of bronze, which was a striking blend of B’Elanna and Chakotay.  Tom looked at her and thought, ‘She looks kind of like that twentieth century actress Selma Hayek.’

“Kim to security, intruder alert, transporter room one; identify yourself.”  Harry Kim demanded as he drew his phaser.

“I am Lieutenant Torres… and I am Chakotay,” replied this gorgeous woman in wide eyed wonder.

“Harry, according to the bio scanners, she’s right, somehow their patterns have merged, B’Elanna and the Commander’s, their, oh shit,” Tom replied with equal wonder, wondering what the hell was going on!  Tom could immediately see that his sex life was about to get a hell of a lot more complicated.

“I think the reasonable thing to do is for me to go to sickbay.”  She acknowledged with a look of utter confusion wrinkling her features.

~*~*~

A few minutes later in sickbay.

“And you recognize us all?”  Captain Janeway demanded.

“Of course, Kathryn I know you,” she said starting to blush.  She looked over at Tom, “And I know you too, Tom,” blushing even more.  She then looked around and identified the EMH, Kes, and Harry.

One would have been hard pressed to tell if Kathryn Janeway or Tom Paris was more dumbfounded by the sudden appearance of this morphed version of their lovers.

“My scans indicate that all biological matter was merged on a molecular level,” the EMH stated while frowning in wonder at his medical scanner.  He continued, “Proteins, enzymes, DNA sequences.  The woman you see before you is literally a fusion of two people.  She’s remarkably healthy considering the circumstances, all vital signs are stable.”

“What’s the last thing you remember?”  Captain Janeway asked.

“I remember we… I… uh… that is Chakotay and B’Elanna were waiting to be beamed up and then the next I knew, I was standing on the transporter pad with Harry pointing a phaser at me.”

“I’m also picking up traces of a third genetic pattern; it appears to be plant based.”  The EMH stated with another puzzled frown – it seemed like one of a few facial expressions of the day.

“The orchid!  We had collected several dozen samples of orchids.  They were in our sample containers when we beamed up.”  She explained.

“Well they’re part of your genetic structure now; however, they don’t appear to be affecting your biochemistry.”

Captain Janeway looked toward Harry and asked, “Carrey said that you were having trouble with the molecular imaging scanners.”

“That’s right.”  Harry answered.

“Maybe the alien plant life affected the scanners in some way.”  The Captain theorized.

“Possibly, I’ll know more when we run a diagnostic on the bio-filters in transporter room one.”  Harry answered.

“Get on it.”  Captain Janeway commanded; then, turned to the EMH, “Doctor let me know when you have anything more.”  Captain Janeway said and then took off out of sickbay.

Beating a hasty retreat looked like a pretty good idea to Tom as well.  Tom was finding this exotic beauty, who was one part his girl friend and one part the captain’s boyfriend, very distracting.

“Kes take our patient to the science lab and perform a full bio-spectral analysis.  I’ll start examining the genetic data.”  The Doc ordered.  He had that ‘I am determined to solve this no matter what’ look on his face.  Tom liked that look, he wanted B’El back.

~*~*~

A few minutes later in the science lab

“This scan is very delicate so try to remain still for the next twenty minutes.”  Kes explained.

“Kes…”

In a gesture of sympathy Kes reached out and placed a hand on her shoulder.  “I know how scared you must feel.  Try not to worry too much; I’m sure we’ll figure out what happened shortly B’Elan... Cha… I’m sorry I don’t know how to refer to you.”

“I don’t know either.”

“You could try combining both of your names.”  Kes offered.

“Well, let’s see… Cha’B’El, Cha’lanna, B’Elcha… unh, Tay’lanna, TayB’El, Chatorkes… the choices are beyond belief.”

“I like the sound of Cha’lanna.”  Kes said.

“Then Cha’lanna it is!”  She declared.

Kes entered the name choice into the computer and asked, “Cha’lanna do you mind if I ask you some questions about what you’re going though?”  Kes asked.

“Not at all.” Cha’lanna answered.

“Do you feel as if you’re thinking with two minds, two separate minds?  Are Chakotay and B’Elanna inside of you?  Talking to me, talking to you?”

“If you mean am I suffering from some sort of multiple personality disorder, I don’t think so.  I do have the memories of Chakotay and B’Elanna.  But I seem to have a single consciousness.”

~*~*~

A little while later, still in sickbay…

Chief Medical Officers Log – Supplemental

“Extensive microcellular scans on the merged humanoid have thus far yielded no clues to either a cause or a method of separation.”

Cha’lanna paced back and forth in sickbay wondering what in the hell she was going to do.  She had memories of B’Elanna and Tom having recently started a relationship; and of Chakotay and Captain Janeway doing the same.  Cha’lanna knew B’Elanna was in love with Kathryn; but, Kathryn was heterosexual.  So, B’Elanna settled for Tom knowing she would have a good life with him.  Cha’lanna also knew Chakotay was madly in love with Tom; but, he knew Tom to be heterosexual and involved already involved with B’Elanna, so he settled for Kathryn thinking he would love her in time.

Cha’lanna’s thoughts were interrupted as Captain Janeway entered the sickbay.

“Kathryn, I’m so glad you returned.”  Cha’lanna said as she walked toward the captain.

Captain Janeway stopped her entrance and backed up a little as she replied, “How are you feeling?”

“I feel fine.  I think we need to talk.”  Noticing the captain’s retreat and not liking what it implied.

“Not here, please.  Will you come with me to my ready room?”

“Yes.”

~*~*~

Captain Janeway’s Ready Room.

“Kathryn, how can you say that?  Our relationship just started and now you’re ending it?”

“Cha’lanna I cannot continue a relationship with you.  You’re a woman, and most importantly you’re not Chakotay.”

“Spirits Kathryn, I would never have guessed you could be homophobic.”

“I am not homophobic.  I’m just not attracted to women.  Look, we should be discussing how you are going to carry off the duties of both first officer and chief engineer.”

“I’m sure with Joe Carrey’s help I could still run engineering while attending my duties as first officer.”

“You may need help with Chakotay’s duties as well.”

“Very well, perhaps Tuvok could help me.”

“Good idea, I’ll arrange it.  What about your quarters?”

“Which quarters?”

“Exactly, which quarters do you intend to use?”

Cha’lanna thought for a moment then answered, “Both, why should it matter anyway?  The doctor will fix me and then it’ll be a mute point.”

“Fine.”

“Pft.  I guess… we’re done then?”

“Yes, that will be all for now.”

“Kath…”

“I said, that will be all.”  Captain Janeway repeated.

Cha’lanna grudgingly left the captain’s ready room and crossed the bridge thinking of what to do next.

Cha’lanna decided to go to Tom’s cabin to see what response she would get from him, she figured she might as well get all the rejections over and done with and try to move on.

Cha’lanna emerged from the turbolift on deck four and made her way to Tom’s cabin.  Once there however she felt great trepidation and almost changed her mind and quickly rang Tom’s chime before she did change her mind.

“Come in.”  Tom answered right away.

“Hi Tom.”

“Hi.”

“I’ve decided to call myself Cha’lanna.”

“Cha’lanna.”  Tom repeated to see how it sounded.  “I like it.”

“Thanks.  Umm… look about us; I’ll understand if you don’t want to continue our relationship.”  Cha’lanna said with more than a hint of sadness in her voice.

“Whoa wait a minute; I have to admit I feel a little awkward knowing that you are a combination of my girlfriend and my first officer – especially since the commander and the captain just started dating.  But, I don’t want to stop seeing you.  However, our sex life may have got a little complicated though.”  Tom answered.

“Well, my relationship Kathryn is… I don’t know what’s going on with it at the moment.  I have Chakotay’s memories and my own; he was dating Kathryn because he couldn’t have the one he wanted.”

“Okaaaay.”

“Chakotay is in love with someone else.”  Cha’lanna answered.

“I’ll be damned, life in the delta quadrant just keeps getting weirder and weirder; who is he in love with?”

“You.”

“You’re kidding right?”

“No.”  Cha’lanna answered abruptly.

“Sorry, but how can Chakotay love me when he clearly he’s come a long way just to even like me?”

“He doesn’t hate you.  He misunderstood what happened in the Maquis but he knows you weren’t the traitor that circumstances painted you to be.  He’s been attracted to you from the moment he first laid eyes on you and it eventually grew into love.  But he thinks or thought that you’re heterosexual and most importantly you’re currently in a relationship with a woman that he regards as the little sister he never had.”

“Oh shit.  That’s a lot to digest all at once.  I had no idea.  I’ve had men attracted to me before and I’m not too freaked out by the idea, but this is Chakotay that we’re talking about.”

“I’m sorry Tom.  I shouldn’t have said anything.”  Cha’lanna answered thinking she’d better not mention B’Elanna’s feelings for Kathryn or Tom would really flip his lid.

“Yeah there something to be said for ignorance, that it ‘is’ bliss.”  Tom answered with a touch of sarcasm.

Looking like a kicked puppy Cha’lanna offered to leave.  Tom, seeing the unhappy look and not liking it, took Cha’lanna in his arms and hugged her.  Cha’lanna melted into his arms.  Tom noticed how different it felt to hold Cha’lanna; she was taller for one thing, and he felt a closeness that wasn’t present when he held B’Elanna – he felt puzzled by it.

~*~*~

Later in the conference room.

Harry Kim paced behind the conference table as he spoke, “The transporter was functioning normally.  Bio-filters, pattern buffers; everything checked out.”

“What about the problem with the molecular imaging scanners?”  Captain Janeway asked.

“According to the transporter logs they were optimal at the time of transport.  It was a perfectly routine beam out sequence.  No anomalies, no power overloads, no malfunctions.”  Harry Kim explained.

Tom chipped in with, “Our scans of the planets surface and atmosphere don’t show anything out of the ordinary.”

Tuvok spoke next, “There’s no evidence of any type of alien interference.  Frankly captain, we’re at a loss.”

Kathryn Janeway looked at Kes, “And the orchids Kes, have you found anything unusual about them?”

“Neelix brought back a few samples on the shuttle and I got a bio-chemical analysis.  It contains the same elements as many plants: chloroplast, mitochondrial enzymes, proteins; but, nothing unusual.”  Kes answered.

“There’s never been an accident like this recorded in the entire history of transporter technology.  I’m not willing to accept it as a random malfunction.”  Janeway declared.

Cha’lanna spoke up, “Captain I recommend we program a holodeck simulation, try recreating the accident.”

Tuvok had an idea and spoke up, “Kes, you mentioned the orchids contained mitochondrial enzymes?”

“Yes, that’s right.”  Kes responded.

“I am recalling some botanical research I conducted in the past.  The presence of mitochondrial enzymes indicates evidence of symbio-genesis.”

Captain Janeway suddenly stood up and began to walk around the conference table as she spoke, “Symbio-genesis!  Symbio-genesis is a rare reproductive process.  Instead of pollination or mating, symbio-genetic organisms merge with a second species.”

Tuvok continued the explanation, “Andorian amoeba for instance.  They’re able to merge with other single celled organisms to form a third unique species – a hybrid.”

“That’s an interesting idea Tuvok.  But we’re talking about microcellular organisms here, I’ve never heard of symbio-genesis occurring in a species as complex as a humanoid.”

“On the contrary Captain, Chakotay and B’Elanna were broken down to a microcellular level during transport – DNA, protein, all in a state of molecular flux.”  Tuvok replied.

Harry Kim interjected, “And if the enzymes that cause symbio-genesis interacted with their DNA while they were in the matter stream if might have caused their patterns to merge.”

“Like an Andorian amoeba.  That’s the best theory I’ve heard so far.  It’s the only theory I’ve heard I’ve heard so far.  And it’s worth investigating.  Mr. Paris, take a shuttle to the planet and collect additional flower specimens.”

“Yes ma’am.”  Tom answered then continued, “But I’d recommend waiting until morning.  The weather on the planet can get really nasty at night.”

“Very well, you’ll depart at 06:00 hours.”  Captain Janeway ordered then closed the meeting.

Everyone filed out of the conference room.  Tom and Cha’lanna got on the turbolift.  Cha’lanna told Tom she’d comm him later and got off on deck two.  Tom got off on deck four and went to his quarters. 

Cha’lanna was in Chakotay’s quarters and was feeling reflective.  She went into Chakotay’s bedroom and walked over to the bed and picked up his pillow and put it to her face breathing in the first officer’s scent.  A strong feeling of familiarity washed over her.  She placed the pillow back on the bed and turned towards the closet.

There were uniforms hanging neatly, a few pairs of jeans, some dress slacks, a couple of sweaters and some shirts.  Cha’lanna wondered what to do with Chakotay’s stuff because it didn’t seem like he would need any of it anytime soon.  Cha’lanna decided that doing nothing was probably the best course of action at the moment.

She then walked into the main living area and went over to the shelf and picked up Chakotay’s medicine bundle thinking that some meditation was in order.  She dearly hoped B’Elanna wouldn’t kill Chakotay’s spirit guide in the spirit plane.

Two hours later Cha’lanna felt a lot better and decided to stay part time in Chakotay’s quarters and part time in B’Elanna’s quarters.  Cha’lanna then decided to go to B’Elanna’s quarters next.

Cha’lanna made her way to B’Elanna’s quarters, let herself in, went into B’Elanna’s bedroom and headed straight for the closet to see if any of B’Elanna’s clothes would fit.  After several minutes of trying on various items Cha’lanna realized that none of the slacks fit; however, a couple of dresses and some shirts did.

Cha’lanna didn’t want to be alone so she went to visit Tom in hope that he might let her stay the night.

~*~*~

A little while later in Tom’s quarters.

“Are you sure you don’t mind Tom?”  Cha’lanna asked for the second time; she wanted to be absolutely sure Tom was okay with the idea of her spending the night.

“Cha’lanna, of course it’s okay.  As long as you know that there’s gonna be no sex.”

“Yes I understand.  Thank you Tom.  I’m sorry for going on about it; it’s just that I have to be sure.”

“That’s okay, let’s turn in okay?”

“Good idea, I’m so tired.”  Cha’lanna answered and then let loose a huge yawn.

Cha’lanna followed Tom into the bedroom, a part of her realized she had never seen this room before; it was familiar and yet unfamiliar.  Tom had been peeling off his clothes as he walked and as a result was already wearing nothing but his under shorts.  Cha’lanna froze to the spot; she couldn’t believe how beautiful Tom’s body was.  She was suddenly wishing that Tom was in the mood for sex.

“Ummm…Cha’lanna, why are you looking at me like that?”  Tom was suddenly feeling very exposed.

Cha’lanna could feel her skin heat up as a blush spread across her face.  She bowed her head and began to undress.  “I… I was… looking at you.”

“Looking at me?”

It was all the memories of Chakotay masturbating, while picturing Tom in various sexual scenarios, which gave Cha’lanna the courage to walk over to Tom and place her hand on his chest.  There was no mistaking the look in her eyes as she looked up at him.

“Oh shit.”  Tom felt himself harden instantly and she had hardly touched him.  The thought quickly come to mind that he had never had that happen quite so fast before.  “Cha’lanna please don’t, I’m not ready for this.”

“You feel ready to me flyboy.”  Cha’lanna declared as she placed her hand over Tom’s erection and then leaned up a little to kiss him.

Tom pulled away immediately.  “Please don’t.”

“I’m sorry, I shouldn’t have done that.”

“It’s okay.  B’Elanna and I had a very physical relationship but I guess you know that.  Anyways, knowing about Chakotay’s feelings for me makes me feel… hell I don’t know how it makes me feel other than confused as hell.  Could we just get some sleep?”  Tom asked as he got into bed and stretched out on his back.  He wanted her to stay; but, he was definitely not ready for anything physical just yet.

Cha’lanna got in and was tempted to cuddle up to Tom but thought better of it.  So instead she settled for the other side of the bed.  It had been a very trying day for Cha’lanna and so she was asleep within moments.

Sleep did not come as soon for Tom.  His mind was racing at the concept that his girlfriend was a mixture of B’Elanna and Chakotay and that both were attracted to him.  He knew how he felt towards B’Elanna but he had no idea how he felt towards Chakotay.  Friendship?  Yes.  Physical attraction?  He didn’t know.

Tom had never felt any attractions for the same sex, so knowing that part of his girlfriend was the very male first officer of Voyager was a little unsettling to say the least.

Of all the people standing beside B’Elanna at the time of transport, fate had to go and pick Chakotay.  It’s true that Chakotay and Tom had made their amends and had since become good friends.  After the whole Seska fiasco Chakotay paid a visit to Tom that Tom would never forget.

Tom, it’s Chakotay, please let me in.  I need to speak with you.”

“Chakotay, is that really you?”

“Yes Tom, it’s me.”

“I suppose you’re here to take your pound of flesh.”

“No, Tom, I want only to talk.  Could I come in?  Please.”

“Sure, why not.”

 

“Thanks.”

“Think nothing of it, have a seat.  Would you like something to drink?”

“Yes, I’ll have whatever you’re having.”

“You would?  I’m having contraband whiskey.”

“Pour me a shot.”

“Yes sir.  There you are.”

“Thank you Tom.”

“Chakotay, I want to apologize for treating you the way I did when I was undercover.  I really feel bad for the way I treated you.  I just wish the captain would have let you in on what the hell was going on.”

“She couldn’t, I understand that now.  Tom I want to apologize to you as well.  I’ve misjudged you badly.  I’m sorry Tom.”

“You are?”

“Yes Tom, I know that my apology isn’t going to instantly undo all the pains I’ve caused you, but, I hope that eventually we can be friends.”

“You want to be my friend!”

“Yes Tom, I do.”

“Fuck!  I can’t believe what I’m hearing.”

“I understand.”

“You’re serious, aren’t you?”

“Yes Tom, I am very serious.  You’re a good person.  I don’t know why I couldn’t see it before.  I can be incredibly unyielding sometimes.”

“You were most likely blinded by my good looks!”

“Yeah, that must have been it.”

“You want to shoot a game of pool sometime?”

“Yes, Tom, I’d like that.”

Tom and Chakotay started playing pool together and their friendship progressed from there.  When Tom had something to discuss, something he was learning to do thanks to Chakotay, he would seek out the big guy and talk; or, he would speak to Harry if it seemed like a problem Harry could help with.

It wasn’t too long before Tom, Harry, Chakotay, and B’Elanna could usually all be found in Sandrines engaged in pool tournaments amongst themselves and any others that cared to join.  But mostly it was just the four of them.

Tom finally succumbed to sleep to the sound of Cha’lanna’s gentle snores.

~*~*~

Planet side the next morning.

Tom and Cha’lanna took a shuttle to the planet to gather more plant samples.  Cha’lanna was ahead of him and was already at the spot where the landing party had been the day before and had already started to open the sample container.  Tom caught up to her and placed the container of flowers from the hydroponics bay.

“Tom, would you please hand me the flowers from the hydroponics bay.”

“Here you go.”  Tom said as he handed over the flowers one at a time. “One prize winning chrysanthemum, one garden variety clematis.”  Tom stood up and walked towards some bushes nearby, plucked a flower and brought it back. “And last, but not least, one symbio-genetic alien orchid.”

“I never thought that botanical science class would come in so handy.”  Cha’lanna remarked as she placed the lid back on the sample container.

“Cha’lanna to transporter room one, we’re ready down here.”

Cha’lanna and Tom watched as the sample container dematerialized.

~*~*~

Transporter room one.

“Acknowledged.”  Harry Kim replied. “Energizing.”

Kes and Harry watched as the sample container materialized.  There was only one hybrid of the chrysanthemum, clematis, and alien orchid in the sample container when it materialized.  They took the hybrid to sickbay and the doctor tried to reverse the process via the medical transporter.  It was a resounding failure.  They tried numerous more times – all to no avail.

~*~*~

Several hours later in sickbay.

Captain Janeway, Cha’lanna, Tom, Kes, and Harry were all gathered around the EMH as he spoke.  “We made over one hundred attempts to reverse the symbio-genesis using the medical transporter, and each time this has been the unfortunate result.”  The EMH stated as he held up a specimen and then placed it back down, “Complete cellular collapse.”

“The genetic codes of the chrysanthemum and the clematis are so scrambled that the targeting scanners can’t recognize the original pattern.”

“I suppose it would be like trying to extract the flour, eggs, and water after you baked the cake.”  Cha’lanna theorized.

“Obviously in the case of Cha’lanna we’re dealing with a much more complex organism than a flower.  In effect we’re talking about recreating two humanoid life forms without so much as a single discreet strand of DNA to start with.”

“Are you saying I’m going to be this way, forever?”  Cha’lanna asked as she physically leaned on Tom for support.  Tom quickly put his arm around her shoulder to stabilize her.  This display of affection and support was not unnoticed by Kathryn Janeway.

“I am an incredibly skilled doctor and I will continue to pursue a safe and effective treatment till I find one.  But I won’t lie to you, I’m not optimistic.  It could take months even years to find a solution and we must face the possibility that this condition is simply untreatable.  I feel as though I’ve lost two patients.  I’m sorry.”

The captain spoke quietly, “I’ll inform the rest of the crew.”

~*~*~

The next couple of weeks went by as usual; Voyager flew through the Delta Quadrant with Tom at the helm.  Most of the usual players were in their usual spots, with the exception of two.

Cha’lanna divided her time with first officer duties and engineering responsibilities; with Tuvok and Joe Carrey’s help she juggled both roles with aplomb.

Cha’lanna and Tom grew closer and closer with each passing day.  It seemed to Tom as though he shared more common interests with Cha’lanna than with B’Elanna; they absolutely loved spending time on the holodec engaged in various activities such as hiking, skiing, and camping.

It was after one of many such holodec adventures that Tom and Cha’lanna decided to go to Sandrine’s for a drink.

When Tom and Cha’lanna entered Sandrine’s Harry was selecting a song on the jukebox.  Tom had very recently installed a jukebox in Sandrine’s and so far it was a hit.

“Hi ya Har, what’s up?”  Tom called out over the jazzy clarinet solo playing.

“Hi ya Tom, I just discovered this song called ‘It Ain’t Necessarily So.’  It has a terrific clarinet solo at the beginning” Harry said as he walked back to his table and waved Tom over.

“I like this song; it’s got a nice jazzy kinda beat.  It’s by the Bronski Beat; they were a band during the late twentieth century.”  Tom answered.

“Geeez Tom, what song don’t you know?”  Harry asked.

“Hey, I’m obsessed with the twentieth century remember?”  Tom answered.

Harry chuckled, “Yeah that’s you alright.  So what are you and Cha’lanna up to tonight?”

“We were skiing in the other holodec, you?”  Cha’lanna answered.

“Sounds like fun, I’m not up to much.”  Harry answered.

“It was.  Other than me, who wants a synthoholic beer?”  Tom asked.

“I’ll have one.”  Harry answered.

“I would like a brandy please.”  Cha’lanna answered.

Tom got up and went over to the bar and placed the order, paid for it, then brought the drinks back on a tray and set them down.

“Mmmm that tastes good.”  Tom exclaimed as he set his beer down.

All three sat and sipped their drinks and a few minutes passed.

After consuming some liquid courage Cha’lanna asked, “Would you like to dance Tom?”  Brandy always did work a certain magic for Chakotay and it was those memories that gave Cha’lanna the idea to order it.

“Yeah, I’d like that.”  Tom answered.

Cha’lanna and Tom walked over to the dance floor and started to dance to the lovely guitar playing of a Cat Stevens song called The Wind. 

“I listen to the wind, to the wind, of my soul

Where I’ll end up only God really knows”

Those first two lines hit Cha’lanna and Tom, unbeknownst to each other, right in the gut; however, for slightly different reasons.  Cha’lanna’s reasons being obvious just by whom she was and by whom she wasn’t.

Tom’s reason being he didn’t what the hell was going on with his love life.  First he was dating B’Elanna and they had been growing closer.  And then Cha’lanna came into existence and told him that his first officer had the hots for him.  To say he was feeling a little confused was the understatement to the century.

The song ended and Slip Away by Clarence Carter started playing.  It was a bit faster beat and kind of bluesy too.  Tom and Cha’lanna started to do their own variant of an old dance called the jive.  Tom twirled Cha’lanna then pulled her close and caught sight of the captain watching them.

Tom whispered in Cha’lanna’s ear, “We have an audience.”

“So?”

“It’s the captain,” Tom whispered fervently.

“Spirits!”  Cha’lanna quietly exclaimed as she leaned her face into Tom’s chest.  Cha’lanna had the feeling Kathryn was not harboring friendly feelings towards Tom and herself; however, she did not see any alternative than to face Kathryn – besides the song had stopped.

~~

A few minutes later in Kathryn’s quarters.

“Kathryn what is your problem?  You were staring daggers at Tom and me.”

The Captain of Voyager suddenly felt kind of silly as she admitted, “I’m feeling sort of jealous.  I guess it’s because I know a part of you is Chakotay and well, we were dating.”

“I can understand your feelings; but, well, Tom accepts me.”

“Tom is a walking hormone and,” Kathryn was cut off.

“How dare you say such a mean thing!  That’s not fair and you know it!  It’s been two weeks and he hasn’t even so much as kissed me.  In fact I kissed him.”  Cha’lanna shouted huffily.

Kathryn sighed, “You’re right, I’m sorry.  When did you kiss Tom?”

“That first night of my existence; since that night I’ve been spending most of the nights in Tom’s bed and he has been a perfect gentleman.  Look, I have memories inside my head about a lot of things and I know I’m acting on good instincts by trying to continue a relationship with Tom.  It’s not like you’re begging me to save something of your relationship with Chakotay.”

“Dammit you’re a woman!” Kathryn shouted in exasperation.

“Haven’t you even wondered what it might be like to have sex with a woman?”  Cha’lanna asked knowing full well that B’Elanna had dreamed of Kathryn’s blue eyes looking at her with passion.

“No, I’ve never really thought of it.”  Kathryn answered.

“That’s kind of a vague answer.  Do you mean that perhaps you’ve given it a quick thought or two but have never stopped to actually think seriously about it?”  Cha’lanna asked hopefully.

Kathryn sighed, “Yes, I wondered and even tried to fantasize about it, but it didn’t work out.”

“Perhaps you just never fantasized about the right woman.”

“I’m not ready for this right now,” Kathryn said with a bowed head.

Cha’lanna walked over to Kathryn and placed her hand on Kathryn’s shoulder as a gesture of understanding.  Then spoke quietly, “That’s okay.  Perhaps we can get together when you’re ready and talk again?”

“Okay,” Kathryn answered as she looked into Cha’lanna’s eyes.

Before she left, Cha’lanna reached out and gently touched Kathryn’s cheek.

Cha’lanna wasn’t sure of all of the feelings coursing through her.  She felt something just now when she touched Kathryn’s cheek.  This was not too comforting because that meant she would have to choose one over the other.  Hopefully the EMH would come up with a cure for her predicament in more ways than one.  She was carrying the memories of two unrequited loves.  B’Elanna desired Kathryn and Chakotay desired Tom.

~*~*~

The next day.

Captains Log - Stardate 49678.4

It’s been two weeks since the transporter accident that created Cha’lanna, and while it’s still not entirely clear that she’s with us permanently; she’s certainly been doing her best to settle in.  The crew seems to be growing accustomed to her presence and she’s proving to be a very able first officer and chief engineer who isn’t afraid to express her opinions.  While she’s forging relationships with many of the officers she seems to be getting closer to one particular officer.  As for my relationship with Cha’lanna, I’ve found her to be an able advisor, who skillfully uses humour to make her points.

~*~*~

Harry’s quarters, after shift.

“What’s going on between you and Cha’lanna?  Last night in Sandrines and for the last two weeks I’ve noticed something going on between you two; but, I don’t know.”  Harry asked, really wanting to know the answer.

“I don’t know.”  Tom answered.  Wondering himself and not for the first time what was going on.

“Yes you do.  Don’t lie to me, you’re my best friend.  I care about you and I think you need to talk about it.  Harry replied with a tone to his voice that would not accept argument.

“Fuck.  I want to be with Cha’lanna, you know?”

“I take it you mean in the biblical sense?”

“Yes.  ‘I want to fuck her brains out!’”  Tom didn’t dare say that last part out loud.

“Tom, are you bothered by the fact that Cha’lanna is a person who has the memories and biological components of your lover, B’Elanna, and of Chakotay?”

 “Huh?”

“Don’t give me that.”

Tom sighed, he knew it was time to talk or walk.  “I love B’Elanna, but Cha’lanna kissed me and I was so turned on.  I’ve never been that turned on that fast by anyone before, not even B’Elanna.  It got me thinking, why was my reaction to Cha’lanna so much more intense than with B’Elanna?  I could only come up with one answer, Chakotay.”

“Perhaps it’s the combination of them both.”  Harry offered.

“Frankly it would be much easier if it’s Chakotay; because if the doc comes up with a solution I’m gonna lose her.”

“Tom, if it’s Chakotay that you really want, then what the hell are you doing with B’Elanna?”

“I have no clue Harry.  I’ve never looked at a man that way before.”

“Well, maybe you should start.  Because it’s been two weeks, the doctor’s been working feverishly on a solution and he just may come up with one.”

Later, after Tom left, Harry Kim was playing a piece of delightful music on his clarinet and was feeling quite relaxed; but, then the doctor interrupted.

“Sickbay to Ensign Kim.  Please turn to your emergency medical holographic channel.

Harry walked over to his computer and tapped a key on the console. “How can I help you doc?”

“Suppose I found a radio isotope that can selectively attach itself to specific DNA

sequences.  Could the surgical transporters be reprogrammed to lock on to those enhanced sequences and separate them from the remaining DNA?”

“Well, I think so but we’d have to modify the molecular imaging scanners and find a way to compensate for the higher levels of radiation.”  Harry couldn’t’ help but recall his conversation with Tom a few moments ago.

“Thank you Ensign.”

“Wait a second.  What’s going on?”  There was no way in hell Harry was going to just let this go.

“It’s pure speculation at this point.  I’ll let you know when I learn more.”

“This is about Cha’lanna isn’t it?  I’m on my way.”  Harry said and ran out of his quarters.

~*~*~

At the same time in Sandrines.

“Eight ball, corner pocket.”

Crack

“That’s game again Tom.”  Cha’lanna stated proudly.

“Damn, you’re good at this.  I think from now on I’m only gonna play pool with Harry, I’ll lose less replicator credits.”

“Doctor to Cha’lanna.”

“Cha’lanna here.”

“Please report to sickbay immediately.”

Cha’lanna could feel butterflies well up in her stomach.  She just knew by the tone of the EMH’s voice that the he had found something.

“Oh gods Tom I have a feeling about this.”

“Oh shit.  Cha’lanna I have to tell you something.  And unfortunately it’s going to have to be said while we’re walking to sickbay.  When you kissed me I reacted very intensely to it, more so than with anyone, ever.  I started wondering about that and I figure it could be that I’m reacting to Chakotay or maybe the two of you together make the perfect mate for me.  I don’t know.  If the doc is about to say what I think he’s gonna say then I hope it’s because I have this sudden urge to try life on the gay side.”

“Tom, would you be willing to try dating Chakotay just to see if there is anything there?”

“Yeah if I wasn’t already dating B’Elanna.  Oh shit.  B’Elanna’s gonna remember this!”

Tom and Cha’lanna boarded the turbolift and ordered it to take them to deck five.

Cha’lanna looked at Tom and said, “Don’t worry Tom, this will all work out.”

“I hope so.”  Tom said and then took Cha’lanna in his arms and hugged her tightly then pulled back slightly to kiss her deeply.

~*~*~

A few minutes later in sickbay found the captain, Cha’lanna, Tom, Harry, Kes, and the EMH all gathered around listening to the EMH and Harry explain the solution that had been worked out.

“Until late in the twenty first century physicians administered barium to patients with certain gastrointestinal disorders; the radioactive properties of the barium made the lining intestines visible with a primitive technology called x-rays.”

Harry cut in, “Instead of barium, we’ve come up with a radio isotope that attaches itself to the DNA of one of the merged species, but not the other.”

The doctor then summed it up, “Then we simply beam out the selected DNA and segregate the two merged species.”

Harry then grabbed two flowers, “You see these?  Harry held up two flowers, “They used to be a single merged flower.”

“And you can use the same process to separate Chakotay and B’Elanna?”  Kes asked.

“It will require a more detailed reprogramming of the transporters but yes I believe we can restore Commander Chakotay and Lieutenant Torres.”

“That’s wonderful.  Isn’t that wonderful?”  Kes asked looking towards Cha’lanna.

“Yes.”  Cha’lanna answered quietly.

“I assure you Cha’lanna, there’s nothing to worry about.  We’ve accounted for every variable.”

“Yes, I know you have.  I’m okay.”  Cha’lanna answered knowing there were variables that the doctor couldn’t even know about let alone deal with.  For starters she thought, ‘How will Chakotay react when he sees Tom and realizes that Tom knows about his attraction for the pilot?  How will Tom react?  And I don’t even want to think about B’Elanna.”

“Are you ready for us to perform the procedure?”

“Now?”  Cha’lanna asked.

“Yes.”

“Yes, I’m ready.”  Cha’lanna answered.

The EMH picked up the hypospray that contained the radio isotope and ushered Cha’lanna over to the biobed and then injected the contents into her neck once she was seated.  The EMH walked over to the computer and began.

“Locking surgical targeting scanners on to the isotope probe.  Initiating separation sequence.  Energizing.”

Cha’lanna looked into Tom’s eyes for what would be the last time; she tried to convey all of her feelings into that one look.  Tom seemed to understand for his eyes began to well up with tears. 

Everyone’s eyes were on Cha’lanna as she disappeared from view.  Her form was still visible when two other forms appeared on either side of her.  The two forms began to coalesce and became recognizable.  And then Cha’lanna’s form disappeared completely and only the forms of B’Elanna and Chakotay remained as they rematerialized completely.

“Tom!”  B’Elanna jumped off the table and into Tom’s arms hugging him.

Chakotay sat there feeling stunned at the memories that suddenly assailed him; he looked over at B’Elanna hugging Tom and felt a huge stab of jealousy. Chakotay wanted to be the one that hugged Tom.

B’Elanna disengaged from the hug as her memory kicked in and looked over at Chakotay, as did Tom, and came to a conclusion.

“Tom, we need to talk.”  B’Elanna said with a heavy heart.

Chakotay got up from the biobed and started for the door but was halted by the captain.

“Commander, it’s good to have you back.”

“It’s good to be back.  Now if you’ll excuse me.”  Chakotay answered abruptly and left leaving a very bewildered captain behind.

~*~*~

A little while later in Tom’s quarters.

“Tom, you know I have all of Cha’lanna’s memories. I know she told you about Chakotay’s feelings for you.  But she didn’t tell you about my feelings for Kathryn.”

“What!”  Tom shouted as he sat down heavily on his couch.

“Tom, I… I don’t know how to say this to you.  I am very attracted to Kathryn and I’ve been thinking about us and well… I’m sorry Tom; but, I think we shouldn’t date anymore.”

“Shit.”

“I’m sorry Tom.  I hope we can remain friends.”

“B’Elanna, of course we can remain friends.  I love you.  Just not the way you deserve.  I think I may be attracted to Chakotay.”

“I think you are very attracted to him.  It would explain all the hostility between you two in the beginning and why you two had to work so hard just to be friends.”

Tom took B’Elanna into his arms and hugged her tightly.  “Thanks B’El for understanding.”

~*~*~

At the same time in Chakotay’s quarters there was a similar type of conversation going on.

“Chakotay I thought we had something serious.  I thought that we could talk and work through the issues and hopefully resume our relationship.”

“You rejected Cha’lanna and when you did that you were rejecting me too.  Besides, I’m attracted to someone else and I thought that you could replace that someone but I was wrong.  I have all Cha’lanna’s memories of you, of Tom.”

“Are you attracted to Tom?”  Kathryn asked.

“Yes.  I have been for a long time.”

“Did Cha’lanna and Tom have sex?”

“No.”  Chakotay answered.

“What do you intend to do?”

“I don’t know?  I just know that I can’t be with you the way you want me to.  It wouldn’t be fair to either of us.  I’m sorry Kathryn.  I hope we can remain friends.”

“I’m sorry too.  I still want to be your friend; but, please give me some time.”

“Of course Kathryn.”

“Well, I guess I’ll be leaving then.  Good night Chakotay.”

“Goodnight Kathryn.”

Chakotay watched Kathryn leave and then went to his bedroom and started to get ready for bed.  It was a little early for bed; however Chakotay was really tired.  He undressed, put on his sleep shorts and got into bed.  The door chimed.

‘Who the hell could that be?’ Chakotay wondered as he put on his robe and then called, “Enter.”

Chakotay’s door opened to reveal Tom standing there with a hesitant expression.

“Umm… sorry to get you up, can I come in?”

“Of course.  What can I do for you Tom?”

“B’Elanna just broke up with me.”

“I’m sorry to hear that Tom.”

“Are you?”  Tom asked suspiciously as he came closer.

“Yes, I don’t want to see either of you hurting.”

“I’m okay and so’s B’El.  I have to know something.”

“What?”

“This.”  Tom said as he grabbed Chakotay and kissed him.  Tom could not believe how good it felt; his cock was hard so fast that he pulled away in shock and stared at Chakotay in bewilderment.

“Tom, are you okay?”

“I can’t believe how turned on I am by just kissing you!”  Tom exclaimed.

“Have you ever kissed, or been kissed by, a man before?”

“No.”  Tom answered.

“I know this is new to you and to be honest it’s a bit of a shock for me too.  So, why don’t we just take this, whatever it is, slowly, okay?”

“I’m not sure if I’m ready for more than kissing; but, I would like to know what is going on between you and the captain.”

“I broke up with her tonight.”  Chakotay answered.

“There seems to be a lot of that happening tonight.”  Tom replied, “Chakotay… I, don’t want to be alone tonight; may I spend the night?”

“Yes.”  Chakotay answered knowing he would have to deal with the biggest case of blue balls ever.

A few minutes later they were settled in for the night; Chakotay still in his sleep-wear and Tom in his under shorts.  Tom was lying close to Chakotay with his head on resting on his chest and was feeling equal amounts of arousal and nervousness.

“I can’t believe how right this feels,” Tom confessed, “My body wants to fuck you six ways to Sunday and my mind is just trying to catch up to my body.”

“I can wait forever for you Tom.”

“You have been waiting forever for me Chak.”

“Exactly, so a little longer won’t kill me.”

“I hope so, I just found you.”  Tom answered pressing closer to Chakotay.

Chakotay could feel the evidence of Tom’s arousal pressed against his side and he moaned in response.

It was the moan that was Tom’s undoing.

Tom shyly traced his hand down Chakotay’s body and gently palmed his erection; then he leaned up and kissed Chakotay deeply.  In a second the kiss became feral and passionate.

Tom rolled onto Chakotay.  Chakotay’s response was to spread his legs and wrap them around Tom’s waist.  Both men could feel their erections pressing together and they moaned at the contact and began to move their hips.

Chakotay paused and asked, “Tom, are you sure you want to do this?”

Tom looked down into Chakotay’s eyes and saw a depth of emotion pouring out to him.  “A few minutes ago I was afraid of this and now I can’t figure out why.  Yes, I want this, I want you.”

“You’ve got me.”

“Chakotay, would you let me make love to you?”  Tom asked hopeful for Chakotay to say yes; he very much wanted to be inside of Chakotay.

“I would love that.”  Chakotay answered huskily.

~*~*~

A couple of hours later.

“Oh fuck, Chakotay that was the most excellent sex I’ve ever had.”  Tom said.  And then yawned as they finally settled in to sleep.

“Mmmm, yes, it was for me too.”  Chakotay replied with a smile.

“I wonder what’s gonna happen with B’Elanna and Kathryn.”  Tom mused.

“B’Elanna has a challenge ahead of her.”  Chakotay answered.

“I’m sure she’s up to it.”  Tom answered.

“Of that I have no doubt.”

They both chuckled.

~*~*~

One evening two weeks later in the mess hall.

Tom and Chakotay were eating their evening meal together; Kathryn was eating her evening meal alone.  B’Elanna entered and went to get herself some food and then went over and joined Kathryn.

“Those two are becoming quite chummy these days.” Tom noted.

“Yes they are.  Kathryn and I talked about it yesterday after we finished with crew evaluations.”  Chakotay answered.

“And?”  Tom demanded.

“Well, she wouldn’t really say much; but, if the look in her eyes is an indication then I think there may be a new couple in the future.”  Chakotay said quietly.

“I hope so, ‘cause I want B’Elanna to be happy – for her and for me, a little.”  Tom admitted.

“I understand Tom; I’ve been feeling the same about Kathryn.”

Chakotay and Tom sat there for a moment just looking at one another.

“Hey what’s with the sappy looks guys?”  B’Elanna demanded as she plopped down beside Chakotay.

“Hey B’El, how’s your love life?”  Tom asked.

“Swine.”  B’Elanna answered with a big grin.

“Awe geeez I love you too B’El.”  Tom answered as he reached across the table and lightly grasped her hand.

“How are you B’Elanna?”  Chakotay asked.

“I’m excellent!”  B’Elanna answered happily.

“Kathryn and I are almost acting like friends again and she told me that you and she are becoming closer.  I would like to let you know that as your oldest friend, that I want nothing more than your happiness.”

B’Elanna answered him by twisting her body towards him and drawing him into a hug.  “Thanks Chakotay.”

“So, how ‘is’ your love life?”  Chakotay asked impishly.

B’Elanna swatted him playfully, “You’ve been around Tom too much.”

“Come on fess up B’El!”  Tom said.

B’Elanna sighed dramatically, “Kathryn and I are, growing closer.  I’m taking it slow though, because I don’t want to scare her off.  I’m also taking a lot of cold showers.”

“Yeah I remember taking a lot of cold showers over a certain someone.”  Chakotay replied as he looked at Tom.

“Here come the sappy looks again.”  B’Elanna said.

~*~*~

Later in Chakotay’s quarters.

Tom and Chakotay were in bed.  Tom began to prepare his lover for the energetic love making that was about to take place.

“Tom, I would like to make love to you this time.”  Chakotay said as Tom’s finger entered his ass.

Tom didn’t need to even say a word; his shocked facial expression said quite a lot on its own.

“Tom, is there a problem?”

“I… I’m just a little nervous.  I’ve never done that before.”

“I won’t hurt you.”

“I know babe.  I want to know how it feels to have you inside of me, filling me.”  Tom said and then wrapped Chakotay in a hug to let the big guy know he was really okay with this.

“Okay Tom, we can start slowly with a massage to relax you.  If you feel uncomfortable at any time just let me know and we’ll stop.  I love you and I want you to enjoy this.”

“That was wonderful Chak, I love you.”

“I love you too Tom.”

Chakotay and Tom fell asleep peacefully in each others arms.

~*~*~

The end.