The PADD

All the usual disclaimers apply. The characters belong to Paramount (Viacom and whomever else), but we like to play with them. This is, after all, our alternate universe.

B'Elanna sat at her desk rereading her report on the warp-core tests. She was pleased with the results, but being chief engineer of Voyager for over 3 years, she had learned to temper her reports to hide her pleasure in her successes.

She looked at the PADD sitting on her desk. The one she had just taken from Ensign Stern. The past few weeks had been extremely boring--everybody admitted that. There was nothing in this region of space--not even a stray neutrino. The ship was running smoothly, no major repairs were needed.

It had started maybe a week ago. The engineering crew would arrive giggling or downright laughing. When she had asked what was so funny, she hadn't gotten a straight answer. She hadn't pushed the subject, until this morning when she had caught Ensign Stern reading. The lieutenant had placed the young woman on report and taken the data-PADD. There had been a real look of apprehension on the young ensign's face (and her friends) when B'Elanna had walked away carrying the PADD. She wondered what was on the PADD that could be so interesting, her curiosity was up. Pushing her completed report to one side she took the PADD and started to read.

B'Elanna's eyes widened in shock as she began to read.

Whatever she had been expecting to find on the data-PADD, and to be honest with herself she hadn't really formed any definite idea of what it might have been, she certainly hadn't expected what she was seeing. Whoever had written it had done an extremely good job, and despite her misgivings, she found herself unable to stop, reading avidly until she reached the end. Although it obviously wasn't the end. The author or authors, had apparently been adding to it on a daily basis and there was room for a great deal more to be added to it before it could be considered in any way complete.

B'Elanna put down the PADD, wondering what she should do. In some ways it was just a little harmless fun, something she might have indulged in herself in different circumstances.

But in other ways...

She pondered the situation trying to come up with a workable solution, some way to deal with the problem without having to involve anyone else. Then she was struck by another thought. Exactly how widespread was this little conspiracy?

Were she, and perhaps the other senior officers, the only ones in ignorance of what had been going on?

She needed to talk with Harry. Picking up the data-PADD, she hurried out of engineering. Concentrating her thoughts on how best to quiz Harry without arousing any suspicions, she didn't see the other person approaching from the opposite direction until she collided almost head on with one of the two people she most dreaded seeing at the present time.

As the data-PADD flew from her hands and clattered to the floor, she looked up apprehensively into the highly amused eyes of the ship's first officer.

"Shit." B'Elanna moved to grab the PADD, but Chakotay bent down and picked it up for her.

"Lieutenant, I know you find the 'phaser re-alignment reports' fascinating." His eyes were laughing, "But it would be safer for all concerned if you didn't read them while walking through the halls." He handed it her and was puzzled by her obvious look of relief. "Is everything all right, B'Elanna?"

"Fine, sir. Thank-you sir." She didn't wait for his reply, but continued on her way, thanking Kahless for her luck. He hadn't even glanced at it.

Chakotay shook his head. It was probably not an engineering report, he figured. He entered engineering and looked around. The place seemed strangely quiet. "Ensign Stern, I need the monthly anti-matter consumption reports."

"Sir."

Chakotay noticed she looked very nervous. He wondered what B'Elanna had done to frighten her crew.

The young ensign handed him the data-PADD with the report. She wondered briefly how much B'Elanna had told.

#

#

Harry was surprised when B'Elanna sat down at his table. She usually sat with Tom these days. "Hello, B'Elanna." He noticed Tom wasn't around.

"Harry." She looked around, it was late and the mess hall was nearly empty. "Have you heard any interesting rumors?"

"I've heard lots. But Tom is the one you should be asking."

She quietly placed the PADD in front of him. "Have you heard about this?" As he read, she nervously looked about. "Well?"

"Give me a chance to finish it." His eyes opened wide as he came to the end. "B'Elanna, what???"

She quickly and quietly explained how she had found it.

"You were lucky he didn't stop to read it before handing it back..." A wicked grin appeared on his face. "B'Elanna, what..." He stopped speaking and palmed the PADD and nodded toward the door.

B'Elanna looked up in time to see the Captain approaching their table. Trying to maintain what she hoped was a normal expression, but feeling as if she were failing miserably, she waited for her arrival.

Harry, she noted was also trying to appear nonchalant, but she realized that if she looked half as strange as Harry, the Captain was sure to notice that something was amiss.

Sure enough, the Captain gave them the once over as soon as she reached them. Damn she was good.

"Is something wrong?" she asked without preamble.

"No, not at all, Captain," said B'Elanna, desperately hoping she'd be able to bluff her way out of it.

Harry remained silent and the Captain turned her attentions to him, waiting expectantly for him to reply.

Say something dammit, Harry, she mentally willed him, while giving him a slight kick under the table with her foot.

"Uh, no, Captain. Why would you think there'd be anything wrong?"

He glanced across at B'Elanna, noticing her pained expression, before looking back to the Captain.

The Captain looked from one to the other, clearly choosing to disbelieve the evidence of her ears in favor of that of her eyes. But whatever she thought, for some reason she decided to let the matter drop, at least for the present.

"Harry," she said, after a moment's pause, "I'm sorry to trouble you at such a late hour, but I was wondering if you'd finished those new specifications for the hologenerators?"

"Not quite, Captain," Harry replied almost normally. "Um, you said it wasn't urgent, so I've taken a break from them to concentrate on a few other things. I can get straight back on to it in the morning if you like."

"No, that's okay. It really isn't urgent. I just thought I'd ask, since I had an idea for a new holodeck program."

She looked from one to the other again, before bidding them both goodnight and disappearing back the way she had come.

"Nice work, Harry," berated B'Elanna, as soon as she was sure the Captain had actually left the room and was totally out of earshot. "Now she definitely knows something is up!"

"Sorry," said Harry contritely. "I never was very good with secrets."

"So what are we going to do about this?"

Harry shook his head and waved his hands in front of him.

"Oh, no you don't. You're not dragging me into this. It's your problem, I don't want to get involved."

"In case you've failed to notice, StarFleet, you're already in it up to your neck!" B'Elanna spoke sarcastically.

"Thanks a lot, B'Elanna. I could have done without knowing about this. And here I thought Paris was the root of all my problems!"

The two junior officers stared helplessly at each other for several seconds and then B'Elanna sighed.

"Maybe we should sleep on it, and see what the morning brings."

Harry nodded at that.

"Give me the PADD. I'll hide it in my quarters for safekeeping."

Harry handed it over and the two officers made their way from the messhall deep in thought, failing to notice someone lurking in the shadows, moreover someone who seemed to be extremely interested in the PADD B'Elanna was carrying.

#

#

Chakotay sat down at his desk and started to read the report he'd picked up in engineering. He was supposed to report to the Captain tomorrow on the status of supplies. He groaned. He wasn't going to make it. Well, he'd contact her and let her know this report would be a few hours late. He smiled. It was also an excuse to hear her voice.

He'd actually read the first paragraph before he realized that he didn't have the right PADD. He'd grabbed someone's...He kept reading, not sure whether to laugh or break someone's neck. The urge to laugh won out. The crew definitely needed something to do. After he'd stopped laughing, he tapped his comm-badge. "Commander Chakotay to Lieutenant Paris, please report to my office."

#

#

Tom looked startled at the request, his shift was over in fifteen minutes and he didn't think he'd done anything recently. He stood outside the door and waited for the First Officer to let him in. "Commander?"

"Lieutenant. I need a favor."

Tom looked startled. "What?"

Chakotay pushed the PADD toward him. "I don't want to know how, but can you quietly put an end to this, before *she* sees it."

Tom picked up the PADD and started reading. After several minutes of silence, he remarked. "Wow. Somebody is doing..." He looked quickly at the Commander. "I haven't heard anything about this, but I'll see what I can do, sir." Tom didn't return the PADD as he turned and left. Chakotay wasn't quick enough to stop him.

#

#

B'Elanna groaned as she dragged herself out of bed. She'd barely got any sleep worrying about that damned PADD and what she was going to do about it, and she felt like hell.

She dragged herself into the shower, and emerged feeling only marginally better. After dressing herself in her uniform, she took the PADD out from under her mattress where she had hidden it {though why she had hidden it there was totally beyond her. It wasn't as if anyone was likely to sneak into her room during the night looking for it!}.

Idly her eyes reskimmed the PADD as she pondered the problem of whether or not to go to Chakotay about it. Going to the Captain was definitely out of the question. Even Chakotay was dicey, seeing as he was as much a victim of the prank as the Captain. But at least she knew he had a sense of humor, where as the Captain was still very much an unknown quantity as far a personal character traits were concerned. She maintained a certain distance from the rest of them, out of necessity B'Elanna assumed. The only one who really knew the Captain on a personal level, besides Tuvok who of course didn't really count being as he was so Vulcan, was Chakotay, and she knew for a fact that even his knowledge of her had certain limits.

She had just resigned herself to approaching Chakotay and handing the matter over to him, when her eyes rested on an unfamiliar passage. Quickly she reread it and then moved on further to what was written beneath it.

Sure enough, suspicions confirmed, she realized that what she was reading was indeed a new addition. Somehow, someone had got to the PADD over night and added an extra bit, that made even B'Elanna, with her hot Klingon blood, blush to the roots of her hair.

How in the name of Kahless, had that happened? The PADD had been in her quarters all night, and apart from the time she had spent showering, it had been within her line of vision the entire time.

Something really weird was going on. Picking up the PADD, she made a beeline for the door. This was entirely way too much for her to handle on her own. It was definitely time to call in the big guns!

#

#

Tom sat up on his bed and looked out his window, then rubbed his eyes. Four hours at Sandrine's, a day's worth of replicator rations lost and he had no idea who had been writing the story. Almost everybody knew about it, most had even read it. All he had really learned was that this story had appeared a week ago--and a new addition appeared each morning. Except somehow the senior staff hadn't heard about it.

He snapped his head around. *Mornings,* he thought as climbed out of the bed and grabbed his robe. He'd left the incriminating PADD on his table. Quickly he looked at it--sure enough. He closed his eyes, blood would be spilt over this. Whoever was writing this would be spending many months in the kitchen or maybe just keel hauled. He jumped when his comm-badge chirped.

"Tom, it's B'Elanna, meet Harry and I in my office now!"

Tom smiled, "B'Elanna?"

"I'm not going to explain--but you'd better get here."

He quickly showered, changed into his duty uniform and bolted out of his room. He stopped, re-entered his room and grabbed the PADD and practically ran to the turbolift.

"Mr. Paris, is something wrong?"

Tom stopped pacing and turned to face the Captain, willing himself to calm down and appear normal. "No, Ma'am. I was supposed to meet B'Elanna and I'm a little late."

Janeway smiled. "No, you don't want to make her wait." They both stepped into the lift. She looked a little puzzled when Tom gave his destination as engineering. There was definitely something going on. Last night it had been B'Elanna and Harry, now Tom and almost everybody she had passed that morning. She would figure out was going on, but not until she'd finished the supply reports with Chakotay.

#

#

Chakotay shifted restlessly in his chair, occasionally stealing a glance at Kathryn Janeway...reviewing supply reports on the console at her desk. He hadnÕt reviewed anything in the five minutes since theyÕd begun their meeting...his mind wandering...to Tom...wondering if heÕd made any progress. He was certain that Tom hadnÕt...if the uneasy glances that crewmembers threw him as they passed in the corridors was any indication. He was also certain that those glances werenÕt reserved for him alone...Kathryn most likely encountered the same treatment.

He again looked across the desk...wondering how much of the crewÕs behavior she had noticed. She wasnÕt a stupid woman...she probably suspected something. He sincerely hoped Tom could put a stop to this...save her from any possible embarrassment.

He returned his attention to the PADD in his hand...trying to get back to the business...supply reports. All he needed was to get caught distracted. SheÕd playfully harass him...then want to know what was on his mind. A place he didnÕt want to go.

*Okay, Chakotay...supply reports.* He started reading through the report...then froze. *Oh god! I grabbed the wrong PADD.* He was positive the PADD heÕd brought with him contained the ships supply reports...but this one...*Shit!* He glanced up...attempting to conceal his confusion. There were no PADDs on her desk...in fact, this was the only one in sight. He couldnÕt have picked it up by mistake. *Wait...Tom took that PADD with him. What the hell is going on?*. He started reading the PADD again. It unmistakably held the contents of the PADD heÕd handed over to Tom.

ÒCommander...is there a problem?Ó

His head shot up. He found himself looking into a pair of mildly concerned blue eyes. *Okay Chakotay...get yourself out of this one.* He smiled disarmingly. ÒIt seems IÕve brought the wrong PADD.Ó

Concern transformed to amusement...and surprise. He was always impeccably prepared for their meetings. She wasnÕt sure what to say...how to react. She looked at the hint of horror behind his eyes...and laughed. ÒSlide your chair over here, Commander. We can share.Ó

He tentatively glanced at the PADD in his hand. *DonÕt do anything to draw her attention to the PADD.* He carefully set the PADD on the edge of the desk, stood up, and pulled his chair around next to hers. As he sat down, he warily eyed the PADD...wondering how the hell he was going to concentrate on supply reports with it perched on the edge of the desk...like a beacon...a harbinger.

Kathryn Janeway studied her first officer out of the corner of her eye...noting the direction of his gaze...the PADD. He looked slightly concerned...nervous. She knew that if she looked at him directly, the mask would be donned...any sign of his concern erased. He wasnÕt aware she was watching. Her gaze drifted to the PADD. *What the hell is going on?*

#

#

Neelix stood in his kitchen carefully stirring the Zenarian stew he was making for the crew's lunch time meal. It took a lot of preparation time which was why he'd had to start so early, but he knew it was one of his more popular concoctions, which made the extra time spent in the kitchen seem well justified.

Morale had been rather low lately. He knew the crew was going a little stir crazy. There had been nothing of note on the scanners for the last month or so and nothing in the immediate future to look forward to. The area of space through which they were currently passing was just that. Space. A huge void of nothingness. Totally boring. The crew was bearing up remarkably well but things had been rather subdued, at least at meal times.

However, over the last week or thereabouts, he had noticed a subtle change. There was a small amount of furtive laughter coming from certain groups in the messhall, as if there was some sort of secret activity being engaged in. A couple of times he had tried to sidle up to a group to listen in on the conversation, but somehow the groups had always been alerted to his presence and the discussions had ceased. He had noticed however, that a data-PADD seemed to be present on all occasions.

This morning had brought a slightly different mood again. Conversations were sparse. Everyone seemed to be on edge, as if waiting for some major catastrophe to befall them. The only people who had seemed unaffected were the Captain, who had been her usual cheery self when she had been in earlier and Tuvok, who sat quietly in the corner eating his breakfast, totally ignoring everything going on around him as was his usual custom. There were admittedly a few who hadn't been in, as was often the case, Commander Chakotay included, but there was definitely something going on. What could it be? He hated being kept in the dark.

He reached down for his jar of Jabalian spice and emptied the last of it into the stew. "Something else to look for on my next shopping expedition," he said to himself as he reached for his data-PADD to make a note of it. Glancing down at it, he quickly realized that he had picked up the wrong PADD. "I wonder whose it is?" he thought. He looked at it more closely, hoping to find a clue as to its owner and suddenly let out a gasp of horror. "Why this is...this is..." he began, before clamping his mouth firmly closed. He continued reading until he came to the end, then he looked up with a ferocious expression. So that was what had been behind all the sniggering. He wondered who had left it there for him to find. He certainly didn't consider it very amusing and neither would the Captain. Had she seen it yet, he wondered?

No, she couldn't have. She had seemed quite cheerful this morning, unlike everyone else, but perhaps someone in authority had got wind of it, which would explain the aura of impending doom he had sensed earlier. Was anything being done about it, he wondered. Maybe he should just keep quiet and hope it died down, but he didn't really like that option.

No! Someone had to put a stop to it before it went any further. The Captain didn't deserve such shabby treatment and it was up to him to see that things were put to rights.

Marching with purpose, he moved to the table in the corner of the messhall, totally unaware of the figure that lurked near the doorway desperately trying not to laugh.

"I'd like to know," he said forcefully in a very affronted voice, "exactly what you intend to do about this," and he plonked the data-PADD down on the table in front of Lieutenant Tuvok.

#

#

B'Elanna looked horrified when Tom showed her his PADD. She then handed him the one she had carefully guarded during the night. The little trio didn't say anything, their minds racing as to who was doing this and how.

B'Elanna shook her head, "Computer. Access and display all entries on this PADD."

The computer twittered, "Searching. There are 8 entries."

The trio looked at the display. Tom whistled. "Eight entries."

Harry tapped a few keys. "This is curious," he said softly. The others turned to look at him. "The eight posts have been made over the last seven days from eight different terminals. The last one was made from Tom's. The first from Tuvok's. I somehow doubt this is Tuvok's work..."

Tom muttered his appreciation of that comment. But leaned over and looked at the data. "Hmm. Whoever is doing this is pretty clever. The additions are added, then programmed to be uploaded into ever increasing number of PADDS three hours later. Computer. Identify the author of the entries."

"Unable to determine," was the expected reply.

"We've got to do something before either of them..." Her voice trailed off when Tom looked at her. "Oh shit."

Tom nodded. "The Commander found out last night. He asked me to look into it. No one knows anything..."

Chirip. They all looked up as Tuvok's voice filled the room. "Would Lieutenants Torres and Paris and Ensign Kim please report to Lieutenant Tuvok's office..."

Harry looked at his friends. "Well, he probably knows too."

#

#

Tuvok impassively studied the faces of the three officers standing before him...noting the tell-tale signs of nervousness. Despite their uneasiness, there was nothing to indicate that they were lying...covering anything up. ÒAnd the computer was not able to provide you with adequate information in order to ascertain the identity of the person responsible for...Ó he held up the PADD that Neelix had given him Òthis?Ó

ÒAdequate information? Try absolutely nothing.Ó Tom said...frustration at the situation matching his confusion.

ÒInteresting.Ó

Tom, Harry, and BÕElanna exchanged mildly annoyed glances. In the last 10 minutes, they had recounted everything they knew about the situation...twice. BÕElannaÕs could feel irritation crawling across her skin...her temper rising...starting to get the better of her. The repeated questioning by Tuvok was the last straw in what had already been a very long twenty-four hours. ÒLook...Lieutenant.Ó she said, rather abruptly. ÒWe are trying to find out what is going on here...we are not responsible for it.Ó

ÒSo I have surmised.Ó

She nodded somewhat apologetically...temper dampened. ÒOkay then...what exactly are we going to do about this? At the rate this is spreading, the Captain is bound to find out...and very soon. We canÕt rightly confiscate every PADD on the ship.Ó

ÒYou are correct, Lieutenant...we cannot confiscate every PADD on board...the Captain would notice such an action.Ó Tuvok stared at a spot on the wall behind them as he raised his chin, bringing his shoulders back...raising an eyebrow. ÒI am at a loss as to how to prevent any further additions from being made...or how to prevent its spread...without first understanding how any of this is being accomplished. If we can understand how the perpetrator is able to remotely make modifications on a global level and how the perpetrator can remotely expand his or her...influence...then we may be able to find a weakness and exploit it.Ó

Harry and BÕElanna glanced at each other and nodded. BÕElanna sighed. ÒWeÕll get right on it.Ó

Tuvok turned his attention to Tom. ÒIn the meantime, Lieutenant, I believe you and I, with the assistance of the Commander, should focus our energies on diverting the CaptainÕs attention.Ó

Tom winced. *Damn.* ÒGreat.Ó

#

#

Kathryn sat in her ready room contemplating. Her meeting with Chakotay had ended and he had departed, making sure that he took the offending PADD with him. Oh, he had tried to appear nonchalant, and had apologized again for bringing the wrong one, but she knew something was up, and what's more, she knew, he knew she knew, even thought they had both pretended that everything was perfectly normal.

What could have possibly been on that PADD that had caused him to act that way. The whole ship had seemed to be acting strangely this morning. There was definitely a problem somewhere. Was it something to do with the Maquis? She thought they had got over those problems quite some time ago. The two crews had blended far better than she dared hope they would.

No! Not the Maquis. It had to be something else. Something...

She sighed. Curiosity! Her mother had always told her she had way too much of it for own good. She had learned to channel it over the years, forging it into one of her greatest strengths. But it still remained one of her greatest weaknesses as well.

Whatever was going on, Chakotay obviously knew about it and probably had things well in hand. He was the one in charge of personnel after all, and was a lot closer to the crew than she was. Maybe he felt it was something that he should handle for now and tell her about later. She knew for a fact that he often went out of his way to shield her from any sort of unpleasantness that he felt did not warrant her attention. She had great faith in her first officer. He had given her his total loyalty since coming on board, even though she knew he hadn't always agreed with her decisions. Shouldn't she therefore, be granting him the respect he deserved, and had well and truly earned, to carry out his duties in the way that he felt was best.

She sighed again, curiosity still nagging. She hated being kept in the dark. Was she or was she not the Captain of the ship? Didn't being Captain give her the right to know everything that transpired on board her vessel. Perhaps she could make some quiet investigations on her own, without being seen to be upsetting Chakotay of interfering with his duties. Tuvok might be of some assistance. He was pretty astute and not much got past him unnoticed. He could usually be relied upon to get to the bottom of a matter, and best of all, he was the model of discretion. And if he already knew anything that perhaps Chakotay had ordered him to keep to himself, well she knew that his first loyalty was to her, so it wouldn't be too hard to get the information out of him. Besides, Vulcans didn't lie. All she had to do was ask him a direct question.

Activating her comm channel, she summoned him to join her, waiting with barely concealed impatience for him to arrive.

#

#

Tuvok looked at Tom, slightly puzzled and a bit alarmed.

"How did she find out so fast?" Harry wondered outloud.

"We do not know for sure she does. But I think we can assume that her meeting with Commander Chakotay is finished. So Lieutenant Paris, it is time for you to come up with a distraction."

Tom looked at the trio, right now cleaning the plasma conduits with his toothbrush had more appeal. "Hell, I don't have any ideas..." Not much distracted the Captain when she set out to do something. He and Tuvok left the security officer's office. Tom fussed and stewed for exactly seventeen steps when he stopped. "Tuvok. I know that it is difficult for Vulcans to lie..."

"That is correct, but with some preparation..."

"I sure hope that fifteen seconds is enough preparation. If she knows about the story then we'll have to come clean--but if she is wondering about the crew's recent behavior..." He looked around, and almost smiled. "Tell her that I'm planning a belated surprise birthday party."

"If I remember, she ordered you not to plan anything for that day."

"Correct, sir. But she didn't order me not to plan anything for another day." Twisted logic, but hell, it had worked before.

Tuvok just raised an eyebrow and they continued.

The bridge was quiet. The usual chatter absent. Even Ensign Russell was silent. Chakotay looked up and frowned when he saw Tom and Tuvok enter. "Ensign Russell, you have the bridge. I'll be in my office." Tuvok waited for the Captain to admit him to her ready-room. Tom and Chakotay went to the Commander's office.

"Well?"

Tom grimaced. "The story is spreading. B'Elanna, Harry, and Tuvok are working on how to stop it." Tom quickly filled him in on what they had learned that morning.

#

#

Tuvok stood patiently as he waited for her to ask the next question. There was no doubt she knew something was going on. He was also pretty sure she had yet to learn about the story.

Janeway stood. "Tuvok, can you tell me what is going on?"

"Captain?"

"Everybody's behavior this morning has been extremely guarded--even Chako...the Commander." She smiled. "So Lieutenant, do you know what is going on?"

"Yes, Captain. Is that all?"

She closed her eyes. She wanted to know what. "What?"

Tuvok hesitated. "Tom is planning a party."

She nodded, "A party..." She looked at him suspiciously. A party was not causing the crew to look at her, the strange silence that followed her around the ship. "Thank-you, Mr. Tuvok." She was convinced there it was more than a party, but Tuvok was not the one to tell her.

She watched him leave, and wondered what her two most senior officers were trying to protect her from.

#

#

The mysterious stranger watched and smiled secretly. *I love it when a plan comes together.*

#

#

Chakotay looked at Tom, shaking his head slowly. ÒDistracted?...great.Ó He snorted. ÒAnd just how does Tuvok expect the three of us to keep her...distracted. SheÕs a very determined woman...a woman who knows something is going on. SheÕs going to see right through us.Ó

Tom smiled, weakly. ÒTuvok is going to tell the Captain that we are planning a belated birthday party for her.Ó Chakotay did not look comfortable...did not look convinced. ÒI know itÕs lame...but itÕs the best I could do on about 30 seconds notice.Ó

Chakotay sighed...turning away to stare out the viewport of his office. ÒTuvok is going to lie?Ó

Tom shrugged...not convinced that Tuvok could actually pull off telling a falsehood. But then, it was his duty to protect his Captain...and Tuvok would do anything to spare her. ÒWell...yes.Ó

Silence filled the room as Chakotay turned the situation over and over in his mind. He struggled with the tangled web he found himself embroiled in. *Damn.* He wasnÕt sure what was worse at this point...lying to Kathryn...or the contents of the PADD. It was a moot point. The course had already been set...the lie already told. *Oh spirits...if she ever finds out...no Chakotay...donÕt go there.* ÒI think we need to start covering our tracks...setting some false trails.Ó Biting his lower lip, Chakotay turned around to face Tom. ÒIf she starts digging around...trying to determine the veracity of TuvokÕs story...weÕre sunk. I want you to set up that party. Go all out. Be obvious without being too obvious. She needs to believe this is what the crew is preoccupied with. And it may buy us some time...throw her off track for a while. At least I hope so.Ó

Tom nodded...smiling slightly...becoming encouraged that this might just work...for a while. ÒIÕll get right on it.Ó

#

#

Kathryn contemplated confronting Chakotay...but, she suspected it would be fruitless. *A party...yeah...right.* She knew how to ferret information. She decided to conduct a covert investigation...determine what was really going on. She would snoop around trying to find out about the party, as well...she knew they were planning one by now...to cover their tracks. Besides...it would divert their attention from her primary investigation.

#

#

B'Elanna looked at Ensign Stern, the young woman who's PADD had started this *terror.* "Details ensign."

The young woman shifted her weight nervously. "I just read the damn thing, Lieutenant. I didn't write it. Honest."

B'Elanna nodded. "Oh, I believe you ensign. But you must have some idea who did?"

"I thought it was Lieutenant Paris, originally. But even he wouldn't, well you know..." The young ensign blushed. Not exactly what you wanted to tell Lieutenant Torres especially if the rumors were true. She continued. "We've talked about it, Joe thought it might be a round robin story. But you know. I wonder if it is..." B'Elanna waited, her impatience starting to show. Which just made the young woman more nervous. "I wonder if it is some sort of computer virus."

B'Elanna shook her head. "Ensign, viruses don't write erotica. But, well know more in a couple of hours. Dismissed." No one had a clue where the stories came from. She'd assigned Harry to do a level one diagnostic on the computer. It would be slow going, but perhaps would tell them something more.

She tapped her comm-badge. "B'Elanna to Tom."

"Hi. We need to talk. How about lunch in 2 hours."

She nodded. Then remembered she had to respond vocally. "Yes. I have Harry doing a level one diagnostic on the computer. He should be finished about then. Tom, look through the navigational logs for eight to 10 days ago."

"All ready did. Nada. Nichts. Nothing. I'm meeting with the Commander and Tuvok. Oh what a tangled web we weave..."

"What?"

"Later. Paris out." He looked at Neelix. "Remember, this is a secret." Neelix shook his head. "And Neelix, if anyone asks we've been planning it for a week."

"Do you really think this will work?"

"You read it. I sure hope so."

Neelix nodded. "One surprise party in three nights. What kind of cake?"

"Chocolate of course."

"Of course." It was the most requested cake. "Between this and lunch, I have to return to my kitchen."

Tom watched Neelix leave. And looked at his PADD. "Let's see, I've reserved holodeck one, arranged for the food. Ensign Nicolletti is taking care of the music. Now to talk to Kes about flowers."

#

#

Kathryn walked into the messhall for lunch. It was as good a place to start as any, she decided. It was full with the usual lunch time crowd chattering noisily, but she would have had to have been a complete idiot not to have noticed the sudden lull in conversation that followed her arrival, and she was certainly not one of those, no matter what certain members of her senior staff might want to believe!

Still, a surprise party, *could* account for it, she supposed, as normal conversation started up again. But she was positive that it was something else entirely and that the party was just a smoke screen. She would just have to tread carefully, bide her time and wait until she could catch someone off guard.

Walking up to the counter, she asked Neelix about the lunch menu.

"It's um, Zenarian stew, Captain," he mumbled. He seemed to be having trouble looking directly at her, which was definitely strange behavior for Neelix. Obviously he was in the know too. Was she the only one in ignorance then?

"Wonderful," she said with as much enthusiasm as she could muster. "It's one of my favorites." She gave him a bright smile, pretending not to notice anything amiss.

"Um, yes, Captain. Many of the crew say the same thing," he replied, as he ladled a generous serving onto a plate for her.

She looked casually around the kitchen.

"You appear to be quite busy in there, Mr. Neelix. Making something special?"

Immediately Neelix appeared to be more at ease. A dead give away that the party was only a ruse, otherwise, why would he have been so happy that she had noticed what he was doing.

His voice dropped to a conspiratorial tone and she leaned forward to listen. "As a matter of fact I am. It's a special dessert I heard ensign Nicolletti talking about once and I thought I'd make it for her as a treat. With morale as low as it has been lately, I thought the crew might appreciate a little something special. You won't let on now, will you Captain?"

"It's a great idea, Mr. Neelix. My lips are sealed."

She thanked him for the lunch and then turned to survey the room, looking for a place to sit. She noticed the three musketeers as she liked to refer to them, Harry, Tom and B'Elanna seated at a table in the corner, deep in conversation. Judging by the occasional covert looks they had flashed in her direction since her arrival, they were obviously deeply involved in whatever it was that was going on.

Chakotay and Tuvok were conspicuously absent, but then again, it was not really unusual. The occasions when the entire senior staff got to eat their meals simultaneously were extremely rare.

She was just about to head for the only vacant table in the room, when she noticed Kes sitting at a table by herself. Changing her mind, she headed in Kes's direction instead.

Kes looked up at her approach, giving her a sincere and very natural smile of welcome. At least someone was acting normally.

"May I join you?" Kathryn asked.

"Of course, Captain," Kes replied in her soft musical voice, "but actually I was just about to leave."

Kathryn sat down and placed a lightly restraining hand on Kes's wrist when she would have risen.

"Stay a moment?"

Kes nodded. "Of course, Captain. How can I help you?"

Kathryn debated with herself about how to proceed and then finally decided to just come right out with it. "Kes, I know there's something going on here. Something more than certain people would have me believe, and I want to know what it is. Do you know anything about it? Will you tell me, what the hell is going on, on my ship?"

Kes studied her face for a moment before speaking.

"Captain, I know this is your ship, and you are the Captain. but if you feel you are being kept in ignorance of something, perhaps it is because it is not necessary for you to know."

With that she rose. "Enjoy your lunch, Captain. It's delicious," she said with a smile, before walking casually away, leaving Kathryn feeling like she had been well and truly put in her place.

She was good, Kathryn had to acknowledge with a rueful shake of her head. It had been done so neatly, and she was only three years old. God help them all when she reached full maturity!

Picking up her fork almost absently, she began to eat. It certainly was delicious, but she hadn't got any answers to her questions. She could of course always pull rank on some unsuspecting ensign and demand to be enlightened, but that was not her way. No, she might have struck out so far, but she still had a few tricks up her sleeve. She'd get to the bottom of things or her name wasn't Kathryn Janeway!

#

#

*Damn.* Chakotay glanced at the empty command chair to his right...then to the ready room door. He cast a nervous glance at Tuvok, who returned the look...slightly raising one eyebrow. *Where are you Kathryn?* She should have returned from her meeting with stellar thirty minutes prior. He had been tempted several times over the last few minutes to ask the computer to locate the Captain. However, all things considered, he thought it best not to add fuel to an already out-of-control fire by doing so in front of the junior officers currently on the bridge. His hands were tied as long as he remained on the bridge. He again glanced at Tuvok and rose from his seat. ÒMr. Tuvok. I have some...business to attend to. You have the bridge.Ó he said as he headed toward the turbolift.

ÒAye, sir.Ó

No one noticed the PADD the Tactical Officer handed to the First Officer as they passed one another. No one noticed the apprehensive look exchanged between them. No one noticed exasperation flood the First OfficerÕs face as he started reading the contents of the PADD, stepping into the turbolift. No one noticed the stranger standing to the right of the main view screen...grinning.

ÒComputer...halt turbolift.Ó

Chakotay quickly skimmed the most recent addition to the...hell...he wasnÕt even sure what to call this. He slowly shook his head as he finished the passage. ÒThis is getting to be almost comedic...in a highly perverted way.Ó The whole situation was. Comedic...and convoluted...to put it mildly. He prayed to the spirits that Kathryn did not run across an affected PADD. *Kathryn.* What was she up to? ÒComputer...locate Captain Janeway.Ó

ÒCaptain Janeway is on Deck seven. Jeffries tube junction nine alpha three.Ó

*What the hell?* ÒComputer...resume turbolift. Deck seven.Ó *What are you up to, Kathryn?* He couldnÕt fathom what she would be doing in a Jeffries tube on deck seven. Without a doubt she was trying to figure out what was going on aboard Voyager...but on deck seven? In a Jeffries tube? He shook his head...in a half-hearted attempt to shake away the confusion.

Once deposited on deck seven, he set off in the direction of her specified location. As he approached the Jeffries tube access door just aft of the junction, he hesitated...then stopped. ÒComputer...locate Captain Janeway.Ó

ÒCaptain Janeway is on Deck seven. Jeffries tube three. Approaching junction seven gamma three.Ó

She was moving starboard. He quickly worked his way through the corridors...to the access portal just starboard of junction seven gamma three. He contemplated just signaling her over her commbadge...but decided against it. A smile slowly crept across his face as he envisioned Kathryn, the spy, crawling through the belly of her ship...looking for clues. He knew she would have attempted to talk to crew members...ask just the right questions...camouflaged well, of course...but to no avail. He was sure no one would divulge the widely held secret...would not want to incur the wrath of the Captain upon themselves. Ah yes...the anonymity of the lower ranks...he envied it sometimes. He steeled himself and entered the Jeffries tube...maneuvered his way to the junction...and waited. *Okay Kathryn Janeway...explain your way out of this one.*

#

#

Kathryn Janeway hesitated as she reached the access portal. She took her tricorder and scanned. *Damn.* Well, another clue in this bizarre puzzle--Chakotay was bound and determined to keep an eye on her. She smiled and controlled the urge to laugh. It was fun, trying to sift through the subterfuge her senior staff was laying in front of her. They had done a good job. The party was just secret enough to be a tantalizing possibility. But she knew something else was going on. Maybe when she solved this mystery, she'd have Tom and Tuvok write her a holo-mystery.

But right now, she had more pressing concerns. Decide what she would tell her first-officer and leave the Jeffries tube--or back up.

She backed up. Not sure why she had been sniffing around the security deck anyway. Swiftly she made her way to the ladder and climbed up to deck 2. With any luck, she'd be able to sneak in and be eating dinner when he'd realized she'd out maneuvered him.

#

#

Chakotay stood there, waiting for his Captain to appear, wondering what she was going to offer by way of an excuse for being in there, and wondering what on Earth he was going to tell her if she asked him straight out why he had followed her in. He hated the subterfuge. He hated lying to her. This whole business had got way out of hand and they were still no closer to finding a solution to the problem.

He thought for a moment. Maybe he could tell her he wanted the opportunity to get her alone for a few minutes--uninterrupted! Now that could be interesting. It wasn't exactly a lie. He would like to get her alone and...Damn. He checked his thoughts. That latest entry had really conjured up some rather vivid pictures in his mind! Get a grip, Chakotay, he admonished himself!

But what would her reaction be if he said that? Would she be angry and threaten to throw him in the brig? Would she blush? As a distraction, it might just work. Was he really prepared to do it though? He considered for a moment. If he thought it would really distract her, then yes he would. He'd be willing to do almost anything to protect her from the humiliation that discovery would bring.

Where the heck was she, anyway? She should have been there by now.

"Computer, locate Captain Janeway."

"Captain Janeway is on deck 2. In the Mess hall."

The mess hall! He should have realized. That woman was extraordinarily resourceful. It had been extremely foolish of him to underestimate her. She had no doubt realized he was there and headed in the opposite direction. He couldn't really ask her what she had been doing there now either or else she would know that he had been keeping tabs on her, a fact she obviously knew anyway. It was all so frustrating.

She was no doubt thoroughly enjoying herself at their expense. She knew something was up and was determined to outsmart them at their own game. He admired her tenacity and ingenuity, but at the same time he felt genuinely sad. Sometimes being smart was a drawback in itself.

"Very clever of you, Captain," he said quietly to himself. "But damn it all Kathryn, how are you going to feel about it when you *do* eventually find out?"

And with a very troubled expression, he made his way back to the corridor.

Upon emerging in the corridor, Chakotay found his thoughts drifting again to the most recent entry. He leaned heavily against the wall...almost groaning audibly. He prayed to the spirits that Harry and BÕElanna were able to get to the bottom of this mess...and soon. He wasnÕt sure how much more he could take...the game of cat and mouse they were playing with the Captain...the allure of the story. He found his focus shifting more and more frequently to the drama being played out in prose...almost wishing it were real. *Shit...youÕre doing it again, Chakotay.* He breathed deeply...pushed himself away from the wall...and headed to the turbolift. ÒDeck two.Ó

#

#

He spied her sitting in the corner...back to the door. He quickly picked up a tray...threw something on it...and headed to her table. He donned the most convincing smile he could muster. ÒMind if I join you?Ó

Kathryn looked up...expecting him. ÒNot at all, Commander.Ó she said...indicating the chair across from her.

He sat down and picked up his fork. For the first time since walking over to her, he looked down at what was on his plate. *Oh great...sheÕs going to know something is up if she...damn...too late.*

She raised an eyebrow...the corners of her mouth curling up...almost, but not quite, suppressing a chuckle. ÒA bit distracted, Commander?Ó

ÒWhat makes you say that?Ó he said...starting to pick at his food...unable to stop the slight frown that creased his brow.

ÒI...uh...thought you were a vegetarian.Ó she whispered.

He feigned surprise, then laughed...shrugging. ÒItÕs so hard to tell exactly what Neelix is serving sometimes.Ó he ventured, pushing the tray away. *Oh...that was smooth.* He wondered what else he could do to make it completely obvious that he was keeping tabs on her. Hell...she already knew...sheÕd purposely given him the slip in the Jeffries tubes. All he was succeeding in doing was adding more reason for her to be suspicious.

She laughed. *God...heÕs cute when heÕs flustered.* She rose from her chair, with Chakotay following suit. ÒWell, Chakotay. IÕve been pretty busy all day...and IÕm afraid IÕve had reports backing up on my desk all day. I think itÕs about time I got back to them.Ó She smiled mysteriously, winked, and walked away.

*Damn.*

#

#

Chakotay swung by engineering. Things were not going well. There had been a few glitches while running the level one diagnostic. Neither Harry nor BÕElanna could explain what had gone wrong. They were in the process of rerunning the tests.

Chakotay asked them to contact him as soon as the tests were complete...no matter the hour...then headed to his quarters.

Verifying that Kathryn was indeed in her ready room, he picked up a PADD from his desk. *Oh spirits...help me.* There was another new entry. The entries seemed to be getting more and more frequent...the content more and more intense. He sighed...and read.

#

#

Janeway stood and stretched. Four reports was all she was good for. She sighed. If she read anymore reports, the Photon Torpedo simulation results would blur with the crew schedules. She exited via her private door--avoiding the bridge and the silent stares she'd seen all day.

In her quarters, a cup of hot cocoa, a sonic shower and she was ready for bed.

#

#

Kathryn Janeway woke feeling uncomfortable and cramped. As her eyes adjusted to her surroundings, she began to remember why she was sleeping on the couch, not her bed. She moaned softly. Her mind still hazy with a bad night's sleep.

She'd been dreaming. Again. A variation on the same dream she'd had every night for the past week.

No, she thought. To be honest, she'd had the same dream for over three years. Ever since that fateful day at the array.

Suddenly she felt angry, at the Caretaker, the Delta Quadrant, him...And herself for falling in love with the man she'd chosen to be Voyager's second-in-command, for not doing something about it--besides dream about it.

"Computer, the time," she called out angrily.

"The time is zero five thirty."

"Well, close enough." The alarm would go-off in half-an-hour. The first thing she did was to replicate a cup of coffee. A rare treat recently.

She showered and dressed for duty, then sat down at her desk. "A Captain's work is never done," she muttered. Her mood a little better after the coffee and shower. She reached over and grabbed Kim's report on the new scanners."

It took her exactly two words to realize that was not what she was reading. A sentence told her this was what her crew was shielding her from.

*His hands slid down her side as he kissed her again. Hard, hungrily. She closed her eyes and returned his kiss, finally allowing freedom to the feelings she had penned up all these years. Her fingers unbuttoned his cream colored shirt. She slid the shirt off his bronze shoulders and let her hands glide across his bare chest. He reached behind her and unzipped the blue dress she was wearing. She could feel fire erupt throughout her being as the dress fell to the ground. They wrapped around each other as they lay on the ground. They kissed again, their hands joining in the exploration, she moaned softly as he kissed his way down her neck, to her breasts. His tongue...*

Kathryn was breathing hard and flushed deep red. *Gods,* she thought. *At least no one was around to see me.* She pushed the PADD away, knowing exactly what happened next, and buried her face in her hands. How could she face anybody after this, her deepest secrets revealed so casually...

She looked up quickly. "How the hell did my dream end up on a data-PADD?"

#

#

Chakotay looked up from the engineering console on the bridge where he was working with B'Elanna, as soon as he heard the turbo lift doors swish open. The Captain stepped through them, in much the same manner as she usually did, but there was a subtle difference. Nothing he could put his finger on, but it was there all the same. She knew. All their efforts to shield her had been for naught. Heads would definitely roll over this!

But instead of issuing orders and calling people into her ready room to account, she simply wished everyone a casual good morning and continued on in alone. Chakotay exchanged a glance with Tuvok, who raised an eyebrow slightly. This was not the way they had expected her to react at all.

"Do you think she knows?" B'Elanna asked quietly beside him.

"Oh yes, she knows all right."

"Then why isn't she tearing someone limb from limb. I know I would be."

Chakotay smiled slightly at that. "Not everyone has your flair for the dramatic, B'Elanna." She scowled briefly in his direction. "But still," he continued, "this isn't quite the reaction I was expecting."

"Perhaps she's pretending she doesn't know, hoping to catch the culprit red handed herself. Though Kahless himself only knows how. We've tried everything we can think of."

"Maybe," said Chakotay, but his thoughts were clearly elsewhere.

"Chakotay?"

"Sorry, B'Elanna, I've got to go talk to her. There's something not quite right about any of this."

She nodded but he wasn't even looking at her. She watched him walk over to speak with Tuvok. This all had to have been hard on him too, she thought. She knew he cared very much about the Captain. Exactly how much she wasn't sure. He wasn't exactly the most open person she had ever met, but it was certainly more than just casual friendship, that he felt. And the fact that the stories had involved him along with the Captain, had to have been rather embarrassing for him. However, he had hardly seemed concerned about himself at all, at least, not that he had let on. It was hard to tell with Chakotay. He was such a master at hiding his thoughts and feelings. The only emotion he had shown was concern for the Captain and how upset she would be. She considered that for a moment. Was she per chance reading too much into it? No, she didn't think so. In fact, the more she thought about it, the more she convinced herself that she was right. She would be almost willing to bet an entire year's worth of replicator rations that Chakotay had in fact, fallen very hard for their Captain.

Chakotay moved towards the ready room door after leaving the bridge in Tuvok's more than capable hands. He didn't have the slightest idea of what he was going to say to her, but he knew he had to speak with her. There was definitely something wrong. He took a deep breath and pressed the buzzer. There was a moment's pause and then he was invited in.

She wasn't sitting at her desk as was her usual custom. A quick perusal of the room found her by the window, staring out at the stars. She didn't turn, so he walked up and stood beside her. For a moment he just stood there, not knowing what to say. She obviously wasn't going to be the one to bring the matter up, so he knew it would have to be him.

"You know, don't you?" he said quietly. She nodded but remained silent, eyes straight ahead, unfocused, unseeing.

"Captain, I'm so sorry," he apologized sadly. "We tried to stop you from finding out. We've done everything we can to get to the bottom of it, but the truth is, we are completely at a loss to explain it."

She still didn't speak. "Captain?" He was beginning to get quite concerned. He'd expected her to be angry, feel humiliated, demand vengeance. What he hadn't expected was for her to just stand there staring out the window as if she'd lost her best friend.

He put his hand on her shoulder. "Captain!" he said again.

"You can call off the investigation, Commander," she said in a flat voice without turning her head.

Chakotay was clearly puzzled. He let his hand fall back to his side. "I don't understand, Captain. Surely you want to know who's been inventing all that..." He broke off. What exactly did you call it? Erotica hardly went close to describing it. "I certainly do."

She closed her eyes briefly at that. At least it was a reaction. What was wrong with her?

She took a deep breath and turned to face him. "You can call off the investigation because I know exactly who has been inventing that..." She obviously couldn't think of an appropriate word either, but the statement got his full attention.

"Who?" he demanded angrily. "When I get through with them..." He broke off as he looked at her. She had a strange look in her eye, a look of vulnerability and almost trepidation.

Immediately, his anger was gone, to replaced by deep concern. She clearly didn't want to tell him. Why? Was she that worried about his reaction? Who was she trying to shield? Kes? Who else did the Captain care enough about to want to protect?

"Who, Captain?" he asked quietly.

She looked him squarely in the eye. "Me," she whispered softly. "It was me."

He didnÕt blink...didnÕt move a muscle. He was too stunned...his mind too busy trying to understand what she had just told him, to fire the proper synapses to permit movement.

He forced himself to move beyond the shock. He opened his mouth as if to speak, then closed it again. Lowering his gaze, he tried to think of what he could say. He looked up again to meet her eyes...there was something in her eyes. His mind and heart were suddenly flooded with a host of questions...yet somehow, he knew she would not be able to provide the answers. Something wasnÕt right...she wasnÕt responsible despite what she had just confessed to him. ÒKathryn...I donÕt think I understand. How are you responsible for this...this...Ó

She slowly shook her head, her eyes never leaving his...hand raised in a plea of silence. ÒI donÕt know how to explain this, Chakotay, but...the passages that the entire ship have found themselves privy to are...Ó she stopped, not sure she could tell him the truth...that they were her fantasies...her dreams. Could he hear what she had to say without trying to go beyond the mystery of how those dreams had been transferred to PADDs all over Voyager? Could he hear her without wanting to discuss those dreams and what they meant? Could he hear her without wanting to discuss her heart...and his? She knew they would have to talk about it, but this was neither the place nor the time.

He stepped closer...sensing her hesitation. He raised a hand to her elbow. He didnÕt want to push her...she looked so vulnerable...a bit nervous...even a bit embarrassed. HeÕd never seen her like this before. It almost frightened him. He wanted to take her in his arms...comfort her...give her his strength...lead her back to her own. There were so many things he wanted to do...and say. He knew that wasnÕt what she wanted or needed...not now. ÒThe passages are...what, Kathryn?Ó he spoke gently...easily.

She studied his face, his hair...finally looking into his eyes again...warm...comforting. ÒSomehow...the dreams I have been having lately have ended up in written form.Ó She raised her hands as she shrugged, shaking her head. ÒI have no idea how...or who...but the content of what has appeared on the shipsÕ PADDs are my invention...my dreams somehow transcribed.Ó

*Her dreams...her dreams about...oh spirits...donÕt go there. This is not the time or place.* He frowned slightly, pushing his attention to her words...backing away from where his heart wanted to go. ÒThe content is yours...but, you werenÕt responsible for entering or distributing the ÕstoryÕ?Ó

She shook her head.

ÒHave you told anyone about your dreams?Ó

ÒNo.Ó

ÒThen how did they...Ó

She interrupted before he could finish his question. ÒI donÕt know.Ó But she sure as hell wanted to find out. She felt the beginnings of anger simmering within the depths of her being. She felt violated. Something personal...something private...had been stolen from her and put on display for the entire ship to view and discuss. Only Chakotay knew the origins of the ÕstoryÕ...she could count on him to be discrete. Yet...she couldnÕt help but feel that her heart had been laid bare for everyone to see.

He watched the changing expressions on her face...recognized the fire beginning to burn behind her eyes. He smiled. He moved his hands up to rest on her shoulders...squeezing gently...reassuring her. ÒWeÕll get to the bottom of this Kathryn.Ó

She offered a small smile...grateful for what he had left unsaid...grateful for what was spoken. ÒWell...it seems we still have a problem. Who is doing this? How is he/she doing it? Why? And how is he/she obtaining the information they are publishing?Ó

Chakotay smiled at her, offering comfort. Her answering smile rocked his soul, but this was not the time or place...

They stood there in a half embrace for several minutes, contemplating the moment. Finally he spoke quietly. "Everybody knows you know..."

"I suppose. Oh gods, how is this happening...How do we explain it to the crew..."

"I think we should continue the investigation. Find the writer." He touched her face with his hand. "And I think you should have the Doctor do a complete examination."

She nodded. "Arrange for the senior staff and department heads to meet in an hour. I suppose I should be angry at you. But considering...Fill me in on the investigation." She had her captain's mask back in place.

"Unfortunately there isn't much to tell. I have a report written. It's in my office. But first I think you should see the Doctor."

"Yes, *Commander.*"

#

#

"I find nothing wrong with you," the Doctor said. "Perhaps if you told me what I should be looking for."

Kathryn looked at her hands, then around sick-bay. It was empty. "Some sort of device that would allow someone access to my thoughts and dreams."

He looked at her with a confused look. "There is no such device. We can monitor dreams, but only in generalities. If you suspect that someone is monitoring you--maybe it is a telepathic link." He adjusted the tricorder and scanned her head. "Nothing unusual. Captain, I don't know; perhaps you should talk to Kes or Tuvok. If it is some-sort-of telepathic link, they might have sensed it."

"Thank-you Doctor. Please don't tell anybody about this..."

"You think someone is using your dreams to write those stories." He sounded as unemotional as Tuvok. She nodded. "Interesting," the Doctor added. "I can give you something to block the dreams. But only for one night."

"I hope we find out who, before I have to do that."

"I presume you will not be making this information available at the meeting."

"Lord, no." She hopped off the bio-bed and walked to the door. "Coming Doctor. The meeting is in ten minutes..."

#

#

Kathryn looked at the senior officers seated around the conference table. Chakotay had passed the word along that the secret was out and they all looked edgy, with the exception of Tuvok, who never looked any different and the Doctor who was only a hologram after all. Even Chakotay seemed slightly less than calm, but she had a feeling he had more than this one problem on his mind.

She began to address them in her usual competent manner. "People, let me begin by saying how much I appreciate your efforts to spare my feelings in this matter. I realize you were put in an awkward position and acted the way you felt was best. However," Her voice took on a note of strong authority. "I want to make one thing perfectly clear. I do not want a repeat performance under any circumstances whatsoever. If there is a major problem such as this, I need to know about it. How am I to maintain a position of authority on this ship when even my senior officers go behind my back?" Her eyes moved around the table, looking at each in turn. Chakotay could only admire her poise and confidence, knowing that inside she was a sea of conflicting emotions. If he had ever doubted her complete professionalism, he could no longer. When her eyes reached his, there was just a trace of vulnerability, that was gone so quickly, he almost wondered if he'd imagined it.

She was speaking again and he dragged his attention back. "I now consider that matter closed, leaving us with the problem of who is doing this. I have read Chakotay's report. Does anyone have anything further to add?"

B'Elanna looked at Harry, who nodded. "Captain," she began, "we have run every type of diagnostic we can think of and have even invented a few new ones. We have come up with nothing to explain what has been happening. The only explanation we have to offer at the moment is..." she glanced again in Harry's direction, "that there are outside forces at work here."

"Outside forces? What do you mean? What proof do you have?"

This time it was Paris who spoke. "Captain, we have questioned everyone on board. Although most people got a kick out of reading the...material, you are regarded with great respect by this entire crew, StarFleet and Maquis alike. There is no-one on board who would invent such...let alone spread it around. We are convinced that it had to have come from someone other than a member of this crew."

Kathryn flicked a glance at Chakotay, but he remained silent, his face a passive mask.

"And the how?"

Harry answered. "It could not have been achieved by anyone on this ship, Captain. That's the bottom line."

"I concur, Captain," Tuvok put in. "What has transpired, is not humanly possible. My analysis would indicate an alien of some kind."

"An alien?" Kathryn pondered the point for a moment and then her eyes opened wide as a thought occurred to her. Grabbing one of the offending PADDS, she scrolled back to the top. How in heaven's name had she missed it, she berated herself? The answer was so obvious it was a wonder it hadn't jumped up and bitten her.

The entire group watched in bewilderment as their captain rose from the table with purpose. "All right, joke's over," she said in her sternest voice. "Get your sorry excuse for a butt in here. Now!"

ÒTsk...tsk...tsk. There is no need to get so testy, Kathy.Ó Q. He had appeared...lying in the center of the conference room table...on his side...propped up on one elbow...facing Kathryn. ÒOne would hardly guess that under that brusque exterior lies the heart of a...Ó

ÒQ!Ó

Q smiled...then turned his attention to Chakotay...who was now standing, as was the entire senior staff, staring down at the centerpiece. ÒWhy...if it isnÕt the erogenous zone himself. Read any good books lately, Commander?Ó

Chakotay tensed imperceptibly...opened his mouth, intending to respond...but was cut off when he felt a hand on his arm. Kathryn. She moved to stand next to him...slightly in front...between him and Q. ÒQ...I want to know what the hell is going on here.Ó

Q pushed himself up...and sat cross-legged facing Kathryn. He rested his elbows on his knees...hands folded...index fingers steepled...as he leaned toward her, voice lowered. ÒI think weÕve established the ÔwhoÕ. Knowing that automatically eliminates the need to explain the ÔwhatÕ, ÔwhereÕ, ÕwhenÕ, and ÔhowÕ. I guess that leaves the ÔwhyÕ.Ó

Tom Paris stepped forward. ÒOh...I donÕt know Q. I have a lot more questions than just ÔwhyÕ. LetÕs discuss the subject matter for a moment.Ó

Q shot an annoyingly amused look in TomÕs direction. ÒYou didnÕt seem to mind the subject matter while you were reading it, helmboy. In fact...you garnered a few pointers for those late-night rendezvous between yourself and a certain...Ó

ÒQ!Ó Kathryn interceded...glancing quickly at BÕElanna...silently ordering her to hold her position and her tongue. Satisfied with BÕElannaÕs compliance, she turned back to Q. ÒEnough with the repartee. I want some answers.Ó

Q slid off the table...standing within inches of the Captain. Leaning into her, he pressed his lips to her ear. ÒDo you really want everyone here to know ÔwhyÕ, Kathy?Ó he whispered.

She stiffened slightly, glancing briefly into the faces of her senior officers...then at Q, who had moved to stand behind the chair next to her. He was smiling that incredibly insufferable smile of his. *Damn.* Q was right. This had to be handled discreetly...she couldnÕt allow certain aspects of this situation to become public knowledge. And any conversation in which Q was a participant was far from discreet. Unless she was prepared to reveal from where Q derived his literary inspiration...no...she wasnÕt prepared to do that just yet. She turned to face her officers. ÒThe Commander and I will handle this from here. Thank you everyone. Dismissed.Ó She glanced at Q, then met ChakotayÕs eyes. ÒGentlemen, shall we adjourn to my ready room?Ó

Tom watched them leave, "Now what was that about?"

Harry shrugged his shoulders. "At least we know how...And it isn't like he used her dreams or anything." With that Harry left, leaving the Lieutenant alone in the room. Tom picked up the PADD and started rereading it. "Harry, Harry," he muttered quietly as he read. A slow smile spreading across his face.

#

#

Janeway turned to look at Q, with a look that could kill a targ. "You are insufferable..." The trio was alone in her ready-room.

"You told Chuckles here the source of my literary achievements. Do you think I should submit it to Pocket Books. I'd be the first in my family to be so honored." He stood there looking pleased with himself.

"Why?" She asked as she moved to stand next to Chakotay.

"Kathy, I'm disappointed in you. Why this second-rate Indian, when you could have had..." He pointed to himself, "...me. I know it's not the tattoo, nor is it sex--you've just dreamed about..."

"Go away." She looked down at the floor. Trying to hide her red cheeks.

Chakotay his hands on her shoulders. "Do you always invade one's privacy?"

Q shrugged. "The more private the better. Kathy, I would never have believed you capable of such thoughts--without first-hand knowledge. Is it really possible to..." He laughed at the murderous look she threw him. "What did you think of them, Chuckles?" He grinned that knowing grin, making both Kathryn and Chakotay uncomfortable. He walked over and pushed his elbow in Chakotay's side. "Pretty hot, huh..." He pulled the bottom of his grey uniform jacket down and straightened it. "Well kiddies...I've had a wonderful idea. I've got this friend..."

"You...have a friend?" Chakotay asked.

Q continued, ignoring the interruption. "He's a captain too--or is it Admiral." He waved his hand dismissively. "I think I might try this with him. Consider yourselves a trial experiment..." He winked. "I'll be back to check the results..." He started to snap his fingers, then looked at Kathryn in her red uniform, then at his grey one. "Kathy, your fashion sense is sorely behind the times." He snapped his fingers and was gone.

Kathryn sighed and pushed her fingers up over her brow. "The man is a menace. What will the crew think?"

"They'll probably agree, he's a menace. Kathryn, no one knows, except you and I and...the *menace* that you've been dreaming about me." He looked down in her eyes and whispered very quietly, "Maybe I should tell you some of my dreams."

She moved away from him and closed her eyes.

"Kathryn?"

She smiled, "Dinner?" He nodded.

#

#

Kathryn stood in the middle of her quarters trying to will herself to calm down. She, who without the need for false modesty, was almost totally unflappable on the bridge during a crisis situation, was as nervous and as skittish as a young colt first trying out its legs. He would be there any tick of the clock and she dreaded and anticipated his arrival in equal measure.

She had dressed carefully for the occasion. Her dress was a simply cut creation that matched the color of her eyes and most of her hair had been left to hang loose, with just a tiny amount tied up at the back with a matching blue ribbon.

Dinner had been programmed into her replicator. Knowing her cooking abilities, he would no doubt be expecting it to be replicated. She smiled, as she recalled some of her attempts at cooking on New Earth and his valiant attempts to eat them. He was the chef of the pair of them, not her.

The pair of them! Yes, they were indeed a pair. Their lives had merged together during the previous three years and at times it was almost impossible to tell where the professional relationship ended and the personal one began. Now they were looking to further strengthen the relationship by adding an intimate side to it. As much as she wanted to welcome the change and accept it with open arms, she couldn't help feeling a great deal of trepidation. What if things didn't work out? There was no where for either of them to go. Could their professional relationship continue to stand if the private one fell apart?

She shook her head in exasperation. *Just listen to yourself, Kathryn. How many people go into relationships trying to cover all the bases if it doesn't work out? If you keep this attitude, you'll jinx the whole thing before it even has a chance to get started.* She sighed. Chakotay was a wonderful man. Their relationship had just as much chance of succeeding as anyone else's, and probably a hell of a lot more seeing as they already knew each other so well. *Let's face it, Kathryn, if you'd had stayed on New Earth very much longer, you would have already been lovers. Stop trying to fight what you know in your heart and soul is right. Just let it happen.*

She smiled. She always liked it when she gave herself the advice she really wanted to hear.

Just then the door chimed. He had arrived. She took a deep breath. She still felt a little nervous, but she felt perfectly at ease, knowing that what she was about to do was exactly the way it was supposed to happen. With a happy smile of welcome on her face, she moved to open the door.

The door slid open...revealing a uniform clad First Officer. Her eyes quickly surveyed his attire...then returned to his face. She attempted to keep the disappointment and confusion she felt from showing. She smiled. ÒHi. Punctual...as usual.Ó She stepped aside to allow him access. ÒPlease...come in.Ó

He proffered a hint of a smile as he stepped just inside. He stopped a few paces from her...turning his head to look at her. ÒYou look...wonderful.Ó

She looked down at her dress as she moved to stand in front of him...his eyes following her as she went. ÒThank you.Ó Again, her eyes dropped to his uniform.

He noted the direction of her stare. He knew that coming here in uniform was not what she was expecting. But then, he wasnÕt sure what was expected. And he needed to know. He needed to know what the hell was happening. It was only this morning that he had discovered the source of the stories that had infiltrated the ships PADDs...stories that in his wildest fantasies danced on the edge of reality. It was only this morning that he had uncovered her feelings for him...though, she had never come right out and admitted to having any feelings for him at all...they were just dreams. HeÕd had dreams about lots of people...women...hell, even men...and it didnÕt mean anything. He needed to know if her dreams meant anything to her...if he meant anything to her. Or, was this just the logical end to another misadventure with Q. He watched her face...waited until her eyes raised...locked with his. ÒKathryn...Ó

She knew the instant the door opened, that he wasnÕt going to make this easy for her. And yet...he made everything easy for her. So easy. So easy to invite him to stand by her as they brought Voyager home. So easy to have him at her side, every day...through life...through death. So easy to talk to. So easy to argue with. So easy to call friend. So easy to love. ÒChakotay.Ó

ÒWe need to talk.Ó

ÒSo I gather.Ó she teased, indicating his uniform.

He sighed...then gave her a slightly apologetic look. He didnÕt want to make things any harder for her...or him. It would be so easy to fall into this...for all the wrong reasons. But he couldnÕt...she meant too much to him. He followed her to the couch, and sat down...beside her.

They sat in silence for several long seconds, as he gathered his thoughts...measured his words. Finally, he turned his body to face her...left shoulder resting against the back cushion...left leg pulled up onto the couch...left ankle hooked under his right knee. He rested his left arm on his left thigh, right hand absently rubbing the fingers of his left. ÒKathryn...Ó he stopped...lowered his eyes...exhaled heavily. *Shit...I canÕt do this.* Biting his lower lip, he shook his head...silently rebuking himself *Damn it, Chakotay...donÕt walk in here...and leave her hanging. She deserves better.* He breathed in...looked up to meet her eyes...found his center. ÒWe never discussed what happened with Q. We need to talk about...the story. Your dreams. I need to know what they mean. I need to know whatÕs in here.Ó He reached out and splayed his right hand between her breasts. ÒI need to know what youÕre feeling...what youÕre thinking. I need to know why IÕm here.Ó

She quietly reached up...and rested her hand over his. All that he wanted to know...was there within her heart. Were words really necessary? Slowly, she raised her hands...cupping his face in them. He raised his own, encircling her tiny wrists. He attempted to pull her hands away from him, but she wouldn't let him. Gently she pulled him to her, as she raised her chin...brushing her lips over his...neither asking nor demanding a thing from him. Her lips traced the line of his jaw to his ear. ÒMy heart...my mind...my soul...are yours.Ó she whispered. Her lips found their way back to his. ÒI love you, Chakotay.Ó

She inhaled his breath, letting it fill her, as she pressed herself against him. His warmth spread through her...filled her lungs...lower to her belly, leaving a tingling sensation in the pit of her stomach and lower. Quietly, she pushed herself away from him...out of his arms that had somehow trapped her in their embrace.

As he watched, she slowly began to unbutton her dress. The ache in his heart took a quick turn south. ÒKathryn...what are you doing?Ó

ÒRealizing my dreams.Ó

She took his hand and guided it beneath the opening in her dress bodice. He started as the soft, smooth weight of an unbound breast filled his palm. Breath hung at the back of his throat...caught between a sigh and a moan. With a groan, he pushed the dress off her shoulders, giving himself a full and unfettered view of the woman she was. But, looking wouldnÕt be enough for the man heÕd become.

One of them moved, but neither would remember whoÕd taken the first step. There were no words.. no thoughts...only the sensation of soft cool leather against suddenly bare bodies. He burned, his erection fully extended as it thrust against her soft belly, waiting for an invitation. When his head dipped toward her breast, his tongue encircled a hard, brown peak...she gasped...then dug her fingers into his hair.

Her invitation had come, and there was no need for a response, because he was already there. Aware of nothing but what he was feeling, he rocked within her, testing the unexpected tightness. He lost everything but his mind in the sweetness of Kathryn.

His breathing quickened and his body burned as he buried his face in the curve of her neck and himself inside her. It had been so long. The sensation overpowered him as he whispered, rasping into her ear. ÒKathryn.Ó

Her hands moved across his back, tracing the power of the man, following the ebb and flow of his muscles as they tensed and then released. Over and over, he came and went within her until her body began to tense...her mind began to spin. SheÕd almost forgotten the sensation of the loss of self. That moment when love explodes...flows...combines, one with the other. When it came, she thought she was ready...she was wrong. She gasped...clutching at him...almost frightened as her body overcame her mind.

Chakotay knew when sheÕd lost control, and savored the knowledge that heÕd been the one to bring her pleasure. Moments later, he followed...sanity lost. He had no idea how long they lay there...bodies entwined...before sleep embraced them.

#

#

She woke slowly. Her mind remembering what had happened. Where she was, why it was so cramped...She ran her left hand over his shoulder. "Wake-up."

"Mmmm."

"My whole body is asleep." She was flexing her toes, trying to restore the circulation.

He laughed as he looked around. "Morning?" He kissed her.

She returned the kiss, which was fast becoming more. "Hmmm. Not morning yet. I think you should take me to bed."

"Is that an order, Captain?"

She laughed, "Does it have to be?"

"No Ma'am." He stood and pulled her off the couch into his arms. He picked her up and carried her to her bed.

#

#

Tom sat on the edge of the bed reading a PADD. After Q's visit and explanation, the so-called story had been deleted from the system and all PADDS. He smiled. Well almost all of them.

It was what Q hadn't said, the way Janeway had dismissed the senior staff and continued the conversation with Q and Chakotay.

The crew had been told the story was a working of Q's bizarre imagination...An attempt to embarrass the Captain and Commander...

But Tom wasn't convinced. He stopped reading as a pair of arms encircled his waist. "If either of them find out you have a copy, you'll be cleaning the plasma conduits with a feather."

He laughed as he leaned over and kissed Voyager's Chief Engineer. "Then we'll just have to make sure they don't find out...You know, there is still something funny about all this..."

"The only thing funny is you." She pulled him down to her. "The Commander's in love with her you realize..."

"B'Elanna--we all know that. I think that Q transcribed her dreams..."

"Well, that would explain why Chakotay was in her quarters this evening." She smiled.

Tom grinned. "Computer locate Commander Chakotay."

"Commander Chakotay is in Captain Janeway's quarters."

#

#

Morning came, and with it the realities of life. Kathryn lay there quietly for a few minutes, savoring the feel of his arm around her. It felt wonderful. She felt wonderful. Last night had been far, far better than anything she had imagined in her dreams, but now it was time to move forward. How were they going to play it?

Chakotay tightened his arm around her slightly and she knew he was awake too. "Chakotay?"

"Mmm," he said.

She rolled over so that she was facing him. He looked totally at peace and was smiling at her. She smiled back, suddenly a little shy, which was totally ridiculous since she had been the one who had initiated the entire thing. She lowered her eyes for a moment.

He must have sensed it because he reached forward and kissed her forehead. "Don't tell me that under that incredibly passionate woman who knows exactly what she wants and how to get it, there lurks the heart of a shy little school girl." His voice was teasing and it made her laugh.

She looked back at him and saw the warmth in his eyes, knowing that the same thing was reflected back from her own. All it would take was a touch in the right place and they would both be lost again. But she didn't move, and neither did he. They both knew they had to talk first.

"How do you want to play this?" he asked her.

"I'm not sure. I've never been one for clandestine affairs and I think it would be impossible to keep a secret on this ship any way. All anyone would have to do is ask the computer for our whereabouts and the secret would be out."

He nodded. "I think that by now everyone is well and truly aware of my feelings for you. So really, the only thing to consider is how/if you want them to know that you return them."

"Do you think they'll mind? I mean, I am the Captain and..."

"Kathryn, we've all been together for a long time. You are well liked and highly respected. My honest opinion is that everyone will be truly happy for you."

She smiled sincerely at him. "Now I know why I love you so much. You always know the right things to say." She took a deep breath. "Okay, this is my take on the situation. We show up on the bridge this morning, obviously together. I don't think it will take long for news to travel. When we're on duty, it's strictly by the book, but the rest of the time is our own. Do you think we can handle that?"

He chuckled at her. "Kathryn, I have been 'handling the situation' for the past three years. I think I can manage. The question is, can you?"

She looked back into his eyes. "I think I'll do just fine, so long as you remember to keep your hands to yourself," and so saying, she reached out a hand to touch his chest in a provocative way. "But for the moment, I'd rather your hands not be at attention."

He laughed delightedly and reached forward to pull her into his arms once again.

#

#

Tom Paris sat on the bridge, with a very satisfied smile on his face. Well, he was satisfied for two reasons, but the less personal one was because he was sure he was right about the dreams scenario. The fact that the commanding officers were almost 5 minutes late for duty this morning spoke volumes as far as he was concerned. He glanced across at B'Elanna, but she just shrugged her shoulders.

Then came the sound of the turbo lift doors opening and the whole bridge crew turned to observe the sight. Talk about a grand entrance, thought Paris. They both stood there for a moment, side by side, obviously together, with huge smiles on their faces. Then Chakotay put his arm briefly on the Captain's back, just below her neck, in a possessive gesture, before they separated and headed for their bridge positions.

Paris turned back to his chair, his smirk even bigger. He was just wondering how he could use his PADD to advantage, when he became aware that he was not alone. He looked up in confusion to see his two commanding officers, one on either side of him, looking down on him with deadly intent. He glanced nervously from one to the other. How had they known?

The Captain put out her hand. Not a word was spoken. None was necessary. Slowly Tom reached inside his uniform jacket and pulled out the offending PADD, placing it carefully in the Captain's hand.

"Any more?" Chakotay inquired in that deceptively quiet voice of his.

Tom shook his head.

"I hope for your sake that there isn't." Again that quiet voice was directed at him, more powerful in its softness than any raised voice could ever be.

Then, the Captain leaned forward so that she was on direct eye level with him. Her blue eyes as hard as he had ever seen them, making him move his head back slightly, involuntarily.

"And Mr. Paris, if I ever hear even so much as the slightest rumor about where those stories might have come from, I'll have you degaussing the hull under enemy fire with a toothbrush. Have I made myself perfectly clear?"

"Yes, Ma'am," he managed to mutter weakly.

"Sorry, Mr. Paris, I don't think the Captain quite caught that," Chakotay who was leaning down on the other side of him, put in softly, his eyes as steely as flint.

Paris looked totally flustered as he looked from one to the other. "No, Sir, I mean yes, Sir. I mean. Yes, Ma'am." he finished loudly.

Kathryn straightened and patted him briefly on the shoulder. "I'm so glad we have that all sorted out." She smiled across at her first officer as they headed back to their seats.

"And now Mr. Paris, report," she commanded.

Tom dared a glance in B'Elanna's direction, but was dismayed to see her trying valiantly not to laugh and shaking her head in that 'Paris will you never learn fashion,' as he began his report.

"Speed, warp 6. Heading..."

In the center of the bridge, Kathryn looked across as Chakotay. He smiled at her, giving her a wink before turning his eyes to his console.

As she continued to look in his direction, she caught sight of another figure, standing silently on the edge of the bridge. Like Chakotay, he smiled and gave her a wink. She nodded her head slightly in acknowledgment before the grey of his uniform faded into nothing and he was gone again.

Kathryn stared at the empty space for a moment, reflecting. It would seem, that for once in his miserable existence, Q had actually done something right, and with a little smile on her face, she turned her attention back to Paris's report.

When he'd finished, she grinned and winked at her First Officer. "Oh, and Tom. The party for tonight. I'm looking forward to it."