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Tom straightened and rubbed his back. He had been working on the matter-antimatter containment chamber for two hours, and his muscles were killing him. *Well, at least the chamber is ready to go.* he told himself. He smiled, B'Elanna would probably complain about his handiwork for months. "Well, she'll just have to live with it, I'm a pilot, not an engineer." he said aloud.
"What was that?" asked D'vel as she stuck her head out from the panel next to him.
"Oh, nothing. I was just thinking of the fit our Chief Engineer will be throwing when she finds out all these strangers have been poking around inside her engines."
D'vel looked at Tom closely and grinned. "Maybe so, but I think you can handle her."
Tom blushed. His embarrassment was cut short when D'vel let out an audible gasp. "What's wrong."
D'vel's eyes were momentarily clouded by fear before she regained control of her emotions. "The government has attacked the brotherhood. There has been gunfire at the location in which we were caring for your Captain. Also they have stepped up their demands for access to the ship. They will be sending over a battalion of troops to oversee our efforts."
Tom's voice was low and steady. "How long?"
"Immediately."
Tom turned and sprinted toward the area Tuvok was working in. Stopping he opened a supply chest and retrieved every weapon he could get his hands on. "We'll be in the tubes. Contact us when you can." he called over his shoulder as he rounded the corner.
#
#
B'Elanna knew something was wrong. They had been traveling quickly through the tunnels until a half an hour ago. Now they were suddenly confined to a small room. She growled. "I don't like this. Something is definitely wrong. Kes, can't you learn anything?"
"I'm sorry B'Elanna, but the Efirmans aren't telling me anything. I can tell they are very concerned about something that just happened. I think it occurred at the place we were headed to. I can't tell you more than that."
"Well, at least it's some information." said Harry, trying to look on the bright side of the situation.
"But not enough." grumbled B'Elanna as she rose and crossed the room. Pounding on the door she called out. "Hey! Someone come talk to us. I need to know what is happening."
It didn't take long for someone to open the door. "Please," whispered S'car, we must remain quiet if we do not wish to be captured."
"Captured?" whispered B'Elanna. "Captured by whom?"
"The government has attacked the main hall of the brotherhood. They are searching the corridors for the rest of us. They will not find many, most of the others were able to escape in the maze of tunnels we have constructed for this day. But, we are cut off from any escape. We will have to remain here until they find us or give up looking."
"What of our commanders? Are they still down here?"
"Yes, but I can not tell you any more. They were with our leaders as the attack began. Anything more is unavailable."
B'Elanna did not even hesitate. "I'm going in there. I have to know if Janeway and Chakotay are still free. I have to know if they are still alive."
"That would be most dangerous." argued S'car.
"Maybe, but the two of them would do the same for me. I would give my life a hundred times for either of them, you can not stop me."
"Or me," added Harry.
"I'm afraid the three of us are in agreement, S'car." said Kes stepping up beside B'Elanna. "We will go with or without you. I can tell that the brotherhood is divided on this issue, but we will attack. If you are planning some action to retake your base you should set it in motion now."
S'car studied the aliens confronting her. She did not understand their confidence, but she respected their bravery. "Very well, follow me and I will take you to the strike team."
#
#
Kathryn fired a quick shot at the Efirman soldier bearing down on her. Quickly checking to make sure he was not accompanied, she pulled his body into one of the small rooms nearby. She had been lucky so far. Only three soldiers had pursued her down this corridor, and she had neutralized all of them. She hoped her luck could hold out until she could rescue Chakotay.
*Stop, Kathryn!* she warned herself. *If you start thinking about him you will start to cry. You can't do him, your ship, your crew or yourself any good if you let fear for him devastate you. Keep moving!*
Swallowing the fear and worry, Kathryn rounded a corner. She was fairly certain she was nearing the original chamber again, the tunnels had continued to turn right, and she had not found an exterior tunnel. She slowed as she heard voices. Peering around a column she saw two Efirman soldiers talking. They seemed to believe they had the situation under control, their guns were held absently and they were concentrating on one another and not the room. *Sloppy.* thought Kathryn professionally.
Being careful not to make a sound Janeway crept as close as she dared to the bright room. She could see several members of the brotherhood in chains and seated on the floor. One young man dropped his head and she caught sight of her First Officer seated behind him. Her heart soared at the sight of him. He was alive! She would make it back to him.
Kathryn's heart stopped beating as his head came up and his eyes flew directly into hers. He tried not to react, but Kathryn could see his relief and pleasure at seeing her. How had he known she was here? Had he sensed it, could he really be so attuned to her that he could sense her across a wide and hostile territory?
Kathryn's musing was cut short by activity near the door. Crouching low she waited to see what was developing. Whatever it was, perhaps it would be enough diversion to rescue Chakotay and the brotherhood.
#
#
Tom stopped suddenly and laughed. Tuvok turned and looked at him--as only the Vulcan could. "Think creatively. I wonder if Efirmans have any idea what a holodeck is?
Tuvok looked at Tom and quirked an eyebrow. "Interesting idea." He paused for a second. "You arrange the holodeck and I will beam them in. You might be interested in Security Protocol Epsilon three. It's a complete layout of the ship."
Tom grinned. "Do you still have the Kazon personnel programs?"
Tuvok nodded and headed toward the transporter room, while Tom made his way to the holodecks.
Tom smiled wickedly. A few Kazon, Klingons...elements of level seven from his Klingon exercise program. Safeties off. Too bad he wouldn't be able to watch.
#
#
Kathryn watched the door--the two guards' attention was held there. She moved to a better position and fired. Two shots rapid succession and the guards dropped. The prisoners glanced at her quickly then at the door. She moved again to get a better angle to shoot the newcomers. She didn't look at her First Officer but was aware of his approving look.
**Don't Kathryn. The newcomers are friends.**
She didn't recognize the presence and looked around quickly.
**It's me, C'mel.** Kathryn recognized the name of the young girl. **I'm here with J'noh and seven others in the next room**
**Friends?**
**My Aunt, S'car and three members of your crew. There are no government troops in your vicinity.**
Janeway lowered her newly acquired weapon. Chakotay looked at her in surprise. "It's all right." She automatically raised her voice and repeated the assurance before remembering the others probably already knew. "J'Noh and C'Mel's aunt has arrived with some of the crew."
At that moment, a disheveled group entered the chamber. An unfamiliar Efirman female was in the lead, but Torres, Kim, and Kes were at her heels. Janeway's trained eye immediately took in the gash on the engineer's brow, the way Kim was holding his left arm, and Kes' blood-spattered clothing. The Efirman woman moved with a limp.
"Captain!" Torres exclaimed, hurrying towards Janeway, her eyes took in the first officer among the shackled prisoners.
"We're all right, B'Elanna. Are any of *you* hurt?"
"Not seriously."
"Voyager?"
Torres shook her head. "All the crew is safe. Tuvok and Tom are still on the ship, though. They stayed to ensure the escape pods were launched. That's all I know." Torres looked back to the Efirman woman who'd arrived with them. "This is S'Car. She risked herself to led us here."
Janeway nodded to the woman, glancing towards the Efirmans who were moving among their imprisoned comrades and removing the chains. She spotted C'Mel, and J'Noh, already freed, removing Chakotay's chains. She went to her first officer and squatted beside him. "Chakotay?"
"I'll be all right. I still can't feel my leg," Chakotay said.
Janeway clapped his shoulder. "Sit tight. I'm going to get you back to Voyager, as soon as I can."
Chakotay nodded and Janeway joined the Efirmans and their impromptu war council. "I want to know what's happening with my ship."
#
#
"Computer, seal the holodeck. Allow access only to myself. Lock Override: Elvis." Tom tapped his communicator. "Paris to Tuvok. We're ready here, Lieutenant."
"Acknowledged, Lieutenant. Energizing transporter."
**Will this work, Tom? How long do you expect to keep the troops in there?** D'vel asked. She had arrived just moment earlier.
"They won't even know where they are, D'vel." Tom chuckled. "Let's join Tuvok."
D'vel was looking at him in confusion, his thoughts not clarifying anything. "I'll try to explain. The holodeck creates images of people and places that are as real as reality..."
D'vel shook her head, **No wonder the government wants your ship.**
Tom grinned, as he pulled her up into the Jeffrey tube.
Tuvok looked up from the console of the transporter room when Tom and D'vel entered. "I have been able to access communications between the ship and the planet. "We have less than three hours to regain control of the ship." Tuvok looked at Tom. "I have also located Neelix and the escape-pods from the port side. Atmospheric disturbances over the desert where those in the starboard-pods landed have made it difficult to locate the others." I can locate seventy five personnel. The largest group is fifty four."
Tom nodded, as he looked over the Vulcan's shoulder. "And the holodeck?"
"I have beamed ten Efirmans into the program." Tuvok quirked an eyebrow. "The armed Klingons have them terrified." The console blinked. "They are beaming in ten more..." Tuvok quickly transported the new arrivals into the holodeck. "I show ship repairs will be complete in less than one hour. I suggest we use that time to beam the crew back on board. Lieutenant, man the transporters in cargo bay one...Arm everybody and wait for my signal. How many of the brotherhood are on board?" He asked D'vel.
**Just my Captain and myself. I'll help...**
#
#
J'noh smiled at the Captain. **Thank-you.**
Janeway shook her head, **We haven't done anything.**
The Efirman didn't respond as he sank to the floor, C'mel ran quickly to his side. Janeway moved to join her.
"How is he?" Janeway asked.
"Unconscious, again. He was hit on the head." C'mel's head looked around quickly. "They're leaving?" The Efirmans stood. Those that could picked up the injured..."We must leave here," C'mel said to Kathryn. "They have placed explosives." Harry and B'Elanna quickly went to help the Commander up. Using them as support he hobbled after the departing Efirmans. Janeway helped C'mel with J'noh. The group made their way to the back passages as the first explosion occurred.
#
#
Samantha and Joe had organized the remaining crew into forage teams. With the setting sun, these teams had set out to find water and food. Samantha sat down next her toddler, who was blissfully oblivious to what was happening. There was a rumbling sound, then the ground shook briefly.
Everybody quickly exited the cave as a few rocks fell...then there was silence.
#
#
Tom smiled as the last group of Voyager crew members materialized in the cargo bay. The Efirman government had done them a favor by beaming in their troops ten at a time. He had easily piggybacked his transport on theirs. Voyager was now almost fifty-percent re-staffed, and they had no idea.
"Paris to Tuvok." he called.
"Go ahead, Lieutenant."
"Sir, that's everyone. We are armed, and briefed and ready for action."
"Very well. Stand by please." There were a few moments of silence as Tuvok completed whatever task was occupying his attention and then he began issuing orders. "Mr. Paris, assign twenty officers to report to me outside the holodeck. All engineers should report immediately to engineering, make sure they have enough qualified assistance. You are to take command of the Bridge until I am able to return. Do you have any questions?"
"No Sir." answered Tom, grinning from ear to ear at the thought of retaking the ship. "Lets move people, you heard the man."
#
#
The explosion inside the caves had barely stopped before Wildman spotted the cause. Armed Efirmans dotted the cliffs and cave entrances. "Joe, we've got to get out of here. I don't need to be telepathic to know that those Efirman's are not of the brotherhood."
Carey looked in the direction she had indicated. Nodding his head sharply he began to rally the crew. "Everyone head for the escape pods."
As shots from the Efirman's lasers began to bite into the sand near their feet the crew dashed away into the desert night. "Lieutenant Carey, are you sure this is wise?" questioned the Doctor as he ran easily beside the engineer, his holographic body unaffected by the rigors of the dessert. "This environment will quickly debilitate most of the crew, only Ensign Voric has a physiology designed for these conditions."
"Doctor, I don't know if it's a good idea or a bad one, but right now it's all we've got. I'm hoping we can contact Voyager with the equipment we left behind."
"I see," replied the EMH with as much enthusiasm as he could manage. "Then I suggest we hurry."
#
#
"Kahless! Chakotay, you're heavy." grumbled B'Elanna.
"Torres I've carried your butt farther than this, stop your bellyaching."
B'Elanna chuckled. "How are you feeling?"
"I've been better. Where is Ka...the Captain?"
B'Elanna pretended not to notice his slip. "She's up ahead, helping a young girl carry an Efirman. He looks pretty bad off."
Chakotay grunted. "J'Noh. He was the first injured. He established a telepathic link with the Captain. I hope his head injury does not affect her."
"Don't sound so protective, I'm sure Janeway will let us know if there is anything to worry about."
Harry's arm slipped from under Chakotay's shoulder as he pointed ahead. "It looks as if we're coming to something important."
The party of brotherhood and Starfleet personnel entered another large chamber much like the one they had left. This chamber was smaller, but filled with many more Efirmans.
Torres and Kim carried Chakotay forward until they had joined their Captain. Neither objected when he pulled away from them to stand shakily at Janeway's side. "Where are we now?" he asked Kathryn.
"Their war room."
An older man approached them leaning heavily against a cane. "Welcome Captain Janeway. I am P'ket, there is much we must discuss."
"Hello, P'ket. Can you tell me anything about the situation aboard my ship?"
"Yes, the government has attacked your vessel. They have beamed a battalion of troops on board to secure it. We managed to secrete two of our people aboard and they have been working closely with two of your officers."
"That would be Tom and Tuvok." interrupted Torres.
"Yes," agreed P'ket. "We are told that they have managed to confine the troops in something called a holodeck, and that they are attempting to transport some of your crew back on board. They feel they have the situation well under control."
"What is the situation here on the planet?" asked Janeway.
"Not good. Government troops have attacked most of our positions, including that supporting some of your crew. We are preparing to launch a counter attack. It is our hope that we will gain the aid of the citizens before too much blood is spilled."
Janeway considered the situation for a moment and then made her decision. "Chakotay, you, B'Elanna and Kes are to beam back to Voyager. As soon as Kes says you're able, take command and secure my ship. Harry and I are going to stay here and help the Efirmans, our primary goal is to locate the remaining crew."
Chakotay shook his head. "Captain I strongly object to leaving you here under these circumstances."
"That may be, Commander but you will do it anyway. That's an order."
Chakotay wanted to argue further, but his leg gave out and instead he toppled to the floor. Janeway immediately sank down next to him. "Chakotay, you must do this. You must have Kes treat your injury, and I need you up there taking care of our ship." her eyes pleaded with him to understand.
Chakotay resisted the urge to kiss her again. There just was no opportunity here in the middle of a crowd. Instead he nodded, his professional training forcing him to accept his Captain's plan even though his heart screamed against the danger to Kathryn.
"Torres, lift me up." When B'Elanna had him more or less on his feet he nodded for her to activate her commbadge. "Chakotay to Voyager. Three to beam up."
When they arrived on board B'Elanna sprinted for Engineering while Chakotay and Kes went directly to Sickbay. Kes took only a few moments to treat his leg.
"That should take care of the leg, Commander. You are free to report to the Bridge."
Thanks Kes, but I won't be going to the Bridge, I'm beaming back down."
The tiny doctor studied his face openly. "She's not going to like that."
He shrugged. "Maybe not, but it's where I belong. Tuvok has the situation here under control, and he's as qualified to lead this operation as I am. My place is beside the Captain."
Kes nodded, understanding all that his statement had implied. "Good luck. You'll need it."
#
#
Tuvok looked at the holodeck controls--there were 50 Efirmans inside including seven casualties. The others were in a group being terrorized by 5 Targs. There was a snort from someone when the assault force learned that piece of information. Tuvok had redesigned the ship's layout. The door opened and twenty of Voyager's crew took their positions. The program disappeared, leaving the surviving Efirman's blinking in astonishment. The distraction was all Tuvok and his team needed. The Efirman's were quickly disarmed and shackled. A new program appeared: a jail cell.
#
#
Tom smiled grimly as he waited for his assault force of thirty to get in position. There were twenty-five Efirman's on the bridge. They were still struggling to gain control of the ship's computer. The third team and some of Tuvok's were taking care of the Efirman's in other parts of the ship.
He nodded, the last team was in position. He nodded to Ensign Drew, who was standing by a console. The doors between the Captain's ready room and the bridge swished open, and Tom's group entered the bridge. At the same moment the lift doors opened and more of the crew appeared. Several others appeared from the hall.
Startled the Efirmans dropped their weapons. Tom looked at the Efirman leader. "Take the others away. I'll want to interrogate him." He poked the compression phaser rifle in the Efirman's ribs and tried to send a message telepathically. The alien smiled slightly.
"Hargrove, what's the ship's status?"
"All systems functional. The warp core is online. Shields are functional. Sir I'm showing that Commander Chakotay has beamed down to the surface."
Tom glanced around, the last of the Efirman Prisoners had left. "I'm Lieutenant Tom Paris and..." He almost laughed. "And I'm in command of this ship."
The Efirman laughed. "I'm glad to finally meet you. D'vel has told me much about you."
#
#
Chakotay materialized in a much emptier room. Most of the Efirmans were gone, those that were left seemed to be mobilizing into a final strike force. Chakotay scanned the room searching for Kathryn, he spotted her tiny form amid a group of armed Efirmans, she seemed to be issuing orders. Chakotay smiled; they weren't even her officers but she had taken command; it was good to know she was alright. Taking a deep breath to steady himself for the reprimand he had comming he stepped forward to report to his captain.
As he approached her position he could overhear her conversation with P'ket. "How many government troops have you detected around the area?"
"More than seventy. They want to take every precaution against any of you escaping. You are too great a threat to their lies about the Brotherhood."
Kathryn was studying the map that lay between them. "My people are falling back to this location. It doesn't have much to offer in terms of a defensive perimeter, they must be hoping to contact the ship. The government troops are here." she said pointing to a location on the map before them. "Where exactly will we be materializing?"
P'ket pointed to a spot about an inch behind the crew's location. "Our transport signal will terminate here."
"With only twenty-four members our team is seriously out numbered." observed Kathryn. "Of course if we can arm my crew, the equation will change significantly"
"Make that twenty-five members on our team." announced Chakotay stepping up to the table to view their map.
Kathryn's eyes blazed with anger when she saw her First Officer. "Commander, I gave you a direct order. Whay are you here instead of on my ship?"
Chakotay met her glare with eyes that held nothing back. "Voyager is secure Captain. My place is here."
Kathryn's eyes made it clear that the discussion was not over, but she would not continue while they had an audience. "P'ket, can we turn the tide if my crew is armed?"
The Efirman nodded. "Yes, but I'm afraid the Brotherhood does not have the equipment neccessary."
"Voyager does." smiled Kathryn. "Janeway to Voyager."
"Paris here, Captain. How do you keep cutting through the atmospheric distortion?"
"Our Efirman friends first order of business was to modify our communications to their frequencies. We are free to discuss our options. How is the ship?"
"Just fine, Captain. Tuvok has managed to capture all government soldiers. We are in the final stages of repair and should be good to go in less than half an hour. We have only been able to locate half the crew though."
"I've located the others, but I'm going to need some supplies. Transport thrity compression phaser rifles to these coordinates, Lieutenant. And I want to be informed if there are any changes in ships status. Understood?"
"Yes Captain."
Kathryn turned back to P'ket. "We can leave as soon as the arms arrive."
P'ket smiled. "Thank you Captain. We will save your people and topple the government's plans all in one stroke." He eyed Kathryn closely. "Captain there is a small room to your left if you wish to make use of it's privacy." He cast a quick look at Chakotay. "Come along Mr. Kim, let us ready my people for their greatest hour."
Kathryn stabbed Chakotay with a steely look, "After you, Commander."
When they were alone Voyager's Captain wasted no time telling her First Officer just how much anger his disrespect of orders was causing. The more she lectured, the bigger Chakotay's grin became until he was standing before his irate Captain smiling like an idiot.
"Would you like to explain your behavior?"
Chakotay tried to wipe the smile from his lips, but it refused to budge. "I'm sorry Captain, but I did what I had to do. You can file a reprimand on my record, or throw me in the brig, or replace me as First Officer; whatever you need to do. But realize this: I did what I had to do, not as the First Officer of Voyager, but as Chakotay."
Kathryn stood before him in total confusion. She rubbed the bridge of her nose and tried to gain control of her anger. "What are you talking about, Chakotay?" Her eyes flew open in surprise when he took her face in his hands.
"Kathryn, I came back not as your First Officer, but as the man who loves you. I will not stand by while you risk your life. The ship is fine, Tuvok and Paris have everything under control. If you are going to insist on risking your life, then I am going to be there to make sure you survive. I won't loose you."
Kathryn tried desperately to think of a response, but nothing came to mind. All she could hear was the echo of his voice saying he loved her. "Chakotay...I gave you a direct order."
"You gave your First Officer an order and he obeyed. But Kathryn, you can't order my heart. I love you, and I will not let you do this alone."
Kathryn knew he was being ridiculous, that he was rationalizing his direct violation of orders, but she couldn't respond. *He finally said it. He said he loves you. Now what do you do?* She kept asking herself that question but no answer came. She kept asking it over and over until he kissed her, and she still didn't know the answer.
He slowly pulled back, but did not move the arm that had circled around her waist. He didn't say a word. He didn't step away. He simply held her in his arms, giving her time to decide what would happen next.
She refused to look into his eyes. If she saw the raw emotion she knew was there once again she would never be able to regain control over the situation. *Control? Protocol? Parameters? I just let all of that fly out the airlock!* She took a deep breath and decided to try some damage control. "Commander, it isn't acceptable for both of us to be risking our lives like this. One of us must remain on Voyager."
"Well, as First Officer it is my duty to inform the Captain when I believe she is making an error in judgment. As the Captain, you should not be putting yourself at unnecessary risk. You should have put B'Elanna in charge. However, since I am now fit for duty, it would only be logical for me to take over the rescue mission and you to return to the ship. However, if you are going to insist on this course of action, you're just going to have to accept my company or I'll put you on report, Captain." The sharp edge he added to her title initiated a defensive instinct within her. Kathryn's head snapped up and she finally met his eyes. He was still grinning at her. He knew he was right. What was worse, she knew it, too. She just couldn't leave her crew down here. She was responsible for them, and she was going to help them. *And those damned gorgeous eyes of his. If I keep staring into them, no amount of damage control will be able to repair what I'm thinking of doing.*
"Very well, Commander. So long as Voyager's status is stable, you may accompany me." She broke from his embrace and began to head towards the door. Then suddenly she stopped and turned around. "Commander..." she paused, not quite sure what she wanted to stay. "Chakotay, I...I"
"It's all right, Kathryn. We can let the parameters fall firmly back into place when we get back to the ship. I just want to be sure that you are safe."
"No, it's not all right." She stared at him for a minute, then walked back to him. She stood just a few inches from him. "I'm not sure those parameters will work anymore." Before he could respond, she reached her hand up to his cheek and traced his lips with her finger, which was soon followed by her lips.
There was a hesitant tap at the door of the room and P'Ket's muffled voice reached Janeway's and Chakotay's ears. "Captain Janeway?"
"Come in, P'Ket," Janeway invited, already two steps away from her first officer.
Chakotay attempted to wipe away the silly grin that had split his face and was almost successful. He watched his captain as P'Ket entered and began to speak. She was all business once again; in fact, it was hard to imagine that she'd just been in his arms. (If not for the way his body tingled where her hands had been and the moist heat that marked his lips, that is.) He wondered if she even conciously remembered their brief encounter.
"The weapons have arrived from your ship, Captain," P'Ket said, "My people are ready to move. You will have to demonstrate the use of your weapons before we go, though."
Janeway nodded once, in acknowledgement of all she'd been told and gestured for P'Ket to proceed her out of the room. He did so, and she smiled over her shoulder at Chakotay before following.
In the larger room, Kim and several others of the Voyager crew were distributing compression phaser rifles to the Efirmans. The Efirmans accepted the weapons gingerly, but after a few minutes of explanation, they slipped them over their shoulders.
Janeway watched in approval, then accepted her own rifle from Kim. "All set, Harry?"
"Yes, Captain."
"Phasers set to heavy stun, then. P'Ket, let's move out."
"Of course, Captain. Please, if you will, take point. You're more experienced with this type of agression. We of the Brotherhood have only taken the defensive up until now."
Janeway nodded to P'Ket and strode forward into the armed group. Chakotay followed a step behind, supporting her even in the physical sense, with Kim. The Efimrans instantly rallied around the diminuitive figure, following orders from her as they would have from their own broad-shouldered leader.
#
#
Tom grinned slightly as he sat in the big chair. He looked toward the viewscreen then at the incoming data. The Efirman's seemed unaware that Voyager had been recaptured. "Paris to Tuvok. All systems are on line."
"Very good Lieutenant. All Efirman's are accounted for. Bring the ship to yellow alert."
Tom looked at D'vel, "The Efirmans?"
"Have no clue." She continued the conversation in his thoughts. **You're getting better at this.**
**I'm a quick study.**
She smiled. **The brotherhood is launching a counter-offensive. They are off to assist others of your crew. Your B'Elanna is with them. I'm told she is an angry one.**
Tom laughed, as D'vel continued to speak. "We have implemented our Call for Freedom. Friends and members of the Brotherhood in the main society have started a campaign to show what our government truly is. Your accidental involvement has given us an opportunity. We will use it." She looked around. There was a long pause as she concentrated, then a smile. "I've just been informed that President D'nar and his cabinet will be arriving in an hour, to inspect their new ship." She practically spit the words out, as Tom grinned evilly at this newest development.
#
#
"How many?" Sam asked Joe as she huddled under some rocks, clutching her child. Everybody was panting hard.
"Too many," Joe responded as he looked at his tricorder again. "Curious, I'm showing a small group of Efirmans...and B'Elanna. It looks like she's brought help!"
They had split into several small groups when the government troops had attacked. Several had been captured, most were scattered across the desert. Sam, Joe, the child and seven others had regrouped about five minutes ago. Their position was reasonably defensible, but even they realized that the desert sun was going to be their worst enemy. Only up for four hours it was already beating down mercilessly.
#
#
Janeway peered over the rock which was providing her cover. The government troops were advancing on her trapped crew; time was running out. Tightening the lid on her concern she scanned the opposite canyon wall searching for the signal from Kim's party. There! They were in position. Careful to not draw attention to her location Janeway lowered herself back down to her own team.
"Let's move." she ordered as she made her way to a better firing position.
The small group that was about to threaten her crew stood a zero percent probability of withstanding the attack. Both StarFleet and Efirman's quickly wiped out their advance. Moving quickly down the slope Janeway headed directly for her crewmen. Chakotay was no less than one step behind her.
"Spread out people, we need an immediate defensive perimeter." he called unwilling to sacrifice Kathryn's safety for even one moment. "Harry determine exactly how many of our people are still missing and see if you can pinpoint their location. I want us out of here as quickly as possible."
"Right away, Commander." agreed Harry.
Chakotay nodded, hoping that his concerned reaction would be enough precaution against the remaining Efirman forces. He turned to find Kathryn discussing the situation with Wildman and Carey. Carey was cradling his new rifle more affectionately than Sam did her child, as sure sign that they had arrived none too soon.
"Sam, our first priority is to get the baby to safety. I want you to head back to the ship. You'll have to transport back to the Brotherhood's compound first, Voyager can't detect us out here."
Sam looked relieved and grateful for the Captain's decision. "Yes, Captain. And thank you."
Janeway smiled and touched Sam's shoulder. "Hurry up, and get out of here. I need my most precious crewmember back in the nursery."
Wildman stepped away and followed the young Efirman who had volunteered to lead her back to the transport site. Chakotay breathed a sigh of relief. That was one problem solved. Now if they could do the same for the rest of the crew.
#
#
Paris eyed the information on his screen with nervousness. "Paris to Tuvok."
"Go ahead, Mr. Paris."
"They are preparing to board, Sir. I am detecting twenty individuals."
"Very well. Stand bye."
Paris swallowed noisily. *Man I hope the brass in San Francisco never hears about this one. I'm sure we threw the Prime Directive out the airlock sometime yesterday.* "They're here." he said aloud to D'vel. He doubted she needed him to tell her, but it gave him something to do.
**Yes, and they are quite surprised by their surroundings. Where is this Feringinar?**
**It's a miserable rainy little planet full of miserable greedy little men. Our holo-recreations have been programmed to view the President's team as wealthy investors. There is no way they will be leaving any time soon.** The thought of the Efirman President trying to converse with a Ferengi who believed he could close a deal brightened his mood considerably. **It's a good start at a suitable punishment for your close-minded government.**
D'vel clearly did not understand but she smiled at Tom's obvious mirth. **Good.**
#
#
Chakotay scanned the cliff- face diligently as they made their way toward one of the two remaining groups of crew. They had met some resistance from government troops while retrieving the others, but he was convinced the big battle still lay ahead.
With the sun in his eyes he never had a chance of spotting the attack when it finally came. Laser fire laced through the air from every direction just as they neared a narrow passage in the canyon. "Take cover!" he ordered crisply as they fought to stop the rain of beams.
He was nearly to the wall before he realized that Kathryn was no longer beside him. Whirling about he spotted her ten yards behind him, desperately trying to haul in the body of a wounded Efirman. Swearing under his breath at the idiocy of the woman he loved, and his own idiocy for what he was about to do, Chakotay turned and sprinted over to his Captain. Taking the greater portion of the wounded's weight he managed to guide Kathryn to safety before something terrible happened.
"We've got to get behind them or we'll never make it out of here. They don't seem to have more than a handful of men, but given our relative positions that's all they need."
"Agreed." replied Kathryn with a nod. "If we can make it to that crevice to the right there, we should be able to approach them from behind."
"All right, I'll inform Harry and P'ket of our intentions and meet you at the bottom of the cliff."
When Chakotay arrived at the cliff he gave Kathryn a quick visual examination to make sure she was unharmed.
"Commander, do you mind? I am not some computer component that needs to be inspected for defects."
"I never thought you were, Kathryn. I just wanted to make sure everything was were I remembered it."
He smiled when she blushed. "Keep your mind on your business Commander," she said sharply as she turned to lead the way up the cliff.
"More easily said than done." mumbled Chakotay as he followed closely behind her; his eyes firmly attached to her round posterior. *It's the heat, Chakotay* he told himself *don't think about what sweat is causing those clothes to cling to.* When she slipped on a rock and fell into his arms he managed to keep himself from nuzzling her neck, but he did hold on just a moment too long.
Janeway grunted, more out of surprise that nature had the gall to interfere with her than from injury, and quickly steadied herself. She didn't protest when her first officer's hands lingered on her hips a moment longer than was necessary--or proper.
"Are you all right?"
A short nod was the only answer as she headed up the cliff again. She clambered over a boulder that barred her path before saying, "Harry and P'ket?"
"Moving into position now. They'll be ready to move in when we distract the troops."
"Good. I'm more than ready to get all my people back where we belong."
They fell silent when they were forced to actually begin to climb up the rock wall. Chakotay wished they had even the most primitive equipment for the climb. He concentrated on balancing his weight using the handholds that supported Kathryn's slender figure.
Above him, Janeway was hauling herself over the edge of the cliff. The rock his left foot was perched on crumbled beneath Chakotay as he pushed himself up. A shower of pebbles and dirt rattled down the steep incline. Janeway's face appeared above him, her eyes anxious. Finding him still clinging to the rock, she frowned and pressed a finger to her lips. Apparently, only death was a worthy excuse for possibly alerting their quarry.
Chakotay grasped the delicate hand she extended with one hand and the rock with his free hand. Finally his feet found purchase on the smooth rock and he was able to drag himself over the lip of the cliff with Kathryn's help. He lay pressed against the ground for a minute. Kathryn was lying on her stomach, legs wrapped around a stubby tree. Her hand still gripped his arm.
She sat up and quirked an eyebrow at Chakotay. He nodded that he was unhurt. She tapped her communicator twice, signaling Kim. Immediately, an answering chirp sounded. Kathryn pointed over the slight hill that hid the troops from view and silently mouthed, "Let's go." She swung her phaser rifle from her shoulder and checked the setting. Chakotay did the same, and they crept up the slope.
#
#
Tuvok entered the bridge and moved to the Captain's chair. "Report." He asked as Tom took his seat at the conn.
"All systems nominal. Weapons are on line."
D'vel nodded, "They are expecting Voyager to be taking a trial run. There is some confusion why she hasn't requested permission."
The other Efirman nodded. "I can take care of that." He walked over to the operations station as Tuvok quietly gave permission. "Efirman vessel Voyager requesting permission to depart for test run." There was a pause, then a voice responded. "There has been a change in orders. A band of the crew and the so-called brotherhood are resisting in the Kolamar desert. Please assist our ground troops. And I have a message for President D'nar."
Again a pause, then the Efirman commander grinned. "President D'nar is unavailable. It seems he and his entourage have found some of the entertainment devices on this ship..."
There was a cackle in response. "Very well. When he is available, I'll send the message. You should finish getting the visual communications repaired."
"They are working now. Voyager preparing for departure. O'rel out."
Tom looked up. "That was easy." The whole operation had been.
O'rel laughed. "The Efirman government is not used to their victims resisting. A useful training flaw..."
#
#
There were only twelve Efirman soldiers; not enough to mount a serious attack on her larger forces, but more than enough to keep them pinned in the canyon below. She had no need to issue the command, as usual Chakotay seemed to know what she wanted even before she voiced the desire. Their rifles fired at exactly the same instant and two of the soldiers dropped lifelessly to the ground. As the Efirmans turned to answer the attack two shots pierced them from the opposite side- you could always count on Harry.
Dropping down below the cover of boulders, Janeway and Chakotay waited for a second opportunity to strike. The Efirmans were clearly in over their heads, totally unprepared for the combined attack of trained Starfleet officers. As Harry dropped another soldier where he stood Kathryn raised up and fired a shot. She hardly noticed the man fall as she took aim on a second man. She heard Chakotay firing next to her as she let loose with the second volley. In moments only one soldier was left, Janeway would have liked to allow him to surrender, but he gave her no opportunity to offer. He fired a shot which barely missed her and struck the rocks in front of her- the stones disintegrated in a flash of rubble.
"Ah! Damn!" she heard Chakotay gasp. The irrational fear and anger that engulfed her at that moment was uncontrolable. Raising her rifle she dropped the man where he stood without a moments hesitation.
Fighting panic she whirled around to find Chakotay setting on the ground. A dark trickle of blood was flowing down his cheek. Kathryn dropped to her knees next to him and began to probe his body for injury.
"Kathryn, stop. I'm alright."
"Then why are you bleeding?"
"It's just a scratch, see." he grabbed her searching hands in his and forced her to remain still. Gently he raised her right hand to his temple. "See, it's just a ricochet from the exploding rock. I'll be fine."
Kathryn stroked the small cut, wiping the blood from his dark, sweaty skin. "Don't ever scare me like that again. If you're going to cry out like that you better be really hurt."
Chakotay began to laugh. "Yes, Ma'am."
Kathryn finally found the strength to look into his eyes. "I thought you were wounded again. Like in the cave. It...it scared me." her last sentence was voiced so quietly he almost couldn't hear her.
Smiling without restraint Chakotay cupped her face in his hands. "I'm fine Kathryn. I promise I'm not leaving you anytime soon."
Her answering smile was shy and honest; and it was an open invitation. Without giving himself time to reconsider Chakotay pulled her close and kissed her deeply. He nearly lost all ability to think when she responded just as passionately.
"Ehm. uh, Captain?" squeaked Harry from the opposite side of the small boulder. "Um, Captain I think there is something you need to see."
Kathryn let her eyes remain locked with Chakotay's as she answered. "What is it, Ensign?"
"It's Voyager."
That got her attention, and Chakotay's too, together they stood and looked out over the desert. They would have had to be blind to miss it, Voyager was streaking through the atmosphere on a direct course for their location. Kathryn smiled. "About damn time."
She reached down and tapped her commbadge. "Janeway to Voyager."
"Voyager here, Captain." responded Tuvok's cool voice.
"So glad you could finally make it Mr. Tuvok. Start beaming up crew, make sure you search the surrounding two kilometers, there was still one small group unaccounted for. And include any brotherhood members scattered in this canyon."
"Aye, Captain. Stand by."
As Janeway waited for her ship to pull her back aboard she looked at Harry with trepidation. "Ensign, there is something we need to talk about."
"Don't worry, Captain." smiled Harry. "I won't tell a soul. You're lucky I've got a better sense of propriety than Tom. But if I may, Captain, I'd like to say...it's about time."
Chakotay laughed and took Kathryn's hand in his. "You said it Harry. You said it."
Kathryn just smiled at them both, she really didn't know what to say.
#
#
Captain Janeway strode onto the bridge, Chakotay and a few members of the Brotherhood following closely behind her. She quickly replaced Tuvok in the center seat. "Report."
"All of the crew are accounted for and have been beamed aboard and we are returning to a standard orbit."
"Excellent job, Mr. Paris. Tuvok?"
"The Efirman forces sent to capture Voyager are still in the Holodeck, and under guard. However, thanks to Lieutenant Paris, the delegation has been kept very occupied by the program." Janeway turned back to the pilot, who had a very large grin on his face.
"The Ferengi homeworld, Captain."
If she hadn't been on the bridge she would have burst out laughing. Chakotay was fighting hard to control a similar reaction.
"Captain," Tuvok regained her attention. "The Brotherhood has requested that we hold the Efirman forces until they are able to regroup enough of their forces to take them into custody."
"Very well. You'll be in charge of the transfer of the prisoners. Mr, Paris, please escort the all members of the Brotherhood to the mess hall and see what Neelix can find for them. Commander," she turned to him and could not control the sparkle in her eyes. "Please report to Sickbay and allow the Doctor to tend to that wound. Tuvok, I'll be in my quarters. You have the bridge."
Kathryn Janeway entered her quarters and headed directly to her bathroom. She took one look at herself and started laughing. *I'm a mess,* she thought. She stepped into the shower and began to reflect on the events of the last few days. Professionally, well, she always had enjoyed a challenge and this one had a very satisfying result. She had helped a suppressed group of citizens, toted around a phaser compression rifle, and would be able to arrange for more supplies for Voyager.
She stepped out of the shower and wrapped herself in a robe. Then, of course, there was the personal turn this mission had taken. Just thinking about Chakotay made her smile. She flopped down on to her bed. *I haven't felt this giddy since I was a teen-ager.* She felt so free. She had finally come to a decision about her falling for him, and now there would be no hesitation. She didn't have time to waste on second guessing herself.
She sat up and began to brush her hair. She recalled the moment he had beamed down to the planet. She had been shocked that he would disobey her orders, but she had been infused with such a sense of security and warmth. It was at that moment that she know. She knew he would always be there--strong and solid. *Solid as a stone,* she mused. He was the one that she could trust to always be there.
*He always has been there for me.* She recalled how he had walked protectively by her when they first arrived on Efirma. She saw his face again, his eyes so full of concern, when she had a woken on that distant planet after the shuttle had crashed. And to the late nights spent going over reports, just quietly enjoying each others company.
She stood and put on a clean uniform. It was time to got to the mess hall. Neelix had turned her idea of a light snack into a gala event. She walked out of her quarters looking forward to meeting Chakotay at the dinner.
#
#
The mess hall was buzzing. Some form of music--Efirman, Janeway guessed--could be heard from the corridor through the duranium bulkheads. Inside, StarFleet uniforms and Efirman clothing created a sea of colors. Happy voices and laughter rang out even above the music.
Kathryn braced herself and stepped into the room. The decibel level immediately dropped when the crew spotted their captain. She could never enter a room without making an entrance. There were nods, smiles, even waves from a few of the more relaxed people in the room. Janeway returned each greeting, all the while scanning the crowd with her eyes.
Neelix was moving among the guests, offering glasses of a lavender liquid unfamiliar to Janeway. She knew instantly the reason for the uninhibited atmosphere of the room. Efirman champagne. *Neelix should have sought authorization for this,* automatically flitted across the captain's mind, just as the Talaxian materialized in her path.
"Hello, Captain," he enthused, pressing the tray of glasses towards her. "The Brotherhood brought this for our celebration. It's quite marvelous."
Kathryn smiled and took a glass. *What could it hurt?* "Thank you, Neelix." She stepped around him, moving easily through her crew as the colored sea parted for her.
She basked in the gaiety that surrounded her. It had been quite some time since there'd been so much good cheer aboard Voyager. Janeway saw Harry Kim with Tom Paris, B'Elanna Torres, D'vel, and several other Efirmans she hadn't met yet. Harry saluted her with his own glass of lavender champagne, and nodded his head in the direction of the buffet.
Smiling, knowing what she would find, Kathryn turned and looked into the eyes of her first officer. The brown orbs smiled at her over the rim of a crystal goblet. It seemed absolutely everyone was partaking of the Efirman's gift. Kathryn moved to Chakotay, pausing to acknowledge each greeting along the way.
"Good evening, Chakotay."
His dark face was lit by a dazzling smile. "Kathryn. I've been waiting for you."
She smiled. "How's your head?"
"Never better...this is helping." Chakotay lifted his glass.
"Hmmm." Kathryn touched her glass against Chakotay's and then took a careful sip. The 'champagne' evaporated in her mouth and she gasped. "Fascinating."
"And *very*...relaxing."
"Oh, is it the champagne that has affected you so, Commander?"
"Neelix tells me the Brotherhood brought it aboard as a gift. I hope you approve," Chakotay said.
Kathryn pretended to consider, "Well, just this once."
Tom Paris appeared at Chakotay's elbow, "What are you two scheming about over here?"
"I beg your pardon?" Janeway said.
"There's barely room for air to pass between you," Tom teased.
Chakotay looked quickly to Kathryn, gauging her reaction. She smiled at the pilot. "The music is rather loud, Lieutenant."
"Uh-huh," Tom said, winked, and moved off.
Chakotay grinned. "The music is rather loud..."
"They deserve it. But I suspect there may be a few too many headaches tomorrow." She took another sip and giggled. "Definitely champagne."
Someone whistled and the crowd silenced. D'vel stood on a table. "We'd like to thank-you for your help. A word that does not describe truly what you have done for us. For the first time the citizens of Efirma have seen what their leaders are. Greedy..."
"I'll say," someone shouted. "Not too many can best a Ferengi in business..." There was laughter.
"They are now without jobs. The citizens have seen what their lies have done to us...And they may be willing to again live with those of the brotherhood." She raise her glass. "To peace and understanding. To Voyager and her wonderful crew."
A hearty cheer and applause, then the wild music started up again. Janeway looked around. "We need to talk...now, Commander." It wasn't her best Captain's voice--but it was the best she could do, considering. He nodded and followed her out.
"What do you know?" Tom asked, as he waved his left hand in front of Harry's face. The young ensign was grinning as he watched the two commanding officers leave.
"That there are two hydrogen molecules in each water molecule."
Tom looked at him in disgust, but was distracted by the approaching figure of B'Elanna. She had yet to forgive him for letting strangers touch her engines.
#
#
The walk to her quarters was silent. They maintained an appropriate distance, but both of them felt exposed each time they passed one of the crew. Outside her door she glanced at him. "You cannot disobey orders because you feel your place is with me." She kept her face stern. "Your place is where I order you..." They entered her quarters. She walked over to her desk.
"Yes, Captain. But as First Officer, it is my job to keep the Captain from harm." He moved to stand by her. "Like, when was the last time you led a ground assault..."
"I've lead several...Into Tiernan's stronghold..."
"That was a small raid. The Efirman troops were poorly trained and led. If they had any idea what to do, they would have sent a company to penetrate at this point." He pulled up a map-of-where-the-skirmish-had-been on the computer, making sure his arm touched hers.
She smiled slightly. "But I was prepared for that. My troops would have moved in to encompass them."
"Dangerous. They would have been on-top of you in minutes."
"But that would have made it easier to guide them further into my trap." She leaned against him. "They might have had the best position, but their path was forward only--they would have been too exposed on the hill."
He kissed the top of her head. "They could have withdrawn and returned with greater force."
"So the first thrust would have merely been a probing maneuver?"
"Uh huh." He leaned down and kissed the back of her neck. "To be followed by a slower, more organized, careful conquest."
She moaned slightly as his hands slid around her waist. "I would have had to increase the pressure...Forced them deeper. Surround them..."
"I'm not sure I followed that, Captain. Can you demonstrate?" he asked as he leaned down to slide his lips delicately across hers.
"Some tactical expert you are." she giggled not letting him pull away. "Chakotay..." she was breathless, her head spinning with vertigo. Stalling for time she kissed him again. When their lips parted she found the courage she had been searching for. "We've been fighting this for far too long." Her lips brushed his as she spoke.
"We don't seem to be fighting now." he whispered with a smile.
"I'm done fighting." tilting her head to allow herself the opportunity to see his eyes she smiled fully; giving him the acknowledgment he had searched for for so long. "I love you Chakotay. If you can accept that while accepting my command I will give you my soul."
Tears glistened in his eyes. "Kathryn, I have always accepted that." His touch was gentle as he pulled her against him. Delicate quick kisses began to rain against her face and an overwhelming wave of pleasure and happiness swept across Kathryn's heart.
When Chakotay's mouth found her own she refused to let him pull away. Wrapping her arms around his neck she kissed him more forcefully; his response was eager and immediate.
Without breaking the kiss Chakotay picked Kathryn up and carried her into her bedroom. When he lay her down atop the bunk both were breathing heavily. Kathryn opened heavy lidded eyes to see the man she loved smiling down on her. "Kathryn..."
Reaching up she lay a finger across his soft, wet lips; she shook her head, she was not in the mood to talk. Smiling, she traced his lips with her finger. When it had become as wet as his mouth she trailed it down his chin and across his throat. A look of impatience and irritation flashed in her eyes as her finger left his skin and traveled down his clothed chest. She longed to feel his hard, muscled torso against her own skin. Not stopping she added both hands to the single exploratory finger and continued across his stomach. He groaned as her hands passed his waist and found his aching erection.
Kathryn cocked an eyebrow in mock surprise. Flashing a wicked grin she reached up and pulled him down until he was fully atop her. With quick sure movements she stripped off his uniform until he was naked from the waist up. The sight of his dark chest and arms only inches away from her was almost too much to take. With slow deliberate strokes she ran her hands across his skin, paying particular attention to his nipples. She laughed when he gasped as she changed from hands to tongue. He tasted sweet and salty, and she felt as if she could devour every inch of him.
A few moments of such attention left Chakotay panting in an effort to control himself. Kathryn pushed him away and began to remove her own uniform. Chakotay's eyes glistened as he watched her shed the last barrier between them. He absently kicked himself free of the lower half of his uniform and reached for her. Her move toward him was nearly a pounce. The feel of her skin against his was more intoxicating than the Efirman's champagne, and far more lasting.
Straddling Chakotay, knees resting on either side of his body, Kathryn spread her fingers wide and ran her hands down his chest. Her light touch left trails of fire on Chakotay's skin from his collar bone to his naval and beyond. She stopped just short of his erection, moved her hands back up to his shoulders, and leaned down to kiss him.
Chakotay opened his mouth under her lips, banishing all thoughts of a tender, chaste kiss from Kathryn's mind. Her tongue passed over Chakotay's lips without conscious thought; Kathryn felt she was literally falling into his mouth.
Chakotay's hands glided over the delicate skin of Kathryn's back before settling, locked in place, above her hips. It was only a moment, however, before his hands roamed over her hips and down her thighs, slowly back up and to her stomach just as she straightened to allow him to continue. Following Kathryn's invitation, Chakotay traced the soft curve of her breast with a forefinger. Kathryn let her head fall back, gasping.
With a hand against her stomach, Chakotay pushed Kathryn into a position that gave him room to sit up. As she wrapped her legs around his waist, Chakotay brought his face close to her chest. Close enough for her to feel his quick, moist breath on her breast. Chakotay flicked his tongue out and barely touched her nipple. Kathryn moaned; the trails of fire down Chakotay's back were caused by her nails, this time.
Chakotay covered her nipple with his mouth and moved his tongue back and forth against it relentlessly. With a second, deeper moan, Kathryn pushed Chakotay back on the bed, kneeling over him on all fours. Reverently, she murmured, "Chakotay."
He sighed in response and caressed her cheek and jaw. Chakotay's hand continued into the mane of hair that fell down her back and pulled it forward over her shoulders. Kathryn leaned closer and her hair fell onto his chest, tickling but arousing. "Commander, what's your preferred position for frontal assault?" Kathryn purred.
"Planning tactical strategy, are we, Captain? I thought you were done fighting..." Kathryn's tongue interrupted Chakotay's words.
"I'm just preparing for your probing manuever, Commander. Any time you're ready." Kathryn lowered her body, full-length, onto Chakotay's.
He wrapped his arms around her as he deftly rolled them over. "There is a tactical advantage to having the higher ground," he whispered just before he leaned down and kissed her. Taking her hands in his, he held them above her head as he licked his way back down to her breasts. Smiling slightly he returned his attention to them.
Chirrip.
Both growled slightly, as Kathryn considered ignoring the summons. Chakotay released one hand and reached over her to retrieve her comm-badge.
She took a deep, calming breath as she took it from his hand. "Janeway here."
"Captain." It was Tom.
"What do you want Lieutenant," Janeway snapped in exasperation.
"You left the party and B'Elanna said you had looked...well...not yourself."
Kathryn almost gasped when Chakotay started to tease her nipple with his mouth again. She tried to free her other hand to prevent him from continuing--but he held that one firmly with his right hand. His left hand was making it's way lower. She closed her eyes and tried to concentrate on ending her conversation before Tom figured out why she sounded so breathless.
"I'm fine Tom..." She panted as Chakotay's fingers moved to the area between her thighs.
"You don't sound OK." Kathryn was sure she heard female laughter coming from the comm-badge. Klingon laughter.
"Is there a purpose to this..." She stopped speaking as Chakotay's fingers gently brushed her clitoris. "To this conversation."
"As long as you are OK...Paris out."
#
#
Tom looked at B'Elanna. "See. Pay up." He settled back in the sofa and watched her intently.
"It was a stupid bet..."
Tom cocked his head. "You knew what they were doing before you made the bet."
She shook her head, but couldn't stop the warm smile that spread across her face. "It's about time." She yanked him up by his collar and kissed him.
Tom smiled, "I take this to mean I'm forgiven."
B'Elanna looked at him, "Not that easily Helmboy." She pulled him closer as she kissed him again.
#
#
"What was that all about?" asked Janeway as she tossed the commbadge across the room.
"A bad joke. I know two lieutenants who are going to be spending a lot of time on separate shifts."
Kathryn laughed darkly. "Ah, the benefits of rank. Now where were we Commander?"
In answer Chakotay pushed her backward until she was fully beneath him. "We were conducting some tactical analysis, Captain." he purred. With a tenderness that belied the eagerness in his eyes he began to slide himself inside her. "A cautious advance will usually yield a greater victory." he whispered in her ear.
Kathryn gasped as his body reached it's full depth inside hers. Arching her back and pulling on his hips she begged him to repeat the action. With slow, almost lazy strokes Chakotay moved within her folds, savoring the feel of their bodies together. Kathryn's first climax was overwhelming, she cried out his name and rocked her hips against him in an effort to prolong the sensation. Chakotay held her gently until the waves of pleasure faded.
When he was sure that she was sated, he began to move again this time at a far more demanding pace. As his thrusts became more aggressive Kathryn slipped her legs up around his waist. He grunted in pleasure at the shift in position. Just as Chakotay began to pant in anticipation of his release Kathryn's body crested a wave of its own. Chakotay pulled his torso upward, driving himself as deeply into her as possible. Gasping with urgency Kathryn tightened her grip on his hips and rose up with him, allowing her head to fall back. Together they climaxed and then collapsed in exhaustion.
After a few quiet moments Kathryn raised up on one elbow and kissed Chakotay's cheek. "Our relationship is changing, Commander."
"For the better, Captain." he replied, cradling her face in his hands. He pulled her down against his chest in a fierce embrace and kissed the top of her head. "I love you, Kathryn. More than I have ever loved anything, or anyone."
Kathryn squeezed him tightly, wishing she could remain like this forever. "I love you, my angry warrior." she said quietly "you may never know how much."
Together they lay, bodies intertwined until sleep carried them away.
#
#
Captain Janeway and Chakotay came onto the bridge from the turbolift. Janeway paused for the briefest moment and surveyed her domain. Harry Kim at Ops was carefully watching his console after a brief glance at the arriving commanding officers. Tuvok's eyes met hers and he nodded. B'Elanna Torres' attention was riveted to the engineering station. Must be some last minute repairs that brings her to the bridge...Tom Paris at the helm.
There was a sort of shine to the bridge this morning. Almost as if some crewman had been there during the night with a polishing cloth. Of course, the whole world shone for Kathryn Janeway this morning.
She moved with her first officer to the command well but didn't sit. Standing in the middle of the bridge, all eyes soon turned to her. Janeway smiled. "Status?"
"All systems are functioning within standard parameters, Captain," Tuvok said. "Neelix reports that our supplies have been completely replenished."
"Captain, the Efirmans did an incredible job repairing the engines. Engineering is ready with Warp 8.7," Torres reported.
"Excellent." Janeway raised her voice for the entire bridge to hear. "You have all performed above and beyond the call of duty during this mission. Thank you for your level-headed comportment. Each of your actions was responsible for the safe delivery of this ship and her crew from harm." Janeway stepped forward and placed a hand on Tom's shoulder, spoke for his ears alone. "Feringnar, eh? I'm looking forward to your report."
She settled into her chair, crossed her legs. "The Efirmans?"
"They transmitted this message earlier this morning, Captain." Tuvok keyed the appropriate controls and J'noh appeared on screen with D'vel, O'rel, and P'ket.
D'vel spoke. "We wish to extend our most heartfelt thanks to you, Captain Janeway, and to the crew of Voyager."
P'ket continued, "Thanks to you our world has been reunited without undue loss of life."
"And our former government remains baffled by the dissipation of their business deal," O'rel laughed.
J'noh leaned forward on the screen. "Kathryn Janeway, your heart has been *our* salvation."
"That is the message in its entirety, Captain," Tuvok said as the Efirmans faded.
Janeway looked to her side at Chakotay. His eyes sparkled despite his efforts to contain his smile. Janeway smiled at him. "I'd say our business here is concluded, Commander."
"Yes, I agree," Chakotay smiled.
Turning to the helm, Janeway said, "Course for the alpha quadrant..."
"Is already laid in, Captain. Awaiting your order," Tom said, grinning over his shoulder.
Janeway smiled, "Well, then. Take us..." She turned and regarded her first officer's bent head as he worked at the command console. The final word was soft and filled with a private revelation, "Home."
Kathryn Janeway was already home. Here on the bridge of her ship, once again, with the crew that had become her family. Kathryn smiled to herself and turned back to the view screen, changing as she watched from an aft view of Efirma to streaks of starlight. Her ship was underway again, but Kathryn had already found her destination.
The End