Kathryn awoke slowly, her mind struggling to recognize where she was...whose chest was her back against...whose arm was wrapped tightly around her waist. She closed her eyes and smiled as let his warmth surround her. As her brain began to function she recognized the small room, the dying fire--and most importantly--why she was lying in the arms of the man she loved...Her second in command, she corrected herself.
She felt him shift behind her. "Good morning," she whispered. Almost without thinking she rolled over to face him. "Sleep well?"
He nodded as his hand instinctively pulled her closer. Kathryn smiled at his action, as she wondered what would happen if he...
His lips gently grazed hers before he pulled back. Kathryn moved her hands up his arms to his neck to bring his mouth back to hers, when there was a noise. A whimper from outside.
Kathryn bolted guiltily up into a sitting position. "What's that?" Seeming to forget the man who had been holding her she climbed to her feet and faced the door.
Chakotay flopped back onto the rug with an exasperated sigh. "It's probably Tuvok." he murmured. Knowing the moment was gone, he climbed to his feet and approached the door. Kathryn was at his elbow as he pulled open the port.
In the dimness beyond they found a short, hairy being with large dark eyes, very much resembling a terran mole- only larger and seemingly intelligent. As the officers looked questioningly at the fur covered almost-animal it beckoned them to follow. Chakotay cast a question silently to his captain.
Janeway nodded and stepped out to follow the little creature. "I don't see a better alternative." she said with a shrug. The creature led them down a series of darkening tunnels, fortunately all large enough for the humans to stand comfortably.
They rounded a bend in the rock and all light completely disappeared. Chakotay didn't protest, but smiled fully as Kathryn slipped her small hand into his. He resisted the urge to stroke her palm, but he did maintain a firm hold on their laced fingers.
Just as the darkness was beginning to feel overwhelming, the creature darted into an alcove and returned with a burning torch and two sacks. When Kathryn's eyes adjusted to the flare of the torch she was able to distinguish a small wooden door embedded in the rock wall. The tiny cave-being forced the bags into her arms and handed the torch to Chakotay. Without a sound he opened the door and pointed the officers through.
"I'd say this is the way out." Janeway surmised.
"That would be my guess." agreed Chakotay. "Ready?"
Janeway shouldered one bag and shifted the other to one hand. "No time like the present." she turned and knelt next to their small guide. "Thank you for the help." she told him sincerely, knowing that he could not understand the language, but hoping he would hear the tone.
The creature bowed formally and then scurried back down the dark tunnel. Chakotay watched him leave and then turned his attention to the doorway. After a moments study he pointed to the burned images along the doorframe. "I'd say we found our next clue."
Janeway studied the pictures, "I think we're in for some danger. I suggest caution, Commander."
Chakotay nodded agreement as they stepped out into the sunlight. He walked next to Kathryn wishing he could loose the torch and retake her hand. "I wonder why he gave us a torch when it's daylight?"
Kathryn smiled evilly, "Maybe he knows your history of fire skills." she teased.
Chakotay took the ribbing with easy. "Very funny. You have plenty of hair left, we'd have been fine."
"Leave my hair out of this, Commander." she returned. "I don't..." something behind Chakotay caught her attention and she stopped walking. "What's that shining in the light?"
Chakotay turned and saw the flickering. He shaded his eyes in an attempt to get a better look. It didn't help. They both moved almost simultaneously in the direction of the object.
A large grassy field and a thin wooded area appeared to be all that separated them from the answer. As they drew nearer the edge of the five foot grasses it was apparent that the object was moving.
Coming out from the trees, they made out two very large metal posts shining in the light. A burning torch was fitted in a holder on one. The other metal post sat empty.
Chakotay turned toward Kathryn with a shrug and placed the torch in the metal holder. The both moved into high alert at a loud creaking sound.
Kathryn turned to her right as she dropped one sack and instinctively reached for her phaser before she remembered that they didn't have weapons. They quickly surveyed the area, not finding anything. She looked at Chakotay quickly then handed him one of the sacks. "Let's see what our friend left us." They opened the sacks. Chakotay pulled out a several intricately cut pieces of painted wood. Her sack included similar pieces.
"What," he looked through the sack again. "There are about 30 pieces in here."
"Same here." Again they looked around. The ground around the two torches was level and the grass closely cropped. Almost as if...
"A puzzle," Kathryn asked as she looked at a piece she was holding. "This looks like an edge."
A quick glance at her first officer and they dumped the two bags. There were about seventy-five pieces. They worked quietly.
"It's another clue," Chakotay said after about fifteen minutes.
"I just wish I knew what it was a clue to." muttered Janeway.
Chakotay smiled, "What is it about StarFleet Captains? They never want to just wait and see."
"Careful, don't make me regret bringing you along."
Chakotay feigned a hurt expression. "Don't talk like that Kathryn. Do you really regret my presence?"
The smile she gave him caused his heart to stop. "Of course not, I'll never regret being anywhere with you."
Chakotay grinned and slid the last puzzle piece into position. "Looks like another map." he observed.
Janeway rose on her tiptoes and then sank down with dejection. "I wish I was an inch or two taller, it's hard to make out the details from here."
Chakotay grunted in agreement as he scanned the area. "I think maybe we're standing in the wrong spot." He pointed to the arch between the torches. "We need to be up there."
Janeway circled the structure, "There are some steps back here, but they don't look very sturdy. Be careful." Without waiting for her First Officer, Janeway began to climb the steps.
"What can you see now?" asked Chakotay as he mounted the creaking steps to stand next to her.
"It's another map alright. I'd say we're here." she pointed to the bottom right corner of the map. "Given the position on the map, I'd say we need to head..." she looked around searching for a landmark, "that way."
Chakotay nodded, following her finger toward dense jungle, and he thought perhaps a river. "Any more dangers on the map?"
"I'd say that was a danger."
Chakotay looked at the map to find Kathryn studying an image of a tall, humanoid with several arms. "He does look intimidating, doesn't he."
"I wish we had a phaser, or a rifle. I'd even settle for a knife, just something to use for defense."
Chakotay lay a hand on the small of her back. "Don't worry, we'll make it. Maybe we can find something to improvise with."
Janeway smiled up at him, silently thanking him for the encouragement. "Come on, let's get out of here."
Together they descended the stairs and set off in the direction of the next clue.
The path to the jungle led them through yet another field of thick grasses. This grass was denser than that of the previous field. Tall hollow stalks swayed stiffly as they walked among them.
"This is interesting," Chakotay commented, examining one of the tall poles. It felt decidedly sturdy beneath his grasp. With a yank he pulled it from the ground. After several carefully aimed stomps it broke off at a manageable length.
"I'll say," Kathryn commented watching his actions. Her first thought was that he was making a blow tube. "It's a lot stronger than it looks."
Chakotay shot her a mischievous grin, as he began to search the surrounding area.
"What?" Kathryn asked. She loved it when he smiled like that.
Chakotay eyed her, grin deepening. *Just like someone I know* "Nothing," he said aloud, reaching for a rock. He began to methodically rub the rock across the rough end of the tube.
She picked up one of the broken edges and found a rock of her own. Chakotay definitely made it look easier than it appeared. All she'd succeeded in thus far was tearing up the end of the little tube.
"That wasn't nothing," Kathryn replied. "But I'll let you off the hook under one condition." Her eyes continued to follow his sanding motions with interest as the tube began to form a crude knife.
"And that is?" Chakotay asked quiet mischief dancing behind his eyes.
"Show me how you're doing...Ow!" She came to a stop, frustration evident in her voice. She'd just gotten a splinter.
Chakotay gestured that she sit on the ground. Placing his implements beside him, he took her hand in his. A tiny spot of blood was flowing from the tiny wound. Gently wiping it away, he moved her hand toward his mouth.
Kathryn gasped, glad she was sitting.
He kissed the finger gently, smiling at her gasp. Then without letting go of her hand, his free hand reached up to stroke her face. In the back of his mind he noted that she was letting him do this. Something he had wanted to do for a long time. He leaned over bringing his mouth toward hers.
Kathryn was silent as his lips brushed her, promising herself not to react...it would be over and they could try to re-establish their previous relationship. She leaned forward finding his lips with her own. Her arms wrapping around his neck.
This second kiss was fast becoming more, Chakotay was running his hands along her arms, down her back. Lost in the sensations of holding her.
As he pulled away, to regain his breath he noticed a movement just beyond the rocks where they were sitting. He stiffened.
Kathryn felt the change in the mood and pulled away. He quickly motioned with his finger for silence, then nodded toward his right. She nodded as she watched him pick up the home-made knife. Together they slipped into the field of tule-like reeds.
She screamed. Three hands wrapped around her waist and held her tight. Chakotay turned, knife at the ready...
What he found made his blood run cold; Kathryn clutched tightly against the chest of a fiercesome beast. Its proportions were nearly human, but far more massive. The being stood at least a head taller than Chakotay with powerful shoulders and a broad chest. It had four arms, three of which were wrapped tightly around Kathryn's waist. The fourth held a spiked cudgel that looked more than adequate for removing a Commander's head.
For her part, Janeway was not about to remain helpless. She struggled and fought the creature's hold on her. Her kicking and punching seemed to have little effect, even her StarFleet training could not overcome the creature's superior physique.
Chakotay's heart was pounding hard inside his chest. The fear that gripped him was not for himself, but for his Captain- the woman he had just been kissing, the woman he loved. Cautiously he approached his struggling Captain and her captor. "Put her down." he warned quietly.
The creature did not seem to understand the words but as Chakotay stepped closer he tightened his grip on Kathryn and howled.
Chakotay stopped immediately as Kathryn began to pant and gasp from the added pressure to her ribcage. "Stay calm," he said, now speaking more reassuringly. "I don't want to hurt you. And spirit's know I don't want you to hurt Kathryn."
Kathryn stopped her struggles and cocked an eyebrow at his last comment. "Chakotay," she gasped breathlessly, "I don't know how much more I can take. Do something."
"Put her down, friend." called Chakotay gently. "Let's talk about this."
The creature didn't seem to understand. When Chakotay took one hesitant step in his direction the beast howled defiantly and dashed away into the reeds.
"Shit!" swore Chakotay.
"Chakotay!" he heard Kathryn scream, "Chakotay!"
He was moving before his name left her lips. "I'm coming!" Praying to whatever ancient ancestors walked these woods, Chakotay tore after the creature who had just stolen the most precious thing in his life.
The creature ran with powerful legs, eating up the ground between the grasses and the jungle. And though Chakotay's chest was on fire with exertion, he could not stop. He would not give up on his love.
As the creature passed the tree line, it's pigmentation melded in with the deep colors of the jungle. Chakotay pushed ever harder, reaching the same point much more winded than he liked.
Struggling to control his gasping breaths, he cautiously slipped beneath the dank canopy of trees into the jungle proper. All was still, not even the birds sang. At the sound of something heavy falling and an echoing yell, Chakotay was off and running again. The soggy ground sucked at his feet, making the going difficult; but the creature's path was easily recognizable.
He came upon a muddy clearing. A ragged hut sat to one side, half hidden by trees and debris. A roaring river was visible on the opposite side. The man-beast loped out of the hut carrying more debris to pile atop what was already there before going back inside. Kathryn was no where to be seen.
Chakotay gazed around his position in search of something he might use to distract the beast. There were several large limbs that might be of use, as well as the knife at his waist. But something else caught his scanning eye: Another stand of the reed-like grasses grew nearby. These were obviously of a slightly differing variety; tiny holes peppered one side of the much shorter stalk. Chakotay grinned at what he perceived was obviously another clue.
With the knife he'd made, he carefully separated the stalk from the ground. How did the proverb go? Tom-tom's soothe even the wild beast. Having cleared away some of the dirt, he blew experimentally into the tube. Satisfied with the result, he turned back toward the clearing.
Standing now, he moved stealthily into the clearing. He blew a clear sweet tone on the little flute, knowing it would get the creature's attention. Within moments the creature appear carrying his prize.
Chakotay nearly dropped his instrument at the sight of his love...
The creature roared when Chakotay moved the instrument from his mouth to speak. Quickly he started playing again. The creature settled down--still holding Kathryn in a tight hug. As the Commander played, he noticed the hold relax.
He stopped for a breath. He was still breathing hard from chasing after them and now from playing his reed-flute for minutes. The creature tensed, but relaxed when it saw that Chakotay was going to play again.
Kathryn was able to breathe easier now. The creature had relaxed it's grip enough for that. She wondered what Chakotay's plan was--but wisely didn't break the spell...She also wondered...
There was a loud rasping sound in her ear. Startled she looked at the creature. It snored again. She carefully slipped out of it's embrace. Chakotay nodded toward the river. He continued to play for a couple more minutes. The creature's snoring was increasing in volume, Chakotay noted as he stopped playing. Leaving the simple reed-flute by the creature he followed her.
He found her moving some brambles away from a raft. He looked at the raft, then the river. A roar from the creature left them little choice. With a final shove they pushed the raft into the river and climbed aboard.
They moved swiftly downstream--leaving a furious man-creature roaring at the shore.
"Now what?" Chakotay shouted to be heard over the thundering of the river.
Kathryn lay sprawled on the raft, her breath coming in shaky gasps. Chakotay tried to steer the raft, but with no rudder or pole it was a useless effort. He finally gave up.
Crawling carefully--so as not to disturb their balance he made his way over to Kathryn. She was frightening him, up to this point she had not said a word. she lay face down on the raft, her head cradled in her hands. Her shoulders were shaking. This gave Chakotay great concern--Kathryn Janeway did not cry.
He reached out and gently touched one trembling shoulder. "Kathryn? Are you alright?"
She responded softly, but he could not understand her through the muffle of her hands. He leaned down until his face was touching the back of her hands. "Kathryn?"
When she pulled her hands away from her face he was completely caught off guard. "You're laughing!"
"What did you think I was doing?" giggled Janeway.
"Never mind." Chakotay responded curtly. "Are you alright?"
Kathryn winced as she sat up. "I think he may have cracked a rib, but it's not too bad." She laughed again, a deep throaty laugh. "Commander Chakotay--Pied Piper of Voyager."
Chakotay grinned. "It worked didn't it?"
Kathryn sobered. "Yes it did." reaching out she took his hand. "Thank you."
Chakotay raised his free hand and caressed her cheek--for an instant he had faced his fear of loosing her. "It will take more than a four armed giant from Winocan mythology to keep you from me, Kathryn."
Kathryn smiled, and this time it was she who began their kiss. They separated slowly, not wanting to stop but realizing the danger of their situation.
"Do you really think all this is connected to Winocan mythology?" Kathryn asked suddenly.
Chakotay was caught off guard by he question. He drew his thoughts away from Kathryn's creamy skin and tried to refocus. "What? Oh, I guess so. I'm not sure I've given it any conscious thought, but now that I've said it does seem plausible."
"I'm not sure how helpful that is, we just don't know..."
Kathryn's thought was left unsaid as the raft began to turn, caught in the current.
They realized simultaneously that the waters were picking up speed, flowing ever faster past the now distant shoreline. A distant roaring became evident.
"I've got a really bad feeling about this," Kathryn said as she gazed in the direction the current was taking them. They were headed for what appeared to be a series of rapids.
"What do you think?" Chakotay asked, "Swim for it?" With each passing second the little raft was picking up more and more speed. To make matters worse, there were rocks ahead poking from beneath the surface at intervals. One strike and the little raft would no doubt be dashed to pieces, not to mention its human passengers.
"I don't know that we have much of a choice," Kathryn replied, gauging the distance to the shore. It was much further than she liked. She'd always been a strong swimmer, she hoped the Commander was. As if to back up her words, a large rock came into view, directly in their path.
Chakotay, noting the rock, looked around quickly for string, rope, anything to link the two of them together finding nothing, he nodded in agreement. "Let's do it."
Both dove in unison into the chilling depths of the fast moving river. It's temperature causing both to gasp in shock. Recovering quickly, the began to fight their way toward shore.
The waters sapped at their strength, testing muscle and resolve. They both tried to remain close, but the waters made that near impossible. Chakotay saw Kathryn go under more than once, but rise again with determination etched in her features. He wasn't faring much better, but the distance between them and the shore was shrinking, if slowly.
As the closed on the final meters, the strength of the waters began to lesson, allowing them to swim more normally the final leg of their journey. Both fell exhausted unto the sandy/rocky shore, hand in hand.
Both picked up the sound at the same time: a loud, birdlike screeching. And then a shadow fell over them...
Kathryn reacted first as the large beak struck from above, she and Chakotay rolled out of it's reach then stood and sized up their new foe. It was a 2-meter-tall bird-like-creature, with a long pointed beak and beady red eyes. The head was bare of feathers...but the rest of the body was covered in scaly feathers. It shrieked again, and stepped toward them.
The two officers took a step back and surveyed the area. They could leap back into the river or try to run across the sandy shore...
The bird started moving toward them at a steady pace. It's dark green body slightly iridescent in the sun.
"I think we run for it," Chakotay whispered as the bird raised it's head in a triumphant screech.
"I concur. Where to?"
"The artwork showed a bird and a river...I'd say that direction." He noticed that the trees were evenly spaced and that the nearest one had a carving in it.
Kathryn sighed and looked at the bird, who was watching them closely. "Ready?" He nodded. "Now."
Both officers ran toward the trees, about 20 meters away. The bird screeched and took off after them. It lumbered on it's heavy limbs, but was gaining on them. Suddenly it stopped and looked around: then without a sound, ran in the opposite direction.
At this change of events, both officers stopped to catch their breath and do a complete survey of their surroundings. For the first time Janeway became aware that she had cut her arm. Her sleeve was ripped, and the blood was caking. Chakotay noticed and reached out to take her hand and examine the wound.
"We need to do something about that." observed Chakotay as he gently prodded the wound.
"I'll be alright, you don't need to fuss over me." Kathryn argued, but making no move to pull away from his examination.
Chakotay smiled as he knelt and tore a strip of fabric from his pant leg. "I'm no doctor, but I know that blood needs to be stopped. Don't be such a difficult patient."
Kathryn winced as he tightened the bandage around her arm. "I'm a perfectly good patient, ask around."
"As soon as we make it back to Voyager, I will." Chakotay finished applying the bandage and let his hands travel up her arms until they rested on her shoulders. "Forgive me if I worry about you, I'm still not over the fear that little abduction caused me."
Kathryn's eyes softened with pleasure, "I wasn't afraid, I knew you would find me."
"I always will." he promised. The urge to pull her against his body and hold her until this nightmare ended was strong, but totally inefficient. Turning reluctantly to the trees behind them he focused on their situation. "I'm willing to bet there's a clue over there."
Kathryn found his hand as she stepped past him and laced her fingers firmly with his. "Let's take a look, shall we?"
This time the clue wasn't so immediately obvious. It wasn't that it was hard to find, just difficult to understand.
"Mean anything to you?" Kathryn asked after having stared at the golden symbol carved, then painted, into the tree. It was roughly eye-level and oval. Two hollows appeared in the sides of the tree at waist level or so, as well as two oval stones on the ground.
Chakotay glanced at her then tilted his head to one side. Turning his head to the other side he walked around the tree and stopped again.
Kathryn watched with a bemused grin as he conceded defeat. "You know, now that there seem to be no beasties around, it's rather peaceful here."
"Yes it is," Chakotay agreed pulling her to him, his voice dropping seductively. "I seem to remember a particular section in the drawing of a couple who were standing in a glade just like this one..." He froze as he recalled the colorful scene...Staring oddly at Kathryn, he turned her so that her back rested against the tree.
"Chakotay...?" she questioned in confusion, though not resisting.
Chakotay spared her a glance as he adjusted the placement of her head against the tree. The symbol was just the right height to rest her head on. "Stand right there. I think I know what this is..." his voice trailed off as he continued to arrange her hair over her shoulders, and placed her hands back against the side of the tree.
Looking up at the top of the tree he carefully placed his hands on either side of her face. He then looked down at the placement of his feet on the ground.
"Chakotay..." Kathryn began, but fell silent when he gently touched his lips to hers. One tentative touch turned into another. The kiss deepened as they both promptly lost themselves to the moment.
Neither were cognizant of the scene changing about them...
The ground opened up underneath their feet and they went sliding into complete darkness. His body lying hard atop hers.
Kathryn managed to blurt out, "What the..." before wind caused by the high rate of their descent drowned the words...
And as suddenly they slowed and came to a halt. It was dark. Carefully Chakotay lifted himself up and stood. At least the ground here seemed solid enough. He reached down and sought out her hand and pulled her to her feet.
"What's happening," she whispered.
"I don't know," he responded. "But I think we should stay together. As his eyes started to adjust to the darkness he could just see her standing next to him.
"Well, we should explore, see if we can find the next clue. She pulled on his hand and they headed right.
"Ouch," she stepped back and rubbed her shin.
"Find something?"
"Funny." She reached out and felt whatever was in front of her. "Some kind of box." Her hand brushed a switch and a small light flickered into existence.
She blushed at the pictures...and closed her eyes. The last clue had been there all along. "You would have to have been injured in a brothel. The Winocans have an extremely strange view of justice."
Chakotay frowned...The pictures left little doubt as to what was to happen next. "This isn't exactly how I imagined..." He blushed.
"Me neither." She looked around the room. The single light barely illuminated the rest of the room. It was empty. "There must be another way..."
"I hope not." The words slipped past Chakotay before he could stop them.
Kathryn felt her face flush deeply. "Really, Commander."
Chakotay gave her arm a tiny tug, wrapping his arms around her torso as she fell against him. He leaned in and nuzzled her neck, slowly he began to cover her neck with gentle kisses. "Don't tell me you've never considered it, Kathryn."
"I...well, I...you could say it has crossed my mind. Once...or...twice." It was becoming more and more difficult for Kathryn to produce a coherent thought. "It just seems so...scripted."
At that Chakotay pulled away. A look of complete adoration burned in his eyes as he cupped her face in his hands. "If you don't want this, Kathryn, just say so. We'll find some other way to convince the Winocan's of our penance."
A smile tugged at the corner of Kathryn's mouth. "It's not that I don't want it, Chakotay," she let her hands dance slowly across his chest, "but I don't want this to be something we have to do. I want this to be something we can cherish. Something we can remember."
"I guarantee we'll remember, Kathryn. I promise you'll cherish this experience, and the next and the next."
The smile spread across her lips, "Feeling cocky Commander? What makes you think there will be a next time?"
Chakotay heard her playful tone, but chose not to follow it, instead his answer was painfully sincere. "No, I'm not bragging Kathryn, but I have no intention of ever giving you up. If we do this, you will be mine, and I yours until the end of our days. I love you, and I will not deny it."
The last barrier dividing Kathryn and her passion fell with those words. With a ferocity that startled her partner, Kathryn kissed the man whom she had loved for years.
Kathryn rose on tip-toe to provide herself better access to those wonderfully disturbing lips. Tiny electric tingles ran the length of her body at the heightened contact that resulted from her new position.
Chakotay responded to her motions by engulfing her small form with his tender embrace; his heart pounding wildly. A flicker of a thought wondering what he'd done to deserve this woman drifted through his mind, but was quickly drowned in the symphony that was Kathryn Janeway.
He groaned, burying his hands in her glorious hair, and moving to cup her face in a palm, he broke off the kiss. He wanted to cherish her, to be gentle, but he was quickly losing his tenuous grasp on control. The way her half closed eyes tracked his lips wasn't helping.
Lovingly stroking her jaw with a trembling hand, his mouth fell upon hers again. What was the use fighting it? He gave himself up the feelings, pulling her up off her feet, drinking deeply of her essence.
The loud screech of metal against metal and a blinding light filtered into their passion-drenched brains, causing them to jerk apart.
They stood wide-eyed and vulnerable as the light dimmed to a tolerable level. Chakotay held Kathryn's hand in his own, and had moved to stand protectively closer to her.
A figure stepped forward from the light. It was the tall woman from the Court of Artuenican. She raised a scroll and spoke. "Kolmar is served. Your frustration and our frustration have been counter-balanced. Penance is complete. Go in peace." The figure vanished as did the surrounding scenery. They found themselves standing in the landing bay where they'd originally landed.
Kathryn and Chakotay eyed each other utterly speechless as the full meaning of Kolmar dawned. Chakotay reached a tender hand toward Kathryn's swollen lips.
"I think..." He was cut off by an echoing mechanical voice.
"The transfer of your vessel is complete. Our business is concluded. Good-bye." They felt the tingle of a transporter.
"NO! Wait!" It was too late.
#
#
"Captain?"
Janeway looked around the bridge of Voyager. The stares on everyone's faces caused her to look at herself then her first officer. They were both filthy and her arm ached.
Tuvok quirked an eyebrow, noting the clasped hands, and spoke again. "Captain, Commander welcome back. The Winocans transported the shuttle back an hour ago."
"How long were we gone?" She asked, the exhaustion was setting in. She tried to ignore the Commander, hoping the passion of just minutes earlier wasn't detectable.
"Three days," Tuvok responded. "We were concerned, though the Winocans promised us you would be returning."
She just nodded.
Tom grinned to himself, he just had to find out what had happened--though he strongly suspected a lot would be left out from their reports. "The Winocans also completed transfer of the materials two hours ago. We've been asked to vacate their space as soon as you are on board."
"Well then, let's leave. Set a course back to the alpha quadrant warp seven."
"Already done."
"Then get us out of here..." The sooner the better.
She was about to suggest that they both take 48 hours off and sleep when the Doctor contacted them. "I should have known you would return and not contact me. You both are required to report to sick-bay now."
"And how are you Doctor," Janeway said. She'd rather have a bath first.
"Captain...now."
Tom laughed. "He had kittens while you were away."
Janeway smiled at the phrase. "Well Commander, we won't have any peace until we go to sick-bay."
They both failed to notice the smiles that followed them out.
#
#
Janeway was startled by something soft rubbing her ankles as she entered sick-bay. She looked down and smiled. It was a calico cat.
"Ah, Captain, Commander have a seat. Sophia please." He reached down and picked up the cat. "My newest experiment. I've noticed that the crew is uncomfortable coming here, so I programmed Sophia to greet patients." The cat jumped out of his arms. He pulled out his tricorder and started examining the Commander. "Too much strenuous activity...The healing is satisfactory...but would have been better if you had followed instructions."
"A little difficult," Chakotay replied.
"Uh huh. Hmmm. I'm detecting high levels of..." The Doctor replied. He started to scan the Captain, then noticed her makeshift band-aide. Carefully he removed the wrapping. "I suppose I should require a refresher course on proper field medicine." He took out the tissue regenerator. "There will be a small scar, but otherwise the wound is fine." He grinned as he continued her examination. "You are both suffering from dehydration and exhaustion. I'm placing you on medical leave for the next 48 hours. I want you both to eat and drink plenty of liquids and sleep." His grin grew bigger, "Light exercise would be acceptable."
#
#
Voyager's command team walked quietly through the corridor until they reached the turbolift. Once inside Chakotay wrapped Kathryn in his arms and ordered the lift to halt. "What are we going to do?"
"I don't know about you, but for once I intend to follow doctor's orders." She smiled, almost shyly and let her fingers trace the lines of his tattoo. "I'm headed straight for the bathtub, then a big dinner and my bed."
Chakotay nuzzled against the hollow of her throat. "Hmm, sounds like a plan."
Kathryn's smile deepened as she returned the attention. "There's room for two."
"Computer, resume." He failed to keep the impatience from his voice.
There was no response to Chakotay's request. No answering chirp, no subtle motion.
"Computer?" He looked toward the pick-up in disbelief. His only response was a sudden dimming of the lights within the turbo-lift. The level of illumination decreased by 50%.
"Computer," Kathryn tried. "Raise illumination." Silence.
Casting a glance toward Chakotay, she tapped her commbadge. The answering chirp of acknowledgment followed readily. "Janeway to Engineering."
"Torres here. How can I help you, Captain?" The chief engineer seemed to be in a pleasant mood. Kathryn wasted no time setting about spoiling it.
"Commander Chakotay and I are on Turbo-lift 5, and it seems to be malfunctioning. Is there anything you can do about it in the next 30 seconds?"
"Give me a minute...Captain." There were several seconds of silence as B'Elanna checked the status of the turbo-lift systems. "This is different..." she murmured.
"What's different?" Kathryn wanted to know. She was anxious to get beyond the 'trapped' she'd been since entering Winocan space.
"The readings," B'Elanna murmured. "I don't quite understand it..."
"Alright then," Kathryn spoke again. "Lock on and beam the Commander and I to the corridor outside our quarters."
"Aye Captain," B'Elanna agreed.
Both Captain and Commander waited expectantly for the tingle that would signal their release from captivity. None came...
"Uh...Captain..." B'Elanna spoke again over the comm-link. Kathryn's face fell, and then settled again into an authoritative mask. B'Elanna signed off, promising to keep the updated on her progress.
Chakotay pulled Kathryn toward him. He was determined not to let a little uncooperative technology get in his way. He'd just wrapped his arms about her when the lights went out completely, followed by a slight jolt as if the lift had dropped, rapidly, several inches.
He groaned in frustration. He was beginning to wonder if there was some cosmic conspiracy working to keep the two of them apart.
#
#
B'Elanna turned and looked at Tom, then glanced around engineering. "You're crazy."
"Possibly." He tapped his comm-badge. "Hurry up Harry."
Harry's voice sounded a bit exasperated. "If she kills me, I'm taking you with me. Two more minutes."
Tom nodded to B'Elanna, who then contacted the trapped couple. "Captain, we should have you out of there in five minutes. It's just a minor short in the power grid."
"Very good, *Lieutenant.*" Something in the tone caused B'Elanna to wince as she closed the connection. "*Lieutenant,* you owe me big time."
Tom pouted as he locked the transporter beam and waited for Harry's signal.
"Tom," Harry's voice said. "We're clear. You can transport them now."
B'Elanna sighed with relief as she pushed Tom's hands away from the controls. "Captain, we're able to transport you now." She didn't wait for a response, but began the transport.
#
#
Kathryn was responding when she felt the familiar tingle of a transporter. The walls of the lift disappeared, to be replaced by her quarters. She stood there, her mouth open wide.
Chakotay smiled slightly at her surprise and the crew's creativity. There was a small table covered with a white tablecloth. On a cart next to the table were two covered dishes and a bottle of wine. The candle on the table flickered.
Kathryn laughed as she walked over to the cart. "Leola root casserole?"
He sniffed the air. "I don't think so."
Chakotay crossed the room and lifted the lid on the main course. "Looks more like spaghetti. Hungry?"
Kathryn was not paying attention. "What? Oh, yes. I'm famished. Chakotay who do you think is responsible for all this? It is not the reaction I thought the crew would have."
Chakotay replaced the lid and wrapped his arms around Kathryn. "I fairly sure who is responsible. I'll take care of it tomorrow."
Kathryn's eyes narrowed, "Maybe a shift in the Mess Hall."
He shook his head as he drew her to him. "Actually I was thinking of thanking them."
Kathryn's chuckle was silenced by the kiss. She was breathless and her head was spinning when he pulled away. A sudden shyness gripped her. "I thought we were going to have dinner. I'm still hungry."
"So am I, but it can wait if you want to eat."
Kathryn blushed deeply. "Eat first. And I still want that bath."
"Me too."
They sat and ate, but neither could would be able to remember if the meal was replicated or Neelix's concoction. Chakotay nearly wolfed his plate down in his anticipation. Kathryn's head was still spinning and her heart pounding. When the meal was cleared Chakotay once again drew his captain into his arms.
"Now about that bath..."
Now that the moment had come, and the familiar trappings of home surrounded them, Kathryn found that she was more than a little nervous. Her stomach was in knots. She wondered if what little she did eat was now staging a revolt.
Chakotay, noticing her sudden stillness, softened his hold and drew back a little. "Kathryn?" he spoke her name softly, releasing her altogether when she moved toward the sofa and sat.
Kathryn knew he was probably confused by her behavior. She was confused by her behavior! But still, there was something that niggled in the back of her mind. She stared pensively at the flooring as she carefully chose her words.
Chakotay bit the inside of his mouth and waited. His eyes didn't miss the way she toyed with a nail, and then moved to the hem of a sleeve. When her hands stilled, and she turned a composed face to meet his, he knew her decision.
"If I may say something?" he beat her to the punch, even as her lips parted to speak.
"Yes..." she allowed, only a touch of the uncertainty that threatened to overflow in her voice.
He knelt on the floor beside her and took her hand, with a shy smile he started to speak. "Kathryn Janeway, I love you. Marry me?"
She was silent. He looked up at her face to try to fathom her emotions and smiled at what he saw. He pulled the hand he was holding to his lips, kissing each finger gently. "Well?"
"Chakotay, I..." She smiled, then almost laughed as the chirp from his comm-badge interrupted her.
"Chakotay here," he growled without moving.
"Commander," Neelix's voice said. "A group of us are meeting in Sandrine's for a pool tournament. We were wondering if you would care to participate?"
He laughed quietly, as he pulled her off the couch, so that she was kneeling beside him. "Not tonight. The Doctor has ordered me to bed." He closed communication and pulled her into his arms.
He kissed her gently, not wanting to spook the frightened rabbit he had just captured. When he slowly pulled away he found a whirlwind of emotions dancing through her eyes. "Well, Kathryn? Will you marry me?"
From Kathryn's vantage point the room seemed to be spinning at an unnatural ellipse. No matter how hard she tried she could not bring her thoughts and emotions under control. A moment ago she had been prepared to tell her First Officer that they were moving too fast, that they must slow down maybe even cool things off. But now she couldn't speak, his proposal had caught her completely off guard; so had her reaction. It had taken every bit of self control she had ever developed not to throw herself into his arms a moment ago. "Chakotay? Do you know what you are saying?"
His dark eyes were sparkling and his fingers trembled as he reached out to run his hand through her hair. "I know exactly what I'm saying, Kathryn. I've waited far too many years for you to admit your feelings. Now that you have come to your senses I don't want to wait any longer. You know I love you, you've known for a long time. This is right. Search your feelings, Kathryn, you know it too."
Kathryn closed her eyes, more to escape the effects of his nearness than to clear her head. She set aside the heady reaction his question caused and took a scientist's scrutiny to her emotions. Yes, she did know he loved her, and she loved him. There really wasn't a logical reason for denying it any longer. If she were truthful it was habit more than anything that had kept them apart this long.
She was smiling when she opened her eyes. Chakotay had not taken his eyes off her. She nodded slowly, "Yes, Chakotay. I will marry you."
He closed his eyes briefly as joy welled and spilled over. He felt as if a miracle had been worked for him and him alone, filling his deepest desire. His deepest needs. He opened his eyes, now serious, and took his Kathryn's hands in his and pulled her toward the viewport. He looked out at the streaming stars and back to the woman at his side.
"There is a blessing of my people," Chakotay began, taking both her hands. "A blessing from the wind, and the earth and the stars." He smiled into Kathryn's eyes as he continued to speak.
Now you will feel no rain,
For each of you will be shelter to the other.
Now you will feel no cold,
For each of you will be warmth to the other.
Now you will feel no loneliness.
For each will be a companion to the other.
Now you are two bodies,
But there is only one life before you.
Go now to your dwelling place,
To enter into the days of your togetherness.
And may your days be good and long.**
"I promise you all of these things, Kathryn. To shelter you without overshadowing; to warm you from the cold; to be your faithful companion, giving you my life as your own. You once gave this angry warrior peace, and now he's come home."
Kathryn gazed back misty-eyed. "Chakotay I..." Her voice trailed off as he stepped closer.
His lips silenced what ever comment she was planning on making. His fingers ran through her hair. They were fast becoming lost in their rising passions.
She pulled back, when his fingers snarled in a tangle. She smiled, then started laughing.
"Kathryn?" He was starting to laugh too.
She ran her fingers along a smudge on his cheek. "I do believe we..." She kissed him quickly. "I'm going to get cleaned up. After you shower--I..." She blushed then laughed. The situation had its humorous side. They were dirty, tired, ...and engaged. She smiled to herself, all her dreams of being with this man, did not involve a three day ordeal and what felt like an inch of dirt...
Chakotay was tempted to follow her into the shower, but remained where he was. He looked at his hands, there were some scrapes and a lot of dirt. He thought about slipping back to his quarters and finding something clean. His uniform was destined for the recycler.
Kathryn smiled as she combed out her hair. Sonic showers were good for one thing. Speed. She slipped into the clothes she had chosen.
Chakotay looked up as she entered. "You look...comfortable."
She laughed, she was wearing a dark red sweatsuit. "I'm entitled to be comfortable. Go get cleaned up." She smiled to herself as she watched him.
She listened carefully, as the hum of the shower stopped. She quickly slipped off the sweats. She adjusted the straps of the black-lace teddy as she ordered the lights reduced to just five-percent.
When Chakotay rounded the corner his eyes widened with pleasure. He had expected the flouncy comfortable ensemble he had last seen on his captain, and the seductive black lace garment she now sported was more than enticing.
Kathryn was only slightly self-conscious as she closed the distance between them and began to toy with the towel wrapped around his waist. "Do you like it?"
Chakotay's eyes were dancing across the barely concealed flesh below the lace. "I'd say so, yes."
Kathryn's fingers found the knot securing the towel and she gave it a forceful tug. "Good."
As the damp towel toppled to the floor, Chakotay slid his arms around Kathryn and traced the edges of the teddy. He made no further effort to control the passion he had been feeling. Four years of frustration and longing erupted from his heart as he kissed Kathryn's waiting mouth.
Without breaking the contact between their bodies Kathryn began to lead her lover across the room and into her bed. When they reached the bunk Chakotay sank to his knees and gently pulled Kathryn down onto the bed. His hands began to explore beneath the lingerie; savoring the feel of areas he had long imagined.
Kathryn began to moan in pleasure, for once completely indifferent to the responsibilities and cares of the ship outside her quarters; totally enraptured with the man whom she had just agreed to spend her life. She was not immune to the pent up frustrations of four years of lust, and as Chakotay continued his exploration of her body she began a similar conquest.
Chakotay nearly lost control when Kathryn licked her way across the length of his body. His hands plunged into the damp recesses of her hair, his fingers twitching in reaction. His breath came in gasps as she concentrated her attention below his waist.
By the time Kathryn had elicited the desired response from his body, both were trembling with desire. As Kathryn lifted her head Chakotay rolled himself over her and drew one nipple and then the other between his warm lips. Kathryn gasped as a shaft of pleasure shot through her being, and Chakotay took that as a sign.
Firmly repressing the need to bury himself completely inside this woman, Chakotay slowly eased his way inside the woman he loved. There would be only one first time in their relationship and he did not want it to end too quickly. The slow rhythm drove them both wild with anticipation, but it was Kathryn who finally took them over the edge. Wrapping her legs around his thighs she rolled them over and pushed herself down until she had engulfed every inch of her partner. The pace she set for them told Chakotay that she was fast approaching her climax and he let himself freely enjoy the sensation. As Kathryn cried out in release he felt his own body reacting and his voice joined hers.
Kathryn slumped atop his chest and he cradled her gently against his thrumming heart. They remained joined in this fashion for what seemed a long time, but was probably only a few minutes. As the more immediate signs of their activity faded, Chakotay drew the hair out of Kathryn's face and tenderly kissed her lips.
Kathryn's smile as he pulled away was angelic. "I'm sure I just caused several hundred StarFleet Admirals to roll over in their graves."
"Our ancestors will get over it."
"That's strange talk from someone who treasures his heritage."
"But not from the man who just became the happiest being in the universe."
They held each other for a long time, enjoying the feel of one another's bodies and exploring the dynamic of their new relationship. Around 2300 hours they made love again, this time with the certainty that what they had shared was not going to be lost. When sleep claimed them they were still nestled together in Kathryn's bed as if they were the only two lovers in the universe.
#
#
Kathryn slowly awoke to the smell of coffee, and soap and something...strange, yet familiar. She rolled over to examine her surroundings. As her eyes fell upon a pair of black boots (not her own), a pair of bare feet strolled into the room, crossing into her line of vision. Her eyes traveled up the dark uniform to the smiling face.
"Good morning, my dear, sweet, beautiful Kathryn." Chakotay sat a tray on the side table, punctuating each word with a kiss.
Kathryn returned the kiss, giggling.
"What?" Chakotay grinned down at her, enjoying seeing her hair down, literally and figuratively. He also contended with a mild disbelief that there would be more days like this to come. He felt like a kid in a candy store, fearful that some adult would force him to leave.
"I was just thinking," Kathryn laughed slyly. "You taste like cinnamon..."
Chakotay frowned in amused confusion. "Why is that so funny?"
"I always imagined you would taste like cinnamon..." her voice trailed off as he trailed a finger down her cheek.
He smiled softly, happily. "So you did imagine..."
"You bet..." They both jumped apart when the alarm sounded, then fell into one another's arms laughing.
"So, when do we break the news to the crew?" Chakotay asked.
#
#
Tom tapped the nav console nervously. His band of conspirators hadn't heard anything from the Captain or Commander about breaking into her quarters. He didn't know if not hearing was good or bad...B'Elanna assured him that they were just biding their time. He felt Tuvok's eyes on him again. Tom didn't dare turn to look at Harry again. The young ensign was jumpy enough.
Tom caught his breath as he listened to the turbo-lift doors open. He still didn't turn around.
"Good morning Commander," Tuvok said. Tom figured that just Chakotay had appeared. He wondered where the Captain was.
Harry silently watched the Commander sit down. No mention of where the Captain was. He glanced around quickly, before quietly requesting the information from the computer. She was in the mess hall...Why, he had no idea.
#
#
Kathryn grinned as she entered the bridge. She's been grinning all morning. She just couldn't make it disappear. She smiled at Chakotay and nodded. He nodded in return. "Captain, I'll be in my office."
"Very good Commander, I'll let you know when Neelix arrives." Her smile grew bigger at Tom's totally perplexed face.
#
#
It was nearly an hour later when Neelix bounded onto the Bridge. By this time Harry was a complete wreck, and Tom wasn't far behind. Both men flinched visibly when Neelix reported to the Captain.
"Ah, Mr. Neelix. Thank you for taking care of everything so quickly."
"My pleasure Captain."
Tom was now very nervous, Neelix was positively beaming. *Hold on Tommy-boy,* he told himself *this doesn't look good.* When Janeway called Chakotay and ordered him to the Bridge he began to sweat.
"Mr. Paris?"
Tom nearly broke his neck turning around. "Yes, Ma'am. "he squeaked.
Janeway's look was one of pure enjoyment. She glanced briefly at Chakotay as he entered and took his place at her side. Janeway took a step forward and placed her hands on her hips. "Mr. Paris, I have a special assignment for you."
Tom swallowed noisily. "What's that Captain?"
"For the next two weeks you are assigned to Mr. Neelix. You will be helping him prepare for an upcoming event."
Tom was both relieved and horrified. Two weeks with Neelix was not the worst thing he had imagined, but it wasn't the best either. "What kind of event Neelix?" he asked the morale officer.
Neelix shook his head. "That is up to the Captain, Tom."
Janeway turned around and smiled at Chakotay. "Harry, open ship wide communication." When Harry nodded his compliance she took Chakotay's hand in hers and made the announcement.
"Attention all hands, this is the Captain. I would like to take this opportunity to inform everyone of a decision I reached recently. Commander Chakotay has asked me to marry him, and I have accepted. I hope everyone will adjust to this change in our relationship, but rest assured that it will in no way impact our ability to guide this crew home."
Harry spoke as soon as she was finished. "It was a very nice speech, Captain, but you might want to repeat it later. No one heard anything past the third sentence.
At Janeway's puzzled expression he smiled and hit the button on his panel to reverse the com-signal. Loud cheers could be heard from every deck.
"Well, Kathryn, I think we were worried over nothing." grinned Chakotay as the Bridge crew added their voices to the rest of the crew.
The End
** Apache Wedding Blessing - found it on an interesting Native American Wedding Site.