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Disclaimer: Paramont owns all things Trek, which includes I think everything in this story. I own nothing.

Chakotay parked his small shuttle in the student parking lot at Starfleet Academy. With a smile, he looked at a replica of the Enterprise that Captain Sulu gave him for luck. Making it here was an achievement he had could only dream about for several years, and didn't think it would come true until one day he met Captain Sulu. Chakotay didn't recognize the captain. However, as they spoke, Chakotay felt at ease with the man and he talked about his desire to enter the academy. The captain inquired about Chakotay's experiences as a pilot and warned him about the difficulties that officers go through. At the end of the conversation, Captain Sulu identified himself and said he would keep in touch. After developing a friendship with the captain, Chakotay finally asked him to sponsor him as a cadet, and Sulu said he would consider it an honor to sponsor a gifted young man who wanted to follow a dream. The day that Chakotay sent in his application, he thought that he understood his fortune in having the backing of a respected Starfleet captain. At the same time, he almost felt ashamed because Chakotay never confided this dream to his father. He knew his father would never approve of his attending the academy because he thought Chakotay belonged with his people.

Chakotay put the replica back in its place on his shuttle. He looked around in awe. The young Indian followed a group into the main hall. Once he got into the main auditorium he felt a rush of excitement that he almost couldn't contain. He had never seen so many people gathered in one area before. Here he stood looking at the 10,000 people from all over the galaxy that made up the new Starfleet Academy class. Starfleet only accepted the best and the brightest, and he stood in awe that they chose him to stand among them. Back on Dorvan V, when his tribe got together it was nothing like this. Here he absorbed the activity and energy that he found with the rest of the cadets, at home he felt like everyone was half dead. The cadet remembered the last words his father said before Chakotay left, "Your place is with your people, Chakotay". Now he knew that these cadets were "his people" and he couldn't choose a better group.

He took a seat towards the back of the auditorium where he planned to meet his new roommates. As the only Klingon in this class, K'Kerth should stand out. His other roommate, Nebya, a Bolian would arrive with the Klingon and one other person named Benwholijen Jenkins of Noff. Chakotay had studied many of the cultures represented in this class after finding out about the makeup his first year class. He couldn't learn a lot about the Noff because the Federation didn't have much information about them yet. The Noff had only joined the Federation a few years ago. In fact, Cadet Jenkins would be the first from that culture to attend the Academy. He did know that the Noff have an instinctive foresight. It's said that when you talk to a Noff, sometimes they will reveal something about the future without realizing it. The Federation had concerns about what this would mean to the temporal prime directive. Chakotay read a story that said while signing the charter, a quick witted Noff said, "I don't think you need to worry about that, we won't be a part of the Federation that long."

Chakotay contented himself by sitting in a chair and watching the cadets as they entered. He noticed that towards the front of the auditorium, most of the cadets seemed very staid. For the most part these cadets attended with Starfleet officers of all ranks and seemed accustomed to the pomp and circumstance involved in this orientation weekend. He assumed that the cadets segregated themselves so that the sons and daughters of Starfleet officers sat with the people they grew up with in the front, while the strangers got together in the back of the massive auditorium. The students in the back acted more excited. Like Chakotay, they understood the great honor of making it this far, but also contained their excitement at the idea of this new adventure. Chakotay met several of his classmates as he waited for his roommates. Finally he saw a Klingon, a Bolian, and another person with dark neon green skin and what appeared to be horns in the place of most humanoid ears. When he recognized that these must be his new roommates and their friend, it finally sunk in to him that his first year as an academy cadet has begun.

He approached the trio and said, "You must be K'Kerth, Nebya and Benwholijen. I am Chakotay."

The Noff offered his hand to the Indian and with a smile on his face said, "Good to meet you Chakotay. Please call me Ben. These are my parents Shejaca and Carjada." Chakotay shook hands with Ben's parents and the group found seats in the back as they began to get better acquainted.

***

Admiral Janeway walked with his daughter for the first meeting of her new colleagues. Though he couldn't say it to her, he couldn't remember a prouder moment in his life. Kathryn had always shown a great intellect and determination, but her academy exam results were even better than he could have hoped. Now she would carry on the proud tradition of serving in Starfleet, a tradition began even before Starfleet existed. The admiral guided his daughter to a seat in the front of the auditorium.

Kate immediately found her friends with their parents. Shelly, her best friend sat with Jacob and talked about which cadets had the best chances of making it through the first year. About two thirds of all first year cadets drop out by year's end. Of the remaining third, only half will actually graduate. To make it through the Academy, a person must show great intellect, but also character, honor, courage, leadership, persistence, and tenacity. Most people can't do it. As the son of a Starfleet Admiral who serves on the committee that chooses the cadets, Jacob knows well that many won't make it. He also took a peak at the admissions files his mother brought home and decided he knew who those people were.

As Jacob told his friends that he didn't believe Klingons even belong in Starfleet. Shelly agreed with every statement he made. Though Kate counted Shelly as one of her best friends, how she got into the Academy always perplexed Kate. Jacob, for all his faults, had a commanding presence. He could make a decision and stick with it. He had a high degree of intelligence. While some of his weaknesses include arrogance, bigotry, and an aggressive nature, Kate could understand how those might become strengths on a starship. Shelly on the other hand came across as an airhead with almost no depth as a person. Having no opinion of her own, she would agree with anyone who happened to be around her at the time. She could memorize facts and figures, an ability that helped her in her schoolwork, but overall, Kate worried about ever having to be in a combat situation with Shelly. When Jacob and Shelly started dating, it came as no surprise, but Kate often wondered if the relationship was a good one for Shelly. Kate wanted the best for her best friend, and she hoped that the Academy would help her grow into a more three dimensional person.

The group of Starfleet children sat down and listened to the first of instructions. Shelly kept writing notes to Jacob and Kate throughout the instructions. Kate tried to ignore them, while Jacob and Shelly kept giggling. Kate couldn't help finding herself a little relieved when the first meeting ended and the cadets had free time. Kate said that she wanted to get settled into her room before going to lunch, while Jacob and Shelly went straight to the mess hall.

***

During this orientation period, the Academy encouraged the cadets to meet each other. The first few weeks before classes began would take a lot of adjustment and teamwork. The faculty used time to interact with the new students so they could better create individual challenges for each. The faculty, under the leadership of Admiral Tock of Vulcan, stressed the need for character growth in their curriculum. The admiral and his sub chancellor, Commander Robert Tres had a system for observing each student during this time. Admiral Tock created it because of its logic, as a Betazoid and a counselor; Commander Tres enjoyed seeing his subjects in their native areas. Besides the two men, no one on faculty understood the system their commanding officers used, but they had high regard for both men in part because of their high success rate. Under their leadership, Starfleet Academy stood as the most prestigious school in the Alpha Quadrant.

Chakotay, his roommates, Ben and his parents opted to use their free time to get settled and then to eat. As he sat in the mess hall and watched all the activity around him, Chakotay decided that he came to the Academy in part to get away from the rules and regulations his father and tribe put on him. His new friends seemed like a lot of fun, and they would help him to stay as far from the cold Indian discipline of his father's people as possible. Chakotay knew that as a Klingon, K'Kerth held honor above everything else. Chakotay found himself immediately admiring K'Kerth's serious attitude towards everything in life, as well as his determination to fit into the society. Chakotay knew that K'Kerth would be the type of person that would have his back in everything that they did. He also knew that K'Kerth's temper would get the Klingon in trouble. He hoped to help K'Kerth keep that in check as time went on. Nebya on the other hand would balance out K'Kerth. Nebya would very likely teach his roommates to have fun and try new things. Chakotay worried about some of the foods in particular that Nebya would want them to try, but he knew that the Bolian culture required that of him or else he would spend a long semester as the object of his roommate's suspicion.

The Bolian and the Klingon developed a most unusual repartee. As Chakotay watched his roommates become more acquainted, he hoped the Bolian would eventually realize that the Klingon's responses did not have the same good natured attitude as the Bolian's. At lunch, Chakotay noticed Ben looking first at him, then at a table across the room. Chakotay tapped Ben on the shoulder, "Reading someone's future?"

"Maybe. It's just a sense. What do you think of that red head over at the far table?"

"Only here for a few hours and already you got your eye on someone." Chakotay laughed and excused himself from the table, never looking at the cadet Ben pointed out to him. Admiral Tock however did notice Ben and heard his inquiry. He made a mental note to instruct the faculty to try and keep Cadets Chakotay and Janeway apart. The Admiral had high expectations for both and he didn't want either to fall short of those expectations because of an academy romance.

Shelly noticed Ben looking over at their table and assumed he was leering at her. She turned to the group and pointed his table out to Jacob and Kate. "Who is that green guy with horns? He's creepy, and he keeps looking at me."

Jacob took a quick look and said, "Well if it isn't Benwholijen Jenkins from Noff. Tock apparently interviewed him and just absolutely adored him. Of course what do you expect from a Vulcan? Their species refused to trust humans because of our alleged violent past, but welcomed the Klingons with open arms. I have never understood the logic that Vulcans subscribe to. I think it was Tock who allowed the Klingon in as well."

"Well, I don't like the looks of him. That whole table in fact just seems wrong somehow." Shelly said.

"I'll go talk to them." As a boxer, Jacob had always used his physical strength to intimidate people in school. He not only had a lean, muscular build, he was tall with blond hair and blue eyes. Kate covered her eyes as he got up to "talk" to the cadets. Kate didn't know much about Klingon culture, but she hoped that the Klingon sitting at the table didn't have as quick a fuse as Jacob did.

***

"Admiral, come on, you know me. Would I have started that fight?" Jacob gave his most innocent look, hoping that Admiral Tock would believe his sincerity.

The Vulcan immediately raised an eyebrow in response. Once his equivalent of a fit of laughter ended, Admiral Tock said, "Cadet, one of the principles of Starfleet is that each culture get along with one another. You obviously see yourself as a born leader. Not only have you mentioned that several times during this conversation, but also as you have grown up and assumed that your rightful place was here, following in the footsteps of your mother. I would suggest that you use this alleged leadership quality to try and help your fellow cadets. You will need their help in order to make it through the next several weeks, and any time after that which you spend here at the academy."

Jacob became angry and told the Vulcan that he didn't need the help of "those people" because he had Starfleet blood coursing through his veins and would continue in that tradition. Then he asked when the Klingon would get the punishment he deserved.

"As your, breeding, has no doubt taught you, we do not 'punish' Academy cadets, we give out fair discipline when we feel it is necessary. In this case, it is not the student who you fought with that we believe require corrective action taken. Even if we did believe that, we would not seek your input into the type or amount of discipline to take."

"But they "

"Cadet, your bigotry has been noted. If you wish to continue this discussion, be advised that the academy does have a brig that not even your high ranking mother can get you out of." Jacob left without saying another word.

***

K'Kerth lay on his back on his bed in Cockrane Hall. Chakotay did the same on his bed against the opposite wall while throwing a ball in the air and catching it. "You should have seen it Chakotay. He seemed to think that since he is an admiral's son, he could do anything. What a P'ToQ. He threatened Ben, so I stood up and told him that if he laid one finger on my friend, I would disconnect his arms and reattach them where his legs should go." As he told the story, K'Kerth got up so that he could reenact the interesting portions using the Bolian as his adversary.

Nebya chimed in and said, "I thought he was going to pee right there, but instead he said, and I quote, 'I am the son of a Starfleet admiral, and I must request that you not look at my girlfriend that way.'" The Bolian put his hands on his hips, used a high pitched voice and moved his shoulders back and forth to mock the cadet. K'Kerth laughed heartily at the impression, slapping his blue faced roommate on the back. Chakotay almost went to make sure that the Bolian was okay, but didn't have to when he noticed both guys laughing. Nebya continued in his highly animated way of telling a story, "Then K'Kerth said, 'I am the son of K'Tara and I must ask that you leave this table now.' I expected him to run away."

"I wanted to give him a warning, but maybe I was too subtle."

The Bolian laughed and continued acting out the story, "So blond boy said, 'I should warn you, I have placed first four years running in boxing.' K'Kerth said that he didn't have any competitions like that; Klingons just fight to the death. Blond boy then hit K'Kerth."

"You call that a hit? I've taken worse attacks from Targs on my homeworld." The Bolian and the Klingon continued to laugh about their adventure.

Chakotay however didn't find the story as much fun as his roommates obviously did. He understood that even provoked as K'Kerth was, that fight could have gotten him kicked out of the Academy. He also had the words of his father running through his mind. His people believed in non violent ways of settling differences. He was glad to see his roommates getting along so well, but he felt uncomfortable with the story they told. However, Chakotay laughed and said, "I wish I could have seen you slap that smug look off his face. It's too bad that I left the table when I did."

Chakotay excused himself and went to the hall, where he saw Commander Tres. The Betazoid man asked the young cadet what was wrong. Chakotay asked him what he meant. "I am sensing that you have many, many questions. You seem confused. Come on, let's talk." The Betazoid led him down the hall and for the first time he saw the beautiful red haired cadet that Ben tried pointing out to him earlier. She didn't notice the commander and Chakotay, but in the instant that Chakotay saw her, he felt like his life for the first time came into focus. Commander Tres sensed the new feeling that the young cadet had and smiled in amusement. "Hmmmm, now you seem even more confused than before." The Betazoid smiled and said, "her name is Kathryn Janeway, but she goes by Kate. Take some advice, keep your head in your books and forget about the girls until after you graduate." Chakotay smiled and continued following the commander.

***

Kate finally made it to Justin's room. She and Justin dated on and off throughout high school. This year was Justin's final year as a cadet. He already knew that his first assignment would be on the Al Batani. Because when he graduated at the end of the year, Kate would still have three years left for school, they decided that while at the Academy they would start as friends and if anything developed, then they would see where it would go. Kate would always consider Justin her first love, but anytime she saw him she thought something was missing. She just couldn't see a future with him, despite wanting one.

"I heard Jacob's story about the fight, what really happened?" Justin asked with a smile.

"Probably exactly what you think. Shelly thought someone was looking at her and Jacob claimed the superiority of humans over Noff, Vulcans, and Klingons."

"Oh he restricted himself to just three races this time. He's humbling." Justin said as he rolled his eyes.

"There were only three races at the table. Once he had himself worked up, he went to talk to the Noff and ended up hitting the Klingon."

"I bet the Klingon took that well," Justin's voice dripped with sarcasm. "I heard that Jacob and some others are planning some sort of retaliation as we speak."

"Yeah, I was supposed to be there, but I really don't want to be a part of that when everyone gets kicked out."

"So that's why you came to visit me?" Justin still had a smile glued on his face. He realized that he must look like a geek every time he sees Kate, but he didn't care anymore. He decided a long time ago that he would happily wait for her since he believed in the end they would end up together.

"I need to learn to spend time with people even more sensible than me."

"Sometimes Kate, I think even a Klingon could be more sensible than you." Both laughed as Kate playfully slapped Justin's arm.

***

Chakotay found himself in the Betazoid's office. As he looked around he thought he finally understood all the lessons he had ever received about the use of colors in his art and social science classes. The commander sat his desk in the middle of a round room and on a rotating platform so that no matter the culture of a student anyone that came in would face a wall designed to make him feel serene. Chakotay saw a lot of cool colors and earth tones. He also heard music that he found serene, and wondered if there was a machine somewhere that generated culturally sensitive music.

Commander Tres immediately picked up on Chakotay's curiosity of why he laid out the room the way he did. With a smile, the commander said to his amazed student, "Most people find this a relaxing place, as you seem to notice, I tried to make sure of that. Klingons can't stand it here. I have another office for them. It's black room with a red light." He gestured to Chakotay to sit down and seeing the interest still on the yong man's face, he said, "There aren't many people who come in here and accept the serene feeling of this space and question what makes it so. I assume that is the source of your conflict?"

Chakotay had taken several classes in high school that taught him an awareness of his environment and feelings about it. Having a natural affinity for introspection, Chakotay always felt like he knew himself and his problems pretty well. However, he didn't sense the conflict that the Commander obviously did. "What do you mean?"

"You are trapped between two worlds, the one that you think you want and the one that you grew up in." Chakotay still didn't get it. "I heard what the guys in your room were saying and I know what you were feeling. On one hand you have the teachings of your people, a primarily non violent race who have pressured you to take on their ideals all your life. On the other hand, you want to be who you think you are. And if it turns out that you aren't the person you think you are, you want to determine who you really are. Am I right?"

Chakotay had to think for a couple minutes to figure out what the sub chancellor just said. Commander Tres sat patiently smiling as he watched the student work through the statement, a little amused as he saw Chakotay's face change just a little with each new thought. Commander Tres remembered the cadet's interview admission. Chakotay impressed the counselor by always taking his time and thinking through both questions and answers before saying anything. Academically, the young man did not perform as well as several of his classmates, but the sub chancellor pushed for his admission because he knew that Chakotay had a sharp mind and an impeccable character. He saw Chakotay as a leader and made sure that he lived with the roommates he has. His understanding of cultures and inter species communication made Commander Tres believed that while Nebya and K'Kerth would balance each other out, Chakotay could teach them both about restraint. They would in turn teach Chakotay lessons about having passion and honor. The commander also took an instant liking to Chakotay because he saw Chakotay as a possible protÈgÈ. He knew that Chakotay had insights into people and interests in cultures that should be developed. The sub chancellor hoped to help cultivate that interest.

"I can't say that you're wrong, though I am hesitant to agree that I am stuck between two cultural ideals. I have dismissed the teachings of my people. They are not interested in seeing what is out in the universe, and I refuse to live with them in the 20th century. That is why I am here."

The Commander smiled at his youthful arrogance. He knew that in time this student would begin to value the teachings of his people and the foundation they gave him. He hoped that when that time came, it wasn't too late for Chakotay. "Your conflict comes from trying so hard to get away from who you are. You need to bridge the gap between the beliefs of your people and the person you will become here at Starfleet. Your friends likely won't make it all the way through the academy. But you, I think you will go far. Don't rebel against what you know, use it to know more." Chakotay gave him a look and the Commander knew that he understood, but wanted to think about it a little more. "You have a good mind, that is why you are here, you have a good heart, that is why you will stay. Your heart will guide you throughout your life. Take some time to get to know it. You could also take out your medicine bundle and consult your spirit guide. "

Chakotay thought about the words of the counselor and realized in spite of himself that Commander Tres was right. However, Chakotay knew that he would need to think about what he said. Chakotay got up and started to leave. The commander hesitated before walking him out. He looked at the young man in front of him and with a smile said, "I don't know if I should tell you this, but she didn't see you. I couldn't read her feelings." The two men smiled at each other.

***

The part of Orientation Weekend that parents could attend had concluded. Admiral Tock addressed parents and students by making his formal address. "The most difficult thing that a cadet must learn in Starfleet Academy is teamwork. We can give you the facts that you need to do the work of an engineer, or in ops or at a tactical station. What has to come from you is your ability to work with each other for survival and in large projects. Some of you may be familiar with what some call the "Wilderness Test". For those who are not, throughout the semester, and during each semester you attend, we will take you out of class and put you in various locations either by yourself, with one other person, or a group of other people. You will have a challenge to complete. You will not pass the semester until you have completed your assignment. Days out of class will count as absences, so your grades will be affected. Those of you who want to join the Nova Squad may miss tryouts, others of you may miss sporting events or other happenings that seem important to you. These tests should not be seen as anything besides opportunities for character building because we will test you on what we see as your weaknesses or help you develop a strength. I should warn you that throughout the Academy you will have several of these challenges and the tasks will get increasingly difficult. On behalf of the Admirals and faculty, I welcome you to Starfleet Academy and wish you luck."

Admiral Janeway left Kathryn with a stiff handshake. Chakotay watched as many of his class said goodbye to their families. He walked back to his room with his head down. For the first time in his life he wanted to contact the spirits. At the same time though, he decided to deny himself that because he didn't want to do anything that reminded him of home.

Kate Janeway walked back to Archer Hall with Jacob and Shelly. Once again, Chakotay and Kate crossed paths, but this time, Kate saw Chakotay and immediately became curious. She didn't know why, but something about him made her immediately want to meet him. She didn't recognize him and asked Jacob if he met the Indian. "He's another one from that group who ganged up on me. I think he rooms with the Klingon." Seeing that it was a bad topic, Kate decided to not pursue it anymore.

***

"First floor is secure, moving to the fourth."

K'Kerth heard his roommate's report and reported back. "Acknowledged, floor three is secure. What's going on on two?"

"Hiding from some of the natives. Will be in motion soon." Chakotay rolled his eyes and wondered why he insisted that they bring the Bolian along.

"Let us know if you need help." Chakotay offered, "Fourth floor is clear, going to intercept now."

"Copy, moving to the fifth floor."

In an effort to practice skills they will need as Starfleet officers at least that's how they rationalized it Chakotay, K'Kerth, and Nebya went through the girls section of Archer Hall and stole all the bars of soap. Once all the soap was in their possession, the gentlemen took it back to their dorm and placed it on a bust of Zephon Cochrane. Nebya made sure that the piece was artistically done, Chakotay made sure it looked like Cochrane, and K'Kerth stood guard. K'Kerth let his "team" know that they needed to plant the bust now or wait until tomorrow. Chakotay convinced the Bolian that they needed to go and that it looked fine. Before they left Archer Hall, Kate Janeway had seen them. She watched them leave acting like commandos, then laughed at the object planted by the main entrance. The men never did figure out whether the people at the Academy knew who did it, or if they just never went after them.

While the Cochrane Threesome pulled pranks on campus, the Starfleet Brat Pack, began to enlarge their horizons. They found a coffeehouse off campus. Kate insisted that she didn't like the taste of coffee, so she went there for the ambience. One day the dark skinned guy that she saw leading the Cochrane soap prank sent her a cup of coffee when she studied alone. She thought about going up to him to introduce herself, but decided against it, even though she had an insatiable curiosity about his name. It seemed that no matter whom she talked to, she could not learn anything about him. Boothby, a groundskeeper on campus suggested that she might want to stay away from spending a lot of time with members of the opposite sex because they would take away from her study time. Kate strove to be the best at everything that she did, so she didn't want to risk her studies. Taking all this into account, she finally decided she needed to study. She couldn't help but notice however that he watched her for a little while. Just when she decided to go up and talk to him, his friends came for a study session. Finally she put her book up and willed herself to concentrate on AstroTheory. When that didn't work, she looked at the cup of coffee he sent and decided to taste it. She was pleasantly surprised at its taste.

Chakotay sat with several members of his Warp Mechanics class and looked over at Kate, who had just finished the cup of coffee he sent. He said to Quesnos, "Is she still looking this way?"

"No man, I think she's getting ready to order another cup."

"Okay," Chakotay said, a little disappointed. Then he turned to the whole group finally and asked, "What are we studying tonight?"

***

Chakotay, K'Kerth, and Nebya went to the coffee house one day after watching a piloting safety video. Since Chakotay fell asleep during it, K'Kerth and Nebya tried to fill him in. None of them noticed Jacob and Shelly when they walked in. Jacob went to their table and said, "It is generally customary for cadets to greet each other when they walk into an establishment. We are after all trying to get used to seeing so many different looking faces." The last part, he addressed to the Klingon.

K'Kerth immediately jumped up and put his fists on the table. "Only a coward would try to veil such an insult."

Chakotay immediately stood between Jacob and K'Kerth facing his friend. "K'Kerth, remember, you are a Starfleet cadet and there are other ways to solve a disagreement. Sit down and later you can teach me to use a bat'leth." Once he saw K'Kerth sit down, he finally broke eye contact and turned around. "We did not see you or else we might have greeted you more properly. As you can tell, you have interrupted our conversation. Please allow us to continue in peace." Jacob continued his skunk eye on K'Kerth and finally left.

"I could have fed him his ears. Why did you stop me?"

"Because you worked too hard to get here. You have the opportunity to graduate from Starfleet Academy. Only one other Klingon has done that so far and I want you to be the second. I know you want that too. Don't let him get to you."

***

Several weeks into the semester, Justin came to Kate and Shelly's room. Shelly answered the door and immediately called for Kate who had gone into the bathroom to change into some comfortable clothes. After a full day of wearing the stiff and itchy cadet uniform, most cadets ran as quickly as they could to put on something casual. Justin, knowing where Kate was went into the bathroom and immediately got a punch in the eye. The tall man landed flat on his back in pain. Kate immediately knelt down and checked Justin's face. She apologetically said, "I didn't know it was you. I just heard the door open and I guess my survival training kicked in and"

She stopped because Justin started laughing. His head was cradled in her arms and he quickly lifted it to give her quick kiss. When she registered what he just did, she saw him shake his head still laughing at her. She shot him a glare, which only made him laugh more. Finally he said, "One day you will be captain of a mighty starship and you will scare ensigns with that look." He jumped up and held out his right hand, holding something behind him with his left. She took the extended hand and stood up. Finally, he handed her a single white rose. More serious now, he said, "I honestly don't know what we were thinking when we decided that we shouldn't date this year. I know that my future is with you, and to pretend otherwise just doesn't make sense. I am officially asking for permission to call you my girlfriend, with all the rights and responsibilities therein."

Kate heard Shelly screech in joy. Kate tried, unsuccessfully to hide her smile. Using her best command voice, which she knew still needed some work, she said, "Admiral Tock, Commander Tres and others have advised me against such a decision. However, I believe that the time has come. Therefore, Cadet, I grant permission for you to refer to me as your girlfriend with all the rights and responsibilities therein." Justin immediately lifted her up and spun her around as she kissed him.

***

Commander Tres and Admiral Tock bounded into Chakotay's room at 0300. They picked him up while he slept and dropped him on the floor. Once he woke up, they marched him to a shuttle where he saw Ben Jenkins sitting in wait. The Vulcan sat in the pilot seat and took off. Neither Starfleet officer told the cadets where they were going. They ignored all inquiries. Soon both cadets fell asleep. When the cadets woke up, the shuttle appeared to have crashed to the surface and they didn't see their faculty members.

Chakotay was the first to speak. "I assume this is our wilderness test. I guess our mission is to get back to the academy."

"I agree. We should probably start by assessing the damage and figuring out where we are. What is your specialty area?"

"Piloting. What about you?"

"I haven't chosen one yet. Do you want to start looking at the damage while I find out where we are?" Ben gave more of an order than asked a question, but Chakotay didn't mind and agreed.

Chakotay taped his chest and said, "I didn't get my communicator before we left, do you have yours?"

Ben looked down at his chest and shook his head no. "I will come back in two hours and we can give our progress reports." The cadets started working on their tasks.

***

It seemed to K'Kerth and Nebya that the faculty tried to make as much noise as possible when they grabbed Chakotay. After they left, the guys speculated about what assignment Chakotay went on and with whom. The conversation ended when Nebya said, "I bet he went with that red head, he is always staring at. What's her name?" K'Kerth agreed that he hoped that's who Chakotay got to work with.

Anyone who saw Chakotay's roommates walk into the mess hall could see that they didn't get a good night's sleep. Nebya looked like a zombie from the 20th century movies that many cadets watched late at night, and K'Kerth looked more like he could punch someone out than usual. Seeing Jacob and friends didn't help their mood. Nebya nearly slept again at a table when Jacob slammed his tray down to wake up the Bolian. When he did, not only did Nebya wake up, but K'Kerth jumped up and immediately put the human in a headlock. Several faculty members ran to the scene of the fight immediately and tried to break it up. Before K'Kerth let go, he slammed Jacob's face onto the table. K'Kerth was immediately taken to the brig while someone called for a site to site transport of Jacob to sickbay.

Kate went to visit him with Shelly. Kate didn't believe Shelly when she said that the Bolian and the Klingon came after Jacob for no reason. Kate believed that Jacob probably instigated a fight in hopes of "cleansing the academy from the Klingon scum". Being a Klingon, K'Kerth could only hold his temper so long. She had observed that the third guy in their group seemed able to help K'Kerth keep his temper. She also knew that he had been sent on his wilderness test that morning. She felt bad for the Klingon and wished that his friend, whose name she still didn't know, had been there to help him.

Admiral Tock and Commander Tres sat down with Jacob. The Vulcan began the meeting. "As you know, the challenge that every cadet must face can come in many forms. The Commander and I decided that for you, the test would be to get along with Cadet K'Kerth and his friends. We took out one person from that social group so that not only would he get teamwork experience, but you and K'Kerth would have to get along without assistance. It is unfortunate that your actions have caused you to fail so completely and so quickly."

Jacob couldn't believe what he was hearing. "You mean that after that animal attacked me, he is going to get off without punishment?"

"Actually, that's up to you," said Commander Tres. "We're giving you a choice. You may choose to fail this test and therefore the semester. You will then have to reapply for admission to the Academy at a later date. This episode will go on your record so admission is not likely. The other choice is to stay at the academy. Cadet K'Kerth will also stay and your challenge will be a survival challenge with him and a few others you have deemed unworthy of Starfleet. We will meet in 24 hours here to hear your final decision." Admiral Tock dismissed the cadet.

Once he was gone, the Betazoid said, "We have just lost two cadets. I wouldn't be surprised if Jacob's girlfriend also left because of this."

"Our job is to weed out the ones who don't belong. I regret losing Cadet K'Kerth. He could have added to Starfleet in the same ways that Lieutenant Worf does. However, with a temper that he has no control of, he can inflict more damage than good to the federation. I believed that Cadet Young could grow here, if she chooses to do so, but she has to make that decision and I regret the decision she will likely make. Young Jacob has never had anything to add."

***

"Ah Jenkins, you're back. I think we can make this fly, but we need some dilithium. What do you know about where we are?"

"It is an inhabited planet, but without the Universal Translator, I cannot understand the language of the people."

"Language is only one part of the culture. Let me take a look around. Do you think you can work on the shuttle? I was working on the communication system. Once that's done, I have a report on what the engine needs done. If you don't know how to fix those things, I think I can. After that, I think all we need is the dilithium and we should have impulse power."

"Okay, check back in two hours."

When Chakotay returned, he had all the dilithium he could want. "How is the maintenance coming along?" He turned the corner and noticed all the parts of the engine strewn on the ground. "Jenkins, if you needed help, you should have told me, I am pretty good with an engine."

"Actually, I am upgrading the engine. There is a non operational warp drive on it that should work with a couple adjustments. Not only will this baby get us home in time for lunch, it will let our pilot have fun getting us there. Can you hand me that transponder?"

With a broad smile, Chakotay said, "Aye sir." Chakotay watched Jenkins and helped him out as he could. At the same time, Chakotay told him how he made contact with the natives. It was a little before noon when the shuttle took off. Chakotay was impressed with how the improved engine handled, while Jenkins was impressed with the piloting skills of his peer.

"Engineering."

Ben looked at Chakotay and said, "what?"

"Your specialty should be engineering. You're a natural. Maybe one day you will be the chief engineer on a ship."

"Nah, I don't want to be on a ship for a long time. I want to settle down and have a family. A starship isn't a place to raise a kid. Besides, why would I settle for chief engineer when I could be captain." They both laughed as Chakotay called in for a clearance to land.

***

Commander Tres called Chakotay to his office. The Commander told the student what happened between K'Kerth and Jacob. "There's nothing that you can do to stop him from being expelled, but I thought you might want to go talk to him. He considers you his closest friend here, and despite what they want you to see, that means a lot to a Klingon."

"I'll go see him now."

"I hoped you would say that. I'll walk you down to the brig."

Chakotay hated making this trip. He knew that K'Kerth would have problems through his Starfleet experience because of his Klingon temper. However, he hoped that K'Kerth would have the chance to stay around a little longer. Chakotay knew that his disappointment in having to say goodbye to his cloest friend did not compare to the disgrace he had to live with by going home dishonored in this way. Commander Tres walked behind Chakotay understanding his gentle spirit and his optimism about the people around him. As much as the Sub Chancellor hated seeing good cadets like K'Kerth go, he enjoyed watching bright students like Chakotay grow up little by little and accomplish more than just an "A" on a test.

Chakotay went into K'Kerth's cell and saw the Klingon sitting with his head down in the far corner. "Go away Cadet." Chakotay had never heard his friend this angry. He knew the anger was at himself for giving into his passion in a moment of weakness.

"I can't do that. You are my friend and I don't give up on my friends."

"There is nothing you can do here. I have disgraced my house."

"You made a mistake, that's all you did, and if anyone from your house says different, tell them to talk to me and I'll set them straight." K'Kerth finally looked up at this with a look of disbelief. "I've been taking boxing lessons." Chakotay laughed.

K'Kerth started to smile and said, "Like that P'taQ Jacob."

"Exactly like him, except my mother doesn't work for Starfleet." Commander Tres was impressed with Chakotay and K'Kerth both. K'Kerth got up and sat on the bench provided for him. Chakotay sat next to him and said seriously, "What happens now? You left your family to come here against their wishes. Will they take you back?"

"I will have to see the Klingon High Council." Once again the Klingon looked up at the Indian, this time looking him in the eye. "Thank you my friend."

Chakotay patted him on the shoulder and said, "You are welcome my friend."

***

Kate walked from Astro Theory when she saw Jacob walking to his room sulking. She had heard about the fight and knew that if he had instigated it, he would get expelled. She also had a feeling that Shelly would leave with him. Seeing him walk across campus, Kate knew he would leave for good soon. She called to him and asked that he slow down just a little. When he did, she went to him and said, "What happened?"

"I believe they call it entrapment. Tock has had it out for me since I applied. They set it up so I would fail my wilderness test. Who ever heard of a wilderness test on campus in the mess hall. Remember, they are supposed to take you out of class."

Kate didn't feel like making Jacob feel better. She wanted to remind him that the wilderness test should stretch a cadet, work on a weakness or develop a strength. His test should not have even caused a problem for him. Cadets should show more honor on a bad day than Jacob shows on a good one. She dismissed all these thoughts and finally said to him, "So what happens now?"

"Tock and Tres want me to decide whether to stay here and work with that Klingon scum or both of get expelled. He doesn't belong here."

"That's beside the point, obviously someone thinks he does."

"Well, they can't make me work with him. I refuse to. I will re enroll next year, and Tock won't stop me."

Kate didn't know how to tell him what she wanted to say. He obviously wasn't thinking clearly, but she wanted him to encourage Shelly to stay. "What about Shelly? I don't know if she will stay here after you leave. She needs to be here, can you talk to her about doing that?"

"Why so she can serve in a Federation where Klingons and Vulcans get preferential treatment? No. She shouldn't have to live like a second class citizen to them."

Kate didn't even think before saying, "But that's apparently okay for you. Jacob, you got yourself kicked out of here. How difficult is it to stay away from two people who sit halfway across the room from you on a morning when you were running late for class? Justin just came back from his test where he spent a week in a desert constantly under attack with no food or water. I hope you never step foot on this campus again until you grow up. But more than that, I hope you care enough about Shelly to know that she needs to be here more than she needs to be with you." With that Kate Janeway stomped to the mess hall and grabbed a quick lunch before heading to her next class.

***

Since their wilderness challenge Chakotay and Ben became good friends. When they ate meals together, Ben could see Chakotay staring at Kate Janeway. A fact that Chakotay would not admit to, but made the Noff laugh. Ben's instincts told him that Chakotay and Janeway would have a special bond, but that it wouldn't happen for quite awhile. As a Noff, Ben felt that the fates had conspired against his friend. As a student, Ben knew that the faculty had the same conspiracy. Ben got to know Admiral Tock pretty well. The admiral took an interest in the Noff after he became involved in student government. Students from each class became a part of the Chancellor's Cabinet and gave a voice to the students. This form of government at first didn't seem logical to the Vulcan, but especially after working closely with Commander Tres, Tock understood that some cultures have a need to feel that those in charge hear them. Ben brought an insight and intellect to the government that the admiral admired in such a young man.

One day, the Vulcan asked Ben to stay after their weekly meeting. Ben found himself nervous, as far as he had known the admiral never requested these one on one meetings. Commander Tres' style was far more personable so Ben would have expected this type of meeting from the Commander instead of the admiral. After everyone left, Admiral Tock invited Ben to sit down more comfortably and offered him a drink. "I will get straight to the point. While my esteemed colleague is naturally better at reading emotions, I don't think I am wrong in believing you are quite nervous." Ben slowly shook his head, a little embarrassed to admit that the admiral was correct. "There is no need to be. I assure you that this is an informal meeting. I know that you have become good friends with Cadet Chakotay. On the first day of orientation, I saw you look at him and Cadet Janeway as if you knew something about their future. I wondered if that was a true assessment."

Ben didn't know what to say. He hadn't expected to have this conversation with the Vulcan. He decided to answer as honestly as he could. "I did have a feeling when I saw the two of them. The feeling could mean a lot of different things. They will be a big part of each other's future, but I don't know what kind of future that is."

"I see. The faculty believes that you, and Cadets Janeway and Chakotay have very bright futures ahead of you. You and Chakotay will soon become roommates, so I am asking you to discourage interaction between those two. I am told that you don't have to be Noff to know what kind of future they have, and we don't want their future to impede their Academy training. Can we count on you to help us keep their minds on their work?"

The Noff shook his head and smiled. "This year will be the hardest to do that. In next several they will rarely see each other. You have my word Admiral."

***

Commander Tres contacted Chakotay a few weeks before the semester break. He knew that next semester Chakotay would spend a lot of time flying around Earth. He got accepted into an advanced flying program that few first years got into, but Chakotay convinced the faculty that he could handle the challenge. The commander still hoped that Chakotay would give up the idea of piloting and choose a social science as his specialty. He knew people and he knew that Chakotay would make a better social scientist than he would a pilot. He had also seen Chakotay fly and worried for the cadet's safety. Chakotay arrived right on time and the commander got right to the point.

"As you may know the Cardassians have applied to become trade partners with the Federation. There is a shortage of sociologists willing to investigate their culture. Admiral Janeway and Captain Paris have asked the Academy to find a cadet to spend the summer on Cardassia to learn about their culture and make a recommendation about whether we should have any dealings with them. I can't promise that you would get this position, but I think that you would do a good job with it and I would like to write a recommendation for you to do it."

Commnder Trees had talked to Chakotay about pursueing a socal science a few times. Chakotay had enrolled in an anthropology class and heard about this experience. He had thought about applying, but not seriously enough to actually do anything about it. He quickly decided this conversation with the commander was the push he needed. "How long do I have to decide?"

"The application deadline is three weeks after the new semester starts."

Chakotay promised to consider it. He then sat through another lecture from the commander about getting too serious about a girl. He didn't understand the big deal since he was not seriously pursuing anyone, but he kept getting short lectures from Ben and others. He reminded the commander that in the coming semester he will fly in the Baja Peninsula and won't have time for any relationships. The Commander didn't seem convinced, but he let the young man go anyway.

***

Kate Janeway started to get concerned when she realized it was December and she hadn't gotten sent on a wilderness challenge yet. She had heard horror stories about some of the challenges, and she knew all too well that many ended with the expulsion of several students. Shelly was a casualty of her challenge. Kate had talked Shelly into staying at the Academy after Jacob decided to leave. Shelly said good-bye to Jacob and then was taken immediately to a desert where her instructions told her to set camp overnight by herself. She couldn't get the tent up and finally yelled out "I give up". She got an immediate beam back to her room where she packed her things and met a transport to take her home.

Kate knew that most of the time these wilderness challenges addressed the things that a Cadet fears. The most successful challenge she heard about was the one the Noff and the Indian went on. Later she learned that they both lost a good friend and the loss of that friend became their real challenge.

Kate went to Admiral Tock's office, hoping to find out that she had already passed a challenge without knowing it. On her way, she met groundskeeper Busby. He handed her some flowers and asked where she was going. She told him and he advised her to be careful when asking for the wilderness challenge. "Usually the later the challenge is in the semester, the harder it is on the cadet."

"Then I should want to get this over with as soon as possible, shouldn't I?"

"They know the right timing and they know who belongs and who doesn't. You my dear, I am willing to bet belongs. If you didn't, it would be to your advantage to seek out the challenge, but if you do, know that they will not forget you."

Kate appreciated the advice, but she had a need to make things happen, so she went to the Chancellor's office. Admiral Tock listened to her and said that the faculty hadn't forgotten her, but had problems finding a right challenge for her. They thought they found one, so she should expect her challenge within 48 hours. The next day she received a call asking her to come to one of the holodecks. When she did, she found herself on a ship's bridge. Her projected outfit told her that she was captain. She sat in the captain's chair and next to her sat Justin. She said to her Ops Officer, "Report"

The officer told her that they were outnumbered 4 to 1 against a powerful alien race. Justin suggested she separate the ship into it's two parts and send him on a shuttle to distract the enemy. Her tactical officer told him that Justin suggested a suicide mission. The only shuttle they have does not have any firepower. Kate asked for other options. No one had any. She looked at Justin again and noticed a wedding band on his finger. She looked at her own hand and saw a matching ring. She muttered to herself, "I have to decide whether or not to kill my husband?"

"Captain," Justin said, "we need a decision." As if on cue, the bridge shook and the tactical officer said that shields were holding at 50%. The ops officer started calling off hull breaches. Justin kept saying that her hesitation put her whole crew at risk. Finally, she gave the order for the helmsman to pilot a shuttle, Justin would take the tactical officer to the weapons bridge and she would command this part. At the end of the battle, the majority of the crew had survived, but Justin and his crew didn't. The simulation continued forcing her to look at the service records of the fallen crew. She also had to talk to the spouses of the fallen crewmen and finally conduct a memorial service.

When she finished the simulation, Admiral Tock talked to her. "Ultimately you did make the right choices as a captain. You put the welfare of your crew before your personal feelings. However, you took a lot of time making that decision."

"It took a little while for me to acclimate myself to the situation."

"Indeed, and you held up pretty well throughout. What I need to know is how you felt about making the decision and how you came to it. Your first officer recommended that he take the shuttle, but you chose to send your helmsman instead. Why did you choose that way?"

"I had to assume that my helmsman would have the better chance of surviving in a shuttle than my first officer. I needed my first officer in a command position."

"We noticed that your hesitation came when you realized that you were married to your first officer. How did that affect your decision?"

"It first came as a shock to me. I guess I realized in that instant the reason there are rules about a captain being involved with a first officer. I stand behind my decision to have my helmsman pilot the shuttle, but in the moment I knew that I was married to my first officer, I did want to do whatever was necessary to keep him safe."

"Thank you for your candor. I apologize that Commander Tres is not here to question you more, but I think he would agree that you have successfully passed your wilderness test. Congratulations Cadet Janeway."

***

About halfway through the semester, Ben moved into Chakotay's room since Nebya dropped out after his wilderness challenge. During the latter half of the semester, Ben met a girl named Chilla. In a conversation with Chakotay, Ben said that he looked forward to their impending romance. Chakotay reminded him that Commander Tres advised Chakotay not to get involved with someone because it could affect his academics. Ben said, "He gave you that advice because your future with that particular person is much further in the future than mine with Chilla."

"Me and Kate Janeway. I just don't see it. Why don't you use some of your Noff foresight to tell me how that happens."

"I've told you before, its "

"Just a feeling you have about what the future holds. What good is knowing the future if you don't have any particulars?"

"For one thing, it helps me with girls." Ben picked up his jacket and began to walk out of the room.

Chakotay laughed and yelled after him, "Someday you gotta tell me how."

*** Chakotay didn't feel like he could go back to Dorvan for the semester break, so he went to Noff with Ben. Chakotay recognized their traditions as similar to the Christian religion on Earth. After they celebrated the birth of their Messiah by reading the story, the Noff people gave their predictions for the coming year. Ben said that he believed he and Chilla would get closer. He also said that he believed Chakotay had a bright future ahead of him, though he would have to get through some really dark times. Several of the Noff made similar predictions. Chakotay said that he saw a future where he would serve as first officer on a ship captained by Ben. Ben appreciated the compliment, but knew it wouldn't happen.

Chakotay appreciated the time he spent with Ben's family. He used some of the time to observe a "typical" Noff family. He wasn't surprised to find that he enjoyed making the observations. Besides that he felt truly welcomed by their family and couldn't have imagined having a better time anywhere. At the end of the break, he almost didn't want to leave, but he knew that he had a lot to look forward to in the new term.

***

Temporal Mechanics. The whole idea just gave Kate Janeway a headache. The book sat in front of her and she tried once again to read the chapter. She just didn't get it. The past is the future, the future is the past, how can something that hasn't happened yet throw off something that happened years ago? If a person from the future goes into the past and kills herself and an enemy, will she, the enemy or events that happened actually have happened? Kate just didn't care.

What she did care about was that Justin planned to "stop by" tonight. When Kate told Shelly about his visit on the communicator, Shelly said she noticed that Kate has mentioned Justin "stopping by" a lot recently. After her first wilderness challenge, Justin and Kate talked and they broke up. She didn't think they would get serious again. She was afraid of getting involved with anyone who might ever serve with her. But, word was around the academy that they were a couple and Kate didn't mind that too much. However, she needed to finish reading this chapter because the cadet from Dorvan V is in her Temporal Mechanics class and he kept bating her into arguments. He drives her nuts because he just had a better grasp of the ideas than she does and Kate had always been the best at everything she tried.

***

"Okay so what you're saying is that no matter which way she argues there is another argument and the real answer is that no one knows?"

"That sums it up." Chakotay clasped Ben on the shoulder and they shared a laugh. Ben understood Temporal Mechanics, but knew that Chakotay didn't. Ben also knew that Chakotay wanted to impress Kate Janeway, so Ben offered to tutor him before class discussions. Chakotay then helped Ben with his homework in social science. Their first year at the Academy had nearly completed. Despite his promise to the admiral, Ben decided to help Chakotay impress Kate. He had a feeling that there was a long time before the two of them would actually get to know each other. With every faculty member at the Academy conspiring against them, he was even more sure that it would take awhile.

They knew that with the end of the first year of the Academy, they would have to declare their specialties next year and would likely be separated. Chakotay decided that he wanted to specialize in piloting with a secondary specialty in social sciences. Ben chose engineering as his specialty.

"So, do you think that she really is dating Justin?"

"Justin and Kate? Not right now, and in the long run they won't be together." Ben looked at the hopeful look on Chakotay's face and finally added with a clap on the back, "How many times do I have to tell you to be patient. It will take longer than you think, but it will be worth it for you."

***

"Now lets look at example 4. We have a captain who is faced with a ship from the future who warns that she will go several hundred years in the past and her actions there will cause the destruction of Earth several hundreds of years in the future. According to contemporary theorists, what is the best course of action?"

Kate Janeway looked down at her notes, knowing the answer was for the ship to be destroyed, but she really didn't like that answer. It seemed like with more information about how the ship got flung back in time, maybe the captain could avoid the problem all together. Once again, Commander Tres knew that there were only three people in the class that had some idea how to answer the question, and only one of them actually knew the answer. He looked at each row in the classroom. When he got to Kate, he smirked, then looked back at her adversary and said, "go ahead Cadet."

Chakotay answered, looking like the question and its complexities didn't phase him, "According to the contemporary theories, the ship should be destroyed. This way the present and future time lines will be affected, but not the past. This would give both the present and future time lines a new reality which is preferred to the planet's destruction. However, if possible, the ship in the middle time line should find a way to avoid the time anomaly altogether. This way Starfleet can keep its ship and no time lines will be affected, except the future one, which has changed several times."

"Very good, you have obviously thought that through. Cadet Janeway, why don't you tell us what you got for Example 5. You're the captain of a vessel that got lost in the Zeta Quadrant. A future version of yourself comes to you and proposes that you follow a shortcut she knows about that you aren't far from. She also says she can kill an adversarial race at the same time. If the plan succeeds, who will survive and who won't and what are the implications for the future?"

Kate recognized this question as one that she hated working on the previous day. She didn't understand why they needed to look at this stuff, the Temporal Prime Directive would make that decision for any Starfleet captain. "A lot of that question depends on whose theories you choose to believe. In all theories, the future captain will die. The present crew will survive. After that things get tricky. I personally side with Gregonhoff Principles which states that as long as the present crew followed a path that would have gotten them to their destination even if the future captain didn't come, then they made it back to Earth. This theory also explains that the enemy would be destroyed. However, the Comodian Theory would say that since the present captain altered her future, she will not deliver the message to herself later. The only way for the sacrifice to mean anything is if the present captain goes back in time at the precise moment that the future captain did and carry out her time line."

"Cadet Jenkins, what is the problem with that?"

"Time loops and the presupposition that the crew will get home in the first place."

"So is there anyway to get our good crew home?"

Chakotay, knowing that his first answer impressed Kate, jumped back into the conversation. "Prove the Gregonhoff Principle and hope to find a distant point in the future to mess with the past."

"Ah a good answer cadet. And I thought that Cadet Jenkins was the only one enjoying this class. Okay, final exam is in two weeks. Cadet Janeway, I need to see you after class, everyone else can go."

Kate took her time packing up her stuff as the rest of the class left. Once they were gone, she went up to her Betazoid professor's desk. "I guess that we need to schedule a time for my psych evaluation."

"Admiral Tock is getting worried and you haven't seen anything until you have seen a worried Vulcan." Kate appreciated the Commander's dry sense of humor and laughed along with him. Once he composed himself, he said, "I still have 10 first years to go and only two weeks. When is a good time for you?" They went through their schedules and decided on a time. They walked out of the classroom together and he asked her with a smile, "Why won't you ask me the question?"

She was surprised and a bit confused. "What question?"

The Betazoid laughed and said, "His name is Chakotay. I would discourage you from getting to know him any better. Falling in love sometimes has bad effects on promising cadets." He sensed that she wanted to say something about Justin, but decided to stop herself when she realized he made the comment intentionally. Instead, Kate laughed, thanked him and went to her next class.

***

"Is that the letter?"

"Yes it is!" Chakotay couldn't believe his luck. He had took Commander Tres' advice and applied to spend his summer with the Cardassians. Ben's home world of Noff shared a border with Cardassia, Ben knew a lot about the people and culture. He had discouraged Chakotay from getting involved with them, but Chakotay saw it as a great opportunity to make a name for himself in Starfleet.

Chakotay looked up from his letter and at the disapproving face of his roommate and best friend. "Come on, what else am going to do? I thought about going back to Dorvan, but I don't want to listen to my father lecture me about my rightful place being with my people. The only pilot training available is the one I just did. My best options just aren't available."

"You could go to Noff with me. My parents would love to have you, and instead of studying a culture of vicious murderers, you can study the fun loving culture of a people who have foresight."

"In all the time I have known you, I have never seen you actually predict something, you just a have a feeling about something to come." Chakotay looked at his roommate and smiled.

Ben returned the smile and said, "But have my feelings ever been wrong? Having foresight, even as just a feeling can help you win friends, girls and bets." The two cadets laughed and then Ben got serious again. "Chak, I have never lied to you or been wrong about anything. Please reconsider going to Cardassia and instead come to Noff and stay with my family."

Chakotay could tell that his friend was looking out for his best interest. After thinking for a few moments, he said, "I will think about that, as well as going to going to Cardassia. I don't know a lot about their culture, but is seems fascinating to me."

Ben put his head down and muttered to himself, "You don't know them like I do Chak. You just don't know them."

Meanwhile, Chakotay asked his friend, "How does this foresight help you win girls? As many times as we have that conversation I have never gotten that."

***

Kate got ready for the first year's commencement ceremony. Most cadets regarded this tradition as something for parents. Of course, the high point of the ceremony would come when they named the Enterprise Winners of the year. Each year, the Academy named two or three students who they believed would go furthest in their service. These students would then lead in their chosen fields. Besides academics, winners showed good character, ingenuity, and they had a quality that just can't be defined. As an admiral, Kate's father had already seen the list and so she knew that her name would be called.

Kate realized that none of her friends would see her stand on the podium. She knew that the odds of finishing the first year of the academy are 3 to 1. She didn't realize that her best friend would drop out to be with her boyfriend who got kicked out in the first few weeks. She remained friends with Justin, but didn't get over the fear that she had in getting involved with another Starfleet officer.

"Kathryn, come on. We need to get there early for good seats."

"Coming father."

***

"You really are going?"

"Ben, come on. My father isn't talking to me, I know how you feel about this, but it's a good opportunity. The Cardassian culture is fascinating. I need to see if I really do enjoy Anthropology as much as Tres says."

"You can still do a cultural survey of Noff. You know that Starfleet doesn't have a good understanding of my people."

Frustrated Chakotay said, "Your people are boring. I have lived with you for most of this year and I went home with you. I enjoy your culture and I can make some conclusions based on my experiences. What are you so worried about?"

"They want to destroy my planet, Chakotay. If you want to be my first officer, you have to live through this summer."

"I'll see you in the fall."

"Why don't you just wait until after the ceremony? I think you will want to be there."

"Is that another Noffian prediction?" Chakotay looked at his friend and much to his surprise found that it was. "What's going to happen there? Will I catch a glimpse of Kate? No, I need to get going. I will see you this fall." With that Chakotay picked up the last of his bags and left for his shuttle. Ben shook his head, a feeling of dread coming over him. Ben knew that he and Chakotay had said their final goodbye.

***

The first year cadets, their parents and the faculty congregated in Zephron Hall again. This auditorium served as the place for all formal functions in Starfleet, including commencements, installation of admirals, and even gala dances. Unlike the last time this group got together, this time the gigantic hall looked empty. Admiral Tock stood at the podium at the front of the stage. Behind him sat the Starfleet Academy Faculty. The admiral took out his notes for this occasion. Every year for the last 50 he has stood in this position, congratulating the first year cadets on making it this far while advising them that from here it only gets harder. Every year he re writes this speech and crafts it to have special meaning for these first years. Some of the other Vulcans on staff think that re writing the speech is illogical, but every year he sees something different in the class to say in this address.

The crowd gathered consisted first of the cadets, seated according to the emphasis they chose to study next year, and then arranged by name. Kate Janeway sat with the science group and Ben sat with the future engineers. Behind the students sat their parents. Admiral Janeway sat at the front of this group, opting to sit with the other parents instead of with the Starfleet staff. The Jenkins family sat towards the back, feeling uncomfortable in their surroundings. Ben was the first Noff at Starfleet, so they didn't know the customs as well as some parents. One reason that Chakotay didn't attend was because his parents refused to come. His father told him that they couldn't make it because he didn't believe that Chakotay belonged with these people.

The crowd welcomed Admiral Tock to the podium with a traditional hand clapping. The Admiral began his speech. "Friends, families, cadets. On behalf of Starfleet, I welcome you today. Traditionally this day is one of celebration for those gathered in this room. Each year the first year class starts with close to 10,000 members and at the end of it, the group has diminished to a third of its original size. We gather in this room for this ceremony because we want you to see how many empty seats have been left from colleagues who did not make it this far. You each know several who did not, but now you sit among those who did. We celebrate as we see our first Noff sit among you. We celebrate as we see very few number from the Dorvan colonies. We celebrate as we see several children of our own Starfleet officers, ready to carry on the proud tradition of their parents and ancestors. We celebrate as we look at all the faces we have come to know and respect. But those of us in the front half of this room know that for every celebration, there are two who did not make it. Those of us on this platform know that when your final commencement comes about half you will not be here."

"Over the last nine months we have worked on your intellect, your character, and your unique abilities. You will continue to be stretched and as you continue in this pursuit, you must be willing to reach higher than you think you can achieve. The attainment of this goal will not only mean that you will have a future in what many consider a noble group, but you will also have a character that will live up to whatever you make of it. I congratulate you on your ability to make it this far, and I hope that in the coming years you will continue to pursue the tenets of the Federation. Live long and prosper."

The crowd applauded and Admiral Tock moved from the podium. As he sat down, Commander Tres moved into the Vulcan's former position. "As the sub chancellor of Starfleet Academy, it is a great privilege to meet each of the cadets individually and then confer with the rest of the faculty to see who we think will make it this far and even farther. Your faculty spend a great amount of time trying to find ways to refine you to help mold you into the people that we believe you want to be. In each class, we find those rare cadets that we believe can overcome even our high expectations of them. Cadets who have been in this elite group have become high admirals and captains. They are the Jonathan Archers and James Kirks of Starfleet. This year, there are three people we put our confidence in. These three cadets will take leadership positions in their schools of specialty next year. Please come up to the podium, Cadets Chakotay, Janeway and Jenkins."

The crowd applauded for the three cadets. Admiral Janeway looked at his daughter with pride and though he would never admit it, he felt a tear roll down his face. Ben's parents hugged each other and saw him beam with pride at hearing his name called. He knew that Starfleet can give no higher honor to its cadets. This meant added responsibility the next year, but also the probability of getting choice assignments after graduation. Those who received this recognition weren't necessarily the smartest in the group, but instead all around seemed to exemplify the character of Starfleet. They had to have intelligence, but also they had character attributes that Starfleet looks for in all their officers; integrity, honesty, diplomacy, honor among others. He couldn't believe that he had made such a impact on the Starfleet brass.

"Cadet Janeway," the commander started while the cadets began walking up, "came in with a very impressive resume and test scores. A lot of standards were placed on her that seemed impossible for anyone to attain. However, Kate has managed to far surpass everything that we threw at her. The daughter of an Admiral, we always knew that Kate would do well at the academy, but besides having the knowledge to go far in her chosen area of emphasis which is science, she has also shown remarkable character under pressure."

Commander Tres stopped for a second and looked around. "Apparently Cadet Chakotay had to leave a little early. This goes to show his eagerness. Throughout the year, everything that this cadet has done has not only been done with excellence, but with a spirit that few people possess. With a passive spirit and a wisdom that surpasses his years, the faculty saw him on several occasions talk a fellow cadet prone to violence out of fighting. He has even made the academy fun for those who consider him a friend, and that includes many people. He has a loyalty that will serve him and Starfleet well for the next 90 years or more. Right now his curiosity and desire for real world knowledge has lead him to Cardassia to learn about a new culture. We look forward to having him back as a class leader next year."

"I find it a special privilege to call up Cadet Benwholijen Jenkins, or Ben for short. He is our first cadet from the planet Noff and if the rest of his planet are anything like him, the benefit to Starfleet is immeasurable. He will become a great engineer with a natural sense about the future. This year he has served in the Chancellor's Cabinet and has taken several responsibilities that the chancellor handpicked him for. He has shown intelligence, ingenuity and kindness throughout the year and has enriched the lives of several members of this first year class."

"We are proud of each cadet sitting in this room and though we selected three to be your leaders next year, we look forward to seeing the development of each of you."

***

After the ceremony, Kate and her father found Ben, Chilla, and Ben's family and asked them to dinner. Chilla had to leave right away, so she couldn't make it, however, Ben and his family accepted the invitation. The Admiral thought that since Ben and his daughter had received such high praise from Starfleet, they should get to know each other better. Ben understood that the Admiral intended to play matchmaker, a thought that made him laugh.

At dinner, the admiral turned to Ben's father and said, "You must be proud of your son, the first recruit from your planet and in his first year, he shows an impeccable character and intelligence." He looked at Ben and Kate who sat next to each other, at his insistence, and said, "Anyone would be proud to have him in their family."

Horrified, Kate turned to her father and said, "Father!" While Ben bit his lip and tried to stifle a laugh.

Once he was able to control himself, Ben said, "I just wish that Chakotay were here. I believe that he has a brighter future ahead of him than I do."

The admiral was intrigued. He hadn't met a Noff, though his office worked with their people when they joined the Federation of Planets. He knew of their sense about the future, but didn't know how clear that knowledge was and wondered, as did a lot of people, about how it would affect the temporal prime directive. Admiral Janeway thought about what the young Noff said as he asked, "Is that something your intuition tells you?"

The Noff family didn't think anything of their son's prophecy. Ben's father answered the question, "The Noff people make comments like that all the time. We have learned over the years not to scrutinize what comments about the future mean. It could mean that while my son will be a captain, Chakotay will go down in history books as making first contact with a powerful ally."

Looking at the students again, the Admiral asked Ben, "So what do you know about the futures of the Enterprise Award recipients?"

"I only know this, one of us will serve as another's first officer. I don't know anything about the future of the third and I don't know the identities of the captain and first officer."

Ben's mother said, "But Chakotay has said many times that he wants to serve as first officer on a ship that Ben captains." The Noff family smiled with pride again.

Kate turned to Ben and said, "Tell me about Chakotay. Aren't the two of you best friends?"

"You are going to know him very well. Very well indeed. Once you start to see him as an ally instead of an adversary you will know him better than I do. But to answer your question, he is a man of considerable character. His intelligence is a bit understated at times, but he makes up for it with courage, loyalty, and honor."

"He sounds charming," said the Admiral, still hoping that if his daughter would take up with anyone it would be the Noff that didn't skip the final ceremony like so many hooligans in the Academy did. "So where is this great man of honor?"

Ben looked down, unable to hide his disappointment. "He went to the Cardassian home world, hoping to do a study on their culture this summer which he intends to bring back to Starfleet before the new semester begins." The Janeways knew of the history between the Noff and the Cardassians so they didn't follow up that line of questioning.

Overall, dinner was fun for everyone, even though Kate found some of her father's comments about her future with Ben a little uncomfortable. After dinner, the two families parted ways after the two cadets said they looked forward to seeing each other in the fall. Kate intended to stay on campus and study up close various alien metabolisms. Ben planned to go home and tell his people about his experiences. The government was interested in the knowledge he gained.

***

At the same time, Chakotay found himself on a vessel headed for Cardassia. The Cardassians were eager to meet anyone from the Federation, even a first year cadet, in hopes that they could join that alliance. The vessel he rode on only had a pilot who didn't want to talk or to show Chakotay anything about the ship. He found himself in what he could only assume was a cargo hold of some sort. What little he got his pilot to say told him that most vessels are out at war and so he should make himself as comfortable as possible. Looking around, he didn't see how that would happen. The one chair that was bolted to the body of the vessel reminded him of an ancient Earth Electric chair. He tried sitting in it, but found it rigid and just very uncomfortable. He decided to take out some of his belongings and made a makeshift bed so that he could take a nap on the way. The ride was rough, so he didn't get much sleep. However, when they landed, his curiosity about this people allowed him to seem like he got a full night sleep. He put his stuff together and was told to get out before his pilot had to leave. As he looked around, he didn't see anyone and the nearest buildings looked like a day's walk at best. Since it was night, he set up a rudimentary shelter and pretended he was on a wilderness hike.

As he settled in, he ran across his medicine pack. He held it in his hand, not sure if he really wanted to seek his animal guide. In the end, he decided to seek his guide. Somehow he thought it might bring him a little comfort. "Aychoochemora, though far from the land of my grandfathers..."

When he arrived, he almost didn't recognize where he was. His home world looked like it was attacked, destroyed in some way. He walked around, looking for his guide. He saw her in some brush that didn't give her much cover, but enough. He ran to her and started petting her when he realized she was trembling. "What is wrong? What happened here?"

"Do not fear, it hasn't happened yet. You are not in the right place. You must go home."

"But I have a great opportunity here. I can prove my value to the Federation in a way that my people cannot understand." He looked at the eyes of his guide. For the first time ever, he saw fear and anguish. "If these people are as vicious as they appear, then I may be able to stop them or at least warn the Federation about dealing with them. The Federation can stop them."

"Your destiny is not to be a hero in this war. You need to be home. You still have a lot to learn." The snake disappeared, leaving Chakotay alone. He yelled for his guide, but was not able to contact her anymore. Finally, he ended the vision, more determined than ever to study this culture and prove his worth to Starfleet.

***

Kate heard the news before she got out her Klingon cadaver. She thought about that dinner with Ben after the ceremony. She was sad about the loss. As far as she knew, this was the first time an Enterprise Award winner died before graduating. She couldn't help but think about Chakotay. She had never met him, but she knew that he and Ben were close. She also knew that he spent the summer with the very people who attacked his best friend's home world. Because of Ben's words about their future, Kate had looked forward to meeting Chakotay. Now she wasn't so sure.

***

Chakotay flew his shuttle to Starfleet headquarters and sat for several minutes trying to collect himself. The words that he ignored from Ben went through his mind, "you don't know them Chakotay, you just don't know them." When Ben said it last spring, three months ago, he didn't understand, but he had a feeling that he should listen better than he did. Instead, he dug in his heels and decided to learn about the Cardassians. Now here he sat, not sure how he would ever get the horrible images out of his mind. They took him on the ship, to give him a sample of their great firepower. Even if the planet weren't a peaceful one, the mass destruction, the genocide that he saw would give him nightmares for the next several years. Finally he swallowed hard and he picked up his report. He couldn't fight the Cardassians with just one passenger shuttle, but in his hand, his report, that would insure that the Federation never negotiated with that species.

He walked into the lobby of Admiral Janeway's office, and introduced himself to the secretary. He explained that he had an appointment with Captain Paris. He sat down, smiling at the secretary. The Admiral came out of his office and immediately Chakotay jumped up and saluted. The Admiral said, "At ease" and looked the cadet over hard. If Chakotay hadn't witnessed the destruction of an entire race recently, the admiral would have intimidated him with this stare. However, Chakotay found himself numb, physically, mentally and emotionally. The admiral continued to look him over in silence as Chakotay continued to stand with his hands behind his back, careful to remember every last bit of protocol. "What is you name Cadet?"

"Chakotay sir."

The admiral continued to look at the young man in front of him. "State you business."

"Sir, I am here to speak with Captain Paris regarding my experiences with the Cardassians."

The Admiral still looked at the cadet waiting for him to flinch or break protocol in some way. He knew that he intimidated cadets, ensigns and even some lieutenants, and he got pleasure out of doing so. He wondered how long before this man showed his fear. As he waited, he remembered the name and the assignment. "Chakotay. That's right, you volunteered to write a first report on the Cardassian race. We are seriously considering them as new members of the Federation. We will look at your report with great interest."

As the admiral began to walk out of the waiting area, his daughter, Kate walked in. She told her father that her mother wanted to make sure he had his lunch. The admiral turned and introduced Chakotay to his daughter. Immediately Kate recognized the name and informed him that they each received the Academy's coveted Enterprise award, along with Ben. Distracted, Chakotay tried to smile and stuttered out, "Congratulations" and then sat back down in his seat. Not long after that Captain Paris and his pregnant wife walked in. The secretary introduced him to Chakotay and he signaled for the cadet to go into his office.

The captain sat down behind his desk and moved his hand to get the report. He began flipping through it as he said, "As you may have noticed, my wife and I are expecting a child in less than two months. We look forward to welcoming our son, Thomas Eugene into the world. We have a doctor's appointment in a half hour, so I need to make this brief. What will I see in your report Cadet?"

"Sir, after spending approximately three months with the Cardassians, I can confidently say that there has never been a more cruel, destructive race in the history of the Federation. Their society counters everything that Starfleet stands for. Any relations with them should be completed as quickly as possible and our guard should be up against them at all times."

"Very interesting cadet. Of course, the same types of words were used to describe the Klingons. We will continue to look into their society. Your report appears to be complete and at first glance looks very impressive. I will look at it more closely later. Thank you for stopping by and good luck this year at the Academy. Dismissed."

Again, Chakotay made sure he followed protocol until he got out to his shuttle. When he got in, he punched the console with his fist in frustration. Finally he set in a course for the Academy.

***

He left the shuttle to check in before going to his dorm room. Groundskeeper Boothby met him. "Ah, our missing Enterprise winner has returned," he said with a wide smile. He extended his hand and when Chakotay shook it, he pulled the cadet into a bear hug. Never having talked to this man before, Chakotay was a little uncomfortable, but didn't say anything. "So, word is you had quite the summer. Following around a relatively new race to the Federation, not bad for a person not even in their second year. But we all knew you'd go far young man. Your faculty expect a lot from you. Remember that." The groundskeeper gave Chakotay another reassuring squeeze before letting him go.

Boothby's reputation preceded him. Several cadets through the years have ended up pouring out their hearts to the good-natured groundskeeper who always seemed to know everything that happened. He gave good advice and was tough when necessary. He could cheer up a person with just a look. Leaving Boothby, Chakotay wasn't happy, but he at least felt a little better.

Chakotay went to the quad and stood in line to check in. At his first station, he was told to go straight to Commander Tres' office. When he arrived, the Betazoid was waiting for him. "I thought Betazoids could only read a person's mood, not read their mind."

"They told me you were on your way." In the past the commander could tell a joke and break the tension in any situation. He was the perfect compliment to the Vulcan Chancellor. However, the commander didn't seem interested in making things light today. Chakotay didn't mind, he didn't feel like laughing anyway. "I'll get right to the point. The official word is an unknown alien attacked the Noff when they slept and there were only a handful of casualties. I know that you know better. Starfleet asked me to tell you that while they investigate this incident all deals with the Cardassians are on hold. I get the feeling they know more than they are saying." He stopped and looked at Chakotay, who sat trying not to cry. Concerned, the counselor asked, "What did you see?"

Chakotay could see the compassion in the eyes of the sub chancellor. For the first time since leaving to meet his transport to Cardassia, Chakotay felt safe and he felt like he could cry. "I saw it all sir. I sat on the lead ship as they ambushed the Noff in their sleep. They did it only because they could. Because the Noff were weak."

The commander reclined in his chair and folded his hands so that only his indexed fingers stood up and were placed against his lips. "You wrote this in a report?"

"Yes sir. I handed it to Captain Paris today just before he and his wife went to see the doctor." Chakotay kept his eyes on the floor.

"Ah, yes, the captain and his wife are anxious for the delivery of their first son. I believe they intend to name him Thomas Eugene. The captain already has high expectations for the boy."

Chakotay didn't pay any attention to what the sub chancellor said, his mind still reeling from the images of the destruction of the Noff people. After sitting in silence for several minutes, he looked up and said, "You delivered the message from Starfleet Command. Did you also call me in here to talk about Ben?"

The older man swallowed hard and shook his head yes. He then handed Chakotay a PADD. "A couple days before the attack, Ben wrote this. He asked me to give you this message if he didn't make it back. His death was confirmed two days ago."

Chakotay took the PADD and Commander Tres left his office.

"Chakotay,

I know what you're thinking, what good does it do to have foresight, when so often it seems like little more than a feeling? For almost a whole academic year I defended my gift, but now I guess I can say you have a point.

"Chak, I know that you are going through something hard as you read this, but I want you to know that down the road, you will finally find peace. You have a hard road to go, but ultimately you will be happy.

"Tell Kate hi for me, but don't do it until you both serve on the same ship. Both of you need to study. I told her father that one of the three Enterprise recipients would serve as first officer on another recipients ship. I still believe that. I just wish I was getting the first officer.

Ben

PS My gift doesn't really help me get girls, but it does helps me know which ones to go after."

After giving Chakotay a suitable period of time and feeling that he was done, Commander Tres walked back into his office. He leaned against a wall and waited for Chakotay to say what he needed to. "It was an ambush. No one could have survived. A whole people destroyed for no reason other than to show off. If I would have gone home with Ben "

"Stop. If you would have gone home with Ben, someone else would have sat in the same ship and Starfleet would have lost two officers, not just one. You weren't the only cadet that applied for that mission you know."

Chakotay shook his head and walked away.

***

Kate went back to her quarters finding her new insignia which showed her rank as a second year cadet. She placed it on her collar and ran her fingers over it, just as she had done to Justin's ensign pip before he left on his mission a few months ago. She saw that she had a meeting with all the other class and specialty leaders in an hour. She had hoped that since Admiral Tock had to replace the second year engineer leader, and because of the hard time Chakotay obviously had with everything that happened, they would postpone the meeting.

Kate walked over to her dresser and picked up the picture of Justin that she kept. She had convinced herself that because she missed him so much, they must be destined to be together. At the same time, she kept thinking about Chakotay, a person she had barely met. A cadet who had intrigued her without ever saying a word to her. She felt bad for him, but she believed her feelings were more than just that.

***

Chakotay went into his room and found his new rank insignia as well as the box that held Ben's. His communicator beeped and when he answered it, he saw Admiral Tock. "Cadet, I know that this is a difficult time for you. However, your attendance is required at the Class and Specialty meeting in an hour."

Chakotay could no longer hold his anger. "What happens if I do not attend?"

"Cadet, I can understand you feelings, but I must request that you put them aside so you can get the most out of your Starfleet training."

"YOU understand my feelings. What the hell does a Vulcan know about feelings?" He looked at the still stoic face of the Vulcan, dropped his eyes and said, "I'll be there."

***

Kate Janeway sat with the Science faculty and the other two class and specialty leaders. She didn't see Chakotay come in and find a seat by himself, but close enough to the pilots that he was with them. Chakotay looked around the half filled lecture hall and for a moment realized he felt at peace when he found Kate. He thought about going to apologize to her, but stopped when Admiral Tock said, "For those students joining us for the first time, the faculty consider this meeting to be the official kickoff to the new Academy year..."

***

Captain Kathryn Janeway walked proudly through Starfleet headquarter to get her orders from Admiral Namimby. The Admiral gave her the specs on the Starship Voyager and told her to assemble a crew and head for the Badlands to infiltrate a Maquis vessel, The Liberty. She looked forward to this mission. Besides having the best ship in the fleet, she would rescue her chief security officer. The Admiral handed her intelligence reports on the Maquis crew she would infiltrate. Before leaving his office, she looked at the crew of the Liberty. The name of the captain jumped out at her. Chakotay. She didn't know why his name seemed familiar, but she was sure she would find out. After getting all the information she could about her mission, Captain Janeway thanked the admiral and left.

It was a proud day and she couldn't wait to tell her fiancÈ Mark. He called and said he would be late getting home, so she took the opportunity to do some more research into the rebel force. She started by researching the captain. She immediately noticed his handsome face and that he used to work for Starfleet. In fact he was an officer. Finally she accessed his Academy records and remembered him. "So I get to go against one of the best and brightest." She got a devious smile on her face and said, "What did Ben from Noff say? One of us will serve as another's first officer? We didn't get to know the Noff well enough to know how accurate they were." Kathryn dismissed the idea as Mark came home carrying flowers, ready to celebrate her new commission. She told him that in only three weeks she would leave on a three week mission to capture a man that at one time was destined to be her first officer. The couple laughed about a mission that Mark said would "completely change your life."