The senior staff had assembled in the ready room and listened carefully to Naomi's story. It had been decided before hand that any questions were to be asked by Chakotay or Tuvok. It was clear that this was not accidental, this Valime knew who he was after and apparently what; now they would have to wait to hear from him. From Naomi's description, this was not a race they had encountered before, yet he knew of the Captain and of their technology. When Naomi had told them all she could, Chakotay dismissed her and she and Sam headed back to sickbay to check on Neelix with the solemn promise that she would be updated later. The staff began to fill Chakotay in on progress with their plan to reinforce the delta flyer and a rescue vehicle.
"Bridge to Commander Chakotay." A voice interrupted the meeting.
"Chakotay here."
"Commander we are being hailed."
"Put it on screen --in here, Ensign." Chakotay took a breath. It was show time.
The view screen lit up, a greenish human looking man stood before it. The entire senior staff looked him over trying to size him up, trying to estimate their chances. Chakotay stood before the screen, eye to eye with this 'enemy'.
"I am Commander Chakotay of the Federation Starship Voyager---And you are?" He steadied himself-it would never do to show weakness; Not with Kathryn at stake.
"Commander, my name is Valime, of the planet Kamar." He seemed to smile. "You --Voyagers certainly do make a point of being polite."
"Yes and now that we have, what do you want from us?" Chakotay searched the screen for signs of Kathryn, but found none. Their transmission, like his own showed only what they intended to show.
"My needs are simple and I am a direct man. I want your transport technology." He looked innocent as if he were asking for a glass of water instead of highly sophisticated technology, which Chakotay was sure he already knew they couldn't give him.
"I am sorry Mr. Valime, but according to our laws---we may not give you such technology." Chakotay tried to remain calm and patient. *Where is Kathryn?*
"Yes, yes--I know --Prime directive--isn't it?---Yes, your lovely Captain explained." As he said this he moved slightly and the picture widened. "As I'm sure the child told you---Kathryn is my---guest."
Kathryn appeared to be seated in a chair, hands behind her back. Closer inspection showed her ankles tied to the legs of the chair, her comm. badge missing, her hair mussed up and a small mark on the cheek, which honestly could be just a smudge. She looked directly at him and Chakotay felt his stomach tighten. The pale green dress she had worn on leave was rumpled, she appeared tired but unhurt---at least for now.
"Captain." It was all Chakotay could manage as he stared at her image on the screen.
"Commander, how are Neelix and Naomi?" Her eyes never left his.
"Very good, Captain--and you?" He swallowed.
"I'm fine, Commander. You Know.."
"Yes, Captain, I understand." *Damn the prime directive*
Their conversation was cut short when Valime stepped in front of Kathryn. "Very touching." He was laughing--a maniacal sound. "Now Commander, let us discuss this device of yours."
"Both the Captain and I have explained to you that what you ask is impossible, perhaps we could offer you something else?" Chakotay worked to keep his voice flat and emotionless.
"Perhaps I have not made myself clear. I will have that device and until I do, the fair Kathryn will remain my---Guest." He walked to the side of the chair. "She is very beautiful--or had you not noticed?" As he said this he ran his fingers through her hair and Chakotay's stomach turned.
"Valime, we have many interesting devices on our ship which we could possible..."
"Commander, I have expressed what I want-. I will take NOTHING less." He grabbed Kathryn's hair and yanked her face toward him, planting a rough kiss on her lips. As he broke the kiss and looked into her eyes; she spit in his face and out of reflex he slapped her. He smiled as he released her hair and turned back to the viewer. Chakotay could see her lip swell and a trickle of blood where it split. "No mind---I rather enjoy a woman with spirit." As if to emphasize his point, he reached his hand inside the vee of the green dress and cupped her breast. Kathryn's eyes never left Chakotay's. He wanted to vomit---he wanted to forget the prime directive--he wanted Kathryn back---he understood her message-he would follow her orders--even now. He saw the strength and determination in her eyes, he would be strong; he had to be. "Commander, I will give you time to consider my offer." He glanced down at Kathryn, never moving his hand. "Please do not take too long. We are not as fortunate as you, only the men of out race serve on out ships and I have fifty such men--who haven't seen a woman -especially such a lovely woman --in a very long time. She IS a very desirable woman, I will not be able to keep her to myself for very long."
The transmission ended before Chakotay could answer. The silence in the conference room was deafening, no one wanted to be first to break it. No one dared be the first to speculate, the first to move, all eyes were riveted to the now empty screen. Chakotay took several deep breaths in and effort to calm himself as he tore his eyes away from the blank screen and surveyed the room. The senior staff quietly looked to the Commander.
"Harry, scan the area around that transmission - see if you can fix their position. "B'Elanna how are the modifications to the flyer?" Chakotay fired questions and orders to his senior staff. "Tuvok have you and Seven determined the force of this thing - can we get under it?"
"It appears to be an upper atmosphere disturbance. According to our calculations there is sufficient room beneath it for the flyer to maneuver." Tuvok replied seemly unruffled.
"The shields have been reinforced; he has plenty of firepower ---but he'll need to drop the shields to beam her aboard." B'Elanna reported.
"First we need to find her." It was a flat statement by the Security chief and it touched a raw nerve with the Commander.
"Harry, any luck with that scan?" Chakotay yelled.
"Got it down to about ten square kilometer, Commander." Harry still punched the controls. "Can't get any better--they are blocking again."
"Once I'm under - I can scan for her---the flyer is quick-- We can get in and out." Tom spoke with confidence.
"Commander, we are not sure of their ability to defend their position. We have yet to locate the ship they must have come in on or their headquarters. "We need to secure more information before we send Mr. Paris into a trap." Tuvok gave Chakotay a level stare "We could be putting the Captain in more danger as well."
"With the interference in place we are not likely to get a better look at their headquarters or their power. We have not detected their ship, so it is either on the ground or left and will return at a later time to pick them up." Commander Chakotay's voice was strained but level. "Valime is not going to be talked out of what he wants and we can't give him what he's asking for. Is that a logical assessment of our situation at this point -Mr. Tuvok?" Chakotay seemed to dare Tuvok to disagree.
"Yes, Commander."
“Good, then I suggest we make plans to launch a rescue operation, and quickly. We need a diversion--maybe two small security teams in locations different from where Tom will be going in. Seven, map it out carefully---we don't want anyone under the disturbance except Tom and the crew of the flyer. We must be able to beam them back quickly. Tuvok, I want you to maintain a transporter lock on your teams at all times. We need to send them in ahead of the flyer - hopefully they can distract at least some of the troops. Harry, I need you to keep a sweep of the area going we need to know immediately if we get any company. B'Elanna, I think you and I should be with Tom; if we can't beam her up--we may have to go in on foot and bring her out."
"Commander, I believe it would be logical for you to remain here..."
Tuvok was cut off when Chakotay spun toward him, fire in his eyes, and slammed his fist into the table with such force that the padds piled there scattered across the room. "DAMN IT TUVOK ----This isn't about logic---this is about KATHRYN----and I am going get her back." Chakotay locked eyes with Tuvok, who never flinched.
"If this Valime, contacts us he will expect to negotiate with you, Commander. If you are not available he may become suspicious." Tuvok continued as if Chakotay had not interrupted. "It is also advisable to have you here in command---We could sent Ensign Parker or I, myself could go it that would be more agreeable."
Chakotay had regained his composure, he knew what Tuvok was saying made sense, but he still wanted to go and bring Kathryn back himself. He also realized everyone in the room had reacted to his outburst-even though they were trying to hide it. This was not good--he had to maintain control. "I see your point, Mr. Tuvok. Yes, I think it advisable for you to go in my place. B'Elanna, Tom prepare the flyer for take off, Tuvok put together the security teams, Seven be sure we know the extent of that field, Harry, maintain the scans. We will plan to set down the teams in fifteen minutes. Dismissed." The senior officers began to file out to the room.
"Tuvok."
"Yes, Commander?" He turned to Chakotay and waited for the other to leave the room.
"Tuvok, I'm sorry---I never should have reacted like that." Chakotay said evenly.
"Commander, no apology is necessary---even though I do not express them, I do understand your emotions." Tuvok spoke softly looking directly into Chakotay's eyes. "Although our relationships are different, I too am her friend--and I too want Kathryn back." They looked at each other silently and then Tuvok turned to go. "I will prepare the security teams."
Chakotay took a minute to compose himself. He couldn't let that happen again; any loss of control could further endanger Kathryn. As he thought about what Tuvok had said it registered that the Vulcan had called her Kathryn. He was sure it was meant to convey his deep feelings and reassure Chakotay that she would be in very caring and capable hands. He knew that already--maybe he needed to be reminded.
He stepped out on the bridge. "Report."
"Nothing new on the scans, Commander. No ships--no change in the disturbance." Ensign Kim reported.
"Security teams ready to beam down--locations as indicated on screen, as mapped by Seven. They are instructed to discretely draw attention to themselves." Tuvok nodded toward the Commander. "I will join Torres and Paris once we have the teams established on the planet."
"Bridge to Paris." Chakotay signaled.
"Paris here, Commander."
"Status on the flyer -Mr. Paris?"
"All set here--waiting for Tuvok and clearance to launch."
"Understood, Mr. Paris--Mr. Tuvok will be down as soon as the security teams are established."
“Acknowledged---Paris out."
"OK. Let's do it." The Commander gave Tuvok the go ahead to start the security operation.
The security teams beamed down on opposite sides of the disturbance. Seven was at the security station on the bridge to monitor their progress and keep transporter locks ready. Tuvok joined Torres and Paris and launched the delta flyer. Communication channels were kept open to both teams as well as the delta flyer. Harry continued to monitor communications and sweep the area for signs of approaching vessels. It was 17:30, just under 48 hours since the Captain failed to return and 6 hours since Naomi and Neelix had returned without her. Six hours that Kathryn had been in the hands of the Kamarians. Six hours too long. It was just getting dark on the surface both teams were down and awaiting contact. They didn't have to wait long.
"Parker to Voyager."
"Voyager here, go ahead Parker." The Commander could hear fighting in the background.
"Commander. We have engaged the Kamarians---about fifteen here--Simon reported ten on his side-will maintain."
"Acknowledged
Parker, keep in touch.---Voyager out." Chakotay wasted no
time.
"Mr. Kim hail the flyer."
"Aye, Commander --on screen."
"Tuvok, Parker and Simon report they have engaged about half the Kamarian force. That could the best we get. Have Tom take her in." Chakotay ordered the delta flyer to commence her mission.
“Aye, Commander. We should be under the disturbance in approximately fifteen minutes." Tuvok signaled Paris to enter the atmosphere.
"Hey, Commander---be home for dinner---keep it hot." Tom quipped as he readied the flyer for entry.
"Acknowledged, Paris will do--good hunting--Voyager out." Chakotay hoped Tom was right. He knew that would be their last communication, until they headed home, the disturbance would prevent further contact. If anyone could pull off a tricky flying stunt like this it would be Paris. They don't make pilots better then him. It was going to be a long wait.
"Parker to Voyager. He sounded desperate.
"Voyager."
"Ensign Rohde is down; lock on to his comm.badge and beam directly to sickbay."
"Acknowledged." He nodded to Seven, but knew she had already engaged. "Parker, how's it going?"
"Holding our own--be in touch--Parker out."
"Bridge to sick bay."
"Doctor here."
"Give us a report on Ensign Rohde as soon as you have it."
"Acknowledged, Commander---out"
The flyer entered the atmosphere and ducked under the disturbance. The plan had been to fly at the highest altitude possible in and effort to remain undetected and to allow for the widest possible scan. After a few rough minutes, and some great flying on Tom's part, Tuvok was able to determine the proper elevation.
"B'E, anything on the scans?" Tom was looking for some direction.
"Picking up some life signs--none human--heading 0025."
"Got it; let's take a closer look." Tom changed heading.
"Mr. Paris, circle around that position; I think I found her." Tom thought he heard actual excitement in Tuvok's voice.
"Tuvok, check this out--there she is! Tom heading 0029---easy don't get us caught." Tom knew he heard excitement in her voice.
"I see Lieutenant. I can't get a lock on her." Tuvok answered.
"Tom, get closer. Tuvok anything?" B'Elanna was anxious.
"Too much interference---can't get a lock on her." Tuvok's voice was flat again. "Mr. Paris, take us around behind them. Torres and I may have to go in and bring her out."
"I'll
mark the coordinates." B'Elanna worked as Tom circled around.
"OK Tom, got it ---take us up as far out of their range as you can."
Tom
took them up as far as possible, as Tuvok and Torres prepared to beam down.
The structure where they had located the Captain, held five aliens.
No one was in the immediate area with the Captain, but they had no way
of knowing what the inside of the structure looked like and what the visibility
was like. Hopefully they would go in and get her out without ever being
seen, but Torres for one, hoped to encounter the Kamarians. She wanted
nothing more than to get her hands on a few. They beamed down just behind
the structure, it was fully dark; no one spotted them. Tuvok signaled
Torres to follow and they entered the structure.
His tricorder leading the way, Tuvok headed for the Captain's location.
Voices caused a detour, forcing them to temporally take cover. For
an eternity Torres stayed motionless, crouched behind a pile of rubble
waiting for Tuvok's signal Finally he motioned and she came around to meet
him. Their only barrier was a locked door, which Tuvok shot with
one
phaser blast and opened. Inside it was dark, Torres turned on her
wrist light searching the interior for the Captain. The tricorder
said she was here, the room wasn't large but it was cluttered causing B'Elanna
to have to crawl from pile to pile until she found her. B'Elanna
reached over and moved a cluster of dirty sheets or rags; she heard a moan
and turned her light in it's direction. A gasp escaped as B'Elanna
got her first look a Kathryn. Curled in a fetal position, it was
hard to even distinguish this was the Captain. Her dress was torn
and grimy, her hair matted to her head, B'Elanna saw filth and blood everywhere,
but she couldn't tell where it originated. She looked broken and
so fragile, B'Elanna was almost afraid to touch her. Rolling her
over she found bruises on her face, her lip split and swollen on eye almost
shut, the rest of her hurt to even look at. She moaned without recognition
as Torres shut off the wrist light and gently lifted her before turning
to find Tuvok. He was directly behind her and by the look on his
face he too had gotten a good look at the Captain. His eyes met B'Elanna's
and held for a time before he turned to check the hall and signaled Torres
to follow. They had just cleared the structure when they were spotted,
by two Kamarians. Tuvok stunned one the other reached cover and fired
back yelling for back up as he did so. Torres, carrying the Captain,
ducked
behind
the structure while Tuvok returned their fire.
"Torres to delta flyer." She struggled to reach her comm. badge.
“Paris here." Tom didn't like the sound of her voice
"Tom,
can you get a lock?" Tuvok came toward her at a run. "Three to beam
up"
"Gotcha,
B'E." Tom replied as the three of them shimmered in the glow of the
transporter.
As they materialized on the flyer, Tom's jaw dropped, B'Elanna cradled the Captain in her arms, at least Tom assumed the form was the Captain.
"Tom get us out of here---fast." Torres yelled as soon as he appeared. She and Tuvok worked to make a comfortable place to set the Captain down. Once in the light of the flyer, B'Elanna could see the Captain was much worse off than even she thought. "We gotta get her to Voyager--fast."
"Mr. Paris, get us back to the ship---but be careful they know we are here, we had an altercation with two of them. I don't know if they have weapons to use against the flyer or not, let's not wait to find out." Tuvok was scanning for other ships or weapons and for the first time Tom saw he was visibly shaken.
Their question was answered in the next second as the flyer rocked with a phaser blast. Tuvok was immediately at his station. B'Elanna reluctantly left the Captain, took the seat behind Tom's and prepared for battle.
"Direct hit--no damage shields holding 98%." Tuvok's calm voice reported. "Evasive maneuvers, Mr. Paris."
"Aye." Tom spun the flyer out of the way of the next blast cringing at the moans it created behind him on the floor.
"Torres get a lock and return fire." Tuvok ordered.
"Aye, returning fire, but I can't determine an exact location."
"Hang on." Tom shouted as the flyer rolled knocking Tuvok to the floor and causing B'Elanna to hold on for dear life.
Tom rolled and pitched the flyer, snaking in and out of enemy fire. Not all maneuvers were successful and the flyer had taken several bad hits. He tried not to react to the moans and gasps on the floor behind him.
"Shields down to 50%---a small ship approaching mark 0053."
"Hold us steady, Tom. I'm gonna take a shot at disabling them." B'Elanna fired but at the same moment the flyer was rocked with another blast.
"Shields at 25% and falling; the Kamarian ship had been disabled. Scanning for others." Tuvok glanced at the Captain on the floor. "Torres reroute all power to shields. Paris get us out of here."
The flyer had been out of contact for over an hour and every one on the bridge was tense. Several more casualties had been reported from the security teams and Chakotay had just ordered all teams back to Voyager.
"We're being hailed."
"On screen, Mr. Kim." Chakotay braced himself.
"Commander, I expected better of you." Valime's smiling face filled the screen.
"What do you want, Valime?" Chakotay was short.
"Your attack was unsuccessful and I have just received reports that your shuttle craft has been shot down." Valime shook his head and his smile disappeared. "I am very angry with you. I should not negotiate any further, but I will give you one more chance to get your Captain back and anyone who might have survived the shuttle crash. If you will personally deliver the necessary equipment and information on the transport technology, then we may still have a deal.
"We can not give...."
"ENOUGH of your laws! You are far from the protection of your federation. You will live by my laws." Valime interrupted him.
"Valime, Where is the Captain? How do I know she is OK? Maybe you have nothing to trade at all."
"I have your lovely Captain, well maybe a little less lovely--she puts up quite a fight--a real tiger that one. She will recover." He seemed to snarl.
"What do you mean---recover? Where is the Captain?" Chakotay strained to keep his voice calm. "What have you done to her?"
"I grow impatient with this talk; do we have a deal?"
"Without the Captain there is no deal. I will speak to my senior officers, you contact me in half an hour and I want to SEE the Captain." Chakotay signaled Harry to end transmission.
Again an uneasy silence fell on the bridge. Now not only the Captain was in jeopardy, but the fate of the three senior officers aboard the flyer was also in question. Reports came in from sickbay, all injured crewman had been treated and released without serious problems. The only good news of the day. Harry dutifully scanned the area, no enemy ship had been spotted. Chakotay sat in silence trying to determine his next move and trying to drive away thought of the fate of his friends and Kathryn.
"Commander, I have something on scanners." Chakotay heard the underlying excitement in Harry's voice.
"What have you got, Harry?"
"I'm not sure--I think---Yes---Commander it's the flyer!" The excitement broke the surface.
"Confirmed, Commander- the flyer is leaving the atmosphere. "Reported Seven from Tuvok's station.
"Hail them, Harry."
"No response---Commander---two small ships are on their tail."
"What's their ETA?"
"Ten minutes--at their current speed." Harry looked worried "Commander--I'm detecting weakened shields--weapons off line---they'll never make it." This last comment was a whisper.
"Life sighs?" Chakotay held his breath.
"Three----no--a fourth -very weak."
"I'm going in to meet them." Chakotay moved to take the helm. "Red alert, power up weapons."
"Seven, target weapons on the first ship---fire as soon as you have a lock." Chakotay yelled over the blaring klaxons as he maneuvered the big ship into firing position.
"Locking on ---firing" Seven recounted "Direct hit--weapons off line."
"Harry, can we get a lock on the flyer?" Chakotay took a breath "Seven target the second ship and fire when ready.
"I've got them, Commander. Transporting the flyer to shuttle bay two."
"Bridge to Tuvok." Chakotay hit his comm. badge.
"Tuvok here, Commander."
"REPORT." Was all Chakotay could manage.
"We have retrieved the Captain and requested a site to site transport to sickbay. Torres and Paris and my self have only minor injuries and will report to sick bay accordingly. The delta flyer sustained slight damage, but is completely repairable . I will have a full written report within the hour."
"Acknowledged--I'll see you in sickbay--Chakotay out." Chakotay sat very still and composed himself for just a minute. "Mr. Kim, you have the bridge. I'll be in sickbay." And he was in the lift before Harry could answer.
Chakotay arrived outside sickbay at a dead run. He burst through the door only to find Tuvok, Tom and B'Elanna already there. By the looks on their faces the news couldn't be good. The doctor was busy on the other side of the room. The first thing he noticed was that the doctor had placed and actual physical barrier between the Captain's biobed and the rest of sickbay. He looked at the stricken faces of the senior staff, Starfleet officers, Maquis, adventurers, faces which should have been hardened by the experiences of war, their inner pain so visible. He walked pass them but stopped short of the divider and waited for the doctor to look up. His face was as pained as the others. Chakotay said nothing just waited.
"Commander----she will heal. I will speak to you in my office when I am finished here." From the look on his face Chakotay knew he would say no more now.
"May I see her---for just a minute?" Chakotay first feared he would refuse, but he nodded and stepped aside to allow Chakotay access.
"Commander, it isn't pretty but she will recover." The doctor touched his arm as he passed.
Chakotay nodded and stepped past the doctor. The green dress had been removed and lay in a crumpled heap on the floor. Kathryn lay on the biobed, a sheet pulled up to cover her chest, her arms uncovered a her sides. Her face was swollen, her body or what he could see of it had large bruises on it, her hair was matted and she was still covered in a combination of blood and dirt and substances he didn't want to think about. He knew what he saw was only superficial and she would be cleaned up and the doctor would repair this damage in just a short time. She looked so small and frail lying there--He stared silently as a tear slipped from the corner of his eye.
"Commander." The doctor touched his shoulder. "I need to finish here. I'll speak to you later."
Chakotay nodded and walked toward the quiet grroup on the other side of the barrier.
"Bridge to Chakotay"
"Chakotay here, go ahead Harry." His voice was so low Harry almost didn't recognize it.
"Commander, we're picking up a ship rising from the planet, ETA five minutes."
"On my way." Chakotay signaled Tuvok and headed for the bridge.
Chakotay exited the lift followed closely by Tuvok, Tom and B'Elanna. Tuvok took his position, Tom replaced the helmsman and B'Elanna headed for the engineering station. If there was going to be a fight they were ready---more than ready.
"Report." He commanded as he came to the center of the bridge.
"Commander, It appears to be the Kamarians, they have set an intercept course and weapons are powered up."
"Red alert--shields maximum, power up phasers." Chakotay took the center seat. "Hail them, Mr. Kim."
"No response, Commander."
"How long before intercept?"
"Four minutes."
"Keep hailing." In his mind Chakotay hoped they wouldn't answer; he hoped they would make any kind of move that would allow him to blow them out of the sky. He knew everyone on the bridge thought the same way. * Who would know?---who would blame them?* In his heart he knew and he knew he wouldn't do it.
"Intercept in two minutes; still no response." Mr. Kim interrupted his thoughts.
"Firing weapons." Tuvok reported as the ship rocked. "Shields are holding 99%"
"Hail them again, Mr. Kim. Evasive maneuvers, Mr. Paris; target their weapons, Mr. Tuvok."
"Still no response."
"Lock on and fire at will, Tuvok"
"Direct hit; no damage." Tuvok reported
"Power up torpedoes and target weapons." Voyager rocked with another more powerful blow, circuits blew showering them with sparks and filling the bridge with smoke. Tom's fingers flew across the console dodging and ducking the enemy fire.
"Shields down to 75% and falling"
"B'Elanna give maximum power to shields--fire torpedoes." Chakotay yelled above the noise and confusion and the ship rocked again.
"Maximum power rerouted ---Shields holding at 90%"
“Firing torpedoes---direct hit, shields down--weapons off line."
"Hail them, Mr. Kim."
"Still no response, Sir" Harry looked up "They are backing off."
In that moment, when he decided to allow their retreat, he hoped it wasn't something he would regret. "Let them go." Chakotay stared at the ship shrinking on the view screen, but he could feel the eight eyes of the senior staff boring deep into him. "Stand down red alert, power down weapons." He took a deep breath. "Mr. Paris set a course for home. Take us out of here warp three." He looked at each of them in turn and they understood his decision. "You three report to sickbay, as soon as the doctor is free to see you."
"Doctor to Commander Chakotay"
"Chakotay here."
"As soon as you can free yourself from the bridge, I would like to speak with you about the Captain's condition."
"On my way." He rose and headed for the lift. "Mr. Tuvok, you have the bridge."
He rode the lift deep in thought. He didn't believe she had any life threatening injuries, not in the physical sense anyway. His stomach retched at the visions passing through his head. He tried to breath deeply and clear his mind--he would be of no use this way. The doors opened and he walked to sickbay, the doctor motioned him into the office.
"She is resting; I have sedated her. Please sit down, Commander."
“How is she?" Chakotay took a seat across form the doctor.
"The
injuries you saw before, while not pretty and certainly painful, were very
minor and easily repairable. The swelling and most of the discoloration
are now gone. She suffered several broken ribs, which fortunately,
did no other damage. I was able to repair that also. She has
been sedated the whole time so I have been unable to speak with her.
However,
my examination indicates that she was not only beaten but..." He
stopped as if to measure his words or Chakotay's possible reaction to them.
"it indicates that the Captain was repeatedly and, I would say, quite
brutality
raped."
He stopped and let Chakotay absorb this before continuing. "Most
of the physical damage this caused has been repaired--though there will
be a recovery period necessary. I have also taken measures to prevent
the complication of pregnancy. My main concern however, is not physical,
but psychological damage." He looked to Chakotay and watched as all
the blood drained from his face. "Commander are you alright?"
Chakotay nodded. "Can I see her now?" The color was returning to his face. He had known this was most probable-but, now it was reality and he wanted to vomit.
"Yes, but she is still sedated. Commander, I am concerned; we have no councilor aboard and while I will gladly help in any way I can---I don't believe the Captain would be comfortable discussing this with me."
"Yes, well, we will have to work something out. I don't know if she will speak to me either." Chakotay rose. "I will consider the possibilities. I would like to see her now."
"Of course. I'll be here if you need me."
Chakotay looked down at her, so peaceful looking in sleep. She did look much better, no visible swelling, only a faint trace of a few bruises and she was clean and fresh smelling. The doctor had obviously used the sonic shower, her skin had that rosy glow. Kathryn wore a nightgown now, light cotton-pale blue. It wasn't hers, at least that he knew of, the doctor must have replicated it for her. *yes, like the screen, to afford her some privacy and a little dignity. He was almost human these days, their EMH.* Chakotay took her hand in his, holding it gently protected by the screen from prying eyes --he bent and placed a kiss on her forehead. Her eyes fluttered open, she smiled at him and sank back to sleep. As he watched her, Chakotay was unaware of the tears sliding silently down his cheeks.
He stood there for a long time, how long he wasn't sure, until he became aware of concerned voices across the room. B'Elanna and Tom had come to sickbay under the guise of having their rather trivial wounds treated. The doctor indulged them and supplied a limited update on the Captain's condition. Having been on the flyer with her, they were not fooled by the doctor's very optimistic outlook, but accepted it for the moment. Chakotay wasn't sure how much to tell them, but they knew in their hearts already. Tuvok needed to know as did Harry and something had to be told to the crew. Naomi needed to know something and Neelix. He would speak to the senior staff first and decide a course of action from there. He walked around the screen toward the questioning faces of Tom and B'Elanna.
“Hi. Are you two OK?" Chakotay addressed the two crewmen.
"Hi, yourself---yea we're fine. How's the Captain?" B'Elanna reached out to hug him . "How are you?"
"I'm OK; she's still asleep." He shook his head. "We need to talk. I think that we should meet--You, Tom, Tuvok and Harry." He paused looking up to catch Naomi sneaking in the door. "B'Ella arrange a meeting in the ready room in twenty minutes." He walked over to Naomi.
"Commander, I heard the Captain was here." She looked up at him with a very frightened look. "Is she OK?"
"Naomi, she's gonna be just fine." He crouched down to her level. "She's asleep now, but she'll wake up soon. Does you mother know where you are?" He smiled as he asked.
"No, Sir, but I had to know if she was OK."
"OK, Naomi." He picked her up. "Want to see her?" She nodded her head with excitement. "OK, but be very quiet 'cause we don't want to wake her just yet."
"Yes, Sir." She was smiling now as Chakotay put his finger to his lips and carried her around the screen.
They only stayed a minute, but it was enough to satisfy Naomi that the Captain was really there and alive. She had great faith in the EMH, so she had no trouble believing that she would be fine. When Chakotay brought her back to the door she was once again a happy little girl.
"You go straight back to your mom, now." Chakotay told her setting her outside the doors. "She must be worried."
"Yes, Sir." She snapped. She turned and started to run but turned back. "Commander? Thank you." And she was gone.
He hit his comm badge. "Chakotay to Ensign Wildman."
"Wildman here, Sir."
"Sam, Naomi is on her way to you. She came to sickbay and I let her have a peek at the Captain and sent her home.
"Thanks Chakotay---How is she? The Captain --I mean."
"She's gonna be just fine--asleep now. I'm sure Naomi will tell you."
"Thanks again --Wildman out."
Chakotay told the doctor to notify him as soon as the Captain stirred and headed to the bridge. He debated with himself about how much to tell them---Kathryn deserved some privacy---but the senior staff needed to be prepared for any psychological problems the Captain might experience. Kathryn would understand that need---normally--was Kathryn going to be normal? Only Harry hadn't seen her when they picked her up --so the others basically knew anyway. This group needed to know, the safety of the ship-Kathryn's ship---depended on it. Chakotay made his decision in the lift and proceeded to the ready room to inform the four of them. He could see B'Elanna's temper boil beneath the surface as he spoke and Tom actually swore and hit the desk. Harry's face flushed in a mixture of anger, pain and embarrassment. Tuvok stood perfectly still looking straight ahead showing no emotion, as usual, except for his fist which was clenched tightly behind his back. The official statement would be that the Captain had been rescued, her injuries were minor and she was resting comfortably and would be taking a few days off. He dismissed them, it was2300 hours. It had been a very long 56 hours since this began -he sent them all off to get some rest. Chakotay sat in her ready room, in her chair, behind her desk for another hour just staring at her things.
"EMH to Commander Chakotay."
"Chakotay here--yes, Doctor?.
"Commander the Captain is waking. You should be here when she does."
"Thank you doctor. On my way." Chakotay nodded to the changing shift as he crossed the bridge and headed for sickbay.
Chakotay entered sickbay and the doctor motioned him into the office. He seated himself behind his desk and waved Chakotay to the chair. "She is not awake, yet. I was wondering if you thought about counseling -yet?"
"I don't know--maybe when we talk to her we can get a better idea---she's a strong woman--I just don't know." He looked in the direction of the screen. "Shouldn't you check on her?"
"She's fine Commander. If she wakes, the monitor will let us know." He smiled. "I think actually I will give her something to stimulate her so she wakes up."
"Why not let her sleep until morning?"
"I would prefer to see her reaction sooner and since her physical condition presents no problem, I believe it would be best if she returned to her quarters tonight."
"Is that wise, should she be alone now?" Chakotay was frightened by the prospect.
"That is why I wanted you here. Your-er--'friendship' is the closest relationship she has on Voyager and I thought you might stay with her. I believe she would be more comfortable with you than any one else."
"I see, but you know our stubborn Capatin. She may decide she is fine on her own." *He seems to be blushing---can holograms blush?*
"I have anticipated this and I believe that if her choice is to stay here with me or return to her quarters with your--supervision--well, I think she will go along." The doctor was satisfied with his plan and it showed.
"You may just have something there." Chakotay chuckled for the first time in days.
"Good than shall we see to the Captain?" He rose and led Chakotay to the screened off area.
They positioned themselves on either side of her bed and the doctor administered the stimulant. It only took a few seconds before the Captain began to regain consciousness. Her eyes fluttered, then blinked open as she tried to orient herself. She looked from the doctor to Chakotay and back again before recognition began to show in her face. Unconsciously, she reached for Chakotay's hand and held it while she got her bearings.
"Captain, How are you feeling?" The doctor questioned.
"Rotten." Her reply was low and gravely and she reached her free hand to her throat.
“Yes, well, to be expected. May I get you a drink?"
"Please." She turned to Chakotay. "Naomi and Neelix?"
"Fine--both fine." He could see the relief in her eyes as she nodded. He helped her as she tried to sit up.
"Trying to leave me already?" The doctor replied rolling his eyes at Chakotay. They both laughed, even the Captain smiled.
"Seriously, gentleman I really would prefer to be in my own quarters."
"Captain, while I don't believe there to be any pressing medical problems, you didn't have---an easy time these last few days. I would be more comfortable if you weren't alone just now." Keeping a straight face he continued. "You will need time to recover--I have repaired the most obvious damage, but sometimes the human body needs to do thing in it's own time."
"OK, suppose Chakotay stays with me?" She looked to him for approval. "I really need to have some privacy. Please." There was an almost desperate plea in her eyes.
"I want you to rest. I'll give you a hypospray in case you have trouble sleeping. You will not be going back to work for at least three days and that means very limited contact with any and all work related problems. Am I clear on that?" The doctor tried to be stern although he wasn't sure it was necessary, her last remark had surprised him.
"Agreed. If I could just go to my quarters now?" When she looked up at them, she was small and frail, almost childlike.
"Certainly, Captain. Just let me get you that hypospray."
Kathryn slipped down from the biobed and swayed so that Chakotay had to catch her. She winced at his touch as he held her gently to allow her to steady herself.
"Maybe we should use a site to site transport?" Her uncertainty, combined with her low raspy voice, frightened Chakotay, he managed a smile.
"Good idea. I don't think you're dressed for a stroll around the ship anyway." He chuckled, for her benefit.
The doctor returned with the hypospray and definite instructions to rest. He gave her a second hypospray in case she experienced any discomfort and released her to Chakotay's care. Chakotay called for a site to site and they shimmered away, leaving the doctor alone in sickbay. They appeared in her living area and she immediately disengaged herself from his arms and headed for the bedroom. Finding herself a bit more unsteady then expected, she changed direction and sat on the couch.
"Can I get you something? Some tea? Chakotay watched her carefully as she sat-not comfortable even in her own living quarters. She rubbed her hands up and down her arms. "Cold? Shall I get you your bathrobe?"
"Yes, please and tea would be nice." She smile but never looked up at him, instead she turned her head and stared at the stars which passed by at warp speed.
He helped her with her robe before going to the replication for their tea. He set the tea down on the low table in front of the couch and gingerly sat next to her, just far enough away so that he wasn't touching her. He watched her quietly for a while, she was very stiff and uncomfortable and very far away. He wished he knew what to say or what he could do, but he didn't even know where to start.
"Kathryn." He said her name softly. When she turned to look at him, he saw tears in her eyes and his heart broke. He held out his arms and she shifted into them, placing her head on his chest. Chakotay held her while her silent tears turned to open body wrenching sobs. When she could cry no more, he gently lifted her and brought her to her room. He placed her under the covers and kissed her forehead. Her eyes were closed though he knew she wasn't sleeping, he turned to return to the living room when he felt her reach for him.
"Chakotay." It was only a whisper, but the deep sadness and hurt in her eyes told him volumes.
"Do you want me to stay with you?" He only wanted to comfort her, but he was afraid to.
She said nothing just moved aside to make room for him. He removed his boots and jacket and lay down beside her. Kathryn moved into the shelter of his arms and slept. Chakotay didn't get much sleep. Kathryn tossed and turned sometimes tears rolled down her cheeks as he did his best to quiet and comfort her through out the night. Just before morning, she woke them both with her screams. He still held her and she pounded his chest with her fists -not yet awake.
"Kathryn, Kathryn." He shook her to wake her. She stared up at him with tears in her eyes, a blank unfocused stare and them fear followed by anger flashed across her face. He called to her again. "Kathryn, it's OK." He soothed her until her eyes showed recognition.
"Chakotay-I'm---I'm." She croaked, her voice hoarse from screaming.
"Shh--shh it's OK." He folded her in his arms and held her until her heart stopped pounding.
"CAPTAIN THE TIME IS 0500 HOURS----CAPTAIN THE TIME IS 0500 HOURS"
"Damn computer." He smiled when he realized she was looking at him. "Want me to reset it for a few days so you can rest?"
"No, I'd rather get up.I'll rest later" At the questionable look she got she said "Promise"
They laughed and he hugged her close for a minute more. "Want some breakfast?" He asked as he released her and sat up.
"I really want a shower, but afterwards I'll eat something. Are you cooking?"
"No, but between that face and the doctors orders I guess I'm replicating. What would you like?"
“Coffee, lots of coffee and whatever--surprise me." She moved off the bed gingerly and made her way to the shower.
As soon as she was in the shower, he contacted Tuvok. He was going to ask him to cover the bridge, but he was too late. Apparently the doctor had covered that base as well and Chakotay wasn't expected on the bridge for at least the next two days. He was sure Kathryn would never let him stay that long and promised to contact Tuvok later. He made coffee and went about preparing breakfast, but Kathryn still wasn't out of the shower.
Chakotay listened at the bathroom, he only heard the water running, so he called out to her. No answer. He tried the door and it slid open. The room was filled with steam, peering through it he was unable to see Kathryn's outline through the glass door. He called her again, still no answer. He stepped inside and slid back the door. Kathryn sat on the floor of the shower, she scrubbed and scrubbed herself with a wash cloth until large patches of her skin were red and raw. Silent tears flowed down her face. She didn't even look up when the door opened.
"Kathryn." He knelt beside the shower and touched her shoulder lightly. "Kathryn time to get out. Let me help you."
"I can't get clean." She looked bewildered and very sad. "It won't come off."
"Kathryn, it's OK." He turned off the water and lifted her to her feet. "Come here." He wrapped her in a towel and hugged her.
Chakotay guided her to the bedroom and she changed into a fresh nightgown. He convinced her to lie down and she drifted off to sleep. When he was sure she was soundly asleep, He went to his quarters for dry clothes. He returned to clean up the water in her bathroom and shower there so he wouldn't be far if she woke or had another dream. He cleared away and recycled their breakfast and contacted the doctor to update him. Neither knew what to expect or really how to help other than just being there, so that's what he did. It was 0930 before she woke again and came out startled to find him working in her living room.
"Chakotay?"
"Hi, how are you?" He asked casually. "Want something to eat?"
"Oh, are you my mother now?" She laughed at his expression.
"No, but according to the doctor I may be your legal guardian." He grinned at her.
"Or guardian angel." She said quietly, smiling at him. "I'll have some coffee first--but I can get it--I'm not and invalid. She gave him a warning look and he kept silent. "Want some?"
"Sure, but make mine tea." He watched her move across the room to the replicator. She seemed so normal--yet he knew she wasn't. She came back and sat next to him on the couch. They were quiet as they sipped their drinks.
"I know what I did." She said, breaking the silence. "The shower--I know what I did." She put down her cup and took his hands, looking into his eyes. "I'm not crazy---it's just how I feel---unclean---dirty.."
"I know you're not crazy.." He didn't know what to say to her. "I'm here if you want to talk about it. Hell, I'm here what ever you want to do."
"Because the doctor ordered you too?" This wasn't a wisecrack or some kind of test, he could see the uncertainty in her eyes.
"Because I love you." He pulled her close to him. "I will always love you, Kathryn Janeway---no matter what happens to either of us---always know that I love you."
Kathryn pulled back so she could see his face. "I love you, Chakotay---I don't know how I'm gonna get through this --but with your help I know I will." She buried her face in his chest. "Don't ever leave me." She whispered.
They stayed together like this for a short time, then she went to dress and Chakotay made them something to eat. Kathryn wasn't hungry to spite the fact that she hadn't eaten anything for days, but she made the effort for his sake. She must have lost ten pounds in the last few days, something she could scarcely afford. He worried about that too.
"How did I get back?" She knew he wasn't ready for that question by the look on his face.
"Tuvok, Tom and B'Elanna." He was unsure just how much detail she wanted at this point. Actually, B'Elanna carried you." He waited for her reaction.
"B'Elanna? Well I shouldn't be surprised, she's quite a woman--this friend of yours." She smiled. "I'm glad you made me see the light in her case---she's a good crew member too." When he didn't say anything she continued. "Maybe someday I can count her as my friend also."
"I think she would like that." He was going to let her lead the conversation.
"Reports. They must have done reports. I'd like to read them." She needed to fill in the missing pieces.
"I have them here, I thought you might want them--but, are you sure you want them now?" He was concerned she would take on too much--too soon. He couldn't stand the pain in her eyes when she thought about the last few days.
"After we eat, I'll read them.." She took his hand. "I need to do this."
"I know, just --do you need to do this now?" He didn't even try to hide his concern.
"Yes." She got up and came to his side of the table, she took both his hands and locked her eyes with his. "I know it is difficult for you to see me hurting, but I need to hurt. I need to feel all these feelings or I'll never put this behind me."
"You amaze me Kathryn Janeway, you are the strongest person I have ever known. Many times you have been my strength.
She gave a short laugh. "Well then-maybe it's time to return the favor. I need your strength to help me through this." She picked up her coffee and walked over to the couch. "Now, which pile do I start with?"
"This is my report of the overall operation. You might want to start there." He said joining her on the couch. "These are Tuvok's Tom's and B'Elanna's---that is the Doctor's and over her is Parker's on the security teams. That should keep you busy for a while.
"I would say so." She took a deep breath and began Chakotay's report.
Kathryn spent hours reading reports. He tried to be there without hindering her. It tore at his heart when he looked up several times to see tears streaming down her cheeks, but he let her keep reading. When she needed him, he would be here, that was all he had to offer her. Finally, she finished the last report and set it down on the table.
"I'm going to rest now. Please don't let me be more than an hour, if I fall asleep." To his surprise she didn't go to her room but swung her feet up and curled on the end of the couch. "I'll write my report later-- maybe tomorrow. I think later I'd like to see Naomi and maybe we can have dinner in the mess hall tonight."
“If you're sure that's what you want to do." He clearly thought it too soon.
"I think it would be good for the crew to see me, don't you?" She spoke from behind closed eyes, so he couldn't judge her reactions.
“I think it would be good for them. It's you I'm worried about." Chakotay took the blanket off the back of the couch and placed it over her. "Get some rest."
"Yes, mom." She snuggled under the blanket and dozed off.
End chapter three.