Every day saw an improvement. The Captain had returned. From that first day back on the bridge, she never missed a beat in command mode. True they had been without confrontation and were still well stocked, so that there had been no real test of her composure, but Captain and crew alike were confident there would be no problems. Kathryn was taking a little longer to heal, but progress was evident there also. Chakotay had spent every night, since her return in her quarters. Each night he held her as she slept and sleeping became easier and the nightmares less frequent. They had not resumed the relationship begun just before the 'incident', but it had only been a month since Kathryn's return and they felt no need to rush.
Tom and B'Elanna were aware of their sleeping arraignments, as was Tuvok, but never spoke publicly of them. Even Chakotay's claim of ownership had somehow missed the rumor mill. The crew either wasn't aware that the Captain and her first officer were sharing quarters or they didn't care. It had been a quiet month, everyone was well fed and rested and there had been plenty of time to relax and enjoy. Sandrine's was open for business nightly and was almost always packed. There had been a pool tournament, which the Captain had won hands down and several dances, a few of which she and Chakotay attended together and all without incident. The day had been uneventful and quiet as ever, the Captain spent most of the afternoon in her ready room going over reports and Chakotay had the bridge. After handing the bridge to beta shift, Chakotay went to the ready room to collect Kathryn for dinner. They went directly to the mess hall to grab an early dinner before the crowd arrived. Taking their usual out of the way table, they were able to enjoy a quiet undisturbed dinner and still appear to be accessible to the crew. They were just about ready to leave, when B'Elanna and Tom came by to say hello.
"Captain, Commander, How are you this fine evening?" Tom had the devil in his eyes, which couldn't be covered by his formal speech.
"We're fine, Mr. Paris---just what are you up to?" Kathryn spoke what they all were thinking.
"Captain you wound me." Tom tried to look offended. "I merely wanted to inquire as to your health and..."
"There is always an 'and' or a 'but'." Chakotay interrupted. "Out with it Paris."
"We only wanted to ask you two to join us later a Sandrine's for some pool." B'Elanna explained, smacking Tom's arm. "He always has to put on a show."
"Sounds good to me." Chakotay looked at Kathryn for conformation.
"Sure, how about 2100 hours? That gives you time to eat and us time to change."
"Great, we'll see you then." B'Elanna started to drag Tom away, but turned back and leaned close to the table so as not to be overheard.
"Hey, Chak, I'll feed mine; you change yours." She winked at them as she pushed Tom to a table.
Kathryn laughed so loud half the room turned to look. Seeing nothing unusual, just the Captain and Commander laughing and smiling at each other, everyone went back to what they were doing. They left soon after that, unnoticed.
Later when they entered Sandrine's they were more noticeable. Dressed comfortably in brown slacks and a cream colored shirt open at the neck, Chakotay never looked happier as he escorted Kathryn in, guiding her across the room, his arm very comfortably around her waist. Kathryn, for her part, was all but glowing in slacks and a soft and sexy peach sweater. She acknowledged different crew members without discomfort as they crossed the room. Harry and Jenny were playing pool, but Tom assured them they were next on the table. Kathryn sat at the table with B'Elanna while Tom and Chakotay went to the bar.
"So B'Elanna, are you playing with Tom or should we team up and kick butt?"
"Captain, what a great idea!" B'Elanna loved kicking butt---at anything and the Captain was the pool champ. "I'm for teaming up."
"I think we're gonna make a great team and B'Elanna.." Kathryn leaned in and smiled. "When we're off duty like this---please---call me Kathryn."
"Sure, Cap--Kathryn." She looked a little shocked.
"Your drinks, ladies." Tom handed them each a glass of wine. "Looks like we're up. B'E you want to shoot first for us or me?"
"The Ca..Kathryn and I are gonna be a team." She smiled at his expression. "We're gonna kick your butts."
"Is that so, just let me get the big man over here." He looked around for Chakotay and waved him over. "We'll see who's butt gets kicked."
"Are we ready?" Chakotay joined the group.
"Yea WE are ready." Tom still looked amazed. "It's you and me, Chakotay. B'Elanna and KATHRYN are a team now."
"We could be in big trouble my friend." Chakotay winked at the girls, he knew what Kathryn was planning before they came in. "We better be careful what we play for."
The new team took three straight games before they relinquished the table to waiting crewmen. The four of them went to the bar for one more drink, before heading home. They had played for drinks and the boys still owed them one. Four glasses of wine were more than Kathryn was used to and she was beginning to feel the effects.
"Kathryn, you are definitely the better pool player, but I'm the better drinker." B'Elanna smiled as she watched her new friend weave toward the bar.
"Can't argue with that. Next time we play for ice cream, coffee ice cream." They laughed together.
"I'm glad you two are having a good time." Chakotay handed them another drink and steadied Kathryn with an arm around her waist. "It's good to hear you laugh."
"It's
good to feel like laughing." She shook her head a little. "Synthehol
isn't supposed to affect me this way,"
"Oh,
it's not synthehol. This is some of Tom's best stuff." Chakotay cringed
at the look on her face.
"That would explain it." Kathryn was beginning to slur slightly. "Tom Paris--- you are a dead man." She managed with a straight face, as a very innocent looking Tom rejoined the group.
"Me? What did I do?" He feigned innocence, but stepped slightly behind B'Elanna. "B'E dance with me." As he made his escape to the dance floor.
"Are you OK?"
"Yes, but I've had enough of this." She handed Chakotay the glass. "Dance with me?"
He instantly took her in his arms and guided her toward to the dance floor. The music was slow and there were a few other couples dancing --- no one noticed the Captain's slight imbalance.
"Kathryn, are you drunk?" Chakotay pretended to be shocked.
"No" She smiled up at him, placing her hand on the side of his face. "I am very relaxed and a little tipsy, but not quite drunk." She stood on her tiptoes reaching up to bring his lips to hers. To the surprise of everyone in the room--including Chakotay---the Captain gave a very openly passionate kiss to her first officer right in the middle of Sandrine's dance floor.
"Kathryn?" Chakotay broke the kiss, worried this openness was the wine and that Kathryn would regret this in the morning.
"I am NOT drunk." She was smiling and winked at him. "But--maybe you better take me home, before I do, do something I will be embarrassed about in the morning."
"Yes, Ma'am." He thought better of leaving so quickly on the heals of that kiss. "We should say goodnight to B'Ella and Tom."
"Yes, of course." She was laughing out loud, but managed to keep her voice low. "It wouldn't do if we rushed out of here like you were gonna take me up on the invitation I just extended."
"What makes you think I won't." He whispered as they reached the other couple.
"Oh--- I certainly hope you do!" She was not as quiet and got a few sideways glances.
They head a short conversation with Tom and B'Elanna and said their good-byes. As they made their way across the room a few people said good night, but no one stopped them. Even at that, the short distance between the dance floor and the door seemed like miles. It took forever to make the three deck trip in the turbo lift from the holodeck to the senior crew quarters. They didn't speak or look at one another, Kathryn gently leaned against him as they made their way down the corridor to her quarters. He keyed in the code and they slipped into the darkness.
"Lights one quarter." She ordered and turned to face him reaching her arms around his neck. "Do I have to engrave that invitation?"
"Kathryn, I would like nothing better, but the doctor said at least six weeks."
"The DOCTOR doesn't know everything." She placed a light kiss on his lips and slipped away. "When exactly did you start thinking I would listen to the doctor? " She laughed as she stripped off the sweater.
"You really should listen to him---sometimes he does know what's best." He laughed along with her as he watched her remove the rest of her clothing.
"This is not one of those times." She now moved to remove his clothes. "He doesn't understand how much I need you." She unbuttoned his shirt and began kissing her way down his chest and stomach, fingers fumbling with the buckle on his pants.
"Kathryn." He reached down and brought her up to him. "Are you sure--maybe - the wine..."
"Chakotay----please." She whispered looking at him, love desire, fear, hope, longing---a full spectrum of emotion reflected in her eyes---pleading with him.
He kissed her, scooped her up and carryed her to their bedroom. Placing her gently on the bed, he quickly removed his clothes and lay down beside her. Chakotay raised himself on an elbow so he could look at her and brushed a strand of hair from her eyes as she reached up to trace his tattoo with her finger. He took her hand from his face kissing the fingers, while holding her eyes with his. She wanted this he could see, but she was afraid---those steel blue eyes smoldering with desire were tinged with fear---he could feel it. He leaned over her brushing delicate kissed across her lips, her eyes, gently nibbling her ear, returning a deeper kiss, she parted her lips, searching with her tongue. His hand moved, barely touching across her softy shoulder, reaching and gently cupping her breast. Chakotay stopped when he felt her stiffen. Raising his head, he looked into her eyes for reassurance, waiting for her to relax before continuing.
She reached up bringing his mouth back to hers. He gently ran his hand over her breasts across the slight round of her belly to her soft auburn curls. Kathryn arched toward him, instinctively parting her thighs. Fingers lightly stroking the inside of her thighs, his mouth left a trail of open moist kisses down her neck, across her shoulder to her breast. Gently licking the valley between her breasts, kissing the ivory mound before his lips closed around the erect nipple. Chakotay gently spread her curls delicately probing her moistened folds. Kathryn moaned digging her fingers into his shoulders, then entwining them in his hair as he kissed and caressed his way down her body. Chakotay positioned himself between her thighs, spreading her with his fingers before bending to taste her salty nectar. His efforts were rewarded by deep moans as Kathryn strained to increase their contact. Languidly, he explored her, his tongue licking and teasing just barely making contact, then alternately plunging into her depths, leaving her breathless and begging. His tongue continued its ministrations, while he entered her first with one finger than with two. Kathryn lifted her hips, gasping as she thrust against him. As his mouth closed around the swollen bundle of nerves, she threw back her head, lifting him as she arched up off the bed, emitting a deep throaty sob. Chakotay's mouth could feel the pulsating throb as her body erupted in climax.
Chakotay moved up to lie next to her, taking a moment to gaze down at her. Kathryn's hair was tousled, her body slick with sweat and he thought she never looked more beautiful. It only took a minute for her to catch her breath and she reached up to bring him down to her. Kathryn kissed his face, licking the taste of herself from his lips as she ran her hands down his body. She pulled him down to cover her, her mouth seeking his, her hands caressing his hard length. Chakotlay raised up kneeling between her legs, watching her face, her eyes closed as he slowly entered her. Kathryn grimaced involuntarily at the feel of him and he pulled back. She opened her eyes. Smiling at him she wrapped her legs around his waist plunging him into her. The sudden force of entry caused her to gasp and stiffen. Kathryn held him still for several minutes while she allowed herself time to relax and accommodate him, before initiating a gentle rocking motion and freeing him to move with her. They moved in unison building momentum, matching thrust for thrust until he felt her inner muscles clenching. As Kahryn cried out, he allowed himself to join her calling her name as he burst forth inside her.
Chakotay rolled to her side and Kathryn snuggled against his chest; wrapped his arms around her and sleep overtook them both.
"CAPTAIN THE TIME IS 0500 HOURS. CAPTAIN THE TIME IS 0500 HOURS."
Chakotay woke to the sound of the computer and reached across the bed to find it empty. He looked around; no lights and no sign of Kathryn.
“Computer lights half power." He still saw nothing. "Kathryn?" He called out and was rewarded with a loud grunt form the other room. *What the hell?* He got up, grabbing a robe and walked into the living area, but she wasn't there either. Turning toward the bathroom he called again. "Kathryn."
"Here." It was all she managed, except for an awful retching sound.
He opened the door to find Kathryn kneeling on the floor, head resting on the toilet. She was white as a ghost and shaking. It was obvious she had already emptied the contents of her stomach, but the retching wouldn't stop.
"Kathryn." He knelt down beside her.
"Teach me to drink." She tried to smile, but began retching again.
"Kathryn, you didn't drink that much." He had more than a little experience with drinking until you puked--from both sides--this didn't look right. "Let me help you back to bed." She just relaxed and he lifted her and carried her to the bed. "We better contact the doctor."
"NO! Please, I'll be OK." She took a deep breath. "I really don't want to see him. I just couldn't take a lecture now."
"On one condition." He smiled. "You spend the morning here, in bed. I'll come back at break and check on you and if you can keep something down than, no doctor. Deal?"
"Deal." She smiled and closed her eyes.
*Boy that was way too easy. No fight at all, something's not right." Chakotay headed for the shower and the start of the day on the bridge, without Kathryn.
When Commander Chakotay entered the bridge most of alpha shift was already at their stations. The first thing everyone noticed was that he was alone, but no one mentioned it; just the usual round of 'good mornings'. Before taking his seat, he bent close to Tuvok and whispered something. Tuvok raised one eyebrow and nodded, nothing more.
At 0900, time for the morning briefing--still no Captain--the senior staff filed into the conference room. They looked at each other, whispered questions, but fell silent when the Commander took the seat at the head of the table. Everyone settled down and waited for an explanation. Just then the door swished open. To everyone's surprise, especially Tuvok and the Commander, the Captain stood in the doorway.
"Good morning, everyone." The Captain breezed into the room, nodded at the Commander as he silently yielded her seat. "Sorry to hold you up. Let's start with you, Mr. Tuvok." She took her seat offering no more and the briefing continued as it did every morning.
At the conclusion of the meeting, Chakotay lingered behind as the staff filed out to begin their day. The Command team sat in silence until the last of the staff had left the room and the door swished closed.
"Kathryn, I thought we had a deal?" He tried to reprimand her, but truthfully she looked so much better he couldn't hide his relief.
"That was made under duress; you can't hold me to that." She knew he wasn't really mad, just concerned. "I told you it was just the wine. I feel fine now." Before he could speak she continued. "I even ate a light breakfast, so you don't have to worry."
"You do look much better. Are you sure you're OK?"
“Yes, I'm fine." She stood and patted his hand. "Now let's get to work."
Together they stood and entered the bridge, taking their respective seats. The command team back in place, things returned to normal and a calm settled over the bridge.
"Captain?"
"Yes, Mr. Tuvok."
"I'm picking up something on long range sensors. It appears to be two ships. I can't detect any further information." His hands flew over the controls.
"Mr. Kim, can you recalibrate the long range sensors?"
"I have, Captain---still nothing."
"Very well. Mr. Kim, keep an eye on them. Let me know if you get anything" As she rose she gripped the arm of her command chair, looking over her shoulder to Chakotay. "You have the bridge Commander, I'll be in my ready room." She exited the bridge with the same flare with which she had entered the conference room. Chakotay smiled and shook his head.
Things remained quiet for the next week. The ships seemed to shadow them just at the edge of their long range sensors, but made no move to get closer. They were headed toward what appeared to be an inhabited system--two M class planets around one sun, each with two moons. They were too far out to know much about it yet and still fairly well supplied from their last stop, but out here systems could be few and far between, making each one worth investigating. Chakotay had awoken twice more, in the past week, to find Kathryn sitting on the bathroom floor, pale and shaking. She steadfastly refused to see the Doctor.
"CAPTAIN THE TIME IS 0500 HOURS. CAPTAIN THE TIME IS 0500 HOURS."
Chakotay sat up, she was gone again. He jumped out of bed, pulling on his pants and stormed into the bathroom. To his surprise she was in the shower humming to herself when he entered.
"Good morning." He called to her, looking a little sheepish.
"Hi, I'll be done here in a minute." She called through the glass. "Get me a coffee?"
"Only if you'll eat something."
"OK make it light---be right out."
Chakotay replicated coffee and bagels for both of them and a dish of strawberries. Hhe knew she would be tempted by strawberries. Kathryn came out to join him wearing her bathrobe, her hair still wrapped in a towel. She brushed a kiss across his cheek and popped a strawberry into her mouth before seating herself across form him.
"Bridge to Captain Janeway."
"Janeway here." She replied automatically, rolling her eyes at him and trying to swallow the strawberry.
"Captain, sorry to disturb you, but the ships on long range are moving." The young Ensign was nervous contacting the Captain at this hour.
"How far out are they Ensign Nelson?" She was glad to remember the Ensign's name. It was her first time covering the bridge for gamma shift.
"Still 18 hours out at their current speed." She took a breath. "They could be here in 11 at top speed."
"Thank you, Ensign, keep me informed if any thing changes--Janeway out." She popped another strawberry and tore off apiece of bagel. "Guess another mystery will be solved soon."
"It's been too quiet anyway." He smiled as he stuffed his mouth with bagel.
She swatted at him, as she bit another strawberry and grabbed her coffee. "I'm getting dressed." She headed for the bedroom.
Chakotay showered and joined her in the bedroom. She was seated at her dressing table, drying her hair. As he was dressing his back was to her, but he could see her reflection in the mirror. Her coffee sat cold on the table as she sipped from a glass of water. She cleared the dishes from the dressing table to the recycler and returned to the bedroom to check on him. Just as she reached the door, she blanched. A look of panic crossed her face and she spun toward the bathroom. By the time Chakotay got there, she was bent over the bowl again.
"That's it!" Would you like to walk to sickbay or shall I request an emergency beam out?" He felt badly for her, hunched over the toilet like death---but enough was enough and he made that clear with his tone of voice. When she didn't answer, just continued to retch, he hit his comm. badge, "Chakotay to Tuvok."
"Tuvok here, Commander"
"Tuvok, You have the bridge this morning. The Captain and I will be in sickbay, if we're needed."
"Aye, Commander."
"Kathryn." He spoke more softly as he helped her up. "We're going to sickbay." He tapped his badge. "Transporter room one--transport the Captain and I to sickbay."
The emergency transport signal automatically activated the doctor, who was very surprised as his patient materialized.
"Captain?" He looked at her pale face with concern. "Commander, help her up on the table. Now, what is the nature of the problem?"
"Nothing, I just didn't feel well and the Commander panicked." She waved them off.
"I did not panic. She hasn't been well all week." She gave him an evil look but he continued. "I have found her vomiting, sweating and shaking several times."
"OK--you two---stop." He began to wave his tricorder over the Captain. "Please sit still, Captain." He looked over the readings and rescaned. "Humm." He eyed the two Commanding Officers. "Humm."
"Doctor as intelligent as 'Humm' sounds---do you have a better diagnosis?" She snapped "Well, what does it say?"
"Captain---it says --You are a 43 year old, human female, relatively healthy and approximately five weeks pregnant."
"PREG..I...This Can't .....Doctor..." Kathryn stammered and automatically looked toward Chakotay.
For his part, Chakotay stood there shocked, his mouth hanging open as he watched the reality and the horror cross Kathryn's face. He took a quick look around, thanking the gods no one else was in sickbay.
"Doctor, when we brought the Captain back, you told me you had taken measures to prevent this." Chakotay found his voice first and desperately tried to keep it level. "How could this happen?"
"I'm afraid---I don't have an answer for that." He was truly perplexed. "The precautions taken both before and after the---'incident' ---well that coupled with the treatment and the extent of the Captain’s injuries--this should be medically impossible."
"Well, so much for impossible!" The Captain regained some of her composure.
"Captain, You can read my medical logs...."
"Doctor, I do not doubt you---what now?' The last part was more to herself than him.
"There are options--however--my ethical sub- routines won't allow --well maybe considering the circumstances..."
"Tuvok to Janeway."
"Janeway here--I'm rather busy---what is it Mr. Tuvok?"
"Captain, it seems the ships are capable of more speed than we gave them credit for.."
"The point, Mr. Tuvok."
"They will intercept in approximately four hours."
"Keep me informed Mr. Tuvok.---Janeway out."
She tried to assess the situation. She felt like shit, she had just been abrupt---no downright rude to Tuvok, over an open comm. Link - so the whole bridge had heard it - two unknown ships were closing in on Voyager---Chakotay looked as if he'd been kicked in the stomach- and she was caring a child which was the result of ...result of...what?"
"Doctor --do a DNA test ." It really was a very slim chance, but a chance just the same. "I need to know if the child is human."
"Captain, I wasn't aware the possibility existed."
"Doctor- you had no need to be---just do the test." She slid off the bio bed and another wave of nausea swept over her. "Can you do something about this nausea?"
"Yes, yes. I'll get a hypospray." He retrieveed the hypospray and returned without stopping. "You should get some rest and I'll send some vitamins to your replicator." He put the hypo to her neck and it hissed. "You..."
"Doctor, I'll be in my ready room." She started to leave.
"Captain, it will take some time--our knowledge of Kamarian physiology is limited."
"Just do it!" She walked out Commander in tow.
They rode to the bridge in silence and crossed over to her ready room. She simply nodded to Tuvok as they passed. No one on the bridge moved or spoke until the doors swished close behind them. There were curious looks and whispers which Tuvok silenced with one lifted eyebrow.
"Kathryn?" It was the first thing Chakotay had said to her.
"I don't know --Chakotay---I just don't know." She wrapped her arms around herself and walked over to the view port.
"How are you feeling?" He came up behind her and put his arms over hers.
"Better." She looked over her shoulder at him and smiled. "I need to think."
"I know. Would you like me to leave you alone?"
"No." It was all she said--all either of them said for a very long time. She leaned slightly back into his arms and they watched the stars outside the view port. It seemed like minutes--could have been hours when the chirp of her comm. badge brought their thoughts back to Voyager.
"Bridge to Captain Janeway." Tuvok's bodiless voice.
"Janeway here."
"Captain - the ships are on a definite intercept course---ETA 1 hour 43 minutes and Captain---the signature is Kamarian."
"Acknowledged---go to yellow alert and keep me informed--let me know when we are in hailing range--Janeway out." She moved to the replicator. "Can I get you something?'
"Tea"
She ordered coffee and his tea and went to sit on the couch. She motioned him to join her and took a sip of the coffee. She swallowed hard and returned to the replicator. She recycled the coffee and ordered tea instead.
"Lesson one---coffee is not a good thing." She smiled at his expression of shock. "What do you suppose they want now?" She was able to sip on the tea.
"I guess they will tell us. I haven't known them to be shy." He studied her now---the strength of this woman was astonishing---That she wasn't at this very moment on the bridge charging weapons was nothing short of amazing. He got up and replicated several pieces of toast just a little butter and jelly on the side. "Share this with me." He offered her the plate.
"Not very subtle." She smiled taking a piece.
“You need to keep something down." He picked up a piece, spread it with jelly and took a bite. "See, I'm eating too."
"I know. Keep up our strength and all that." She made a small sound--almost a laugh.
Kathryn managed two pieces of toast and another cup of tea, even held it down. She rested her head on the back of the couch, closing her eyes- resting- thinking-trying not to think-all at the same time. Her stomach was settled now---at least until Tuvok broke the silence.
"Bridge to Captain Janeway."
"Janeway here." She sounded strong; she sounded like the Captain.
"We are within hailing range of the Kamarian ships."
"On my way." She got up, straightened her uniform and headed toward the door.
"Kathryn, are you going to be OK?" Chakotay followed her.
She turned to face him--Captain's face in place, she smiled "Kathryn is a little shaky---the Captain will be just fine." She turned, took a deep breath and entered the bridge, Chakotay right behind her.
"Report."
"Two ships, on an intercept course--within hailing range--ETA 22 minutes--they have raised shields and powered weapons." Tuvok reported. "Tactically, Captain even together they are no match for Voyager."
"Hail them, Mr. Kim."
"No response, Captain."
"Mr. Paris, come about. Let's face them down."
"Aye, Captain." His hands moved lightly over the controls as Voyager came about smoothly.
"Ahead 1/4 impulse." She settled in her chair. "Mr. Kim keep hailing." She watched as the ships on the view screen grew larger, they would be within firing range shortly--traveling as they were now toward one another. *Why are they doing this?*
"Captain, firing range in 3 minutes."
"Red alert--shields up--power up weapons, Mr. Tuvok." She took a deep breath. "Mr. Kim, open a broad channel."
"Channel open, Captain."
"Kamarian ships this is Captain Kathryn Janeway of the Federation Starship Voyager. We are on a peaceful mission and do not wish to engage you. Stand down your weapons and alter course." She had no sooner finished than the bridge shook violently. "I take than as a no---Report." She gripped the arms of her chair to hold herself in place.
"Shields holding 98%--no damage." Tuvok's ever calm voice responded.
"Target their weapons, Mr. Tuvok. Hold position Mr. Paris." She tapped her badge "Torres-full power to forward shields." They rocked again. "Lock on those weapons and fire at will, Mr. Tuvok."
Voyager rolled slightly--rocking back after each blow. Tom's fingers flew across the console, steadying the ship. Tuvok fired twice, hitting the forward ship each time.
"Direct hit, Captain--their weapons are off line." Tuvok reported. "The second ship is coming around."
The bridge rocked--they were closer, somewhat more powerful. Several crewmen lost their footing and tumbled across the bridge.
"Take out those damned weapons!" The Captain shouted clinging to her chair. "Damage reports."
"No reports of damage from lower decks-several minor injuries." Kim offered.
"Our shields still holding 96%---their weapons are off line."
"Try hailing them, Mr. Kim"
"Captain, they are adjusting course. It appears they intend to ram us." Tuvok warned.
“Bridge to engineering."
"Here, Captain."
"B'Elanna send a deflector pulse through forward shields--give me all the power you can--Tuvok power up torpedoes --lock on their propulsion systems and fire."
"Direct hit--first ship had been disabled the seco..." Tuvok never finished.
The ship heaved, the bridge rolled--consoles exploded as the second ship glanced off Voyagers deflector reinforced shields. Tuvok gripped his console---while Harry's exploded sending him across the floor. The Captain was flung from her chair, landing hard up against the railing. "Evasive maneuvers!" She shouted from the floor. "Tuvok target their engines---damage reports."
Tom's fingers flew across the flashing lights, adeptly maneuvering Voyager away form the other ship. Chakotay was at Harry's station reciting lower deck damage reports. Tuvok was powering up another torpedo as the Captain struggled to her feet.
"Shields?"
“Shields at 80%--targeting their engines--firing." Tuvok calmly reported. "Direct hit, Captain--Both ships are dead in the water."
Harry returned to his station, badly shaken but otherwise unhurt. Chakotay offered the Captain a hand, which she took returning to her seat.
"Hail them, Mr. Kim"
"They are hailing us, Captain"
She sat up taller, straightened her uniform, took a cleansing breath and nodded to Kim to open the Channel.
"Kathryn, how good to see you again." Once again Valime's green face filled the view screen.
"Valime, too bad I can't say the same. What do you want this time?" She appeared calm and collected, as calm as someone who was just engaged in battle could look.
“My lovely Kathryn. You have the advantage, why do you not pursue it?" He actually had the nerve to smile at her. "I would not hesitate in your position."
"Thankfully, I am a better person than you. Again, what do you want?" Her expression was serious--she would not be bated by him. In fact she showed no reaction--except for the hand which unconsciously slid off the arm of her chair and rested on her stomach---fortunately only Chakotay noticed.
"Yes, yes--You are the ever honorable Kathryn Janeway--perhaps I can appeal to that sense of honor?"
"Get to the point."
"My men and I had a two fold mission. First to acquire your transport technology and secondly--do forgive me, Kathryn--secondly, to bring the brave and beautiful lady Captain of the Starship Voyager to her knees." He shook his head and smiled at the screen; for her part Kathryn did not visible react. "My superiors do not take kindly to failure---and as you are well aware--- I have failed at both missions. In the service of our leaders, we must be successful or die trying. There is no honor in failure, so the only honor left to us is in our death. You are victorious, this last honor lies in your hands. You must destroy us." He made an exaggerated bow, like the one he did on the planet, and again smiled at the Captain.
The Captain stared directly into his eyes. "Valime, the crew of Voyager is an honorable crew, we are bound by laws and beliefs to abide by certain codes. Those beliefs do not include cold blooded murder. I will not destroy you, go home Valime." She never took her eyes off Valime's. "I'm finished here. Mr. Kim, end this transmission." The screen went dark and then the stars of the delta quadrant reappeared. "Mr. Paris, come about and resume course for the Alpha Quadrant, warp three. Commander, you have the bridge, I'll be in my ready room." She rose and crossed the bridge to a chorus of 'Ayes'. Kathryn stopped as she reached the door to her ready room. "Mr. Tuvok."
"Yes, Captain."
"Mr. Tuvok, I owe you and apology..."
"Captain, I do not find that necessary." Tuvok glanced sideways at the bridge crew and Kathryn understood his meaning.
"However, Mr. Tuvok, I do-- and I find it necessary to do so here on the bridge, since everyone present now, heard the way I spoke to you. I feel it is only right that they should also hear me apologize. Earlier today, I let my personal concerns interfere with my professional decorum, the manner in which I spoke to you was inexcusable and for that I apologize."
"Captain, what you did was a perfectly normal human reaction and I don't believe you should have to apologize for being human--however knowing you - I do understand your need to do so. Captain, I accept your apology.
"Thank you, Tuvok." She started to turn but before she could leave the bridge her entire bridge crew stood at attention facing her, a silent salute to honor their Captain. An expression of respect, which almost reduced her to tears. She turned back and returned their salute and them left the bridge.
Alpha shift was long over when Chakotay rang the chime to enter her ready room. He rang three times before he heard her familiar answer.
“Come" She was seated behind her desk and smiled when she looked up to see him enter.
"Are you OK? You've been in here a long time."
"Yes I'm fine, just thinking." She stretched stifling a yawn. "Been sitting here too long, that's all"
"How about some dinner? It's getting late."
"I guess I should--but first---Chakotay, come and sit on the couch with me." She came around the desk and took his hand. "I've been thinking all afternoon and I've come to a decision. I think you have a right to know." She looked away from him but never let go of his hand. "Please don't say anything until I get this out. Unless or until the doctor has results, I know only one thing about this child I'm carrying---it's mine. I can not destroy a defenseless life---this child is mine and come what may---I intend to carry and raise it." She got up and walked across to the view port, her back to him. "Chakotay, you need to know this and make your own decision accordingly. -I don't expect you to say anything now and I will understand--whatever you decide. Whenever you know how you feel about this please, let me know.
"Kathryn." He had come to stand directly behind her and his voice startled her. "Are you finished?" She nodded. "I have been thinking also." He put his hands on her shoulders and turned her around to face him. "Kathryn, if this is my child, I naturally want to be part of it's life. I want to be there to help you raise it." He looked into moist blue eyes. "And Kathryn, if this child in not my biological child--- I want to be part of it's life and to be there to help you raise it--always." His own eyes were moist now also. He brushed a light kiss on her lips and slipping to his knees he kissed her almost flat belly. He took her hands and looked up at her. "Kathryn Janeway, I love you--you are my life and breath, you are the other half of my soul--will you do me the honor of becoming my wife?"
The tears overflowed her eyes as she tugged on his hands to bring him back to his feet. "Chakotay --until I met you I never understood what real love was. I would be honored to be your wife." She kissed him, just as the view screen on her desk lit up.
"Doctor to Captain Janeway."
"Yes doctor, I'm here." She walked over to the screen so he could see her.
"I'm having a problem, Captain."
"What sort of problem, Doctor?" She plopped down behind her desk, suddenly she was very tired.
"I
can't seem to get a clear imprint on the Kamarian DNA." He looked
uncomfortable. "I thought that if you could --narrow down the human
DNA, other than your own of course, than maybe I could match it that way."
Kathryn
burst out laughing. "Sorry, Doctor--it's been a long day. Of
course, Doctor..." She glanced across the room. "Try the Commander."
"Well--yes--I assumed as much--but --one can't assume these things--can one." His discomfort was very uncharististic of the doctor. "Well--I'll get started them--Yes --I'll be in touch---Sickbay out"
Kathryn sat behind the desk in her ready room and laughed until she cried and laughed some more.. Chakotay came and wrapped his arms around her and laughed too.
"Oh gods, Chakotay!" She looked up with wide eyes. "What if our child is green!?" She could barely contain her laughter.
"You're Irish aren't you?" They dissolved into laughter again. "OK--we're both punchy now. Let's get something to eat and some rest." He gently lifted her from her chair placing her on her feet just inside the door.
He
placed an arm around her waist and together they walked out and crossed
to the lift. The members of beta shift watched quietly as the Captain
and Commander crossed the bridge -together- with only a slight nod to acknowledge
the crew --and disappeared into the lift.
It had been a long and very difficult day, Kathryn was exhausted. They ate a light dinner together and Kathryn took a relaxing bath, while Chakotay headed to engineering at the request of the Chief Engineer. She really wanted the Captain, but with a little gentle persuasion she settled for the Commander.
"Well, Commander I'm impressed, -I really wanted the Captain's help, but you did OK--you must be studying in your spare time."
"I have an excellent teacher." He gave her a wink as they continued to study their most recent handiwork.
"Why do I get the feeling you're not talking about me?" He just smiled at her. "How is she? I heard she went to sickbay this morning and then she had to deal with THEM ---God how does she do it?"
"B'Ella can we talk about this in your office?"
"Sure." She led him into her office and closed the door. "Is something wrong with her?"
"Yes and no. B'Ella it's been a hell of a day." He sat across from her desk. "The short version--She's been sick---this morning she finds out she's pregnant, a few hours later she refused to murder the rapist who may be her child's father, sometime after that she agreed to marry me and right now she is resting her exhausted mind and body in a hot bath." He looked up to see his friend gapping at him -eyes wide and mouth wider. “So that is the reason you got me tonight. Close your mouth B'Elanna."
"Oh my god! No wonder she snapped at Tuvok!" She shook her head. "You're getting MARRIED?!---A baby?--oh god--is she gonna--she wouldn't--oh god--Are YOU OK?" She ran around her desk and embraced her friend.
"Yea--I think so." He shook his head and smiled. "I wish the doctor would finish the DNA tests."
"What DNA tests?" She threw up her hands. "Oh gods!"
"On the baby--It won't change anything--we won't do anything differently--it would just be nice to know if it's 100% human or not."
"Human? It could be? ---Human?---YOUR'S?!---OH boy---sit down and tell me--all of it ---from the very beginning--slowly and completely."
"OK, OK -relax-I'll explain." He stated at the beginning and brought B'Elanna current on the things he hadn't had time to discuss with her before now. For her part she was amazed, thrilled, excited and shocked all at once. It took a while--longer than they realized.
"Janeway to Chakotay."
"Chakotay here."
"Commander, how is your engineering project going?"
"All finished, Captain. I'm here in the office with B'Elanna."
"So, Commander am I to understand the problem is solved and you and your friend have been keeping me waiting while you catch up on old times?" She tried to sound mad, but he knew she wasn't.
"Yes, Captain---that appears to be exactly what happened."
"I see. Lieutenant?"
"Yes, Captain--I'm right here."
"Please send him home."
"Yes Ma'am--and Captain--Congratulations."
"Thank you -B'Elanna--Janeway out."
"Looks like you better get going, hen pecked already!"
"What do you mean already? I've been whipped since I first set eyes on her!" He shrugged his shoulders and gave B'Elanna a wink, as he left.
"Chak, I'm really happy for you--and I'll keep my finger crossed for the little Irish one."
"Thanks, B'Ella." And he was gone.
Chakotay entered the Captain's quarters to find the lights dim and complete quiet. He didn't see her at first; she was watching him. When his eyes adjusted, he found her sitting on the pillows under the view port. He joined her.
"You're quiet." He sat next to her and she leaned against him.
"Just thinking. Wish the doctor would hurry up ---or maybe not." She placed a protective hand on her stomach.
"I know." He placed his hand over hers. "It really won't make a difference, but it would be nice to know."
"How did B'Elanna take the news? I assume you told her everything." She wasn't accusing him or in any way upset by that--just took it for granted he would tell her.
"She was shocked." He smiled as he remembered B'Elanna's face. "She's worried about you--she's worried about me and 'the little Irish one'. You know B'Ella she wants to make everything OK."
"It will be. How do you think the crew will react?" She sat up and faced him.
"Didn't you see that today, on the bridge? They have a great deal of respect for you. I think they will react the way you do."
"Today, did you instigate that?"
"No, I didn't have time--even if I had wanted to. It was Tom and Harry who started it, but I'd say it was pretty much spontaneous." He stared into those blue pools, trying to see what she was thinking. "You really don't understand just how special you are---do you?"
"I don't think I'm special--I just do my job, the best way I know how--try to maintain decent standards-- professionally and personally--I don't think that's so different from the rest of you."
"In most cases it isn't --but today--well--no one would have blamed you---or thought any less of you--if you blew those bastards out of the sky. Most of us hoped you would." He took her hands. "I wish I had your strength."
"You are my strength--without you--I would survive, but I certainly wouldn't live. Without you, I'm shallow and empty. I don't think I could have made it these last few years without you."
"You're plenty strong enough on your own, but I hope we never really have to find out." He pulled her into his arms.
"I hope so too." She whispered. "I need some sleep and if either of us wants to be able to move in the morning, I don't think we should sleep on the floor." She got up and offered him a hand.
"Doctor to Captain Janeway."
"Janeway here." She squeezed Chakotay's hand.
"Are you alone? May I speak freely?"
"The Commander is here, you may speak freely, Doctor." Kathryn held her breath; they locked eyes.
"Very well, I have finished my testing--in fact I did it twice, just to be sure--you can't be too sure about these..."
"Doctor---the results?!" Chakotay knew she couldn't wait and hadn't the breath to ask for herself.
"Yes, yes--well Congratulations, Commander, it seems you are going to be a father."
The doctor was waiting for a response on the other end of the comm. link. Kathryn and Chakotay all but forgot he was there. He took her in his arms, completely lifting her off the floor and kissed her until the need for oxygen forced them to break apart. There were tears in both their eyes as relief washed across both their faces.
"Hello---are you still there? Hello, Doctor-Here!!---Oh, yes, thank you doctor--you're quite welcome." The doctor held a conversation with himself.
"Doctor!---Sorry, yes---thank you." She was laughing now.
"Yes, nice to see you remember me--no need to thank me --just doing my job--being taken for granted is an EMH's occupational hazard. Oh Captain, I have sent a hypospray to your replicator for the morning as well as some vitamins---Make sure she takes them Commander. And I will need to examine you more thoroughly very soon--we will need to keep a close watch on you. You will pardon my saying so, but you are a bit old for a first pregnancy."
"She'll take her vitamins and see you tomorrow and thank you, doctor."
"I only did my job--as they say Commander--you did all the work--Sickbay out." He ended the link before they could respond to his last remark.
"I'm a bit OLD!---if I wasn't so happy---not to mention that I now need him---I would reprogram our EMH!" She took his hand again. "Come on daddy--let's get some sleep.
The End.