DISCLAIMER: Star Trek, Star Trek Voyager, and Characters, are property of Paramount. I am not making a profit on this story.
AUTHOR'S NOTE: This story is set right after Voyager's return to the Alpha Quadrant. Background sources used are Voyager T.V. episodes 'Threshold', 'Omega Directives' 'Pathfinder' and 'Think Tank'. Many other episodes have facts taken from them, but the above are the main ones. Especially important is 'Threshold' and 'Think Tank' if you want to do a background search. Other background information for Kathryn Janeway can be found in 'Mosaic.' Other sources are DS9 episode 'Rejoined' and DS9 novels Chapter Six. Any scientific references to genetics is pure creation from my warped brain.
ARCHIVING: Only with the permission of the author.

Distant Echo
By Cygirl1

BOOK TWO

Chapter One

The bronze and black placard on the wall next to her new office door read, 'Admiral K. Janeway'. 'Gods, that was my father's title, I don't think I can get used to hearing that without thinking my father has somehow miraculously appeared…or the former version of my older self'. She had gone by Captain for so many years; it had almost become her official first name. That time and place were now behind her. The present and future were what she had now, a future that was looking pretty good 'Thank you Admiral Janeway.'

She turned her attention to the old-fashioned light gold oak door and pressed down the polished, cool, brass handle to gain admittance. The door and handle was an anachronism from the past, linking that past to the present, showing that power and command remain a constant, even in the here and now. No automatic door or computer chime to announce a visitor. One must have the courage to knock and be granted entrance by the power within. To turn the handle, cross the threshold, and enter into the lion's den, there to be devoured or to bell the beast.

Surveying the interior from the open door, she noted first the large picture window on the back wall, offering a view of San Francisco Bay and the majestic San Francisco Bridge stretching over the harbor like a comet's tail. The Bridge was as much a symbol of this city as were the old antiquated cable cars that had been in service for centuries, still running up and down the hills. It had been rebuilt twice, once in 2024 and again in 2283, after earthquakes toppled much of the structure into the bay below.

Her gaze rested on the soothing shades of muted blues of the carpet and decorative drapes. The walls were bare, waiting for the occupant's choice of art to give the room that personal touch. Decorating and art really were not one of her strong points despite having a bona fide acclaimed artist in the family and herself having taken lessons in art from a holographic Master. She would have to consult with Phoebe on the appropriate 'Admiral' art to hang on the walls. Smirking to herself she thought, 'I will have to stress the 'appropriate', or Phoebe will have my office looking like who knew what….a Risian Pleasure Palace or some nightmarish landscape out of a Klingon's worst, or maybe best, dreams.'

In the back and center of the room, and facing the door, were a lone, light oak desk and a much too big, rich tobacco brown leather chair. She wondered if the pieces were the real McCoy from centuries past and not replicated wood and leather having the same look, feel, and textures. Her mother, ever the Traditionalist, swore she could tell the difference between the natural product and the replicated. "It's the smell," she would proclaim. "That is the one thing that can never be replicated". Her mother and sister had a 'nose' for what were real wood, leather, cloth, and food. To Kathryn, real and replicated all looked, felt, tasted and smelled the same….except of course for Phoebe's coffee, whiskey, and her mother's cooking. Nothing replicated could ever match the taste of those genuine articles.

She entered her office and strode towards her desk and chair, her right hand lightly caressing the desk's surface in passing. Turning the chair towards her, she gracefully slid into it, wiggling her behind a little to get the proper fit. Putting her arms on each armrest, she pushed with her feet to twirl the chair around a few times. 'Hmmm, not a bad fit'. She surveyed the room, twice as large as her ready room on Voyager. 'Rank does have its privileges'. On the left side of the room was a large, rectangular conference table with six small, medium blue, upholstered chairs. Sitting parallel to the table and against the front wall was a small, golden oak bar, its surface graced by several crystal decanters and a rack of crystal glasses. Lifting both eyebrows, she wondered if it was stocked. She would have to check it out later to see if it contained the appropriate 'medicinal' supplies.

She noted the replicator next to the bar and hoped it was programmed so that the coffee was at least drinkable. 'Perhaps I can bribe Phoebe to brew up a pot for me to take to work each day'. Turning her attention to the desk, she noted the stack of PADDs, one set aside and blinking for her immediate attention. Grabbing the PADD, she quickly scanned it for the item of today's briefing: a request from Commander Tokale for additional ships to patrol the area around the Breen sector due to increased and suspicious activity. She had plenty of time to go over the details before today's meeting. Lightly tossing the PADD to one side, she marveled at the size of the desk. 'Gods, this is the size of the pool table at Sandrines and as empty as the deserts on Mars'. The only other object she noted was a communications and computer module. Her bust of Leonardo could go on the right outer edge. In the rest of the space she would place family pictures and pictures of Voyager's crew taken while still in the Delta Quadrant. And, of course, her favorite picture, the one taken a few weeks ago of herself and Seven sitting in the swing on her mother's front porch. Seven dressed in a white poet's shirt and dark linen trousers. She still in her Starfleet Uniform having come back from her 'interrogation' on her command decisions she had made in the Delta Quadrant.

That night had turned out to be a special night, when each said, "I love you" to the other for the first time. Every day since that night they kept saying those three words to each other, and hearing them was still as wonderful and magical as the first time she heard Seven say "I love you". Somehow, she knew that the words would always be magical when Seven said them to her.

Her thoughts traveled back to the Delta Quadrant when she was an Admiral, an Ambassador, and a ship's Captain. That time and that place were literally now light years away. Her eyes turned a pensive, sea gray blue as images, people, and places flashed like a strobe in her thoughts. crewmembers left behind in death, each young face and name forever chiseled into her memory. Harrowing escapes from Vidiians, Hirogens, Borg, and other hostile species. Also, friendlier encounters, where Voyager was received with no hostility and they were able to take much needed respites on the journey home. Encounters that were now light years and decades away. Friends made and left behind but never forgotten: Neelix, Kes, Amelia Earhart, so many others. She brought home to Starfleet new technologies, some stolen from the Borg. She chuckled in amusement. Not only technologies, but she had stolen and kept for herself the Borg Queen's most prized possession, Seven of Nine, the former Tertiary Adjunct of Unimatrix Zero One. This one young woman alone made the journey worthwhile and she would gladly do it all over again just to have her.

She remembered the first time she saw Seven, stepping out of that lone alcove on the Borg cube as 'Tertiary Adjunct of Unimatrix Zero One. She had been intrigued by the young Borg. It was obvious, even with her Borg armor and attachments, that Seven was someone special and not your average mindless drone. No, the Tertiary Adjunct of Unimatrix Zero One had what other Borg lacked: a personality, and the ability to make her own decisions and take her own course of actions. Of course, those decisions were paramount to what was good for the collective. Still, she was no mere automaton. The fact that Seven was born of human parents who were citizens of The Federation, gave Kathryn the needed justification to free her, even if she did have to double-cross the Borg Queen to do it. The Bitch had it coming. How many times had she double-crossed them?

She had felt herself strongly drawn to the young Borg. She had a gnawing desire to see what lay beneath the armor and implants, to delve into Seven's mind to discover what made her so unique. She attributed this desire to her love for 'scientific discoveries', but now, thinking back, she knew that her motivations might not have been so pure. The fact that Seven did not want any part of individuality worried Janeway little. After all Seven could not remember a time when she was not Borg, and Janeway wanted to help her discover that her true nature was human and that being free to follow that nature was more rewarding then having your thoughts directed by the will of the collective. Or, should we say the Queen.

Later, when Seven's armor and most of her implants had been removed, she was stunned by the Borg's cold and austere beauty combined with Borg efficiency and suppression of emotions. Her heart ached, knowing all that this beautiful woman had missed by not having a childhood, loved ones to nurture you, simple things such as birthday parties, climbing trees, playing tag, going to your first dance. She would be Seven's guide back to her humanity. She thrived on their 'philosophical discussions'. Seven's refusal to follow orders that she deemed 'irrelevant' intrigued and invigorated her further, the challenge stimulating her mind and keeping it sharp. So challenging was Seven's rude dismissal of rank and having to follow orders, Janeway's orders that the battle of wills kept her on her toes. Seven was more like a willful adolescent, not quite child and not quite adult, deliberately breaking her parent's rule in a demonstration of independence. And like an adolescent, testing the limits of her power to make decisions and having to reap the consequences, necessary in preparing for adulthood.

She was drawn to Seven as a Ferengi to a vault of latinum. Many a night, after her shift, she would go to cargo bay 2, just to gaze upon the young woman with wonder, and yes, with longing, Seven never aware of her …what...caring? 'Yes, Katie, and more, be honest, she was your obsession'. She would never admit it at the time. She had duties far beyond that of the average Starfleet Captain. She was Seven's Superior, and any relationship, other than friendship, would be perceived as a weakness by her crew. So she lived in hope that some way, somehow she would be free to claim Seven's affections. She now had to admit what she had denied for a long time. She had a most definite proprietary feeling for Seven. Seven was hers; she had fought the Borg Queen and won. Seven was her prize by right of conquest. 'To the victor goes the spoils'. And woe to him, or her, who tried to take that prize from her.

She thought back on that 'Chakotay' business Seven had engaged in and gave a small shudder of abhorrence. 'Gods, the nerve of the man, strolling onto my bridge all smug and smirking, sitting down next to me, and announcing his so-called relationship with 'My Seven of Nine'. It was all she could do not to jump up, smack him up against his head, and knock off those disgusting chicken tracks. Instead, she had put on her best Cheshire cat smile to wish him well. Thinking all the while, 'no way, this is not going to happen'. Some way she would make Seven see sense. She didn't fight the Borg Queen, Ransom, and the Think Tank, to get Seven back to let her 'waste' herself on some phony wooden drugstore Indian.

She had fumed all night long, sleep evading her. She thought of at least thirty different ways she could 'off' the fool to make it look like an accident. Damn, it must be just one of Seven's forays into humanity. I bet you all the coffee in Brazil that Holographic Sawbones, 'The Doctor', is somehow behind this. He is about to get his light bulbs unscrewed for good. Chakotay, what does he see in her. Damn, the jerk had wanted to space her. And all that talk and doom and gloom prophecy that Seven would betray us as it was in her nature. A sudden nauseating thought hit her, 'Good gods, Katie, he is after her body. That is what it is. It has to be. Seven is like a babe in the woods, with Chakotay the big bad wolf. No, make that a horn dog. Bet that's his totem animal. Katie, you have to do something'. That something turned out to be the intervention of Captain Kathryn Janeway's future self, Admiral Janeway.

Chapter Two

They had done it. With the sacrifice made by Admiral Kathryn Janeway, Voyager had made it back to the Alpha Quadrant. After a stunned silence of almost 2 minutes, it finally started to sink in. With tears, cheers, and jubilations, the lost sheep had returned to the fold. Just forty-nine hours to what was home for most and a symbol of Starfleet to all. Terra Firma, Earth, Gaia. Already, Starfleet channels were flooded with messages to loved ones and friends on Voyager. The whole crew was wide awake; many afraid if they closed their eyes and slept, they would wake up and it would have all been a dream, a cruel trick played upon them by a malevolent Delta Quadrant culture, much like a similar incident in the not too far distant past.

Captain Janeway had shut herself up in her ready room, stealing an hour or two of light sleep on their forty-nine hour journey home. This time they were not alone. Flying escort were dozens of Starfleet vessels of all classes, called to rendezvous at the coordinates where Voyager would emerge from the Borg transwarp corridor. Starfleet would take no chances. The Borg would be destroyed as they left the transwarp corridor. Starfleet had stopped the one Borg sphere on Voyager's heels, and the corridor collapsed behind them, sealing off the main doorway to the Alpha Quadrant. This incident would hopefully prevent a Borg incursion for a very long time.

Now Janeway and her command crew, except for B'Elanna Torres-Paris and Tom Paris, in sickbay with their newborn daughter, were aboard Enterprise, as guests of Captain Jean Luc Picard and Admiral Hayes. Introductions were made, and the mood was jovial, except for Seven of Nine, who hated any sort of party gathering, and, oddly enough, Chakotay. He sat in the opposite corner from Seven, his features taciturn and brooding. It was obvious. He was looking everywhere and at everyone with the exception of Seven. 'Trouble in Paradise?' Janeway pondered. 'Now that we are in Federation space, has Seven finally come to her senses?' She would talk to Seven later and find out what happened. For now, she had to stay in her role of the Fearless Captain Janeway, who had brought her small ship and crew home, beating all odds.

Glasses of Chateau Picard were poured and passed around. Many toasts were given to Voyager's return home. Janeway toasted her crew and gave a withering look to Commander Will Riker. "Mr. Riker, I hear you have already been circling my crew, looking for recruits for Enterprise."

Will nodded his head to Janeway, lifting his glass in a salute. "Can you blame me? They are more than likely the best seasoned crew in Starfleet."

Captain Picard, hearing the comment, stated evenly, "The Dominion War left us with thin ranks. The war took a terrible toll of experienced crew and officers. Kathryn, when you get back to Starfleet you will find quite a few commanders and captains not even out of their twenties, and with only enough experience to fly messenger missions in the more secure zones of the Federation."

Janeway looked stricken. "I knew we were hit hard from reading the reports that came through the Midas Array. I had no idea it was that bad."

Admiral Hayes, shaking his head sadly, said, "It was devastating. Your seasoned crew who are in Starfleet can expect promotions and many offers. They will have their pick. Also, Captaincies for your command officers, and their own ships. And you, yourself, Kathryn, can expect your pick of any of the new vessels being built at Utopia Shipyard."

Janeway thought for a moment before inquiring "What about my Maquis crewmen? They served Voyager and Starfleet well, and without them we would not have made it back. I can vouch for Chakotay; he will make an outstanding captain. B'Elanna Torres kept our ship flying on a wing and a prayer. I think she held it together by sheer will power. From what you are telling me Starfleet can ill afford to turn down this opportunity." Admiral Hayes smiled smugly.

"Rest assured, Kathryn, we know a good thing when we see it. With the pardoning of the Maquis there will be no problem in signing on those of the former Maquis who wish it."

Suddenly, Seven's voice was stridently inquiring, "What of me and Icheb? What is Starfleet's plan for us?"

Janeway, glancing over at the young woman, saw that she was no longer seated but standing rigidly, in her customary Borg pose she took when upset. Her now glacier blue eyes were boring into Admiral Hayes' eyes with the intensity of a laser set on kill. Janeway drew in a sharp breath. "Seven, let me handle this, I'm sure…..."

Seven had turned that laser gaze onto Janeway. "No, Captain. Both you and I know that Starfleet has made a decision on what disposition to take in regard to the future of myself and Icheb." Turning her attention back to the Admiral, "It would be inefficient for Starfleet not to have done so. Am I not correct, Admiral?"

Admiral Hayes cleared his throat and donned what he hoped was an appeasing smile. "Annika Hanson, is it…may I call you Annika?"

Seven, still in her 'Ice Queen' mode, answered frostily, "You may not. I prefer you refer to me as Seven of Nine".

Janeway stifled her guffaw. 'And that is Ms. Seven of Nine, Tertiary Adjunct of Unimatrix Zero One to you, windbag.'

Admiral Hayes conceded with a nod. "Seven of Nine, you and the other b…young boy have nothing to worry about. We are aware of the special situation that both you and the boy are in and will do our best to help both of you to acclimate to society. Starting the day we get back to earth, Starfleet will take custody and responsibility for the care of both of you and guarantee your safety and well being."

"We will not comply."

Janeway quickly read between the lines of Admiral Hayes' comments and came to a quick conclusion. Seven and Icheb would be taken into Starfleet custody for other, less than honest, reasons. "Admiral Hayes, with all due respect, you can't mean that. Seven has family she has not seen since she was a very small child…An aunt, grandparents, and cousins who are eagerly awaiting her return. She has family she needs to connect with and them with her. Both she and Icheb are no longer Borg nor are they part of the collective. I assure you, Admiral, Starfleet intervention will do more harm then good. If there are concerns, I will vouch for them both. Tuvok has legal guardianship of the boy, granted to him by the Vulcan Embassy through his several contacts with them through the Midas Array."

Will Riker amusedly interrupted, "This entitles him, according to Vulcan law, to all the rights and privileges of a Vulcan citizen".

Captain Picard interceded. "Seven is a full citizen of the Federation with all its rights and privileges. In addition, Starfleet has no jurisdiction, as she is not Starfleet. Federation law plainly states that Starfleet can only take a citizen into custody if that citizen poses a threat to the Federation or its allies. I have talked to Seven, in part to gage if she was a danger to the Federation, and have concluded that she poses no threat. We should give her the honor and acclamations she deserves for saving Voyager from destruction on many occasions. Without her, Voyager would never have made it home." Captain Picard looked at Janeway and continued, "Captain Janeway knows Seven better then anyone, and it is my strong recommendation that Captain Janeway be appointed to temporary guardianship until this situation is concluded. I will go to any hearing the Federation or Starfleet may deem necessary and testify that Seven is not a threat." Picard, staring hard at Admiral Hayes, added, "After all, Admiral, I am an expert on individuals severed from the Borg."

Seven dipped her head and shoulders slightly in deference. "Thank you, Captain Picard."

"You are more than welcome, Seven."

Admiral Hayes cleared his throat and conceded. "Why yes, I think that is an excellent idea, Captain Picard, and I am sure, after I explain it to Starfleet, they will agree."

Janeway could not help but think that Admiral Hayes would tell them Starfleet's plan could very well explode in their faces. It would not hurt to throw them a bone. "I am sure, at some date in the near future, Seven will agree to tell Starfleet everything she knows about the Borg." She gave Seven a force ten stare and hoped Seven would agree.

Seven looked slightly amused at Janeway but conceded. "Acceptable Captain."

The subject was put aside, and the conversation turned to other topics.

After the gathering on Enterprise, Janeway and her officers beamed back aboard Voyager. Leaving the transporter room, Janeway placed her hand on Seven's shoulder to gain her attention. "Seven, I would like to discuss a few things with you. Please accompany me to my quarters."

"Yes, Captain."

Both women kept silent on the way to Janeway's quarters. Once there, Janeway immediately ordered coffee, black. "Anything to drink for you, Seven?" J

anyway expected Seven's usual reply of 'I require no liquid refreshment at this time' and was surprised when Seven answered, "Thank you, Captain. Hot Earl Gray tea please."

"One cup of Earl Gray tea, hot." Handing Seven the tea, Janeway inquired, "Seven, I didn't know you liked tea".

Seven, taking the cup from Janeway, stated, "Captain Picard offered me a cup, and I accepted. I find that I appreciate the taste."

Janeway slightly smiled. "I didn't know that you and Captain Picard had met earlier".

"You were otherwise occupied, Captain, with preparing final reports to give to Starfleet. He asked Chakotay's permission for me to beam over for a discussion".

Janeway smiled. "You like Captain Picard, don't you?"

"I find him…. interesting. I knew him as Locutus of the Borg. I was curious to see how well he has adjusted to being severed from the collective."

"Do you mind my asking what you discussed?"

"No, Captain. He inquired how well I have adjusted to severance from the collective. I informed him it was difficult at first, but that I have adapted. He also inquired if I wished to return to the Borg. I informed him that was not my wish, that I was now an individual free to my own thoughts and actions, that I now thought the Borg flawed, in that perfection could not be achieved by suppressing freewill or thought."

Janeway nodded in acknowledgement and sat on the sofa, leaning back into the cushions. "Seven, have a seat." She indicated with her head a place next to her on the sofa. She was surprised when Seven complied. Any other time it would have been, "I prefer to stand". 'The Doctor's lessons on etiquette must be working.' Janeway took a sip of her coffee and carefully placed the cup on the coffee table. Turning herself in Seven's direction, she studied the young woman for a few seconds. Seven looked back at her inquiringly. "Seven, I'm sorry about the situation Starfleet Command has put you in. I want you to know part of my reason for accepting any guardianship role is for your own protection and not because I do not trust you or think you aren't capable of looking out for yourself. I feel that you don't need a guardian and Starfleet is over reacting. But this will give me a legal reason to intervene on your behalf should things get sticky."

Seven frowned. "They do not trust me, Captain. They fear the Borg, and for all intents and purposes I represent what they fear."

Janeway moved a little closer to Seven. "Truthfully, Seven, I had no idea Starfleet would react this way. I can only surmise that the recent conflict with the Dominion has everyone extra cautious and, frankly, a little paranoid. I'm sure they read my logs that contained reports on how well you served Voyager, putting the crew's interest and safety before your own. When we get back to earth, I want you to know that I'm obtaining civilian legal counsel for you".

Seven inclined her head. "I will accede to your wishes if you surmise that course is required, Captain."

"I believe in preparing for all possibilities, Seven."

Seven had a slight turn-up at the corners of her mouth. "Indeed."

Janeway put her right elbow on the back cushions and leaned her head into her right palm. "Seven, have any of your relatives contacted you?"

"My Aunt Irene Hansen has contacted me and stated that she has a room all prepared for me at her home."

"That's good, Seven". Seven frowned slightly.

"It is not. I do not wish to stay with her".

Janeway drew her head up from her palm. "Why, Seven?"

"She has indicated that I have grandparents, aunts and uncles, and many more relatives who wish to meet me and that there will be…. plenty of family gatherings to attend. I find that I am apprehensive. I do not know these 'relatives."

"Seven, I can understand being apprehensive and uncomfortable with people you really don't know, but you're their only link to your parents. After all, Seven, they lost a son and a daughter whom they loved very much."

"They will ask questions. Questions I prefer not to discuss. Questions that will cause me pain."

Janeway slid over, placed her arms around Seven, and hugged her close. "Oh, Seven, I do understand. I don't look forward to talking to the loved ones of my crew who died. It's very painful. However, I owe them that much. It's painful for them, also, Seven. They need these ghosts put to rest so that they may have closure and go on with their lives."

Seven swallowed hard, her right eye tearing up. "I do not know what to tell them."

"Tell them the truth, Seven. Your parents were assimilated by the Borg, and it's not known for sure if they are still live."

"Do I inform them that I saw my father as a Borg drone and that the Borg ship he was on was destroyed?"

"Seven, you don't know if he died on that ship. Tell them only that their fate is unknown. This is the truth."

Janeway was somewhat surprised that Seven turned into her embrace and returned her hug, pressing her breast against Janeway's, and saying, almost in a whisper and close to her ear, "Thank you, Captain, I will visit my aunt".

Seven pulled back and Janeway released her hold, feeling a little breathless and stimulated by the soft breath caressing her ear. 'Wow, Katie. Right. That was only a hug of thanks, nothing more, even if your hands are tingling.'

Janeway took her last swallow of coffee, more to have time to get her thoughts under control than to frame her next questions. 'What are you waiting for; you're not going to find out unless you ask.' "Are you going to stay with Chakotay after your visit to your aunt's?"

Seven looked at her pointedly. "Why should I?"

"Well, Seven, you are seeing him in a romantic way, are you not?"

Seven coldly replied. "No, I have terminated my relationship with the Commander."

'Oh my, Commander is it?' "What happened, Seven?"

"I came to the conclusion that any relationship with the Commander would not be productive. We have no common interest. He did not elicit in me any significant emotional or physical response. I found him to be unsatisfactory as a potential mate."

'Hoh boy'. "I assume you informed him of this."

"I did."

"What was his reaction?"

"He tried to persuade me that I was mistaken, that I needed to give our relationship more time. I informed him that more time was futile. He became angry and accused me of …playing with his affections, and reminded me that it was I who pursued him. I apologized for my miscalculation in judgment. He told me to give him a chance to prove that I was mistaken. It is his belief that if I…. 'sleep' with him…that is a euphemism for copulation…"

"I know what it means, Seven." It was all Janeway could do to hold back her ire towards her first officer. "What next occurred, Seven?"

"I informed him that I had no physical attraction for him and the act of copulation would not change my decision. He put his hands on my shoulders and forcefully tried to kiss me. I pushed him into the bulkhead, and he fell to the deck. As I departed, he called me a bitch and a Dyke. I failed to see why he called me a term used to designate a female canine. I was unfamiliar with the term 'Dyke'. Later I researched the term and found Dyke to designate…"

"I know what it means, Seven, and he should not have used either term."

"I believe he must have struck his head when I pushed him into the bulk head and became temporarily disoriented when he referred to me as a bitch. However, his second designation in addressing me is accurate, though I think his intention was to use Dyke in a derogatory manner. The term is often meant to be offensive, and is used as a crude epithet to describe a female who has sexual attraction for other females. The correct word would be lesbian."

Janeway felt her mind go numb for a second. 'Great Gods Katie.' "Oh, I, uhm…are you sure you're a lesbian, Seven?"

"I am positive, Captain."

Janeway felt hot and cold then hot again.

"Then… why all this….interest in dating Chakotay?"

"In my interaction with The Doctor on dating, he had me study information that he downloaded. This information pertained only to heterosexual relationships. I had only observed mating behavior between a male and a female; Lieutenant Paris and Lieutenant Torres. I had not thought to analyze my attraction to females in the context of choosing a mate. I now realize that I had erred. I researched the word Dyke that the Commander utilized in trying to insult me. This led me to a further study of female homosexuality. I have concluded that my attraction and interest in humanoid females is within the scope of normal humanoid sexual behaviors and is found to have a genetic base. I then accessed my cortical node and discovered that male and female homosexuality is found in 99.6 percent of the species known to the Borg. Those that do not have instances of male or female homosexuality are often those that are hermaphroditic, or those species that have more than two sexes. The highest percentage of lesbianism is found in Species 406, the Anatolians, consisting of 89.643 percent of the female population. The lowest percentage occurs among Cardasians at only 6 percent. I also ….."

Janeway, coming out of her temporary shock, interrupted. "OK, Seven, I get the picture." 'Boy and how I get the picture, Seven dressed in a black negl…don't go there, Katie, this is not the time to visit that little scenario.' "Well, Seven, this is….a surprise"

"Indeed."

Beepblip. 'Damn, I should have put a privacy lock on the communicator' "Captain Janeway."

"Captain, I received a message from Starfleet Command wishing a conference with you in 10 minutes."

"Thank you, Mr. Kim. I will be in my ready room, route it there please, Janeway out."

"Aye, Captain."

"Seven, I want you to know that after your visit with your aunt, you are welcome to come and stay with me anytime and for as long as you want. I will be staying at Mom's the next seven months until the rent agreement with the tenant now residing in my apartment has expired. Mom won't mind, in fact I'm sure she will enjoy having someone to discuss the latest mathematical theories with, and I understand that you're learning to cook. She could never get me or Phoebe interested. I think she would enjoy teaching you.

We also need to decide where to locate your alcove. Icheb's is going to the Vulcan Embassy. When are you due for your next regeneration?"

"I am overdue by 22 hours 3mins and 32 seconds."

Janeway tried her best force 10 stare, but since this was not a severe transgression, she only managed a force 5. "Seven, I'm ordering you to go and regenerate now; we don't know how long it will take to have your alcove ready".

"Very well, I will regenerate. In the future, I may no longer depend on my alcove for energy. I am now starting to ingest more solid nutrients, and have been able to initiate short periods of sleep. As time passes, and with increased ability to digest solids and sleep longer hours, I will be able to eventually go without regeneration."

"My, Seven, this is news, I didn't know you had progressed that far. What brought this on?"

"I think it will be more efficient. Regeneration does require a great amount of space and energy. I also find that I enjoy the flavors of many different 'foods' and 'beverages'."

Janeway, smiling, replied, "I will have Mom prepare some of her special dishes for you. I think you will enjoy them. I know I will after seven years of replicated food and Neelix's cooking."

Seven lifted the implant over her left eye. "I would enjoy that, Captain."

Janeway gave a pleased smile. "Now, I have a meeting to attend, and we will discuss your alcove later."

Janeway and Seven stood up at the same time. "Thank you, Captain."

Janeway, on impulse, reached out to the young woman and gave her a quick hug. "You're very welcome, Seven." Seven gave a slight smile, and both women left Janeway's quarters.

Chapter Three

Voyager had arrived at McKinley station 3 hours ago. Janeway felt drained and melancholy, mainly due to getting very little sleep or rest and being immediately sequestered by Starfleet Security and Admirals Paris and Sylvanus. It was a joy to meet with Admiral Paris again. He had been one of her father's staunchest friends, and Janeway and he had gone through a lot together, including capture by the Cardassians. Admiral Sylvanus was another matter. He was just barely cordial and appraised Janeway with shrewd brown eyes that looked as though they had x-ray vision. His reason for his behavior was soon apparent. Seven of Nine, Tertiary Adjunct of Unimatrix Zero One. It was his and Admiral Nechayev's idea that Seven and Icheb be taken into custody as soon as Voyager docked at McKinley Station. That Admiral Paris, Admiral Ross, and Admiral T'Benak thwarted his wishes made him set against giving Janeway an easy time. "I hear you persuaded Captain Picard to interfe…intercede on behalf of the Borgs aboard Voyager."

Janeway clenched her teeth before replying, her voice lowered and almost coming out in a growl. "On the contrary Admiral, Captain Picard graciously interceded on his own. I did not ask him to do so, nor did Seven of Nine. He did so only after concluding that Seven was no longer Borg or a threat to Starfleet. After all, who else would know a former Borg better than Captain Picard, who has more experience than anyone you could find in Starfleet Command."

He stared hard at her, but Janeway did not flinch. He was a fluffy tribble next to some of the beings she had had the pleasure to butt heads with in the Delta Quadrant.

Admiral Paris, ever the peacemaker, came to Janeway's and Seven's defense. "Now, Randall, this is not the time to go into this matter. Who better than Captain Janeway and Captain Picard to ensure us that Seven of Nine represents no threat to the Federation. Kathryn has already signed the paperwork and was granted legal guardianship of Seven of Nine, and the boy is in the guardianship of Lieutenant Tuvok and under the protection of the Vulcan Embassy. We do not need to bring this up now. Captain Janeway has not even been home yet. This can wait. This should be a time of congratulations for a job well done."

Admiral Sylvanus' chocolate brown face looked even darker as he sarcastically replied, "As for a job well done, that remains to be seen at the debriefings and hearings."

With that, he got up from his chair and curtly nodded his head at both Kathryn and Admiral Paris. "Admiral, Captain, I have staff to consult before Voyager's departure for earth." He then turned smartly and walked away.

After his departure, they talked of other subjects relating to the possible time schedule for debriefings of captain and crew. They agreed that these would not take place until the crew had a much-needed respite of two weeks to see family and wind down. Janeway was not as fortunate, only getting a week before she had to go for debriefing and hearings. Admiral Paris assured her that she was in no danger of a court martial for any of the tenets of the Prime Directive she may have broken. From what he read, it was only on very few occasions, and circumstances dictated the necessity. She might get a slap on the wrist, but overall she had demonstrated an outstanding ability to make the correct command decisions in often dire circumstances. Admiral Paris informed her of the reception waiting for them on earth. Voyager was to do a flyover of the San Francisco Bridge and touch down at a selected spot on Starfleet Headquarters' parade ground. They would disembark and be escorted to a room at Starfleet Headquarters for a small party for crew members and their families. Later, Starfleet would host a more formal welcome home party. Those crewmembers that had no family, such as the former Maquis, would have Starfleet personnel assigned to them. Those Maquis from other planets, such as Bolia and Bajor, would have the respective representatives from their embassies to assist them. "Go get some sleep Kathryn; it will be a long, long day tomorrow."

She rested her forehead tiredly against the clear aluminum window in the living room of her quarters. Feeling the cold from the pane gave some slight release to the headache she had developed. She closed her eyes against the bright blue and green orb of Earth. She shuddered slightly from fatigue and stress. As much as Admiral Paris tried to convince her all would be well, she knew from experiences as the daughter of an Admiral, and later as a Starfleet Officer herself, there would be some problems. That was the nature of the beast. The decisions she made in the Delta Quadrant would affect her career in some way, she was positive of that. Either for good or ill. Starfleet might be an old institution, and things might seem to move slowly at times, but change did happen. And sometimes faster than warp nine. There was not only her future to think about, but also that of some of her crew, and especially Seven of Nine. She felt both a heated anger at Starfleet and a cold fear grip her.

She would protect Seven. It was not only her duty but also her desire to do so. She had faced down the Borg Queen for Seven. She would not be alone this time, with only a few close friends to assist her. She had her family. Her mother was a formidable force, and, having been the wife of an Admiral, she had good insight into the workings of Starfleet, its laws, and how the political machine worked. She also knew how to use this insight. Her mother had hinted once that she knew things that current Admirals would resign over if certain information were ever leaked. Her mother would never use blackmail for personal gain, but Janeway had no doubt that she would use whatever means necessary to protect her daughters and the people they loved. The people she, Kathryn, loved. And Seven was foremost. 'And you do love her, Katie. You will no longer be her captain. You have no excuse now, Katie, claim her before some other woman does.' Janeway had a feeling that Seven would not be averse to her attention. She believed the young woman did harbor feelings beyond friendship for her, and she was certain Seven did not think of her as a motherly figure. It was in the way Seven challenged her, sought her out for their philosophical discussions, even the way her eyes would soften when looking at her and that luscious mouth slightly part. Probably the way Kathryn herself looked at Seven.

The age difference was a little over 14 years; nothing when one considered the human life span was around 127 years. Seven, in many ways, was older then anyone she knew, from having been assimilated by the Borg and having the memories from thousands of species. She no longer thought of Seven as a child or innocent. Though she might be inexperienced in love or in knowing how to express emotions adequately, that did not mean she was unaware of her feelings and emotions. And Seven could be single-minded and relentless in her quest for what she wanted. Janeway hoped she was what Seven wanted. .

To be honest, she wasn't really surprised that Seven was sexually and romantically attracted to women. She had sensed it from early in Seven's arrival on Voyager. The old adage of "It takes one to know one" was generally true. Though there was no scientific proof that homosexuals had some built-in extra sense to detect this in someone they had just met, neither could it be disputed. Janeway found that her extra sense was right the majority of the time, and she had only a genetic 7/12 for homosexuality. A person's sexuality or sexual orientation was viewed as normal in the majority of Federation member worlds. Geneticists had speculated for years that homosexuality was determined genetically. Dr. Yong Ming had discovered the genes at the close of the 21st century. By that time the old stigma and taboos were mainly gone except for certain religious beliefs held over from the Dark Ages. It was not just one gene but 24 that, when joined in varying combinations, ran the gamut from mild attraction to the same sex to 100 attraction to the same sex. Both her and Phoebe's genetic combination was at a 7/12, indicating that their strongest attraction would be to women. A 12 would result in a 100 attraction to the same sex a 1 only a slight interest in pairing with the same sex. She never asked what her parents' quotient was. This set of 24 genes was not found in all the population, thus providing the largest group to be heterosexual exclusively.

Janeway had known many women and men who were more than likely at 6/12 and above, though one seldom thought of factoring in the combinations if two people of the same sex were attracted to each other. It was assumed that they were at least 6/12 or above.

She had had a torrid love affair with another woman while at the Academy and even a few casual liaisons. She felt a stronger attraction to women than to men. However, at that time she had liked to think that it was the person, and not the gender. Her relationship with Justin, she realized not too many years ago, was not so much from a strong attraction to him, but because her father had really liked Justin and was pleased that they were involved. He had almost thought of him as a son. She was always seeking her father's approval and had been afraid to disappoint him if she decided to end her involvement with Justin.

She did love Justin, but was not in love with him. He was supportive of her goals, an adequate and considerate lover, good looking, intelligent, and they had many similar interests and got along well. But, there was not that deep emotional and passionate bond she found with women. At the time, she was very focused on her career goals and found relationships with women too distracting. She feared the intensity of her passion would be her undoing. If she should meet the right woman, she could easily lose sight of her goals. Men were emotionally safer. Looking back, she realized that in the long run it would not have worked with Justin or even Mark.

Mark was more a friend then a lover. He was comfortable to be around. He was not inspiring or exciting but…just comforting. At the time of her engagement to him, she had her career as a Starfleet captain to add passion and excitement to her life. At that time, it was enough. Mark was just like a comfortable armchair you fell into when you came home, all done in and worn out from all of the excitement, and you didn't fear falling too deeply. Also, she didn't have to invest a lot of energy in a relationship with a man. Energy she had devoted entirely to her career. At that time her passion was for Space, discovery and of course, career. That had been then. Now, she was ready for something more in her life than just Starfleet. Seven years in the Delta Quadrant had given her all the discoveries and excitement she could process.

She was tired of always being in command and in control. She wanted, no, needed, someone to nourish the woman beneath the accouterments of command. To connect with in both a spiritual and emotional way. She wanted passion, wanted to be consumed by it. She wanted to give love and to be loved. She wanted someone who shared a love of science and learning. She also wanted the house, the picket fence, two dogs in the yard, and a lover to keep her warm at night. Maybe not the actual house and fence, but what they represented. A place to nest and a mate to share it with. She wanted Seven of Nine. She knew that Seven would fill her heart and soul to overflowing; would give her passion and the all-consuming love that only a woman could give her. Seven had a love of many of the same things she did. That she knew. Not that attraction and love were based solely on common interest. There were many relationships built on the 'opposites attract' theory, and they worked. But the couple involved usually had the same core values. Janeway wasn't going to sit back and wait for Seven to approach her; she would take the initiative. She would court Seven, wine and dine her, bring her flowers, and show Seven just how important the young woman was in her life, and make her see that she, Kathryn Janeway, was all that Seven needed. She had no more excuses; she was no longer Seven's captain. The only Captaincy Kathryn Janeway wanted with Seven of Nine, was to be the Captain of her heart. That was the one command Kathryn Janeway was prepared to fight for, and win. She could be relentless in her pursuit; she could be like a force of nature, a tornado or tidal wave. Unstoppable.

Janeway felt energized after managing to grab 6 hours of much needed sleep. She also knew that the adrenaline rush of finally being able to set foot on her home world was partly the cause for her high energy. Before entering the Bridge for, perhaps, her final journey on Voyager, Janeway had contacted her mother just to update her on their arrival schedule and to ask permission to place Seven's alcove in the guest bedroom if needed. "Of course Kathryn, I'm eager to meet Seven. Your recent correspondences have me intrigued. From what you said in the communication packets you sent, she is a remarkable young woman."

Janeway smiled. "That she is, Mother. I'm sure you and she will get along very well. You'll have someone with whom to discuss mathematical theories, and since she has taken up cooking as a hobby, you'll have someone you can share your recipes with."

Gretchen had a somewhat smug and knowing smile on her face. "She is welcome to stay as long as she likes, Kathryn."

Janeway let out a small breath of relief. "Thank you, Mother. Can you do me another favor, Mom…Seven's aunt, Irene Hansen, is meeting her when we disembark. Would you and Phoebe meet with Ms. Hansen and stay with her while all this is going on. Seven tells me she comes from a very small village in Sweden. Starfleet headquarters and grounds are probably many times larger then the village".

Gretchen smiled. "Send me her call numbers and I will contact her. We can have her transport in at the station here and pick her up. Also, she and Seven should stay with us that night as the hour will be late when the celebrating is through, and she will more than likely be exhausted due to the time differential."

"Thank you, Mom, I will send the information you need." Janeway sighed a little and her face sobered. "I missed you, Mom. I even missed that reprobate sister of mine; I can't wait to see both of you in the flesh."

"Oh, Kathryn, it's like a miracle. You know I never really gave up hope. I always had the feeling that you were alive. I think if you had died, I would have known somehow".

Janeway smiled. "Well, I'm very much alive and plan to stick around for a long time...if I can survive the welcoming ceremony, and the debriefing and review boards."

Gretchen laughingly joked, "The debriefing and the review board will seem like a walk in the park compared to sitting through all the official interviews with the press and the award presentations you will have to attend in the coming days. I know how you hate to sit through speeches, but I'm warning you now, Kathryn, you better prepare yourself".

Janeway groaned. "Mother, you're not helping matters; I might as well get back on Voyager and look for another Caretaker Array to take me back to the Delta Quadrant."

Gretchen's face sobered for a moment. "This is a very big event throughout the Federation, Kathryn. Everyone who is anyone wants to horn in on the events. Any embassy who has a member of their species on your ship wants a piece of the action, so to speak. Your arrival and the ceremonies afterwards will be broadcast all over the Federation. Fortunately, the party tonight is informal and for your crewmembers and their families... and of course a few Admirals have to make an appearance. But don't worry too much, Kathryn; the list of speakers tonight is limited to Admirals Paris, Ross, and Hayes."

Janeway groaned again. "Not Admiral Hayes. We will be there forever, and at the same time be bored out of our gourds. You are just cruel, Mother, Phoebe has corrupted you."

"Dear, I think it is the other way around. I won't tease you any more."

Janeway snorted. "Well, the main thing is my crew will be reunited with family and friends. Even those who have no family, or whose families are too far away to make it in time, will have representatives from their home worlds to greet and escort them while here on earth. Well, Mom…..guess I better sign off and make sure everything is shipshape before leaving McKinley and returning home."

"I have to get ready for tonight's shindig myself….Kathryn, I want you to know, I love you and will be there for you during the coming few weeks…and for as long as you like."

"I know you will, Mom…I love you too, see you in a few hours."

Janeway swallowed hard, trying to squelch the ache in her throat and jaws from holding back the tears. She stood and straightened her uniform, now outdated. But the crew had decided to wear them one last time, partly because of pride in their accomplishments achieved while wearing the now obsolete style. Also, because they would stand out from the rest of Starfleet who would attend…it would mark them as special…having done the impossible. The old uniform forever would remain in their memories as their badge of honor. Composing herself and wearing her command mask, Captain Kathryn Janeway exited the ready room and stepped onto her Bridge.

"Report"! Janeway barked out, as she gingerly stepped down the two steps to the bridge and slid into her command chair. Chakotay was already seated in his first officer's chair on her left.

"All stations secure, Captain." Reported Tuvok.

Janeway acknowledged his announcement with a small nod. "Mr. Kim, contact McKinley control for the 'all clear'. Mr. Paris, prepare to disengage the holding locks at my mark and slowly take us out the bay doors at impulse speed…maintain that speed until otherwise notified."

"Aye, Captain."

Harry Kim announced, "All clear, Captain."

"Mark."

No sound of the locks were heard disengaging from the docking area of McKinley Station, nor was any momentum or movement felt as Voyager slipped out of the dock and turned to head out the bay doors, but that didn't stop many from imagining that they felt it. After seven years on one vessel, you became attuned to every little minute change in sound and vibration. Voyager slid, silent and ghostly, out of the bay doors, her bow pointed towards earth. All eyes on every deck turned towards the view screens and the remarkable sight of earth shining green and blue in the blackness of space, an oasis in the desert of almost each and every waking thought in their long, long, journey home.

"Mr. Kim, open all ship wide communication and view screens".

"Ship wide communications and screens opened, Captain."

Captain Janeway stood up from her chair and, standing in front of the main view screen, began talking, her face sincere and a bit of sadness around the eyes. "This is your Captain speaking. I have thought long and hard of the words I would say on this momentous day. Somehow, the words I had planned have eluded me. I'm now speaking straight from my heart. You are, without doubt, the finest crew in the Federation. You have persevered through insurmountable odds and kept fighting, even when it seemed hopeless. We were alone in the Delta Quadrant with no Starfleet or Federation to depend on when we desperately needed help and no allies to give us shelter. No one to depend on but each other; no one to trust but each other. I trusted in each one of you to come through and bring us home, and you showed me that my trust was not misplaced. This ship did not bring us back to our homes….each and every one of you brought us home. I am so very proud of each of you. I will look back on these days and know that this was, without a doubt, the finest crew I ever had the privilege to serve with. You have made history, and for generations to come young cadets in Starfleet and our descendants all over the Federation and beyond will study and read of the odyssey of our little ship and her valiant crew, and marvel. It will be said in future generations that we were heroes and that our like is seldom seen. Godspeed, and good fortune attend you through whatever the future holds for you. Janeway out." Janeway motioned to Harry Kim to cut communications.

There was silence on the bridge for a few long seconds, the inward reflection showing on the faces of her Alpha crew as they digested the Captain's speech. Tom Paris, turning his seat and his head slightly, broke the moment. "Captain, it has been an honor. I can't express my thanks enough that you gave me a chance to….prove myself worthy of wearing this uniform. I know B'Elanna feels the same way. Miral couldn't have a better Godmother."

Janeway's lips curled up slightly on the corners. "Thank you, Tom; you should be proud of your service to this ship. You exceeded my expectations. I am proud of you, proud of you all." Her glance fell on Seven, standing at her station but now with her head turned to her left and looking back at Janeway with eyes that, instead of their usual frosty blue, seemed to radiate a warm heat. Janeway felt her breath catch for a second, and then let it out, with only a slight inclination of her head in acknowledgement. Seven returned the nod, a small smile caught in the corners of her lips.

Janeway had noted earlier, when entering the Bridge and doing a quick survey, . That the young woman did not have her usual biosuit on. Now she was able to study her for a few moments, noticing that her hair was down and pulled into a ponytail at the base of her neck, somewhat softening her austere look. She noted Seven was dressed not in her biosuit but in a stylish pair of dark blue linen trousers and a lighter blue V-neck light wool sweater. She was not looking as imposingly tall as she normally did, and Janeway saw that she had traded those ridiculous high-heeled shoes she normally wore for a pair of flat-soled black boots. Janeway liked the look. It made Seven appear more comfortable with herself and more approachable. 'Approachable to whom, Katie?' .

Tuvok's voice brought her attention back to the Bridge. "Captain, we have picked up an escort. I am detecting the presence of 32 Academy single pilot Stingers off the port and starboard side. They are from the Red, Blue, Green, and White squadrons. Also, fallen in behind us are the Enterprise, Tallahassee, Shenandoah, and 28 vessels of other classifications."

"Put the aft, port and starboard views on all screens for 60 seconds, Tuvok, then return the screens to our view of home."

"Yes, Captain."

"That's quite an escort, Kathryn", Chakotay noted.

"Yes it is, Chakotay." 'I'll be damned if I will use his title if he won't use mine. I can't say I'll miss him, but I do wish him luck, just not where Seven is concerned.' Janeway gave a small derisive snort. 'Not a chance, not even if he went through a sex change.. 'yuck'. She mentally shuddered, trying to rid that image from her mind.

"Captain, we are entering earth's upper atmosphere", reported Harry Kim.

"Tuvok, raise shields."

"Shields raised, Captain."

The screen filled with a view of the African Continent, the sun already at mid morning. Voyager continued eastward, passing over India, then Indo-china, over the Pacific, descending into the shadow of night ahead, racing away from the sun. "Keep her steady, Tom". The sky above them was studded with stars, and below them the night was swallowed up by the yawning, seeming void of the great Pacific Ocean. Rising in the east was a dim glow, a false dawn, blanketing the continent of North America, growing ever brighter: the lights from America's towns and cities guiding Voyager home. Then they were there, San Francisco, the center of the universe, for the Federation and Starfleet. Ensign Kim, trying to keep the tears out of his voice, "Captain, all air space has been cleared for Voyager's flight pattern".

Janeway, a lilt to her voice, said, "She's all yours, Mr. Paris, just don't hit the Bridge".

"Yes, ma'am."

Janeway smiled at the 'ma'am'. 'I guess this could count for crunch time'.

Voyager swooped low and headed towards the San Francisco Bridge, stretched across the bay, the lights along her span stirring a memory for Janeway of a spider's web stretched between two green stalks of corn in the field next to her Indiana home, dew caught on the strands of web, reflecting the rays of the rising sun, each drop a sparkling diamond. "One more pass over the bridge, Tom, and put her down between the marker lights on Starfleet's parade ground." Voyager descended slower and slower until she hovered over the field as a hummingbird and lightly landed. Home.

Chapter Four

Captain Janeway and the Bridge crew were still on Voyager after all the other crewmembers had disembarked in small groups down Voyager's long gangplank, which was located under the saucer section, and into the waiting arms of their family and friends. An area around Voyager had been cordoned off, and only family allowed within the inside perimeter. The public and press were kept outside. After the tears, hugs, embraces, and back slaps from old friends, dozens of Starfleet Security personnel surrounded the groups and escorted the crew and families to waiting land vehicles for their short trip to Starfleet's largest meeting and banqueting area for an informal party and welcome home speeches. Security remained outside the ship to keep souvenir seekers, the curious, and the press away. Starfleet had also sent in a detachment of technicians and other Starfleet personnel to board the ship to begin a systems check and a shakedown. Among this group were Starfleet's top security experts, who undoubtedly were there to investigate, and perhaps, confiscate, the Borg alcoves in Cargo Bay 2. As Seven would say, this proved to be 'futile'. Kathryn had already transported both Seven's and Icheb's alcoves to a small Vulcan Ambassadorial ship berthed nearby at McKinley Station. One that just happened to leave Mars a few hours before Voyager's arrival at McKinley station, and just happened to have developed some sort of warp equalizer flux problem that needed to be repaired before it reached it's final destination at the Vulcan Embassy in San Francisco. Seven's alcove would be moved later to a location that would be safe and convenient for her. Janeway was still unsure how long Seven would visit her relatives and was a little apprehensive that she might not take her up on her on her invitation.

"All Personnel have disembarked, Captain, and a Captain Frazier has requested permission to board Voyager with his teams to do the required shakedown."

"Tuvok, have him wait a few minutes until we have all disembarked."

"Very well, Captain."

All eyes were on Janeway as they waited to be dismissed. She stood up and cleared her throat, which for some reason felt tight and closed. Looking for a few seconds at each member of the Alpha shift Bridge crew, she said, "I want you to know I have enjoyed working with you through these seven years". Then glancing at Seven added, "And the past four years." Returning her attention back to her bridge crew, she continued, "You have become my family. For seven years I have sat in this chair with you beside me. I know I was hard on you, but believe me, I didn't give you anything that you couldn't handle, and you came through with flying colors. Many of you will go on to continue your careers with Starfleet. I have already put in the paper work for promotions for each of you. Believe me, you earned it. If the time comes that I have another ship, you will be the first I call, but before that happens, I have a feeling that other Captains will give you an Admiral's pay to get you to serve with them." There was light laughter. Captain Janeway, putting up her hands, continued, "Every one of you is special to me; let's always try to keep in touch".

Tom, as always, was quick with the quip, "Believe me, Captain, you'll be seeing me more than you would like. Remember, one of your duties as Miril's Godmother is to baby sit.".

Everyone laughed, except Tuvok. However, his eyebrows did slightly lift.

"I look forward to it, Tom. Dismissed!" Tom smiled and quickly walked out to join his wife, child, and family.

Chakotay stood up. "Kathryn, may I escort you out?"

"Thank you, Chakotay, you go ahead, I have something to do before I leave."

He nodded. "See you at the party."

Tuvok stood before Janeway. "You have proved to be an exemplary Captain. It was an honor to serve with you." Janeway took his hand and squeezed it, quickly letting go, knowing that Vulcans were sensitive to the emotions of others through a touch. "Old friend, what would I have done without you?"

"I have often asked myself the same question, Captain."

"Tuvok, is that a joke?" "Vulcans do not joke." "Tuvok, I want to thank you for arranging the safe removal of the alcoves."

"It is my duty, Captain, to protect my young charge, and my friend, Seven of Nine. I could not have done otherwise."

"Thanks again, Tuvok."

Harry tried hard to hold back his tears, but they seeped from the corners of his eyes and slowly rolled down his cheeks. "Captain, I…"

Janeway grabbed him in a hug. "It's all right, Harry; I know what you were going to say. Just know that I am proud of you. You will make a fine Starfleet Captain one day, of that I am sure."

Harry drew himself up into formal attention, feet together, head up, stomach in and chest out. "Thank you, Captain."

Janeway tried not to smirk. "At ease, Ensign, before you sprain something."

The young man smiled, turned smartly on his heels, and left the Bridge.

That just left Seven, standing in her stiff Borg pose, staring at her captain. Janeway spoke first. "We'll have time to talk tonight, Seven. 'Thank you' does not seem enough, Seven. Your strength, knowledge, and selfless acts of courage, brought us from the brink of destruction on many occasions. I feel you, more than anyone, brought us home."

"It was your future self, Admiral Janeway, who brought us home."

"No, Seven, we would never have made it this far if it hadn't been for you. There is so much more that I want to tell you, but now is not the place and time. Go now. I told my mother and Phoebe to look out for your aunt and stay with her until you disembark; then she'll go with us to the reception. They will be waiting for you, and I will be just a few minutes behind."

"Captain…thank you for…giving me back my life. I find I do not have the words to express to you all that I feel. Perhaps there are no words."

A single tear glistened and trembled in Seven's long golden lashes then fell on her right cheek, leaving a wet trail. Janeway put her arms around the young woman's shoulder and pulled her close. Seven hesitated for a moment and then slipped her arms around her Captain's chest, placing her palms against her back. Janeway, with eyes closed, whispered close to Seven's right ear. "Trust me, it will be all right, I promise you it will be all right."

Seven drew back and stared into Janeway's eyes. "Yes Captain, it will." She turned and walked off the Bridge, leaving Janeway alone to say goodbye to her ship. No, more than a ship. Her mistress for seven years, a living being, with heart and spirit. They had come through for each other. Now it was time to part. Her ship would be fitted out with Starfleet's newest technologies, new furnishings, and have a proud new Captain, who would feel honored to command a ship with such a glorious past. She hoped he or she would treat this ship as a lover, to give their all and accept all that Voyager had to give them.

Captain Kathryn Janeway started her long walk down the gangway, not looking back, eyes forward, but nonetheless she was aware of the small crowds standing in the cordoned area, clapping and cheering her. Most crewmembers had already been escorted to the reception, but some had remained. The press was shouting questions to her over the heads of and between Starfleet Security guards, who were standing at attention to prevent the journalists from crossing the secured perimeter. Press cameras pointed her way, and the cameramen vied for the best spot to get a clear view. Before she was halfway down, Captain Jenkins met her; he came smartly to attention and saluted her. This custom had generally disappeared over the last couple of centuries and was rarely used. It was a chivalrous way to honor another officer for an achievement above and beyond the call of duty. "Captain Janeway, sir, it is an honor."

Janeway returned the salute, as was customary. "Thank you, Captain…"

"Captain Andrew Jenkins, Sir."

"Ah, you're here to secure my ship. Every one has disembarked; I won't keep you from your duty."

"Thank you Sir."

He turned and waited for her to pass then followed behind her. There they were, her mother and Phoebe, waiting at the end of the gangway, both with radiant smiles and tears in their eyes. Janeway stepped off the gangway and into her mother's arms, holding her close, both crying unashamedly. "Mom". That was the only word she managed to utter for a long 30 seconds.

Gretchen, drawing back slightly, quickly looked her over. "Daughter, let me look at you."

Janeway smiled, wiping her eyes with her hand. "Nothing the matter your good cooking won't cure, Mom."

"See, Mom, I told you a captain lives by her stomach." Phoebe's gray eyes were shining with unshed tears; she grabbed Kathryn by the shoulders and pulled her into a tight embrace, saying in a mock severe voice, "Don't do this again, Kathryn."

"Phoebe, I missed you, too. And for your information it's an army that lives by their stomach, not a captain."

"Well, Sis, we'll see about that when mom fixes some of your favorite dishes like caramel brownies."

Janeway looked her sister over. Phoebe had her light chestnut hair in an attractive French braid and was just as slim and trim as Janeway. "And your delicious coffee?"

"I knew it. You didn't miss me at all. It was my coffee you missed."

Janeway laughed. "And it took you this long to figure it out?"

"No. I knew it all along; I just wanted you to admit it."

Gretchen's voice said in mock sternness, "Girls, let's wait a few days to start the bickering."

Phoebe looked at her sister and stuck her tongue out. Janeway smiled devilishly and whispered loudly, "Later."

Sandwiched between her mother and sister, their arms around her waist, Janeway searched for Seven and her aunt. She scanned the crowd, who had made a point to give her and her family privacy by conversing with each other. "Mom, where are Seven and her aunt?"

Phoebe answered sourly, "Hiding from the so-called press, after they badgered her with hateful questions."

Janeway looked shocked. "What…what do you mean?"

Gretchen, her voice angry, said, "She means, Kathryn, the poor girl was not even down the ramp before the journalists recognized her and then began screaming across the barricades at her, 'How many people did you assimilate? 'Is it true you assimilated half the crew and the Captain herself? Weren't you with the Borg at Wolf 359?'.and other such….trash. It gets worse. Apparently, there was a small group of civilians who either lost loved ones to the Borg or just hate and fear them in general. They were calling her 'murderer' and said she should be terminated, and to get back to Borg space where she belonged. Seven just froze and stared at them for a moment. It was obvious she was distressed by the questions. Her aunt was with us and went up the ramp immediately to her. We, also, followed. The girl was in shock. We helped her aunt coax her the rest of the way down. The… .mob wouldn't let up. If Starfleet Security hadn't been there, they would have come across the barricade".

Phoebe interjected ,"Goddess knows I wanted to grab a phaser off one of the guards and have at them."

Janeway clenched her teeth, her eyes hard gray granite, mouth set in a tight line, face flushed. "Damn, I should have come out with her. Where are they now?"

Gretchen gave a small satisfied smile and stated, "You have a loyal crew, Kathryn. They and their families closed ranks around us. Several of the crew were upset themselves and tried to cross the barricade to uhh.…make their feelings known. Thank goodness security stopped them, or there would have been a riot."

Janeway was pleased. It had not been easy for most of her crew to come to terms with Seven of Nine. This act proved that they now thought of Seven as one of their own.

Gretchen went on ,"I had security take her and her aunt to the aero limo that has been reserved for us."

Janeway gave a relieved sigh. "Thank you, Mom. Well, let me talk to some of the families and then we can be on our way."

Janeway, Gretchen, and Phoebe were escorted by several Starfleet Security personnel to a nearby waiting V.I.P. aero limo. This vehicle had enough space to seat 16 individuals. A Security officer opened the door closest to the driver for Janeway and her family. Janeway let her mother and sister enter and then told the officer she would take the seat behind, which held Seven and her aunt. Janeway slid in next to Seven and settled herself, putting on her safety belt, even though the trip would last less than two minutes. Seven was staring straight ahead, her left profile towards Janeway and her hands on her lap. Janeway took her Seven's right hand in her left and squeezed. "I'm so sorry, Seven, I should have been with you."

"It is irrelevant. You could not have prevented what occurred. "

"Look at me, Seven." Seven turned her head, and her eyes met Janeway's in the dimly lighted limo. Janeway noted her eyes were cold pieces of ice. "Please, I know this has upset you. It would upset me too. But this was only a few protesters and the press. The press are always looking for something to sensationalize. As for the others, they were just looking for someone to blame, and that's all."

Before Seven could reply, her aunt firmly stated, "You listen to her, Annika, she is right; it is in the nature of humans to look for a scapegoat. It will be you this week and someone else the next."

Seven, her eyes still on Janeway, coldly answered, "This hurts, Captain. I know I had no choice in what I did as a Borg drone. Still I feel… .guilty."

"You feel guilty because that is a human thing to do. We often feel guilty for things that are out of our control. I still feel guilty that we got stuck in the Delta Quadrant, even though it was not anything we could have foreseen. I feel guilty when I send crew on dangerous missions and they are injured or die, though it was necessary to do so. But you, Seven, you are the victim. There was nothing you could have done to stop what you were forced to do. You learn, Seven, to move on away from the guilt. If you do not, it will destroy you. I want to find a good counselor for you, Seven, and I want you to go. Will you do that?"

Seven lowered her eyes. "If you think it will help me in dealing with this…guilt…I will, Captain."

Irene patted Seven's Borg hand and stated, "Annika has a cousin, around her age, who is a psychologist. She may be able to help."

Janeway put her hand under Seven's chin and lifted her head, a small smile on her face. "Seven, I will be here for you, and so will my family and your family. This will get better, I swear."

Seven's gaze softened, the ice in her eyes thawing. "Thank you, Captain". She next turned to her aunt. "Thank you, Aunt Irene."

Irene hugged her close. "It will be all right, you will see."

And Seven did see. If her Captain were there with her, it would indeed be all right.

Chapter Five

Janeway thought the obligatory smile on her face was stuck there. At first, the smile had been genuine. As soon as she and her family and Seven and her aunt made their entrance to the party, she was met by applause, by not only her crew and their families but also around 25 various Starfleet Officials and many government VIPs. She had wanted this to be just a small get-together so she could meet the families of her crewmembers and then call it a night. She couldn't wait to get under the covers in her old bed at home, in her old room, and just sleep for a week. However, Starfleet was very much a political institution. Besides Admiral Ross, Admiral Paris, and the ever longwinded Admiral Hayes, there was the equally longwinded Prime Minister of Earth, Demetrius Usuloff. Janeway had to keep that damn smile on her face. She took a seat on the stage in full view of everyone there. Well, she could relax her face a little. God, she could recite their entire seven-year voyage in the time it took this to end. Her eyes scanned the mostly standing audience in the dim light. It was hard to make out the faces with the spotlights turned toward the stage. She was looking for one face in particular, wondering where she might be. She almost missed the Prime Minister's closing comments to her. Focusing her attention back on what was going on around her, she noted the Prime Minister walking towards her. "..and I would like to present you and your crew the key to our fabulous city by the bay, San Francisco."

Janeway stood quickly, shaking his right hand and thanking him profusely. She was handed a large foot long gold key tied with ribbons in Starfleet blue and white. Holding it up, she stated to her crew, "Just remember to behave. I might no longer be your captain, but I don't want to come to the brig to sign you out."

Of course, this generated laughter, some wag in the audience shouting out, "Captain, who will bail you out if you're in there with us?" Janeway laughed along with the audience.

She shook a few more hands and went down into the audience to mingle with her crew and family. She finally made her way over to her mother and Phoebe; she was glad that Seven and her Aunt Irene were there with them. Seven was engaged in talking to the Delaney sisters and their parents, and Harry Kim and his parents. The Delaneys had worked in astrometrics with Seven. Whatever they talked about, she could see that Seven had amused the group as they were laughing. The two sisters protested that whatever Seven told the group was exaggeration on her part. She heard Seven say, "Obviously, both of you suffer from some lapse of memory. Perhaps both of you are afflicted with 'space psychoses'. You have forgotten I have eidetic memory." Janeway noticed that Seven seemed much more relaxed and sociable. Gretchen was conversing with one of her father's old mentors, Retired Admiral Finnegan, who must be at least a hundred years old. She learned he had finally retired five years ago. Gretchen was introducing Irene Hanson to him, and the old goat was slobbering on the knuckles of her right hand in what he thought was a courtly manner. Janeway had to admit Irene was a handsome woman, with attractive white hair, almost as tall as Seven, and with the same ice blue eyes. She could tell that Irene had been a striking beauty when younger. It showed in the bone structure of her face. Phoebe was nowhere to be seen. Probably talking art with someone. Janeway decided to go up to Seven and the small group and steal her away at an opportune moment. Perhaps to go outside in the garden area so they could talk and get some fresh air. She stood by Seven's right side as she was listening to Harry Kim regale them about the time Tom tried to get Seven to interact in his Captain Photon holostory. Seven was supposed to be Constance Goodheart and keep Satan's Robot occupied while Tom saved Earth. As Satan's Robot approached Seven, she just stood there and said, "I am Borg," reached out and turned off the thing and told Tom "The robot has been neutralized, may I go now?" Everyone laughed, and Harry, seeing Captain Janeway, asked her to tell the group about her 'Queen Arachnia' episode.

She held up her hand. "Another time perhaps. I need to step out and get some fresh air."

Seven turned to Janeway and asked, "Captain, I require fresh air also. May I accompany you?"

Seven excused herself from the group and walked towards the mezzanine with Janeway who noticed that Seven looked just a little unsteady on her feet. Janeway stopped once they reached the mezzanine. "Seven, are you all right?"

Seven brought her glass up to her lips and took a slow sip of the contents, looking at Janeway over the rim with half lidded eyes. "Captain, I am more than….all right."

Janeway was momentarily stunned. "Seven, is that what I think it is you're drinking?"

Seven smirked and in a voice an octave lower than her usual said, "If you are thinking it is Champagne…. then you would be correct….Captain."

"Seven, how much have you had to drink?"

Seven closed her eyes for a few seconds, opened them, and stared at Janeway with what seemed to be unfocused eyes. "Not enough. Oh, look, somehow the champagne has disappeared from the glass. I will get another glass. May I get you a glass Captain?"

Janeway took the glass from Seven's hand and placed it on a nearby table. Taking the young woman by her left arm and headed quickly for the steps that led to the garden. She growled, "I don't want any, and neither do you, Seven."

Seven looked at her perplexed. "But my glass is empty. I must refill it, Captain. Where are you taking me?"

"To get some fresh air, Seven." Janeway held Seven by her right elbow, leading her to the walkway into the garden. She spotted a Starfleet Cadet, one acting as a waiter, out getting some air. "Young man, do me a favor and go to the kitchen and see if you can find two cups of coffee, both black, and bring them out to the gazebo."

He stood at attention, eyes wide. "Yes Sir, Captain, Sir."

Janeway thought. 'Yeah, this is definitely crunch time.'

Seven stopped before reaching the gazebo and, gazing up, exclaimed, "Look, Captain, the moon, this is my first time viewing it."

Janeway looked up in puzzlement and exclaimed, "What? Seven, that's a Chinese lantern. How much did you drink?"

Seven stumbled up the gazebo steps and flopped on one of the padded benches, pouting her lips. "You are angry with me. I have disappointed you."

"I'm not angry with you, Seven, and you have not disappointed me. I'm just concerned. You know it only takes a little alcohol to affect your cortical node."

Seven wailed out, "I have failed you. You will not want to be my friend now that you are no longer my Captain." Seven put her hands up to her eyes and started to cry.

"Seven, of course I am your friend."

Seven sniffed and looked at Janeway. "But will you be my friend all of the time and not part of the time?"

"Of course, Seven, why wouldn't I be?"

"On Arturis' ship you said, 'I am your Captain, which means I can't always be your friend.'"

"Seven, I am your friend always. Have no doubt of that."

Seven's smile was radiant as she replied, "Captain, I will be your friend always."

Janeway smiled in return. "Seven, since I am no longer your Captain, call me Kathryn."

Seven blinked her eyes once in surprise then said. "I… thank you, Captain….Kathryn" .

The young Cadet, bringing Janeway's order of coffee, interrupted them. She took both cups and dismissed the Cadet. Handing one to Seven, she ordered, "Drink this, Seven. It will help you feel better."

Seven took the cup and looked at its contents. "Capt…Kathryn, I do feel…better."

Janeway snorted in amusement. "Believe me, Seven, I don't think even your nanoprobes are going to help your hangover. Now take just one more order from your Captain and drink."

Seven brought the cup up to her nose and sniffed. "It is coffee. I do not care for the taste."

"Seven. please trust me. You will be glad you did."

Seven swallowed the contents in a few large gulps. Her mouth in a grimace, she uttered, "It is… yucky."

Janeway snickered. "I see you've been taking descriptive English lessons from Naomi."

"It is an adequate description, is it not?"

Janeway replied, "To each his own."

Seven thought for a moment. "Capt….Kathryn, I do not feel any different."

"Believe me, you will. The coffee will just help ease the symptoms."

Seven gaped at Kathryn unabashedly for a few long moments. "I find you.…esthetically pleasing, Kathryn."

Janeway dryly said, "Why thank you, Seven. But in the state you're in, you would find Neelix esthetically pleasing."

Seven looked puzzled for a moment and then replied, "I think not. I do not wish to engage in non-productive copulation with Neelix." '

Oh boy, Katie, In Vino Veritas.' "Seven, let's get up and walk around some. I think we both could use the fresh air."

Seven got unsteadily on her feet and swayed. Janeway put her right arm around Seven's waist to keep her from falling. "I am malfunctioning. I can not stand."

Janeway helped her to sit back down. 'She seems to be getting worse than better. May be I should contact The Doctor.' Janeway still had her communication pin on and tapped it. "Janeway to The Doctor."

"Yes, Captain what can I do for you?"

"This is private. I need to see you…alone. Out in the gazebo in the garden. It's important."

"I'll be right there."

Seven tried to lie down on the bench. "Why is everything moving? Is this a typical San Francisco earthquake? I am not functioning within normal parameters."

"Seven, I just contacted The Doctor. He will be right here."

Seven sat back up, her hands around her stomach. She began swallowing in loud gulps. Janeway acted quickly. "Get up, Seven." She pulled the young woman up and over to the railing on the dark side of the gazebo, pushing against her back and forcing her upper torso to bend over the railing. Just in the nick of time. Seven heaved several times into the bushes below. Janeway put a steadying hand on her back. "Stay put, Seven, to make sure the vomiting stops."

A sound of footsteps and The Doctor was to the right of Janeway, viewing the scenario. "Seems like too much celebration."

Janeway gave him a force ten stare. "Do something Doctor, and that's an order."

Smugly the doctor smiled. "In case you have forgotten, you are no longer my Captain."

Janeway, arms folded across her chest, her nostrils flaring, retorted, "I am until I officially turn over Voyager to Starfleet. If you don't do what I 'ordered,' I will turn you over as a piece of Voyager's equipment, and you can start your new career scrubbing out plasma conduits."

"Hm, I don't have my supplies with me. Dr. Seymour Leet is here. I will ask him to have some beamed to me."

"Do it."

Seven stood back up looking pale, her lips in a frown. "Over here, Seven. The Doctor just requested something to make you feel better." Janeway led the young woman to the bench and sat down beside her, her right hand still on Seven's upper back.

The doctor came over with a hypospray and some sterile wipes. As he applied the hypospray to the side of Seven's neck he remarked, "Lucky for you these functions always have a doctor on hand with supplies…seems this is a common occurrence at Starfleet parties."

Janeway stated, "Thank you Doctor."

He handed the wipes to her and said, "Don't make a habit of it."

Janeway opened the sealed package and drew out a large folded damp wipe. Turning Seven's face towards her with her left hand, she began wiping her mouth and face. "Feeling better?"

Seven lifted up her eyes and looked at Janeway. "I am sorry, I have ruined your party."

Janeway twitched her lips in a smile . "No you didn't, Seven. It's expected that at least 80 percent of the crew will imbibe too much food and drink at these functions. Believe me, you won't be the only one needing a hypospray tonight."

Seven frowned and stated, "I will never consume champagne again even if it is required at Starfleet functions."

Janeway inquired, "Where did you get that idea, Seven?"

"Phoebe informed me it was required at these functions to always have a glass of spirits in your hand, or others would perceive you as unsociable or that you find what they offer is unacceptable."

Janeway clamped her teeth tightly. 'Phoebe, hmm,.…figures. ' "Seven, that is generally true, but Phoebe should have told you juice would have worked just fine. Or, in fact, a glass of spirits sipped slowly over the course of the evening if juice is unavailable. You do not have to drain your glass in 10 seconds and then go and get a refill."

"I did not, Kathryn. I consumed the contents of each glass in approximately 5.2 minutes before receiving a refill . Several times I would be in conversation with others, and one of the Cadets would come by and replace my empty glass with a full one."

Janeway curiously inquired, "Just how many glasses of champagne did you have, Seven?"

Seven turned her head slightly to her right for a moment before replying, "I am not positive as my cortical node was malfunctioning, but I believe it was eight."

Janeway wryly smiled. "Well, Seven, that many would knock a Klingon out for the night. Let's go find my mother and your aunt and call it a night. This has been a long day, and it is beginning to catch up to me."

Seven nodded. "Very well, I am still not functioning within acceptable parameters. I have …learned my lesson."

Janeway chuckled. "Believe me, Seven, I have said that same thing after many a Starfleet blowout, and so will you."

Seven was confused. Why would she learn a lesson and then have to say she learned it again after another party.

The party was winding down when the five women departed for the Janeway Homestead. The aero limo would take them a couple of blocks to a Starfleet transporting station reserved for Starfleet Personnel only. Neither Janeway nor Seven informed the other three women of Seven's earlier infirmity. She looked just a little pale, which could easily be explained away by the grueling last few days. They were than transported to the one transporter station on the outskirts of Bloomington. Phoebe's aero car was parked in the lot reserved for transporter customers. Phoebe drove, with her mother sitting next to her, and Janeway, Seven, and Irene in the back seat.

All of Janeway's belongings had been sent to storage in San Francisco. Her new uniforms, civvies, and personal items were transported to her mother's home in Indiana, along with a few items of casual clothes of Seven's. Seven's Aunt Irene had brought a change of clothes for overnight.

Seven had decided now was the time to rid herself of the biosuits she had to use to maintain her bodily functions. Now that she was eating and sleeping more, the biosuits were no longer necessary. In addition, her biosuits would make her stand out even more as being 'different'. She also did not want to appeal to anyone's prurient interest. She knew from past monitoring of the vitals of fellow crewmembers what reaction the suit caused, mostly in males but in some females as well. That had passed in time as the novelty wore off, but it still happened on occasion. At first, their reactions were 'irrelevant', but as she became more acclimated to being 'human' she was uncomfortable when she noted their arousal. The only exception, of course, was Captain Janeway. Seven felt satisfaction, and later certain stimulation herself, when she was aware that Kathryn herself was 'aroused'. Of course, for the past two years just being near her Captain caused Seven to feel desire although she tried to suppress this feeling since Janeway adhered strictly to the unwritten rule that a Captain should not fraternize with the crew or become involved in a romance. A rule that Seven thought irrelevant since she was not an official crewmember. However, she knew that Captain Janeway believed that she was Seven's superior. "I am your Captain, which means that I can't always be your friend." Seven had a vague recollection that this subject had been discussed tonight. Was she remembering correctly that Captain Janeway stated she was not her Captain any longer and was her friend…and to call her Kathryn.? She could not recall the entire conversation due to the effect of the alcohol on her cortical node. She would inquire of Kathryn later what all had transpired at the gazebo.

Her attention was drawn back to the conversation around her, general talk between Gretchen and Kathryn on the latest news concerning their Indiana neighbors. Seven's attention was caught by Gretchen relaying to Kathryn, "Mark is home for awhile…sans wife. They divorced two months ago. I heard she is now the assistant to another professor at Florida State University, I'm not sure what happened."

Phoebe sarcastically commented, "Probably bored her to death. Honestly, Kathryn, if you had married him you would be volunteering for deep space missions on a regular basis. What was the big attraction any way? Good in the sack?"

Janeway, who was sitting behind Phoebe, lightly slapped the back of her head. "That ship left the station a long time ago, and I'm not signing up to serve if it should pull back in."

Phoebe snorted. Seven felt distressed. She knew who Mark was. Kathryn had talked about him once and how they had been engaged to marry.

Seven contemptuously stated, "He does not deserve you Captain. He is flawed."

Everyone laughed, even Janeway. Phoebe agreed, "You got that right, Seven."

Gretchen warned her daughter, "Now that you're back he may want to take up where you two left off."

Janeway snorted derisively. "Not a chance."

Seven felt Kathryn's right hand close over her left and squeeze before letting it go. Janeway kept looking straight ahead. Seven was momentarily confused. Did this signal that Kathryn would give her 'a chance'? Should she 'bide her time', an expression she once heard Tom use to Harry Kim, advising him to "play it cool" and "not jump the gun."

"You got to wait for Megan Delaney to "fold" and "make the first move," Tom continued with his advice to Kim. "After all, you don't want to come on like a 'Vulcan in Pon Farr'. Makes them think you're desperate. And she'll 'warp' out of there in a 'nanosecond'." She had asked The Doctor the significance of the terms, and he explained the meanings. She wondered why a person just did not come out and say what they meant instead of using all those "euphemisms." The Doctor said if she wanted to learn more she needed to look in the computer files for Patricia Todd's book, " A Beginners Guide to Understanding Popular Euphemisms of Earth and How to Use Them." It had indeed proved useful. Perhaps she should 'test the waters' or better yet, 'stake her claim' by bringing Kathryn flowers when she visited two weeks from now and take her out to dinner; after all a girl liked to be 'wined and dined'. Of course, it would be a place that would provide a quiet, intimate dinner with soft music and…..with no dancing. Definitely No Dancing. She did not want Kathryn to know she had 'two left feet'.

Everyone was ready to hit the sack when the five women arrived at the Janeway Homestead . Irene was to have the guest room, and Seven would have Phoebe's room. Phoebe would be staying in her studio loft with an efficiency apartment built over the large garage. Kathryn took Seven upstairs to Phoebe's room, which was next door to her bedroom. Seven's satchel had been placed on the bed with a clean towel and washcloth. "Now, if there is anything you need Seven, I am right next door. The bath room is right across from my room."

"Thank you Captain, this is sufficient."

Janeway smiled and said, "Kathryn, Seven, remember we discussed this earlier?"

Seven reflected for a moment. "I seem to recall such a conversation, though my memory was impaired by the champagne I ingested."

Janeway gave a lopsided smile. "Are you feeling all right? Do I need to get you anything?"

"No Ca…Kathryn. I am fine though feeling some fatigue. I do believe I may be able to sleep tonight."

Janeway agreed. "The last few days have been wearing on all of us. I think I'll be out like a light as soon as my head hits the pillow. Well…good night, Seven."

"Good night…Kathryn."

Janeway impulsively stepped forward and hugged the young woman, feeling Seven's soft breasts press against her own and noting that without her Borg heels increasing her height, Seven 'fit' much better against her body. Seven put her arms around Janeway and hugged her back Janeway released her hold and stepped back a couple of steps. "I'll see you in the morning at breakfast."

Seven's smile was wide, and her eyes twinkled "Tomorrow, Kathryn."

Chapter Six

Her dream scattered and fled, leaving her disoriented to time and place. With a start she bolted upright. 'Red Alert'. No… not Voyager…..home. Yes, she remembered now. Home. "Sis, get up. Breakfast is almost ready, and you're the last one up."

She threw back the covers, sliding into her slippers and housecoat. "Alright, alright, I'm up. Give me time to take a quick shower, and I'll be right down."

"Ten minutes, Sis, and we start without you."

Janeway opened her door, hurried into the bathroom, and set the shower controls. 'No time for a long hot one.' She quickly got under the warm spray, running a soapy washcloth over her body. Quickly rinsed, jumped out, and dried herself. Back in her bedroom, she dressed in a pair of light blue jeans and a dark blue long sleeve pullover cotton shirt. She put on a pair of white crew socks, but decided to forgo the shoes and put them on later.

Hurrying down the stairs, she caught a quick whiff of fresh biscuits, bacon, and, of course, coffee. Entering the dining room, she noted everyone was seated. She slid in next to Phoebe. Seven was directly across from her and Irene next to Seven. Her mother took the end of the table, now the head since her father died. "You could have started without me."

Gretchen looked at her daughter. "Kathryn, this is your first breakfast home in over seven years. We couldn't start without you."

Phoebe muttered under her breath, "I could".

Janeway noted that her coffee cup was already filled. Taking the cup, she held it up to her face and sniffed deeply, eyes closed, and took a sip. "Uhmm. You know, I missed this most of all while out in the Delta Quadrant." Everyone piled their plates full. Even Seven had a moderate amount of everything. Janeway watched her across the table, noting that her hair was down around her shoulders, and she was wearing a pale yellow short sleeve blouse. She watched, mesmerized, as Seven delicately took a bite of her scrambled eggs, taking a quick sniff before she put it in her mouth and chewed slowly, deciding if she liked the taste. Janeway saw her eyes widen a little as she took another bite, apparently enjoying the taste. She continued to watch as Seven took a sip of orange juice from her glass and then slowly licked her tongue over her upper lip to remove a drop. Janeway was lost to all around her; focused on what Seven was doing with her wet pink tongue and those luscious lips.

She felt an elbow in her side. "Wake up, Sis. Mom's been trying to get your attention for at least a half a minute."

Janeway felt her face flush and quickly put the coffee cup up close to her mouth and bent her head slightly to sip, hoping to at least hide some of her embarrassment.

"Kathryn, is everything ok, you have hardly taken a bite."

She felt her face heat up even more. "Everything's fine Mom, I just have to get a little caffeine in my system before I dig in." She took a piece of crisp bacon and began to eat, eyes on her plate and avoiding eye contact with everyone.

Phoebe begin talking about her latest art pieces. "It's various collages combined with wire sculpture that acts as a frame for the different pieces of the canvas. It represents that moment in time when waking from a dream to full consciousness; the time where illusion and reality merge."

Seven looking intrigued,commented, "I am just beginning to experience dreams since I have initiated sleeping as part of my daily functional routine. I know that I dream but upon waking can not remember what it was I dreamed; I only 'sense' if they were disturbing or pleasurable."

Phoebe, her interest piqued, replied, "Seven, you must come up to my studio after breakfast to see some of my latest pieces on dream interpretations."

Seven turned up the corners of her lips in a quick smile. "Thank you…I would enjoy that."

Janeway felt a small alarm go off. Phoebe was like a woman magnet. Women were drawn to her. Janeway remembered Phoebe's favorite pickup line. "You have perfect bone structure. You would make a great subject for my next painting." Next thing you knew you would see her 'subject' leaving the studio the next morning. She doubted Phoebe was up all night painting…with the lights off. Seven had just discovered her orientation and would be vulnerable if Phoebe set out to get her. 'Katie, be honest, Phoebe is sniffing too close to what you consider is yours.' She quickly and firmly stated, "Phoebe, it will have to be some other time. I promised Seven I would show her around the Place today".

Phoebe wouldn't give in. "She can do that when she comes for a stay in two weeks."

Kathryn retorted, "Well then, she can wait two weeks to see your studio and art…That will give you plenty of time to make your…den of iniquity presentable".

Phoebe, her voice an octave higher, shot back "Den of iniquity!"

Gretchen interrupted, "Girls, please. Seven and Irene have to leave in an hour to transport back to Sweden. She won't have time today. Seven will be back in two weeks, and then she'll have time to do those things."

Seven was both amused and puzzled by the bickering. "You are correct, Gretchen, the two activities will commence when I return in two weeks."

Janeway knew she was acting childish and peevish, but Phoebe always managed to push her buttons.

After breakfast, Janeway cleared off the table, scraped the dishes, and set them by the sink. Its being a traditionalist home, Gretchen didn't have a replicator, and, much to the two girls' chagrin, did not have a dishwasher. Growing up, the girls had taken turns cleaning off the table, washing and drying the dishes, and putting them away. Today Gretchen assigned the chore of washing the dishes to Phoebe. Gretchen would come in later and put them away. Janeway dried them and then headed out to the living room, taking a seat on the couch next to Seven. Irene had invited the Janeways to visit her and was describing the local attractions and what would be the ideal time to visit for winter scenery and summer scenery. The two Irish setters got up from their place on the rug and went to the door, barking to warn off an approaching intruder. Gretchen had the two go back to their spot on the rug and sit. There was a knock at the door, and Gretchen opened it and exclaimed, "Sylvia, come on in and have a seat". Janeway grimaced. 'Just what I need, Mark's mother showing up'.

Sylvia was of medium height with light brown hair and dressed in the latest fashionable style from New York. Gretchen introduced both Irene and Seven. Janeway, having been taught polite manners, stood up as Mrs. Johnson descended on her with a sorority girl squeal, loosely hugging her and giving 'air kisses'. "Kathryn, let me look at you, why you haven't changed a bit, oh I love that hair style, and shorter hair looks so good on a woman your age. Why, I'm just so excited that you made it back. Mark is, too. Why, he called last night and asked me to come by and visit, to see how you're doing. He would have run right over as soon as he heard that you were back, but he is teaching a Philosophy class at Mars University this semester, until December. He told me to tell you he would be by to visit as soon as he got back. Why, I haven't seen Mark this excited in a long time. Lately he has been sinking himself into his studies. I suppose it has to do with that… Latinum digger he just divorced. What he ever saw in her, why, I just don't know. Women like that know how to trap a man when he is vulnerable. Poor Mark, he kept up hope for so long that you would be returning. Well, you know how men are, they always need to be babied, and "Ms. Ferengi" was right there to take advantage of him…."

Janeway hoped her grimace looked like a smile. 'Give me a ship full of Hirogens any day. What did I do in a past life to deserve this'

"….and he said he will try to call you when he gets a break, why, the man can't wait to hear your voice. Well, look at the time. I have to run. I don't want to be late for my Daughters of the Confederacy meeting. Well, Kathryn, I'll tell Mark I saw you and how well you're looking. Oh, and nice meeting you Ms. Hansen and Ms...ah…Eleven. Bye all."

Gretchen walked Sylvia to the door and closed it behind her. Janeway groaned and rolled her eyes. Phoebe was letting out peals of laughter from the kitchen. Gretchen just smirked.

Janeway instructed her mom, "If he calls, tell him I am unavailable and take a message".

"Kathryn, you're going to have to see him sooner or later."

Janeway groaned again. "Not if I can arrange another trip to the Delta Quadrant."

Irene noted the time and stated that she and Annika better get hustling or they would miss the Transport time. Seven quickly rose from the couch and headed for the stairs, Janeway right behind. Seven went to the bed and checked the Velcro closings on her bag to make sure they were fastened, her back to Janeway. "You have a good time at your aunt's. I will spend the next week arranging for the installation of your alcove and finding you a good lawyer."

Seven answered in a cold Borg voice, "acceptable".

Janeway said in a concerned voice, "Seven, turn around and look at me".

Seven turned and placed her hands behind her back in her old Borg stance, eyes cold. "Seven, what's wrong?"

"I am…apprehensive."

"Seven, I'm sure that your relatives will be nothing but accepting of you. Believe me, you'll have a good time."

Before Seven could tell Kathryn the real reason she was apprehensive, her aunt called from downstairs. "Hurry, Annika, Phoebe has the car out front. We do not want to be late." Seven turned and picked up her bag from the bed and headed downstairs, Janeway, with a concerned look on her face, right behind.

Gretchen hugged Irene good-bye and invited her back for a visit, promising she would visit Irene in Sweden soon. She next gave Seven a long hug and told her when she returned in two weeks, they would have to try some recipes that she had not used in years, as her girls were fussy eaters and, growing up, preferred replicated food. Seven smiled and stated, "I believe I would like that". Irene sat in the front of the aero car with Phoebe. Janeway joined Seven in the back seat. Phoebe and Irene were engaged in a conversation pertaining to where the best ski areas were in Sweden and what was the best time of year for the optimal powder.

Janeway glanced over at Seven, noting that she still had that icy Borg look. She thought to lighten the mood. "You know Seven, when you come to visit I want to take you to San Francisco and show you the city. I think you will like it. They have some great restaurants that you will enjoy.

Seven glanced at Kathryn and replied, "acceptable".

Janeway went on, "Of course, I would like to do anything that you want. I have all that leave built up, and I cannot think of anything that I would enjoy more than spending time with you. We could plan trips to anywhere you would like to go". Seven just nodded her head, keeping her eyes focused straight ahead. "Is there any place particular you would like to go or anything special you would like to do, Seven?"

Seven turned and looked into Kathryn's eyes. "I would enjoy seeing the willow tree that was your secret refuge as a child. I would like to see the 'swimming hole' where you went on hot summer days, and the stream where you would fish, the apple orchard where you, Phoebe, and your friends, Mary and Emma, picked the fallen fruit and hid in the hedgerow to 'ambush, the boys, bombarding them with 'rotten apples'. I would like to pick blueberries. Weave garlands of wild flowers. I want you to show me all the places that were 'special' to you, Kathryn "

Janeway was moved. Looking softly into Seven's eyes, she took her left hand with her right and stroked her finger tips lightly over the mesh covering Seven's hand. "Oh, Seven. nothing would give me greater pleasure than to see these places with you…to see them through your eyes."

Seven smiled one of her rare, radiant, heart stopping smiles. "Thank you Kathryn."

Janeway kept Seven's hand in hers for the rest of the short trip. No words were needed. Seven knew if Kathryn's 'past' should encroach on the future, their future, she, Seven of Nine, would prevail. One lesson she had learned as a Borg. 'Resistance is Futile.'

Janeway got into the passenger side of the aero car. She hated saying good byes. However, she was used to them. That was the life of a Starfleet Captain. She smiled that secret little half smile women in love smiled when thinking about that one special person. She had hugged Irene Hansen and whispered into her ear, "Call me if you need me…you know".

Irene whispered back. "I have your number. You are a good person, Kathryn Janeway. Thank you for bringing my Annika back."

"I would do it again."

She had walked over to Seven, who was in a bear hug from her sister. "Seven, you will just have to sit for me so I can paint your portrait; my hands are just itching to pick up the brushes and begin."

Janeway had wryly thought 'That better be all they're itching to do'. Phoebe went on to say her goodbyes to Irene. Janeway smiled up at Seven. "I believe I like you in flat heels. I don't have to get on my toes to do this." She gave Seven a quick kiss on the cheek.

Seven blushed and smiled shyly. "I believe when we next meet, I will remove my foot wear."

Janeway chuckled "You do that."

Seven sighed. "I will miss you, Kathryn"

"I know. I will miss you too. However, it will only be for two weeks, and I think you will enjoy meeting your relatives. Besides, I wouldn't be much company with all the debriefings and hearings coming up next week. Time will pass quickly."

Seven smirked. "I am familiar with time relativity, Kathryn. Time will seem relatively long until I see you again"

Janeway smiled, surprised. "Oh my, Seven, that is a very sweet thing to say."

"Annika, come. We will be late". Seven turned, and Janeway watched her walk away.

She was abruptly brought back to the present by Phoebe's enthusiastic declaration, "Wow, Sis, that Seven of Nine is to die for. Beauty and brains. I think when she comes back I'm going to take her to dinner at this Fab-u-less Restaurant I know in Paris, then show her the sights".

Janeway retorted, "Over my dead body, Phoebe, leave her alone."

"Why, Sis, you're talking like a jealous woman….unless you are a jealous woman. Hmm?''

"None of your business. Phoebe. I mean it. She has no experience when it comes to dealing with your little games, so leave her alone."

"Gee, Sis, since when are you her mother? She looked like an adult to me…very adult. She can make up her own mind, can't she? Give me one good reason, just one good reason, why I can't go out with her. And I will leave her alone."

Janeway turned and gave Phoebe a force 10 stare. "Because Phoebe, I'm in love with her, and I think she feels the same about me."

Phoebe gently laughed and reached over with her right hand and took Kathryn's left. "Sis, I figured that out months before you came home. Every other word in your packets to us was Seven this, Seven that. I'm sorry I teased you. Well…maybe not. I just wanted you to admit it."

Janeway playfully punched her sister's arm and smiled. "Well, what do you think?''

"I think you picked a winner this time."

Kathryn squeezed Phoebe's hand. "What do you think Mom will say?"

Phoebe laughed. "Hallelujah, will miracles never cease! Besides, I think Mom and Irene already know."

Janeway blurted out, "What do you mean?"

"Well, Sis, you weren't exactly wearing your poker playing face at breakfast this morning. All of us saw you staring across the table at her, all lolly headed and googie-eyed. Looove was just written all over your face."

"I wasn't 'lolly headed and googie-eyed'….was I? I was."

"Mom noticed and looked at you two with that smug satisfied look she has when she gets what she wants. Irene was smiling, too. Seven was the only one who didn't notice. She was too busy eating. It was, also, noticed by all but you that whenever you were in Seven's vicinity, she was giving you the lolly-headed and googie-eyed look. Well, maybe the Borg version. Nevertheless, a look that spoke Loooove. So have you told her yet?"

Janeway sighed. "No. I just haven't had the right opportunity yet. I do plan to tell her when she comes to visit. Pheebs don't go blabbing your mouth. Mom may know something is going on, but I want to know for sure Seven feels the same way."

"Sis, trust me. Seven feels the same way. And I won't tell Mom…if, you let Seven pose for a portrait. Believe me, Sis, you have nothing to worry about. Why, since you've been gone I have given up my wild ways."

"Pheebs, you are so full of B.S. I could flick a seed on you and spit, and the seed would sprout. If Seven wants to pose for a portrait that's fine with me. As long as she has her clothes on. And you will have to give it to me when it's finished."

"Gee, Sis. I'm an artist not a voyeur. OK, it's a deal. It will be a wedding gift to you two."

"Pheebs." Phoebe snickered

Chapter Seven

Despite Seven's misgivings, she was enjoying herself at her aunt's. She had been there for three days already. Today the Hansens and the Thorsons descended on the house for a family reunion. At first, she was apprehensive and wished nothing more than to flee. Her aunt assured her everything would be fine. And it was. She met both sets of grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins. She had some small discomfort when her two grandmothers hugged her and cried. However, no one inquired about her parents, or her assimilation. Seven did not know if this avoidance of the topic was because it would be too painful to them or too painful for her. Which ever it was, she was grateful. Seven would call Kathryn tonight and tell her of today's events. Kathryn had called last night to inform her that she had contacted the Vulcan Embassy concerning a date to have her alcove delivered and to give her an update on Icheb, who was leaving with Tuvok in a few days for Vulcan. Seven would call him before he left. The talk had been on topics ranging from the dates for Kathryn's debriefing to an appointment Kathryn had with a Federation rights lawyer, M'Tath, whose home planet was Caitia. He was said to be the best in the earth sector. Conversation of a more personal nature was avoided, perhaps because of a combination of shyness and having family near by. She promised Kathryn she would call and tell her how the family reunion turned out.

Seven had been in a discussion with her cousin, Lars Thorson, on the topic of Dimensional Rifts, when Lars excused himself to refill his plate with pastry. One of Seven's female cousins, Hiro Thorson, approached her. Seven had met the young woman and her parents, Niklas Thorson and Aiko Saitou Thorson, earlier and learned that the parents were Professors at the Ikato Institute in Ikato, Japan. Niklas was her mother's first cousin. Hiro stood out from the rest of the relatives in that she had dark brown hair cut just below her ears and green eyes, which Seven thought was a pleasing combination. Hiro also was of shorter stature then either the Thorson or the Hansen women, Seven herself being 5' 9", in her bare feet. Seven knew Hiro to be 5'5", the same height as Kathryn, as she had used her Borg enhanced vision to get an accurate measurement. "Hiro Thorson, how may I be of assistance?"

Hiro smiled in amusement. "Annika, I was wondering if you have a few minutes to accompany me outdoors. I am finding it a little too warm and would like some fresh air and to get to know you a little better."

Seven inclined her head. "Very well."

She followed Hiro out the front door and up a well-trodden path that led to a small stone-enclosed meadow. "I always enjoy visiting Sweden, but especially during ski season. Are you going to be here then, Annika?"

"Perhaps."

They came to the stone fence, and Hiro brushed off one of the large gray smooth topped stones to sit on. Seven stood in her familiar Borg pose, hands clasped behind her back. "Wouldn't you like a seat?"

Seven almost said, 'I prefer to stand' but then decided to sit on the stone fence about three feet from her cousin.

"Aunt Irene asked me to talk to you. She thinks I could be of assistance in locating a psychologist…to help you make the transition from being in Space all your life to now living on Earth"

Seven looked at the young woman without blinking. "That is an incorrect statement. I have promised Kathryn…Captain Janeway… that I would consult with a psychologist concerning…..emotional resonance of my time as a Borg drone. Aunt Irene informed me that a relative was a psychologist and could assist in finding a suitable individual to help me …deal effectively with these issues."

Hiro gave Seven an assessing look. "Will you share some of the issues you would like addressed? I assure you this will be confidential. This will help me find a counselor suited to your needs."

"Very well. I find myself having feelings of guilt in association with the thousands of beings I assimilated. Borg drones have no free will to direct their own actions. But I was no ordinary drone. I was the Tertiary Adjunct to Unimatrix Zero One. I had been, in fact, chosen by the Queen to succeed her. While I was a part of the collective and followed the mandate of the collective, I was not bound to adhere to the will of the collective but rather to that of the Queen. In my role of Tertiary Adjunct, I could, in fact, direct other drones to carry out the Queen's command or, if severed from the collective, I could, and I did, order drones to perform acts that were central to the Borg quest for perfection. I, acting on the Queen's authority, could and did order the assimilation of thousands and the death of thousands more. I find these…acts… regretful and feel deep remorse for having performed these acts…I cannot come to terms with what I did."

Hiro turned towards Seven and placed her right hand on Sevens left shoulder. "Oh, Annika, I understand. You were just a child of six when assimilated, and you had spent close to 20 years as a Borg. That was all that you had known. Tell me. At the time you were ordering and performing assimilations, did you once believe it was wrong?"

Seven tersely stated, "I did not."

"Why, Annika, why didn't you feel that what you were doing was wrong?"

"Feelings and emotions were irrelevant. As a Borg, I had no emotions. Our goal was Perfection, and assimilation of other beings was assisting us, and them, to reach Perfection. As Borg, I had but one goal, to reach Perfection."

"In other words, Annika, you knew of no other way to reach Perfection, other than assimilation to obtain this goal. I know that the Borg think that emotions are irrelevant, and this is suppressed in a Borg, is it not?"

"Yes."

"Any emotion that you had would have been buried by your link to the collective mind and your link to the Queen. Correct?"

"Yes."

"When did you begin to feel emotion, Annika?"

"When I was severed from the collective mind."

"When your thoughts and emotions were no longer controlled?"

Seven looked away and back. "I have heard this before from Captain Janeway. I know it is logical and truthful and that I had no free will or control of my actions. However, my emotions lead me to feel guilt."

Hiro smiled sadly. "And that, Annika, is part of what makes us human. I know of two individuals outside of Starfleet who have worked with Federation citizens severed from the Borg. I will get with them and relate what you told me. Yours will be a challenging case, in that no one else who has been severed has spent his or her childhood up to maturity as a part of the collective. If you were not my cousin, I myself would take your case."

Seven looked confused. "I do not comprehend why the fact that we are related would determine if you would…take my case."

Hiro gave a quick smile. "Well, relationship factors would add a whole other dimension that could adversely interfere with treatment and vice versa. I want to get to know you better through the bonds of friendship and not through the constraints of Doctor/Client dynamics. I want you to call me Hiro and not Dr. Thorson."

Seven thought for a moment. "Acceptable. I, too, would like to be your friend, Hiro. You may call me Seven, as do my friends."

Hiro gave a big smile, moss green eyes shining, and squeezed Seven's left bicep, giving her a flirtatious look. "Seven. That has always been my lucky number. Let's go back to the house and get something to drink. I'm thirsty, and we can toast our new friendship."

Hiro stood up and took Seven's hands in both of hers to pull her up. Seven noted Hiro did not mind touching her Borg hand and was not ill at ease with her. "I would like liquid refreshment if it does not contain alcohol. It has a debilitating effect on my cortical node."

Hiro snorted. "Alcohol also has a detrimental effect on my brain cells if I drink more than one glass. Would grape juice do.?"

"Acceptable."

With that, both women headed back to the house.

Chapter Eight

Janeway felt she had done battle with half of the Delta Quadrant. In fact, she would gladly take on the Kazons, Hirogens, and even the Borg rather than what she had just gone through with Starfleet pounding her with every decision she had made while in the Delta Quadrant. She was surprised they didn't drag in a few Vulcans to mind meld with her and dig out every emotion she ever felt when making a decision. As it was, she was sure that one of Admiral Sylvanus' aides was a Betazed. Damn, maybe all of the aides were Betazeds. They told her the 'inquisition' was finished but that they might, in the future, call her back for further questioning. If anything were to sink her career with Starfleet, it would be having made a deal with the Borg. Or that Rudy Ransom business. She had told them it was 'better to deal with the Devil you know than the one you don't'. She was well aware that the Borg was a major threat to life everywhere. But anyone who could make the Borg 'get out of a Klingon bar before the Blood Wine ran out' was an even bigger threat.

Species 8472 were so distinctly alien to anything the Federation had ever known. To them, humanoids were vermin to be exterminated. The survival of the Borg would perhaps stop an invasion of 8472 long enough for The Federation to prepare for them by the time they decided to invade. Which she was certain would come at some time in the future. As for the Borg, they would be too busy keeping Species 8472 at bay to bother with the Alpha Quadrant for a long time, giving the Federation time to put measures in force that would stop them. This, by the way, was moot, since their hubs, and possibly their Queen, were destroyed.

As for Ransom, she had no longer considered him Starfleet. He was a mass murderer, and his crew had proven that they were accomplices, as they would not cooperate in stopping him. Noah Lessing had cooperated in the murders. He could not use the old excuse, 'I was only following orders' as was evident by his refusal to help Voyager stop the murders. She had to use any means necessary to stop Ransom from murdering even more of the beings and to keep him from harming her crewmembers taken captive, Seven of Nine and The Doctor. She would not leave any of her crew behind if there were any way to get them back without jeopardizing her ship. She did not regret that she had led Lessing to believe he would die, but if you were to question Tuvok, he would tell you that he had set up a force field that would surround Lessing when one of the creatures appeared. Her only regret was that she did not have Commander Chakotay locked up for overriding her decision. She had to decide which was the lesser evil, mental manipulation of a murderous cohort of Ransom, or failing to save the lives of innocent beings. She would let history be the judge.

She could tell that her statement "Let history be the judge" did not sit well with a few of the admirals. They squirmed in their seats and would not meet her eyes, all of them taking a drink of water as if they were automations on a timer, synchronized to perform the same function on cue. They knew that if for any reason she were punished too severely, or punished at all, for this 'transgression' they would be on trial with the public throughout the Federation. Now, she had to wait for their decision regarding her future. Would she be demoted, remain a captain, be expelled from Starfleet, or court marshaled. Frankly, right now she didn't give a damn. She was just too bone tired to think and had a headache to boot.

It was all she could do to drive Phoebe's aero car home. Good thing she had auto navigation or she might not make it home. Now for a long hot soak in the tub, coffee, a little snack, and bed for, at least, the next 9 hours. She had to get her beauty rest. Seven was coming tomorrow to stay for an indefinite period. Janeway had kept in touch with her over the past 2 weeks and was relieved that Seven was enjoying herself, even finding a cousin with whom she was developing a friendship. It seemed as if Seven's cousin, Hiro, had taken the young woman on various excursions around Sweden and Europe. She needed to not dwell on her present problems and to show Seven a good time. She should focus just on Seven and their relationship, which she hoped would go one step further in seriousness and commitment.

She parked the aero car and trudged tiredly up the steps of the front porch. She could hear the two dogs barking a greeting on the other side of the door. She opened the screen door, but before she had a chance to turn the front door knob, it was quickly opened, and she almost fell into the arms of Seven of Nine. Kathryn looked up at the young women, standing against the light in the foyer. Her hair, down, and bathed in the muted light, glowed in a cloud around her face. Kathryn sucked in her breath, dazzled for a moment by the view 'She looks like an Angel'. She put her arms around Seven and stepped wearily into her embrace. Her arms around the young woman's waist, she leaned into her warmth, resting her head on Seven's shoulder.

Seven had her arms around Kathryn, her face against her hair. "Kathryn, you are not well. Come with me and sit on the couch, and I will get Gretchen."

"No darling, I am just very tired, that's all."

Seven took in a breath of delighted surprise at the term 'darling'. She knew that the word denoted someone who was cherished and beloved. She had never heard Kathryn use the term before. She knew Kathryn to be reserved by nature. Seven knew that the sentiment behind the word was sincere. Kathryn would not call her 'darling' unless she felt Seven to be what the word designated.

She kept her left arm around Kathryn's waist and guided her to the couch where Janeway fell back into the cushions.

Gretchen came from the kitchen with a plate of caramel brownies. "Here, Kathryn, this will perk you up. Phoebe is making a pot of coffee for you. Seven, would you care for a cup?"

Seven grimaced slightly. "No thank you, Gretchen, I find I do not appreciate the taste as does Kathryn."

Seven sat on the couch close enough to Kathryn to feel her body heat without actually touching her. Kathryn groaned in ecstasy as she took a big gooey bite of brownie. "Uhm, just what the doctor ordered."

Seven looked confused. "Kathryn, are you ill?"

"No, Seven, just exhausted."

"Why would The Doctor order you to consume caramel brownies?"

Kathryn snickered. "Not 'The Doctor', Seven. It's an old earth expression, meaning what you are doing at that moment makes you feel better."

Seven raised her left eyebrow in contemplation. Kathryn noted she was dressed in a white poet's shirt of light cotton, with a V-neck and sleeves gathered at the elbows. Her hair was down about her shoulders. She looked slightly tanned and fit. "Seven, I thought you were due tomorrow. Is everything all right?"

"Yes, Kathryn. Aunt Irene had a Fall Festival planning meeting to attend today so I decided to come early. I contacted Gretchen, and she stated it would be acceptable and to make sure that I brought my 'appetite' for dinner."

"Well, I'm glad you're here." Kathryn patted Seven on her left knee.

Seven smiled shyly. "As am I, Kathryn".

Phoebe came in carrying a big mug filled with hot black coffee. "Here, Sis, take a swig of this. All the caffeine will boost your energy."

Kathryn took a large gulp and closed her eyes in bliss. "Pheebs, this is as good as I remember, maybe even better".

Seven observed the obvious pleasure on Kathryn's face "Phoebe has instructed me in how to prepare her special brew. Your mother has also instructed me in preparing her caramel brownies. She states she will give me the…honor of cooking the next batch."

Kathryn glanced at her sister. "That's nice of you and Mom. Seven has found a new hobby, cooking."

Phoebe replied. "Mom has also volunteered to teach Seven to cook several dishes." I told Seven the way to a Captain's heart is through their stomach, and she was eager to learn."

Kathryn blurted, "Phoebe."

Phoebe put her hand to cover her mouth and snickered.

Gretchen had just come from the kitchen, having heard the jest on her way to the living room. Seven looked closely at Kathryn's face, which was now a bright red. "Kathryn, you are ill." Looking beseechingly at Gretchen, she said, "Gretchen, Kathryn is ill. Her face is flushed. Perhaps she has a fever. Her face looks similar to Naomi Wildman's when she had a fever." She quickly put her hand on Kathryn's forehead.

Janeway exclaimed, "No Seven, I am not ill nor do I have a fever. My face is flushed because Phoebe can't keep her mouth shut and has embarrassed me. That's all". She shot a force ten glare at her sister who smirked.

Gretchen tried to hide her amusement. "Phoebe, Kathryn has had a hard day and doesn't need you teasing her."

"Hey, I was just trying to cheer her up."

Seven looked at Kathryn in a perplexed way. "I do not understand. What is it Phoebe has done that would embarrass you, Kathryn?"

"Nothing Seven. I'm tired, let's just drop it. Come out and sit on the porch swing with me. I could use some fresh air."

The early September night was cool and dry. Kathryn took a deep breath. The familiar smells of home put her at ease. The drying stalks of corn in the field next to the house rustled slightly in the night breeze. The large leaves of the Sycamore trees around the house clattered against each other. Soon they would fall, and she and Phoebe would rake them in large piles and take them to the mulch pile in the back yard. Seven set silently by her, using her right leg to push the porch swing back and forth, its smooth rocking motion a relaxing balm. Crickets serenaded the night with their trill, an ageless call to attract a mate. "So, Seven, tell me about your visit to your aunt's."

"It was enjoyable. I did not know that I had such a large family."

"Is that a good thing?"

"I believe so. They were all very…kind. Many are in the scientific fields, and we discussed many topics of interest."

"Somehow that does not surprise me, seeing that both of your parents were scientists. Seems to run in the family."

"Indeed."

"Tell me about your cousin, Hiro. You seemed to spend a lot of time with her."

"Her father, Niklas Thorson, was my mother's first cousin. Which makes her my cousin twice removed. Her mother is of Japanese descent. Both are professors at Ikato University. Hiro resides in Japan and is a psychologist. She has found a counselor for me, to assist in my…emotional difficulties."

"I'm glad, Seven. You must have enjoyed her company. Every time we talked, she had taken you somewhere of interest."

"She did. She wanted to show me…a good time. We visited many prominent places in Europe. Stockholm, Copenhagen, Berlin, Paris, and 'caught some rays' on the Riviera."

Kathryn wondered, 'Should I be worried that this is more than 'family' looking out for her?' "I noticed you have a tan."

"Yes, Hiro stated I needed to 'shed' that pale 'Space Face' appearance. She is of the opinion that my tan 'sets off' my hair and eyes and is attractive."

'Uh Oh' "It does, Seven. Of course, you would be attractive without the tan." Kathryn could just make out Seven's smile in the light cast through the living room window.

"Thank you, Kathryn."

"I missed you, Seven."

"I missed you also, Kathryn."

There was an awkward silence. Kathryn thought, 'Gods, I've lost my nerve. Declaring my love is more difficult then I thought.'

Seven looked directly into Kathryn's eyes. "You love me."

Kathryn was momentarily stunned. "What did you say?"

Seven replied firmly, "You love me. When you arrived earlier, you referred to me as 'darling' instead of my name. Darling designates a person who is cherished and beloved does it not?"

Kathryn melted and reached out to stroke Seven's left cheek. "Oh, darling, I very much love you and have for quite some time."

Seven caught Kathryn's right hand, which was on her cheek, and brought it to her lips and kissed the top. "I Love you Kathryn. I, also, have loved you for some time."

Both women were still, almost afraid to move, as though they would break the spell. The golden light from the living room window was enough for Kathryn to see into Seven's eyes, which burned with a silver fire. Kathryn closed her eyes and leaned forward, chastely brushing her lips over Seven's. Then drew back enough to break contact but still feel the heat from those luscious lips. She breathed in Seven's breath and leaned in once more to place a longer and firmer kiss. Seven twined her right hand through Kathryn's hair and cupped the back of her head, pulling her more firmly into the kiss. Both women parted their lips slightly in an invitation to explore further. Kathryn freed her right hand from Seven's grasp and then wrapped both arms around her, pulling Seven tightly against her, breast to breast. Seven pushed her tongue gently between Kathryn's lips and softly stroked her tongue, warm wet softness against warm wet softness. This was more than she could process. She let go of the analytical part of herself that was always there standing on the outside of any personal interaction she had with others, accessing, scrutinizing, and dissecting her actions and emotions. She immersed herself in emotion and senses: Touch, and tasting her mouth, feeling the heat and softness of her body, hearing her muffled deep groans. Kathryn groaned and pulled away to catch her breath, looking into Seven's eyes, now half lidded with desire, the pupils large and dark, holding her enthralled. "Oh darling, you take my breath away." Kathryn felt a quivering in her stomach that sent tendrils of desire up to her chest and down to her groin. Seven pulled Kathryn back to hold her in a tight embrace; hungrily claiming her mouth, her tongue hot and firm in its caresses against her own. Seven stood up and pulled Kathryn off the swing and hugged her more firmly, molding Kathryn against herself, wanting to take all that Kathryn was into herself and needing to pour all that she felt into Kathryn.

Once again, Kathryn broke their kiss, breathing harshly. "Seven, we need to stop. I don't want anyone to come out and catch us, and I need to sit down and catch my breath. You've taken it away." Seven sat back on the swing, her breathing shallow. She felt her heart drumming hard against her rib cage, heat in her stomach and groin. She did not analyze these sensations, as she would have normally done, measuring pulse, temperature, and respiration. Some core part of her that had never been assimilated, never known by the collective, that had never been awake, was now very much in control. This part of her instinctively knew this was desire, lust, and the knowledge that she had found her mate, her beloved.

Kathryn scooted closer to Seven and leaned against the young woman's side laying her head back against Seven's right shoulder. Seven slipped her arms around Kathryn's waist and pulled her closer against her, placing both hands on her stomach. Seven nuzzled the auburn hair and Kathryn felt her breath tickle her left ear and shivered. "I wish to continue kissing you, Kathryn."

Kathryn rested her arms on top of Seven's and placed her hands over both of hers. "Uhm, darling, there will be more kisses. I can guarantee you that. But we need to slow down, or this could lead to something we're both not ready for."

"You are referring to copulation. Why must we 'slow down'? I believe we both are ready to mutually engage in that activity."

Before Kathryn could reply, she was momentarily startled by the porch light turning on and the sound of the front door opening. Kathryn sat up straight, breaking contact with Seven, as Phoebe was coming out the front door. "Hey, you two, let me take a holo snap or two."

"Pheebs, not when I'm worn to a frazzle, and look like I've been dragged through a plasma conduit."

Phoebe would not be stymied. "Come on, Sis, if you don't like them, I will delete them. Hey, Seven, you won't mind, will you? Just put your arm around her shoulder and pretend that you like her."

Seven gave Phoebe a cold appraising look. "I do not need to…pretend. I love Kathryn, and she loves me."

Phoebe theatrically sucked in her breath. "Oh my dear, didn't any one tell you? Starfleet Captains have a girl in every port?"

Seven replied, "You are being facetious."

Kathryn smirked. "Of course she is, darling. It is artists who have a different girl on their arm at every gallery opening."

"Well, I have an image to maintain."

"Boy, you set yourself up with that one, Pheebs. But I will be nice."

"If you want to be nice, let me take your picture."

Kathryn sighed. "Will you leave us alone if I do?"

Phoebe pretended she was undecided and then gave in. "Hmm. Maybe...for now." Kathryn put her left arm around Seven's waist, and Seven put her right arm around Kathryn's shoulder and pulled her close. "Ok, smile…You're not smiling. Come on you two, you are supposed to be happy. Look into each other's eyes now." Kathryn and Seven gazed into each other's eyes and smiled. "Got it." She then hurried over and hugged her sister and then Seven. "I'm really happy you two finally came to your senses,and Mom will be too. Let me call her out here. "MOM, COME QUICK, AND BRING THAT SHOTGUN! We'uns is gonna have a wedding."

Kathryn yelled "PHOEBE!"

Seven looked at Kathryn and replied, "I would like a wedding, Kathryn, but I do not understand why we would need a shotgun."

Kathryn just dropped her head into her hands and groaned.

Chapter Nine

Janeway looked in the mirror at her reflection and straightened her uniform. She was wearing the current design with the gray jacket over the red command shirt. It had only been 4 days since the debriefing had ended. She got a call yesterday to be at Starfleet today at 10:00 am and go to room 24. This was the same room where her debriefing had been held. She was somewhat apprehensive, wondering if they had more questions for her, or if a decision had been made. She had planned a trip today with Seven to see the Grand Canyon, earth's biggest ditch as Daddy called it.

The night of their admission of their love for one another and the announcement to Phoebe and her mother, Kathryn had retired to bed, and Seven had decided to regenerate a night early. The next morning she took Seven for a walk to discuss some important issues regarding their relationship. Janeway wanted to take things slow. Not for her sake but for Seven's. She felt the young woman needed time to know what she was getting into. Seven had never really seen her, warts and all. Seven would have none of it. Seven had arched her left eyebrow. "Kathryn, perhaps it is you who wishes not to have a committed relationship with me." Janeway assured her that was not the case. Seven then proceeded to dissect all of her arguments. In the end, Seven prevailed, and they were now engaged to be married on an as yet undecided future date. Gretchen was delighted. And was pushing for a May or June wedding, which was only eight to nine months away. Phoebe stated she would be in charge of the decorations and had two places for the ceremony in mind, the Community Hall or the Old Friendship Church that dated back to the early 20th century. Nothing was settled as of yet, but she was sure Mom and Phoebe would "work" on Seven to do what they thought was best. Seven had called her Aunt Irene to announce her engagement. Irene also had her ideas where the event should take place, in the garden of a small local church. She informed Seven that she would just have to wear her great grandmother's wedding gown. She would go and get it out of storage as soon as possible. Seven next called her cousin, Hiro, and told her the good news. Janeway secretly thought 'let her know Seven is taken, just in case she had ideas'. Janeway would have much preferred going to a Justice of the Peace, but when she suggested this, three pairs of eyes stared at her as if she had uttered a profanity in church. She left the decision to Seven. Whatever Seven wanted was fine with her. Despite the entire row about the nuptials, Kathryn was elated. Having Seven love her was even more exciting then getting her first ship or her Captain's pips.

The next topic discussed was taking their relationship to the sexual level, or copulation, as Seven termed it. Kathryn had asked her to please use the term 'making love'. Copulation was just too clinical and made her think of two lab rats in an experiment. Seven wanted to initiate it right away. "My room can be utilized for this function, or we can utilize your room."

Kathryn, ever the romantic, wanted to plan a little vacation somewhere private and exclusive, away from the all seeing eyes of Phoebe and all hearing ears of her mother. "Darling, I want it to be just the two of us in a private setting; I don't want to have to sneak around to your room like an adolescent."

Seven's reply was, "Why would we need to… 'sneak around'? We are engaged, and in many cultures, especially on earth, couples 'make love' before matrimony."

Kathryn's response was, "Darling, please, just let me have my way in this." She then put her arms around Seven's neck and drew her close, whispering sultrily in her ear, "I'll make sure, very sure, you won't regret it."

Seven smiled. "Very well."

It did not get past Janeway that she was acting like the reluctant virgin from one of her romance novels, and Seven the eager and experienced lover. Knowing Seven, she had more than likely downloaded and read every iota on lesbian sexual pleasure, and Seven would be the one teaching her a thing or two…or more. Kathryn had to admit their late night make-out sessions on the porch swing made her want to drag Seven to the nearest bed and completely ravish her. In six days time they would be leaving for an exclusive little Villa in the Greek Isles for a week of romantic bliss and plenty of ravishing.

Kathryn hurried down the stairs, loudly announcing, "I'm leaving."

Seven came out of the dining room where she was assisting Gretchen in creating corn shuck wreaths for fall decorations. Kathryn put her arms around Seven's waist and demanded, "Give me a kiss for luck."

"I do not believe in luck."

"Well, give me a kiss anyway." Seven pressed Janeway against her and leaned down to firmly press her lips against Kathryn's in a long passionate kiss.

"Seven, if you keep kissing her like that, she will be late."

Janeway tore her lips away from Seven's, her face red. "Mom."

Gretchen grinned. "If you get a break, try to call us to let us know what is happening."

"I will, Mom." Kathryn gave her a mom a quick hug and took Seven's hand and pulled her towards the door. "See me off, darling."

Seven accompanied Kathryn to Phoebe's aero car. She put her arms around Kathryn's waist and kissed her again, not as long as the last one. "Kathryn, I will wait for you to come home."

Kathryn stroked her cheek. "Darling, I don't know how long I will be."

"I do not care. I will be up when you get here."

They kissed one last time, and Kathryn got in the driver's seat and, waving to Seven, headed for the Transporter Station.

"…..and in view of the tough decisions you had to make on your own while in the Delta Quadrant, along with your ability to weld two divergent crews, one not Starfleet, into one crew governed by Starfleet Principals and your leadership ability, we believe you can best serve Starfleet in a position where you can apply your expertise in helping our organization to rebuild following the Dominion War. It is our decision to promote you to Admiral. Congratulations, 'Admiral' Janeway."

Admiral Paris chuckled. "Admiral Janeway, do you have anything you want to add."

Janeway sat across from the five Admirals with a stunned expression on her face. Quickly regaining her composure, she replied, "May I have time to think it over?"

Admiral Nechevey glared. "Janeway, we need you in a position of responsibility as soon as possible. We have a fleet to rebuild, and we need you to oversee the training of officers to man that fleet."

Admiral Ross added, "I can understand your desire, Captain. I, too, want to stand on a ship's deck again. If times were different then that would be a possibility. Now, it is of paramount importance to get our fleet up and running. We not only have the Dominion to contend with, but the Breen and perhaps threats from the Delta Quadrant. We don't know how badly the Borg were damaged, and there is always the threat from Species 8127."

Janeway smirked. "In other words, I have no choice."

Admiral Sylvanus scrutinized her with his dark eyes and answered, "You always have a choice…Captain. We need a command officer on Deep Space Four and one on Rigel 2."

Janeway inwardly shuddered. 'The two worst Hell Holes of the Quadrant.' "I accept, with one condition, that I am allowed the next two weeks off. I need to finish some personal business."

Admiral Paris agreed. "I don't see any pressing need for you to start right away. This will give us time to set your office up and find you a list of Aides to choose from."

Admiral Ross stated, "One more item we need to discuss with you. We understand that you are the legal guardian of Seven of Nine. We would like to arrange a time for her to meet with a few Starfleet officials to be debriefed".

Janeway paused for a few moments. "That can be arranged. I would have to consult with her legal counsel first for any...stipulations he may require in having Seven...debriefed."

Ross nodded. "Understood, Admiral." Janeway inclined her head. "I will get back with you as soon as I have an answer."

Kathryn parked the aero car by the side of the house. She heard Phoebe squealing in the back yard and walked back to see what was causing the ruckus. Phoebe and Seven had an old washtub filled with sudsy water and were in the process of giving Rufus a bath. Seven had a huge grin on her face as Phoebe was trying to keep Rufus from jumping out. Phoebe had soapsuds in her hair and on the front of her shirt. Seven somehow had escaped getting very drenched but did manage to get the front of her red sweatshirt wet and a few soapsuds on her pair of cut off jeans. Her hair was pulled back in a ponytail, and Kathryn thought she looked adorable. Seven was holding the water hose with her hand on the spray nozzle. "Quick, Seven, rinse him before he runs off." Seven carefully approached both the soaped-up dog and Phoebe, who was trying to keep him from making a break for it. Seven quickly rinsed the suds off Rufus and jumped back. Phoebe let go of Rufus' collar but was not quick enough to get away before Rufus shook himself from nose to tail, showering her with cold water. "Ugh, now I will have to get a shower and change clothes." Kathryn laughed, causing both Seven and Phoebe to look up. Seven dropped the water hose, bounded towards Janeway, and gave her a quick hug, stepping back and assessing her. "You are back earlier than I anticipated. Did your meeting proceed to a satisfactory conclusion?"

Kathryn smiled wryly. "That's a matter of opinion. Why don't we go into the house…I have something I need to tell all of you, and I need to sit down to do it."

Phoebe exclaimed concernedly, "Gee, Sis, now you got me worried." Seven took Janeway's hand and proceeded to walk with her to the house.

Once in the door Phoebe went to find Gretchen, and all four women took a seat in the living room, Janeway next to Seven, still holding on to her hand. Gretchen was concerned. "Kathryn, what happened?"

Janeway kept her poker face and asked, "Do you want the good news first or the bad news?"

Seven quipped, "Kathryn, the order that you relay the information in is irrelevant".

Janeway replied, "The good news is I'm not going to get court martialed."

Gretchen stated, "I didn't think you would be, Kathryn."

"Prepare yourself for the bad news. I got promoted to Admiral."

Phoebe screamed, and Gretchen came over and gave her daughter a hug. Seven stoically replied, "What does this mean for us, Kathryn?"

Janeway hugged her. "It means we will be sticking around on earth for a long time now that I won't have a ship."

Seven looked closely at Kathryn. "You are not pleased."

Janeway shrugged her shoulders. "Well, Seven, it was that or having the choice of being commander of one of two places I wouldn't send my worst enemy." Janeway wryly added, "I will adapt."

Chapter Ten

Seven held Kathryn's hand as they walked upon the golden sandy shore of the aqua green lagoon. Seven thought this was indeed an aesthetically pleasing place to take her and Kathryn's relationship to a newer level of expression. Kathryn looked so beautiful in her loose white shirt and white knee length cotton pants. She was mesmerized for a moment by the red setting sun adding more fire to Kathryn's wind tousled hair. Tonight would be their first night of 'making love'. Seven was both excited and apprehensive. Why these two emotions should be in tandem baffled her. Kathryn leaned against her smiling. "Let's get back before it gets dark. I'm famished. I'll order the restaurant to bring us something to eat. Would you like anything in particular?"

Seven brushed her loose hair out of her face and, looking at Kathryn, stated, "You choose for me, Kathryn. I do not believe I have ever ingested nutrients from this culture."

Kathryn placed the order while Seven took a sonic shower. She returned to the patio dressed in a knee length light blue silk robe, tied at the waist with a matching sash, hair loose about her shoulders. Kathryn looked her slowly over, noting how the color suited her. Kathryn informed her to keep a lookout for their food order while she took a warm shower. She dried herself off, pulled on a soft green caftan with embroidery around the neck, and joined Seven on the screened in patio. Seven ran her hands down and then back up Kathryn's body, giving an appraising look. "You look …beautiful, Kathryn."

Kathryn smiled. "Thank you, darling. Uhm that smells delicious." Kathryn pulled out a chair from the small, round, blue and white mosaic table and seated herself across from Seven. Soon both women were enjoying skewed lamb with small pieces of braised bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, and eggplant. There, also, was a fresh Greek salad with feta cheese, pita bread, and a side plate of Greek olives and grape leaves stuffed with spicy rice. To drink, they had a mixture of apricot and citrus juice.

"This is very good, Kathryn."

"I'm glad you approve. Wait until you have a piece of the dessert." Both women enjoyed the last rays of the setting sun over the Aegean. The sky was streaked with various shades of rose and lavender, the sea a wine-red and purple.

Kathryn got up and took a small pot of coffee she had ordered over to the chaise lounge and sat down, putting the pot on a mosaic coffee table the same color as the small breakfast table. "Darling, why don't you bring the plate of pastries over here and sit by me." Seven placed the plate of pastries on the coffee table and sat beside Kathryn, her right hip and leg touching Kathryn. Kathryn poured herself a cup of the strong Greek coffee. She reached over to the plate and removed a small square flaky pastry covered with honey. Seven watched her take a bite and then close her eyes. "Uhm, almost as good as caramel brownies. Here, have a bite." Kathryn held out the piece of pasty close to Seven's mouth.

Seven took a bite between her teeth. Her eyebrows arched up, and the corners of her mouth turned up in a pleased smile. "This is delicious, what is it? "

"It's called Baklava and is made of layers of flaky pastry and honey." Kathryn put the rest of the piece in her mouth and chewed. Her fingers were sticky with the thick honey. "Let me go over to the table and get some napkins. This can get messy." Before she could get up, Seven reached for Kathryn's right hand and brought her confection covered fingers to her lips, placing one finger at a time in her mouth and licking the honey off of each one. Kathryn drew in her breath. The sight of those luscious lips covering her fingers and the feel of Seven's tongue caressing each one sent a jolt of desire through her body. Kathryn looked into Seven's eyes and then closed her own and leaned forward, placing a gentle kiss on the honey covered lips and gently running her tongue on first the top and then the bottom to remove every drop. Seven pulled her close and deepened their kiss, her tongue darting out to touch Kathryn's. Seven's hands stroked up and down her back. Kathryn moved her hands down Seven's sides and then to her stomach, undoing the belt that held her robe closed. She opened the front of the robe, and her hands encountered smooth warm flesh instead of the nightwear she was expecting. She stopped abruptly in surprised delight and then ran her hands up Seven's sides until she felt the warm swell of her breasts. Her hands moved over the silken warm skin at the tops of Seven's breasts, palms spread. She stroked over the hard puckered nipples and stopped, taking the fullness of each breast in her hands and gently squeezing. She caught Seven's moan in her mouth. Seven pulled away and looked at her, eyes round and bright in the dusk. No words needed to be said.

Seven stood and pulled Kathryn up and led her to the bedroom then she lay herself on the cool coverlet, her robe fallen open and her breathing rapid with desire, causing her breast to rise and fall. She pulled Kathryn on top of her, wrapping her arms tightly around her, and kissed her again, mouth parted and devouring her lover's lips, pulling from her a whimper. Seven wanted more. She wanted to feel all of Kathryn against her. She reached down as far as her hands could go and pulled the caftan up. Kathryn lifted slightly, and Seven slid it over her arms and head and threw it off the bed. Then Seven rolled over, placing Kathryn beneath her and sat up on her knees, between Kathryn's legs. She gazed transfixed, her lips open, her pupils large with desire, want, and need. "You are beautiful, Kathryn." She placed her hands over Kathryn's breasts, feeling their firmness and the hardness of her nipples. Kathryn reached up and pulled Seven down, one arm around her waist pulling tight, the other twined in her bright hair, holding her head as Seven's lips were once more feeding Kathryn's need.

This time Kathryn turned them over. Straddling Seven's thighs, she got up on her knees, and explored the young woman's body with her eyes and hands. "So very beautiful." She gently touched a small star burst above Seven's left breast and leaned down and reverently kissed it. She moved her cheek against Seven's left breast, feeling the softness and warmth. She turned her head slightly so that her lips covered Seven's puckered, erect nipple and took it gently between her lips, sucking lightly and flicking her tongue.

Seven groaned and held Kathryn's head closer. "Oh, Kathryn, I…you..." Kathryn went to her other breast and nuzzled underneath, rubbing her face lightly back and forth. She moved up to the nipple and, placing her lips around it, gently nipped. Seven arched, letting out a long, "Ahhh". Kathryn returned to Seven's mouth, once again plundering it. She moaned deep in her throat, the sound caught by Seven and echoed back again into Kathryn's mouth. Kathryn left her lips, placed soft kisses on the implant above her eye, moving on to Seven's right jaw, where she gently kissed the starburst. She placed soft kisses down Seven's shoulder and over her collar bone, going to the implant on Seven's right bicep and leaving a kiss there. She moved further down Seven's torso, her breath wafting warm against Seven's skin. She moved to Seven's right thigh to run her tongue over the teardrop shaped area of mesh. Then Kathryn came to Seven's apex and breathed deeply the womanly scent of arousal. She moaned deep in her throat and placed light kisses on the inside of each thigh. Seven clinched at the coverlet, and Kathryn moved her left hand to grasp Seven's right. Kathryn moved her right hand down to Seven's center, stroking gently through her golden pubic hair. Seven whimpered loudly and pulled her legs up. Kathryn parted the wet folds of her labia and gently placed her tongue in the wet cleft, gathering up Seven's essence. Kathryn placed her mouth over Seven's clitoris and gently sucked, sliding her tongue slowly back and forth, Seven sucked in a sharp breath and pulled her right hand free from Kathryn's grasp and ran her hand through the auburn hair and cupped the back of Kathryn's head to bring her more firmly against the source of her heat. Kathryn reached both hands under Seven's buttocks and brought her more firmly against her face. Then she buried her tongue in the well of Seven's wetness and feasted. Seven's breath came in short gasps. Her left hand clutched frantically at the coverlet as she felt the rise of sharp pleasure, her body straining, searching for that pinnacle from which she could fall and free herself from this delicious ache. Her groan burst out loudly, raw and primal, from deep inside her chest. She was pierced with a pleasure so intense she saw myriad lights beneath her eyelids, and her body heaved in its release. Seven thought she would die from this. Kathryn continued to love her, and Seven was caught once more in an explosion of light and feeling.

She was spent. She could not move. Her breath was harsh in her chest. Never, never had she felt like this. She was awed by the power of this manifestation of love, of Kathryn's love. She felt Kathryn move up her body and wrap her arms around her, kissing the tears from her right eye, Kathryn murmuring, "Oh my Angel, you were amazing, so beautiful when you came, so very beautiful." Seven put her arms around Kathryn and held her close, Kathryn stroking her face and placing small, sweet kisses on her eyes, cheeks, and lips.

Kathryn lay on her back, sifting Seven's hair through her fingers and placing kisses on top of her head, which rested on her left shoulder. Seven lay on her left side, snuggled up against Kathryn, her right leg thrown over Kathryn's hips and her right hand stroking Kathryn's left breast and running her finger around the puckered nipple. Seven rose up and straddled Kathryn's hips, her legs tucked under her, and leaned down on her elbows, staring into Kathryn's eyes. "I…cannot find the words to … express the way you made…make me feel. It was more then anything I ever experienced. Even more then the elation I experienced when I observed the Omega Molecule. Thank you, my beloved Kathryn."

Before Kathryn could reply, Seven placed a searing kiss on her lips, parting them with her tongue, and seeking the heat within. Kathryn twined her arms around Seven's shoulders and brought her down to cover her, breasts pressing on breasts, abdomen on abdomen. She needed to feel the solidness and heat of her lover. To confirm that she was real and this was not somehow a dream, a fantasy. Seven again placed her weight on her elbows and withdrew from Kathryn's lips. Looking into eyes, now blue with desire, she undulated slowly, rubbing her full breasts over Kathryn's, their pubic hair tangling and pulling. Kathryn caught her breath and let it out as a long moan. "Make love to me Darling, I need you to…take me."

Seven's warm breath tickled Kathryn's lips. "Yes." She kissed Kathryn's swollen and tender lips for a moment, and then releasing them, said, "You will guide me in learning how to pleasure you."

Kathryn drew her back down for a long and searing kiss. They both parted to breath once again. "Darling…place your hand between my legs and touch me."

Seven slipped to her side, sliding her right hand across Kathryn's abdomen and through her pubic hair, coming to rest on slick warm wetness. She moved her fingers through the wetness, sliding back and forth between the labia and stroking the swollen clitoris. Kathryn moaned and pulled down Seven's head to her breasts. Seven nuzzled the soft breast, taking a swollen nipple in her mouth, sucking and lightly grazing it with her teeth. Kathryn shivered a bit with a need for release, her center straining against Seven's hand. "UHHH, Oh Yes, darling, place your finger inside me." Seven's middle finger easily slid through the silky wetness, her palm rubbing Kathryn's clitoris. "Ohh, another finger, darling." Seven slid her ring finger in. Continuing to rub, she moved her head to the other breast and began her loving of it. "Harder, darling, rub harder." Seven increased the tempo and pressure. Kathryn began to raise her hips and undulate. She grasped Seven's hair, her fingers digging into her scalp. Kathryn's breath was coming in short harsh gasps, all of her focus channeled to the intense core of carnal fire between her legs. Seven's mouth tugging her nipple the catalyst that shattered her into a million pieces of sensation. Seven felt the smooth warm walls clamp her fingers in a protracted hold, followed by a warm gush of liquid. She felt Kathryn loosen the tenseness of her body and heard a long guttural sigh. Kathryn relaxed her hold on Seven's head. Seven removed her head from Kathryn's breasts and her soaked warm fingers from the source of Kathryn's heat. She brought them to her nose to inhale. Kathryn's essence triggered an ancient instinct of mating and bonding. She moved down Kathryn's body and spread her legs further, taking Kathryn in her mouth, her tongue penetrating the source and eagerly tasting and drinking her nectar. Seven heard a sob as Kathryn drew up her legs, opening herself wide for Seven to take all that she needed and all that Kathryn could give. Seven withdrew her tongue and licked up and down Kathryn's opening then suckled her clitoris, and once again penetrated Kathryn with two fingers. They moved in a rhythmic counter balance, Seven's suckling motion and fingers and Kathryn's hips. Kathryn harshly sucked in her breath and shuddered, releasing herself to Seven's ministrations. She reached down, pulled Seven up into her arms, and pressed her mouth to Seven's, tasting her own essence. This time it was Seven who wrapped her arms around Kathryn and drew her head down to her breasts, neither woman speaking, not wanting to disturb that warm and loving place they shared together.

Chapter Eleven

Seven pulled the silky, blue-colored half slip up her legs and over her lacy, bikini cut panties. She took the long, formfitting sapphire-blue silk dress off the hanger and slid it over her head and settled it around her, smoothing it down and checking the fit in the mirror. She arranged the shoulder straps and adjusted the fit of her breasts into the built-in support. The neck plunged halfway down her cleavage. She turned to look at the back, noting the backless and daring plunge going to her waist, showing a small starburst at her left shoulder blade. There was a slit in the left side from the hem to just below the hip, and when moving it exposed a small mesh implant above her knee. She felt self conscious, and debated if she should wear something that exposed the majority of her Borg implants, from her left arm with mesh on her hand extending to her elbow to her starburst on her right bicep and the one on her back. She decided if they did not bother Kathryn then why should she worry. This was the official Voyager Welcome Home banquet and celebration of Kathryn's ceremonial promotion to Admiral. Phoebe had found the dress in some boutique on a recent trip to an art show on Alpha Centuri. She said it had Seven's name written all over it, but she could not find her name anywhere even using the infrared filters in her implant. She decided this must be another euphemism. Kathryn had told her to try it and if she did not like it, she could always wear the new sky-blue one. As she was checking the fit, Kathryn came into the guest room from taking a shower. She was wearing her mint green terry cloth robe. Kathryn abruptly stopped and gave a low whistle, smiling widely. "Oh my, you look stunning, darling. I'm really going to have my work cut out, keeping all the admirers at bay." Seven smiled back, her mind made up to wear the dress.

Kathryn retrieved her new Starfleet dress whites, which were lying on the bed. The short white jacket with gold trim and a red band around the wrist, the white shirt to wear underneath, and the black trousers with a red stripe bordered by gold trim down each leg. She still would wear her Captain's pips until they were removed and replaced with an Admiral's bar at the ceremony tonight. Seven brushed out her hair until it was shining and lay sensually around her shoulders. She watched Kathryn's reflection in the mirror, noting how her tan face and scattering of freckles were offset by the white shirt and how fit and beautiful she looked. Seven also had lightly tanned in the Mediterranean sunshine. They had been back just six days from their trip to Patmos. Seven had experienced many wonderful first times, ones that she would repeat frequently with Kathryn, especially now that Kathryn had moved from her room to the one Seven occupied. When they had returned Kathryn had taken the luggage up to her room, with Seven right behind her carrying her own. Kathryn, seeing Seven enter her bedroom and putting her bags by the closet, immediately understood what was happening. She had protested that they could not share a room as her mother slept right down the hall. Seven informed her that Gretchen already knew that they went to Greece to 'make love' so why would it matter. Kathryn's face turned red, and she retorted that her mother knew no such thing. Seven stated she had informed Gretchen that they planned the trip to 'make love'. Gretchen instructed her to have a good time but make sure they left the bed long enough to eat regularly. Then Seven added.,"To keep up our strength." Kathryn did not have any excuse then not to move into the guest room with Seven, as that was where her alcove was. Besides, she did not want to disturb her mother's sleep with any noise they might make. Seven took this to mean their making love, as they both were vocal at certain points in the process.

There was a knock on the door and Phoebe's voice inquiring if everyone was decent. When informed that they were, she opened the door, carrying a small box. Seeing Seven, she, too, let out a whistle. "Oh my Gods, Kathryn, you can't let her go out looking like that; there will be a brawl over her."

Kathryn smirked. "Believe me, Seven can take care of herself, but if anyone below admiral steps out of line, I'll space them. However, Pheebs, I'll depend on you to flay any top brass who get fresh".

"Not a bad idea. I'll peel off any of the cute ones for myself."

"If Alynna Nechayev is your idea of cute, then start peeling."

"Gods, that woman scares me. Bet she would throw you down, snap your bones, and suck out the marrow."

Seven raised one eyebrow and wondered why Nechayev would do that. She did notice Phoebe looked aesthetically pleasing with her thick chestnut hair hanging smoothly past her shoulders, wearing a light green Bajoran dress smock and darker green loose trousers. "Phoebe, you are aesthetically pleasing in that…ensemble."

"Why thank you, Seven, I know if you are telling me that then it is true. Now sit down so I can put a little red on those gorgeous lips."

Kathryn exclaimed, "As long as you don't tart her up like a Dabo girl".

"I'm an artist. I don't do cheap space habitat trash". Phoebe stood back to admire her work. "Da Dah! Now Sis, how does that look? "

Kathryn put her brush down and looked at those luscious lips. "I just hope that's the kissable kind. I don't want it all over my face when I go up on the stage to make my speech."

Chapter Twelve

Starfleet cadets in their dress whites were at the huge entrance door to greet arrivals and park their various vehicles. Phoebe drove this time. Sitting next to her was Gretchen, dressed in a light lilac pantsuit with crystal glass beads sewn around the bodice. A young cadet opened the door and reached out his gloved hand to assist her from the car. A cadet also opened the back door to assist Seven. He extended his hand and took her right to assist her from her seat. Seven stood waiting for Janeway to exit the car. She had brushed aside the hand of the young cadet, giving her a force ten glare. Janeway also had to glare at two of the valets, who stood open mouthed with their eyes appraising her fiancée. One of the two noticed her glare, quickly springing to attention and saluting. "Welcome Sir." This caused the second to come out of his stupor and salute. "Sir". Janeway then ignored them, placed her left arm along Seven's, and took her hand.

The door was opened by two more cadets, allowing the women to enter. There were many of her crew and their family and friends in the lobby. Seeing Janeway, they started to clap. Gretchen saw an old friend, and Phoebe went to look for some refreshment. Tom and B'Elanna noticed them and walked over. Tom eyed Seven and stated, "Seven, you look fantastic. That color looks great on you".

Seven inclined her head slightly. "Thank you, Lieutenant Paris."

Tom stepped back. "Please, Seven, call me Tom. We're not on ship anymore."

"Very well, Tom."

B'Elanna smiled, looking at Janeway's hand linked with Seven's. "So, Captain, is there something you want to tell us?"

Janeway gave her a dead pan look. "What do you mean?"

B'Elanna snorted. "Ok, be that way. Hey, Seven, is there something you want to tell us?"

Seven lifted her left eyebrow. "Should there be?"

B'Elanna turned back to Janeway and stated. "I'm part Klingon, don't forget. We have ways of making you talk."

Janeway smirked. "I'll remember you said that when you need me to babysit Miral. How is my youngest crewmember?"

Tom chimed in. "She's a doll. That is when she's asleep and not screaming like a wildcat for something to eat."

"Must get that from her mother. I'll catch up with you two later. There are more families of my crew I would like to meet." Janeway, still holding Seven's hand, went to mingle.

Tom stated, "Too bad we were just betting rations on Voyager, or I would've cleaned up."

B'Elanna, gave Tom a hard look and blurted out, "Tell me you didn't have a betting pool on the Captain and Seven getting together.".

Tom pulled his dress white coat collar from his neck and protested, "Err, I…it was a long time ago, before we got married. I swear, B'Elanna. I haven't bet or had a pool since."

B'Elanna crossed her arms and glared at him through slitted eyes, lips pressed together. "Uhmmhuh."

Janeway was the guest of honor and sat at the head table, Seven, Gretchen and Phoebe to her right. Many toasts were made, and Janeway noted that Seven took very small sips of champagne. Finally, after the dinner and dessert was served, eaten, and the plates removed, everyone turned his or her chair to face the small stage. Admiral Paris and Admiral Hayes were on stage to give the official Starfleet speeches on what a great feat Voyager's crew had performed and how this would go down in history. After the speeches different crewmembers' names were called up to receive recognition and promotions. Harry was promoted to a full lieutenant, skipping over the rank of lieutenant junior grade. Tom was made a full lieutenant, also. Tuvok was promoted to a full commander. And B'Elanna was given the rank of lieutenant commander. Janeway had talked to Chakotay earlier, and he told her he had decided to opt out of Starfleet and go back to help his people recover from the Dominion attack. He had spoken briefly to Seven, both very polite and cordial to each other. Janeway noticed that he kept glancing at their clasped hands but did not say anything. He and all the rest would learn soon enough if there was any significance to this gesture.

After all the promotions had been given out, Admiral Paris started praising the merits of one, Captain Kathryn Janeway. Finally, coming to the end of this speech, he announced, "Starfleet has gone through a rough time as everyone knows. We are rebuilding from the devastation of the Dominion wars. We need the best to help us rebuild Starfleet to a standard higher even than before the war. To do this, we need good, strong leaders at the fore It is without doubt a great honor to announce that we have promoted Captain Kathryn Janeway to Admiral"

The rest of his speech was drowned out with applause and cheers. "SPEECH, SPEECH, SPEECH!" Janeway took the stage and held up her right hand for silence. "I accept this position with humbleness and thanks. If it weren't for my crew, all of you, I would not be home today to take this position. I want you to know that each and every one of you assisted in my becoming the person I am today. I learned from you that two divergent groups could be melded into one crew and work together. It is what you taught me that I will take with me into my position as Admiral. Thank you."

The cheers were deafening. Janeway again held up her hand for silence. "I have another announcement to make. I stand up here one of the happiest, if not the happiest, woman today. This happiness was given to me by one special person who, to me, is my heart, and who has agreed to become my wife. Seven, come up here, please." The room again exploded with cheers and claps. Seven left her seat and, in a stately manner, walked to the stage and up the short flight of stairs, taking Janeway's hand at the last step onto the stage. There were a few wolf whistles in the audience. Janeway put her put her left hand on her hip and gave the audience her best force ten stare. "I hope those whistles were meant for me." Which brought on laughter and hoots. Seven looked at Janeway and gave one of her dazzling smiles. The chant went up from the audience, demanding that their former Captain kiss her fiancée. "Kiss her, kiss her, kiss her!" Janeway,who still had Seven's left hand in hers, let it go to pull her into an embrace and said in a whisper, "It's tradition."

Seven raised her left eyebrow and smugly smiled. "Indeed."

The two women stepped into each other's arms and proceeded to kiss chastely for at least 10 seconds, amidst the cheers of Voyager's former crew and their families.

Chapter Thirteen

After two months in her new role as Admiral, Janeway had discovered there was a lot more to the job than sitting behind a desk and attending meetings. You had much more paper work to do, tons of it in fact. She understood now why Admirals had aides and staff assistants. At present, she had two aides, Ensign Tanal Lirila, a young Bajoran woman just out of the academy, and Ensign Daniel (Danny) McElrath, his red hair and Irish brogue a dead giveaway of his country of origin. Under Janeway's command were two new departments; one responsible for analyses of anything having to do with the Borg and another for monitoring possible threats from the Delta Quadrant. She also had the task of reconstructing Starfleet's Advanced Officer Training for those that had been appointed commanders and captains within the past two years, and any in line for upcoming commissions.

Seven had been hired by Starfleet as a civilian expert. It was general knowledge in Starfleet that Janeway and Seven were officially engaged, and there were no accusations or browbeating by the Starfleet officials who interviewed Seven. It did not hurt that her lawyer, M'Tath, accompanied her to each interview. The big seven foot Caitian male, with his lion-like head, four inch incisors, yellow cat-like eyes, and hands sporting retractable three inch claws would make you think twice about putting the screws to his client. Not to mention, he had never lost a case and knew the law inside out. Janeway also oversaw a patrol fleet that monitored the areas surrounding the exit point of the former Borg transwarp hub into the Alpha Quadrant. Neelix was her eyes and ears in the Delta Quadrant, and he was contacted every 32 days through the Midas Array for a report. The contact was made from the Federation end to receivers located at the small Talaxian colony where he had remained. Unfortunately, the receivers did not have the vast amount of energy needed to open up a wormhole so the only time Neelix could transmit and receive was when the Array opened the micro wormhole for five minutes. The power use and the strain on the Array would not allow for frequent or longer contact as the Array was also used to contact far flung outpost in the Alpha and Beta Quadrants.

Janeway was impressed by Neelix's diligence in gathering information from various sources and passing it on. She was thankful that she had had the foresight to appoint him the Delta Quadrant's Ambassador to the Federation. Since the Midas Array was the only way to date to establish communications between the two quadrants, his little colony was quickly becoming an important hub for commerce and Neelix, himself, a very important personage. His reports were sent by communications packets and had been very interesting. Neelix could easily tell whose information was trustworthy and whose made up. He would include it all in his reports, with his observations as to whether he considered the source reliable or charlatans. She had relayed one unreliable story to Seven, how a Murxxian trader swore he saw the Borg Queen on a space station in sector 17 running a betting ring on the Tsunkatsi fights. In fact, according to the trader, she used the knowledge gained from contestants assimilated over the centuries to predict the winners, based on past history of the fighters and their opponents and the won/lost history of each matchup. The Queen was now very wealthy. Seven, though no longer in the collective, was outraged that anyone would consign the Queen to such an 'irrelevant, illogical, and menial endeavor.' She knew the alleged sighting was false. But this didn't stop her outrage that anyone would invent such a fabrication and distribute it. She became even more annoyed when Janeway threw herself on their bed and put a pillow over her face so she could smother her erupting laughter at Seven's reaction. Seven was not amused. She stated she would spend the night in her alcove. Since regenerating was not due for another week, Janeway had no choice but to beg for forgiveness or sleep alone. Begging won hands down.

Janeway set at her desk waiting for the Array to establish communications with the Delta Quadrant. She had her small desk screen operational, and the communication would be transferred to her live. The communications packet transferred by Neelix would be beamed directly to a communications system, to be later analyzed by her or others in Starfleet. Transmission was to begin in '10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1..'.

Neelix's face appeared on the view screen, looking somewhat somber. "Ambassador, it is good to see you again."

Janeway noticed the expression on Neelix's face. "It is good to see you, Admiral. Give my best to Seven and the others. Uh, I have some…interesting news of a personal nature, Admiral."

"What happened Neelix, is everything all right with Dexa and Brax?"

"Oh, things are fine with us and the colony, yes indeed. It concerns you , Admiral. I don't know how to tell you and don't even know for 100 percent, if it is not some kind of hoax."

Janeway set upright in her seat. "Go on Neelix."

"Well, Admiral, you and Tom Paris have a...ah...well, it appears that you and Tom have a...daughter." Janeway reared back slightly in her chair, her face confused. "Am I hearing you right? What is this about a daughter? Is this some kind of Talaxian April Fools' Joke?"

Neelix sighed. "Admiral, you know me. I would never in a million light years joke about something like this. I have sent all the records and information we have on her."

Janeway was both angry at whoever perpetrated this hoax and shocked. "Go on, Neelix."

"Well, seems like that Kurros fellow and his ah...associates..."

"Kurros! I would believe the moon is made of green cheese before I would believe anything he said. He is a con artist. What is he after, Neelix?"

"Well, Admiral, he just wants to talk to you on the Array, ah, about returning her to you. I, I'm sure he wants something, but what, I have no clue."

"You know, Neelix, Tom and I never.. we never did anything that could even remotely lead to producing a child, let alone my carrying one without the whole ship knowing it. This is just some hoax. If you see this Ferengi scam artist, send him packing with a phaser at his back". Beepbeep, '60 seconds until the end of transmission'.

"I sent you the information, Admiral, along with the girl's genetic scan done by our doctor, for your review. Admiral, I will be in contact with you at the same time next transmission for any orders you may have. I must say, she does, ah, look a lot like you, ah, more like you than Tom. Very observant and appears to be intelligent. Images are included in the information." '10 seconds'

"I'll get back to you, Neelix. In the meantime, keep a close eye on our 'friend'."

"I will do that, Admi..." 'End of transmission'.

Janeway pushed her communications button. "Lirila."

"Yes, Admiral."

"I am not to be disturbed for the next hour for any reason, understood?"

"Understood, Admiral."

Part 3

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