Janeway met Seven in the main Transporter Room at 0815 hours the next morning. Tuvok and B’Elanna were to accompany them acting as a loose security detail. B’Elanna carried a small med kit the Doctor had provided containing the irrigation solution and a few sterile dressings in case they had a problem on the surface and could not immediately return to Voyager. Janeway wore her usual uniform and Seven had replicated light gray slacks and a midnight blue silk shirt for the occasion. Both women looked stunning; the stress of the last two weeks not apparent in either.

They were met at the entrance to the Premier’s residence by an aide and escorted into a small, intimate dining room. Premier Tor’vaq and his wife Pel’toor greeted them cordially. When all were seated, Pel’toor nodded to the attending staff and the first course of a sumptuous breakfast was served. Conversation flowed easily, with the Premier and his wife explaining wedding customs of Ma’altara Prime and Janeway outlining Terran custom. The Premier was gracious when informed of the Terran tradition of an engagement period, but seemed willing enough to forgo an official wedding for a betrothal blessing. He inquired if either Janeway or Seven had religious requirements; when informed that neither did he nodded.

“That will uncomplicate matters. Of course, with the blessing of your betrothal you will both become citizens of Ma’altara Prime, and your children will also have full rights of citizenship.”

Pel’toor explained the details of the evening’s ceremony. It was decided that Janeway would wear her dress uniform and Seven would wear traditional Ma’altarean warrior garb. Arrangements were made for Seven to be fitted for her garments at the main garrison complex later in the morning. The meeting and meal went smoothly, and was concluded by the Premier and his wife inviting Janeway and Seven to spend the night at the Premier’s residence after the ceremony. There was a reception planned for immediately after the ceremony and a formal breakfast for the following morning. The Captain and Seven agreed, and arranged to rejoin the Premier and his wife at 1830 hours that night.

As they left the residence, Janeway asked Tuvok and B’Elanna if they would mind accompanying Seven and her to the main market area of the city. Neither had objections and the four strolled along a broad avenue enjoying the morning sunshine. It seemed like every person they passed smiled broadly and wished them well. Several military officers saluted Seven and made a point of congratulating her. Janeway was amazed at the ease with which Seven dealt with them. She was gracious in responding to their praise, but expressed regret at the loss of life the ritual had caused. Most nodded in agreement, declaring Pal’quaar a fool and generally deserving of his fate. Many indicated they would be in attendance at the ceremony that night.

As they passed an official-looking building they heard their names called. They turned to see Captain Ta’arqual coming down the steps of the building. It was the main garrison building, and he was to oversee the fitting of Seven’s clothing for the ceremony. After agreeing to meet at a café in two hours, B’Elanna, Seven and Ta’arqual entered the garrison building and Janeway and Tuvok continued on to the marketplace.

Ta’arqual introduced them to several other officers of his cadre on their way to the military tailor. Once there, Seven was fitted with a pair of snug white breeches, knee-high black boots, a high-collared white shirt and a hip-length robe of deep blue which was worn overlapped across the chest and secured with a wide sash. She was initially reluctant to wear a military uniform, claiming she had no right to do so.

“You earned the right when you defeated Pal’quaar,” Ta’arqual said simply. The tailor nodded.

Ta’arqual explained a tradition that members of the warrior’s cadre would escort the warrior to the joining ceremony. The warrior’s mate would usually be escorted by family. He requested that his cadre be allowed to escort Seven of Nine. She gently refused, claiming that if she required an escort, she wished B’Elanna to do so. Ta’arqual was disappointed but gracious.

Once the fitting was completed, they adjourned to the Officer’s Mess where other members of Ta’arqual’s cadre had gathered. Glasses of wine were passed around and the traditional Ma’altarean toast for marital happiness was made to Seven. When the glasses were drained, Ta’arqual explained to them that Seven wished B’Elanna to escort her that night.

“Is she a warrior?” asked one of the officers. Whereupon Lt. Torres stood up to her full height and gave them a discourse on the Klingon warrior tradition. When she finished, she was immediately ‘commissioned’ as an honorary member of the cadre and hustled off to be fitted for her own garments. B’Elanna and the cadre would escort Seven as was fitting. They filled the remaining time recounting stories of Voyager’s journey home; most notably Janeway’s handling of the Borg. The cadre was impressed.

Janeway and Tuvok discovered that the marketplace was a large square surrounded by shops of every kind. The center of the square held an ornate fountain with benches around it. It was tree-shaded and paved with smoothed blocks of the local gray rock. They strolled around, visiting several of the shops and generally enjoying a day in the sun away from Voyager.

Janeway found a jeweler’s shop and decided Seven should have an engagement ring too. She found a wide gold band with a brilliant blue stone inset. Tuvok helped her approximate Seven’s size and the jeweler agreed to resize the ring should it not fit. The idea of giving Seven a ring excited Janeway in a way she didn’t try to understand. She was truly happy for the first time in a long time and was determined to enjoy it for as long as possible. Command responsibilities and internal fears would intrude soon enough; for the time being she was content to be just Kathryn, the woman who loved Seven of Nine.

They found the café Ta’arqual had mentioned and settled at a table. They ordered glasses of an iced spice tea and chatted while they waited for Seven and B’Elanna to rejoin them. They didn’t have long to wait. When Seven, B’Elanna and Ta’arqual were seated, B’Elanna recounted her induction into Ta’arqual’s cadre for escort duty that night. It was decided that Senior Staff would escort Janeway so tradition would be upheld by both parties. The conversation was lively and enjoyable. Ta’arqual excused himself and returned to the garrison after a few minutes.

After half an hour, Janeway rose and asked Seven to join her for a moment. They walked to a bench facing the fountain and sat down. Janeway presented Seven with the ring, but to her dismay, Seven seemed upset.

“Seven, what’s wrong? Don’t you like the ring?”

“The ring is beautiful, Kathryn. That is not the problem.”

“Then what IS the problem?”

“This,” said Seven, looking down at her left hand. “You have a beautiful hand on which to wear a ring. I have only…this. It is not human. It is Borg.”

Janeway took a deep breath and clasped the hand in both of hers.

“It is YOUR hand. And it IS beautiful because you are. I will never forgive the Borg for what they did to you; for what they took from you. But you have overcome all of it. You are a beautiful person Seven, outside and inside. There is no one I could be prouder to be engaged to or marry than you. In any quadrant of any galaxy.” She raised Seven’s hand to her lips and kissed it gently.

“You are a very persuasive woman, Kathryn.”

Janeway smiled. “No, only a truthful one. Will you wear the ring?”

“I would be…honored.” Janeway slipped it on her finger.

Seven regarded it for a long moment then looked at Kathryn. Their kiss seemed the most natural thing in the world. The Ma’altareans on the square smiled indulgently at the lovers. Tuvok seemed unfazed but B’Elanna inhaled audibly.

“Kahless! Tuvok, what’s going on with the captain??”

“I believe that Captain Janeway is finally coming to grips with the feelings she has for Seven of Nine. It has been a long time coming.”

“Do you mean that the captain loves her? Really loves her?”

“I believe so. The Captain has many issues she battles that have kept her from seeking personal happiness. I hope the events of the past two weeks help her finally overcome them.”

B’Elanna was dazed. “You mean the two of them are actually in love?”

“I assume from what I heard Seven tell you that she loves Captain Janeway. I have known the captain nearly twenty years and I believe that she loves Seven as well.”

B’Elanna let out a short bark of laughter. “Tuvok, if we ever manage to get back to the Alpha quadrant, we’d have the makings for one hell of a holo-novel! We could both retire.”

Tuvok only arched an eyebrow and watched as Kathryn and Seven strolled hand-in-hand back to their table.

That evening most of Voyager’s crew donned their dress uniforms and prepared to beam down to the surface for the biggest event since Voyager’s launch. For those on duty, the ceremony would be comm linked to view screens all over the ship.

The EMH came to Seven’s quarters to clean and dress her shoulder for the night. When he saw the warrior garb Seven was to wear for the ceremony, he decided that B’Elanna would need his help to get Seven dressed. He declared the state of their boots deplorable and spent nearly an hour buffing them to a high shine. He fussed so long getting the ceremonial sashes tied just so B’Elanna suggested to Seven in a whisper that they deactivate his program and hide his mobile emitter.

“Bridge to Lt. Torres.”

“Torres here.”

“Lieutenant, we’ve been hailed from the surface. Your ‘cadre’ is requesting permission to beam aboard.”

“Permission granted. Have them escorted to Cargo Bay two when they arrive.”

“Aye, Lieutenant.”

The EMH was circling B’Elanna doing a final once-over. She fidgeted under his gaze and scowled at him.

“Do you have to be so critical? We’ve done everything just like we were instructed. We look fine.”

“You are representing Voyager. I won’t have you looking like you spent the evening at a Kendarian orgy.”

“Doctor, are you attending the ceremony?” Seven asked to ease the tension.

“I wasn’t invited,” he replied acidly.

“Can you modify your program matrix to include a dress uniform?”

“I can.”

“Then I am inviting you.” Seven tapped the comm badge pinned to her shirt. “Seven to the captain.”

“Janeway here Seven.”

“Captain, would you mind an addition to your escort this evening?”

“Who did you have in mind?”

“The EMH. As CMO he is a member of Senior Staff.”

There was a pause before Janeway replied, “Seven, I should have thought of that myself. Thank you for correcting my oversight. My escort is gathering in my quarters at 1815 hours. Please tell the Doctor I look forward to his joining us. Janeway out.”

Holograms do not feel emotion, but the expression on the EMH’s face radiated pleasure. His matrix flickered for an instant and just that quick he was in full dress uniform.

“Thank you, Seven, It’s nice to know that someone on this ship has some sensitivity. Now, I’ve put a med kit in your overnight bag. It’s got the sterile wash, dressings and several painkiller hyposprays in case you need them. They’ll also help you sleep. There’s a padd in it with complete instructions on your wound care for the captain. You ladies look stunning. I’ll see you on the surface.”

As he reached the door, the chime sounded. He opened it to confront Ta’arqual and five of his cadre. The huge Ma’altareans had to duck slightly to get through the doorway, and it was several moments before the EMH could make his exit. Ta’arqual examined both women from head to toe and nodded his approval.

“You are both a credit to the cadre. But you’re slightly out of uniform.” He stepped forward and solemnly fastened the insignia of the cadre around their throats. It was a strip of red silk ribbon from which hung an enameled golden sunburst about three inches across. The sunburst hung at the base of their throats; its colors emphasized by the brilliant white of their shirts.

“There. Now you are ready. Shall we go?”

B’Elanna grabbed Seven’s carryall and slung its strap over her shoulder. They headed out of the Cargo Bay for the main Transporter Room. Those members of Voyager’s crew they passed looked on in amazement. They were an impressive sight.

They beamed down to the Premier’s residence. B’Elanna handed Seven’s bag to one of the staff to be placed in the guest suite. They accepted glasses of wine as they awaited the arrival of Janeway and her escort, chatting with the Premier and his wife.

Captain Janeway had none of the difficulties dressing as her two officers had, having long experience with the intricacies of Starfleet dress uniforms. When her escort had assembled, she made a point of apologizing to the EMH for neglecting to include him.

“No apology necessary, Captain. Seven was most gracious in her invitation. The two of you make a good team.”

“I think so too,” said Janeway with a smile.

“We all think so, Captain,” said Ensign Paris. Janeway was touched at his thought.

“Shall we, gentlemen?” She indicated the door.

Harry took the captain’s carryall and they headed to the Transporter Room and the planet surface. When they arrived, the Premier and his wife offered a toast to the couple’s future happiness and the group left the residence for the short walk to the Temple Prime. The Premier and his party led the way, with Seven and the captain walking behind them, each followed by their escort. The Ma’altareans on the street clapped and cheered as the entourage passed.

“Seven, if I don’t get another chance to tell you this evening, you look absolutely breathtaking in that uniform.”

“Thank you, Kathryn. I had misgivings originally, but Ta’arqual insisted, as did his cadre. The Doctor was most thorough in his sash tying earlier. B’Elanna and I may never get them untied again.”

Janeway laughed and felt a thrill shoot through her as Seven casually wrapped her arm around her shoulders. She slipped hers around Seven’s waist, taking care not to jostle the sling on her injured side.

It was not long before they reached the Temple Prime. The plaza in front of the Temple was filled with hundreds of people and most of the crew of Voyager. The ceremony was to take place on an elevated terrace in front of the entrance to the Temple. As they neared the steps leading up to the terrace, Seven and her escort went to steps on one side of the terrace; Janeway and hers went to those on the opposite side. The Premier and his party ascended the main steps and took their places behind the Deacon. Seven and her cadre formed up and marched up the steps, coming to a halt at the Deacon’s side. When they were in place, Janeway and the rest of Senior Staff climbed the opposite steps and Janeway stopped a pace away from Seven, facing her.

The Deacon gave a short benediction for all present. When he finished, the Premier stepped forward and made a brief speech celebrating the captain, Seven and the crew of Voyager. He expressed hopes that a treaty he and Janeway were to sign in two days would be the first of many with the Federation and Starfleet. He concluded by wishing Janeway and Seven lifelong happiness and joy.

The Deacon stepped forward again. “Guardians of the Cosmos, we beg your blessings on these two beings. They come to swear fidelity and love, secure in their promises to each other. Grant them long life, good health, happiness and the joy of offspring. Keep them true to each other regardless of hardship or trial. Let them face adversity side by side; their love shielding them and cementing their bond. We ask this in the name of all who have come before and all who will follow. All praise to you.”

He instructed Seven and Janeway to join hands, then took a white silk scarf and wrapped it around their clasped hands.

“As this symbol of purity binds your hands together, let the purity of your promise to each other guide you in your lives. Be faithful, be kind and gentle. Support each other in your endeavors. Forgive each other the hurts you cause, and encourage each other to become more than you are. Be each other’s anchor in times of plenty and in times of want, in times of sickness and in times of health, in times of joy and in times of sorrow, in times of failure and in times of triumph. Cherish, protect and comfort each other. Do you promise this?

“I do,” said Seven, gaze fixed on Janeway.

“I do,” said Janeway, warmed by the glow in those blue eyes.

“Then the blessings of the Guardians be on you. May your joining be joyous and soon.”

The terrace and plaza erupted in cheers and a voice rang out.

“Don’t just stand there, KISS HER!”

“What an excellent idea,” laughed Janeway as she stepped to Seven. Seven wrapped her arm around Janeway’s waist as the smaller woman reached up to cup her face. When their lips met, Janeway was overcome by the incredible softness of Seven’s skin. The arm around her waist pulled her firmly against her partner and their kiss deepened. Janeway slipped her hands around Seven’s neck as she felt a rush of heat throughout her body. Time stopped as she felt Seven’s mouth upon on hers and the tentative touch of Seven’s tongue on her lips. Ardently, she opened her lips and returned the intimate touch, overcome by the intensity of the feeling. Gasping, she broke the kiss; drawing Seven’s head down and whispered in her ear.

“You don’t need to practice kissing. You are a spectacular kisser!” She felt Seven’s smile against her cheek as Voyager’s crew roared their approval.

They separated then, and accepted the congratulations of the Premier, his wife and the Deacon Prime. Ta’arqual, the cadre and Voyager’s Senior Staff surrounded them wishing them well and offering congratulations. Holding hands, they descended the steps into the sea of Starfleet uniforms at the front of the plaza. Every member of the crew seemed happy for them and offered best wishes. Finally, Janeway caught Chakotay’s eye. He nodded and got everyone’s attention.

“We have a reception to get to. Go and enjoy yourselves at the festival!”

Gradually, the groups broke up and the officers headed back to the Premier’s residence for the reception. It was a lavish affair with delicious food and wonderful music. Janeway and Seven were constantly being congratulated by members of Ma’altara Prime’s aristocracy and government. Kathryn got a plate of food from the buffet and fed Seven bites between chatting with those present.

After about an hour, Janeway noticed the tightening around Seven’s mouth and eyes.

“Seven, are you in pain?”

“It is manageable, Kathryn. I am feeling fatigued and that emphasizes it.”

“Then let me make our excuses and let’s get you to bed. You need to rest; it’s been a long day. We could both use a good night’s sleep.”

They sought out the Premier and informed him that Seven needed to rest. Pel’toor summoned an aide to show them to their quarters and bid them good night. As they worked their way out of the crowded room, Janeway hailed Chakotay on her comm badge.

“Chakotay, Seven’s exhausted. We’re going to turn in. We’ll see you in the morning at breakfast. Enjoy the party.”

“Understood Captain. Good night. Chakotay out.”

The guest suite was just as opulent as the rest of the residence. There was a large sitting room with a fireplace, spacious bedroom and fully appointed bath. Their bags were waiting on the bed.

“Oh my,” said Janeway when she caught sight of the enormous bed. “I think the whole Senior Staff could sleep here. We should have invited them.”

Seven smiled as she sat heavily on the edge of the bed. Her shoulder was throbbing badly and she was more tired than she had thought. Her head drooped.

“Let’s get those boots off.” Janeway grasped Seven’s foot and tugged a high boot off, then removed the other.

“Will you need to be in the uniform at breakfast?”

“Yes, Kathryn.”

“Then let’s get everything recycled.” She helped Seven stand up and fumbled with the sash.

“I see what you meant about the Doctor’s sash tying.” Finally, the intricate knot gave way. Janeway eased Seven out of the shoulder stabilizer and out of the blue robe. Seven got out of her shirt and pants and Janeway handed her pajamas.

“Does your shoulder need to be redressed tonight?” she asked as she put Seven’s clothing into the recycler for tomorrow.

“No, the Doctor did that before we left for the planet. I should be fine until morning.” Seven had pulled on the bottoms but was having problems with the top. Janeway moved to help her, trying hard not to stare at the superb body. Once she had the top buttoned, she reached for the stabilizer.

“I think it would be best if you slept in this to hold you shoulder immobile.” She re-fastened the sling and looked deep into Seven’s eyes.

“You’re in pain aren’t you? Bad pain?” Seven nodded bleakly.

“There is a med kit in my bag. It contains several hyposprays for pain.”

Janeway located the hyposprays and grabbed two. She injected one into Seven’s neck and set the other on the nightstand beside the bed.

“Just in case you need it during the night.” Janeway pulled back the covers and helped Seven into bed. “Let me get some extra pillows for you.” She hailed the house staff and requested pillows to brace Seven’s arm and shoulder. While she waited, she went into the bathroom and changed into her gown for bed. She removed Seven’s cleaned clothing from the recycler and recycled her own. A maid arrived with the pillows, and she eased them around Seven to keep her shoulder from moving and her arm supported. She walked around the bed and climbed in the opposite side.

“Lights out.”

Kathryn settled into the soft bed, then rolled over next to Seven. She propped herself up on one elbow and gently kissed her.

“Sleep well. Wake me if you need anything during the night.”

“I will, Kathryn. Good night,” Seven mumbled. The hypospray was obviously working.

Janeway rolled back over and surrendered to sleep herself, smiling as she thought about the day.

I’m engaged to Seven of Nine and I love it.

Seven was awakened abruptly by an insistent pressure. Her internal chronometer told her it was 0337 hours; far too early to rise. She turned her head to the left and regarded the source of her awakening.

Janeway was sound asleep and snuggled up against Seven. Her arm was draped over Seven’s stomach and one leg was intertwined with Seven’s. The young woman regarded her with fondness. She eased her left arm from between them, raising it over her head and dropping it onto the pillow above her head. Janeway responded to the lack of interference by burrowing even closer to Seven. Her head nestled into Seven’s neck and shoulder, arm and leg tightened their grip. Seven lowered her left arm and wrapped it around Kathryn, pulling her even closer. This elicited a highly contented sound from the slumbering woman and Seven smiled. She eased her cheek against Janeway’s forehead, closed her eyes and fell back to sleep, surrounded in the warmth that was Kathryn Janeway.

Kathryn Janeway opened her eyes, aware of delightful warmth suffusing her and the fact that she had slept soundly for the first time in months. She was immediately aware that she has been sleeping in Seven’s embrace and that the delightful warmth she felt was being generated by her fiancée. Emotional turmoil caused her to reflexively pull away, only to encounter Borg resistance.

“Good morning, Kathryn,” said Seven softly as she drew the older woman back firmly against her. “Did you sleep well?”

Kathryn forced herself to relax and enjoy the embrace.

“Yes I did.” And I would gladly wake up this way every morning of my life, if only I could.

The reality of the situation struck her acutely. This joy would soon be over; tomorrow she would sign a treaty with the Ma’altarean Protectorate and Voyager would break orbit to resume its journey home. This interlude of happiness would end. She would once again be Captain Janeway; command and responsibility would come first. Kathryn the woman would be forced back into the confines of her dreams, as would her love for Seven of Nine. She promised herself to enjoy every moment of the time they had left together. This wonderful feeling of being held tight against Seven was a good place to start.

She eased her head back to look at the younger woman. Seven’s eyes shone with love as she leaned forward and kissed Kathryn gently. Kathryn rolled partially on top of her and deepened the kiss, briefly touching Seven’s lips with her tongue, seeking entrance. Seven opened her lips and the contact when their tongues met was electric. Kathryn felt a groan of desire rise in her throat; she raised her hand to caress Seven’s face. And inadvertently pressed down on the injured shoulder. Seven gasped; but in pain, not delight. Janeway broke the embrace.

“Oh sweetheart, I’m so sorry! Are you all right? My god, I hurt you!”

“It is all right, Kathryn. It was an accident. It is just so awkward having only one working arm. I will ask the Doctor to schedule the reconstructive surgery as soon as we get back into space.” She gazed at Kathryn longingly. “It will be good to have two arms with which to hold you.”

“Let’s get up; I’ll need to redress your shoulder after you shower. Is there anything we need to do before you shower?”

“There is an instruction padd in the med kit in my bag. There are plastiseal dressings for me to use in the shower. You can flush the wound after I shower and redress it then.”

“Stay here for a minute while I read the padd. I never asked…did you sleep well last night?”

Seven gave her the small smile that spoke volumes. “I was awakened very early this morning by a determined sleeping woman pushing up against me.” Janeway blushed at the thought. “But once I wrapped my arm around her and pulled her close she never moved again. It was a most pleasant way to sleep and I enjoyed it very much. I have decided that sleep, at least sleeping with you, is not in the least irrelevant. It is in fact most efficient.”

Kathryn grinned. “Thank you. I don’t think I’ve ever been paid a compliment in quite that fashion before.”

She climbed out of bed and found the padd in the med kit. As she read the Doctor’s instructions, the door chimed. She put down the padd and went to answer it. B’Elanna was standing in the hallway.

“I thought maybe you could use some help with Seven’s shoulder,” the stocky Klingon said by way of greeting.

“Thanks, I wasn’t looking forward to that,” said Janeway.

Together, they got the brace off Seven and eased her pajama top off her injured shoulder. Janeway removed the dressing and had to stifle a gasp of alarm. The deep slash across the shoulder was over six inches long and weeping a pinkish fluid. Fascia and bone were visible in it. B’Elanna noticed Janeway’s dismay and quickly moved to cover the wound with the plastiseal dressing.

“There you go Borg, let’s get you into the shower.” B’Elanna took Seven’s arm and helped her into the bathroom. She emerged in a moment as the shower came on.

Janeway was sitting on the bed, tears flowing down her cheeks.

“Captain…” began the engineer.

“It’s nothing, B’Elanna. I just…every time I’m reminded of what she went through for me…how close I came…we came…to losing her…”

“Are you going to remember that when we get back into space?”

“I beg your pardon?”

“I said, are you going to…”

“I heard what you said. What did you mean?”

“Permission to speak freely, Captain?”

“Go ahead.”

“Seven is my friend and I don’t want to see her hurt. She risked everything for you. She loves you with every ounce of her Borg-enhanced being. I know, just as surely as I know the laws of particle physics that make my warp core work, that she’s not going to want this engagement to end just because Voyager is back in space. What I want to know is if you’re going to break her heart once we get there.”

“It’s complicated and it’s going to be a difficult situation. Starfleet does not look kindly on a captain and a crew member fraternizing. I don’t know what I’m going to do about that.”

“With all due respect, Captain, command principles are all well and good when you’re safe in the Alpha quadrant and the rest of Starfleet is just a hail away. But we’re thousands of light years from the Alpha quadrant; on our own. We’ve broken regulations so many times I can’t even count them just to stay alive. You’ve said it yourself…a lot of the time we’re making it up as we go along. Do you really want to fall back on the lame excuse of Starfleet and hurt her like that?”

“I care for her, very much. I think that’s been obvious in the past couple of weeks. I owe her my life. I don’t know if I could even go back to the way things were. I’ve come to realize…admit…that I…love…her too. I just don’t know if it’s going to be possible to maintain a relationship once we get back into space and headed home again.”

“So you’re just going to leave her hanging, is that it? Just break her heart? Captain, if you do that I…I…”

“You’ll what, Lieutenant?”

“I’ll…I’ll…nothing, Captain.” B’Elanna’s disgusted look spoke volumes despite her words.

“B’Elanna, there’s more at stake here than just my feelings or Seven’s feelings. I will always be the captain, I will always have to put the ship and the crew ahead of anything and everything else. It’s my duty. A relationship would always be second to that.”

B’Elanna heard the shower cycle off. She shook her head and stared at her commanding officer.

“You’re being offered the kind of love that comes along once in a lifetime if you’re lucky. And you’re just going to throw it away? You must be out of your mind.” She walked away from Janeway over to the door of the bathroom, knocked and entered.

Janeway sat on the bed for a moment lost in thought. Then she stood up and gathered her clothes. When B’Elanna and Seven emerged from the bathroom she entered and shut the door behind her. By the time she’d finished her ablutions; B’Elanna had redressed Seven’s shoulder and helped her into her shirt and pants. Janeway helped her get the knee high boots on Seven and the sash tied around her waist. As Janeway was fastening the sling and brace, B’Elanna gathered up their bags.

“I’ll have these beamed back to the ship and meet you downstairs,” she said. Seven looked at her closely. Something has happened between the engineer and the captain while she was in the shower. As B’Elanna left, she turned to face Kathryn.

“Did you and B’Elanna argue?”

“No, we just had a small difference of opinion.”

“I see. May I ask the subject of your difference of opinion?”

“My failings as a human being,” Kathryn said with grimace.

“Should I speak with B’Elanna?”

“No, it isn’t necessary. Come on, we have two more days of leisure and I want to enjoy every minute. I don’t want to think about the ship or the crew or command. I just want to be with you.” I just want to make memories to live on for the rest of my life. Memories to keep me warm in the cold of space when I can’t be with you.

She reached out and took Seven’s hand and together they went down to breakfast.

After the formal breakfast, there was a tour of the capital and surrounding areas. When they had visited the Museum of Cultural History, they returned to the Premier’s residence for a light lunch. The rest of Voyager’s staff beamed back to the ship and Janeway and Seven chose to return to the marketplace for the afternoon.

As they sat at a café enjoying the bright sunshine, Janeway contemplated what the following days might bring. Could she ignore what had been drilled into her for her entire Starfleet career and try to make a life with Seven? She had lost everyone else she had loved; the thought of losing Seven paralyzed her. Their position in the Delta quadrant was so precarious that the odds of any one of Voyager’s crew being killed were far higher than was usual. Seven’s unique knowledge of the quadrant made her invaluable to Voyager, but it also placed her in many dangerous away mission situations. Janeway knew in her heart that if she loved Seven and lost her, Kathryn the woman would be lost as well. Only the Starfleet Captain would remain.

But if she could overcome her fear…if she could only let go of Starfleet and allow herself to love the beautiful woman next to her! Thoughts of living with Seven; loving her, made Janeway’s knees weak and her head swim. Quiet dinners together, evenings of peace and tranquility like the one they had shared, nights of passion and untroubled sleep. The unbelievable feeling of waking in Seven’s arms. She would never deny that kind of joy to another officer of Voyager; but she was the captain, with the ultimate responsibility for crew and ship. Could she allow herself the same freedom without compromising that responsibility? Did she trust herself enough? She had no answers to those questions.

And what of Seven? How did she feel? Was B’Elanna right? Would she break the heart of the woman she loved for the well-being of the ship? It had been such a struggle to meld Maquis and Starfleet into a cohesive crew. How would they react to their Captain loving another officer? Granted, the reactions so far had been positive, but they were colored by the diplomatic situation with the Ma’altareans. How much of it was real? Would a relationship with Seven cause dissension in the crew? Could they still respect a Captain who had a lover among them? Janeway mentally shook her head. No, Seven would not be just her lover. If she could allow herself to love, it would not be casual. They would marry, she could not settle for less; she would not allow Seven to do so either. For them, it would be all or nothing; for the rest of their lives. I wonder how Mom would react to an ex-Borg daughter-in-law? Phoebe will love Seven from the moment she sets eyes on her. And will no doubt tease me until the end of my days that I had to go 80,000 light years from home to find the love of my life.

She smiled at the thought.

“Is something amusing, Kathryn?”

“Hmmm? Amusing? Oh…no. I was just thinking about my younger sister Phoebe.”

“Fondly, it would appear.”

“Yes. Of course, that will change after I’m around her for about ten minutes. She drives me to distraction. But right now, yes, I miss her. And my mother.”

“Why were you thinking about your family, Kathryn?”

Janeway flushed and decided that Seven deserved the truth.

“I was wondering how they would react to an ex-Borg daughter- and sister-in-law.”

“I see. And how would they react?”

“They would love you the moment they laid eyes on you. And Phoebe would tease me unmercifully about how I had to go all the way to the Delta quadrant to find someone to marry me.”

Seven quirked the corned of her mouth. “And how likely is that?”

“That Phoebe will tease me? Totally.”

“I meant how likely is it that they will have an ex-Borg as their in-law?”

Janeway’s expression clouded slightly. She reached out and took Seven’s hand in hers.

“I don’t know, Seven. There are so many things to take into consideration. I care about you very much. I think that’s obvious now. I fought against these feelings for so long; I’m not sure how to exist not fighting them. And then there’s the matter of Starfleet. I’m just not sure that we could continue to…see each other…after we return to Voyager.”

“Unacceptable. These past two days are the first time I have seen you truly at ease and happy since I came aboard Voyager. I will not willingly see you return to your previous state.”

“Thank you. I have loved being with you. I never want to lose your friendship. I just don’t know how it can be anything else once we get back on Voyager.”

“I repeat, unacceptable. I will not go back to hiding my feelings for you. I will not go back to seeing the unhappiness in your eyes each day. We will adapt. The crew will adapt. Starfleet will adapt.”

“I wish I was as sure as you are. But I don’t want to talk about this any longer. We have the rest of today and tomorrow. I want to share them with you. I want to walk and talk and hold your hand and laugh with you. I want to be just Kathryn. I will have to be Captain Janeway again soon enough. C’mon, let’s walk some more. There’s supposed to be an art museum we didn’t see this morning around the corner. Let’s go see it.”

“This conversation is not over, Kathryn.” Seven rose from her chair and extended her hand to Janeway.

“I know.”

They spent the remainder of the afternoon strolling around the museum and returning to the marketplace. Seven found a small figurine she purchased for B’Elanna. Janeway commented that it was the ugliest thing she had ever seen and would be very appropriate for the feisty Chief Engineer. They beamed back to Voyager early in the evening, agreeing to change clothes and meet in the mess hall for dinner.

Seven hailed B’Elanna on her way back to Cargo Bay two and asked her to meet her in her quarters. She had not been there long when the door chime sounded.

“Damn Seven, you do look hot in that uniform!” said B’Elanna when Seven answered the door.

“Thank you, B’Elanna. Would you mind helping me out of it?”

“Seven, anybody on this ship would be delighted to help you out of it.”

“I believe you are mistaken. I believe there is one person on this ship who would not be so delighted.”

“Oh-oh. Trouble in paradise?”

“If by that you mean trouble with the captain, then yes. She is expressing concerns about continuing our relationship once we return to space.”

“She’s just nervous, Seven.”

“No, B’Elanna. She is not nervous. She is Starfleet. And will not overlook her precious command principles in favor of her happiness. I cannot fight Starfleet.”

“You’re Borg. Of course you can fight Starfleet. I suppose she threw up the old prohibition on officers fraternizing.”

“Something like that.”

“Well don’t get all worked up about it. We were going to figure out what to do before you went down there and saved her ass, we’ll just do the same now. It’s easier in a way; she already knows you love her.”

“I have tried to show her that.”

“But you haven’t told her?”

“The time never seemed…right.”

“Don’t worry. Between the two of us we’ll figure something out.”

Seven smiled faintly. “Kathryn did say that the two of us were dangerous when we put our heads together.”

“Well she was right. So don’t worry. This is not over. Not by a long shot.”

B’Elanna helped her dress in comfortable jeans and a shirt. When she was changed, Seven presented her with the figurine she had purchased earlier. B’Elanna roared with laughter when she looked at it and thanked Seven profusely, claiming she had just the place for it in her quarters. They parted and agreed to meet again after dinner.

Janeway was waiting in the mess hall when Seven arrived. Together, they went through the buffet of Ma’altarean delicacies. Seven complained about having only one good arm. Janeway laughed and handled their trays. As they ate their meal, B’Elanna came up and asked to join them. When she was seated, she told Seven the EMH wanted to see her after she’d eaten to check her shoulder. They chatted for a while discussing options for the rest of the evening. The festival that had begun the night before was continuing until the next night, with fireworks each evening. To Seven’s surprise, Janeway invited B’Elanna, Tom and Harry to join them for the evening. She agreed with pleasure and they set a time to meet in the Transporter room after Seven had her shoulder attended to.

The EMH was pleased that her shoulder was no worse and suggested they schedule the reconstruction in two days. Seven readily agreed; her frustration at having only one usable arm apparent. When she left Sickbay for the Transporter room, the EMH accompanied her. Tuvok, Harry, B’Elanna, Tom and Kathryn were waiting for them. They beamed down to the festival together.

Kathryn and Seven seemed a couple in love as they strolled among the musicians, acting troupes, artisans, food stalls and merry-makers. Seven had wrapped her arm around Kathryn’s shoulders and Kathryn kept her arm tightly around Seven’s waist. They fed each tidbits from the food stalls and danced together if the music was slow. The others smiled as they watched them; even Harry seemed to understand that Janeway and Seven belonged together. It was not a welcome realization for the young man, but he had matured since reporting aboard Voyager. He vowed to support Seven and the captain, knowing that their happiness would reflect down to the crew as well. There was an old Starfleet saying “As goes the captain, so goes the Ship.” Harry knew that if Janeway was happy the crew of Voyager would benefit from it. And Seven certainly seemed to make the captain happy. He had always suspected deep in his heart that the beautiful young woman would never be interested in him; for the first time he acknowledged the fact to himself.

“They look good together,” he commented to the rest of the group as they sat enjoying some local ale.

“Yes they do,” agreed Tom.

“So how do we make the captain realize that?” asked the EMH. The others looked at him in astonishment.

“What do you mean?” asked B’Elanna cautiously.

“I mean it is obvious to everyone else that they care deeply for each other. Captain Janeway is the consummate Starfleet officer however; she won’t allow the relationship to continue because it’s against Starfleet command principles. Frankly, I think it’s been used as an excuse to avoid relationships by officers who really don’t want commitments. I don’t think the captain falls into that category, but I think she has some other issues that will keep her from accepting her own happiness.”

“Tuvok, you know the captain best. Do you think that’s true?” asked B’Elanna.

“I have known the captain twenty years. I believe she will always put Voyager first in her life. That may be an obstacle to her finding happiness.”

“OK, so what do we do about it?” asked B’Elanna. “How do we help the captain realize that she can be happy with Seven and still be the best commanding officer in Starfleet?”

“We should do nothing until it is warranted. If it appears others are meddling in her affairs, the captain will withdraw,” said Tuvok.

“OK then; we watch and wait,” said B’Elanna.

Part 02/04