Kathryn sat on the sofa in her quarters, entering her thoughts in her private log. "Seven has been returned to me, it truly was a miracle, she's alive. I can feel her presence close to me and I am whole again. I find it has been a bittersweet return, knowing I must let her go to fulfill her destiny. Her future with Tom a constant reminder of what a hard and difficult road it’s been, neither path an easy one. What I feared most has happened, I, unable to control it, the desire constant now. Yet I find solace in knowing she's alive. I looked into her eyes this evening and I wanted so desperately to hold her in my arms and kiss her. If only to reassure myself of her return. I haven't felt this pain and longing in such a long time. Tom entered sickbay reminding me that I will lose her again. Yet the pain pales in comparison as to what it was before. I find the journey ahead of me will be a long one, and somehow I must find the strength to continue it alone. Loneliness once a part of my being, my touchstone, has now become my bitter enemy. I find it working against me, reminding me constantly of the emptiness, of the void present in my life. I must somehow find the strength, if not for me than for her. Computer end personal log, Janeway, PI. 2347-5"

Her breathing escaped her as the reality settled in and she was able to embrace it. Michael granted Kathryn a view to the future. One were Seven sat in a field bleached golden by the sun. Seven holding her daughter, Tom arriving and taking her from Seven, then she kissed him. She remembered the mournful cry at seeing it, the pain that erupted through her heart. "If only I didn't reject Seven that day, if only I wasn't afraid" her inner voice regrettably reproached.

Yet she promised herself, that if Seven survived. She would accept the fate and live the rest of her life without Seven. To Kathryn it was a great sacrifice, the occurring events of the past three months, allowing her to realize she loved Seven. Kathryn resigned herself to the unrequited love, while her heart screamed out in agony.

She rose from her sofa and entered her ensuite. After a quick sonic shower, she readied for bed. Wearing a short silky nightgown, she slipped within the cool cotton sheets. For the first time in 43 years Kathryn found herself, murmuring a silent prayer. When she completed it, she laughed out loud, "Mother would be proud of me, I want to believe mom, I want to believe". She gingerly fell asleep the last of her reserve melting and surrendering to the dark comfort of REM.

It was the start of the Alpha shift and Seven was having problems filling idle time. The Doctor ordered her off duty for the next 48 hours. Seven finding it wasteful, since she spent the past three months in a coma. She did notice she no longer possessed the ability to go without eating for long, and she appeared to tire more easily. An effect from her time in the coma, her Borg implants removed after being rejected. The only three that remained were her left hand, which the doctor managed to save and reintroduce on her return, her cortical implant and the small starburst on the right side of her jaw.

She was perusing data pads in an attempt to occupy her thoughts. The distraction futile as she found her thoughts drifted back to Kathryn. She wondered if it was a coincidence that the first face she saw, when she regained consciousness was Kathryns. The warmth of her deep blue eyes comforting and reassuring.

Her thoughts kept returning to Kathryn's appearance in sickbay yesterday. Her enigmatic smile and classic face taking her breath away. The warmth of her body as she sat closely next to her electrifying her and filling her senses. Seven was certain they would have kissed again, if not for the abrupt appearance of B'Elanna and Tom Paris.

Their entrance breaking the spell, Seven recalled the intensity of Kathryn's nearness, the loving eyes that could peer into her very essence, which left her dizzy and completely breathless. As much as she was fond of the Klingon, at that very moment the thought of strangulation was extremely plausible and acceptable.

With a long sigh she stood and exited Cargo Bay 2. An inner need to be around others gnawing at her. Seven noted subtle changes in her personality since her encounter with Omega. An inner peace seemed to settle within her. The constant battle for supremacy between human and Borg, insignificant and meaningless. In a strange way she seemed to find a resolution of sorts. An acceptance, of a newer self, one that was neither human nor Borg, but an equal of both parts to form a whole.

She walked down the passageway and headed to the turbolift. Acknowledging and returning the pleasantries of passing crewmembers. She noted the look of awe among those crewmembers that stopped her along the way. The way they openly stared at her cortical implant.

Some brazen enough to ask if it changed her in some way. The truth known, it wasn't until B'Elanna made a big production out of it. That Seven actually took a moment to examine the new change. Where her implant was once a stark dark gray before her encounter with Omega. It now possessed a silver and gold hue, she found the change aesthetically pleasing.

She entered the Messhall and nodded to several crewmembers before stopping by Neelix. Though the replicators were back on line. She found she required a human touch to her meal, a thought that astounded her. She strode over to the counter where the cheerful Talaxian was standing behind.

His choice of wardrobe, making Sevens human eye ache. He was dressed in an impossibly bright orange and purple tunic, with green pants and yellow starburst. For a moment Seven thought to ask him "If his quarters were not equipped with a mirror?" But for some reason she refrained, inwardly knowing the comment may offend the Talaxian.

"Ah, Seven, how are you this fine morning. I have made wonderful plans for your welcome back party tonight?"

She meant to point out, since there was no sun when traveling in space, morning was simply a perception, but instead offered. "Thank you Mr. Neelix, I find I am looking forward to it as well"

She hesitated slightly than continued "However, I find I am having problems occupying my time. Usually I could spend this time regenerating or working in Astrometrics. However I can no longer regenerate and I have been ordered by the Doctor to remain off duty for the next 48 hours."

"Hmm, have you ever given any thought of finding a hobby?"

"The Captain, once suggested I try sculpturing with clay. I found the exercise an inefficient waste of time"

"Maybe, you should try something else. Like painting or music, or one of the different recreational holoprograms. I hear Tom Paris has made changes to his Captain Photon program that are quite the talk of the ship"

"I do not believe I would derive pleasure from Lt. Paris's Captain Photon holoprogram"

"Well, how about painting? I hear it can be quite relaxing"

Seven tilted her head, considering the suggestion honestly. "I believe I would find that more suitable, thank you Mr. Neelix"

"It was my pleasure, Seven" His broad smile lighting his warthog face. "I'm glad I was of some to help you. You know Naomi has been asking about you"

"You can tell Naomi Wildman. I look forward to our next game of kadis kot. Perhaps she will join me when she finishes her studies today"

"I'm sure she would be more than happy too. I'll make sure to tell her"

Seven smiled warmly, an act that did not go unnoticed by the Talaxian. "Seven, has anyone ever told you have a most wonderful smile?" the compliment making Seven blush "You should do it more often. Now what can I get you?"

"I believe I would like to try your Talaxian oatmeal"

"One Talaxian oatmeal coming right up. Just sit down anywhere Seven and I'll bring it out to you"

"Thank you Mr. Neelix"

"Your welcome Seven" the Talaxian staring deeply into Sevens eyes. Appreciating the sudden change in her demeanor.

Seven sat in the Messhall completing her meal of Talaxian oatmeal. At the moment regretting not utilizing the replicators after all. It appeared her encounter with Omega changed many of her former aspects. She noted her human sense were more acute now then before. "Unfortunately taste was now one of them" forcing herself to swallow the spoonful of oatmeal in her mouth. She returned her half-eaten meal to the replicator for recycling. A part of her detested the waste, but the more logical part of her detested the suffering.

She exited the Messhall and headed in the direction of the holodeck. She was pleased to find it was available and entered. She accessed the pad and began downloading the Captains Da Vinci program. At one time she found the Maestro rather annoying. His strange speech and habit of jumping between languages illogical, the cluttered studio inefficient. However she viewed it now with a different eye. The softness of the room having a soothing effect, as she entered, he called to her from the balcony.

"Ah, Sette, but where is Caterina?"

"The Captain, is not with me, Maestro. I am alone"

He ambled down to her and viewed her with a new interest. "There is something different about you" he circled her much like a lion would his prey. She stood silently before him, allowing the intense scrutiny, she found his behavior amusing.

With a keen artistic eye he noted the color difference in her cortical implant. But there was something else, he locked onto her eyes and found his answer. For the first time he could remember, he noticed a certain fire in her eyes. An intensity and vibrancy for life that was missing before.

"Ah. But you have changed your jewelry?" His wiry finger pointing to her eye.

Seven thought for a moment as to her answer. "No, I had nothing to do with it. I had a recent experience with Omega"

"Omega? He is a Greek artist no? I have never heard of him"

She smiled warmly and thought of a way to explain. She remembered something in her previous visit to the studio and turning towards him. She reached out and gently clasped his elbow, directing him to the section of wall. She pointed to the icon of the crucified Christ. "He is Omega, I met him"

Da Vinci tilted his head, his stare intense "Ah you have had an epiphany. But tell me why do you call him Omega?"

"Because, that is his designati…"correcting herself, His name"

"No Bella, he is the Alpha and the Omega, it means the first and the last. He is simply God"

Seven thought of refuting the Maestro, but felt it would be futile. Indulging his concept she continued. "I see, Maestro, please explain to me. What is an epiphany?"

"Ah, it means a sudden awakening. Like a mystery that eluded you, now suddenly you understand it's meaning. So, it was God that came to you in a dream, no?"

"No, he came here to Voyager and saved me" Seven continued relating her story to the Maestro, knowing he required the details to fully understand. She sat drinking tea with him as she completed the events that unfolded in the past few months. Her edict memory recalling every event in detail. Including those that occurred during her catatonic state.

At the completion of her story the Maestro was astounded and amazed. He doubted her story actually occurred as she explained. However it was more important that the beautiful creature believed it did. The new fire he sensed in her was intensified as she concluded her story. The Maestro, relishing the new glow of the beautiful creature.

"Tell me Bella, what brings you to an old man like me?"

"There is a constant image I am unable to forget. I would like to try to paint it, I find the image allows me to feel pleasure"

The Maestro was enchanted by the emotions expressed by the usually cold woman. "Ah, I see, so you would like to put this image on canvas?" smiling warmly he grabbed her hand and hustled her to the studio. "I will make room for you here, the light is the best in the entire room. Come and let us see, what miracles you can create with brushes and oils"

Seven remained in Da Vinci's studio working on her new project. She found pleasure in the fluidity of brushing oil onto canvas, the process soothed and relaxed her. The actions distracting her thoughts of Kathryn as she concentrated in placing her mind's eye to canvas. She was interrupted by her combadge.

"Naomi Wildman, to Seven" Naomi Wildman was a hybrid human/ Katerian child on Voyager. Who befriended Seven and was counted as one of the members of Sevens inner collective. Seven appreciated the child's tenacity and brilliant mind.

"Seven here"

"Seven, Neelix informed me you would be able to play kadis kot with me today"

"Naomi Wildman, I look forward to our game. I will meet you in Cargo Bay 2" Seven placed a sheet over her work in progress. Making her excuses to the Maestro she exited the holodeck and headed to meet with Naomi.

She arrived before Naomi and found herself replicating various sweet cakes for Naomi's visit. The sudden thought occurring to her of the subtle changes. In the past she would never have indulged the child, in such non-nutritious treats. She made her favorite tea and placed it on a tray with the treats. Naomi Wildman entered the Cargo Bay and rushed to Seven, placing her tiny arms around Sevens tapered waist.

"Oh Seven, you're back, I'm so happy to see you" The tears welling up in her eyes.

"Naomi Wildman" Seven removing the child's arms from her waist and enfolding her in a firm embrace. "I am glad to see you as well. I would like to thank you for visiting me during my illness"

"You know about that?" the Kiterians blue eyes in wonder.

"Of course, I was able to hear and feel you. It made me happy when you would tell me your stories"

"Oh, Seven I missed you so much. I thought that mean angel took you away forever. The Captain kept searching for the good angel, but we couldn't find him. And then she got in trouble with Starfleet and we and well…."The tears flowing freely down her cheeks. Seven wiped her tears gently and hugged her closely to her form. Running smooth gentle circles on her back.

"Naomi, it is alright, I am here now. Things will be fine, you must believe me." The little girl nodded her head up and down in agreement, never releasing her hold on Seven. After several more minutes she pulled away from Seven and eyed her implant with curiosity.

"Mother says, the angels kissed you and that's why the colors to your implant changed. However I believe the forces of their molecular energy, were able to change the composition of metals. Therefore the new properties are included in the original matrix of your cortical implant" stated with a scientific conviction.

Seven merely dislodged herself from Naomi's tight embraced and viewed the child with pride. With an amused expression crossing her fine features, she realized the importance of faith over science.

"You are incorrect in your analysis. The Doctor has run diagnostic scans and determined the properties have not change. It is simply the colors that have. Perhaps Ensign Wildman's theory is the correct one. It is simply a manifestation of being kissed by angels"

The Katerian child's eyes widened a look of awe and sudden acceptance embedding in her analytical mind. "What was it like being kissed by angels?" she asked in child like wonder.

"It was comforting, much like when you are injured and your mother provides you comfort with a kiss. Though clinically there is no medicinal qualities in such an act. It is knowing of a selfless love from another that makes the pain bearable"

The little Katerian child nodded her head in agreement, recalling the countless times. Her mothers kiss provided all the healing she required. "Are those for me?" pointing to the tray with assorted treats.

"Yes, I thought you would enjoy eating them as we play our game of kadis kot"

Naomi's smile covered her entire face, her eyes anxious and delighted over Sevens offer. "I find that will be acceptable"

Seven smiled and the two sat indulging in the decadent sweets, while playing multiple games of kadis kot. At 1600 hours the young Katerian departed Seven's company. Seven exited, Cargo Bay 2 in the direction of B'Elanna's quarters, the two women agreeing to meet the night before. B'Elanna agreed to assist Seven in selecting the appropriate attire for this evening’s affair.

Seven taking advantage of the promised replicator rations from Tom Paris. Rations he won on a betting pool, when Seven and Captain Janeway inadvertently repaired the replicator by 2200 hours. Making Tom the winner and causing B'Elanna three months replicator rations.

The chime to B'Elannas quarters rang, "Enter" Voyagers Chief Engineer called out.

Seven stepped into B'Elannas quarters for the first time. She scanned the room speculatively, surprised at the feminine touches here and there. A beautiful crystal vase with flowers and holoimages tastefully placed provided a different view of the feisty Klingon. She also noted the discarded tunic thrown over a chair, boots lying in the center of the room and datapads littering the glass table. Seven eyed the room critically, the feminine qualities a stark contradiction against the haphazard mess, her implant flexing....

B'Elanna noticed her critical glare "What?"

Seven slapped herself inwardly for allowing her expressions to be easily noticed. "Your quarters are interesting"

" Oh yeah, Well why do I have a feeling there's an insult in there somewhere?"

"Perhaps, because you have an overly suspicious nature"

"Oh really? I never noticed that before" The Klingon aware her of her friend's diplomacy and liking the new Seven that emerged from her recent ordeal. It seemed to B'Elanna, a softer more compassionate Seven returned, adding to her uniqueness.

"I have noticed there are many facets of your personality you are unaware of. Therefore I have made it my duty to inform you of such as our friendship progresses" a smug look covering Sevens face.

The Klingon smiled broadly, "Yeah, Well don't do me any favors. Did you bring the replicator chips?"

Seven held a small pouch containing 130 replicator rations. She handed the booty over to B'Elanna, a pained expression crossing her brow. "Is something wrong, B'Elanna?"

"Yeah, I guess I should tell you, after all it's only fair"

"What is it?" Seven concerned.

"Well, remember that time I went after you over fixing the replicators?"

"Indeed, it was that incident that allowed us to form our friendship. One that I am most pleased and grateful for"

B'Elanna was torn between feeling like a heel over her previous behavior towards Seven, and moved by Sevens honest display of their new friendship.

"Yeah, well since we're friends now, I should tell you the truth"

"Indeed, proceed" Seven feeling a bit vulnerable, hoping B'Elannas words would not harm her.

B'Elanna noted the change in Seven's eyes and immediately offered. "It's not what you think, See the reason I was so mad at you, was because I knew Tom had a pool going on the replicators. I told him the night before I would have them up by 2200 hours. Anyway, when Janeway pulled me off duty, I realized Tom would lose his shirt. So I had Nicoletti place a quiet bet for me that they wouldn't be back on line in time. The point is you and the Captain fixed them before the deadline and I lost three months rations. That's why it's such a sore point to me"

A flood of relief washed over Sevens face, allowing her to feel amusement over the situation. "I see, there is only one solution to this?'

"Yeah, what's that?"

"You have mentioned to me a game called poker. I have researched this game and find, I would not be successful in it. I am well aware I am incapable of lying proficiently enough to excel in it. However, in my research I found another game requiring cards, I believe it is called Blackjack or Twenty-one. I was able to determine it is flawed, in that if one simply recalls the cards already played. They can determine the cards available and increase their odds in winning. I recommend we engage Mr. Paris in a game of Blackjack. This will afford you the opportunity to restore your loses" Seven grinning from ear to ear.

B'Elannas eyes twinkled, a devious grin crossing her lips. "Kahless Seven, I love the way you think, You’re a genius, maybe we should include a couple of other crewmembers. You know, just to make it more interesting" Her face becoming more animated as she quickly conceived her list of victims.

"I find, that will increase your chances of winning larger "Stakes" I believe is the correct term"

"Oh Yeah, and don't worry Seven we're full partners. My winnings are your winnings. Has anyone ever told you have a knack for mischief making?"

"No, However I think it wise we remain silent of this. I have a distinct feeling the Captain would not be pleased, if she discovered our plans"

"Good idea, I'll keep my mouth shut" B'Elanna noticed the look of distrust in Sevens eyes. "Aw, come on Seven, I know how to keep my mouth shut when I have too"

Seven merely continued to look at her in total disagreement. "I recommend that you do. I do not think the brig will be sufficiently large enough to hold us both. Particularly since your life will be in imminent danger from a certain Borg" her implant flexing high on her brow for emphasis.

"Are you threatening me? Hey don't think, because you have some ancient earth deity on your side you can scare me Borg. My Kahless can run circles around him any day of the week"

"It is not the deity you should concern yourself with, it is me. And I am confident a Borg can beat a Klingon any day of the week, as you say"

B'Elanna snorted loudly "Is that a challenge, Borg?"

"No, I believe it is what you call a fact"

B'Elanna laughed loudly, her chest emitting a raspy growl. "You know Seven, I really like the new you. Even if you're still the same pain in the ass"

"I believe I like the new me as well" Both women falling into an easy laughter. After collecting themselves, B'Elanna straightened and moved to the task at hand.

"Alright come on time is wasting, let's see what we can do about your outfit for tonight"

"What is it that you have in mind?"

"Oh, I don't know something classic, but screaming sexy and showing flesh. You do know Neelix made it a theme thing, this theme is based on the earth styles of the 40's. I wonder if it ever occurs to him to stick with the present, for a change"

"I believe he derives a certain amount of pleasure from exploring earth's history and customs"

"Yeah, well maybe he should explore some earth cooking recipes instead. Kahless his Talaxian oatmeal stuck to the inside of my stomach like hull barnacells. I haven't been able to eat anything else all day.

"I agree, I too made the same selection this morning and found I was unable to finish it."

"Hell forget about finishing it I haven't been able to digest it. I don't know what was worst his oatmeal or his outfit. Kahless he must have an endless supply of tastelessness"

Seven merely nodded her head in agreement. Not wishing to share Neelix's outfit actually made her human eye scream in pain. For the next two hours complete chaos ensued as numerous outfits were replicated and cast aside, in the Klingons attempt to find the perfect dress. Seven was unsure she could survive B'Elannas assistance and the thought occurred to her, she should have asked the Doctor for his assistance instead.

Sevens hair was in complete disarray along with a few frayed nerves. As more than 20 dresses, were tried on and discarded, for being either too much or too little. Seven was convinced the Klingon suffered from a compulsive obsessive disorder regarding clothing. It occurred to her that perhaps there was a certain efficiency to her biosuits after all.

Blessedly after two hours and a few Klingon epitaphs the appropriate garment was found, much to Sevens great relief. The Klingon making her blush on more than one occasion with her colorful language. She wondered how was it possible that B'Elanna knew so many profane words in two different languages. The dress was aesthetically pleasing to Seven and the two hours of anguish were worth the wait.

It was a shimmering gold sequined number that dipped low to the back and tapered at the bottom. The dress was considered eveningwear and as such was long, reaching just below her ankles. A long slit in the back allowed her legs to move freely and provided a generous view of the back of her legs. The material allowed it to cling suggestively to Sevens figure. Displaying her narrow waste and generous breast. The front scooped dangerously low, a sheer see-through gold fabric straining to hold her breast in place. The sleeves were long and made of the same sheer fabric as the plunging neckline. The cuffs had a delicate sheer ruffle and succeeded in covering most of the Borg implant in her left hand.

B'Elanna choose shoes of a matching color with a modest heel. Allowing Seven's natural height to take precedence over the shoes. She swept her hair into a French twist, strategically dropping loose strands in the back and front. Then to Seven's ungracious protest, the Borg adapting some Klingon epitaphs of her own, B'Elanna proceeded to apply makeup.

"I do not see the purpose of applying this on my face"

"Sit still, Seven, this is hard enough. Besides it only helps to enhance the package, if you know what I mean"

"No I do not, explain"

"Kahless, here we go again. It adds to the look of your clothing. Honestly Seven with all the research you do, why don't you ever pick up on a few slang words and metaphors?"

"Because, I have no desire to speak Klingon," she added in a huff.

B'Elanna smirked and contritely added. "Yeah, well don't think Borg is any better. Resistance is futile, You will be assimilated. Kahless with all the species you adapted you couldn't come up with something more creative?"

"I believe there is one you are not aware of?"

"Oh yeah, what's that?" the Klingon added tersely.

"Prepare yourself to be added to the collective and kiss my a__. I find since you are so expressive pertaining to certain parts of your anatomy, you would be appreciative of that" Seven looking a bit too smug.

B'Elanna's jaw dropped and thought of teaching her a few other catchy phrases. Then thought better of it, the least thing she needed was an angry Captain or worst off a pissed off angel coming after her. "Do you kiss your mother with that mouth?"

"Since she is still a part of the collective the answer is no. However, I find I am looking forward to kissing Kathryn with it. I shall inform you of it when it happens"

B'Elanna burst out laughing, unfortunately she was applying Seven's lipstick at the time. She painted a line directly to Sevens lower left ear, causing a venomous look and angry accusation from Seven regarding subterfuge. B'Elanna falling deeper into laughter.

Unable to complete the application, Seven removed the offensive lipstick from B'Elannas grasp, muttering a Klingon oath of her own under her breath. The engineer falling on the bed in a helpless fit of laughter. After removing the dark brown line from her face. Seven proceeded to complete the application, staring distastefully at B'Elanna through the mirror, who was holding her side and pointing accusingly at Seven.

B'Elanna finally gathered herself and reapplied her own makeup. The fit of laughter caused the Klingon to look most ungracious. The door chime to B'Elannas quarters rang. "Enter"

Tom Paris, stepped into the room, his jaw dropping at the disaster in B'Elanna's quarters. There was clothing and shoes scattered everywhere. The room had the appearance of being struck by a photon torpedo. Dressed in a traditional black tuxedo, B'Elanna found him adorable. "What on earth happened here?" his jaw falling.

"What?" B'Elanna asked defensively.

"What? Your quarters that's what! It looks like they were struck by a photon torpedo"

"Oh that's nothing, Seven couldn't makeup her mind as to what to wear. Kahless she's difficult". Seven's jaw dropped to the floor at B'Elannas blatant lie. She began to speak, but for once was actually speechless. Feeling a little defeated she surrendered to the accusation, and merely shook her head in obvious disgust, holding her breath.

Tom looked at her in astonishment, expecting Seven to defend herself. He knew B'Elanna too well, particularly when it came to dressing. In Sevens defense he added, "Really, I never would have guessed Seven had anything to do with this" his tone inflecting complete disbelief at B'Elannas accusation....

B'Elanna snorted and grabbing Tom forcibly by the arm yanked him out of her quarters in route to the holodeck, Seven following closely behind. As they entered the turbolift, Tom commented on Seven's choice of eveningwear and how it complimented her makeup. Seven blushing at his appraisal and giving B'Elanna all of the credit. He made it a point to comment on B'Elannas choice of attire as well. A long black number with a plunging neckline and slit on the right side, a well-muscled thigh gloriously exposed.

Entering with the two women on his arms, every eye in the holodeck turned in his direction. Tom's chest swelled with pride knowing he was the envy of every man on Voyager. The contrasting outfits between the two women had an astounding visual affect. The men simply dropped their jaws at Seven's choice of attire. The dress covering enough of her anatomy with tantalizing glimpses of it's forbidden fruit hidden below.

Harry Kim was the first to approach, his eyes raking over Seven and settling on her breast. Stammering "Wow, Seven, you, I mean, you look, I" B'Elanna lost her patience with Harry's stammering. "Stop gawking, Starfleet and spit it out" Harry Kim turned a crimson red, Tom laughed at his obvious discomfort, while Seven merely flexed her implant awaiting his predictable response.

"You look great Seven", lowering his eyes from her ample breast.

"Kahless, Starfleet, is that all you can come up with. You're hopeless" She grabbed Seven by the arm and led her away. Leaving a stunned Harry and an amused Tom behind.

"Well, at least we know the outfit's a hit" B'Elanna eyeing Seven ruefully, swaggering her eyebrow for emphasis.

Seven merely twisted her mouth slightly. 'I disagree, Lt. Kim is most predictable in his response regarding my attire"

"Yeah, Well that may be so, but believe me that wasn't a cushioned carpet you just walked across. Every man in this place has his tongue hanging out to the floor. I'd say your dress is a success"

On their way to the buffet table, the women were accosted by several of Voyagers male contingency. A few requesting the honor of dancing with Seven. Tom ambled over to B'Elanna and the two mused and commented over Seven's various dance partners.

Both agreeing, a dance with Seven resembled a Klingon wrestling match. B'Elanna was wiping the tears from her eyes at Seven's latest attempt to jitterbug with Harry Kim. The young Borg tossing him around the dance floor like a rag doll. The pained expression on Harry's face as he limped off the floor not going unnoticed by Tom and B'Elanna.

Seven casually walked over to B'Elanna, her face flushed from her recent dance. Tom watched as Seven headed in their direction and fearing for his life. Quickly excused himself and headed to assist Harry Kim. B'Elanna between choked breaths and fits of chuckles, turned her attention to Seven "Kahless Seven" another stifled laugh, "You can really cut a rug"

Seven feeling suddenly exhilarated at her new attempt at dancing, answered innocently. "I find I am enjoying this recreational dancing" Quite pleased with herself that she recognized B'Elanna's metaphor in it's proper content.

"Yeah" another choked snort "It sure is a lot of fun to watch too" Seven not realizing the true meaning of B'Elannas comment nodded her head in agreement. The women were joined by over eager crewmen, each eagerly eyeing Seven's revealing attire.

Naomi Wildman made a beeline for Seven dragging Neelix behind her. Pushing her way through Seven latest admirers "Seven, you look beautiful, just like an angel"

"Why thank you Naomi Wildman" Seven bending down to greet the young Katerian. Bringing several appreciative ogles from the surrounding males, as she treated them with a wild glimpse of her legs and breast. "That is very kind of you to say"

"You look nice too Lt. Torres"

"Yeah, Thanks kid, I appreciate it. Hey have you seen the Captain yet?" B'Elannas eyes scanning the holodeck.

"She hasn't arrived yet, I'm sure she'll be here soon" The little Katerian responded.

Neelix who remained silent the entire time, found his mouth suddenly dry and his tongue laden, shaking his head "Gee Seven, your as beautiful as a painting" B'Elanna standing behind Naomi and Neelix, did a double take on Neelix's response.

Rolling her eyes up she sighed inwardly 'Kahless, not him too" She mimicked a most unlady like motion behind the cheerful Talaxians back. Stuffing her right forefinger into her mouth and pretending to heave violently.

Seven fought valiantly in an effort not to burst out laughing. Something she found herself doing quite often with the unpredictable Klingon. "Why thank you Mr. Neelix, You are too kind"

Neelix stepped closer, his eyes a serpentine slit and lowered his voice huskily. "You know Seven, you can just call me Neelix" Before Seven could respond B'Elanna grabbed her by the hand and pulled her away.

"Sorry, Neelix, but I think that's the Doc over there and I promised we'd show him Seven's outfit. See you later"

"Make sure you save a dance for me later, Seven" the over anxious Talaxian called out.

"Yeah, Yeah, Yeah, sure, get in line Neelix" B'Elanna shot distastefully over her shoulders, towing Seven directly behind her, her feet barely touching the ground.

"B'Elanna, please slow down you are going to break my arm"

"Yeah, well the way I look at it you have a choice. You either go with me or deal with the drooling Talaxian all night."

Seven's stomach convulsed involuntarily, the thought of a drooling warthog, sickening her, she quickened her pace to stay behind B'Elanna. "I believe I see your point"

B'Elanna snickered "I thought you would"

B'Elanna caught sight of Tuvok and considering him a safe bet, stopped to engage him in conversation. She was having a difficult time keeping Seven available. She wanted to make sure Seven could break away easily the moment the Captain arrived.

"Hi Tuvok, read any good books lately?" B'Elanna asked gingerly, hoping not to raise Tuvoks suspicions.

"Your attempts at using me as a safe passage will fail, since Seven is the guest of honor" Rising his eyebrow slightly taking in Seven's revealing outfit. "You will find it a most difficult task, perhaps you should have selected a less revealing dress for the occasion"

B'Elanna creased her brow, first thinking "How the hell did he know that?" and then noticing Tuvoks prolonged stare at Seven. "Kahless, she's not even safe with the Vulcan, maybe I did go a little overboard". Feigning a hurt expression "I have no idea what you're talking about. Honestly Tuvok, security makes you overly suspicious of everything"

Tuvok merely raised his eyebrow in her obvious attempt to cover her tracks. Then turned his attention to Seven. "I hope you are enjoying yourself this evening Seven"

"Thank You, Lt. Commander, I find I am already feeling quite exhausted. Since my illness I find I tire more easily then before"

"Perhaps it has more to do with Lt. Torres, dragging you across the entire span of the holodeck" Turning a sarcastic eye to B'Elanna.

B'Elanna frowned deeply crossing her arms in front of her, she was about to reply, when Tuvok suddenly added. "I believe the person you have been seeking all night has finally arrived Lt., the Captain has just entered the holodeck"

Turning to Seven he added warmly "I wish you luck in your pursuit of the Captain, Seven. Unfortunately I will not be remaining to witness this evenings outcome". He placed his drink down and abruptly left.

The two women stared open mouth at each other, their jaws falling to the floor. B'Elanna was the first to respond. "How the hell did he know that? You didn't say anything to him did you?"

Seven clamped her mouth shut her head saying no, but her eyes saying yes....

B'Elannas eyes opened in astonishment "You did say something to him didn't you? I know you Seven of Nine. You can't lie to me. Now comply, what did you tell Tuvok?"

Seven was forced to reveal her meeting with the Chief of Security, Chakotay and the Captain. After Seven and Tuvoks attempt to communicate with Michael. She confessed how Michael relieved her anxieties over her kiss with the Captain's and the way the Captains rejected her afterwards. B'Elanna merely stared at her in bemusement.

"You said that Seven? In front of Tuvok and Chakotay?" astounded at Sevens revelation.

"She ordered me to comply, I had no choice" Seven added innocently, though her eyes depicted a victory.

B'Elanna snorted loudly "Yeah right, you know you enjoyed it. God, remind me never to piss you off" B'Elanna shaking her head in disbelief, secretly admiring Seven's tenacity.