Both Holodecks were carefully decorated in preparation for the wedding that was taking Voyager by storm. Neelix was going over the last of the preparations and ensuring everything was in order. Naomi Wildman was in a long white dress with a large blue sapphire slash.

Naomi as the only child on Voyager was chosen by the couple to bare their wedding rings. The hybrid human/ Katerian child meticulously paced up and down the aisle, practicing her role. Her long red hair was swept up, into ringlets and her blue eyes shined with the anticipation and exuberance only a child could possess.

Sheer fabrics of white, sapphire blue and gold silk were delicately hung along the span of the deck. The trellis that lead up to the gazebo, was adorned with flowers of white and gold replicated from the rarest of foliage obtained in Fn’enghia. The finely spun silk purchased in the Fn’enghian marketplace, generously hung and flowed lightly against a light warm breeze.

The guest seating was adorned with delicate flowers of white and gold, as the sun began to settle and a bright orange orb nestled gently, among snowy white clouds. Holodeck one was programmed into a scene reminiscent from Kathryn's home in Indiana, the grass bleached golden by the sun. In the center of the field stood a domed shaped gazebo decorated in gold lace and fine white silk. A pair of white doves nestled lovingly on the top.

Those crewmembers able to attend the ceremony were already formed and seated. Their level of anticipation ran high, as the start of the wedding neared and was merely two hours away. The ship wide communication link was held open, for those members unable to attend the actual ceremony.

Seven and Ensign Wildman were still asleep in B’Elannas quarters, the two women laid haphazardly on the couch. The eve of the wedding was spent in a typical Klingon style celebration. The Klingons penchant for providing mayhem far exceeded its usual parameters, the effect rendered them all helpless and unable to return to their own quarters.

Ensign Samantha Wildman and Seven awoke with thundering headaches, the relentless summons of the ships computer sent shock waves through their skulls. The room appeared blurred and unstable as they rose, the endless consumption of Klingon ale taking its toll on the two women.

Complete chaos ensued when Samantha Wildman cleared her head and glanced at the chronometer. "Oh my God, we have two hours to get dressed before the wedding"

A violent wrestling match ensued for the ensuite as each woman bullied and pushed her way into the prime real estate. A fevered rush of showers and unlady like behavior occurred, along with multiple volleys of accusations hurled at B’Elannas recklessness. After a few frantic moments of locating the appropriate articles, the three women began the rigorous chores of dressing.

B'Elanna was in an uproar running her full repertoire of Klingon expletives and huffing under her breath. Her latest outburst pertaining to Sevens hair, which she pulled and combed multiple times over, before settling on a simple off the shoulder look.

Sevens features were pained and fevered, B'Elannas words reverberating with a vengeance and forcing her to cringe. Holding the side of her temples she whispered hoarsely "Must you be so loud, Klingon?" as her eyes threatened to explode from their sockets.

"Loud? You call that loud Pe'twah? That’s not loud, NOW THIS, THIS IS LOUD!" her voice higher in pitch, the harshness of the tone forced her to cringe as the pounding increased.

"Maybe no one will notice if we kill her and stuff her body in the ensuite" Samantha Wildman spoke painfully as she held her head in her hands, her face a pale green hue.

"I am sure you are correct in your assessment Ensign Wildman. If you will do me the honor of reaching for that B'eThal on the wall, I will grant us both your wish"

B'Elanna smiled ruefully the previous evenings events having less of an effect on her." Damn amateurs, you’re both a disgrace to the Klingon race"

"I would like to remind you that neither Ensign Wildman or myself are Klingon. Furthermore if this any indication as to what it is to be a Klingon then I would much rather rejoin the collective" Sevens voice dripped with sarcasm.

"Here, here, Seven, for once I agree with you, anything is better than this, even the collective, is better than this. What was in that ale anyway, rocket propulsion fuel?" Ensign Wildman eyes squinted, the thundering headache intensified as she whispered hoarsely "Why is it so bright in here?"

B’Elanna attempted to look wounded and insulted "What do you mean rocket propulsion fuel? It took me six hours to distill that to perfection. You know I never realized what a bunch of prima donnas you both are. Kahless, do you know how difficult it is to raise the right blood worms for Klingon ale?"

Seven and Samantha Wildman looked up in horror, Ensign Wildman finding her voice first "Are you saying you added those disgusting Klingon blood worms to that ale? What else did you put in that?"

"Oh just a few beetles and some other stuff I found in Fn’enghia. Kahless would they get pissed if they found out what I used them for, heh, heh. Besides what did you think makes Klingon ale red, if not blood worms?"

Sevens face became visibly green, the entire vision of squirming blood worms overpowering her senses. She held her hand to her mouth and convulsed slightly "I am not feeling very well" as she quickly rose and rushed to the ensuite, the retching gasping noise an obvious indication of her discomfort.

"Oh that’s just great B’Elanna, now you made her sick with all your talk of blood worms" Samantha feeling an empathetic link with Seven, trying vainly to subside her own queasiness.

B’Elanna pretended to be stunned at the accusation "Me? How did I know she could be so squeamish? Kahless, talk about a waste of good grog" she added defensively.

Seven rose from her kneeling position, her face returning to a lighter shade of pale, a stark improvement to her earlier shade of green. She brushed her teeth vigorously, her physical state remarkably improving despite the earlier discomfort. She stumbled slightly from the ensuite Samantha rising quickly to assist her, as she shot B’Elanna an evil glare.

B’Elanna stared at Seven in amusement, a rising fit of laughter threatening to ensue "Gee Seven, you ah, really adapted to heaving haven’t you?"

Both Seven and Samantha looked threateningly at her, the Klingon responding with a roar of laughter. It was all Seven could take as she quickly attempted to cross the threshold, Samantha trying valiantly to hold her back. "I am going to throttle you, you Pe’twah"

B’Elanna quickly rose, the determined look on Sevens face convincing her now was a good time to surrender. Holding her hands up in defeat, she wiped the tears from her eyes with the back of her hands.

"Alright" stifled chuckle "I’m sorry, I won’t make fun of you anymore. I promise" her features attempting to look sincere. "Besides we have to hurry or you’re going to be late for your own wedding" B’Elanna glancing at the chronometer for emphasis.

Seven glanced at the chronometer and realized time was quickly running out and she would have to save her idle threats for later. With a heavy sigh she relinquished her previous thoughts of killing B’Elanna. Though she made a quick mental note to get even with the feisty Klingon in the near future.

Samantha quickly retrieved the wedding gown and with B’Elannas assistance began the process of dressing the bride. Sevens dress was made of the finest Fn’enghian silk ever spun. The long white gown was narrow and tapered down the length of her form. The fabric sheer, but for a thin veiled slip underneath.

The shadow of her form and long narrow legs tantalizingly detectable in the soft light, the shadowed effect allowed for the imagination to wander. The front of the gown was bound to a vee shape, the sheer shoulder straps slightly off to the sides, her ample breast snuggled warmly in place.

In keeping with ancient earth traditions B’Elanna loaned her a thin gold chain which hung elegantly from her neck. She wore a garter of silver and gold with the symbol of two doves delicately intertwined, their heads nestled together. After a heated argument and much wrestling a gold band with a sapphire stone was added, adorning the upper part of her right arm.

She wore a simple veil made of small delicate gold and white flowers. The golden silvery hue of her cortical implant added to the appeal of her delicate gown. B’Elanna began the process of applying her makeup, the usual argument and protest ensuing quickly.

"Must you press so hard on my eyes?" Seven groaned painfully, her eyes shut tightly.

"I’m barely touching you! Stop being such a baby you over grown Borg"

"Don’t worry Seven, I called the Doctor and explained everything to him. He promised to drop by after he takes care of the captain" Samantha passed a golden light powder to B’Elanna who was impatiently snapping her fingers at her, while Samantha tried her leveled best to ignore the rude gesture.

"Is something wrong with Kathryn?" an edge of concern rising to Sevens voice.

Snorting B’Elanna replied sarcastically "Nothing that a good hypospray won’t cure. What do you think, we were the only ones celebrating last night?"

"Some how I feel it is a comfort in knowing Kathryn is feeling exactly as I do" Sevens forehead cringed at the sound of her own voice.

"Yeah, that just goes to prove misery loves company. Tom told me they found her passed out in her bed with all of her clothes still on from last night. You’ll be glad to know you weren’t the only praying to the porcelain god this morning" the Klingon snorted loudly.

"I have not prayed to any deity this morning, still if it will make this pain go away I will gladly do so"

"Honestly B’Elanna, you’re such a witch stop teasing her she feels bad enough. Besides this is all your fault anyway"

"My fault how is it my fault all of a sudden?"

"Well, you know Seven can’t drink"

"Hey, I wasn’t exactly twisting her arm you know. She could have stopped if she wanted too"

"She would have if you weren’t so insistent on making a toast every three seconds" Seven was about to interrupt the ensuing argument when the soft ring of the door chime blessedly interrupted them.

"Enter"

The doctor entered and seeing the physical condition of the three women immediately pursed his lips. His obvious distaste present as he proceeded to thoroughly lecture the three women on the evils of alcohol consumption. Seven took his entire speech to heart, the adverse affects and pain not worth the effort.

The sudden affects of the hypospray began to relieve her discomfort immediately. The doctor continued his speech as B'Elanna rolled her eyes and Samantha silently begged for him to shut up.

"I guess I’m just wasting my time on you" the doctor eyeing B’Elanna disapprovingly, the soft hiss of the spray against her neck.

"What?" B'Elanna attempting to portray her innocence and failing miserably.

"Yes, that’s what I thought, I guess I’ll be leaving now. After all I have a wedding to perform, you’ll be happy to know Seven that thanks to me your betrothed to be will be able to stand and make it to the altar after all. It appears you have something in common with your future wife"

"I thank you doctor"

"Yes, well remember what I said, no more drinking"

"You have my word Doctor" Seven now thoroughly convinced of the evils of alcohol. B'Elanna smirked at her friend's sincerity, secretly patting herself in the back for a blow out bachelorette party.

The three women exited B'Elannas quarters and entered the turbolift, the lift descended enroute to the holodeck, B'Elanna doing her leveled best to adjust her own gown. The silk layers of the Fn'enghian garment constantly exposing more of her form then she desired.

"Kahless how the hell do those Fn'enghians women were this junk anyway? I'm surprised there weren't a thousand kids running around the place. I might as well be wearing nothing at all" as she attempted to place the shoulder wrap back into place.

Seven shook her head in distaste reaching over and removing the wrap and rebinding it to its correct position.

"That is because you are like Kathryn. The directions are quite simplistic and precise in describing how to properly bind the layers together. Ensign Wildman had no problems in binding her gown" Seven fastened a gold dove pin above B'Elannas left breast, her garment made of sapphire blue and gold silk.

"Yeah, well who's bright idea was it to get these gowns anyway?"

"I believe it was you, as I recall your exact words were "I just have to have it"" Sevens implant flexing as she smiled ruefully at her friend.

"Yeah and since when did you start listening to me?"

"It was your decision, not mine"

B'Elanna snorted "Well at least Tom will like it" her eyes lighting with anticipation. You know, come to think of it, all the time we were there did you ever see any children?"

B'Elannas two companions stared at her quizzically, each going over their encounter with the Fn'enghians in their own minds. Samantha Wildman answered first

"You know I did question that, but some how they managed to change the subject and I never got around to asking it again. It is odd, I can't say I recall seeing any children while I was there"

Seven tilted her head slightly her golden silvery implant reflecting the captured light of the turbolift. "We did not see any children either" Seven paused a moment and looked at B'Elanna questionably.

"Yeah, well I wouldn't doubt if there were none. A guy could lose his interest by the time he removes all these damn layers" B’Elanna tugged at her outfit in disgust.

"Indeed? I assure you Kathryn was quite adept at removing mine when we returned. As I recall it seemed to have intensified her desire" with that said she exited the turbolift elegantly, the layers of silk caught with the slight breeze as she walked, the fabric floated gently behind her before settling on her form.

Samantha and B'Elanna stared at each other, B'Elanna pursing her lips in disgust "You know I really hate her" The two women walked quickly in an attempt to catch up with her.

The music began to play as the three women arrived and took their prospective positions. Kathryn and Tuvok stood in front of the gazebo in their full dress Starfleet uniform. An obvious look of concern on her face, as she shifted restlessly and waited for her bride to arrive, Seven was already fifteen minutes late "No doubt due to B'Elanna" she thought dryly.

Seven stood behind B'Elanna, as the full impact of the event struck her and took her completely off guard. Her mouth suddenly went dry, her heart beat wildly and small beads of perspiration formed on her brow. She found herself unable to move as Naomi began her slow practiced steps down the aisle, followed by Samantha and B'Elanna.

Seven found her legs locked in place, her mind unable to command them to move. B'Elanna whispered quietly under her breath "Come on Borg, move those feet"

Seven was in a panic as she found every crewmember's eyes focused intently on her, her eyes shifted nervously. She felt a gentle nudge from behind, Ensign Gaines reassuring her quietly. She took the first awkward step forward the rest following mechanically.

Her mind in a quandary and unable to control her feet as she moved them. A small voice screamed in her ear, a last minute threat and call to arms to quickly flee the vicinity. The thought almost seemed plausible for a moment and she paused, until she saw Kathryn.

Her heart skipped a beat as she locked onto her eyes and found their warmth. A crooked grin appeared on Kathryn's face as she read Sevens thoughts clearly, her eyes a vibrant blue and filled with mirth. Seven walked the rest of the way in a trance, her eyes never leaving Kathryns. As she neared she found her heart rate decreased to a more acceptable level.

Tuvok leaned discretely into Kathryn and whispered quietly in her ear. "It appears Captain, Seven may have some reservations. Perhaps she has suddenly realized what she is getting herself into?"

Kathryn chuckled lightly and under her breath whispered back "It's too late now, I ordered a high security seal on the doors just in case" her eyes shining with laughter, Tuvok merely raised his eyebrow an indication he was amused with her response.

It appeared to Seven it took an eternity to reach Kathryn, her heart no longer sitting in her mouth as she reached out and grasped the elegant hand held out to her. Kathryn reassuring her with her touch, the warmth of her hand in hers calming her and bringing her back to reality.

Kathryn stared at Seven in awe and wander, the vision of Seven walking down the aisle astounding her every sense. She felt her knees weaken, as Sevens beauty swept her heart away. Her pulse raced wildly as she tried to control it, the anticipation building as Seven neared.

It appeared to Kathryn that Seven would never reach her, her pace painfully slow, Kathryn ached to enfold her in her arms and never let her go. She felt the sting in the back of her eyes as the emotions swept her and took her by storm. In that one instant Kathryn knew this was her destiny, that in this life time and many more to come she would always intertwine with this beautiful soul and become one.

Kathryns hands moved tentatively, shaking slightly, as she lifted Sevens veil, her breath catching as she caught the first glimpse of the beautiful soul well hidden in Seven. Their eyes locked onto each other and the rest of the world was forgotten, as their inner souls fused together and became one.

The doctor watched and quietly cleared his throat to break their spell. The two women returned to this reality and faced him.

"Ahem, Yes well, if we can begin. Crew of Voyager we are all here as family and friends. We have gathered today to witness the bonding between two of our own. It is in their love and commitment to each other that we are here. In their own words and in front of all their family and friends they would like to commit their vows to one another" the doctor looked at Kathryn and nodded his head.

Kathryn turned to Seven and held both of her hands in her own, her vibrant blue eyes emitted her undying love and devotion, she lowered her voice to a husky throaty timber.

"Seven of Nine, Annika Hansen, I have existed in this world solely to meet and love you. To you I freely give my love, my honor and my commitment to love only you. In you I have found the bane of my existence and know that I can not exist without you. I will be there to carry you when you are weak, to love you when you feel unloved, to cherish you when others take you for granted and to grant you the power of possessing my soul from this existence and unto others"

Seven swallowed deeply, a lump formed in her throat, as a single tear fell down her cheek, B'Elanna sniffled quietly in the background.

"Kathryn Janeway, I was born simply to become one with you. To you I give freely of myself all that I am with every fiber of my soul. In you I have found my humanity and the depth and strength of compassion a single individual can possess. I will be there to hold you when you are alone, to carry you when you no longer have the strength to continue, to love you through all of the darkness and bring you back to the light of our love. I give myself to you and only you from now until there is no further existence. Know that without you I would not have found my soul which can not exist with out you"

The doctor blinked, his program displayed a depth of emotion he was never meant to experience. The entire room was silent and in awe over the words so eloquently spoken. "Kathryn and Seven will now exchange their rings, a symbol of their bond and commitment to one another.

Naomi Wildman stepped forward, the red cushion soaked with her tears. The delicate platinum rings sat proudly, two women interwoven delicately, their arms reaching out to each other and becoming one.

Kathryn took the ring and slipped it delicately on Sevens finger "With this ring I commit my love and life to you"

Seven took the second ring and slipped it delicately on Kathryn's finger 'With this ring I commit my love and life to you"

B'Elanna stepped forward and handed the doctor a delicate white silk scarf, the doctor bonded both of their left hands together.

"Is it your wish Captain Kathryn Janeway to be bonded with Seven of Nine, Annika Hansen?"

"It is"

"Seven of Nine, Annika Hansen, is it your wish to be bonded with Captain Kathryn Janeway"

"It is"

"Then by the power vested in me by Starfleet protocol 247.54, I now pronounce you bonded. You may kiss the bride, I mean brides. Oh you know what I mean"

Kathryn leaned in and kissed Seven deeply, the depth of their love exposed for the first time to the crew of Voyager. B'Elanna was crying openly, as Kathryn and Seven released each other to the cheer of the crew. Tuvok stepped in and hugged Kathryn affectionately, Kathryn hugged him warmly in return and kissed him on the cheek.

B'Elanna wiped her tears and hugged her friend tightly as Seven kissed her forcibly on the mouth, the Klingon feigning anger and Seven laughing wildly.

The couple continued accepting the warm wishes and open affection as a procession quickly formed. Chakotay the last of the senior staff to approach the two women. As he neared his face became taunt, the smooth tattoo crinkled slightly, his eyes dark and intense. He tried to look at Seven as he spoke, but the sight of her face fueled his anger and he tore his eyes away.

"Congratulations, I hope you have a long life together" his voice tight and controlled

Seven tilted her head, her astute mind detecting his anger and attempt at disguising it "Thank you Commander" she ventured cautiously "We are most grateful you were able to attend" her hand involuntarily squeezed Kathryns tighter.

Kathryn watched the exchange between them with a keen eye and acute awareness. She found the recent behavior of her first officer erratic and at times hostile since Voyager left Fn’enghian air space. She noted his controlled anger towards Seven and set it in her mind to speak with him of it immediately.

Though she doubted Chakotay cared for her as anything other than a friend. She could detect he was harboring some resentment and anger towards Seven. A problem that could eventually result in serious ramifications of her command if not addressed immediately.

"Yes, thank you Chakotay, it's good to have everyone here like a family" Kathryn attempted to lighten his mood, Chakotay merely smiled at her and bowed his head gracefully then turned and left.

Kathryn watched his retreating form, her mind processed his actions, she rolled her left shoulder in an effort to dispel her internal alarm. Seven and B'Elanna exchanged quizzical looks, the Klingon shrugged her shoulders at Sevens unasked question, her eyes focused on Chakotay as she tried to read his thoughts.

The second holodeck was decorated for the reception and the women sat closely together at the bridal table. They continued receiving the flow of well-wishers and gifts as the reception went into full swing. Seven and Kathryn rose and stepped onto the dance floor for the first time as a bonded couple.

A soft love song from a twenty third century earth torch singer, Diane Morris playing, the words of the song symbolic to the couple, relating to the quest of finding an elusive love.

Kathryn led Seven to the center of the dance floor and placed her right arm around Sevens tapered waist. She pulled Seven to her closely, her body melting into Sevens and finding the familiar warmth. She inhaled deeply the sweet familiar scent, as she led her slowly and gracefully around the room. Her eyes never left Sevens as they spoke of the depth of her love.

Seven moved in perfect time with Kathryn, her movements languid and caressing the very essence of Kathryns being. Her mind centered on the beautiful classic face she would spend the rest of eternity waking up to.

Her heart beat rapidly as the emotions overwhelmed her and she leaned into Kathryn's ear and breathlessly whispered "I love you Kathryn, I always will"

Kathryn swallowed deeply as she closed her eyes and melded her body tighter to Sevens. Her thoughts swimming in euphoria over the love she held so delicately in her arms. She raised her head and kissed Seven deeply, the wealth of her emotions conveyed to Seven in a simple kiss.

The sweetness of Seven's mouth a taste of paradise for her and for once Kathryn felt completely whole. All of the past pain, guilt and self-doubt she carried was gone and all that remained was the enlightenment in knowing she was loved and could return it willingly and freely.

The song ended and they remained a moment longer before releasing each other and in a husky low voice Kathryn whispered "You are my beloved and I love you more than life itself"

Surprising Seven she reached out to her and sealed her words with a long and loving kiss. The crew applauded and cheered them on, until breathlessly she released Seven, their eyes sparking in unison with a renewed vibrancy, a testament of their love.

They returned to the table and after performing all of the traditional rituals insisted upon by B'Elanna they carefully exited unnoticed by the crew and headed to their quarters.

Upon arriving at the door they paused momentarily, Kathryn taking Sevens hands into her own "You realize this is the first time we are entering these quarters as a married couple?"

"Indeed" Sevens eyes aglow with warmth, the color of the sea touching the sky "There is still one tradition B'Elanna insisted I follow" and before Kathryn could protest she lifted her effortlessly into her arms and crossed the span of the threshold into their quarters.

Kathryns throaty laughter escaped unencumbered, her arms around Sevens neck as she leaned in and kissed her deeply. Seven held her tightly as Kathryn released herself from her arms and slid seductively along Sevens form. Her hands pressed firmly into Sevens back as she increased the intensity of their kiss.

Pulling away teasingly she whispered breathlessly "Hmm, you can do that to me anytime" Kathryn's eyes a deep rich blue.

"I will make sure to remember that" Seven reached for her playfully as Kathryn skirted out of the way.

"Make sure that you do" she tossed her head back and headed to the bedroom, Seven followed closely a warm smile touched her lips.

When they entered their bedroom the couple found a bottle of champagne sitting on ice, a gift from Tuvok and the crew. Kathryn lifted the bottle and poured two glasses, a warm smile touched her lips as she recognized the vintage from Chateau Picard. "I wonder where they got this from?" she marveled at the crews resourcefulness'.

Kathryn handed the glass to Seven and quickly noticed the flash of fear crossing her eyes as she accepted the glass, with a rueful smirk she added dryly "Is something wrong my love?" already aware of Sevens bout with alcohol from the evening before. "It is customary to toast our marriage" her eyes gleamed at Sevens facial expressions.

Seven hesitated slightly her stomach twitched as she looked at the glass in horror "I was not aware of that" her voice small and timid, biting down on the queasiness beginning to rise, she held her glass up. "What shall we toast too?" her mind secretly hoping it would not be reminiscent of a Klingon toast.

Kathryn stifled a smile and stepped closer to Seven her eyes gleaming with mischief "To us, may we never stop loving each other" she clinked her glass to Seven and watched through hooded lashes as Seven valiantly swallowed the golden liquid. Her face contorting slightly as she involuntarily held her stomach.

Kathryn removed the glass from her hand and kissed her warmly, the taste of the bitter champagne lingering on Sevens sweet lips, Kathryn delighted in the wonderful contrast. Seven enveloped herself into the kiss and found her queasiness subsided. The warm sweet flavor of Kathryns mouth drove the sickly feeling away as she put her arms around Kathryn and deepened their kiss.

Kathryn felt herself grow weak and with a terrible reluctance pulled herself away. She looked at Seven warmly and tilted her head to the side "I do love you. You simply take my breath away"

The words so openly stated and spoken with raw emotion. Seven blushed slightly and removed herself from Kathryn and entered the ensuite, closing the door behind her.

Kathryn remained staring at the door in wonder, despising being separated from Seven if only for a moment. She placed the two glasses down and disrobed, she reached for a long flowing nightgown made of fine silk and spun in gold. A wedding gift from envoy Pooran before their departure from Fn'enghia.

Seven was preparing in the ensuite, placing scented oils on her pulse spots as instructed by B'Elanna. She removed her wedding gown and slipped into a sapphire blue silk nightgown of Fn'enghian silk that was given to her by envoy Pooran. Envoy Pooran extracted a promise from Seven that she would wear it on the evening of her bonding. She checked herself in the mirror and pleased with the results exited the ensuite.

She was immediately struck by the enthralling figure of Kathryn dressed in a beautiful gold silk nightgown. The imposing figure took her breath away as she marveled at the sheer beauty of the woman. Her red hair hung loosely to her shoulders and her penetrating eyes a brilliant blue.

The contrast of lights and shadows between the golden color of the gown and Kathryns natural features assaulted her senses and left her momentarily stunned. Kathryn walked slowly and seductively towards Seven. The vibrant sapphire blue of the soft silk gown against her soft pale features astounded Kathryn.

The soft shadows of the passing stars caressed her features gracefully and gave her a regal appearance. Kathryn inhaled deeply as she neared, her voice low and soft "My God, you are exquisite. Your beauty never seizes to amaze me" and she enfolded her warmly into her arms. Her body pressed closely to Sevens until she felt her heart beat underneath her own.

"And you Kathryn are perfection, you are my Omega and I love you" Seven squeezed her tighter as they held each other and reveled in their love. They walked slowly to the bed, the soft sheets of satin calling to them. They paused by the edge and Kathryn took the moment to drink in the sight of her beautiful bride. She kissed her, their tongues intertwining with a sweet familiarity as the passion consumed them with a greater intensity.

Kathryn pulled away from her mouth and placed soft feathery kisses along the length of Sevens neck. Seven pulled her head back and moaned against the sweet gentle assault. Kathryn ran her hands down the length of Sevens sides removing the thin straps of her gown in the process. The warmth of Seven's skin drawing her like a moth to a flame. She traced down the length of her shoulders alternating between soft kisses and light suckles.

Sevens flesh burned with an intense desire as she surrendered herself willing to the being who possessed her soul. She slid the gown from her slowly and continued her exploration of the supple flesh. Seven moved her hands along Kathryn's form and enjoyed the exciting sensations of Kathryns hidden flesh beneath the soft silk fabric.

Her own hands removing Kathryns gown as it fell and landed to her feet. The immediate contact of warm supple flesh on flesh caused them both to shudder. As their hearts began to beat in a fast pace rhythm until finally they beat as one.

The soft whispers of love expressed freely and entangled between loving caresses. They moved to the bed slowly a practiced anticipation quenching their desire as they took long moments in exploring each other.

Seven laid on her back, Kathryns form half on her as she stroked her face gently and whispered lovingly into her ear. "You are my heart Seven" she kissed her softly, the kiss lasting an eternity, as her hands began their gentle caress.

She moved her hand slowly across her form until she reached her breast. Touching it softly and smoothing her hand over it, her fingers rolling across the raised bump. She continued her movement lower and captured her essence in her hand, Seven moaned into her mouth and her hips began a slow rhythmic motion.

Kathryn shifted her weight to the right and separated Sevens legs with her knee, the warm sweet essence of Seven bathing her immediately. She began moving her knee slowly matching the rhythm of Sevens hips. She continued placing kisses along her neck and moved downward until she captured the erect nipple in her mouth. Rolling it between her teeth and suckling on it gently.

The sensations from pleasing Seven aroused Kathryn and she wrapped her legs tightly between Sevens left leg. The movement of Sevens hips making her rise and fall, Kathryn's warm essence escaping and bathing her leg freely.

Seven raised her right leg and allowed Kathryn's hand further access. Her skillful fingers seeking the sensitive nodule and rubbing it languidly, as she continued her assault on the sensitive nipple with her mouth. She parted her sweet lips gently, and teased her further until Seven moaned in protest.

With a slow controlled movement she entered her, the muscles tightened instinctively against the long slender strokes. Her hips undulated with deep rising motions and Kathryn inserted a second digit, her own form rising and falling with Sevens. She shifted her mouth to Sevens and kissed her deeply, her entire being placed into the kiss when the first wave caught them both.

A warm purple light enveloped them as they rose and fell as one, their eyes closed deeply, their tongues joining and separating until becoming one. They felt as their souls touched deeply, warmed in the purple light blinding their closed eyes.

The image of envoy Pooran appeared above them, her smile warm and knowing, her white wings rising to flight, as she lifted their souls from their physical state and bound them into one. The second wave consumed them as the ecstasy of the joined souls consumed their very essence. Until slowly they spiraled down in unison, the image of envoy Pooran disappeared and left a warm aura of purple light behind her.

They two women took several moments to come to their senses, their inner beings retreating to their prospective owners. A light sheen of perspiration covered their bodies the joining of their souls leaving them breathless. Kathryn opened her eyes and noticed the soft warm glow of the room.

She raised her vision towards the window and noticed a purple nebula passing by. A warm sense of tranquility and inner peace filled her as she held tightly to the woman she loved with her entire being. Seven trembled under her arms, the intensity of their love touching her very soul.

"You have captured my soul and I love you with all that I am" Her mouth seeking Kathryns as she kissed her gently and thoroughly before releasing her.

"You are the bane of my existence and without you I am nothing. I love you with all my heart" Kathryn whispered into her ear. For some unexplainable reason a sudden weariness consumed them and they fell asleep in each other's arms. The afterglow of their love shined on their serene faces.

A brilliant triangular light of blue, aqua and green appeared, the forms of Michael, Raphael and Gabriel materializing. The aura of their lights filled the room with a soft glow. They gazed lovingly on the sleeping forms, tender smiles gracing their smooth angelic faces. Michael nodded and they raised their hands in unison, the arc of their power emitted from each of their hands.

Until the three rays of light joined and formed one, Michael raised his hands upwards his brilliant blue temporal eyes closing under the long satin black lashes. The lights struck the sleeping forms wombs and formed an arch until the two became one.

The cry of a babe was heard, as the tears rolled down the faces of the angelic beings. The faith and love shared between the two women encompassing time and forever etched into the life thread of the three beings.

The beings heard the protest of the beast as he hissed and screamed in anger. His voice reaching across the span of space and time. His ancient words in their native tongue spoken lyrically against their ears, his breath hot and sweet. "You have not won Michael" he hissed "The child will never see its birth"

The brilliance of the lights engulfed the room completely and swept through the span of Voyager, it's image glowing brilliantly against the darkness of space. Chakotays sleeping form convulsed violently and the many voices screamed into the night.

The Jackal appeared in his room and settled on his chest, its hot putrid breath falling against his ear. The beast filling him with its blood lust, Chakotay found himself running through the decks of Voyager. The voices resonated in his skull as he screamed out in protest, his hands pressed tightly against his head. He heard the voice of his true father call to him this time, warning him of the danger, but the voices turned louder and drowned out his words.

He tried to discard the distorted voices and focus on that of his father. But the multiple voices increased in protest, until the buzzing returned and he felt his inner life force explode against the assault. He felt the slow agony of death inside of him, the darkness consuming him and swallowing him whole.

His voice cried out in torture and agony, his body wrecked with the intensity of his pain, then the jackal crawled closer to his face and licked it gently and the pain subsided.

’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’

The following week was spent with Kathryn and Seven enjoying their new beginning as one. The senior crew assumed their responsibilities as the two women spent the time alone and unmolested.

They were in the holodeck, the San Francisco skyline in front of them. Lounging lazily on a chaise in the balcony, of the former home Kathryn left behind in the Alpha quadrant. Kathryn comfortably snuggled between Sevens long lean form, her head nestled against Sevens chest, rising and falling against her even breaths. Sevens hand ran idle long smooth strokes through Kathryn's hair the languid touches lulled Kathryn into a relaxed state.

Kathryn's laden eyes fought against the soothing effect, she gently turned her head upward and stared into the beautiful ice blue eyes. "Have I told you how much I love you? Love being with you like this?"

"At least four times today, however I never tire of hearing it" the back of Sevens hand ran smoothly down the length of her classic face. Sevens ice blue eyes burned with intensity and profound love, her heart skipped a beat.

Kathryn ran her hand lovingly along the long muscular leg, the soft touch caused the gooseflesh to rise immediately. Kathryn chuckled lightly, a smug smile touched her relaxed features. It always amazed her how her touch could cause such an immediate response from the cool young woman.

"I wish we could stay this way forever" her hand continuing its quest.

"As do I, however tomorrow we must return to our duties. Kathryn?"

"Yes my love"

"I believe I have discovered the flaw in my calculations regarding the slipstream drive. I sent the new calculations to B'Elanna and she has applied the changes, the slipstream drive is working" Seven inhaled deeply, anticipating Kathryn's response.

Kathryn's eyes clouded before clearing again, a million questions flowing quickly through her mind. "When?" an edge of fear coating her voice.

Seven detected the subtle change in tone "The day after our wedding, are you not pleased?"

Kathryn swallowed deeply before responding, her mind quickly assessed the ramifications of Sevens discovery. "No, I'm pleased" Her voice attempted to disguise her concerns.

"But you are concerned?" Seven seeing through her deception, detecting the slight stiffing of Kathryns form beneath her.

"Yes I am. I'm concerned for you" her breath increased, a sudden chill stealing into her heart.

"How so?" Sevens innocence unable to grasp the full ramifications of her discovery.

"Because it only bring us closer to the Alpha quadrant, earlier that what I anticipated and I'm concerned for you"

"I see, I…did not think of that" Sevens smooth features tightened, her face grew pensive. "I was only thinking of the others"

"I'm well aware of that darling, that's why I love you so much. You never think of yourself first regardless of the danger it can hold for you"

"I don't have to install it…However…" Seven stopped speaking her eyes closing.

"Continue" Kathryn prodded gently already aware of what her response would be.

"However, it would be wrong for us to deny the crew the right to return to their families, regardless of what it would mean too me" her voice tight with pain.

Kathryn closed her eyes, her right hand automatically rubbing them, the dull ache forming. She was unable to dislodge the lump in her throat. The truth behind Sevens words struck her harshly the cost of the discovery too high a price for her to pay.

"You're right" her voice cracked and she cleared her throat before she continued. "But I wish you would have told me before you gave B'Elanna the calculations. Now I can't control the outcome of the discovery, every crewmember will already know about it"

"Would you have stopped us from applying the changes?"

"I can't honestly answer that, it's quite possible I might have, I'm not sure. If we weren't so close too home I would never have hesitated. But the fact is we're only nine months away from our rendezvous with the Enterprise. We won't be so alone out here anymore. In two and a half years we'll reach earth, it would have been a smaller price to pay to have waited a while longer"

"If you were not in love with me would you have waited?"

"That isn't fair of you to ask of me" her body tensed slightly.

"My intention is not to hurt you with my words. But you must answer my question truthfully it is very important too me"

Kathryn breathed deeply, her eyes remained closed as she felt her heart sink. "All right, no, I wouldn't have waited"

Seven let out a long sigh of relief "Then my decision was correct. You are the most important thing in my existence. If I had allowed you to do this then I would have caused great harm to the being that you are. I love you for what you are and part of what you are is being a captain. In order to love you, I must accept all the things that make you what you are. Part of that is being a great leader and your heart has always placed the concerns of your crew before all else. To disallow that would be to demean and change a part of you that makes you a great individual. I would never be able to continue to exist if I was responsible for extinguishing that part of you. You must have faith in me that what I did was the right thing for both of us. I have you and I do not fear what lies ahead for me because I know that you are with me"

A silent tear rolled down Kathryn's cheek, her mind unable to deny the truth spoken, her voice trembled slightly. "Annika, as long as I live I will never know how it was that I was so fortunate to find you. To be loved by you has been the greatest accomplishment of my life. I know that what you say is the truth, but it doesn't mean that I have to like it. Please don't ever deny me the right to want to protect you"

"I am not trying to deny you that right Kathryn, I am simply redirecting it to find another solution. I have faith in you, faith in us, faith that we will find another solution. One that will not deny the crew the right to have what we have found with each other"

Kathryn snorted "Who's the teacher now I wonder? Whatever made me think I could teach you how to embrace your humanity? In truth, it appears you are now the teacher and I your humble student" Kathryn turned her body and hugged Seven tightly until she felt all of her anxieties relinquish their hold on her.

"We have taught each other Kathryn and will continue to do so for the rest of our lives" they kissed deeply and rising entered the bedroom and took their time in discovering the wealth of love and respect, allowing it to set the pace.