Elemental Bonds

Part Two

Kathryn busied herself in the ensuite as she finished dressing for dinner. She briefly wondered what Seven would make of her nervous preparations and hoped the young woman would not consider them irrelevant.

Brushing out her still slightly-damp hair so that it sat away from her face and curled just under her ears, she sprayed a small amount of perfume before slipping into a newly replicated cream camisole. Pulling on the neatly tailored black pants and teal-green silk shirt, she had to admit she didn't look too bad, though it had taken a ridiculous amount of time for her to decide what to wear.

With a final glance in the mirror, Janeway sent a silent prayer to whatever being assumed the role of Cupid in the Delta Quadrant that tonight went well. It was not until the door chime announced Seven's arrival that she realised she had given no thought as to what meal to serve her guest for dinner.

Cursing herself for being so easily distracted, she hurried into the living area, slowing her pace as she approached the door.

"Come in." Her voice was steady as she spoke.

She had not expected Seven to consider changing for the evening-- even throughout their short sabbatical she had remained in her bio-suit-- but as the doors swished open to reveal Seven of Nine, Kathryn realised that, without a doubt, she was in trouble.

Looking incredibly beautiful and, if it was at all possible, several years younger, Seven was wearing a pair of loose white pants and a pale blue t-shirt. Her hair was free from its customary bun and clasped loosely at the nape of her neck in a small ponytail. Kathryn suspected that her usual footwear had been replaced by something with slightly smaller heels, although her eyes refused to look down to confirm her suspicions.

"Seven," she managed to utter in a strangled voice.

"Is my clothing inappropriate?"

"No," Kathryn paused, intending to say more but unable to find the words.

"Then, may I come in?" she asked, taking a hesitant step forward.

Moving to one side to allow her to enter, Janeway mentally shoved herself into gear.

"Seven, you look beautiful. I..." Janeway reached out to place her hand on Seven's arm, feeling the smooth warmth of bare skin. "Your clothing is definitely appropriate."

"Thank you, Captain." Seven stood stiffly just inside the door.

Appropriate! I told her that her clothing was appropriate! Janeway berated herself as she slipped past her guest, heading for the replicator. "Did you want something to drink before we eat?"

"Yes, that would be acceptable." Seven appeared to relax as she followed Janeway into her quarters and the older woman hoped a glass of wine would settle her own nerves.

"Not coffee," Seven said suddenly.

Janeway grinned at the vehemence in her tone. "How about a wine, low alcohol?"

After waiting for Seven's acceptance, she programmed her request and watched as two glasses of sparkling, chilled white wine materialized. Passing one to her companion, Janeway considered whether they should sit on the couch or if the dining table would be more appropriate.

"Kathryn." Seven's voice interrupted her musings. "Your anxiety is causing my own heart rate to increase. Would it be possible for you to relax?

"No, Seven, not really." Tightening her hold on the cool glass, Kathryn's free hand sought Seven's, her fingers immediately curling around the mesh-encased digits that were beginning to feel familiar.

"It's been a long time since I was last on a date. I have no idea what we're doing," she admitted with an unsteady chuckle.

"Although my experience with dating is no doubt more recent, I do not believe that it would provide a suitable guide for this evening."

Kathryn considered that statement for a moment. She was still a little troubled by the fact that Seven had, not so long ago, dated Lieutenant Chapman, and her recent attempt to encourage Ensign Hoyt's attentions had been just as disturbing. "Because that date was with a man?"

"No, Kathryn," Seven replied, clearly confused by her question. "Because the incident was a failure. I do not wish to repeat that evening with you."

"Oh," Kathryn slowly released the breath that she was holding and smiled knowingly at her companion. "I don't think that's likely to happen."

"Why do you say that?"

"Because it's not important how delicious the meal is or that we dance perfectly; the fact that we are here, and have the opportunity to spend the evening together, is the only thing that matters." Kathryn ran her thumb over the side of Seven's hand, tightening her grip slightly as she spoke.

Seven was silent for a moment and Kathryn could see she was considering something. "You requested that we begin this relationship slowly."

"Yes, I think that would be best for both of us."

"Would it be too soon for me to kiss you?"

Kathryn laughed, all at once feeling herself relax, despite the sudden thudding of her heart. "I really wish you would."

The smile that those words created took her breath away and, as Seven closed the distance between them, their lips gently meeting, Kathryn realised suddenly that she was most likely in way out of her depth.

*

The remnants of dinner lay scattered on the table: two empty soup bowls, the limp remains of a salad, and a bright blue platter dotted with breadcrumbs. A soothing Vulcan melody played quietly and Kathryn closed her eyes, absorbing the complex movement of harp, pipe and drum as she leaned into the corner of the couch, its back and armrest supporting her.

"This really is remarkable. How did you discover it?" She opened her eyes just enough to look at her date.

Seven sat almost sideways on the couch, one knee tucked close to her chest, looking more relaxed and comfortable than Kathryn could ever remember seeing her.

"I was researching the cultural differences inherent in music. This artist lived on Vulcan almost two thousand years ago."

"The Time of Awakening."

"Yes. This music represents his struggle to understand and control his emotions."

"It doesn't sound like he was very successful."

"Perhaps not. Nevertheless, I find I enjoy listening to his music. Modern Vulcan works, while just as complex, are more structured. I find them lacking."

"You amaze me," Kathryn murmured with a mixture of astonishment and pride.

Seven looked slightly surprised at the comment. A faint pink blush creeping along her neck as she lowered her gaze, obviously choosing to study their entwined hands rather than meet Kathryn's eyes.

"I am still stunned by the fact that of the 141 people on board Voyager, you would choose to spend this evening with me."

Seven looked up at her words, her eyes intent as she caressed the hand she held, running her fingertips from elbow to wrist. "There is no one else on this vessel, indeed on any vessel or planet that I have encountered, that I have ever considered sharing an evening like this with."

Kathryn was unable to look away, her body frozen as she lost herself in the warmth of sky-blue eyes, almost forgetting the need to breathe. Her arm tingled where Seven's fingers had trailed fire along the sensitive skin. The muscle in her thigh jumped, fighting to move closer to the heat of Seven's leg, already so close she could feel their clothing brush together.

"Flatterer," Kathryn said lightly, desperately needing a moment to regain her composure. Seven, it seemed, had other plans.

"My body is reacting to the changes in your physiological responses."

Kathryn took a deep breath, willing her eyes not to close. "That's natural."

"When we are together, like this, I find I am unable to control my reactions towards you. Do you experience a similar lack of control?"

"I can't help but react to you. Even when we are not alone, I am always aware of your presence on some level."

"As am I. I find that I become more certain of myself, more confident in whom I have become since being separated from the Collective. Less alone."

"Seven, if it is within my power, I promise you, you will never feel alone again."

Closing the distance between them, Kathryn brushed her lips over the soft mouth that rose to meet her. The kiss was delicate, and when Seven did not immediately press forward, Kathryn turned her head to allow their cheeks to touch ever so slightly.

Entangling their hands, Seven returned the intimate caress, the soft skin of her cheek and temple sliding across Kathryn's, her breath tickling against the older woman's ear.

The unexpected moist warmth of Seven's lips against her throat caused Kathryn to moan, her arms encircling the form that pressed delightfully against her, pulling Seven closer.

A hand found its way to her side, gently sliding across the silk of her shirt, tickling the skin underneath. Seven's mouth slowly travelled the length of her throat and along her jaw. Kathryn arched her neck giving the young woman room to explore until finally their lips met.

A small groan rumbled from Seven's throat, followed by a sigh as Kathryn's hand moved to touch the side of her face, her fingers gliding through the strands of blonde hair that had fallen loose from their clasp.

Relaxing fully onto the couch, Kathryn encouraged Seven to move with her as their kiss deepened, their tongues hesitantly touching before moving away. Seven's lips were incredibly soft as they nipped and sucked, never stopping in their movements; alternating between pressing firmly against Kathryn's mouth and feather-light touches that made the older woman want to beg for more.

A half-formed thought flickered across Kathryn's mind as part of her wondered where the former drone had learned to kiss as she was, before it was abruptly silenced by the gentle weight of Seven's body pressed into her.

With one hand curving around the back of Seven's head, Kathryn allowed the other to roam over the younger woman's back and side, pulling her down as she felt her own body respond to the glorious pressure of a Borg enhanced thigh as it nestled between her legs.

Seven's lips left hers briefly and Kathryn was amazed by the sound of her own name spoken with all the love and tenderness that she herself felt. With a ragged breath she lifted herself up, seeking and finding her lover's mouth, her hands discovering the naked skin under Seven's shirt.

Their kisses slowed as a hand move to cup the side of Kathryn's face and, as the intoxicating weight of Seven's body gradually lessened, she opened her eyes.

"Seven?" Janeway questioned, her body unconsciously seeking to move closer to the disappearing warmth.

Seven continued to move away until she was once again seated on the couch, just out of Kathryn's reach. Sitting up straight, the Starfleet captain drew in an unsteady breath.

"I am sorry, Seven, I never meant to rush you. "

"You are not rushing me, I simply intend to delay the progression of our intimacy."

"Delay...?" Kathryn questioned, her face creased with confusion. "Why?"

"You requested that we proceed with our relationship slowly. And I was informed that it is inappropriate to make love on the first date."

"First date?" Kathryn asked, flustered by the sudden turn of events.

"The first evening of dinner," she explained calmly.

"We had dinner together on the planet!" Janeway insisted, hating the demanding tone that had entered her voice.

"That was different," Seven replied, sounding uncertain.

"How?"

"That was not a date." Seven's statement was almost a question as the two women studied each other.

"You are angry?" Seven said after a moment, her words uneven.

"No, not angry," Kathryn said with a tiny laugh as she moved to rest her hand on Seven's knee. "Just incredibly aroused and a little annoyed at myself. You're right, we should wait."

The two women were quiet for a moment before Seven took a deep breath. "I don't think I want to wait any more," she complained.

"But you just said...."

"I was in error. It is illogical for us not to make love."

Kathryn sat wide-eyed and staring at her companion, trying to make sense of the conversation. Exasperated, she stood and paced a few steps before turning back towards the couch. "Seven! Forget it?" A rueful chuckle escaped her at the disappointed expression on the blonde woman's face. "We're not doing anything right now," she finished with a warm smile.

"I am sorry."

"Don't be." Returning to her seat, Kathryn covered Seven's hands with her own. "I had a wonderful time tonight."

"As did I. Would you prefer that I leave?"

"No, I would prefer you to stay. But not tonight." Dipping her head for a kiss, Kathryn permitted herself just one before leaning away.

"You are very beautiful, Seven." With one hand, Kathryn brushed several loose strands of blonde hair back behind a delicate ear.

"I find it difficult to believe that this is real," Seven whispered, leaning into the caress.

"Me too, love. What you mean to me... you are a gift."

Seven smiled shyly, her gaze never wandering from the Kathryn's face. "I will see you tomorrow night?"

"You'll see me at the briefing tomorrow morning."

"That does not count, I can not touch you then." Seven almost pouted.

"Til tomorrow night then," Kathryn began, only to be silenced by soft lips.

Seven abruptly stood and moved towards the door before Janeway was able to register that she had stopped kissing her.

"Good night, Kathryn," she said, disappearing into the corridor.

It seemed she had only just managed to fall asleep, after a full hour of tossing and turning, when Tuvok informed her the Gragan required her presence on their vessel.

Moving quickly, the captain left the comfortable mattress and dressed in the clean uniform she kept, out of habit, beside her bed. Sparing a minute to wash her face and straighten her hair, she headed towards the door, pulling on her shoes as she went. Years of red-alerts allowed her to be completely dressed in minutes, even if it did mean forgoing her morning cup of coffee.

The bridge was fully illuminated, despite the early hour, and as Janeway made her way from the turbo-lift to her command chair she took note of the officers manning each station. The faces were all familiar to her. Although, as she rarely worked Gamma shift, the captain had to admit that it was some time since she had worked closely with any of them.

Greeting each of her crewmembers by name, she settled into her chair. "Report, Tuvok."

"We received a communiqu頦rom the lead scout ship several minutes ago. They have requested that you be present during the negotiations."

"Via comms?" Janeway asked.

"I do not believe so, Captain. Gragan has sent a list of guidelines and requirements for your attendance."

"I see," she replied neutrally and turned to access the logs. Quickly scanning the record of Tuvok's conversation, she opened the file the Gragan Prime had sent regarding the protocols for the meeting.

After a full minute, Janeway looked up from the screen and turned towards her security officer. "Assemble the senior staff," she called before returning her attention to the file.

*

"Negotiations are to be held on the lead scout vessel. The Gragan will handle transport, and all weapons and shields are to remain off-line during the discussions. I am permitted to bring an advisor and a personal aide," Janeway recited, summarising the instructions for her senior officers.

"How long are the negotiations expected to last, Captain?" Chakotay questioned.

"I'm not sure, Commander. All parties are required to remain on board the Gragan vessel until a decision has been reached or until released by the representing Prime. I can only hope that things run a little more smoothly than last time."

Standing, Janeway took a moment to study her hastily assembled officers before crossing to the display station to one side of the conference room.

"It is not the negotiations, however, that interest me." Calling up a series of charts on the console the captain turned to face her crew.

Torres and Chakotay straightened in their seats, curious about the change in focus of the meeting. Harry leaned forward, his dark eyes intent on the data flicking across the screen. Tom and Tuvok twisted their chairs to better see the console behind them. Only Seven of Nine, already familiar with the charts and the information they revealed, met the captain's gaze.

"Astrometrics has been analysing data from the Gragan vessels: their propulsion method, transporters and tractor beam. The preliminary results are intriguing," Janeway began. Calling up another series of graphs on the computer she gave each of her crew time to digest what they could before continuing. "It appears they are capable of manipulating space at its most basic level."

B'Elanna was the first to interpret the readings on screen. "You're suggesting that they are destroying up-quarks? Harnessing gluonic energy to power their engines? Is that possible?"

"Theoretically, yes. Although the technology to do so is well beyond that of the Federation or any species encountered by the Borg. There is also the possibility that they are not destroying the up-quarks but harvesting them," Seven added, speaking directly to the engineer.

"For what purpose?" Tuvok asked, one eyebrow raised in interest.

"We're not sure," the captain admitted. "Nor do we know how, if this is indeed what they are doing."

Janeway waited while her officers familiarized themselves with what information they had gathered. Tuvok sat impassively, only the corners of his eyes and his brow moving slightly as he ran theories and scenarios through his head. Torres leaned towards Seven of Nine quietly asking her to expand on one point or explain her reasoning on another while Tom and Harry compared notes as they tapped at a data PADD searching for clues.

Chakotay finally interrupted the soft murmur of conversation. "Captain, it's been a long time since my academy physics classes. Exactly what does this mean for Voyager?"

"A potentially limitless source of energy; one that is as powerful as it is plentiful. A method of propulsion far superior to warp-drive, or even slipstream for that matter." The captain's excitement was obvious as she spoke, her hands dancing with each possibility. Walking back towards her seat, she stopped beside her first officer. "It could be our way home, Commander."

Taking her place at the head of the long table Janeway met the gaze of each of her crew, wanting to be certain that they understood at least the opportunity they had been presented with if not the science behind it.

"Now, in two hours my presence is required at the negotiations. Tuvok, I take it you won't have any objections to accompanying me as my aide?"

Tuvok offered a small nod in reply, neatly concealing his relief at not having to remind the captain of the importance of a security officer.

"Seven, I want you with me as well. Work with B'Elanna and come up with a way to continuously record and relay data from their vessel back to Voyager for analysis. Mr. Kim, find out exactly what details we already have from your earlier scans and what information we are missing. The Gragan will be coordinating the transport to their ship. I am not sure if a tour of their engine room will be a possibility," Janeway smiled, "but any information regarding their technological or scientific achievements could be invaluable."

The captain paused to allow her officers a chance to comment. When all were silent she laid her palms flat on the table's surface and leaned back in her chair. "Two hours," she reminded them. "Dismissed."

Captain Janeway, Tuvok and Seven of Nine stood on the transporter platform awaiting the Gragan's signal. They could have beamed off from any part of the ship but Janeway had privately decided that if she were going to trust her atoms to an unknown technology she would at least do it in the familiar surrounds of her own transporter bay.

The doctor had injected them each with hylephrazone, a chemical used in the early days of matter-energy testing to track and record the experiences of individual atoms, in the hope that their bodies might prove to be another source of data.

In the event that tricorders were not permitted on board, Seven's optical implant had been adjusted to scan for fluctuations or changes in the behaviour of local elemental particles. While attempting to see the particles herself only made the former drone dizzy, they had nevertheless been able to program her implant to send modified images directly to her cortical node.

"Captain," Ensign Carter called from her station, "The Gragan vessel has indicated that it is ready to begin the transfer."

"Thank you, Ensign. Maintain a transporter lock..." Janeway hesitated as she felt a sudden shift. For an instant it felt as though she was moving and the world was travelling too fast for her eyes to register more than a blur of colour. Before her mind had hardly a chance to adjust to the movement, she was once again stationary, balanced and her vision clear. There was none of the disorientation that Starfleet officers had long become accustomed to, nor any sensation of being not-quite-there that Federation scientists had been so far unable to avoid.

"I could get used to that," Janeway remarked, only partly to herself, as she looked around the room into which they had been shifted.

The flooring beneath them was semi-translucent and Kathryn would have been hard-pressed to say of what colour or material. The room was somewhat circular, with the floor itself seeming to curve upwards to eventually become the walls and ceiling. There was nothing to break the monotony of space, nor provide reference for distance or size.

"Captain, I believe we are standing inside a large force-field." As Tuvok spoke Janeway was surprised to find that his voice did not echo in the cavernous room. "There is no substance to either floor or walls."

"Not the most reassuring thing I've heard today. Thank you, Tuvok." Janeway looked at her feet, not at all convinced that she liked the idea of walking. Motion in her peripheral vision bought her attention back to her companions.

Seven walked past her, seemingly unconcerned with the surface, or lack thereof, upon which she was treading.

"The molecular structure of this vessel is... unusual. I am relaying data to Voyager." Seven seemed to stare unseeing into space. Janeway wondered how her modified implants viewed the room.

Just as the captain began to feel a little unsure about how to proceed, a figure approached. His legs appeared to move too slowly for the rate at which he closed the distance between them and Janeway was reminded of the way in which the holodeck altered light waves to create the illusion of distance where there was none.

"Captain Janeway, friends, welcome. Mediations have begun. Your presence is desired," the newcomer spoke unevenly. Despite the fact that the universal translator converted his speech into Federation Standard it was clear that this kind of communication was difficult for him and Janeway wondered briefly what his native language sounded like.

"We are sorry to have kept you waiting. If you could show us the way," Janeway suggested, already heading towards him.

Their footsteps were silent on the ship's floor and the Starfleet captain looked to each side of her to ensure that her officers were indeed following. No more than a half-dozen steps bought them to a different room. Janeway registered an increase in light and a muffled hum before another step revealed a partially filled conference room and the sounds of a heated exchange.

Janeway suspected that the unusual vessel was composed of rooms-within-rooms-- the Gragan's advanced understanding, and evident ability to control matter and space, was reflected in the design of their ship.

A soft mumble from Seven drew her attention. The captain was interested to see what the astrometrics officer's scans had revealed, but she received no more than a puzzled look and a raised brow before the Gragan Prime was speaking to her and all three officers were hustled to their places.

*

"This is completely irrelevant, Verkold!" Imojan yelled, only just managing to be heard over the booming voice of her smaller adversary. "I don't care if your father's father grew gobwheat on your moon, it has no bearing on this transaction!"

Janeway had to admit that she, too, had found the way in which the Carn representative hid accusations and innuendo in anecdotal tales of his childhood a little frustrating. It seemed on more than one occasion that he was trying to link Voyager's presence on this small, out-of-the-way planet to the destruction of his hometown and the failure of his world's agricultural system.

"Delhari, I can understand that you would have no concept of world-pride, having never nurtured and loved your own planet, but I would request that you at least permit me mine!" Verkold, standing to his full height, spoke condescendingly to the Delhari diplomat. "Perhaps you can not see how the occupation of these outsiders has corrupted this world. Perhaps you are willing to ignore the potential for disease and contamination from their various biologies. I, however, am not! And, as per section 134 of the Gragan Colonization Conventions, without a challenger you can not proceed with your petition." Verkold sat suddenly and glowered at the space directly in front of him.

Janeway wondered if anyone was going to comment on or refute his statements. Looking at each of the speakers and their aides, she realised that they were just as tired as she was. There had been no way for her to determine how much time had passed since the meeting had commenced. Even if their tricorders had not been placed on a side bench by the entrance when they arrived, she would not have been able to access any form of data storage device not approved by the Prime. Janeway estimated that they had been arguing for the better part of a day. Every time it seemed they were close to agreeing, Verkold would create another problem or claim another insult.

The Gragan Prime sat as mediator, only commenting on occasion and, for the most part, limiting his comments to the legalities of their claims. The silence continued for long moments, Imojan staring stunned at Verkold while he grinned smugly to his assistant.

"What was the original starting bid for the planet?" Seven asked unexpectedly, gaining the attention of everyone in the room.

"A thousand ty-harnoo," the Gragan Prime informed them.

Seven raised her brow, appearing to consider the sum. "A thousand ty-harnoo seems far less than the value of this world considering the scans...." Seven paused mid-sentence, appearing to consider something.

Kathryn was puzzled by the expression on the young woman's face. She seemed to be both studying the two opposing diplomats and rapidly making calculations of her own.

"Voyager would like to make an opening bid of twelve hundred ty-harnoo," Seven stated suddenly. Standing gracefully, she stood beside her chair forcing both the Carn and Delhari negotiators to follow her movements.

Janeway's eyes narrowed as she tried to lean closer to her officer. She stared at Seven, hoping to gain her attention, more than surprised or simply curious about the impulsive woman's intentions. The last thing they needed was to involve themselves further in this dispute. But, if they could encourage Verkold to climb down from his fence....

"Outrageous!" Verkold spat as he stood abruptly and stepped closer to their mediator. "They have no right to enter this negotiation!"

"I must agree with Verkold," Imojan added, her tone indicating her distress at the turn of events, despite the fact that she remained in her seat. "Without preliminary studies to determine their suitability as residents any bid made here is academic."

"Their suitability is being processed. Voyager's bid will be accepted pending confirmation," the Gragan representative whispered roughly, inclining his head towards Seven. "Do you wish to re-submit your petition?" he asked Verkold.

The smaller man stood quietly for a moment, his attention fixed on Voyager's astrometrics officer. Janeway watched with some concern as the two studied one another; Verkold's stance was bordering on hostile. She was a little surprised that it was Seven who first turned away from the silent battle of wills.

Dipping her head, the former Borg returned to the table, taking her place beside Janeway. Behind her, Verkold grimaced as he, too, rejoined the group.

Janeway turned to her right, a slight frown creasing her forehead as she silently questioned the woman's actions. A tiny smile and an amused arching of a dull metallic implant was her only answer.

"The Carn re-submit their petition." Verkold's anger was obvious, his cheeks drawn back in a sneer as he spoke, revealing dis-coloured teeth.

"Accepted."

Imojan sat up a little straighter in her chair, focusing her attention now that it appeared negotiations were finally resuming. Across from her, Captain Janeway relaxed into the cushion backed seat. She wasn't entirely sure what Seven was planning, but at least her impromptu bid had bought an end to Verkold's petty complaints.

Now only one problem remained: what if their bid was successful?

Janeway was convinced the grumbling in her stomach was audible. Not for the first time she envied Lt Commander Tuvok's Vulcan self-discipline and Seven of Nine's Borg endurance. Her own Human physiology was none too gently informing her that it required sustenance. Now.

The Carn and Delhari delegates had been deep in debate for an hour or more with only occasional comments from either herself or Seven to keep the ball rolling. Tuvok had remained quiet throughout the discussions and Janeway was unsure if it was from lack of interest or if he disapproved of the way in which they were manipulating the talks.

Janeway suspected that their gentle prods would have little bearing in the end. The Gragan Prime certainly seemed unmoved by them and the captain suspected that custodianship of the planet would depend on more than the results of today's contest of wills.

While relieved that Voyager's presence in the area no longer seemed important to either Imojan or Verkold, Janeway was disappointed in the lack of opportunity to direct conversation towards either the Gragan or their technology. As impartial mediators, none of his people were involved in the talks in any way. The two aides that protocol permitted the Prime stood motionless, eyes closed, behind their leader.

Kathryn had to admit that if she could not eat, then sleep was possibly the next best option; she had not rested well the night before. That memory was quickly followed by what had caused her restless night and Kathryn caught herself before the beginnings of a smile could ruin her mask of polite interest.

The sudden realisation that it was quite likely nearly dinner time, and that these negotiations were possibly going to continue into the night, bought her upright in her seat.

She almost suspected the Gragan of having read her mind when he spoke, interrupting Verkold's assistant as he recited a list of military generals commended for brave service.

"I regret to inform you, Janeway, that your Federation's petition to Dragatti II must be withdrawn." The attention of each person in the room was focused on the thin mediator whose authority was undeniable, despite the hoarse whisper of his voice. "Do you deny or confirm that you were involved in recent hostile manoeuvres between the Brennan and the Jarkart and in the terraforming and re-colonization of their planet?" he asked, his tone calm and unthreatening despite the gasp of surprise from both Delhari and Carn.

"I confirm that we were involved in their dispute," Janeway replied evenly.

"Your alliance with the Jarkart would unacceptably alter the balance of this region. I must ask you to withdraw your claim."

"I understand your concerns and, under the circumstances, we will withdraw our petition."

"It would be inappropriate for you to remain for the duration of this bid in light of this information. If none object...." He paused to allow comment. Janeway worried for a moment that Verkold would speak; instead he continued to glare silently in her direction. "Then I call for a recess to allow the Federation to depart."

*

Chilled water and a platter of soft round biscuits were bought into the room as the twelve occupants stood and surreptitiously stretched muscles made stiff from sitting so long. Having collected a drink and a number of biscuits, Janeway found herself standing next to the Delhari representative.

"I would like to apologise, Imojan, if Voyager's presence here has caused difficulties for your people."

"There is no need. I think, if anything, you may have assisted us. The Carn were not ready for the bid. Forcing his honour, the Gragan, to choose so soon is in our favour I think." The two women moved away from the small group so they could talk more easily. "Verkold can be stubborn. Your advisor was clever to threaten to bid against us." Imojan smiled conspiratorially.

Janeway laughed quietly, "I am only glad that our bid was not accepted. We have no wish to remain here any longer than necessary. I hope the negotiations go well for you from here."

"I believe his honour will wish for a quick resolution. The Gragan prefer to avoid disputes and will rule fairly."

Given the opening, Janeway turned their conversation to the Prime and his race. "The Gragan rule this area of space?"

"Yes, and have since before the Delhari walked off-planet. Although they had not yet made contact, my people had legends of them long before that," Imojan began.

Janeway nibbled on another biscuit as she listened to the silver-haired woman relate a common children's story about ghostly prophets that walked on clouds.

Behind them Tuvok was deep in conversation with Verkold's senior aide. Across the room Seven stood silently beside one of the white-robed Gragan, neither seeming to speak.

Captain Janeway reclined at her ready-room desk, coffee in one hand, data PADD in the other, as she read through the reports Tuvok and Seven had prepared. A bowl of hastily eaten vegetable soup had taken the edge off her hunger and Kathryn was looking forward to concluding the staff meeting scheduled in ten minutes, and then relaxing with a late dinner and a bottle of wine... if her dinner date was agreeable.

The information she and her officers had obtained in the brief recess was more than a little disappointing, despite its incredible scientific significance.

As it turned out, the Gragan were quite forthcoming with information, once asked, and made no attempt to either conceal or deny their ability to control energy and matter. The only thing they would not discuss was how they altered the fabric of space.

It seemed they had no concept of elemental particles, atoms or molecules, and did not agree that life was made up of tiny invisible pieces held together by unbreakable bonds. The universe was simply there and they moved among it: sometimes changing, sometimes bending or shifting, but never altering its harmony.

Seven's report had included much of her telepathic conversation with the Prime's assistant. Apparently he had been fascinated by their concept of quantum physics: halves of a whole that were not complete without the other, that were so reliant on the balance that their mate bought that the bond between them was inescapable.

Janeway got the impression that he thought the whole idea rather romantic and she wondered if she could possibly have Seven explain quantum dynamics to her.

Turning off her monitor, she gathered her bowl and mug and returned them to the replicator.

They had been asked to remain in orbit for the short time it would take to finalize the discussions between the Delhari and Carn. Although Gragan had requested that their weapons remain offline, Janeway felt more secure having Voyager's sheilds firmly in place.

Collecting her PADD on the way out Janeway headed to the conference room looking forward to a brief meeting and long dinner.

"I'm glad you're here," Kathryn said quietly, not wanting to break to intimate peace between them.

Ocampan pipe music played in the background of the dimly lit room. A single pale-yellow candle cast flickering light and shadow on the wall. The two women who lay entwined on the couch ignored both.

Seven's weight pressed gently upon the older woman's chest as she leaned against her. Soft blonde hair brushed the exposed skin of Kathryn's throat and the side of her face. One arm draped over Seven's shoulder and lay resting between her breasts, their fingers caressing where the Borg enhanced arm held her own in place.

"You did well today with the Gragan," Janeway said casually, unaware that her thoughts had turned back to the day's events.

"Thank you, Captain," Seven replied as she pressed back slightly where she sat between the other woman's legs.

The slight intake of breath from close beside her ear told her that her aim was accurate.

"I wish you wouldn't call me 'captain' when you're doing that with your bottom!" Janeway said half-laughing.

"I wish you would focus a little less on being the captain and a little more on my bottom," Seven replied, turning in her seat.

They smiled at each other for a time before Kathryn finally spoke, "Agreed."

Twisting to allow them both room on the small couch, Kathryn placed her hands on Seven's waist and guided her closer. Her lips, when they finally met her own, tasted faintly of the wine they had drunk and the sweet pie she had replicated for desert.

Long moments passed as they lost themselves in exploration, unable to think of anything but the smoothness of skin and the soft wetness of each other's mouth.

Seven slowly became bolder in her actions, using the tip of her tongue to trace the edge of Kathryn's bottom lip before catching it between her teeth, her tongue then wrapping itself around its mate, twirling and flicking as she lightly invaded the older woman's very willing mouth.

Seven's fingertips travelled constantly, never settling in one place or caressing only long enough for the normally restrained woman to become almost frantic in her need for contact. Reciprocating the torture, Kathryn teased the skin below Seven's breasts, moving close only to change direction entirely.

The sound of her name muffled against the skin of her throat sent a bolt of energy straight to her groin and Kathryn decided it was entirely likely that she would reach orgasm without ever being touched directly by the beautiful woman in her arms.

"I have wanted to make love to you for far too long, Seven, to do it like this!" Kathryn gently pulled away and leaned back on the armrest of the couch.

The younger woman's hands never left her body, one hand sliding under the edge of Kathryn's blouse and over the curve of her stomach while the other caressed the side of her hip, gently pulling them closer.

"You don't like it 'like this'?" Seven asked, not waiting for an answer and instead leaning in for another kiss.

Kathryn gave in to the sweet torture of Seven's mouth and the warm hand that had now found her breast and was removing her bra. The weight of a thigh between her legs caused her hips to buck and she wrapped her arms around the young woman and pulled her nearer.

"You feel... incredible, Kathryn," Seven whispered as she trailed kisses across her lover�s ear and throat, the unexpected rush of emotion inspiring her normally sparse vocabulary. "I never imagined this would be how we would feel together."

"Seven," Kathryn sighed, "I need you naked. I need me naked. And I need much more room."

Janeway thought she heard Seven laugh as the young woman moved away, the abrupt loss of contact making her feel suddenly bereft. A pale hand, enclosing her own and bringing her easily to her feet, sent tendrils of warmth spiralling through her again.

"Don't make me wait, Kathryn. I need to make love with you. I don't think I can wait," Seven murmured between kisses. Her face pressed into the curve of Kathryn's neck.

Leading her backwards without breaking contact, the auburn-haired woman moved them towards the bedroom. Unbuttoning her own blouse she let it drop to the floor, followed quickly by her already-undone bra. Seven stood motionless beside the bed, her eyes moving between Kathryn's face and her newly revealed chest. Her fingers twitched by her side.

Enclosing the nervous fingers in her own, Kathryn stood on the balls of her feet and kissed the lips that lowered to meet her. Releasing their hands she lifted Seven's blue-grey shirt over her head.

The moan that escaped her was one of pure pleasure as they stood skin to skin: their breasts pressed together, arms and mouths entangled. Passion replaced any thought of savouring the experience.

Seven's hands cupped and squeezed the soft weight of Kathryn's rear and forced their hips together. When Kathryn's mouth dropped to explore the ivory-white breasts that had, until tonight, been forbidden to her, Seven moaned so deeply she almost growled. An answering flood of moisture ran between Kathryn's legs.

Insistent fingers found the clasps of her trousers and, in a matter of seconds, the Starfleet captain felt smooth fingers sliding under the satin of her pants. Stepping out of her clothes she directed Seven towards the bed, undoing the fastenings on the remainder of the Borg's clothing as she went.

"Lay down, my love," Kathryn said, her voice rough with arousal.

Moulding their bodies together on the mattress they lay without moving; their eyes connected and held by some invisible bond. Maintaining the contact, Kathryn wrapped her arms around Seven's waist and hooked one leg around her narrow hips.

Seven's right hand rested on the small, firm breasts below her while her other palm traced the line of the smaller woman's body from ribs to knee. Caressing the smooth leg that lay draped over her hips, Seven's hands once again found the rounded globes of Kathryn's bottom.

"Kathryn," Seven whispered, her tone almost a question as her fingers slid between her legs and found the centre of her sex.

Kathryn groaned and arched into her lover, her own smaller fingers moving to entangle themselves in the fine growth of pale blonde hair at the apex of Seven's legs. The wetness she found as she explored more thoroughly sent a pulse of energy straight to her clitoris and she pressed down hoping to direct the curious fingers to where she needed them most.

Dipping first one, and then a second fingertip, into Seven's vagina she brought her hand away. Brushing ever so lightly over the tip of the inexperienced woman's clitoris she smiled at the answering groan of pleasure and frustration.

Opening Seven fully, she changed positions, angling her pelvis and entangling their legs to bring them together. Claiming her lips once more, Kathryn kissed her deeply, the motion of their tongues and lips matching the buck and sway of their hips.

Kathryn felt Seven begin to tense in her arms, the strangled groan that reverberated in her throat evidence that that young woman was close to orgasm. Increasing the contact between their legs Kathryn slowed her movements and, holding tight to the other woman's hips, gently slid the velvet wetness of her labia over Seven's clitoris.

Reacting instantly, Seven pressed their bodies closer, her words muffled by Kathryn's mouth as she cried out, her body shuddering with the strength of her climax. Sliding her hand between them, Kathryn pressed a single finger inside the younger woman. As the tight muscles of Seven's vagina held and throbbed around her, Kathryn felt her own body explode in orgasm.

Not wanting to let go, the two women continued to caress and stroke, trailing small kisses across cheek or shoulder as their heartbeats slowed and they drifted into slumber.

The insistent chirp of a comm badge woke the captain. Feeling the warmth of Seven's body cradled against her own she wrapped her arms around the thin waist and snuggled closer, the reason for her waking forgotten.

A second chime a moment later bought her fully awake. Sitting up, and calling for half-illumination, she groped on the night-stand for her badge. Seven stirred slightly beside her bringing her hand to rest on the curve of her hip.

The Starfleet captain was unable to prevent herself from smiling at the unconscious gesture. Locating the communications device she tapped it before speaking, "Janeway here."

"Sorry to disturb you, Captain," Commander Chakotay said, "I have a message for you from the Gragan. Imojan, from the Delhari vessel, would also like a quick word."

Blue eyes regarded her silently in the low-lit room as Seven woke. The astrometrics officer smiled faintly and, although she moved to give the captain some space, did not remove her hand from its place at the top of her hip.

"What did the Gragan Prime have to say, Commander?"

"He wished to thank you for your assistance and to inform you that custodianship has been awarded to the Delhari."

Janeway considered the news for a moment before asking, "What was Verkold's reaction?"

"The Carn vessel broke orbit several minutes ago, Captain."

"I see. Well, let's congratulate the victors. Audio only, Commander."

"Yes, Captain. Patching a channel through now."

Kathryn leaned back against the head of the bed. With her eyes she motioned for Seven to join her. Instead, the blonde woman spread the full length of her body along Kathryn's smaller form: her head resting on her captain's chest, long arms encircling the curve of her waist.

A slight beep heralded the change in comm frequencies and Imojan's familiar voice was clear above the rustle of bed sheets. "Captain Janeway, we would like to offer both our thanks and our apologies for our initial behaviour," she said.

"No apologies are necessary, Imojan. Congratulations to you and your people. Dragatti II is a very beautiful planet."

"That it is, Janeway. I am finding it almost impossible to believe that my people have a home." Imojan's voice broke with emotion causing her to sound far younger than her apparent years. "We will not forget your help in these negotiations."

Looking down at the mass of fine blonde hair that lay across her chest Janeway made a decision. "Voyager will be moving on now that this matter has been settled. Before we leave, I would like to ask one favour of you...."

*

Small birds chattered at the sun as it slowly climbed above the hills. A light breeze moved through the trees above, scattering the light across the river and forest-floor. Kathryn and Seven sat side-by-side against a fallen log; just as they had one night of their shore leave, so long ago.

"I am glad we came back." Janeway spoke for the first time since the sun had made itself visible.

"This is where we were sitting the first time we kissed," Seven noted shyly.

"I know." Kathryn smiled, "Why do you think I chose this spot to come back to?"

Seven kissed her once again, her wide eyes twinkling, before snuggling closer to the small woman she held tight in her arms. Taking a deep breath she stared, unseeing, at the silver-gilded water.

The steady breathing and gradual relaxing of the normally taut body made Janeway suspect that sleep was not far away. Placing a kiss on the top of Seven's head, she spoke. "You need to regenerate, love."

Burrowing into the warmth of Kathryn's body, an inquisitive hand slipping under her loose shirt, Seven answered in a sleepy voice, "I need this more."

the end.
December 2000