Disclaimer: No harm, no infringement intended. Just using some of the characters.

Book 4 - Reprisal

by Dee Price


It had been a few months since the scandal erupted at Starfleet. During that time Admiral Dodge, along with Captain Raymond, his chief Legal Aide, Admiral's Spencer, Ross and Paris and a close trusted circle of lawyers, including Captain Brad Jordan and Lt. Jason Armstrong, had worked long and hard to restore Starfleet to it's former position. Admiral Dodge had also been named interim Chief Executive Officer of all Starfleet operations and it was felt by all that he would be nominated for that position once all positions were filled and Starfleet back to full staff.

Lt Sutton, who had aided Captain Raymond in the protection of Admiral Paris as well as in the helping protect Kathryn and Chakotay, was promoted to Captain and given his own department of Security to oversee. During this time he helped discover even more of the culprits of that subversive element that had been trying to bring Starfleet down and into a 'dark side'. Ensigns Nicolas, Collison and Scott, who had also helped in the protection of Admiral Paris were given letters of Commendation and after 6 months promoted to Lt.

Trials seemed to be going on day and night as the criminals were found and put through the legal system of trial and sentences. Ensign Dixon, who had been instrumental in the discovery of Admiral Branson's order to kill Janeway, was appointed Chief Receptionist in Admiral Dodge's office and after three months given a promotion to Lt.

The process of replacing so many was long and arduous. Both Kathryn and Chakotay had helped constantly with the review of personnel during the first hectic three months. Admiral Dodge valued their participation, as with both not knowing many in Starfleet due to their seven-year absence while lost in the Delta Quadrant, their opinions, review and recommendations of personnel were both forthright and honest.

Once the process was well along Kathryn and Chakotay had taken an occasional vacation, first visiting Chakotay's cousin in Ohio and then spending time with Kathryn's sister Phoebe. Following three more weeks on the Review Committee they had visited Tuvok and his wife T'Pel on Vulcan for three days and then decided their next vacation would be a visit to Dorvan V, Chakotay's home planet. A little over a month later, Admiral Dodge decided everyone needed a break, and Chakotay and Kathryn left soon after and spent three weeks on Dorvan, with Chakotay searching out any remaining friends.

During this time they visited where Chakotay's old village had stood. Both stood silently, observing the area.

"It's very peaceful-looking now Chakotay, but they haven't rebuilt the village."

"No, they wanted to keep it as a memorial to the horrible atrocity the Cardassians committed here. It's a little overgrown with vegetation now but my home was right over there," he said pointing in a specific direction.

"Are all the villagers buried near here?" asked Kathryn.

"No, it is the custom of my people to be placed on a pyre and be cremated. Their ashes, and the ashes of my parents are now spread all over this area," he said and then closed his eyes and was quiet for quite a period of time.

Kathryn watched him, not knowing if he was in a vision quest without his Akoonah or just remembering. Finally he opened his eyes and looked at her.

"I was just apologizing to my parents for not visiting sooner, but they understood. My father also said I had made a 'wise choice in the woman that stands with you'," he said with a smile. "I had to agree wholeheartedly."

Kathryn smiled. "You talked to them just now?"

"Not in words exactly. I just felt their presence and thoughts," he said with a soft smile as he looked around. Slowly he started to walk forward. Kathryn hesitated.

"Aren't you afraid you will violate the sanctity of this place, sweetheart? Won't we be stepping on their ashes?"

Chakotay shook his head. "It's all right. It's like the Earth cemeteries in a way. I can spot where the funeral pyres were, so just stay close to me. I just want to walk among my people for a little while. Besides it's just the ashes of their shells. Their spirits are roaming free and I feel them welcoming us."

During their time here, Chakotay looked at several cabins in the area and finally selecting one, told Kathryn this would be their 'vacation' home He made several repairs and some remodeling in one period of three days and said the rest would be done over time. Kathryn felt the cabin was in a beautiful area and the cabin itself, very homey and comfortable. She especially loved that a creek drifted by at the rear and the sound of the rippling water at night gave her a sense of peace.

At the end of three weeks they returned to Earth, vowing to return to Dorvan sometime soon, and once again plunged into the work on the Review Committee. Before they realized it a full year had gone by since the upheaval, and yet there was still work to do.

By Admiral Dodge's order, Kathryn and Chakotay always had the weekend to themselves, although some of the staff never rested. The work was meticulous, and thus mentally tiring, pouring over personnel files and all the review that went on for a possible nomination. At last Saturday arrived, and they decided they needed an outdoor outing and headed for a nearby park.

It was a beautiful summer day, with a slight breeze but nary a cloud in sight. They slowly strolled hand in hand thoroughly enjoying the park. It reverberated with the cries of children at play and Kathryn smiled as she watched the ducks on the pond. Mama duck was paddling lazily around, while her babies paddled furiously with their little feet to keep up.

Kathryn smiled as she watched them and then her mind drifted to their visit to Dorvan V. Suddenly her reverie was broken when she realized Chakotay was talking to her.

"Kathryn? Are you okay? You haven't answered me."

She smiled. "I was just remembering our trip to Dorvan, honey," she said as she looked up at him.

That look caused her to stub her toe and she pitched forward slightly before Chakotay, still holding her hand, tightened his grasp, and grabbing her with his free hand, helped her regain her balance. However in that moment the familiar whine of a phaser was not only heard but felt by Kathryn as its heat passed close to her ear.

"Kathryn! Are you okay?" asked Chakotay as he saw her rubbing at her ear.

"I'm fine but what the hell was that phaser?" she said as they both turned and looked behind them.

A man in a Security guard uniform with Lt's pips, was running at them and they momentarily reacted in a defensive mode

"Oh my God!" he called out. "I'm so sorry! Are you alright?" he asked.

"I'm fine Lt., but who were you shooting at?" said Kathryn.

"It was an accident. I had pulled my Phaser out because I thought I recognized a criminal we were after and someone jostled me, causing me to inadvertently pull the trigger. I am so sorry. Oh my God," he moaned. "Are you sure you are alright, Captain?"

Janeway's eyes narrowed immediately. She was not wearing a uniform so how did he know she was a former Captain?

"You know me Lt?"

"Everyone knows you ma'am," he said with a smile but also a flushing of his cheeks. "Your face has been prominent in the news for about 8 years."

Kathryn smiled. "Yes, I guess it has. Well Lt. I suggest you carry that weapon in the 'off' position if someone just jostling you makes you pull that trigger."

"Yes ma'am," he said as he looked at it. "I apologize again and I'm certainly glad I didn't hit you Captain." He then turned and started running up an embankment.

Chakotay stared after him for a long time, causing Kathryn to frown.

"What is it? Why are you watching him?"

"Did you notice he wasn't wearing any identification patch?"

"No, I'm afraid I was too startled to almost have become a casualty by accident. He wasn't was he?" she said as she reflected back.

"No. I don't like what happened. I think we should report this."

"Honey he is required to report. I'm sure he will write it up when he gets back to Headquarters."

Chakotay smiled and leaning down kissed her ear. "I guess you're right. So what now? Are you hungry or should we just keep enjoying the sunshine?"

"Let's do both," said Kathryn with a smile.

Chakotay chortled. "Leave it to Captain Janeway to cover all angles."

* * * *

Two nights later, after they had finished their dinner, they retired to the front room to relax and read. Chakotay had gone through a strenuous physical therapy session and he felt a little weak.

Five minutes after sitting down there was a loud explosion of breaking glass as their front window disintegrated into millions of flying shards. Chakotay threw himself at Kathryn and as they crashed to the floor the glass rained down on them. Finally the last tinkle of dropping glass was heard and slowly Chakotay sat up, the glass falling off him as he did so.

He slowly crept toward the window, after cautioning Kathryn to stay down. Seeing nothing he stood and looked around. In front of the sofa sat a large rock and Kathryn, now sitting on the floor, was staring down at it.

"Is this what did it?" she asked.

"Looks like it. Is there a note or writing on it?" he asked as he moved cautiously through the glass.

"I don't see anything, honey. Who would do something like this?" she asked with an incredulous look on her face.

Chakotay moved to the door and opened it to look around. Just then he noticed the neighbor across the street coming out of his house.

"Chakotay!" he called. "Are you and the Mrs. all right?"

"We're fine, Simon. Did you see who did this?"

He nodded. "I was just getting ready for bed. I retire early you know as I'm old, and I saw this shuttle pull up in front of your place, the hatch opened and the next thing I knew your front window was breaking into a million pieces! What broke it anyway?"

"A large rock apparently. You didn't see who was in the shuttle?"

"Nah. It was dark and if anyone stepped out it was on the side away from me and naturally I couldn't see that," he said as he yawned.

"Well thanks Simon. If you see anything suspicious let me know, okay?"

"I surely will Chakotay. Glad you and the little lady didn't get hurt," and he turned and shuffled off home.

Chakotay smiled. Simon was the neighborhood snoop and if anything happened he would see or know about it soon enough. He always says he goes to bed early but it was pretty well known he just turns the lights out and sits in front of the window in his chair and watches what is going on. Chakotay stood and watched Simon, making sure he was back in his house before turning to go back inside. Kathryn was standing in the doorway.

"Did he see anything, sweetheart?"

"Not really. He just saw a shuttle stop and then the window breaking."

"He didn't get the shuttle number?"

"No and if it were visible Simon would have seen it," he said with a smile.

"Maybe it was just some ornery kids," she said with a disgusted look. "Well we have to call Starfleet and get this window repaired. We obviously can't go to bed with it wide open like that."

Chakotay wrapped his arms around her and said, "I'm just glad you weren't hurt."

As she slipped her arms around his neck she felt something wet and when she looked at her hand saw it was covered with blood. She immediately turned him around and saw blood streaming from some cuts on the back of his neck.

"You're injured! Let's get that cleaned off and see how deep they are."

After cleaning his neck and discovering the cuts were not major, she applied an anti-infection hypo and then used the Dermal Regenerator to heal the injuries.

"You better call Starfleet, honey, and report this while I clean off the sofa," he said as they moved back into the front room.

Not only did a Starfleet Maintenance crew arrive within thirty minutes, but also a squad from Captain Sutton's Security force, headed by Lt. Scott, arrived to take a report of the incident. After all, Starfleet couldn't let two of its most illustrious people not be properly taken care of.

The window was completely replaced within two hours and the front room meticulously cleaned as well, after Security had examined everything. With all that done, Kathryn and Chakotay headed to bed. However, Chakotay spent a restless night even though their security alarm was on. Something just didn't seem right to him and he made the decision to be more alert here on in.

* * * *

The following morning at 0900 sharp Kathryn and Chakotay walked into Room 247 and were warmly greeted by Admiral Dodge and Captain Raymond. Admirals Spencer, Paris and Ross were already on hand and greeted them as they sat. This was another Review meeting to determine more appointments, specifically some minor department heads, and Admiral Dodge had kept both Kathryn and Chakotay apprised of all the nominations. Although these appointments seemed minor it was important to get the right people and he was grateful they were able to attend.

After three hours of consideration, debate and votes, the needed appointments were made. As the Admirals filed out Dan Raymond came up to Kathryn and Chakotay for a few personal words. During this conversation Kathryn happened to mention the phaser and window incidents. Chakotay commented that they concerned him.

Dan's eyes immediately narrowed. "Are you sure they were accidents, Kathryn?" he asked.

"Why yes I do, don't you?"

"I'm not sure and as Chakotay, I feel concern. I'm sure we would have been apprised of these incidents. You say both were reported?"

"Well the window certainly was. I know that Security personnel are required to make reports and this was a squad sent by Captain Sutton," said Kathryn.

Dan nodded. "That Security officer who shot in your direction . . . what was his name?"

A blank look flitted across Kathryn's face," I don't know, I didn't think to get it," she replied.

Dan looked at her with shock. "You didn't get it? That's not like you, Kathryn."

"Actually Dan," interjected Chakotay," he didn't have an identification tag on, that's why it concerns me."

Dan stared at Chakotay a moment and suddenly said, "Let's go to my office and check this out," he said and turned for the door.

"Honestly you two," said Kathryn. "I think you are making a mountain out of a mole hill," but she was pushed along by Chakotay's pressure on her back.

"We'll just make sure, okay?" said Dan with a grin and then looked at Chakotay and rolled his eyes and asked, "Is she always this stubborn?"

Chakotay chuckled but as he opened his mouth to respond Kathryn said quite sharply, "Not a word my dear husband. Not one word!" This caused both Dan and Chakotay to burst out laughing.

As they entered the Legal Affairs office Dan led them down a long corridor where they finally entered an office. He nodded for them to take a seat and turned on his console.

"They certainly have you buried back here," mused Kathryn.

Dan smiled. "Well remember until all this subversive scandal I was pretty much incognito to most everyone except a few Admirals. "What date was the phaser incident?" he asked as he tapped at his controls.

Chakotay filled him in and after entering the information Dan sat and waited. Within seconds all reported incidents came up on the screen for the day in question. Dan stared at it and finally with an exasperated sigh, looked up. "There is no report of Captain Janeway nearly being hit with a phaser, nor an accidental phaser discharge at that park."

Both Kathryn and Chakotay looked at him. In an incredulous tone Kathryn said, "But Security Personnel are required to make reports are they not?"

Dan leaned back and after glancing at Chakotay looked at Kathryn and said, "Yes, if they are Starfleet."

"If they are Starfleet? What are you implying Dan?" asked Kathryn.

"What did this gentleman look like," asked Dan while avoiding her question.

"Well he was a Lt., about 6'2" tall, brown hair and eyes, thin but well built and Caucasian. I guess that would best describe him."

Dan smiled. "Kathryn you just described about half of Starfleet! Can't you be more specific? Did he have any scars or anything?"

"Without undressing him, no there wasn't anything I could see on his face or neck," she replied rather sarcastically.

Dan grinned and held up both hands, palms toward her. "Easy, Captain, I'm just doing my job."

Kathryn blushed. "I'm sorry, but what are you thinking Dan?"

"If you saw him again would you recognize him?" he asked, again not answering her question.

"I certainly would, and I think Chakotay would too, because he's the one that noticed he didn't have an Id badge on."

Dan turned back to his computer and after tapping a few moments, stood. "Okay I have the pictures of all Security Personnel up. There are over 500 I realize, but sit here and find him for me," he said as he moved away from his desk. "Take your time."

Both Kathryn and Chakotay moved behind his desk and started scrolling the pictures. They took their time and finally had looked at all of them. Kathryn looked up at Chakotay and muttered, "We must have missed him," and started the search a second time. This effort also failed to reveal the man.

"Then that confirms my feelings," said Dan with a big sigh. "He's not Starfleet, or at least not Security and just dressed as one, and the incident might not have been so accidental."

"Are you saying he was trying to kill me?" asked Kathryn in a shocked tone.

"That or give you a good scare. Look at it Kathryn. You have a Phaser fire and it nearly hit you and then your front window is broken by a large rock. Neither of you are injured so it appears someone is trying to give you some sort of message," he said as he moved back behind his desk and Kathryn and Chakotay stepped aside.

He brought up the window incident and nodded. "The report is all right here from last night so, as I would suspect coming from Captain Sutton's office and it was Lt Scott doing the reporting, this was legitimate, but the one who fired at you obviously isn't."

"Maybe he was in disguise," said Kathryn, still finding it hard to believe she was some sort of target.

"Kathryn look at the facts," said Chakotay, finally entering into the conversation. "You get home, you face a court martial and then file a grievance. That grievance angers Admiral Branson and his cohorts and Admiral Weeks is killed and almost Admiral Paris. We have to go into hiding but they find us and fully intended on killing us if Dan hadn't gotten there in time! You obviously have some people very angry at you! Even after a year it's a fact not all the culprits have been caught. Many of them simply blended back into the Starfleet woodwork, so to speak, so it seems quite logical to me what Dan is saying."

"Well said Chakotay," said Dan. "That's the summation I would have given, Kathryn. To put it quite bluntly, and I apologize for the language, but someone is quite pissed at you."

Kathryn smiled at the word and then rubbed at her forehead while she sat quietly and thought everything over. Finally she looked up.

"Well they apparently are just trying to scare me. That rock last night only broke a window and that so called Lt could have very easily shot me, as we were wide open and no one anywhere near us."

"Not necessarily," said Dan as he raised one finger. "Didn't you say you stumbled and yet felt the phaser heat on your ear?"

"Well yes, but maybe I stumbled into the path of the phaser," she countered.

Dan pursed his lips. "You always want to offer a counter answer," he said in an almost sarcastic tone. "Possibly it was an accident, but in my personal opinion it wasn't, so I think we are going to have to set up some protection for you for a few days while we look into this."

"No, absolutely not!" said Kathryn vehemently.

"Kathryn, be reasonable," said Chakotay.

"No sweetheart. Look at all the dangers we faced in the Delta Quadrant! We didn't hide!"

Chakotay rubbed his forehead and looked at Dan as he replied, "Kathryn never even hid from the Borg - Captain Janeway never backs away."

Kathryn missed the jibe as she looked at Dan. "See, even Chakotay says I don't need protection."

"I didn't say that Kathryn!" he protested.

"Maybe not but it's what you meant," she replied with a smirk. "Didn't you?"

Chakotay heaved a sigh and sat down in the chair opposite Dan. "See what I have put up with for seven years?"

Dan laughed. "You are a braver man than I Commander."

"No, I just love this woman so very much," he said as he looked at her. Kathryn immediately smiled and bent down to give him a quick kiss.

"So what are you going to do Captain Raymond?" asked Kathryn as she and Chakotay held hands.

"I obviously can't win with you, nor I doubt can anyone else," he said with a smirk. "Let me think on how we will handle this."

Just then there was a rapid and hard knocking on the door and Dan rose to answer it. Upon opening the door he smiled and said, "Lt Armstrong, our all American lawyer!"

"Hi Dan. Have you heard . . . oh," he said stopping as he saw Kathryn and Chakotay. "Thank God you are here!"

Kathryn rose. "What do you mean, Jason?"

He nervously glanced at Dan a second and then looking at Kathryn said, "A report just came in. Some one set fire to your house and . . ."

Dan shot out of his chair and raced by Jason and into the corridor without a word. Kathryn and Chakotay were right on his heels.

"I hope everything is all right. I'm just glad you weren't home!" Jason yelled after them.

Kathryn, without saying anything raised her hand and motioned for him to come and with a big smile he ran to catch up with them.

Later as Kathryn and Chakotay moved around their house she sighed. "Well I guess it could have been worse. The fire team did a marvelous job of saving the house. All that is destroyed is the Shuttle Port, the bathroom and part of our office."

"Plus," added Chakotay as he surveyed the front room, water has destroyed the rug and some of the furniture in here. I'm just glad we weren't home sweetheart," he said as he put his arms around her.

Just then Dan and Jason walked in. "Well the Chief said it was started by some sort of Incendiary device with a timer that was placed against the shuttle port. Your neighbor across the street saw the flames and called the Fire Department."

"Good old Simon," said Kathryn

"Kathryn," said Dan and waited for her to look at him. He placed his hands on his hips and in a very exasperated, yet concerned voice, asked "Do you believe me now?"

She sighed. "Yes, I do Dan. But I still don't fully comprehend the why as yet, despite your explanation; I don't feel I am any threat to them."

"On the contrary Kathryn," said Jason. "You are helping on the nominations and appointments and it's possible you have eliminated some of them from advancement, not knowing their affiliation with Branson of course, but until we catch them we'll never know."

"I just hope you aren't appointed to defend any of them when they are caught," she responded with a smile.

Jason shook his head. "No ma'am. I don't want any part of being the defense, nor would Brad. We will both be prosecutors on this."

"It appears to me," mused Dan, "That these are merely warnings or tactics to frighten you. As you said the phaser shot could have taken you down, the rock wouldn't kill you, only injure if you were directly hit and now this fire is set after you have left. There have been no notes or threats. It's as if they know exactly what you are doing and where you are. I know you are going to object, but I'm going to contact Captain Sutton at Security and have him pick two of his best men to 'protect you', covertly that is."

Kathryn looked at him and opened her mouth to protest only to have Chakotay place a firm hand over her lips.

"Do it, Dan," he said in a firm tone and then looked at Kathryn. She looked at him and seeing the fierce determination in his eyes knew better than to continue her protest and merely nodded her head in acquiescence. He slowly took his hand away, ready to replace it if she started to protest. When she remained silent, he smiled and bending his head down, kissed her lightly. "Thank you sweetheart," he said softly.

Dan smiled at this scene and then said. "I am worried about something else, however."

"Now what?" asked Kathryn with a smirk.

"Well so far they have been scare tactics, nothing overtly dangerous to you personally, but there is a progression and people who do this type of thing tend to advance their misdeeds until there is injury or death." He sighed. "However until there is a written note, or worse," he said as he glanced at Chakotay, "We are rather helpless."

"Doesn't the Incendiary have fingerprints or DNA substance on it?" asked Chakotay.'

"No, that's already been checked by the Security guard as it's a required procedure for each fire response," replied Dan. He looked around. "Well you can stay at my cabin until all this is cleaned up."

"No, we will not put your cabin at risk Dan," said Kathryn adamantly. "We'll get an apartment for a few days. It shouldn't take too long to get this repaired."

He grinned. "Now just why did I know you would answer in that vein. Okay. My apartment in town is a Security complex and I know they have some vacancies. Let me check and I'll get back to you within an hour." Both Kathryn and Chakotay nodded their thanks and then walked to their office, with their shoes making a sucking noise with each step on the soggy carpet.

"Oh honey, just look at this mess," moaned Kathryn.

"Looks like everything on that back wall is destroyed, but our files here seem all right," he said as he looked at the opposite wall.

She stopped and looked around and shook her head. "Well, if the Delta Quadrant didn't defeat us a little fire certainly won't!" she said angrily.

Chakotay chuckled and walking to her wrapped his arms around her. "My feisty, stubborn, won't be defeated wife," he murmured as he nuzzled his face in her hair.

Kathryn tightened her arms around him and said, "You call me stubborn one more time and I just might have to 'cold cock' you." This remark made Chakotay throw his head back and roar with laughter as he recalled his saying that to Captain Brad Jordan during the trial. Soon Kathryn was joining him in laughter.

Jason, still wandering around with the Security guard stopped and listened to their laughter and grinned. They loved each other so much a disaster like this and attempts on their lives just seemed to bounce off them. The Security Guard looked at him with a frown on his face.

"How can they laugh when their house was almost destroyed, sir?"

"Until you know them you wouldn't understand, but they are the most resilient people I have ever known." He then nodded to the Guard. "Let's complete this investigation and make sure there isn't some clue that's been missed."

A few moments later Dan walked back inside the house and headed for the voices of Jason and the Security Guard.

"Anything Lt?" he asked as he saw them.

"No sir," responded Jason. "It looks just like the Fire Chief said - it all started at the Shuttle Port."

Dan nodded. "Which means it was another scare tactic and they either knew they weren't home or could get out in time."

Jason nodded his head and then with a very concerned expression, said, "We can't let anything happen to them Captain."

"Agreed" was all Dan replied as he turned and started to look for Kathryn and Chakotay. Jason and the Security guard followed.

"Ah here you are," said Dan as he saw them sifting through the ruins of the workroom. "I made a call from my Shuttle and there is an apartment open in my complex. I explained it would only be temporary and when he agreed I reserved it for you."

Kathryn smiled. "Our knight in shining armor," and moving to him kissed him lightly on the cheek.

Chakotay placed his hands on his hips. "Are you going to make me jealous again Kathryn?"

Dan blushed and said, "I'm out of here before I see a marital fight," and then with a wink at Kathryn, followed by a loud laugh, left the room.

* * * *

Starfleet arranged for repairs to begin almost immediately, with a special dispensation from Admiral Dodge, who was furious this was happening. He ordered Captain Sutton to gather a special squad of his Security team to covertly watch the house as well as Kathryn and Chakotay.

The repairs took two weeks and Kathryn defiantly moved back in the minute it was all finished.

"They are not going to scare us off, sweetheart," she said with anger in her tone.

"I agree, but I just don't want you to be injured in any way," he said as he made sure the door was locked, and then turning, pulled her close. "I'm sure Starfleet will find them eventually. It's obvious they've missed some in their investigation, but I'm sure it will be okay soon."

As she nestled her head on his chest she replied, "I am just not going to run scared."

Chakotay laughed. "I've never seen the day when Captain Janeway ran from anyone. Not even the Borg could scare you off."

She chuckled. "When I look back at those times I sometimes wonder if I had any sense at all. In hindsight, we were lucky and I know it."

Chakotay grinned. "Just remember you said that, not me." He looked around the room and then said, "Well let's get to work on that workroom. Put things back and maybe arrange it a bit more, now that it's empty,' said Chakotay.

They spent the rest of the day on this work and retired late in the evening. Had they looked outside, and although they might not have seen them, Captain Sutton and five of his men began their vigil.

Chakotay continued his physical therapy, with Kathryn always at his side. This day however, she had some important work to do for Admiral Dodge and despite Chakotay's objections, elected to stay home, the first time she ever did that.

"Honey I don't mind you not going with me, but I don't like it that you are here alone after what has happened," said Chakotay. "Can we get someone to come stay with you?"

"Absolutely not, Chakotay!" she fired back. "Besides, it's been over two weeks since the fire and there haven't been any more incidents. I'll be fine."

"Promise me you will keep the doors locked."

"Chakotay . . ."

"Promise me Kathryn!" he said quite loudly.

Seeing the combination of fear and yet concern tinged with love in his eyes, she relented and promised. When he left he stood outside the shuttle port door until he heard the security being set and with a final word of "Now don't open this door or the front or back door for anyone I'll be back in two hours."

"I'll be fine sweetheart," came her voice from the other side of the door. "I miss you already."

He chuckled. "I love you. See you soon," and got into the shuttle, closed the hatch, and once the port door opened, left.

A little over two hours later Chakotay pulled into the shuttle port and closed its door before opening the shuttle. He used his security code to open the house door and stepped into the hallway.

"Honey, I'm back. Did you miss me?"

Silence.

"Kathryn?" he said as he walked toward the front room. There still wasn't a reply and he frowned as he entered the room and then stopped in complete shock. The room was a shambles, with furniture overturned, vases broken and everything in disarray.

"Kathryn!" he yelled as he turned and ran for the kitchen. It was empty but the table and chairs were scattered about the room. Then he saw it . . . the back door was open! In a panic he raced around the house to each room, frantically calling her name. At last he knew for sure she wasn't here and ran to the console, almost jamming his finger through the Emergency button that went directly to Captain Sutton.

Dan, Jason and Brad sat in Dan's office looking over the list of the latest replacements. Neither Jason nor Brad had found anything remiss in their investigation so a letter was being formed to tell them of their appointment. Dan's console beeped and he absently tapped it and said, "Yes," as he continued to look at the Padd.

"Captain Raymond," came the excited voice of Captain Sutton. "Commander Chakotay just called and they've taken Captain Janeway!"

"What!" exploded Dan as he turned and faced the console.

"Commander Chakotay says when he got home Captain Janeway was gone and the house was a shambles and . . ."

"On my way!" yelled Dan as he shot out of his chair and raced out of the room. Without hesitation, Brad and Jason followed.

People hearing the thump of rapid footsteps automatically stepped against the wall and the three raced past. Down the corridor they flew, took a turn without barely slowing down and continued on a dead run. Dan ran easily and smoothly but Jason and Brad were beginning to fall slightly behind. Dan reached a Turbo Lift and punched at the button, waited a frantic second, waved his hand in disgust and headed for the stairwell.

Just as Brad and Jason got there the Lift doors opened so Jason pushed open the stairwell door and yelled, "The lift is here. Where are you going?"

"Security!"

Jason turned back and jumped into the lift as Brad punched the security level. As the lift stopped and they stepped out, Dan raced past.

"Geez," said Jason. "He must have been taking those steps ten at a time," and they started running after him.

As Dan reached the security office he slid to a partial stop, grabbed the doorframe and pulling himself inside, ran for Sutton's office.

"Give me the report, Captain!" he barked as he ran in. Sutton immediately handed him a Padd and as he perused the information Brad and Jason ran in.

Dan sat down at the console as Sutton said, "I've dispatched my five best men over to the Commander's house, sir." Dan didn't reply, just punched in Chakotay's number

A very distraught countenance of Chakotay appeared. "Dan, Kathryn is missing! They have her!" he said in a weak voice.

"Are you sure, Chakotay? Was there a note?"

Chakotay nodded. "I found it after I called Captain Sutton."

"We'll be there in a few minutes, so hold onto it. Sutton has dispatched five men to your place and they are . . ." and he turned and looked at Sutton.

"It's Lt's Nicolas and Collison, and Ensign's Richards and Keppler. Lt Scott is in charge of the team.

Dan repeated the names to Chakotay and then leaped from the chair without cutting the communication. Brad and Jason followed and Captain Sutton looked at Chakotay a moment and his heart broke for him.

"Captain Raymond will be there shortly sir. We'll find her - I swear we will find her."

Chakotay merely nodded his head and moved his hand slowly to the console and everything went black.

Within a very short time Dan landed his shuttle outside Kathryn and Chakotay's home and he quickly moved inside. He stopped when he saw Chakotay sitting on a chair, his elbows on his knees and his face buried in his hands.

"Chakotay?" he said softly. As he moved to him he nodded to Lt Scott and said, "Continue your investigation Lt. I'll talk to the Commander."

Chakotay raised his head and tears were in his eyes. "They have Kathryn, Dan," he said in a barely audible voice. "It's my fault. I should have never left her alone."

Dan squeezed his hand and asked for the note. Chakotay nodded to the Padd on the table in front of him.

"Has it been checked by the Security force?"

"Not yet, I wouldn't let anyone else see it."

"Are you the only one who handled it?"

Chakotay merely nodded and Dan called out to Lt Scott who ran into the room. "Sir?"

"Check this Padd for fingerprints and a DNA scan. If I'm right all we are going to find is Chakotay. They wouldn't be so stupid to handle it without gloves."

Scott nodded and ran his TriCorder over the Padd. Looking up he nodded his head. "All that registers is the Commander, sir."

Dan nodded and picked up the Padd and punched Read. The message was as follows: "Commander Chakotay. We have your beloved Kathryn and she is going to die a very slow and painful death for her turning in Admiral Branson. Don't even try to find her because you won't. Revenge is ours and the next time you see her she will be on your doorstep - dead." It was unsigned.

Dan put the Padd down and looked up. "Tell me all about this morning Chakotay. Why was Kathryn left alone?"

"I had a physical therapy session and for the first time Kathryn didn't want to go with me," he moaned, still in a self-blame tone.

"Why?"

"She said she wanted to finish a report to Admiral Dodge so we could leave this weekend and go back to Dorvan V for a few days." Dan winced that she had remained home to do that work.

"I made her promise she wouldn't open the door for anyone and when I went out the shuttle port door I heard her key the code and she again promised she would never open the door until I got back." He stopped and moaned in a wail-like tone. "Oh God . . . Kathryn!" He looked at Dan and said, "I failed her Dan. I failed to protect her!"

Just then Lt Scott entered the room and Dan nodded to him. "Anything?"

"No sir. We have searched thoroughly and there is no forced entry, although the back door has been opened."

"Could the security have been overridden?"

"No sir, we ran a scan on that also and only the Captain and Commander's DNA show." He looked around at the upheaval in the room and added, "Whoever gained access . . . well - she put up a hell of a fight, sir."

Dan looked back at the distraught Chakotay, who made no effort to wipe away the tears that ran down his cheeks. "Could Kathryn have opened the door for a familiar voice?"

"No she promised she wouldn't open it for anyone. She would just tell them to come back."

"Damn it, Chakotay. Somebody got her to open the door!" growled Dan.

"No! Kathryn promised and she wouldn't go back on her promise to me!" he shot back vehemently.

Dan grabbed Chakotay by both shoulders and almost shook him. "Think man, think! Is there a reason, any reason at all that would cause her to open the door?"

"No! I told you she would never . . ." Suddenly he stopped and his face blanched.

"What?" asked Dan.

"After working for an extended time she used to like to go to the back door and stand and inhale the fresh air . . . oh Great Spirits, that's when they got her!"

"That has to be it!" exclaimed Dan. "They have watched this house and learned her habits and were there waiting for her when they saw she didn't leave with you!"

Chakotay just moaned Kathryn's name and placed his hands over his face. His shoulders shuddered and Dan knew he was crying. The room and house were very quiet except for the occasional sob of Chakotay and Dan looked around at the front room. Kathryn indeed had put up a tremendous fight to stave off whoever the kidnappers were. He then noticed the security squad standing to one side and walked to them.

"Have you found anything at all?"

"No sir. Despite the struggle, we haven't found a trace of anything except the Captain and Commander plus a few of their friends."

"Such as?"

Scott looked down at his Padd. "Paris, Torres, Tuvok and Kim are the other DNA residue we have found.

Dan sighed and shook his head. No clues . . . so where do they begin in their search for Kathryn?

Jason and Brad entered the room. "We did a recon of our own outside and we don't even see any footprints Captain. They were extremely careful and I must admit, proficient."

Dan walked back to Chakotay. "Come with me Chakotay. I want you to make a report in my office and then have a doctor give you an injection for shock."

"No, I'm fine," he started to protest.

"Look Chakotay, we need a sharp mind and right now you are only in a self-blame attitude! I need you to be able to think clearly, so come with me and don't make me make that an order!"

Chakotay slowly stood as he nodded his head. Dan looked at Lt Scott as he started to leave. "Secure the premises Lt." and the group walked out.

Before they reached the shuttle Chakotay's head came up and he looked across the street. "Simon!" he said and bolted for his neighbor's house, with Dan, Brad and Jason following.

Chakotay rapped loudly on the door and shortly Simon opened it. "Chakotay! I just noticed the security around your place. Is anything wrong?"

"Kathryn has been kidnapped! Did you see anything?"

"Oh my word, no! Kidnapped? That's terrible! Well let me see," and he stood and thought for a while. So long in fact Dan was about to say something when Simon looked up.

"Yes, I remember hearing a noise and got up and looked out the window but the neighborhood was quiet. No people walking or any shuttles around."

"When was the noise Simon?" asked Chakotay.

"Well, " and again he was quiet as he thought about it. "Okay, it was one hour and forty minutes ago."

Chakotay thought that out and then looked at Dan. "That's about right. That would be about an hour after I left, and once an hour Kathryn got up to get some fresh air."

"Okay, and the noise was probably some of that furniture being tipped over," said Dan. "Well at least we have a time period now."

Chakotay looked back at Simon. "Did you hear yells or voices or screams or anything Simon?"

"No I'm sorry Chakotay, just that one thump. Kathryn kidnapped? That is just horrible!"

Dan suddenly tapped his Comm badge. "Lt Scott?"

"Yes sir?" came the disembodied voice.

"Have your men checked the back street and questioned all the neighbors there?"

"I just sent Nicolas and Collison to do that sir."

"Good work. Report to me the minute they get back. We are heading into Headquarters now. Raymond out." He turned to Simon. "Thank you sir. If you see or think of anything else please contact Headquarters and ask for Captain Raymond in Legal Affairs." Simon nodded and Dan could see him memorizing the name and office.

Once back in his office Dan hailed Captain Sutton and asked him to form a special task force for this investigation.

Sutton immediately said he had already been formulating a group of names and "if it is all right, sir, I would like to be charge."

Dan grinned. Sutton was a good man. In fact no better person could be in charge in his opinion. "You're it Captain and you report to me on everything, understood?"

"Yes sir," was the immediate response and Dan could detect a note of pride as well as a smile in Sutton's voice.

He then looked at Brad and Jason. "You two will be part of Sutton's team and help sift any information that comes in, although not part of the actual investigation."

"Why not Dan," complained Jason. "We are investigators. Even though we are lawyers, look at all the investigations we do for our clients!"

"I know I know," responded Dan, "But I want to keep the investigation consolidated and not have a lot of 'arms' doing something and not informing anyone else."

"Then we can report to Captain Sutton each morning," continued Jason in pleading his case, "and inform him what we want to do if he doesn't have anything specific for us,"

"And then report directly to him each evening and he will send all information to you," interjected Brad.

"Yes sir, and we won't hinder or get in the way," said Jason. "Please Captain. Kathryn is our friend. We just can't let anything happen to her!"

Dan started to shake his head. He wanted to be part of the team also, but 'too many cooks spoil the broth' philosophy ran through his mind. He looked at the two pair of earnest eyes looking back at him and finally nodded his head. Before they could smile he held up his index finger.

"You will work from this office. We will, each morning, go over what has been done, what yet has to be done, confer with Captain Sutton on his feelings or plans in the investigation and then inform him of any specific assignment I am having you two do. That way he knows immediately what is happening and if his gut reaction tells me no, then we will not do it. Clear?"

"Yes sir," chorused Brad and Jason and then they turned to one another and with large smiles smacked the hand of the other. Dan, watching, just shook his head.

Just then his console beeped and after initiating it he saw the Doctor. "How is Commander Chakotay?"

"He is in deep remorse, bordering on depression. He was so adamant he didn't want any shots and wanted to get back to you that I'm afraid I used a little subterfuge. I had him drink a glass of water after agreeing I would let him leave."

Dan frowned. "Water? Where is the Commander now? He isn't here!"

The doctor grinned. "He currently is asleep in one of the rooms. The water, you see, had a sedative in it."

Dan roared with laughter, as did Brad and Jason. "Good work Doctor. How long will he be out?"

"Probably until tomorrow morning. I'm afraid I made it rather strong," chuckled the Doctor. "However, even as he started to collapse to the floor he looked at me and started to say 'you son of a' but that's as far as it went. He will be one unhappy camper in the morning."

Dan grinned. "Blame it on me, Doctor, and get in touch with me immediately when he wakes up. Raymond out."

* * * *

The investigation on Kathryn's disappearance continued twenty-four hours a day for the next week. The media screamed headlines of Kathryn's kidnapping and her picture was shown almost constantly. The neighbors behind Kathryn and Chakotay's house did not see any unusual shuttles, movement or strangers, leaving that a blind alley and Simon continued to keep a keen eye on the house.

Meanwhile Dan had Chakotay stay with him at his apartment, knowing the house had bitter memories at the moment. When he suggested it he fully expected Chakotay to object and was quite surprised when he agreed. However, Dan soon realized why. It was a way for Chakotay to stay near Dan and be involved in the investigation. Pretty smart, mused Dan.

Nothing at all was heard from the kidnappers and this silence at first worried Dan and then he suddenly felt comfortable with it, feeling as long as Kathryn didn't turn up dead somewhere, they hadn't done anything to her.

On the Monday starting the second week, Dan, Brad, Jason and Chakotay were having their morning briefing. Frustration was high with each of them and Chakotay was fraught with worry.

Dan himself felt not only tremendous frustration but also extreme irritation. They just didn't have a clue to work on! Brad and Jason had scoured the streets every day, asking questions of their street contacts and spreading the word to be on the lookout for any whispered gossip about Captain Janeway.

Chakotay had gone with them several times, spent time with Captain Sutton and then with Dan. He was scared he was losing his Kathryn and kept saying, "We have to find her! We have to find her. Where can she be?"

Suddenly Dan's console beeped and he glanced up at the wall chronometer before answering. It was too early for Sutton's call. Reaching out he tapped the Incoming button and saw the visage of Lt Scott. He looked very troubled.

"Captain Raymond. I just happened to think of something and I'm not sure if it's a lead or not but . . . I feel terrible."

"What is it Lt?"

"May we speak privately sir? In your office preferably."

"Get here as soon as possible Lt." replied Dan and Scott nodded his head and broke communication.

Ten minutes later he strode in, Dan nodded to him and asked Brad, Jason and Chakotay to sit at the back of the room and stay quiet. Lt Scott sat down and fidgeted with his hands.

"Well Lt?" asked Dan.

"Sir, do you remember when after the rock throwing incident you had the Commander and Captain's house put under watch?"

Dan nodded his head. "So?"

"Well," and Lt Scott looked away for a moment. Finally he looked up, swallowed and continued. "There was one day when Captain Sutton needed rest so he had myself and Ensign Phillips fill in. I was out front and Phillips was out back. It worked out okay so once a week after that Phillips and I filled in, but Captain Sutton was smart and rotated the days so there wasn't any pattern.

"The week before the kidnapping, Phillips hailed me and said he was very sick and needed to go home so I phoned into security to get a replacement. Captain Sutton was out on a call and Lt. Collison, who answered the hail, said he would send somebody out immediately. An Ensign Kieffer reported to me and I sent him out back to relieve Phillips." Scott stopped a moment and looked at Dan, who remained silent waiting to see where this was going. From Scott's tone it was important and Dan wanted to shake him and get to the punch line, but steeled himself to hear Scott out.

Finally Scott continued. "Then the following week Phillips was still sick and I had another assignment, so I asked for Kieffer to accompany Lt Nicolas as he had appeared to work out okay the previous week." Then Lt Scott's face turned gray. "Sir, that was the day Captain Janeway was kidnapped and Ensign Kieffer never reported any trouble to Nicolas! In fact Nicolas didn't know anything was wrong until I landed and told him Captain Janeway had been kidnapped!"

Dan sat straight up in his chair. "Why haven't you reported this before Lt Scott?" he said in an angry tone.

"I just never realized Kieffer hadn't told Nicolas anything and in looking over the reports late yesterday, because I just had this weird feeling, I suddenly saw that Kieffer had not only never been questioned, but hadn't turned in a report, so this morning I looked for him . . . sir, he has disappeared also. Why would they kidnap Kieffer?"

Dan frowned as his mind raced with this information. "Maybe not also kidnapped Lt," he finally said. "It could be he was in on this kidnapping and when he got the assignment the second time had time to tell his cohorts. After Captain Janeway was taken captive, he just conveniently disappeared. What do you know about Kieffer?"

"Nothing really sir. He is fairly new in Captain Sutton's division."

At that moment the Incoming Call beeped and Dan immediately slapped it. When the face of Sutton showed and before he could even say "Good morning, sir" Raymond almost shouted, "What do you know about Ensign Kiefer, Captain Sutton?"

Sutton, at first taken aback, frowned. "Ensign Kieffer? He is fairly new to the division, but he checked out. He was assigned to my Division to cover vacancies and I checked him myself, sir. Why? Is there a problem?"

Dan's mind raced – wondering who had assigned Kieffer to Security. "There very well could be Captain," said Raymond in a softer tone. "What about Ensign Phillips?"

"The same, Captain. He's a good man and has been with Security before all the Branson business. He checks out."

"Get both of them and bring them here." Sutton nodded and closed the communication.

Five minutes later Sutton called back. "I can't locate Kieffer sir, so I have dispatched two men to his home. However, Ensign Phillips is on his way to my office."

"Very well Captain. Bring him here and I feel very strongly you are not going to find Ensign Kieffer." As Sutton frowned at that statement, Dan closed the communication and leaning back, gave a very loud and long sigh.

"This might be the break we need and yet if we can't find Kieffer we are still against a dead end," he said looking at Scott. "I'm sorry I barked at you before."

Scott swallowed. "I feel terrible sir. If Kieffer is part of this then I brought him into Captain Janeway's protection."

"It's not your fault Lt. We feel we have checked everybody and yet we know some have fallen through the cracks or have deceived us. We'll see what Ensign Phillips has to say. Thank you for coming in by the way. That extra work and hunch of yours might yet be helpful."

A short time later Captain Sutton walked in with a very nervous Ensign Phillips. Dan motioned for Phillips to take the seat opposite his desk and as he sat Dan noted him swallowing and sitting ramrod straight in the chair.

"Relax Ensign, I just want to ask you a few questions."

"Yes, sir," said Phillips.

"How are you feeling now Ensign?"

"Much better sir. The doctor says I might have had a severe case of food poisoning."

Dan frowned at that feeling there was a link to that and Kieffer, and determined he would ask further questions about that later. "Do you know anything about Ensign Kieffer?"

Phillips nodded. "Yes sir, a little. We sort of hung out together."

"Explain that Ensign."

"Well sir he was the new guy in the Division and didn't know anyone and I felt sorry for him so made a point of being friendly. He was a nice guy and we went out a couple of times."

"Out where?"

"To a local pub and had some beer and a few snacks."

"And that was all . . . just a pub?"

"Well no, one night we went to a restaurant he said he wanted to go to. It was pretty nice and he said it had great food." Then Phillips frowned. "However, it was later that night I started getting sick."

"Did you inform the doctor of this restaurant?"

"Yes sir and he later told me they had checked everything about it and there wasn't anything there that would have caused my illness. Kieffer ate the same thing I did and he didn't get sick at all."

Dan stared at Phillips a moment and then asked, "Did you leave the table for any reason after the food was delivered?"

Phillips thought a moment and then nodded. "I got a call but when I went to receive it at the desk there wasn't anyone there."

"Had Kieffer left the table prior to you getting that message?"

"Yes sir. He said he had to take a . . . he had to go to the men's room."

Dan suddenly leaned back and sighed.

"What is it sir?" asked Sutton, who stood behind Phillips.

Dan rubbed his forehead before answering and then informed him of what Lt Scott had told him. "It's beginning to look like Kieffer may have put something in your food and as he had served on the lookout previously this made him the logical substitute when you got quite ill. If I'm correct he's part of the kidnapping scheme and once he was asked a second time to serve somehow managed to inform his buddies he would be on duty and that's when they kidnapped Captain Janeway."

"Oh my God!" said Sutton as he looked over at Lt Scott.

"I'm sorry Captain," said Scott. "It's my fault."

"No it's not your fault. It's mine. I was the one who cleared Kieffer for the division," said Sutton disconsolately.

"Stop blaming yourselves!" snapped Dan. "They are pretty smart people and deceived us all because he and some others have not been detected as being part of this element."

"Maybe they weren't actually part of the previous plot," said Jason who had sat quietly at the back of the room with Brad and intently listened to the interrogation.

Dan turned and looked at him. "Explain."

"Well maybe they were not involved before, but during all the investigation hoopla, with the press screaming loud headlines, as well as all the checking we were doing, somehow became supportive of what Branson and his crew were doing and decided on their own to do this."

Dan pursed his lips as Brad nodded. "That could be Captain," responded Brad. "It would explain why they weren't on any list to be double-checked."

Finally Dan nodded his head. "We'll keep that in mind," and turned back to Phillips. "Have you seen Kieffer lately?"

"No sir. He contacted me at my hospital room the first day and said he couldn't understand how I got so sick and then I haven't heard from him since. I went by his house one day and he wasn't there."

Dan looked up at Sutton as he asked Phillips, "What was the address you went to?"

As Phillips told him Sutton nodded. "That's the address I sent my men to a bit ago sir. If you give me a moment I'll check with them," and as Dan nodded his head and leaned back in his chair Sutton pressed his Comm badge.

"Collison, this is Captain Sutton."

"This is Collison," came the reply.

"Have you found Ensign Kieffer?"

"No sir. I was just about to call you. The address you gave us? It's empty. Not a stick of furniture in it."

Sutton frowned and looked up at Dan. "Have you questioned the neighbors?"

"Nicolas is questioning one now and I'm on my way to another one, sir."

"Good. Let me know. Sutton out."

Dan leaned forward. "Ensign Phillips, when you were at Kieffer's place was there furniture there? Did it look lived in?"

"Yes sir, although he didn't have a whole lot of furniture."

"Did he ever mention anything about maybe moving?" asked Jason.

"No sir. He said he liked his little apartment."

Dan puffed his cheeks and exhaled loudly. "Well thank you Ensign. Do not tell anyone of this conversation. It is classified, do you understand?"

Phillips bobbed his head. "Yes sir. But may I ask, have I done anything wrong?"

"No you are fine Ensign. But keep your eyes and ears open and if by a miracle Kieffer does contact you act natural and then let me know immediately afterwards, clear?

"Yes sir," smiled Phillips, a bit more relaxed now.

"Dismissed," said Dan. "You too Lt Scott and thanks for coming in." He then stood and walked to the window as the men left. After a few minutes Dan turned to Jason and Brad.

"Well things fit and at least it's a clue but it still doesn't tell us where Kathryn is. Kieffer is the key."

Chakotay, who had stood silently at the back wall during this whole exchange suddenly said, "Investigate him from before the Academy. Maybe you'll find some kind of clue that will help."

Dan spun and looked at him and then smiled. "I completely forgot you were here Chakotay. That's the quietest I think you have ever been."

Chakotay smiled. "Sometimes it pays to just listen and I was hoping to pick up something that you didn't while you were busy questioning Phillips. As far as I can tell Phillips is clear, but you're right about Kieffer. He's guilty as hell."

Brad nodded. "I agree. Let Jason and I investigate Kieffer."

Dan simply nodded his head and folded his arms across his chest as Jason and Brad hurried out of the room.

* * * *

The investigation continued without any further clues being discovered. Brad and Jason did not find anything about Kieffer that would lead to any subversive leanings. They had even gone back to his early school days and felt totally frustrated at not finding a single clue.

The breakthrough came unexpectedly. Phillips, weary from so many hours stopped at the pub he and Kieffer had visited a couple of times while on his way home. Getting a beer he found a table in a back corner. It was still early and most of the crowd had not arrived. An hour later as he sat sipping his second beverage he saw a man enter and take a seat over in the far corner. Phillips, knowing he couldn't be seen in his position stared at him. The man looked vaguely familiar and then all of a sudden it hit him. It was Kieffer! He had a beard and changed the color of his hair and it was a bit longer, but it was him - he was sure of it! He watched him for another few minutes and noticed certain mannerisms that were definitely Kieffer. When he got up to go to the men's room, Phillips quickly left and hurried to his shuttle, where he called Captain Sutton.

Sutton listened carefully and after ascertaining Phillips was certain this was Kieffer, told him to go back in the bar, get a beer, look around for a seat and try to get as close as he could to the man. Then after a few minutes move to Kieffer's table and say it took him a few minutes to recognize him and sit down. He was also told to keep his Comm line open.

Phillips walked back to the pub doors, took a deep breath and then acting casual entered. After getting his ale he glanced around and spotted a table almost beside Kieffer and slowly made his way there, taking an occasional sip as he moved. After sitting down he leaned back and stretched, took another swig and yawned. Then he looked at Kieffer but didn't act as if he recognized him and continued to drink his beer, then signaled the barkeep for a sandwich and sat and waited.

After getting his sandwich, and while eating it he again looked at Kieffer, who was looking directly at him. Phillips' heart jumped, as he knew he had been recognized. However all he did was give a perfunctory nod of his head and continued to devour the sandwich.

Suddenly he said, "Well I'll be," and go up and moved to Kieffer's table and with a big grin said, "Hi! I didn't recognize you, you've changed!" and sat down.

Kieffer didn't smile but just shrugged his shoulders and said he did that occasionally.

"Where you been? I haven't seen you at work lately?" asked Phillips.

"I was transferred to another department," he said.

"Oh. Yeah, Starfleet does shift us around without warning," said Phillips and laughed. "So how have you been?"

"Been okay. You recovered from your sickness?"

"Yep, I finally got over whatever it was."

"Glad to hear it. What job are you on now, still guarding the Captain's house?"

"No they switched me to another case. Bummer on the Captain being kidnapped."

"Yeah it sure is. Do they have any idea who or how it happened?"

"Not a clue the last I heard. Somebody sure pulled a fast one and it looks like they got away with it."

Kieffer leaned back, took a drink of his beer and said, "Too bad."

Suddenly two men grabbed Kieffer's arms from behind and then Captain Sutton came charging in the front door with phaser drawn.

"Ensign Kieffer, or whoever you are, you are under arrest. You will come with me."

Kieffer looked at Phillips and snarled, "You bastard!"

Phillips playing it innocent all the way said, "What? What did I do? I didn't even know you were in here! What's going on, Captain?"

At Headquarters, down in the Security Division, Kieffer sat silently on a chair while Captain Sutton questioned him. Suddenly the door opened and Captain Raymond strode briskly in and stood in front of Kieffer and just stared at him.

Kieffer's previous bravado disappeared and he felt nervous and started to fidget at the glare he was getting.

"Ensign Kieffer?" said Raymond.

Kieffer looked up. "That's my name."

"That's my name, sir, is the proper response Ensign," thundered Dan.

Kieffer didn't reply.

Dan pulled a chair right in front of Kieffer and with it's back to the prisoner straddled it and placed his elbows on the high back. "Why Ensign?"

"Why what, sir."

"Why have you kidnapped Captain Janeway? Just what possible good do you hope to achieve by that act?"

Kieffer did not reply.

"Answer me Ensign!"

Again Kieffer did not reply.

Dan stood, looked at Sutton and said, "Take him downstairs to the dungeon and kill him. He's of no use to us," and he turned and started walking briskly for the door.

"You kill me and you'll never find Janeway!" he blurted out, and then dropped his head in chagrin at what he had said.

Dan slowly turned and smiled. "So you do have a tongue Ensign. Very well. Let's make a deal. Tell us where the Captain is and you won't get life in prison. You're too young to spend the rest of your life in captivity."

Kieffer merely raised his head and glared at Dan.

"Is Captain Janeway still alive?"

"Don't you wish you knew," he snarled defiantly.

"Yes, I do wish I knew Ensign. Is she?"

Kieffer remained silent.

"Look Ensign. I know the code of not turning in your cohorts. But the truth is we have you and know you are involved. We know you put something in Ensign Phillips food to make him ill, we know you were at the backdoor when Captain Janeway opened it for some fresh air. We know you are the one who tried to grab her."

Then Dan smiled. "And you know this also. We can administer a truth serum during which you will tell us all we want to know. If we have to take this method, then you have not cooperated and will be sentenced to life imprisonment without any possibility whatsoever for parole. That's maybe 100 years in prison. Do you like the sound of that?"

Kieffer chewed at his lip.

"Well?"

Kieffer cleared his throat, was quiet a moment and then said, "Janeway is still alive, but I don't know for how long."

"Why do you say that?"

"Because last night they were talking of killing her and leaving Earth. I said I didn't want to be part of any killing so they told me to get lost. I changed my appearance, but I guess it wasn't enough as Phillips recognized me."

"Where are they holding her?" asked Dan, an anxious tone in his voice.

"It's a house in the southeast part of the city," he said quietly.

Dan immediately got a Padd and after Kieffer told him the address, Dan looked at Sutton. "Gather a team of the best and meet me in thirty minutes in the shuttle bay. And," he said looking back at Kieffer, "Lock this bum up tight with a 24-hour guard!"

One hour later, a block away from the target house, the team was ready. Chakotay had not only insisted, but also demanded to be part of the rescue and Dan knowing his deep despair finally gave in. He only hoped that they would find Kathryn alive. He looked at Sutton and nodded his head.

Sutton quietly reviewed the instructions for surrounding the house and the signal to go in on his Comm line, and then he, Dan and Chakotay, along with Nicolas, Phillips and Collison started a stealthy frontal approach. The rest of the team quickly moved to their assigned positions and when within two houses of the suspect house everyone stopped.

Sutton brought out his vision glasses and scoped out the front of the house, and then whispered for Lt Scott in the back to do the same. Lt Jackson on the East side of the house, and Ensign Martin on the West each took time to carefully peruse their assigned side of the premises. Each reported no activity or anything that looked suspicious so Sutton again gave the signal to move in. At last they were all one house away.

Sutton then nodded to Collison and Nicolas who quickly ran onto the front lawn and against the side of the suspect house. Nicolas took off his hat and slowly raised his head to look in the window and then after squatting back down gave Sutton the signal that particular view was all clear. Collison, after checking his window gave the same signal. Sutton waited for reports from Lt Scott, Jackson and Martin, who each reported no seen activity, and then he, Chakotay, Dan and Phillips quickly ran and joined Nicolas.

"The front room is empty sir," whispered Nicolas.

"Does the front door lead into that room?" asked Sutton.

"Yes sir." Sutton relayed this information to Scott and waited for his report regarding the back of the house. Finally Scott sent word the back rooms that they could see looked empty also. Sutton then told Martin and Jackson and their squads to be alert that he was going in.

Rising up, Captain Sutton hesitated a moment and then suddenly sprinted full speed to the front door and crashed through, quickly followed by Nicolas, Collison and Phillips. Immediately upon crashing through the door the men threw themselves prone on the floor, each facing a different direction, their Phaser Rifles in ready position. Everything was quiet.

Seconds later a crash was heard at the back door followed by separate thumps and Sutton knew Scott and his squad had entered the house. Other than the windows on the side, which were covered by his men, all escape routes were now covered. Slowly he rose and in a hunched stealth position Sutton moved for the next room. Nicolas followed and Collison headed for another room while Phillips remained watching the front door. Within moments the teams determined there was no one in the house and Sutton walked to the door and signaled to Dan and Chakotay.

Dan had held an anxious Chakotay back until they knew the house had been secured. As they approached he shook his head. "No one here sir. The house is empty."

As they walked in Lt Scott was standing quietly staring at a closet door. "What's up Lt?" asked Sutton.

"I don't know, Sir. I was about to open this closet, but I just have a strange feeling about this door."

"You haven't opened it?"

"No sir, I just don't . . . well maybe it's nothing," and he started to reach for the handle.

"NO!" yelled Ensign Martin as he entered the room. "Don't touch it!"

Scott jerked his hand back and everyone turned and looked at the Ensign.

"Sir just as I came in the door I caught a glint of something on the side of the door frame. The branch outside must have moved with the wind letting the sun in, but I'm sure I saw something!"

Dan walked to the door and intently stared at it. "I don't see . . ." he started to say when Sutton inhaled sharply.

"I see it here, sir," he said as he looked at the other side. "A very, very fine filament." Without further word he turned to Collison. "Get the bomb squad here on the double!"

Everyone stood staring at one another and suddenly Chakotay moved up to the door and yelled, "Kathryn?"

No sound was heard so he yelled again. "Kathryn are you in this closet?"

A small thump was heard.

"Kathryn!" he yelled again. "Was that you?"

Again a small thump was heard.

"Can you talk? Oh wait a minute maybe you can't. Kathryn, use one thump for yes and two for no, okay?"

Thump. Chakotay looked back at Dan and grinned. Dan quickly held up his hand and moved up beside Chakotay.

"Kathryn this is Dan. Can we safely open this door?"

Thump, thump.

"Well that answers that," said Dan quietly and he looked back at Martin. "Good eyes Ensign."

"Thank you sir, but I think it was the wind that deserves thanks. If that glint of sunlight hadn't hit that wire, who knows what would have happened."

Dan walked to the far side of the closet where Sutton was looking at the filament. "Where does it lead? Have you followed it yet?"

"So far I'm almost down to the floor sir. It's very hard to see."

Dan looked at the floor and the room, his eyes scanning for any possible glint or idea as to where the filament led.

"Here it is, sir," said Sutton excitedly. "It goes up to the ceiling. They patched it so well you can barely see it."

"Good work Sutton. What made you look up instead of continuing on the floor?"

"Simple," grinned Sutton. "Down at the bottom it went into the closet."

Dan exhaled, stared a moment and then tapped his Comm Badge. "Lt Dixon this is Captain Raymond. Is the Admiral in?"

"Yes sir, I'll transfer you."

A moment later Admiral Dodge's voice was heard. "Dan, have you found her?"

"Yes sir we have, but we also have a very large problem. We think the closet she's in is wired with a bomb. I need, very quickly, a detailed map of this address. Can you expedite that request sir?"

"It's done. I'll have it sent to your shuttle. What address and which shuttle do you have?"

"It's 1147 SE 8th Street and it's Lt Sutton's sir and thank you."

Ten minutes later a Captain walked in and it was obvious he was from the bomb squad. He was wearing heavy protective gear and carried a container. He was followed by a Lt and several other men, all wearing the identical protective gear.

"I'm Captain Smith. I understand you have a possible bomb here?"

"Yes sir," said Sutton, and proceeded to show him the wire leading around the closet doorframe, the lower end going into the closet and the other half going into the ceiling.

Smith looked at the wire and puffed his cheeks. "That baby is hard to see. Someone had sharp eyes or you would all be sitting on a fleecy cloud somewhere"

Collison, who had been sent out to the shuttle to await the building plans for the house hurried in with a Padd. "Here are the plans for this house, sir."

Sutton looked at it momentarily and then handed it to Smith. "Good thinking on that," Smith mused with a smile. He then spent several minutes looking at it, then turned and studied the closet, looking from Padd to closet and back. At this point he moved to the edge of the door and intently studied the filament. Finally satisfied, he motioned to the Lt.

"This is Lt. Yoshimoro," he said in a general tone and to no one in particular. "Yoshi we need to cut a hole in this wall about two feet by two feet."

"Wait!" yelled Chakotay. "You'll endanger Kathryn."

"We are not endangering anyone, Commander," he said. "Besides," and he grinned, "If I've made a mistake no one in this room will know." And then he mouthed 'boom' as he spread his arms.

Chakotay scowled. "That's my wife in there! How can you joke at a time like this!"

"Comes with the job," he replied quietly.

Chakotay stared at him a moment and then understood. He nodded his head but said, "Tell your man to be extra careful. You don't know where the wires are on the inside."

"That's true," said Smith. "Can the person in the closet talk?"

"Sort of," said Chakotay. "It's Captain Janeway and she can thump her feet. Once for yes and twice for no."

"Well that's simple enough," and he walked to the door. "Captain Janeway, this is Captain Smith of the bomb squad. Is there a bomb in there with you?"

Thump.

"Okay. I'm going to tap on the wall and I want you to tell me if any of the bomb's wires are in this area." He tapped on the area he wanted to cut a hole.

Silence.

Smith looked back at Chakotay. "You didn't tell me what silence meant . . . maybe?"

Chakotay just stared at him because he didn't know.

"Two silent Sam's" muttered Smith and turned to the wall and knocked, louder this time.

There was a momentary silence and then, thump, thump.

Smith grinned and knocked again. "Was that a no, Captain?"

Thump.

Smith turned to Yoshimoro. "Okay Yoshi, you're up."

Yoshi immediately moved to the wall with his cutting instrument and within a few moments had cut the 2'X2' in the area Captain Smith had indicated, leaving thin strands at the two upper corners, which held the panel in place. He then reached into his bag and pulling out two instruments with extremely thin tongs, carefully slid the thin ends into each top corner and gently pulled forward. When it was out enough for his fingers he gradually worked the panel out enough that he could then grasp it. Nodding to the Captain, Smith inserted a thin knife and finished cutting the two corners. Yoshi then pulled the panel straight out from the wall and handed it to Captain Smith. Everyone in the room seemed to exhale at the same time.

Yoshi grinned at that and then turned on his Wrist Lamp and carefully extended his arm through the opening and leaned his head into the closet. As he shone his light down at the floor he smiled at the two wide eyes of Captain Janeway staring back at him.

"Hi Captain Janeway. Be with you in a minute," he said as he moved the light around the closet, closely followed by his keen eyes. As he rotated his head and looked above where his top cut in the opening was, he saw a wire hanging down and said, "Whoops, I missed that wire by only an inch!" Looking down at Kathryn he smiled and saw she was vigorously nodding her head up and down.

Yoshi then saw the bomb up in the corner of the door and asked Kathryn if that was the only bomb.

"Miff."

"Oh I'm sorry. I'll get that tape off your mouth so you can talk to us," and he reached down to her face, being careful not to touch the wire that was now dangling right at the edge of the cut, and worked a corner of the tape free.

"You know I've never been able to decide whether ripping tape off fast was less painful than taking it off slowly. My mama always told me that it didn't matter," and he suddenly ripped it all the way off in one smooth sudden pull.

"Ouch!" yipped Kathryn. "Nice try on distracting me Lt. but it still smarts!"

Yoshi just smiled at her. "You okay?"

"If you mean physically, I guess I'm all right."

Chakotay moved up beside Yoshi and kneeling down peered over his shoulder. "Honey are you okay?"

"Hi sweetheart. I will be if they can do something about these bombs."

Captain Smith immediately tugged Chakotay back so Yoshi could continue his work.

Yoshi frowned. She said bombs, plural, not bomb singular. He nodded up to the corner. "That's not the only bomb?"

"No unfortunately it isn't."

"Well we can take care of them all once we get you out of this closet. Can you slide over to me so I can grab your shoulders and I'll pull you through this hole? You'll fit easily enough," he said as he reached for her.

"NO! Don't touch me. They have a bomb in my hands and under my back and it apparently is some type of pressure bomb that is being held by my weight."

Yoshi leaned back his eyes big and then pulling out of the opening, stood and moved to Smith. "They have a pressure bomb under her back and in her hands. One move by her and its . . . boom!"

"Well that wasn't very nice of them," mused Smith. "Okay, we need room and we need more light so Yoshi my man, you are small enough to go through that hole and disarm the one you did see. Then maybe we can open the door."

Yoshi nodded, took off his protective headgear, jacket and shirt. Now with only his T-shirt and trousers, he moved back, positioned himself and slowly stuck both arms through, followed by the twisting of his head and shoulders until he was inside up to his waist. Part way through he almost snagged that dangling wire with his T-shirt, but Captain Smith moved quickly and delicately moved the wire so his clothing did not hit it.

"Okay Cap I'm going to need you to hold onto my feet and be careful I don't hit that wire," he said as he placed his hands on the floor and determined where he would hand-walk until his feet were inside. It was difficult as his wrist light was casting weird shadows.

Captain Smith took hold of Yoshi's ankles and on his signal lifted and gradually Yoshi's legs began to move through the opening, with Smith guiding his shoes away from the wire. Everyone in the room held their breaths.

After what seemed hours to those watching, Yoshi's feet were inside and he finally signaled for the Captain to release his left leg and with Kathryn feeling he must be double-jointed, put that foot on the floor. A moment later Smith was told to release the right leg. Yoshi slowly, inch by inch and with Kathryn's guidance, moved his feet up by his hands and then with his body screaming at the position, slowly leaned back, putting him in a squatting position above her shins. With a deep exhale he carefully examined where he was.

As last he pivoted around on the balls of his feet and shining the light at Kathryn smiled and said, "Hi there -fancy meeting you in this closet. Come here often?"

Kathryn frowned. "Very funny Lt."

"Please, in situations such as this, I like a first name basis with the person I might be going to heaven with, so call me Yoshi."

Kathryn suddenly smiled in understanding. "Humor, Yoshi?"

"Comes with the job ma'am. In fact, it's almost a requirement," he added with a big smile.

"Well as I once told a young Ensign of mine you only call me ma'am when it's crunch time and I guess this fits the bill, but please, call me Kathryn."

Yoshi nodded. "Very well, it's Kathryn," and he slowly stood and shone his light completely around the room and finally up at the bomb.

"Captain Smith?"

"Yes?" replied Smith.

"Here's the short and tall of this situation. I'm short and that bomb is up at the ceiling so I need about a two foot step stool to stand on."

Lt Scott, hearing this said, "I saw one in the kitchen sir," and took off on a run, returning seconds later and handed the stool to Smith who slowly put it through the hole to Yoshimoro.

He placed the stool down and carefully stood on it, virtually coming face-to-face with the bomb. He studied it for several minutes. As he did this he started whistling.

"Whistling in the dark, Yoshi?" smiled Kathryn as she tried to maintain pressure on the bomb under her.

"Uh huh. It's habit when we start getting down to the nitty gritty," he said as he put his hands up by the bomb.

Suddenly he saw one very fine filament going from the bomb up into the ceiling. "Oh, oh," he mused and stopped all movement

"Did I hear an 'oh, oh', Yoshi?" asked Smith as he kneeled at the opening.

"Uh Captain we have a problem," replied Yoshimoro. "Seems as if this lovely thing might have a detonator up in the crawl space."

"Well if that doesn't that twist your . . ." He stopped and looked down at Kathryn, smiled sheepishly and after pulling his head away from the hole stood. "Is there an entry to the ceiling crawl space?"

The minute Smith moved away from the hole Chakotay kneeled down and smiled reassuringly at Kathryn. "We'll get you out of there, honey." Kathryn just smiled and nodded her head.

Smith moved to Dan and Captain Sutton who were studying the house plans and then Dan moved quickly out of the room and into the hallway. Pointing to the ceiling he said, "There."

Smith stared at it a few minutes and then scratched his head, while moving it side to side.

"You are shaking your head no. What is it Captain?" asked Dan.

"That trap door doesn't look like it's been moved at all. It just might be wired to our friend in the closet and we push it up and . . . boom."

Just then Lt Jackson came hurrying in and hearing the conversation said, "Sir, I've been investigating outside the house and there is a vent up near the roof on the back side with marks on the siding. There was a ladder nearby so I put the ladder up and they match the marks identically. So I went up the ladder and peered through the slats."

"Show me Lt," said Smith sharply and both men moved outside. "What did you see?"

"Nothing much, except I did see a red light, sir. It's quite dark in there."

Without a word Smith moved up the ladder and holding his wrist light moved it around, as he peered through the slats. He saw 'the 'box' and indeed there was a red light, but there wasn't anything blinking and he couldn't see if there was a timer. He then trailed his light from the box back to the vent and grinned. The insulation was trampled down. This was the way they had gone in. After carefully examining the vent for any wires and finding none he pried it out.

Looking down at Jackson he told him he needed his box of tools and to tell Lt Yoshimoro he was going into the crawl space and to please not do anything with his sweetheart in the closet.

Jackson ran in, got the indicated toolbox and called the Captain's message to Yoshimoro.

Yoshi chuckled and looked down at Kathryn. "Sorry sweetheart," he said in an imitation of the old 20th century movie star Humphrey Bogart, "but you will have to wait." Despite her situation Kathryn chuckled.

Chakotay carefully reached through the opening and constantly squeezed Kathryn's shoulder, all the while telling her how worried and frantic he was and how much he loved her.

"I knew you wouldn't give up honey. I just felt you would find me sooner or later."

Yoshi still standing on the stool could now hear Smith's stealthy move in the crawl space. He grinned as he could hear Smith start to hum. Kathryn looked up, hearing it also.

"You whistle and Captain Smith hums?"

"Yep and you know the funny thing is sometimes we are even in harmony!"

"Can you talk to him on your Comm badge to know what he's doing?" asked Kathryn.

Yoshi got a very serious look on his face. "Oh no Kathryn. Some bombs are keyed to communication and you talk and . . . boom!"

"That's the third time I've heard that word used, Lt" said Chakotay.

"Well just pray it's not the last thing you hear," he replied as he strained to listen to Captain Smith, who now sounded like he might be right above him.

Up in the crawl space, Captain Smith intently studied his bomb. After an extended period of time, he was ready to proceed, and set up a relay situation.

"Lt. Jackson I want you to inform Crocker of my plan. I want someone to stand at the vent opening and shine two Wrist Lights on this critter. Then have someone at the bottom of the ladder, someone at the back door and a couple of other people inside who can relay information to my buddy in the closet. Tell him I have Green, Red, Black and Blue wires. Now go get it set up. He will know there are extra Wrist Lights in our equipment. Oh and one other thing, I want the house vacated by all except those involved in this relay as well as nearby houses. The block has already been cordoned off but I also want the neighbors out of here."

"Yes sir," and Jackson scurried down the ladder.

As Jackson relayed the message to Lt Crocker of Smith's team, the house was ordered vacated.

Captain Sutton got all of his team moving out and as Dan readied to leave he looked at Chakotay still sitting at the closet.

"Come on Chakotay. We're order to leave."

"No Dan, I'm not leaving."

"Chakotay it's an order!"

Chakotay looked back at him. "You just don't understand, Dan," he said in an almost inaudible voice.

Dan stood and looked at him and suddenly he did understand. If the bomb went off Chakotay wanted to die with Kathryn. He nodded his head. "Okay," he said quietly and left with the others.

Chakotay turned back to Kathryn and squeezed her shoulder. "I won't leave you Kathryn."

She smiled and nodded her head. "You're being my angry warrior again. I love you sweetheart."

Thirty minutes later everything was set. The house had been vacated of all but Captain Smith's team and the neighbors moved out of their houses. During all of this activity Yoshi had sent word to Smith that his wires were identical.

Now it was time. Smith had continued to intently study the bomb during the interval and looked over at Ensign Stewart standing at the vent and nodded. Receiving a nod in return, he took a deep breath and started to whistle while he positioned his cutters for the first wire.

"Green" he shouted to Stewart, who in turn shouted it to Blake on the ground, who yelled it over to Aston at the back door. From there it went to Lt York and lastly Crocker who yelled the color to Yoshi. After positioning his cutter on the green wire Yoshi waited. Soon he heard the command 'Now' coming on the relay and as Crocker shouted the command to Yoshi, he muttered, "I just hope you got the timing down Smitty my man," and made his cut. He instinctively closed his eyes, held his breath and waited, but there was only silence.

He blew out a big breath of air and glancing down at Kathryn and Chakotay who were just looking at one another and smiled as he said, "One down, three to go."

"The next call was for the Red wire and again nothing happened. Yoshi, still trying to lighten the moment as well as his nerves, muttered, "Okay Black and blue are left, so we have a 50% chance of living . . . or dying."

There was an extended silence and Yoshi, sweat pouring down his face, knew Smith had a difficult decision. Even if this next cut were right, it could still set off the bomb.

Finally the call came for the Black wire, but the message also stated that immediately upon cutting the Black wire to also cut the Blue as quickly as possible. Yoshi, knowing Smith was timing the calls within the relay, and that he could possibly hear Crocker's final yell, nodded but told him to say his signal extra loud. Crocker, understanding Smith and Yoshi's system nodded in understanding.

Crocker yelled "Now" on the Black wire and Yoshi cut and immediately moved to the Blue wire and snipped it. There was complete silence in the house.

Suddenly Yoshi, as well as Kathryn and Chakotay, could hear Captain Smith up in the crawl space start to laugh. His laugh became louder and louder and then he could be heard leaving the crawl space.

Soon he was in the front room, soaked in sweat but still chuckling, and kneeling down beside Chakotay at the closet, he peered up at Yoshi.

"A panel lit up after I cut the Blue and I thought, 'Oh boy this is it', but it was only a message."

"Anything I should know," asked Yoshi as he swiped the sweat running into his eye.

"It said, 'The joke is on you - boom!' and even though relieved I could have smashed the thing."

Yoshi laughed as he climbed down off the stool and stepped carefully around Kathryn. "So I guess we can open this door then?"

"Looks like it," replied Smith.

Yoshi, ever cautious, moved his light all around the door but didn't see any wires or filaments. Still, he felt uneasy and squatted down even with the handle and strike plate and moved his light in different angles.

Smith moved to the door and reached for the handle.

Suddenly Yoshi saw it and yelled, "NO, don't touch the handle!"

Captain Smith jerked his hand back and moved to the hole.

"Cap those buggars are pretty smart. It looks like they have placed a minute amount of explosive inside the latch hole and when the handle is turned to open the door, the latch moves back inside the recess, hits it and . . ."

"Boom," finished Chakotay.

Yoshi laughed. "You are getting it Commander."

"So what's the solution?" asked Smith as he moved back to the door and peered intently along the latch plate. "I can't see it from out here but I also don't see any wires around the door frame."

"Well, how good are you at removing the bolts from the hinges and moving the door out without disturbing the latch?"

Smith smiled. "Very good actually, Lt Yoshimoro. You might say it's my specialty," he joked. "That looks like what we will have to do."

For the next ten minutes Captain Smith and Lt Crocker worked on slowly removing the bolts from the door hinges without jiggling the latch and when they were free the two of them, along with Yoshi inside the closet slowly started to remove the door while the remainder of Captain Smith's crew held their breath. At that point Chakotay had been forced to move and did so, albeit reluctantly.

As the door was slowly moved away Yoshi had immediately locked onto the latch as it pulled free with his pincers, preventing it from moving and with a big sigh the door was at last free. They slowly laid it down on the floor and while Crocker worked to remove the explosive Yoshi moved to the open space, took a deep breath and knelt down beside Kathryn. Chakotay immediately moved back to his former position at the cut hole and placed his hand on her shoulder.

Yoshi cocked his head and peered intently at the small of her back trying to determine the best method of getting Kathryn off that bomb.

"What do you feel Kathryn?" he asked as he lay the side of his head on the floor and tried to look under her back.

"Numb," she replied causing Yoshi to chuckle.

"No, I mean what does the bomb feel like? Did you see it before they put it in your hands and how did they arm it?"

Kathryn described the events but had to admit she never saw the bomb. It was just placed in her hands.

"Did they have you hold it in a certain way?" he mumbled as he slowly tried to slide one hand under her back.

"They positioned my thumbs and told me to never move them," she replied.

Yoshi straightened and looked at her and then quickly moved so he was kneeling between her legs. "Kathryn I swear I am not being fresh, but I have to lay on you and I'll let you slap my face later if you deem it necessary," he said with a smile and then lowered himself down so he was lying on top of her with his head just at breast level.

Smith chuckled and said, "Lucky man Yoshi. What a way to go," causing both men to laugh.

Kathryn, although slightly embarrassed, felt Yoshi start to slide a hand under her back from each side, and her heart pounded. She looked at Chakotay and gave him a small, nervous smile

Gradually and very slowly Yoshi moved his hands onto hers until they were completely within his grasp and then asked, "How much do you weigh Kathryn?"

"About 103," she said softly. Yoshi lifted his head and looked at Captain Smith who was squatting in the doorway. He merely nodded as if understanding Yoshi's intent.

Kathryn then felt Yoshi's thumbs beside hers. "Don't move your thumbs Kathryn. Let me move them. Okay?" he asked as he slightly turned his head and looked at her.

She nodded her head.

"Good," and he lay his head back down on her right breast and angled it so he was looking at her back. Slowly Kathryn felt Yoshi moving her thumb and she felt momentary panic. "Just relax Kathryn," he said softly as he felt her body tighten, and then with a light chuckle, "I promise I'll be gentle."

Suddenly she did not feel the little knob under that thumb anymore and knew what Yoshi was now doing. He started to move his left thumb and slowly pushed hers to one side until at last his thumb was where hers had been.

"All right Kathryn," he said. "I'm going to pull you to a sitting position and . . ."

"No!" she said. "They told me it was my body weight that . . ."

"Trust me Kathryn," he said as he raised his head.

She looked into those brown eyes a moment and then nodded her head.

"Now, as I was going to add I am also going to squeeze your hands as I pull you up so we maintain the pressure. However, I'm afraid I will hurt your hands, maybe even break a bone or two, but that's better than the alternative, right?"

Kathryn smiled and nodded her head. "Let's do it, Yoshi."

"Need some help Yoshi?" asked Smith as he noticed him beginning to move one leg.

"Too many cooks," muttered Yoshi as he continued to position his right leg until he had the knee on the floor. "I'm going to squeeze your hands now Kathryn. I'm sorry if I hurt you."

The sudden pressure gave her intense pain and as she cried out she was suddenly jerked to a sitting position. The pain was so incredible she was barely aware he had raised her for a moment or two, until she realized she was fully and tightly in his arms and his chin was now on her shoulder and he was peering down her back at the bomb.

"What do you see, Yoshi?" she asked.

"A bomb," he replied in a tone that indicated he was smiling.

"I mean what does it look like?"

"You're getting the hang of this, Kathryn," he said with a laugh. "Well, it's sort of round and yet square, but you could tell that and it's black," he grunted as he continued to look at it. Kathryn, despite the severity and intensity of the situation, giggled.

After a moment, and while continuing the intense pressure with his hands, he moved first one leg and then the other so he was on his knees and straddling her, giving him more balance.

"Same procedure Kathryn. I'm going to gradually move one finger at a time on one hand until I have the bomb, so just relax and enjoy yourself." He chuckled. "I only wish I could. It's not often I get to put my arms around a beautiful woman who can't resist."

Slowly she felt Yoshi moving her fingers one at a time until at last her left hand was free and he told her she could move the hand away. It hurt like blazes as she moved it as much as she could to her side. She then attempted to flex her fingers and immediately knew there were definitely some broken bones

After what felt like an eternity her right hand was also free and then she could feel Yoshi moving his arms up and over her head. He then rose to his feet and stood looking at what he was holding for a moment, before quickly moving out of the closet and nodding to Captain Smith, who immediately moved in and lifted Kathryn to her feet. Her legs were not too cooperative at first so Smith wrapped an arm around her waist.

"Get the Osteo Regenerator," he growled as he helped her out of the closet and across the room. Ensign York immediately moved forward with a Med Kit.

"Is the boom box outside?" asked Yoshi.

"Yes sir," replied Crocker and he and Yoshi headed outside, walked to a large truck and as Crocker swung the doors open Yoshimoro walked inside.

In the house Smith nodded to Chakotay to take Kathryn and as he gratefully slipped his arm around his wife, Captain Smith ran outside to join Yoshi inside the truck. Crocker closed the doors, hesitated a moment and then returned to the room.

York finished repairing Kathryn's hands and then ran a Medical TriCorder over her. Finally he looked up and smiled. "A little malnourished and a few bruises, but otherwise you are okay Captain."

Kathryn nodded and turned into Chakotay's arms. "I wasn't sure if I'd ever see you again, sweetheart," she said, as Chakotay kissed her and then engulfed her totally in his arms.

"You are never leaving my sight again!"

Kathryn turned her head toward Lt Crocker and asked, "What is Yoshi going to do?"

"Well he and the Captain will try to determine if there's a way to disarm it, Captain. If it happens to go off, the truck will absorb the blast." He didn't add that Yoshi and Smith would be lost. Kathryn nodded her head.

"I don't quite understand, Lt," said Chakotay. "It was Kathryn's body weight that kept it from detonating and yet Yoshi was able to just hold it and move it from her."

Crocker grinned. "Yoshi is one of the strongest men in the unit, Commander. You remember when he asked how much the Captain weighed?"

Chakotay nodded.

"Well Yoshi, in strength tests, has achieved a hand strength score of 150, so with Captain Janeway only weighing 103, he knew if he could get his hands on it he could move it from under her back because he could more than equal the strength she was using to hold the two knobs down."

Kathryn smiled. "Well when he squeezed my hands the pain was excruciating and now I know why."

Crocker chuckled. "It was also a way to get your mind off the fact he was going to pull you up to a sitting position."

Kathryn smiled. "You're right. I didn't realize I was sitting up for a while." Then she tightened her arms around Chakotay and laid her head on his shoulder and the two of them silently stood there, wrapped in each other's arms.

Suddenly there was a scuffling sound and Captain Sutton and Lt Scott pushed two strange men into the room.

"We caught these men trying to slip through the barricade, sir," said Sutton.

Kathryn and Chakotay turned at the commotion and then wide-eyed she pointed and said sharply, "That's the man that shot at me in the park!"

Both men tried to bolt from the room but were quickly wrestled to the floor by all the Security men in the room and then roughly hauled to their feet. While having them hold their hands out front, wrist restraints were placed on both of them.

A few moments later Yoshi and Captain Smith walked back in the room with Yoshi still holding the bomb. After being told the two men were part of the plot against Captain Janeway Yoshi suddenly thrust the bomb very hard into one of the man's hands and yelled, "Hold tight!"

"No!" screamed the man as his face went white.

"Hold tight I said, or it will go boom," snarled Yoshi and watched in grim satisfaction as the man could be seen squeezing the bomb with all his might.

Captain Smith then nodded to Crocker. "Take them to the Boom Box and let them hold it awhile so Yoshi can rest his hands."

"Yes sir," said Crocker with a big grin and the two men were placed in the truck.

"That's a dastardly and heinous thing to do Yoshi," said Kathryn. "Even after what they did, how could you do that? We need to question them and if they can't hold it . . ."

Both men burst out laughing. "It's disarmed Captain," said Captain Smith. "We just didn't have a chance to tell you when we walked in."

Everyone in the room joined in the laughter.

"How did you disarm it Captain," asked Chakotay.

"Well in a way it was very simple. In the truck we also have a box in which to place bombs and when Yoshi rotated his wrists for me I could see a green light was on, meaning it was armed, but beside it was a button that was extended so I placed a finger next to the button and Yoshi and I stuck our arms inside the box and lowered the lid as much as we could. We figured if I was wrong he would lose both arms and I would lose one, but because the box was bomb proof it might protect us." Kathryn stared horrified at the Captain.

"Once we were in that position I pressed the button and nothing happened, so we looked at the bottom and the red light was now on. At that point we managed to slip the cover off and removed the detonator and then put it back together and were coming in to play a game on Ensign Stewart."

Smith then looked at York. "Is Captain Janeway okay?"

"Basically sir, but after what she has been through I strongly suggest she go to the hospital for a check up."

'Very good." He looked at Dan who had quietly re-entered the room when he saw Sutton and Scott take the two culprits into the house. "I'll have the fake bomb from the crawl space removed and then I think we are finished here, Captain Raymond."

"Thank you Captain Smith. Excellent job," he said as he extended his hand and shook Smith's.

"That's what we have to do Captain, otherwise . . . boom."

"There's that word again," laughed Chakotay as he removed his arms from Kathryn long enough to shake Yoshi's hand, thumped him on the back and thanked him profusely for what he did to save Kathryn.

Yoshi just smiled and looking at Kathryn, winked and said, "It was my pleasure." Kathryn, although laughing, blushed. Both Captain Smith and Yoshi laughed as they headed out of the house, with Crocker. Stewart, who was holding the fake bomb from the crawl space rather gingerly, quickly decided to follow along.

Chakotay pulled Kathryn close as Dan told Lt Scott, "I want you to take Captain Janeway and the Commander to the hospital. And by the way, what happened to Captain Jordan and Lt Armstrong? I haven't seen them since we had to vacate the house."

"They were helping to set up the barricade and evacuate people. After that I didn't see them, sir."

Dan grinned. "Probably playing 'chicken' because of the bomb."

Just then the two came running in, each grinning broadly. "Captain," said Jason, "We've been questioning those two guys, with Captain Sutton present, of course, and it looks like it was only those two and Ensign Kieffer who were involved in this scheme. Their names are Lt. Crawford and Ensign Luna. They work in R&D with armaments, so that's why they were so knowledgeable on these bombs."

"You didn't commit any violation that would present a legal problem later did you Lt?"

"No sir, that's why we had Captain Sutton present. He also asked questions . . . called it preliminary booking charges," grinned Jason.

Dan shook his head and rolled his eyes as he turned to Kathryn and Chakotay. "After you finish your examination I would recommend you stay at my apartment."

Chakotay nodded as he looked at Kathryn. "I have been staying there while we looked for you honey. I just don't feel the house is safe."

"Anyplace is fine, so long as you hold me all night," she said softly as she looked up at him.

A three-week investigation finally concluded that the three men were alone in this attack on Kathryn. Following this detailed scrutiny of the events, the three men were brought to trial with Brad as the Prosecuting Attorney. It didn't take the jury long to find them guilty and they were sentenced to fifty years in the Brig without parole.

* * * *

Approximately a year and one-half after first discovering the subversive element, Starfleet finally concluded its review and nominations for filling in all the empty positions. Admiral Dodge was nominated to be the Chief Executive of Starfleet, which pleased, Dan, Kathryn and Chakotay. During the latest trial, Kathryn had recovered from her kidnapping and she and Chakotay finally moved back into their house, much to Simon's pleasure. He had taken it upon himself to watch the house virtually non-stop, so looters would not abscond with their belongings.

Finally Admiral Dodge was officially sworn in and a following reception was held in the Banquet Room. It was filled to capacity with virtually everyone in attendance. Starfleet finally seemed to be back to normal and 'back on it's feet'.

Kathryn and Chakotay mingled with all the guests, congratulating those who had assumed Admiralty positions or received promotions or assigned new Departments.

Dan walked up near the end of the evening. "Well I think this reception pleased Chester, even though he won't admit it."

Kathryn laughed. "Is he still planning on retiring?"

"Oh yes. By then everything should be fine under his iron fist," chuckled Dan, "And five minutes later, I can retire myself."

"To your love," kidded Kathryn. Dan roared with laughter at the reference to his cabin as his love.

Just then Captain Smith and Lt Yoshimoro walked up. Kathryn immediately gave Yoshimoro a big hug as well as a kiss on the cheek, much to his embarrassment and her delight.

"Blushing, Yoshi, and after our being so intimate too," she purred.

His face taking on a flaming red appearance, he said, "I may talk brash when working in a deadly situation Kathryn, but I am really shy," he said with a nervous smile and then ducked his head.

Captain Smith laughed. "I keep telling him he was so dumb to hold such a beautiful woman in his arms and not take advantage of the situation. The fact you had a bomb in your hands shouldn't make any difference."

Both Kathryn and Chakotay laughed. "Well I want to tell you that what you men do is marvelous and so brave, and you do it with quiet efficiency," said Kathryn.

"Don't forget the humor," said Yoshi.

"Ah yes . . . boom," chuckled Chakotay.

"Anyway," continued Kathryn, "I want to thank you Yoshi, from the bottom of my heart. I will never forget you."

"I'm just glad I was able to get you out safely," he said as he blushed again. "How are your hands by the way?"

"They are fine."

"That's good. The Captain and I also want to thank you. We were informed you put a letter of Commendation in our personnel files. That was very nice. You didn't have to do that you know. We were just doing our jobs."

"But what jobs they are! You deserved it as well as a promotion I might add. As I said, what you do is phenomenal."

"Thank you Captain," said Smith. "I think I have a fantastic squad, and this young man here," he said as he clapped Yoshi on the shoulder, "Is the very best. Well we better continue to mingle. Take care and good luck."

Kathryn immediately hugged Smith and then again kissed Yoshi on the cheek, and although he was beginning to enjoy it, he still blushed furiously, and then both men walked off with Smith obviously needling Yoshi on that kiss.

Kathryn smiled as she watched them and then turned to Dan. "I'd like to see Yoshimoro promoted to Captain sometime."

Dan nodded. "I think it will happen soon. Chester is very cognizant of what he did." He then grinned at Kathryn. "You know you two have just about run Starfleet into the ground with your escapades. Maybe you should take a nice long vacation and get away from here," and he laughed.

Kathryn smiled, "Speaking of which, you will be about the first to know that Chakotay and I have decided to move to his planet Dorvan V, at least for a few years. Neither of us seems to feel we are safe right now. I seem to be at continual risk and it's not fair to Starfleet so we both feel it best to disappear for a while and let my name be forgotten by the media. We have pretty much packed up what we want to take with us and stored all the rest."

Dan raised his eyebrows and then nodded. "Actually that's an excellent idea, Kathryn. You certainly don't need to continually look over your shoulder. I will miss you, but I understand. I still don't think we have found everyone that was involved in that black scheme, but things should settle down after a few years so I hope it's not permanent."

"Even if it turns out to be, we would like you to visit us whenever you can. The Admiral as well as Jason and Brad are welcome, too."

"I will tell them, Kathryn. Oh, oh, I see the Admiral signaling me. If I don't talk to you again before you leave, be sure and contact me on your whereabouts." After Kathryn assured him she would he hugged her, shook Chakotay's hand and left. As he walked by Brad and Jason he stopped a moment and whispered into Brad's ear.

Chakotay turned to Kathryn. "How about one last dance on Earth?"

"I'd be delighted," and they moved out on the dance floor, where with their arms around each other they barely moved to the music, much to the amusement of Brad and Jason who were watching them.

"Dan whispered to me as he went by they are leaving soon to live on Dorvan V. They feel it will be safer for a while. I'm sure going to miss them," said Jason.

"Yeah, they bring so much excitement to our lives." said Brad. "It's going to be so boring without them," and then both men laughed loudly.

Kathryn and Chakotay, upon seeing those two men laughing, smiled. They would miss those two men. They had become good and loyal friends, but Chakotay was adamant that as long as Kathryn's life was in danger, they would disappear from Earth.

To be concluded with Book Five, "The Law of Nature"

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