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

Book 3 - The Awakening And Redemption

by Dee Price


Kathryn stood staring at Jason's anguished face, her mind whirling in a jungle of confusion. Finally she shook her head and asked, "What are you saying, Jason? Where are you getting that from and what on earth do you mean Starfleet got to him? I don't understand!"

"There's a lot you don't understand, Kathryn. Things have changed a lot while you were gone. But as to your sentence, it's all there in the judge's last remarks. He the same as said he didn't agree with the sentence!" he hissed angrily. "Look can I come to your place? We can talk there."

"Yes, but please explain this," she whispered. "I feel very confused. What do we do now? Am I free?"

"Yes, you are free, we just have some final Padd's to fill out and sign. Let's get that done now and he turned and started across the room towards his desk, with a still very befuddled Kathryn following.

Halfway back to the defense table Kathryn noted Captain Jordan standing at his desk and staring at her with a very strange and yet somehow sad expression, and then she caught sight of Chakotay standing at Jason's desk with a very confused look. As she started to move quickly to him she became acutely aware the audience was sitting in stone silence, who upon seeing Jason hurry Kathryn to one side, were all now wondering what had happened.

Kathryn quickly moved to Chakotay and as his arms engulfed her in a bear hug he asked, "What's wrong? What happened? Why did Jason take you to one side?"

"I'm not sure honey, but right now I can't breathe!"

Chakotay lessened his hold on her, kissed her and then looked back as Jason tugged at his arm.

"I have to take Kathryn to the Clerk's Office to take care of the paperwork. You can wait out in the corridor and we'll see you there," he said in a firm tone. Again he took hold of Kathryn's arm and moved her forcefully toward the aisle.

Despite the confusion of the situation Kathryn suddenly noticed the aisle was lined with Voyager crewmembers, 5-6 deep on each side of the aisle all the way out to the door. She smiled and as the Security guard led the way, the crewmembers parted enough to let her walk through, all the time calling out support for her with some congratulations. Tears sprung to her eyes for such support and she smiled, nodded, said thank you as well as saying names to the faces she could see through her tears.

Once out in the corridor Jason and Kathryn turned and quickly walked to the Clerk's Office and stepped inside. As Jason was filling in the information, Brad Jordan walked in and stepped to Jason's side.

"Hi Jason," he said. Good work in there."

Jason smiled. "Thanks Brad, nice work yourself."

Brad then frowned, looked into Jason's eyes and lowering his voice said, "Jason, can I talk to you a minute?"

Jason immediately nodded his head. "Sure, go ahead I can listen while I fill this form out."

Brad leaned in closer so no one else could hear. "Did you catch the same thing I did in there?" he whispered into Jason's ear.

Jason's head snapped up and he immediately grabbed Brad and they moved to one side, with Kathryn, now more confused than ever with the prosecution conferring with Jason, following, but in an uncertain manner.

"I certainly did Brad!" exclaimed Jason.

"Are you going to do anything about it?" Brad asked, his voice still a whisper.

"I'm thinking about it. Why?"

"I think you should and I want to help"

"I was thinking of filing a Grievance."

"Good, but if both the prosecution and defense go together and do this it will get their attention, whereas if you do it alone they could just term that sour grapes."

"Would you people tell me what is going on?" asked a perplexed Kathryn.

Jason ignored her. "That's a good point Brad. They probably would just think I was a sore loser. I'd love for you to join me on this. I'm going to meet with Kathryn and Chakotay after all this paper work and explain what happened. Care to join us?"

"Would someone please tell me what's happening?" came the sharp tone of Kathryn again.

"I would love to join you Jason. This has really burned me," he replied, with both men still ignoring Kathryn.

The two men grinned in unspoken acknowledgement at one another and then shook hands.

"What is this? Enemies yet friends?" exclaimed Kathryn upon seeing this. "And what the hell is happening here? Will you two please answer me?" she said in a sharp commanding tone, as she was not used to being ignored.

Jason looked at her and laughed. "I'm sorry Kathryn. I'll explain things at your house. But yes, Brad and I are basically friends."

"You kept telling me he was an ornery man," exclaimed Kathryn while Brad shot an injured look at Jason.

Jason grinned. "I just didn't want you to like him. He's really a nice guy. As we are all lawyers and basically work out of the same office, we become friends, to a certain degree. This situation could actually have been the reverse. He could have been defending you and me prosecuting."

Brad looked at Kathryn and smiled a warm friendly smile. "I hope there are no hard feelings Captain. I just had to do my job."

Kathryn looked at him and then suddenly smiled. He had a nice face and there was something about his eyes up close that affected her and she instantly felt a trust toward him, so without hesitation she offered him her hand. "And you almost landed me in jail, Captain."

Brad chuckled. "Hardly - Jason had the case won hands down."

"But if that's so why am I on three years probation?"

"Later," whispered Jason as he pulled her back to the counter and pushed a Padd at her to sign.

Following the paper work the three walked quickly back toward where Chakotay and Tuvok were waiting.

Chakotay frowned seeing Brad Jordan with Kathryn. "What the hell is happening? Why is the prosecution with Jason and Kathryn?"

"It is indeed strange, Commander," said Tuvok.

Jason walked up and smiled. "Commander, Mr. Tuvok. Let's all go in my shuttle. You won't need the Security detail anymore. Kathryn is now free . . . well if you call three years probation free."

Chakotay turned to face Jordan, who immediately ducked behind Jason. As he peered out over Jason's shoulder, he said, "Whoa Commander. I'm not your enemy."

Jason chuckled at this, recalling Chakotay's 'cold cock you' remark. "Easy Chakotay, you'll understand shortly . . . both of you," he added as he looked at Kathryn. "Let's go!"

"Captain I cannot come with you. I must make arrangements for my return to Vulcan and thus communicate with T'Pel," said Tuvok.

Kathryn and Chakotay immediately turned to him with both giving their thanks for his assistance, along with the goodbyes and promises to see him once more before he leaves.

The ensuing ride to Kathryn and Chakotay's house was quiet and as they entered Kathryn grinned widely. "Oh sweetheart, it feels so good to be home!"

"I know, and I'm never letting you go," he said as he gathered her in his arms.

"Okay, okay, you two," said Jason. "Is there someplace we can sit and talk?"

Chakotay pointed to the front room and then noted Jordan sidestepping to stay away from him, which made him grin inwardly. "I'll get refreshments - how about lemonade all around?"

"Sounds great to me," said Brad as he made a point of sitting beside Jason on the sofa.

After giving everyone their drink, Chakotay pulled a chair up beside Kathryn as she said, "Okay, once and for all and for the last time, will someone explain to me what is happening?"

"Well," said Jason, "You know it took the judge and hour and a half to come up with his sentence and I told you it shouldn't have been that long, that some of the sentence was predicated by law. Then the judge made those last remarks after he commuted the sentence to three years probation . . ."

"All he said was I did a hell of a job. I took it as a compliment," said Kathryn.

"But the tone - his body language - his eyes, Kathryn. That told a completely different story and Brad saw it too."

"Yep I sure did, Captain. Starfleet got to him."

Kathryn threw her hands in the air and said, "That's what Jason said in the courtroom! Would you gentlemen please explain that? I feel very confused and I'm not used to feeling that way," she said with a chuckle. "And I promise not to interrupt," she added.

"While Admiral Dodge was determining the sentence it appears someone in Starfleet must have contacted him and ordered him to sentence you severely. He must have balked or objected because of the long time situation. Starfleet wanted you punished for your marriage to Chakotay. In their eyes that's a 'no no' and if it went unpunished they would have been deluged with other officers wanting to serve on the same ship as their lover or spouse, or even having officers marrying while on missions, and they couldn't have that. The whole trial, Kathryn, was to punish you for that one offense! The rest was simply a sham just to get you to trial and make sure everyone in Starfleet knew that kind of thing was not going to be tolerated!"

"Are you sure Jason?" asked Chakotay. "Hell, yes. Even Brad caught the drift and he feels like I do that we should seek redress on this - rectify the situation and he wants to join in and help."

"That way," interjected Brad, "there won't be the appearance it's just the defense crying about the sentence – being a sore loser in effect."

"So if both the prosecution and the defense unite, and do whatever you are talking about, it will carry more weight," said Chakotay with a grin.

"Exactly!" said Jason.

"I think the first thing to be done is we go talk to Admiral Dodge and then file a Grievance," said Brad.

"Yeah, but maybe not so fast, Brad. I agree on seeing Dodge, but let's hold back a few days, as if we are accepting the situation and see what Starfleet does," said Jason. "Then once they relax and think they have this situation all hogtied, we go to court and file that grievance. That will wake them up I bet." He looked at Kathryn. "What do you think Kathryn?"

"I'm still a little confused, but I get what you are thinking. However, isn't Starfleet the one that is supposed to contact me and arrange for these 'duties' during my probation?"

"Yes and I assume they will," Brad quickly said, "but Starfleet could also sit back, see if you contact them and if you don't, file a Grievance on their own and say you violated your probation. That way they can make the sentence jail time."

Kathryn looked shocked. "Oh surely they wouldn't do that - would they?"

"Kathryn you were gone for seven years. Starfleet isn't what it used to be or even should be. They have a dark side now," said Jason.

Kathryn turned to Chakotay. "I find this unbelievable and yet there were times I had a funny feeling that I couldn't explain. What do you think sweetheart?"

"Well technically we are supposed to be on a three month leave so in what way does this court martial affect that? And also, after what I experienced with Starfleet, all of this doesn't surprise me, but I think we should play on the safe side and contact Starfleet, say two days from now and ask whether the time on the Court Martial is counted in our leave of absence and what date do they have for us to report back to duty. This is Thursday, which puts us close to the weekend, Brad and Jason are going to see Admiral Dodge tomorrow, so if we call them Monday contact has been made and they can't say we broke probation. Then I agree with Jason to wait a bit and see exactly what Starfleet does or says in the next few days before hitting them with this grievance." He then smiled. "But whatever you decide honey I'll go along with."

Kathryn grinned and turned to look at Jason and Brad. "Now I ask you. Do you wonder why I say he is the best First Officer in Starfleet? He always presents all sides of a question."

"Obviously," said Brad with a grin, and then added, "But the last sentence, Commander. Was that the husband or the First Officer speaking?"

Chakotay threw his head back and laughed uproariously at that, as did Kathryn and Jason. "Touché, Captain," Chakotay finally gasped out. "And I won't cold-cock you for that one."

"Thank God. You notice I've been staying more than an arms length away from you," he said with a mischievous grin.

"I think we all noticed that, Brad," laughed Jason who then looked at Kathryn and started rubbing his cheek. "But I'm the one who got cold-cocked. You pack quite a wallop Kathryn. I actually saw stars for a second!"

Kathryn immediately started to profusely apologize, but Jason shook his head and said that he deserved it considering what he had done.

At that moment Chakotay suddenly stood and took one step toward Brad, who blinked his eyes and seemed to push back into the sofa, while one arm reflexively rose in a defensive position. Chakotay smiled at that but merely stuck out his hand, and as Brad relaxed and stood up and shook it, Chakotay said, "You don't seem like such a bad guy now, Captain Jordan. I appreciate your support on this."

Brad grinned and said, "It's Brad now, not Captain Jordan and I'm glad you are willing to let me help."

"All right," said Jason. "Tomorrow morning Brad and I will go see Admiral Dodge and we'll get back to you on that. In the meantime you two sit tight for a couple of days and – let's see it's Thursday now – okay, yeah, you call Starfleet on Monday and ask about the time situation." He then looked at Brad and grinned. "This is going to be fun!"

Suddenly Jason frowned. "Kathryn, I haven't even bothered to ask . . . you do want to fight this don't you?"

Kathryn looked at Jason and then Chakotay, and finally back at Jason. "To be honest I'm not sure. Admiral Paris came to visit me during the trial and sort of warned me that Starfleet was mainly upset about my marrying Chakotay. I didn't tell you about it, because I wanted to think about it and actually, at one time I thought if that comes down in the decision so be it. Maybe I would just retire."

"But you can't just let them win like that Kathryn," protested Brad. "They have used you as a scapegoat and this trial will also appear in your personnel jacket."

"I know," said Kathryn somberly. "My whole life has been involved in Starfleet. My daddy was an Admiral and I knew from a young girl that I wanted to be in Starfleet and Captain a ship."

"Do you still want to Captain a ship, Kathryn?" asked Chakotay softly.

"I honestly don't know at this instant. I'm angry at what I've just discovered and part of me says fight and the other part says walk away and spend time with your husband."

"Well, we have time to think about it," said Chakotay and then both he and Kathryn immediately broke into big grins as that brought back to the day on Voyager when Kathryn had found out Mark had married and she had admitted she used Mark to keep herself from getting involved with anyone.

Suddenly Kathryn nodded her head. "All right gentlemen let's play the game and see what happens. As Jason said, this is going to be fun!"

"You got that right," said Brad with a grin. "Well I should really get going." He stood and looked at Kathryn and Chakotay. "I'm glad we're on the same team on this and it's a pleasure to get to know you two personally. Take care, we'll talk to you later," and he turned for the door.

Chakotay immediately jumped up and then opened the door for him and as Jordan walked out Chakotay slapped him appreciatively on the shoulder. Jason stood and followed with a laugh.

"Where are you going Brad? You came in my shuttle, remember?"

The two men laughed hilariously as they walked to Jason's shuttle and lifted off. Kathryn looked at Chakotay and smiled. "We are definitely in good hands with those two gentlemen."

"I agree. Brad, now that he's on our side instead of prosecuting you, is quite a guy. I like him, and as they said, this is going to be very interesting," said Chakotay as he chuckled.

"I know. I especially like the way the two of them get along so well and that almost makes this mess enjoyable."

* * * *

The following morning Jason and Brad walked into Admiral Dodge's office. The Ensign behind the receptionist desk immediately stood upon their appearance.

"We would like to see Admiral Dodge, please," said Brad. "We are Captain Jordan and Lt Armstrong."

"The Admiral is quite busy, sirs, but I will check and see if he can see you for a short time," and the Ensign rapped on the door, heard a gruff, "Yes?" and entered.

A few moments later the Ensign stepped out and informed them the Admiral was extremely busy but they could see him for two minutes.

As Brad and Jason walked in the Admiral looked at them and leaned back in his chair. "Whatever it is gentlemen, make it fast as I don't have much time."

"Yes sir," said Brad, as he and Jason remained standing. "Lt Armstrong and I are here to inform you that we are going to file a Grievance regarding the sentence of Captain Janeway."

"Oh you are, are you? You don't think I ran a fair trial?"

"Oh no sir, it's not you sir. We just think the sentence of not allowing Captain Janeway to captain a ship for three years and then restricting Commander Chakotay from ever serving with her is at fault, sir. It seemed quite clear yesterday that was the intent of the trial," said Brad.

The Admiral looked both men in the eye. "And just why are you telling me this," he snapped.

"Because sir, as a matter of respect and the fact you were the ruling judge, we thought it only right to tell you what we intended to do."

"You keep saying 'we', Captain. If memory serves me right you were the prosecuting attorney in that case."

"Yes sir, but in talking with Lt. Armstrong after the decision, we find we are in agreement on this and I asked to assist in this matter," said Jordan.

Jason then spoke up, saying, "We know you cannot do anything sir, but as Captain Jordan said, we just wanted to let you know that we know . . . we feel," he hurriedly corrected himself, "that the sentence was extremely harsh and that we will be taking responsive action."

The Admiral leaned back and once again stared at the two men for some time. In fact he stared for such an extended time both Brad and Jason became uneasy. Suddenly the Admiral smiled but did not say a word, just reached quietly for a Padd, tapped at it for a bit then silently held it up facing them. Brad and Jason leaned forward and read, Captain Raymond.

As they straightened up, the Admiral pulled the Padd back, tapped at it and then tossed it on the desk. Jason was quick to see the Padd was now empty and as he looked up at Admiral Dodge saw he had one finger on his lips, indicating for them to be quiet.

The Admiral tapped at his Communicator and said, "Ensign Smith, do we have any transcript of the decision I rendered yesterday in the Janeway case?"

"No sir," was the reply. "That document will not arrive until late today, or likely Monday because this is Friday."

"Thank you Ensign." Then the Admiral in a rather grumpy voice and loud enough for the Ensign in the next room to hear, said, "You heard the answer. I don't have that information. Now move on with you I am quite busy!"

Brad and Jason turned and immediately headed for the door. As they opened it and stepped into the outer office, Jason said, "Gee whiz he is grumpy. He sure got up on the wrong side of the bed!"

Brad simply nodded his head and said, "Yeah we didn't accomplish anything coming here. Let's head over to Judiciary, maybe they can help us."

As they stepped into the hall, Jason said, "It's worth a try," and then their voices trailed off so the Ensign could hear no more. As they rounded the corner it was all the two men could do to hold their laughter inside.

Once out of sight of the Admiral's office they stopped. "Okay," said Jason. "Have you ever heard of a Captain Raymond?"

"Can't say as I have," responded Brad, "although I have an uneasy feeling we should have. Something jangles deep in my mind. Let's find a computer and look up his personnel file," and the men headed down the hall.

Meanwhile, Kathryn and Chakotay rose early and spent a lazy morning, having a leisurely breakfast while sitting out on the deck and enjoying the sunrise. Kathryn inhaled the crisp fresh air and smiled.

"It is so wonderful to breathe real fresh air."

"It's pretty different than the air on a Starship or even that jail cell. You can even smell Jasmine in the air from somewhere."

"Uh huh," she responded as she inhaled deeply. Then she looked at Chakotay. "I wonder if Jason and Brad will have any success today."

"They are both very bright young men. It wouldn't surprise me if they came bounding in here and had reversed the sentences," said Chakotay with a laugh.

At that moment their incoming call beeped and Chakotay rose, went inside and answered. It was Tom, still angry over the decision and calling to see how they were.

From that point on Kathryn and Chakotay were deluged with calls all morning from people and crewmembers, expressing disappointment in the decision. It seemed they were online forever going over the same words and expressions of regret when finally the face of Jason appeared.

"Wow, I can't believe I finally got through!" exclaimed Jason.

"I'm sorry," said Kathryn. "It seems everyone is calling to express regret over the trial. Have you found out anything?"

"Actually we have been skulking around trying to find out some certain information and still haven't gone to the Judiciary to file our Grievance. I don't want to say much more on this line but are you and the Commander interested in lunch?" His expression clearly indicated he wanted her to say yes.

"Actually, that sounds very good, Jason."

"Good. I'll be by and pick you up and can you both be in uniform? This is official business."

"Lunch is official business?" she asked with a chuckle. "Actually we appreciate all the calls but I think we need a break. We will be ready," and both screens went black without any further words.

A short time later Jason landed his shuttle out front and just as he was about to knock on the door Kathryn opened it. After they settled in the shuttle Jason took off, said they would be picking up Brad, as he had to change his clothes. Seems during a snack break someone had bumped him and spilled orange juice all over his uniform. Jason kept laughing as he told this story until Kathryn and Chakotay were laughing also.

Shortly they stopped at a little white cottage and Brad came running out and hopped in the shuttle.

"Got it!" he said and without explanation sat down in the back and started tapping at the console at that seat.

"That's great," said Jason, as he looked down at his panel. "Okay, the coordinates are coming in. Pretty neat work, Brad, coming up with this," he added with a sly chuckle as he inserted the coordinates to their destination.

Kathryn looked back at Brad. "Sorry to hear about your accident with the orange juice."

Brad frowned for a moment and then grinned. "Oh, that was my excuse huh, Jason," he said with a laugh.

Both Kathryn and Chakotay turned and looked at Jason, who immediately turned a very deep beet red. "Well I had to say something and I didn't know if there were any 'ears' around," he stammered.

"Explanation Lt?" asked Kathryn.

"We are going to see if we can find a Captain Raymond. When we met Admiral Dodge, and that was an interesting meeting that I'll tell you about later, he gave us the name of a Captain Raymond and the only information we seem to be able to find is that he is on medical leave at the moment but is supposed to be a top expert in filing Grievances and Appeals regarding judicial decisions, which is mystifying to us being lawyers that we haven't really heard of him. At first we couldn't figure out why the Admiral was so secretive when he gave us that name and then it dawned on us that he couldn't be involved in helping us in any way, so he just snuck the name to us and left finding him our problem."

"Anyway," piped up Brad from the back, "I went home, and using my computer and priority code managed to find his home address. He has an apartment here in the city, but his home is listed outside of the city."

Kathryn chuckled. "Honey does everything seem sort of out of whack since we got home?"

Chakotay grinned. "Nothing has seemed right except being with you and sometimes I have to pinch myself on that."

At last they found the address but Jason frowned as he set the shuttle down among some trees. "Man when you said he lived out of the city, you meant it. He lives in a forest!"

They walked up a path to the door, but after rapping several times, did not receive any response. Then Chakotay mentioned hearing a noise at the back, so the foursome walked around the cabin and saw a man working on cutting a tree down. He had only a pair of sweat-stained shorts on, and. his black skin shone with perspiration as he swung his axe.

"Captain Raymond?" asked Brad.

"That's me," he grunted as he again swung the axe, the resultant ka-thunk biting into a very large tree. "Who's asking?"

"I'm Captain Jordan, sir."

Captain Raymond glanced back over his shoulder and let the axe drop to the ground as he saw all the uniforms.

"Sorry for being so flippant" he said with a smile that lit up his handsome face.

"I'm Captain Jordan, this is Lt. Armstrong and this is . . ."

"I know," said Raymond as he extended his hand. "Captain Janeway and Commander Chakotay. It's very nice to meet the infamous twosome," he said with a chuckle. "Let's go inside where it is cooler."

As he walked away he suddenly stepped between two trees, pulled on a rope and water came streaming down on him. He shuddered violently, grabbed a towel from a limb and headed for the door as he started wiping himself.

"Was that cold water Captain?" asked an incredulous Kathryn.

"Yes ma'am and I'm still not used to it, but it cools me off fast and then I shower when I get inside and that warms me up."

"You could just go in and shower couldn't you sir," asked Jordan.

"Sometimes, like now, I am not able to shower right away," he said as he opened the door and indicated for them to enter. "What brings you all way out here and for that matter, how did you find this address?"

"Have you heard about Captain Janeway's trial?" asked Jason, ignoring the last part of the question.

He grinned. "I not only heard about it but it was piped to my console every day so that I could watch and be up on everything that happened and was said."

At that announcement everyone looked shocked and he laughed. "I'm sort of the secret part of the judiciary and its part of my job. Usually that happens in my office at work, but I'm on leave at the moment, and as this was a very big trial, in that it concerned the Captain Janeway of lost in the Delta Quadrant fame, I naturally watched it every day. You two did very good," he said nodding to Jason and Brad.

"Sir if you are on medical leave maybe we shouldn't have bothered you," said Jason.

"First of all my name is Dan to you all. I'm not much a stickler for formality unless I'm at work or its official business. I'm just a plain old country boy. As to my leave I decided to go out on a short mission a while back, just to experience space flight, and as my luck would have it we experienced some difficulties and I escaped in a pod with the Captain. We made a rather rough landing as the pod itself was damaged, but we both lived, and I spent a month in Sick Bay and then they granted me another month for recuperation. I actually report back to work on Monday. Now, although I can guess, why did you make the trip way out here?

"Well sir, it concerns filing a Grievance regarding the sentence against Captain Janeway and Admiral . . ."

"NO names Lt!" thundered Raymond quickly. "If I'm right you were secretly given my name so let's not involve anyone else," he added softly.

"Yes sir," Brad said in an embarrassed tone. "Anyway when the decision was announced I got the distinct impression someone in Starfleet other than the presiding judge had a hand in it and so did Jason here . . ."

"I agree with that assessment and as I said, I saw the trial," said Dan quickly. "I am surprised and yet pleased Lt that someone so young and new to Starfleet picked up on that," he said interrupting Brad and looking at Jason. "The fact both of you sensed it pleases me."

"I sensed it immediately sir, uhm, Dan," replied Jason.

"Yes I saw you grab Captain Janeway and hustle her away to the corner. Rather suspected it was so you could tell her."

"May I interrupt for a moment and say for you to call me Kathryn and the same for Chakotay. Although we are all basically equal, except for Jason," she said with a laugh as he frowned. "I like this informality but to get to this case, I said to Chakotay last night, we must really be 'out of it' because neither he nor I got the drift of the between-the-lines innuendo."

Dan grinned. "I doubt many did Kathryn, maybe not even Starfleet themselves. They probably thought Jason hustled you to one side to calm you down because you did look upset." He looked back at Jason and Brad.

"Have you explained to Kathryn anything beyond the sentence?" he asked with a very serious expression.

Both Brad and Jason looked at one another, glanced at Kathryn and Chakotay and then back at Dan and shook their heads.

"Then please do so before we go any further," he said.

"Explain what?" asked Kathryn.

"There is a definite reason for that sentence and my saying the judge was coerced, Kathryn," said Jason softly.

"Such as, and what is with all this mystery? Will someone just please fully explain what is going on?"

"Well," said Brad, "you obviously wouldn't know, being lost in the Delta Quadrant, but there is, or at least we feel there is, a silent, sinister movement going on in Starfleet."

"Like what?" asked Chakotay, "And don't be so secretive or reluctant to say anything. If something is going on behind our backs we have the right to know."

"You're right, Chakotay," said Jason as both he and Brad nodded their heads. "Okay I feel we can trust you because you weren't here for the last seven years, but it appears there is a group that is taking over Starfleet. It is slow, silent and sinister, but attitudes and decisions have been changing. It's like a . . . like an octopus, with those tentacles slowly reaching out, wrapping around certain individuals and slowly pulling them into its domain."

"You can't be serious," exclaimed Kathryn. "In Starfleet?"

"Oh we are very serious," said Brad. "The problem is we can't name names, we don't know for sure who is in the group and who isn't, so you move very careful and watch what you say and to whom you say it to, which is a reason we were slipped Captain Raymond's name without it being said out loud."

"That's crazy! We haven't sensed that," exclaimed Kathryn, "And I'm sure with our instincts on high alert from everything we went through in the Delta Quadrant we would have."

"Not necessarily. You were euphoric on getting home. You didn't expect anything sinister and so you weren't looking," said Jason. "As Brad said, we don't have proof, but we know something is going on. It's one of the reasons they didn't want me to represent you. They wanted their own man to represent you and lose, big time. If that had happened you would be in jail right now instead of sitting here. Brad would have won because your lawyer wouldn't have done much to save your hide."

"But Admiral Paris warned me of the charges, and I trust him."

Both Brad and Jason looked at one another and then Jason said softly, "Don't be too sure, Kathryn."

"No way, not Owen!" she exclaimed. "I've known him virtually all my life! Admiral Paris would not be involved in trying to take over Starfleet for personal gain."

"Think about it. He was the one that warned you, he was the one who visited you in jail, he was the one who said what the sentence might be regarding you not being able to Captain a ship again," said Brad. "It was always Admiral Paris who was the messenger. Now he may not be one of them, but it's for sure they have him under their thumb!"

"I just can't believe that. Not Owen Paris!" said Kathryn with a dumbfounded expression. Turning to Chakotay she said, "This is all nonsense isn't it honey?"

He looked at her, looked at Brad and Jason, as well as Dan who had sat silently during all this conversation and then slowly Chakotay nodded his head.

"Everything fits now. Starting with what happened to me. The Cardassians attack my home world and Starfleet won't stop them, I resign and join the Maquis resistance and immediately I am a wanted man by Starfleet and then they insert Tuvok on my ship as a spy and send you after me." He looked at Jason. "How long has this supposed group been operating?"

"Around eight years from what Brad and I can piece together in our private conversations. They started real slow . . . real slow and all it took was one Admiral in a key position to start swaying opinion on decisions, so yeah, you were probably a target way back then."

"Why then doesn't someone do something?" asked Kathryn, still sitting with an incredulous look on her face.

"Like what Kathryn?" asked Jason. "We don't know names and it's for sure we can't walk up to some Admiral and say 'you are a guilty party'. We'd be in jail in nothing flat."

"But surely there is something someone can do!" she exclaimed.

"You are doing something, Kathryn," said Dan's soft voice.

"Like what? I just got court-martialed!"

"If I'm not mistaken your two lawyers have said they are going to file a Grievance. Now correct me if I'm wrong but that's going to step on some toes," he said with a smile.

"Yeah," chimed in Brad. "No one has ever filed a Grievance against Starfleet before. In fact no one has ever objected to anything Starfleet says or does, except maybe the Cardassians or the other aliens."

"So," said Dan looking at Brad and Jason. "Now that we have cleared the air and getting to the point of your visit, what exactly do you plan on doing and are you two working together on this?"

"Yes," said Jason quickly. "Brad feels if both of us are involved in whatever we do for Kathryn that it won't appear as her crying about the decision."

"Good thinking. So - just what are your plans Jason?"

"Well as we said, we want to file a Grievance on the severity of the decision but Chakotay brought up a point about how does the trial time affect the three month leave of absence they were granted after all the debriefings were finished. Do you know sir?"

"That was astute thinking Chakotay and it does present a problem. If you do not report to Starfleet, or make a call 'reporting in' they can claim you violated your probation, even though you haven't. I must be candid with all four of you. Starfleet, to me anyway, seems on a personal vendetta to get you Captain and . . ."

"Exactly our thought!" interrupted Jason.

Dan suddenly rose and Jason thought he was going to be reprimanded for interrupting him, but Dan threw his hands in the air and in a disgusted tone said, "Oh hell where are my manners? Daddy would surely give me a talking to. I have a pitcher of lemonade in the cooler. Would you all like a glass?"

Everyone smiled and said that sounded real good. "Good," he said with a grin. "Now I can smell myself so help yourself and if you would excuse me for five minutes I want to take a shower and then I can make some sandwiches and we can discuss the action I believe you should all take." That said he immediately walked out of the room.

Kathryn and Chakotay both rose and walked into the kitchen. While Kathryn opened cabinets and found four glasses Chakotay brought out the pitcher of lemonade, poured and then they took the refreshment into the front room. As they sat and sipped the cold beverage they heard water running at the back of the house and a deep baritone voice singing. Kathryn smiled as she listened to Dan sing.

Looking at Chakotay she said, "Well at least he can carry a tune!" Everyone laughed at Kathryn's inference that Chakotay sang in the shower, but off key.

A few moments later Dan came walking out, dressed in a light green polo shirt and tan shorts. For the first time Kathryn noted how slim and lithe he looked and that he was really quite tall. She figured he was about 6'4" and her eyes followed him as he walked into the kitchen.

"Ah ah, honey," said Chakotay as he noticed her admiring glance. "You are married to me, remember."

Kathryn blushed almost scarlet causing everyone to laugh. "Well a woman can still admire a nice physique of the opposite sex can't they," she asked as she started laughing.

"Not when you are married to me. I'm jealous," chided Chakotay.

"You don't have a jealous bone in your body, sweetheart," she responded as she reached out and squeezed his hand. Kathryn then looked over at Dan now standing in the kitchen door and said, "We heard you using water in your shower."

"Yes. The sonic showers are okay in town, but out here I prefer just good old fashioned soap and water."

"And you can carry a tune when you sing," added Kathryn with a sly look at Chakotay.

"Honey, are you saying I can't sing!" Chakotay asked with a feigned expression of dismay.

"You know you can't sing," she countered

Through all of this banter Dan had stood grinning and then as Kathryn once again looked up at him, he tipped his head. "As to your previous admiration, thank you but no thank you Kathryn. I am already spoken for." This caused more hilarity as Kathryn's face again turned beet red, and Dan, laughing quite loudly, headed back into the kitchen and started making some sandwiches.

As they ate, Brad and Jason discussed what their thoughts were on the sentence and an approximate timeline. It was generally agreed they should file a Grievance in about two weeks time, letting Starfleet think the decision was accepted. In the meantime they would have Kathryn call Starfleet on Monday morning to make her inquiries about the leave and trial time conflict.

Dan sat quietly during most of the discussion except for a question or two, which Kathryn silently noted were very astute as well as pointed. When Jason and Brad were finished, Dan wiped his mouth, placed his plate to one side, looked at everyone for a moment as if making a decision and then nodded his head.

"Okay I will help you on this Kathryn. In my opinion you have been and are being made an example for the rest of Starfleet and you don't deserve it. You did everything a Starfleet Captain should to get the ship and crew home and were successful at it. Simply because your heart took over when Chakotay made such a tremendous sacrifice for you, does not negate what you did. And I must insert here that I almost lost my breakfast when they showed those pictures. I gagged for several minutes," he said as he looked at Chakotay. Everyone remained quiet on that comment other than a nodding of the heads.

"However," he continued, "I will be strictly in the background on all of this and only offering advice on the steps you should take or helping with your wording on the grievance. If you agree to that and to not mention my name until I myself come forward, then we will move on."

"Is this going to give you a future problem, Dan?" asked Chakotay.

He shrugged his shoulders. "Starfleet has a bigger problem than me, but it might. I have wanted to spend full time here anyway, so if they disagree with my stepping up for you and fighting that sentence, it just means I get to move here sooner than later."

"And with your lady," added Kathryn.

Dan grinned mischievously. "My lady is this," he said sweeping his arms around the cabin. "I am a confirmed bachelor who loves the outdoors and not many women can put up with this lifestyle, which means I do as I please, come and go as I please and leave messes laying around if I please," he said as he laughed.

"Now I am jealous," grinned Chakotay, then he ducked Kathryn's incoming fist.

"Okay," said Dan. "I start to work Monday, so Jason and Brad I want you to hold off on your Grievance, but Kathryn I want you to call Starfleet the first thing Monday and ask your questions."

"Who do I contact?"

Dan grinned as he said, "Try Personnel first. You will get the run around but eventually you will be put in contact with the correct person."

"Why are you smiling like that," asked Kathryn.

"You will find out Monday," he chuckled. "Now I suggest you leave quietly. Head south for awhile and then turn east as you make a return flight so if anyone is aware of your shuttle it will appear you are returning from southeast of here." He stood and held out his hand to everyone, wished Kathryn good luck and then sighed as he stripped off his polo shirt.

"That tree and I still have some words," he said with a grin and headed for the door. "You know the way to your shuttle. I'll be in touch." He took about two steps and suddenly stopped. "I guess I better have your call number Kathryn."

"It would help wouldn't it? It's A5804," she said with a chuckle.

"A, huh? That still shows a little respect," he said with a grin. "Just remember I'm incognito in all of this," and with those words he swung open the door and disappeared outside. Before Jason lifted off, they could all hear the sound of the axe biting into that tree.

* * * *

At 0830 hours Monday, Kathryn placed a call to Starfleet Headquarters, and found out why Captain Raymond was smiling. She was given the royal run around, talking to about six different people and having to repeat her question to each of them. The only good thing about it, she grumped to Chakotay, is a lot of people knew she was trying to make contact. At last an Admiral's face appeared. He was scowling at first but upon seeing her face, smiled.

"Captain Janeway! I'm Admiral Weeks, Administrative Director of Personnel. I sort of have an idea of your question but it might have become scrambled. Could you please go over them again for me?"

"Be glad to Admiral. When Voyager returned to the Alpha Quadrant and following the debriefings, we were all given a three months leave of absence. However, as you undoubtedly know I was taken to trial and all the pre trial and trial itself covered one month. My question is two pronged: Do I still have a three months leave of absence or does this trial business cut into it, and when do I report to Starfleet to fulfill my probation?"

"Unfortunately Captain, the month involved with the trial cuts into that leave of absence for one thing."

"That seems hardly fair, Admiral," said Kathryn interrupting.

"Well maybe not, but your three year probation sentence actually negates the whole three month probation."

"It does?" asked Kathryn with a very surprised look on her face.

"Legally, yes it does. I will check with the Chief Legal Counsel, but I believe I am right."

"If so, when do I report to Starfleet then?"

"Technically you should have reported the next day, Captain."

"But that was impossible. My lawyer, Lt Armstrong was in Headquarters that day trying to get information along with an official transcript of the trial and was told it wouldn't be ready until late Friday, maybe even today. So how could I report when the paperwork wasn't even completed or for that matter I wasn't contacted by Starfleet telling me where and to whom to report?"

The Admiral gave a tight smile. "Well if you recall I did say technically. We won't consider the probation broken, then or now Captain. with your legal counsel following through on the sentence."

Kathryn wanted to snap off a sarcastic "That is nice of you," but held her tongue. Instead she smiled and replied, "Thank you, and really, as I previously mentioned, shouldn't Starfleet be officially contacting me on when to report?"

"I believe they will sometime today Captain Janeway. In the meantime I will make some inquiries on your behalf."

"Thank you Admiral. I will be waiting," she replied with a tight smile, and immediately tapped the button ending the call.

She looked back at Chakotay, who had been sitting right behind her in full view of the Admiral. "He was lying through his teeth Kathryn," he muttered with his jaw clenched.

"Oh you caught that too," she said with a chuckle. Just then their doorbell rang and when Chakotay opened the door he found a messenger standing there.

"I have a message for a Captain Janeway," he said in a small voice.

Kathryn immediately walked to the door; the lad handed the package to her and then turned and ran off. "Maybe this is our 'official' greeting," she mused as she opened the package and found a Padd. As she turned it on all she read was A5804A. She attempted to find out if there was anything else on the Padd but it was empty beyond that cryptic line.

Chakotay took it and frowned. "Let's see what happens when we insert it into our console," he said. After slipping it in the slot, the screen flickered and then a slow typing of a message came onscreen. It read 'Room A450, Starfleet Headquarters at 1400 hours. Arrive at 1405 and just walk in. Destroy this message' and the screen went black.

Kathryn and Chakotay stared at one another. "That's strange," she murmured.

"Also very spyish," he said.

"Spyish?" laughed Kathryn.

"Well I couldn't think of the word I wanted to use but you know what I meant," responded Chakotay with a laugh.

"Yes I did and we will do exactly as that message said, honey."

At 1404 they found the room, looked at one another, took a deep breath and with a determined nod to one another, opened the door and walked in. They stopped in their tracks. The room was full of Admirals!

"Captain Janeway! Commander Chakotay!" sputtered Admiral Weeks at the front of the table. "What are you doing here?"

"Well I thought we were invited," said Kathryn in a hesitant voice.

"Invited? By whom?" Weeks asked.

Kathryn was smart enough to know the message was clandestine, which meant the sender wanted to remain anonymous. "Well I really don't know. I have talked to so many people since Thursday and I just recalled a short time ago that we were supposed to be here today. I'm sorry we are late Admiral Weeks."

"Actually you are not late Captain, as you were not invited to this meeting. This is a Hearing by this panel to determine your probation situation and . . ."

"Well then by all means we should be here Admiral. If it concerns me, shouldn't I be in this hearing?"

"No you shouldn't" started Weeks but then a gentlemen who had remained leaning back during all the excitement, suddenly leaned forward.

"Actually, Admiral," began Captain Raymond, "It would legally serve Starfleet to have Captain Janeway at this Hearing. Then there can be no misunderstanding on what decisions are made. It is even possible she might have a suggestion or two."

Suddenly it dawned on Kathryn that Captain Raymond had been the sender of that message and she wanted to laugh out loud.

Weeks frowned at Raymond. "Legally she should be here and hear her fate determined?"

"Yes sir. That would be a correct thing to do."

"Very well," he said with a big sigh. "But Commander Chakotay cannot be here."

"On the contrary," said Kathryn quickly. "It was part of Admiral Dodge's decision," and she nodded to him after seeing him in a chair, "that Chakotay and I never be apart. So we are just keeping true to that sentence. Isn't that correct Admiral Dodge?"

Dodge, who had placed his hand just under his nose to cover his mouth during all this banter, leaned forward as he took his hand down. "Captain Janeway is correct Admiral. That was part of my ruling and she is just implementing it."

"But surely you didn't mean everything the Captain does!" thundered Weeks.

"As I look back on it retrospect, I'm afraid my ruling does cover everything," said Dodge quietly.

"I would have to agree with the Admiral after reading the decision," added Captain Raymond.

Weeks sighed again, even louder this time. "Very well. Captain, Commander you may take those two seats over there," he said pointing to two empty chairs at the end of the table. "I will introduce all the gentlemen," he added as Kathryn and Chakotay sat down.

The gentleman to my immediate left is Admiral Dodge, whom you know. To his left is Captain Raymond, the Chief Legal Counsel for Starfleet and an aide to Admiral Dodge.

So that's his position, thought Kathryn. "Next to him is Admiral Ross, who I think you know or have heard of. Beside him is Admiral Branson, Chief of Starfleet Operations, Space Division and then Admiral Kent, head of the Research section. To my right is Admiral Paris, who I know you know very well and next to him is Admiral Spencer the Chief Executive of the Academy, next to him is Admiral Scanlon head of all Review Committee situations and next to you is Admiral Stoddard, who is currently in charge of downloading all the information on Voyager's data base."

As each name was said there was a nodding of the Admiral's head while Kathryn and Chakotay smiled and said their name.

"Now, we had just started discussing your situation when you barged . . . came in," said Weeks. "As to a possible Ambassadorship we find the only position open is Ambassador to Cardassia, and Admiral Paris had just said he didn't think that was wise."

"I would have to agree with Admiral Paris," said Kathryn quickly, wanting to have input in this meeting. "I am quite familiar with the Cardassians and knowing their mental makeup I'm afraid if I were sent as Ambassador they would be offended, considering the fact I have gone through a Court Martial and sentenced to three years probation."

"Exactly why I was objecting," chimed in Admiral Paris. "Well stated, Captain," he said with a smile in her direction.

"All right. The next possibility was Mediator for disputes, both internal, national and within the Federation. However, there are no current disputes so that eliminates that for the moment, leaving helping Admiral Stoddard in classifying Voyager's information."

"Actually, there is another possibility," said Kathryn.

Weeks frowned but nodded for her to speak.

"What about teaching at the Academy?"

A loud uproar from Weeks, Ross, Spencer, Branson, Scanlon and even Stoddard followed, as they all seemed to be negative on this. The only quiet Admirals were Paris, Kent and Dodge.

"What would the students think, having a felon teaching a class at the Academy," sputtered Spencer.

"A felon?" gasped Kathryn.

"Yes, you are a felon Captain. You have been convicted of several counts, which makes you a criminal," said Weeks.

"Actually," said Captain Raymond leaning forward once more, "Felon is a harsh term. She was convicted yes, but other than being held during the trial, was not sentenced to prison. She is still a Captain, but a Captain under a probationary term, with that term to be filled working for Starfleet. Following that she is returned to full time status and availability for missions once again."

"Are you sure about that Captain," asked Branson.

"Quite sure, Admiral," replied Raymond with a soft smile.

"I think we would have a lot to contribute to the student's knowledge," said Chakotay, speaking up for the first time. "We have had experiences in the Delta Quadrant, and met aliens, that no one in Starfleet beyond the crew of Voyager knows anything about. Just think about teaching the students about the meeting of aliens other than the Klingons, the Romulans, Ferengi and Cardassian, whom they already know about."

"Yes," said Kathryn. "And what about adapting Starfleet vessels to new and unknown alien technology? The students would learn a great deal from our experiences."

"I think the Captain and Commander have a point," said Captain Raymond.

"This is not a legal question, Captain, so I don't think we need to hear from you," snapped Weeks as he glanced at Admiral Brunson.

"You know," said Admiral Ross, "After thinking about it and hearing the Captain and Commander, I'm inclined to change my mind and agree with them. It would be a great learning experience for the cadets."

"But classes start next week and schedules are already printed. There isn't anyway we can change or add a class now, let alone notify students of its availability," said Admiral Spencer.

"Oh I think there is," interrupted Captain Raymond, who immediately looked at Weeks and said, "And this is a legal answer."

"I'm sure there must be a way, Admiral," said Kathryn, trying to take the ire of Admiral Weeks away from Raymond.

"What about advertising it as a voluntary, no credit class in every classroom the first two days?" asked Chakotay. We could teach a class once a week, call it Experiences in the Delta Quadrant, or whatever you decide and in the meantime work with Admiral Stoddard on Voyager's records."

"Again the 'we' business. Are they both serving this probation Admiral Dodge," asked Weeks.

Dodge grinned. "It appears I sentenced them both in that ruling, but I do think they would prefer to be doing things together, would you not?" he asked as he looked at them.

"Definitely, we would like to do this work together," said Kathryn immediately.

"I think the class, as well as working with Admiral Stoddard, answers our question gentlemen," said Admiral Paris. "When something else comes up, we can change their duties."

Kathryn grinned inwardly at the word 'their' used by Paris. At least he wasn't fighting Chakotay and she doing things together, and she still didn't feel he was involved in any subversive group. She did, however, have strange vibes emanating from this room.

"Very well," said Weeks. "Can you arrange for the announcement to be made in the first two days of classes, Admiral Spencer?"

"Yes. We would just have to put a memo in each instructor's box. Which day, time, etc. would that be?" he asked looked pointedly at Kathryn.

"That would be up to you Admiral Spencer," purred Kathryn with a sweet smile.

"All right I will let you know. In the meantime you have less than a week and the class content must be determined. I need to have that on my desk no later than Wednesday, as time is short."

"That makes it even shorter for us Admiral. Today is Monday, so that leaves only tomorrow to get it done," said Kathryn.

"With all the experiences you had and 'adapted' to, I would think it would be easy," snapped Spencer.

Kathryn felt the blood rise to her face, but smiled, nodded her head and said, "You will have it on Wednesday then Admiral."

"Now that that is settled, the question of the legality of cutting off the three month leave of absence should be discussed," interjected Captain Raymond.

Admiral Weeks rolled his eyes. "I think if someone is convicted of a crime, that automatically ends the leave of absence," he countered.

"Not until it is officially rescinded by Starfleet, Admiral," said Raymond. "May I suggest, and it is agreed by everyone that Captain Janeway suffered through seven years of stress, that the leave be cancelled on the first, allowing her the rest of this month off. She can still teach the class during that time as it is only once a week, and then report to Admiral Stoddard on the first. This would not only be a kind gesture on the part of Starfleet, but also prevent any misunderstanding of 'you said three months' 'but you were convicted which negates it', kind of legal problem."

"I think that is an excellent suggestion, Captain," said Admiral Dodge. "After all, what kind of people would everyone think us, if we just kept slapping this woman down after what she has accomplished."

A murmur of assent was heard and it was decreed that she be allowed the rest of the month for leave, teach the class, content and time to be determined, and then report to Admiral Stoddard on the first.

As everyone filed out Admiral Paris called to her.

"I'm sorry for all this, Kathryn," he said in an apologetic tone.

"It wasn't your fault Owen," she replied, as she looked deep into his eyes trying to see . . . something. "Who is that Captain Raymond? He seems to have a real level head on his shoulders and isn't cowed by all the brass in the room."

Paris laughed. "Captain Raymond marches to his own drummer, but he is absolutely brilliant, especially in legal matters. He has saved Starfleet's butt more than once, that's why everyone allows him his say. So what are you going to do now?"

Kathryn laughed. "Go home and work on the class content that is due on Wednesday!"

Paris shook his head. "Admiral Spencer is hard-headed, but he is just looking out for the cadets. I see no harm in your teaching that class and he will come around. Well, I have to go. Good luck to you," and he immediately walked off without another word.

Kathryn and Chakotay started walking down the corridor. From behind a soft voice was heard. "Don't look back, but you did a heck of a job in there. Good luck!" It was Raymond and he walked on past them, gave a cursory glance and a nod of his head and continued on down the corridor without saying a word.

Both Kathryn and Chakotay had a hard time holding back their laughter.

By evening Admiral Spencer had called and said they would be teaching the class every Wednesday at 1500 hours. However one problem is that only the auditorium was available with a capacity of 500 and that it would not be cost effective with only a few students, so they had their work cut out for them. Kathryn said she understood. Both she and Chakotay worked hard on setting up the class curriculum, got their outline into Spencer on time and then eagerly awaited the first class.

Only ten students showed up, much to their disappointment. Three-fourths the way through the class Admiral Spencer walked in and stood at the top looking down on the situation. He finally came down to floor level and pulled Kathryn aside.

"Captain Janeway this is an unacceptable number!"

"I realize that Admiral. You did send out word in the first two days did you not?"

"Of course, but we just can't have a mere ten students in a class. I'm afraid I will have to cancel it."

"Please Admiral. Give us one more week. How many students are needed?"

"You need at least one hundred in a room this size to be cost effective, Captain."

"But Chakotay and I are not reimbursed for this service, Admiral. It is part of my probation." She hesitated a moment as he stared at her but not answering. Then deciding to agree with him, she said, "But I do see your point. Please, give us one more week. If we don't have one hundred students here next week then cancel the class. I well understand your feelings."

Reluctantly Admiral Spencer agreed and after he left, one young man stood and said, "Captain Janeway. I know I shouldn't have been eavesdropping, but did the Admiral say you needed one hundred more students to keep this class?"

"Yes Cadet. I'm afraid we might end up canceling."

"Tell me," said Chakotay. "The class was supposed to be announced in every class the first two days. Is that how you heard about it?"

"No sir. Dave there," and he pointed to another young man, "told me about it. It wasn't announced in any of my classes."

Kathryn was surprised. "None? And when did you hear about it?" she asked Dave.

"It was announced in my first class and then not ever again, ma'am," he replied.

"The rest of you, was it announced in your classes?"

A chorus of 'No's" was heard. They had all heard it from Dave.

"I see," said Kathryn as she folded her arms across her chest and looked at Chakotay.

"Can you people do us a favor?" asked Chakotay. When they all nodded their heads he asked them, "Can you spread the word amongst your friends and also somehow stand up in a class and mention it?"

Everyone said they would gladly spread the word and Kathryn dismissed the class.

The following week when Kathryn and Chakotay entered the class, they stopped, their mouths dropped open and they stared. The auditorium was three-fourths full!

Admiral Spencer slipped in at one point and quickly sat down in the rear of the auditorium. Near the end, when both Kathryn and Chakotay had their backs to the students setting up a graphic, he quietly left and as he walked down the corridor he shook his head. That had been very interesting. So interesting in fact, he had stayed much longer than he intended. Plus there were so many more students! Word had somehow gotten out and the students seemed very interested in what was being discussed. Again he shook his head and wondered why it was that somebody wanted them to fail at this class.

At the end of the session Kathryn turned to Chakotay as the students filed out. "That was exhilarating, Chakotay. And they had such brilliant, intuitive questions! I still don't understand why so few were here last week, however."

"I think I can tell you why. I'm willing to bet only one instructor got the word and then he was stopped after the first morning class. Kathryn they are doing everything in their power to make you look bad and thereby justify their court martial of you."

"You just might be right my dear husband," she said grimly. "I think it's about time to talk to Jason about filing our grievance."

However after leaving the classroom they made their first stop at Admiral Paris' office. As Kathryn knew Owen she wanted to first discuss the matter with him. They were admitted after he learned it was Kathryn and he sat quietly and listened to their complaint.

"I'm sorry Kathryn. I don't know why word didn't get out. I don't believe Admiral Stoddard was responsible, however."

"So who was Owen? Admiral Weeks seems antagonistic towards me. Maybe it was he!"

Paris shook his head and with a sad expression said softly, "No, it's not his fault," and then tapped on his console. The face of Weeks appeared and he listened quietly as Paris explained what had happened to Kathryn and Chakotay's class.

Weeks frowned and looked furtively not only at Kathryn a moment, but also around his surroundings before he looked back at Owen and said, "This is really going too far. They are being too aggressive, Owen. Maybe . . . maybe if we contacted them or some of the others and got a group meeting, they might . . ." He then shrugged his shoulders.

"Let's meet for dinner tonight James and talk it over. Say 2200 hours at the usual place?"

Weeks nodded his head. "We have to do something. But I can't do it tonight. Tomorrow is fine if it's all right with you. Should we invite anyone else?"

Paris shook his head. "No. Let's just you and I talk, and tomorrow night is fine, but it has to be late."

Weeks nodded, his brow quite furrowed and said, "I'll see you then."

Admiral Paris then told Kathryn and Chakotay he would look into it, but as they were still uneasy about the situation she and Chakotay decided to talk to Jason also, and headed for the Legal Affairs office and inquired about his availability. A young Ensign led them down a corridor and then indicated a small cubicle. Jason looked up as they stepped to the door and broke into a big grin.

"Kathryn! Chakotay! How good to see you. Come in, if you can squeeze in," he said with a laugh about the size of his office. "How are things going with your class?"

"That's what we are here to talk about Jason," said Kathryn, as Jason shut the door. She then explained what happened last week in the attendance and Admiral Spencer's ultimatum, and the difference in today's attendance, along with Chakotay's possible explanation.

Jason frowned and then tapped his console. Captain Jordan's face quickly appeared and Jason asked him to come to his office. Brad soon stepped in and grinned at Kathryn and Chakotay, but that soon changed to a deep frown as Jason explained what Kathryn had told him.

Bradley sighed. "I think you are right, Chakotay. I think they want Kathryn to fail at that class. Somebody really wants to punish you and by failing they could crow about it to the media and justify the court martial. Tell you what. I'll see if I can contact Captain Raymond and talk to him about it. In the meantime continue your normal routine," and he nodded at Jason, told him he would be in touch and left.

Later that day Jason contacted them at home, and said 'it was being worked on' and to just keep teaching the class.

Right after that call they got a message from Starfleet telling them to report the next day to Admiral Spencer at Headquarters for assignment to assist in classifying and downloading Voyager's data base to the appropriate records department.

Both felt the assignment was one week early from what had been agreed upon but decided to not make waves at this time and just be 'good little Starfleeters.'

Upon reporting the next morning, both found it extremely interesting as they began to assist with downloading Voyager's data, and memories of the events flooded their minds.

* * * *

Their third class was mind numbing. The auditorium was completely full and there was a long line of Cadets wanting either entry or to be put on a waiting list. Word had definitely gotten out about the class, and obviously not from the teachers but rather by word of mouth from the cadets themselves. Kathryn and Chakotay were elated!

However their elation was soon to end. That evening Jason and Brad contacted them and requested them to come over to Jason's house. Upon arriving, Jason presented the papers drawn up for the Grievance, mentioned Captain Raymond had corrected and reworded a few sentences and then suggested she call a press conference for the morning. After reading the statement, Kathryn agreed now was the time to take action.

The following morning at 0900 hours the Press Room was full to overflowing and full of loud conversation. As Kathryn, Chakotay, Jason and Brad entered and walked behind the table set with speakers, the room became deathly quiet.

"Good morning ladies and gentlemen," began Kathryn. "As a matter of being sure you know everyone, I am Captain Kathryn Janeway, the gentleman to my right is my husband Commander Chakotay. To my left is my lawyer Lt Jason Armstrong and beside him is Captain Bradley Jordan. As most of you know, three weeks ago I was put through a court martial and received a probationary sentence of three years because I married my First Officer. There were other charges, of course, but only as a superfluous, flowery means to justify their primary complaint. It was obvious then and even more obvious now, that the court martial was simply a means of publicly punishing me for marrying Chakotay. I have waited three weeks while I evaluated, watched and discussed this situation with my legal counsel. As you can see Captain Jordan, who was the Prosecutor in my trial, has joined us, signifying his agreement with our assessment of the situation." A low murmur within the media was heard.

"The purpose of this press conference is that I am announcing today that I will be filing a Grievance against Starfleet for an unfair and biased decision, resulting in a punitive action of disallowing me to perform as Captain on a Starship for a minimum of three years and thereby denying me the ability to work at what I love and what Starfleet trained me for, as well causing undeserved physical and emotional stress.

"I want it understood I do not blame Admiral Dodge, who was the presiding judge in my trial. It is my opinion he was coerced in his ruling. I also want to say to the wonderful students in the class Chakotay and I are conducting, that I am very sorry for what will likely happen because I am filing this Grievance. There will be undue pressure upon you to withdraw from the class, and I am sorry you will have to face that. To those of you who do withdraw I understand completely.

"Upon Voyager's return from the Delta Quadrant, I was naive enough to believe all the hoopla, but it was soon obvious Starfleet had changed in the seven years we were away, and I'm sorry to say, not for the better. There appears to be an element at work behind the scenes that has subversive overtones. As you know, I was born and raised in Starfleet and this element is very disturbing to me, and I do not take this action of filing a grievance against Starfleet lightly. It has been a very hard decision to make.

"That is all I have to say at the moment and I'm very sorry that at this particular time I cannot take any questions or give any fuller explanation, per my legal advice. Thank you all for coming."

The group stood and quickly headed for the door as shouted questions rained down on them from the stunned press. It was unheard of for a Captain to not only file against the almighty Starfleet, but to say there was an 'element' at work behind the scenes that was very disturbing! The one question that was heard again and again was "What do you mean subversive element, Captain?"

Following the official filing of the Grievance, Kathryn and Chakotay were escorted home by a security shuttle, with some of the press in hot pursuit. This was sensational news and some would do anything to come up with a story above and beyond Kathryn's announcement.

The following morning was the day of their class and both Kathryn and Chakotay were nervous about it. They felt certain there would be fewer students today but when they arrived in the area, the corridor was empty and didn't have any cadets loitering around, waiting for class to start.

As they drew near the auditorium doors they observed a sign tacked to the door and as they read it they were stunned to see, "Class has been cancelled due to Captain Janeway's reassignment."

Kathryn's eyes squinted and she frowned as she read it again and then looked at Chakotay. "What reassignment are they talking about?" Chakotay shrugged his shoulders and with an angry expression clouding his handsome face suggested they go see Admiral Spencer.

They happened to spot him in the corridor as they neared his office and called to him. Kathryn then demanded to know why the class was cancelled.

Admiral Spencer looked surprised. "I merely did what I had been ordered to do, Captain. May I ask where you have been reassigned?"

"That's just it Admiral Spencer, I haven't been reassigned – at least not to my knowledge! No one from Starfleet has contacted me at all."

Admiral Spencer appeared shocked and puzzled by that and Kathryn turned to Chakotay. "I think we better inquire further. Let's go see Admiral Weeks or Admiral Dodge." They both turned and left Admiral Spencer standing in the corridor wondering what was happening.

On the way they decided to check in with either Admiral Dodge or Captain Raymond first. Those two appeared to be about the only friendly people around other than Jason and Brad Jordan. Upon entering Captain Raymond's office they almost bumped into him. He was just leaving to see Admiral Dodge, and after hearing about the class and 'reassignment' situation, decided to have the two come with him.

With Admiral Dodge's office only two doors away from Raymond's they reached it almost immediately and were quickly ushered in. Once again they explained the note about the cancellation and reassignment.

"I do not know anything of your reassignment, Captain," he responded with a frown.

Just then there was a hurried rapping on the door and even before Admiral Dodge could call out "Enter" the Admiral's receptionist, Ensign Smith, stepped in and had a shocked look on his face.

"Have you heard the terrible news, Admiral? It's unbelievable!"

"Slow down Ensign!" barked Dodge. "Heard what?"

The Ensign braced. "Sir, Starfleet has just released a public bulletin. I thought you would be one of the first to be informed. Haven't you heard about Admiral Weeks being murdered last night and Admiral Paris critically injured?"

"What!" chorused Admiral Dodge along with Raymond, Kathryn and Chakotay.

Dodge immediately stood, but was momentarily quiet, a shocked look on his face as he stared at the Ensign. Finally he said, "Explain, where you heard this Ensign."

"As I said sir, Starfleet released a bulletin and also it was just on the public news a few minutes ago, sir. They were apparently coming out of a restaurant very late last night when an unidentified shuttle landed right in front of them, the hatch lifted and phaser fire erupted from inside. That's what the witnesses say anyway. Admiral Weeks was killed outright but Admiral Paris reacted just enough that he didn't get a direct shot in the chest. However, he is in critical condition at the hospital."

Dodge looked at Dan Raymond. "Call Security, and get a squad over there immediately, and then call for my shuttle. "I'm going to the hospital."

"May we go with you Admiral?" quickly asked Kathryn. Admiral Dodge merely nodded as he rushed for the door. Captain Raymond, after telling Security to report immediately at the hospital, ran up and joined them.

"A small security squad of two men is already there Admiral, but per your instructions I have ordered a full squad to go there and as we speak they are being gathered and will be there in just a few moments. Also they are getting your shuttle and it will be at the hangar door." The Admiral merely nodded, deep in thought about this tragedy as he kept up his long striding, fast pace.

At the hospital they hurried along the corridor towards Admiral Paris' room. From the other direction Kathryn saw two Security men were already in front of a door. Admiral Dodge reached the door first and burst through, totally ignoring the Security Guard trying to stop him and then slammed to a halt, almost resulting in Kathryn, Chakotay and Captain Raymond bumping into him.

Admiral Paris lay quietly on the bio-bed, skin as white as the sheet covering him and the monitors above his bed barely registering. A doctor was bending over him.

Admiral Dodge finally moved to the side of the bed opposite the doctor and when at last the doctor looked up the Admiral immediately asked, "Condition?"

"Critical, but I think I will be able to save him," he said bluntly.

"Is he conscious? Can he talk?" the Admiral asked with an urgent tone. "It is imperative we speak to him doctor. It is absolutely necessary! Can you revive him for just a few moments?"

The doctor frowned and sighed, rolled his eyes and muttered about Admirals and then said, "I can revive him, but briefly, Admiral - very briefly."

"Do it," commanded Dodge and the doctor injected a hypo on Paris' neck. Shortly he moaned and Dodge bent down over him immediately.

"Owen, who did this to you?"

Owen's eyes flickered and then opened. "Chester?" he whispered.

"Yes Owen. Who did this to you? We need to know!"

"Didn't see anyone," he said in a voice that could barely be heard. "They stayed in the shuttle and had dark clothes and face masks on."

Chester Dodge leaned further and whispered into Paris' ear, "Owen who is the group? I know you know . . . who are they, man? We have to know this!"

Owen looked at him with fear-laden eyes. "What do you mean?" he whispered

"You know damn well what I mean, Owen. Give us the names!"

Owen closed his eyes and swallowed. "James?" he asked.

"He's dead Owen," said Dodge bluntly, "So don't try to be a hero and hold back. Tell me those names so we can stop this monstrous . . . these bastards!"

Anger seemed to rise in Owen's eyes upon hearing of James Weeks' death and he nodded his head. "I only know a few. They are Branson, Kent and Stoddard. There is another but he has kept his face hidden and all we heard was his first name, Richard and you know there are quite a few Richard's."

Dodge looked up at Captain Raymond, but noted he was already recording those names on a Padd. Just then Jason and Brad walked in, accompanied by Lt Sutton, Chief of Security.

"Lt Sutton," said Raymond, turning to him. "How big a security force did you bring?"

"I have ten men sir, all outside the door. I notice two other security men there so we are not sure of our orders, sir. That is why I came in."

Admiral Dodge became quiet for a moment as Captain Raymond looked at him. "Not enough," the Admiral finally barked. He motioned Raymond to the far side of the room and Kathryn and Chakotay watched intently as Admiral Dodge seemed to be doing most of the talking, with Dan adding something periodically. Finally they turned and walked back to the bed.

"Lt. Sutton, I want you to do several things. First I want you to go over the ten men you brought with you with a fine toothcomb. Who do you trust? Who are absolutely your best, most trustworthy men? Then I want you to evaluate those two that were initially here and I also want you to increase your force to eighteen men, using the same criteria, so you can rotate them on a twenty-four hour watch – four outside the door and two inside this room at all times. Whether you use any of the previous men is up to you. You are in charge of this Lt. and I expect you to be on duty most of the time. You must protect Admiral Paris!"

Kathryn standing to one side admired the way Admiral Dodge was taking charge and being decisive and firm in his orders.

"Yes sir," said Lt Sutton. "I will go outside now and think this over, but I might need a console Admiral."

Dodge looked at the Doctor. "Give this man a station to work from. Additionally Doctor, I want the rooms on each side of Admiral Paris to be vacated so the security force can bunk there and be quickly available should the need arise."

"Now wait a minute, Admiral. That means we have to move patients!"

"Then move them doctor," said Dodge vehemently. Turning he looked at Kathryn. "You are in danger too, Captain Janeway. That Grievance you filed yesterday puts you on their list as well and is really stirring the pot."

"I'm afraid I don't understand, Admiral," began Kathryn.

"Captain Raymond will explain it to you. Hide them Dan, in a good safe place," he said sharply to Raymond.

"Sir," said Raymond in response. "I must submit that you are also in danger, what with you going against their wishes for Captain Janeway's sentence."

"I'm not important enough for them, Dan."

"I beg to differ, Admiral. You went directly against their wishes! Admiral Weeks is only an indication of how far they are now willing to go, sir!"

"Who is 'they'?" asked Chakotay suddenly.

"And is this in relation to our conversation, Dan?" asked Kathryn.

"You heard Admiral Paris name some names Captain. They appear to be part of that group that is starting to run Starfleet down a very dark path, with murder now showing just how far they are willing to go," said Captain Raymond, more to let Admiral Dodge know that Kathryn had previously been informed

Suddenly everything was crystal clear in Kathryn's mind. At the cabin her mind had been slightly benumbed by that conversation, but now she nodded as she again thought back to that conversation, the charges in her trial and how meek Admiral Paris had seemed. But he had now been a target, which meant to her he was not really part of that group. Then, there was the class situation and her supposed reassignment. Fully cognizant now of the entire picture and with hindsight kicked into full view, she realized it was more than just a subversive element; it was something extremely sinister and evil and not afraid to now include murder to accomplish their goals of taking over Starfleet. Her eyes took on a hard look as she said, "Yes, it's all very clear now."

"Chester," said Owen Paris weekly. The Admiral turned and went to him.

"Yes?"

"Last night Jim and I met for a very late dinner to discuss what we could do. Only Jim and I knew about our meeting, as we both said we wouldn't inform anyone else, but the fact the shuttle showed up . . ."

"We have more than the Admiral's you named, involved," finished Chester. "It's logical. They need some flunkies down in the ranks to push their directives. There might even be a few more Admirals'," he mused quietly.

Lt Sutton walked back into the room. "Sir I have dismissed two of my men as well as the original group, so if I am correct I will have to pick up ten more men."

"Reason for the dismissal, Lt?" asked Captain Raymond.

"I can't really explain it sir. Just a hunch maybe, but I found myself not trusting them."

"It pays to trust your instincts, Lt. Set up the eight you have and pick your remaining security force," said Raymond. Turning to Admiral Dodge he said, "We need to set up protection for you, sir. Maybe a room somewhere here in the hospital under a different name?"

"Captain, I don't . . ."

"Sir," interrupted Raymond. "We need you to run this investigation. You can't do it if you are dead!"

Dodge smiled and looked at Kathryn and Chakotay, "See what I have to put up with in this man?"

"I would say you are in good hands, Admiral," said Chakotay with a grin.

"All right, but I want you as my assistant, Dan, and I also want you two, Lt Armstrong and Captain Jordan," he said to the two gentlemen who had been standing quietly to one side. "After all you are the ones that started this by filing that Grievance. This group suddenly felt their power being questioned and couldn't stand for that."

"Us sir? You were the one who left clues for Brad and me to hear," stammered Jason.

"All the more reason to have you two on my staff," he barked in a no nonsense tone. "Find me a room, Doctor and also, doctor, you are the only one who will be admitted to this room to treat Admiral Paris," he added while looking at Lt. Sutton to make sure he understood that order. Sutton merely nodded.

"Me?" he spluttered. "I need a nurse! And what about a night nurse? We can't be on duty twenty-four hours a day, Admiral! And also, I have other patients!"

"All right then. Select two nurses that you trust implicitly Doctor, and I can't emphasize that statement enough, and then you three will be the ONLY persons to enter this room other than these people here." He turned to Lt Sutton who was sitting on the other side of the room now studying a Padd.

"Lt?"

Sutton looked up. "Sir?"

"Study these faces along with the doctor. They are the only ones to be allowed in this room, plus two nurses and once they are selected the same applies. Know their faces. No one else beyond the two nurses, the doctor and this group will be allowed in this room. Do I make myself clear, Lt?"

"Yes sir," said Sutton and he stood and carefully, and for extended minutes, looked at the faces of Admiral Dodge, Captain's Raymond and Jordan, Lt Armstrong and Kathryn and Chakotay. He then turned and studied the doctor. Satisfied, he looked at Admiral Dodge. "No one admitted to this room but this group, sir."

"Good, Lt. Also once the doctor selects his two nurses, know them! Now I have to get back to my office for a moment. I suggest we go together and keep the shuttles together en-route. I'm not sure if safety in numbers even applies when two of us are targets," he said smiling at Kathryn, "but it makes me feel better. Dan? Do you have a place in mind for Kathryn and Chakotay?"

Dan nodded. "Yes sir I sure do." He then motioned Jason and Brad over and whispered to them for a few moments and then satisfied, nodded to Admiral Dodge and the group started to troop out of the room and head for Jordan's and the Admirals shuttles. On the way they kept a tight formation of Captain Raymond's shuttle, with Admiral Dodge on board, and Captain Jordan's shuttle, with Jason, Kathryn and Chakotay. With the murder of Admiral Weeks and the attempted murder of Admiral Paris, they were all very concerned that even with that precaution both shuttles might be torpedoed out of the sky

Upon reaching Headquarters, they stopped at the main door, turned the shuttles over to the attendants to park in their individual stalls, and walked in the doors, making sure everyone saw them all arrive at Headquarters. Upon entering, Dodge and Raymond headed for the Admiral's office while Jason and Brad had Kathryn and Chakotay accompany them. The scheme had been formulated on the way and they headed for the mess hall. Each ordered a cold drink and then stepped back into the corridor.

The moment the corridor was empty Brad hustled Kathryn and Chakotay to a room two doors down, almost shoving them in and then turned and quickly rejoined Jason.

Brad then stepped to a Communications panel on a nearby wall and initiated contact with Admiral Dodge.

"Admiral, Lt Armstrong and I are at the mess hall having a cold drink. Did you need us to come to your office?"

"That's not necessary Lt. Captain Raymond is here. Knowing you and your yen for sweets, how is your 'dessert'?"

Brad grinned. "It is particularly satisfying." Then knowing this was an open channel, and hoping the Admiral understood that satisfying referred to the hiding of Kathryn and Chakotay, he added, "Have you heard anymore about Admiral Paris, sir?"

"No I haven't, which I have to assume means he is holding his own. Now you will have to excuse me Captain. We are very busy at the moment. Captain Raymond has requested that after he completes his business with legal appointments, I give him the rest of the day off, so we have a lot to do in the next few minutes."

"Lucky man to have such an understanding Admiral," said Brad.

"As long as he understands that," he replied with a slight chuckle and the screen went black.

Brad looked at Jason and whispered, "Captain Raymond is getting ready to leave. Things are set." After about two minutes Jason slipped into the room with Kathryn and Chakotay.

"Everything is set. Captain Raymond will be moving for his shuttle shortly. We have to leave." The foursome moved to the door, Jason peered out and seeing no one in the corridor they all stepped out and started their trek for the shuttle bay. Part way there, Brad moved on ahead, leaving the group. Only a few people were met on the way, and Kathryn and Chakotay deliberately smiled and said hello as they walked by. Then they managed to get on the Turbo Lift to the Bay without anyone else being on it.

As they neared the designated floor Jason punched the Stop button and they quietly waited. Before a minute had passed, Jason's Comm badge chirped once. He waited. Then it chirped again and he immediately punched Start, the lift moved for a moment and then stopped and the doors slid open. Again he cautiously peered into the corridor, nodded and they all moved quickly towards the Shuttle Bay doors.

Almost immediately a shuttle appeared, its hatch open and so close to the building it was almost scraping the side. Jason, Kathryn and Chakotay immediately hopped in after only one quick step.

"This isn't your shuttle Brad," said Chakotay quickly.

"No I changed to a fleet shuttle, which took the attendant by surprise. Didn't want my known shuttle to be tracked by any 'known' means," he said with a grim smile. Brad slowly glided to the end of the Hangar with his hatch open, but with Kathryn and Chakotay standing in the back and thus not seen. They had already been informed of the next action to take place and were ready.

Brad turned into an area termed 'Officer's Shuttles', a shuttle up ahead was seen moving out of its stall and turned toward them, its hatch slowly opening. As it drew abreast Jason nodded and said, "Sensors show it's all clear," and then yelled, "Go!"

Kathryn and Chakotay, who was holding Kathryn's hand, ran to the hatch and leaped into the other shuttle, both hatches immediately closed and the shuttles moved off.

"Lie down and stay in the back you two," called out Dan from the pilot's seat. The shuttle moved for the doors, glided through and then shot up into the air. A few moments later Brad's shuttle, with Jason still on board followed, but turned in another direction.

"Admiral Dodge," hailed Captain Raymond. "I am heading for my first legal appointment. If you need me for anything give a hail and I will respond shortly."

"Thank you Captain, but I think we accomplished everything I needed. See you in the morning."

"All right, Dan," said Kathryn from her position in the rear of the shuttle. "This isn't your shuttle like that wasn't Brad's shuttle. Is all this cloak and dagger necessary?"

"Indeed it is Kathryn. I'm sure you played 'games' with various aliens out there in the Delta Quadrant, to be on the safe side?"

She smiled and nodded her head, recalling Kashyk, and then said. "But may I ask how the Admiral is getting from Headquarters to the Hospital without people seeing him do that. His life is in more danger than mine."

Dan chuckled. "The Admiral has arranged to be transported from his office to the room that has been arranged for him at the hospital, and he has a friend that he feels he can trust implicitly. To make sure this friend is really a friend, the Admiral has asked him to join him for what he called "a little R&R" and the man agreed. He will be surprised to end up in a hospital room, and will basically be incommunicado until we are sure we can trust him."

Kathryn laughed. "You trust him implicitly and yet you don't."

"That's the picture. I'm not sure I trust you two," he said with a grin as he turned the shuttle in a southerly heading.

"Can't they trace the Admiral to the hospital?" asked Kathryn.

"I suppose they could, but at the moment the Admiral is being transported, the hospital is also transporting about four other people, albeit from a different department. Hopefully he will just blend in, plus he has placed a recording on his com line that will click on in about thirty-five minutes and ask his Ensign to immediately go pick up some legal packets, which is true, and in the meantime he is going out for lunch and for him to place the packets on his desk."

Kathryn laughed. "Very elaborate, but it does seem to cover him going to the hospital."

"So with the Admiral disappearing and all this spy stuff, where is our hiding place, Dan?" asked Chakotay.

He replied with a devilish grin, "You'll see."

Thirty minutes later Dan landed the shuttle amidst a thick grove of trees, with barely enough room to land the craft. He looked back at Kathryn and Chakotay and opened the hatch. "We're here. Stay down while I check everything," and he stepped out. Five minutes later he returned, said it was clear and Kathryn and Chakotay stepped out. In a few moments they smiled. They were at Dan's cabin.

"Won't someone be able to find your address here, Dan? Brad found it."

"Not now. I erased it with a 'wash'. That's actually what I was doing this morning once we got back from the hospital. Now the only address is my city apartment."

"I don't suppose you want me to wrestle with that tree out back," asked Chakotay with a light chuckle as Dan punched in his security code and unlocked his door.

"As much as I would like that, you two are not to step one foot outside this cabin. At anytime! Do you understand that?" he said in a firm tone bordering on orders.

Kathryn looked at Dan. "Is it that serious that we can't even step outside for fresh air, Dan?"

He nodded. "You bet it is, Kathryn. While in the Admiral's office earlier this morning, before you arrived and before the news about Weeks and Paris was released, we heard a Captain had also been killed last night in his home. His name is . . . was Captain Stewart and he had argued about his assignment two days ago with Admiral Branson. He thought his orders were unfair."

As Kathryn and Chakotay stared in silence at him he added, "So you can see they aren't afraid of taking matters into their own hands anymore, and with that Grievance you filed you are now definitely a target. They made Stewart's death look like a suicide, but the Admiral and I know now it wasn't, so hard telling what or how they are planning your demise, but rest assured Captain, it is in their plans, so I reiterate you must stay inside! Clear?"

"Clear," replied Chakotay as he placed his arm around Kathryn. "I'll see to it, even though Kathryn will be hard to control."

"Don't try to be a hero, Kathryn. Let us handle this." He looked at Chakotay and added, "You, too, Chakotay. You've sacrificed enough." He smiled for the first time. "You will have something here to occupy your time, however," he said as he motioned for them to follow him. They entered a back room that was laden with consoles. Dan pointed to them. "We want you to study those Admirals. Look at everything concerning them, even back to their Academy days. Find a fault or a constant with each of them that might lead to why they have banded together and trying to take over Starfleet. See if it leads you to other names and study them as well.

"I will contact you each morning and evening over my secure line here in the cabin to give you the latest news and find out if you have pieced together anything. This is important information that we need so you will be quite busy. If you need to get in touch with me, the closed line is that console at the far end. It is 'safe' and you punch in the number J2033LC. That will go to my console at my apartment. I will call you back when I receive that signal. If you have an emergency, the number is A47, which goes to Admiral Dodge's private line.

"Also, he said as he walked from the room, "If for any reason someone comes here, and no one will unless they have ugly intentions, I want you to move to my 'safe' room." He walked into the front room and bending down, grabbed the fringe of a rug and lifted. A door opened in the floor.

"You will quickly go down there, follow the tunnel and you will come to a door. The panel to open it is on the right and you put in the numbers 81227. When the door opens you have exactly five seconds to get in because it will close again in that time."

"Why on earth do you have a secret room in a cabin in the woods, Dan?" asked Kathryn with a slightly amused look on her face.

"I'm just playing it safe. I have seen or 'felt' some vibes over the last few years and after, or rather while, building this cabin I constructed that haven and the 'secure' lines. They have scramblers built right into them. Okay I have to get back. I really do have some appointments to keep this trip normal, and then I will be staying at my apartment. There is lots of food, so you will be okay. Remember, stay inside and throw that dead bolt lock on the front door after I leave." He looked at Chakotay. "In your words, Commander, may the Spirits be with us in this matter." With that he nodded, smiled and left and Chakotay locked the door.

"Well, I'm feeling very shell-shocked by all this honey," said Kathryn.

"Me too," he answered softly. "I think it was safer in the Delta Quadrant," he added with a rueful smile.

Kathryn sat down and stared at him. "I just can't believe this is happing, sweetheart. It's unbelievable that Starfleet, or someone in Starfleet, is doing this . . . and killing people!"

"It's obviously not the Starfleet you knew and grew up with," he stated. "However, if we can do something to bring them down I think we should help all we can."

"I agree," said Kathryn. "To court martial me was eye opening, but I thought it was a personal vendetta because of some of the things that happened in the Delta Quadrant. Now we are being told Starfleet has a dark side and I'm only part of the problem."

Chakotay smiled. "Actually it is you who are 'stirring the pot' by filing the grievance. If we hadn't had such a good lawyer, we probably would have just gone along with their decision like good little puppets and not even known the difference."

Kathryn nodded and looked around at all the consoles. Heaving a big sigh, she stood and said, "Let's eat something and then start our research."

* * * *

As Kathryn sat at the console studying the list of Admirals she separated Branson, Kent, Stoddard, hesitated and then pulled out Ross and Spencer as well. As she looked at them she decided to list all the Admirals including Admiral Dodge, although she felt he was the one safe Admiral. While she did that Chakotay formed a separate list of Captains and then put them in list headings of Starships, Departments, etc until he had all Captains culled out of the Personnel listing.

"It might be a good idea as we find names associated with the Admirals, to make a separate list sweetheart," he said as he looked at his list.

"Agreed," said Kathryn. "If there is a connection or a constant thread between names we might find it that way."

Meanwhile, Admiral Dodge, in a twinkling of lights and the slight hum of the transporter, arrived in his hospital room up on the fourth floor and under the name of Jim Stickler for registration purposes. A moment after he arrived, his cohort, Captain Adam Nazoma beamed in, looked around and said, "What are we doing in a hospital room Chester? I thought we were going to go to some nice little vacation spot."

Dodge grinned. "Well this room is little and I'm sorry to say it isn't a vacation spot. Adam I need to tell you that we are in hiding and I used your position as head of the Transporter division to help me. I need your word that you will not leave this room nor divulge my existence here."

Nazoma frowned. "What do you mean? What's going on?"

"You have to trust me Adam, but I can't tell you anything except that my life is in danger following the ruling I made on Captain Janeway. Please don't ask any questions. Can I trust you on this?"

Nazoma stared at Dodge for a long moment and then said softly, "It has something to do with the attacks on Weeks and Paris doesn't it?"

"Yes."

Adam walked to the bed and sat down. "You know, a while back I heard rumors that there was some clique among the Admirals, but I didn't realize it might lead to deaths. Is this related to that?"

"What exactly did you hear?"

"Oh it was a couple of Lt's whispering in the washroom and they didn't know I was in a stall. All I heard was something about 'have you heard some of the Admirals are banding together' and the response was 'yeah, and it surprises me that Admiral Koen is included.' That's all I heard because they walked out."

Dodge nodded his head as he silently made note of Koen's name. "Thanks Adam I appreciate your honesty, but I really can't say anymore. Again, I ask, can I trust you?"

"I seem to sense I am 'in hiding' with you Chester - or held hostage to make sure I don't reveal your whereabouts. Which is it?"

"Let's just call it 'in hiding' together, Adam," said Chester with a grin. "And I'm sorry. In my mind I trust you, but things are just not what they seem right now and to be honest, I suspect everyone."

Adam grinned. "Okay so I'm a hostage. I'm your friend, Chester. I have known you since I was a little boy, so yes, you can trust me to not leave this room nor squeal on your whereabouts. If I can, I'd like to help."

"You already have by transporting me here and then deleting that from the computer." He then tapped his Comm Badge. "Captain Raymond?" he said softly.

"Here sir," came the disembodied voice."

"Everything in place?"

"Yes sir. You?"

"Yes." And he ended the conversation.

* * * * *

Down at Admiral Paris' room, Admiral Branson walked up to the room and started to reach for the door.

Lt Sutton immediately stepped in front of him. "I'm sorry sir, but you are not allowed to go in there."

"What! Do you know who I am Lt?"

"Yes sir. Admiral Branson, but you are not allowed entry, sir."

"Get out of my way or I'll have your hide!" snapped Branson.

Sutton held his ground. "I can't allow you to enter sir. I have my orders."

"Just who the hell gave that order? I am going in, Lt!"

"No sir," said Sutton and braced himself in front of the door. "As to who gave that order, all I know is that only certain individuals are allowed in."

Just then Captain Raymond opened the door and stepped out. "Is there a problem, Lt?"

"Admiral Branson wishes to enter sir, but I told him he could not."

"Good, Lt. I'm sorry Admiral, but you cannot go in to Admiral Paris' room."

"And why not!" thundered the very angry Admiral.

"For your own protection sir," replied Raymond.

"Is that right? Just what does that mean Captain or is that your 'legal opinion'?"

"I guess you could call it a legal opinion, Admiral. Simply stated, if you go in and Admiral Paris dies shortly thereafter, you will be the primary suspect, so as I said, it is for your own protection, sir."

Branson immediately calmed down. "I see. Yes I guess that is a valid point, Captain. Very well then, but keep me apprised of Admiral Paris' condition."

"I will do that sir," and then he stood and watched as Branson and an accompanying Captain walked off, noting the two with their heads together and whispering. "Lt Sutton. Do you know who the Captain is that's with the Admiral?"

"Yes sir. He is Captain Markloff."

"Is he the Admiral's Aide?"

"No sir. It just seems that wherever Admiral Branson goes, Captain Markloff is with him."

"I see," said Dan with a frown. "Oh, and by the way, good job standing your ground against the Admiral."

"Thank you, sir. He had me very frightened about my job, but I was keeping to Admiral Dodge's orders."

"Just remember that Lt and you will be fine," and then Captain Raymond re-entered the room, glanced at the nurse tending to Admiral Paris and then walked to the cot he had requested and after lying down, tried to remember what he knew about Captain Markloff. He also made a mental note to send that name to Kathryn tonight when he contacted her.

Meanwhile Kathryn and Chakotay continued to study the Admirals and all information concerning their careers with Starfleet.

"Captain Raymond must have duplicate copies of all Starfleet's records here," commented Chakotay as he leaned back and gave a big stretch.

"Yes they seem quite complete," commented Kathryn as she studied Admiral Branson's file. "Honey I've noticed one thing that seems to be a constant. For three years in a row the same group of Admiral's has gone to a small island in the Pacific for their R&R. Does that seem strange? I don't remember that happening when I was stationed here."

"Who are the Admirals?" asked Chakotay, suddenly interested. "I remember having two Captains do that the last two years and one more this year."

"Maybe we have something," said Kathryn as she glanced down at the notes on her Padd. "There is Admiral Branson, Koen, Kent, Stockridge and Stoddard."

"We know of Branson, Kent and Stoddard from that meeting we crashed. Who are Koen and Stockridge?"

Kathryn punched at her console to bring up the Personnel Files. "Admiral Koen is in charge of Shuttle Transportation and Scheduling of Starship Missions and Stockridge is in charge of Foreign Affairs and Ambassadors."

"Okay I have a Captain Markloff, who is with Research and Development, Captain Dunston from Maintenance and a Captain Snell who is listed as an aide to an Admiral Parson, who you don't show at those meetings, but Snell was in the R&R group for the first time last year. Seems strange that these three Captains were at the island of Palu with Admirals."

"And my Admirals have gone to Palu for the last three years!" exclaimed Kathryn. "How can we pursue that to make sure it was strictly business and legitimate?"

"Kathryn let's examine the positions. Branson is Chief of Starfleet Operations, Space Division, Koen is Shuttle and Scheduling of Starship Missions, Kent is in charge of Research and Development, Stockridge is Foreign Affairs and Ambassadors and Stoddard is the Records Division." He looked at Kathryn. "That covers Starfleet Operations pretty good. What position does Parson have?"

"Maintenance and Supplies," replied Kathryn. "You are right, honey! These men cover virtually all the departments, at least the large main ones. Only the Legal department where Admiral Dodge is and Personnel where Admiral Weeks was appear to be not covered! What could be so important that they would all gather in the same place? And if it was so important, why wasn't Weeks, Paris and Dodge there? They are also top echelon Admirals. Oh, and also Admiral Ross who was at that Hearing meeting. Hmmm. This is getting very interesting," she said as she looked at her list..

"I think we should bring this up with Dan when he contacts us tonight, sweetheart," said Chakotay as he leaned over her shoulder and looked at the Padd. "We just might, or might not, depending on what Dan says, have found a clue."

* * *

Admiral Dodge stood looking out the window. Captain Nazoma stood quietly beside him. Dodge sighed.

"I wish I could go down and see how Owen is."

"Chester let me leave," said Nazoma. "I can go back to work and Transport you anyplace and anytime you want."

Dodge looked at him and nodded. "That would make it very convenient, Adam."

"Then let me leave now and you can contact me whenever you need some help."

Dodge stood contemplating this for a moment. He was sorely tempted but something in his gut told him no. Finally he looked up and shook his head. "No, I think we'll just stay the way we are."

A momentary flash of anger passed through Adam's eyes. In fact it was so fast Admiral Dodge wasn't sure he really saw it. Then Nazoma smiled, shrugged his shoulders and said, "It's your call Chester. So what do we do other than stare out the window?" he asked with a chuckle.

Chester grinned and said, "That's about it I'm afraid." Just then the Admiral's Comm badge chirped and Chester tapped it, and waited.

"Admiral I have some news," came the voice of Dan Raymond. "Starfleet's Administrative Review Committee has just promoted a Captain Baxter to Admiral and named him to replace Admiral Weeks."

"You've got to be kidding!" the Admiral replied, shock evident in his voice.

"No sir. I have the official release in my hand."

"That is blatantly unfair Dan. You should have received that position," fumed Dodge. Just then the Admiral noted that Adam was intently listening to their conversation and said, "Hold on a minute."

He turned to Adam and asked him to move to the other side of the room. Nazoma looked surprised for a moment and then did as asked. Dodge also moved to the far wall on his side, and then stood so he could see Adam. Lowering his voice to a whisper he said, "Dan, Captain Nazoma seemed unduly interested and happy that Baxter got the job. His expression was fast and then he quickly covered it. Look his record up, Dan. In the meantime, I am on that Committee and no one contacted me."

"The release mentions that not all Admirals were able to be contacted but the majority voted for Baxter."

"All right. I'll deal with that later. Have you contacted Captain Janeway," he continued in his whisper.

"I'm about to do it now Admiral. I'm in Paris' room and it's about as safe as any right now. I have had Security bring me a portable console and I have already run a check on it for 'bugs' and it appears safe. I will let you know. Raymond out."

After the conversation Admiral Dodge walked over to Nazoma. "I'm sorry Adam, but I'm afraid all of my conversations will be private."

"I understand Chester," he replied with a smile.

"Also I'm afraid I have to ask for your Comm badge. I can't allow any transmissions other than to me, out of this room."

Adam's face flushed and he protested. "You don't trust me, Chester!"

"I don't trust anybody right now, Adam, I already told you that. I'm sorry, but your badge please," and he held out his hand.

With a trace of anger Adam pulled his badge off his chest and handed it to Dodge who put it in his pants pocket.

"I really resent that, Chester. You know me!"

"I know and I will apologize and make it up to you when this sorry mess is all over." That said he turned and once again stared out the window.

Down at Admiral Paris' room an Ensign came walking down the corridor saw the security and went up to Lt Sutton.

"Sir, I have to speak to Admiral Dodge or Admiral Paris and I can't find Admiral Dodge."

"What is the reason Ensign?"

"I have some information, sir. It's very important." The Ensign seemed frightened.

"You can tell me, Ensign and I will relay the information," said Sutton.

"No sir, I have to talk to an Admiral. It concerns Captain Janeway!"

"As I said Ensign, you can give me the information . . ."

"No sir! I have to talk to Admiral Paris or Dodge!" he said in an adamant tone.

Just then the door to Admiral Paris' room swung open and Captain Raymond stepped out, having heard part of the conversation through the door.

"I'm Captain Raymond, Chief of Legal Affairs. What is it you wish to do Ensign . . .?"

"Ensign Dixon, sir. I really need to speak to Admiral Dodge sir. I have important information!"

"About what Ensign Dixon?"

"I can't tell you sir. I must speak to an Admiral," Dixon said doggedly.

Raymond took hold of the man's arm and walked a few steps down the corridor, pushed open the door to the Men's Room and then turned and violently slammed Dixon against the back of the door.

"What is your information concerning Captain Janeway? I want to know now, Ensign! I am Chief of Legal Affairs and the aide to Admiral Dodge. Now tell me!"

Dixon gulped and looked frightened to death as he stared wide-eyed at the brown eyes glaring in anger at him.

"It concerns Captain Janeway, sir. Her life is in danger."

"Tell me about it Ensign. Everything!" he said as pressed his forearm against Dixon's neck.

"I'm the receptionist for Admiral Branson and I guess, by mistake, he had his Console line open, and the channel was open and I heard him . . . I heard him say, 'We now know where Janeway is. Get rid of her once and for all'. But I don't know who he was talking to."

Raymond released his hold on Dixon. "Admiral Branson said that? He made a call to someone?"

"Yes sir. His Comm light was lit on the console and it was his voice."

Raymond grabbed Dixon's arm and rushed out of the men's room, pulling Dixon with him and nodding to Sutton went into Paris' room. He told the Security men inside to guard Dixon and then Dan punched his console to his cabin. There wasn't any answer and he ran outside and looked at Sutton.

"Lt! You are coming with me. Get two of your Security men from the off duty list."

"Yes sir. Nicolas and Collison are two of the best men off duty now sir."

"Get them Lt!" He turned and looked back into the room. "Ensign Dixon you are also coming with me. Let's go!" he roared as Sutton ran to the other room and almost immediately came out with two men who were hurriedly pulling on their jackets.

As they ran through the corridor Captain Raymond asked where the Security Shuttle was and they headed that way. After all jumped in Sutton started it up and they soared into the air.

"Faster, Lt!" barked Raymond.

"Sir we are in a restricted zone on speed."

"I don't give a rat's ass about that right now, Lt!. Doesn't this shuttle have the flashing Security lights?"

"Yes sir."

"Then turn them on and get the thruster hot, Lt. This is an emergency and we need to get there immediately!" The shuttles lights immediately began flashing and after Lt Sutton tapped the Thruster Burner panel, the shuttle shot through the air.

Meanwhile, Chakotay and Kathryn had just finished a snack and were busy collating their information when Chakotay suddenly looked up.

"Did you hear something, Kathryn?"

"No I'm concentrating on this Padd. Why?"

"I thought I heard something."

"You are getting paranoid, honey," she said with a laugh.

He chuckled. "I guess so," and went back to studying the screen.

About five minutes later he leaned back, stretched and then cocked his head to one side and listened intently.

"Maybe I am paranoid but I thought I heard something outside. I think I'll have a look around," and he got up, moved to a window in their room, but didn't see anything so moved into another room.

Just then Kathryn called out, "Honey it all fits! I'm putting all this information on a Padd."

Chakotay started to go back and then decided to finish checking all the windows. He couldn't help but feel something was wrong and moving into the front room looked through a window to the side of the cabin.

There! He thought he saw a glint of something shiny so he moved to the front window for a better angle. As he peered out through the trees he caught sight of four masked men silently moving from tree to tree.

Chakotay raced back to Kathryn. "Let's go to the safe room!" he suddenly yelled. "Someone's here and they don't look too friendly!"

As Kathryn stood she noticed for the first time the light on the 'safe' console was flashing and quickly moved to it and looked down. It had been flashing for five minutes!

"Chakotay, the safe panel light showing an incoming call is flashing!"

"Forget it Kathryn. If we don't answer Dan will know we are in trouble. Let's go!"

They raced into the front room and Chakotay grabbed the fringe of the rug but the trap door didn't open! He grabbed another place as they heard footsteps on the porch. The trap door still didn't open.

Kathryn suddenly turned and ran from the room. "I have to get that Padd!" she yelled at Chakotay's frown.

By now Chakotay was frantic and desperately grabbed still another area. The trap door opened just as Kathryn came running back into the room. A panel on the door suddenly exploded and they could see a hand reaching through, but the inside lock was down low and couldn't be reached. Chakotay smiled grimly at Dan's placement, as that would give them a little more time.

He hurried Kathryn into the opening and quickly climbed in after her. Just as he pulled the trap door shut the front door came crashing down.

"If they saw that trap door go down it will take them a few minutes to figure out how to open it," he said as they hurried along the dimly lit tunnel and reached the door to the safe room. As Kathryn searched for the panel and then found it, Chakotay could hear the men working on the trap door.

"Hurry Kathryn. They found the door. They will be here soon!"

"I'm having trouble entering the code Chakotay. Either I don't remember it right or they've cut the circuit!"

"It's 81227. Try again!"

"It's still not opening. Damn it!" and she tried again. "It won't open!" she cried out in frustration.

"Try putting a zero in front of the eight," yelled Chakotay as nervously faced down the tunnel.

"That's it! It's starting to open," said Kathryn. "Come on, come on," she grumbled to the slow moving door.

"They've got the door open and are coming down, Kathryn. Hurry and get in! I'll try to stop them!"

"I'm not leaving you!" she answered.

Just then the four men came around the corner, each carrying a phaser. One man raised his.

"No!" cried out Chakotay and he instantly stepped in front of Kathryn while at the same time he tried to push her into the opening door with one hand.

The whine of the phaser was heard, hitting Chakotay in the chest just as he fully stepped in front of Kathryn. With a soft groan he crumpled to the ground.

"Chakotay!" yelled Kathryn and dropped to her knees beside him.

"Don't worry about him Captain," said the muffled voice of the attacker. "You will soon join him."

Despite the severity of the situation and hearing the door now beginning to shut, she had the thought, At least I'm going to die with Chakotay but I'll bring you all down with this information and she turned slightly and quickly flipped the Padd through the very narrow opening just before the door shut.

"That wasn't too smart, Captain Janeway," growled the muffle voice and he pointed his phaser at her. "But never mind, we'll get it."

Just then phaser fire erupted from behind and two of the men behind him dropped to the ground. He whirled to fire at whoever it was and more fire erupted, dropping him and his cohort beside him.

Dan Raymond came running forward, jumping over the crumpled bodies on the ground.

"Kathryn! Are you all right?"

"They've shot Chakotay," she yelled.

Raymond knelt down opposite her and felt Chakotay's neck.

"I can't feel a pulse." He turned and yelled at Sutton. "Call for the MedeVac Transport and get them here on the double. We have an emergency! Collison, there is a Med-kit in my kitchen. Get it!" Both men raced out of the tunnel and up the stairs.

Ensign Dixon trotted forward. "Sir I have been trained as a Medical Aide. Maybe I can help." Raymond nodded and moved out of the way and Dixon knelt down and felt for Chakotay's pulse. Kathryn remained kneeling on the other side, shocked to her very core at Chakotay being shot.

"I can't lose him Dan," she cried. "I just can't lose him!"

"He'll make it, Kathryn," said Dan as he knelt beside her and placed an arm around her shoulders.

Collison raced back with the kit and Dixon opened it and took out a hypo, looked at the ampoules and found the heart stimulant. After injecting Chakotay he again felt for Chakotay's pulse, but looked up with a forlorn expression.

"I'm not getting any pulse or heartbeat!" and he injected yet another ampoule with the Hypo. Still nothing. He quickly straddled Chakotay and started compression on his chest, looked at Kathryn and said, "Mouth to mouth, Captain!"

Kathryn moved to Chakotay's head, positioned it and looked at Dixon and waited. Dixon suddenly nodded and said, "Now!" She pinched his nostrils shut, lowered her head and placing her mouth over Chakotay's blew what she hoped would be life sustaining air.

This continued for five minutes, with Dixon at one time asking Dan to inject another ampoule of a heart stimulant.

Three minutes later a number of footsteps were heard upstairs. The shout of "Captain Raymond!" was heard.

"Down here! Use the trap door entrance!"

A doctor soon appeared and kneeled by Chakotay, made a reading with his TriCorder, took an ampoule from his kit and injected it directly into Chakotay's chest. Chakotay moaned softly.

"We have to get him to the hospital immediately!" He looked back at the two aides that came with him. "You two bring that carrier here and let's move him. I have a heartbeat but I don't know for how long!" Then he looked up at Dan. "We were just coming back from an emergency a short ways from here when we heard the call. You and this man are lucky. Even so, I don't know whether we are in time and can save him."

The two aides quickly moved Chakotay onto the carrier and lifted it up.

Kathryn stood to one side, Dan beside her. "He stepped in front of me. This is the second time," she whispered.

Dan slipped an arm around her shoulders, knowing the devastation and heartbreak she was feeling. "I know. I know," was all he could think to say.

They moved Chakotay to the open area of the stairs and then the Doctor called for a beam out.

"I'm going with you!" cried out Kathryn as she quickly moved in beside the doctor. He nodded and said, "There are five of us. Energize."

As they twinkled out of sight, Dan called "I'll see you at the hospital, Kathryn!"

He then turned to Dixon. "Nice job Ensign. You kept him alive for the medical team. Sutton, get your men and Dixon to the shuttle. I'll join you in a moment."

After they had disappeared, and on a hunch, he opened the door to the safe room, spotted the Padd and quickly bent down and snatched it as the door started closing. He grinned and stuck it in his pocket and turned and headed out. They must have found something and at least got it in the room, he mused to himself.

At the hospital Dan raced for Admiral Dodge's room. He had read the Padd Kathryn and Chakotay had made and felt it was the answer to what was happing with Starfleet. As he was near the door he heard scuffling and then the whine of a phaser shot. He reached out with both hands and violently pushed the door open as he ran full speed into it.

Bursting through, a quick glance showed Admiral Dodge and Captain Nazoma struggling, but as the door crashed open Nazoma gave Dodge a shove, broke free and whirled towards Dan, pointing his phaser as he did so.

Dan dove for the floor and felt the heat of the phaser pass over his head. Rolling to one knee he quickly launched himself toward Nazoma and crashed full force into his chest. As he hit he flung one arm up and into Adam's forearm of the hand that was holding the phaser. The force jarred the phaser loose as the two men tumbled to the floor.

The phaser skidded across the floor and Admiral Dodge immediately crawled over, grabbed it and jumped to his feet. Pointing it at the two struggling men he shouted, "That's enough! I have the phaser now Adam."

Dan released his hold on Nazoma and got to his feet, breathing heavily as he looked at the Captain. Adam slowly got to his feet and eyes blazing in anger said, "You don't know what you are doing, old man!"

"I don't know what I'm doing? Just what the hell are you doing Adam?" he roared. "I've known you since you were a young boy. I thought you were my friend, that I could trust you!"

"Starfleet has to change, old man. We have to get you old fashioned fart asses out of power!"

"And the way you do it is by killing people? That's insane!"

"It wasn't supposed to be that way, but so be it if it means changing Starfleet!" Adam shot back.

Dan looked at Dodge. "Admiral you are shot. Are you okay?"

"He just got my shoulder, Dan. What's happening with you? Your uniform looks a little more rumpled than from just this little tussle."

Raymond then related what happened at the cabin.

"Chakotay was shot?" asked Dodge. "Is he here?"

"Yes sir. He's probably in Emergency right now."

"Let's go Dan," and Raymond grabbed Nazoma's arm and they walked out the door. Collison and Nicolas were standing there and Raymond turned Captain Nazoma over to Collison and ordered him shackled and taken to a secure place for a few moments. Then Dan had Nicolas escort he and the Admiral to the Emergency Division where they asked for Captain Janeway. A nurse indicated she was in the private waiting room and they quickly walked there. When they entered they saw Kathryn, sitting alone in the room, her elbows on her knees and both hands covering her face.

"Kathryn?" asked Dan softly as he walked to her and kneeled down.

She looked up and tears were streaming down her face. "He's in surgery and they won't let me be with him," she whispered.

Dan placed both hands on her cheeks. The tears dammed up by the hands, welled and then broke free, and rippled in and out of his fingers until they streaked down the back of his hands and silently dropped to the floor

"He'll make it Kathryn. He'll make it."

"This is the second time he has sacrificed himself to save me, Dan. I just don't know if I can take it if I lose him this time. I just can't lose him," she said as the tears increased.

"He'll make it Kathryn. He's strong and he loves you so much. He'll pull through."

"I just don't know. His system is still so weak from before. I don't know whether he has the strength to fight this time!"

Admiral Dodge moved over and sat down beside her. "Then we will sit here with you and pull for him to make it, Captain," he said in his gruff, yet soft voice. Kathryn nodded.

An hour went by and then another. Finally after another thirty minutes a Doctor walked into the room. Kathryn immediately jumped to her feet, her expression a myriad of fear and hope.

"Captain Janeway?" he asked. She nodded. "Commander Chakotay is out of surgery now and we lost him . . . "

"Noooo!" cried out Kathryn, her knees going weak. Dan quickly put his arm around her waist to hold her as his heart lurched.

The Doctor smiled. "I'm sorry. I obviously misstated that. It was touch and go for awhile, and we did lose him a couple of times, but he is a very strong-willed man. He is going to make it."

"Thank you doctor," she whispered in relief, while Dan tightened his arm around her and pulled her close in a hug.

"Actually it is the young Ensign that kept him alive long enough for us to complete the job. He's the one that deserves thanks," said the doctor.

Captain Raymond made a mental note to tell Admiral Dodge of Ensign Dixon's help and briefly wondered whether Sutton was holding him somewhere. In all the excitement of racing back to the hospital he had forgotten about him. Somehow, Dan felt Ensign Dixon would not leave.

"Can I see Chakotay?" asked Kathryn as she wiped the tears from her cheeks.

"He's in the Recovery room. You can't go in but the door has windows."

The doctor led them through a maze of doors and corridors until at last he pointed to a door. "He's in there, Captain.

Kathryn moved to the window and looked in. She saw a bed with a form lying quietly and attended by two nurses. They swung the bed to a different position, as if getting ready to move him. At that point Kathryn saw a hand and then a foot move slightly, and knew he was alive, at least at this moment.

Then, as if a magnet existed between the two of them, Chakotay turned his head and looked directly at the door. Their eyes met, brown looking at blue, and a small smile twitched at the corner of his mouth.

Kathryn mouthed 'I love you' to him and he nodded his head slightly and then his eyes closed. Two men moved in with a portable bio-bed and Chakotay was lifted onto it and then they headed for the door.

Kathryn stepped aside as it swung open and then moved quickly in beside Chakotay and reaching down took hold of his hand. It felt hot.

"We are taking him to Room 110 Captain," said one of the men, "But I'm afraid he will be asleep for another hour, maybe two."

Kathryn nodded her head and said, "Fine, but I'm not leaving his side," and kept walking beside the bed while holding tight to Chakotay's hand, as if daring someone to tell her to let go.

As they walked off Dan took Admiral Dodge aside and told him he had some important information and they must go back to Paris' room.

Upon reaching the room, Dan noted Lt Sutton was again on duty. His eyes were bloodshot from lack of sleep.

"Lt Sutton. I suggest you get some rest. Who relieves you?"

"Ensign Scott sir," he replied. "And also Captain, I have Ensign Dixon in the Off Duty room. Captain Nazoma is shackled and being held in the other room."

"Good. I need to talk to him later. Now get Ensign Scott on duty and you get to bed," said Raymond.

"And that's an order!" Admiral Dodge immediately added.

"Yes sir," and Lt Sutton walked to the room next door. Almost immediately Ensign Scott came out and took his position, looked at Admiral Dodge and Captain Raymond, then nodded for them to enter the room.

Once inside Dan and Chester spent the next thirty minutes going over the information on the Padd Kathryn and Chakotay had gathered.

Dodge was quiet a moment, then, as he was a decisive man said, "It all fits. Send a Security detail, including you, to Admiral Branson's office and arrest him. At the same time send security squads to Kent, Stoddard, Koen, Stockridge, Scanlon and Parson and arrest them. Place each in a separate cell, and keep them away from the others. Send other contingents to arrest . . . Admiral Baxter and Captain's Markloff, Denton and Snell. If any of them are innocent we can express our apologies later. I'm sure the list will get bigger but at least that's a start."

Without a word, Captain Raymond walked quickly out of the room. Dodge turned and walked over to Admiral Paris' bed, and saw he was awake and looking at him.

"How are you Owen?"

"I'm fine Chester," he said in a hoarse voice. "I didn't hear all of it, but it sounds like you are moving to arrest some people. Do you have proof? We can't let them beat this on a technicality."

Dodge grinned. "Now you know I am head of Legal Affairs and Captain Raymond is the best mind there. Be assured he will draw up a Warrant and have the proper wording and evidence to not let us lose them on technicalities."

Owen smiled. "I hope not Chester. I certainly hope not."

Chester then drew up a chair and told him about Chakotay and that Kathryn was with him down on the surgical floor.

Owen frowned. "Kathryn has gone through so much. Now this and it is the second time Commander Chakotay has willingly put his life on the line to save her."

Admiral Dodge sighed and nodded his head. "There is tremendous love between those two Owen. Would that everyone loved each other that much."

Owen merely sighed, nodded his head and closed his eyes.

* * * *

Captain Raymond, along with six security guards walked into Admiral Branson's office. Captain Markloff was standing there and that made Dan smile. He told a Security Guard to hold him and then without any further ado, pushed open Admiral Branson's office. The remaining Security Guard detail followed him in.

"What is the meaning breaking in here like this?" barked Branson.

Admiral Koen, seated in a chair opposite Branson started to stand, but Dan placed a hand on his shoulder and pushed him back down.

"No need to stand Admiral Koen. I'm glad you are here actually. Admiral Branson, I am here to arrest you with a charge of Aiding and Abetting the murder of Admiral Weeks, the injuring of Admiral Owens, the attempted murder of Captain Janeway and Commander Chakotay, and I might add, with subterfuge to under-mine the operation of the Starfleet Federation." He then turned and looked down at Admiral Koen. "Your subpoena will have almost the same wording Admiral," he said as he tapped at his Comm Badge.

"Security Detail, this is Captain Raymond. Admiral Koen and Captain Markloff are in Admiral Branson's office. Those of you with subpoenas for those gentlemen, please report here on the double."

"You can't get away with this," snarled Branson.

"Oh I think we can Admiral. We happen to have one reliable witness on your threat of 'Get rid of Captain Janeway once and for al'," he said.

"You won't make it stick," he growled.

"Maybe not, but human nature is a funny thing. People, when faced with arrest and jail time, seem to not want to take the rap and start naming names and information like you wouldn't believe!" he said with a grin. "It has already started to happen on some of our earlier arrests an hour ago." This last statement was a bluff but he hoped it would have the desired result. It did.

"I told you this wouldn't work," whined Admiral Koen to Branson.

"Shut up you fool," yelled Branson. "They are just bluffing!"

"Well I'm not going to take the rap for the murder of James Weeks. I can tell you that for sure!"

At that moment the door opened and two security guards came in, with one immediately handing Admiral Koen a subpoena and said, "Admiral Koen, I have orders to arrest you and take you to a holding cell."

Koen rose slowly and as the guard motioned for him to leave by waggling his phaser Koen looked back at Branson and growled, "I should never have listened to you!"

* * * *

As Dan had said, people don't like to 'go down alone' and a great deal of information, along with naming names was given out by individuals when arrested. The arrests continued for the next three days, until an astounding number of thirty-five Admirals, Commanders, Captains, Lt's and Ensign's were in custody. Some, hearing of the ongoing arrests, had tried to leave town, but were quickly tracked down and placed in detention.

"This is an absolute horror story," said Dodge to Raymond as they sat in the Admiral's office. "How did we let this happen anyway?"

"Complacency with the status quo maybe," said Dan quietly. "I think the signs were there and in hindsight we'll probably start remembering them, but we merely turned our heads with a ' it didn't concern us' type of mentality."

"I suppose you are right," Chester sighed. "But damn it, it just shouldn't have happened!"

* * * *

Chakotay had remained basically unconscious, but now on the third morning slowly opened his eyes and felt Kathryn's hand holding his. He turned his head and looked at her.

"Hi" he said weakly.

"Hi" she replied with a smile.

"How long have I been out?"

"You have been in and out of consciousness for almost three days, sweetheart."

"I don't remember any of it. Are you okay?"

"Yes, and I'm getting mighty tired of you trying to die to protect me," she said as she leaned over and placed her lips on his before he could respond.

As she pulled back she placed her hand gently on his cheek. "I love you so much. Promise me you won't do that again. I don't know what I'd do if I lost you," and she kissed him again.

As their lips parted he smiled weakly. "I promise if you promise to stop putting yourself in those dangerous situations."

She chuckled. "Now that really wasn't my fault."

"No and you didn't file the Grievance that ticked somebody off either," he replied with a smile.

"Hush and just promise me you won't do it again. I love you Chakotay, as I have never loved anyone or anything in my life! I never want to lose you," she said tenderly.

"And I never want anything to happen to you. That's why I play the good First Officer and protect my Captain . . . and my wife, whom I love with all my heart and soul."

They kissed again and then Kathryn laid her head on his chest.

"What happened while I was sleeping?" he asked.

She raised her head. "A lot, actually. They have arrested an awful lot of people . . . it was thirty-five the last I heard."

"Thirty-five! They had really gotten a lot of people involved. Was it that Admiral group we put together?"

"Mainly. They are still investigating and Dan said yesterday there might have been some that have gotten away, but with the tentacles of this monster octopus cut off, they may not surface again or ever be found out. But he said people talk and they may still get more names. I am just so shocked by all of this honey. I can't believe it!"

"I know and I 'm sorry. Your beloved Starfleet had a very dark side. Just be glad you weren't here for seven years. It was probably being formed even before you got the assignment to hunt me down."

She grinned. "And what a catch I made!" Chakotay held out his arms and she lay her head back down on his chest and felt such comfort and safety as his arms encircled her.

"What happens now sweetheart?" he asked. "With you I mean."

"I don't know," she murmured as she turned her head onto his shoulder and looked up at him. "I'm sure I'll be told something, sometime. But as long as you are here in the hospital they won't get me to budge!"

At that moment the door swung open and Admiral Dodge and Captain Raymond walked in.

"Ah, so you are finally awake. How is the patient?" asked Dodge.

"Coming along just fine Admiral," Chakotay answered in a weak voice.

"I'm glad, but it seems you make a habit out of putting your life on the line to protect your Captain," said Dodge. Chakotay just smiled and looked at Kathryn.

"The first time he did that we got married," chuckled Kathryn.

"Well I don't mean to be pushy but I do have a license to unite couples. If you want to tie the knot again I can oblige," said Dan with a smirk.

Kathryn quickly looked at Chakotay and he smiled, so she turned and looked at Dan. "That's a deal. When can you do it?"

"Right now if you want, and the Admiral can be your witness."

Kathryn and Chakotay immediately agreed and Dan moved to the foot of the bed as they joined hands, saying he didn't have his book so he would just have to make up the words. Both nodded and said they didn't mind.

"Kathryn and Chakotay. You wish to be united in marriage and I want to impress upon you that marriage is something that requires give and take from both of you. You have already discovered that life is fraught with danger, especially for Chakotay who seems to have to keep protecting his Captain, but as I have come to know you two beautiful people, I have realized that despite everything, despite any obstacle that might loom in your path, you two will overcome it, as a love such as yours is meant to be. The love you feel for each other is like a beacon of light in the darkest night. Unfortunately it's usually a phaser shot," he added with an impish smile while Kathryn and Chakotay laughed. "However, it gives me great pleasure to unite you as husband and wife." He then looked at Kathryn who was now looking at him with a puzzled frown and yet a smile.

"Kathryn do you take this man to be your husband, and will you please make him a promise to stop putting yourself in danger so he will not have to put himself in danger," and at this remark everyone chuckled. "Sorry I couldn't help it. I had to add that," said Dan with a laugh. "But in all seriousness do you promise that you will care for him and love him regardless of the situation until death do you part?"

"I will," replied Kathryn in a husky voice as she looked at Chakotay. "And I add that I will do my best to keep out of dangerous situations."

"Chakotay, even though this woman has a magnet for trouble imbedded in her, do you take this woman to be your wife, to love and protect her, as if I needed to add that," Dan interjected again causing more chuckles. "To care for her in sickness and health until death do you part?"

"I will, even if it means putting my life on the line again for this dangerous woman," responded Chakotay with a big smile.

Dan grinned. "Oh boy, that means I have to brush up on my marriage ceremonies. But if you are willing to put up with her I then pronounce you man and wife, for a second time. You may kiss the bride Commander, while Admiral Dodge and I close our eyes."

"Speak for your self," said Dodge as he watched Kathryn and Chakotay tenderly and yet passionately kiss.

Kathryn broke the kiss and looked up at Dan and chuckled. "Are you sure you are licensed to do this? That was a very strange ceremony, especially with all your asides."

Admiral Dodge laughed. "I assure you he is licensed Captain, but I agree it was certainly different."

Dan laughed. "Well I knew you two were already married and it was probably a beautiful ceremony, but with all that's happened here I just thought a little humor might make this one just as memorable as the first. Come to my office tomorrow, or whenever the human sacrifice here is better," he said as he nodded to Chakotay, "and I'll give the marriage certificate. I really am legal."

Kathryn laughed. "You can bet we will and you are right. This is a ceremony that will long be remembered."

Dan grinned. "Also, I might add, that if you ever divorce, after your three-year togetherness penalty from Admiral Dodge ends, you were also married in the Delta Quadrant and that's a long way to go to get a divorce."

"Which means we will never divorce," laughed Kathryn. She looked at Admiral Dodge. "How is the clean up process going?"

"Very well actually, thanks to you two."

"And for your information I believe Admiral Dodge is going to be named Chief of Starfleet when things settle down," said Dan with a grin.

"Congratulations!" said both Kathryn and Chakotay.

"Well it hasn't happened yet and might not," grumped Dodge as he threw a glare at Dan.

Shortly after, the two men left, saying they would keep in touch.

Chakotay grinned after they left and tightened his arms around her. "You are my wife for a second time. Now you really can't get away from me. I love you so much, Kathryn," he whispered and then his eyes closed and he gradually drifted asleep.

* * * *

The media exhorted the full range of the events of course, with most of the headlines screaming about a corrupt Starfleet and inundating the Communications office with a barrage of media reporters and questions. Nothing, of course, was immediately forthcoming. Starfleet itself was in chaos and disarray with so many Admirals under arrest. After discussing it with Captain Raymond, as well as Kathryn and Chakotay, Admiral Paris, now out of the hospital and Admiral Dodge decided the only way was to call a press conference and admit the truth to the people - that the Federation had been taken over but forces were at work now to repair their public image.

At the Press Conference the next day, Admiral Dodge explained fully and in great detail what had happened and admitted that Starfleet had 'a very black eye' right now and that all the Alien Nations had a right to not trust them, but that the ship would soon be righted and Starfleet would make amends to earn their trust and confidence. The press was also told that anytime there was a nomination to fill an appointment of a 'departed Admiral' it would be announced publicly instead of being kept 'in house', with the Admiral saying with a smile to the media present, "I know you will follow up and probably help us in the investigation of that person."

Following the announcement, both Admirals stayed and kept answering questions the media fired at them. Dodge refused to leave the podium until every last question had been made and answered. He felt that was the only way, to be truthful regardless of the hurt and to make sure all answers were given and that the media would go away satisfied. Consequently the Press Conference lasted well over two hours, but both men were patient and despite the repetition of questions, answered them all.

For the next two weeks Admiral Dodge and Paris held meetings, some open to the public and some private. Nominations were made to fill the vacant positions and Admiral Dodge stated unequivocally over and over again that it was going to take a lot of time to check and double check each nomination before appointments would officially be made. Dodge welcomed the reporters investigations, saying it would help Starfleet 'clean house' should they discover more individuals who had been involved in this scheme to bring Starfleet down. It would also, he told Paris privately, to help build a bridge of trust between the media and Starfleet that previously did not exist.

Chakotay was released from the hospital after a week but went in five days a week for physical therapy. Dan came by during one of the treatments and after watching the treatment asked to speak to both Kathryn and Chakotay privately.

"Chakotay in the trial you said you were still undergoing physical therapy three days a week. A year has gone by since that incident. Why the continued treatments?" he asked.

"So many nerve endings were either injured or destroyed that my skin and body are very sensitive. Sometimes to just a touch, or it could be heat, or cold and sometimes I just plain ache all over," he said quietly with a quick look at Kathryn, who sat quietly holding his hand.

"What about your bodily functions? Any trouble with that?"

"Sometimes," replied Chakotay.

"Now this is personal but what about . . . what about you and Kathryn," he finally said with the hint of a blush.

"Why are you asking these questions?" asked Chakotay, now plainly embarrassed.

"Please answer and then I will tell you."

Chakotay looked at Kathryn and then back at Dan. "Sometimes I'm fine and yet there are times when Kathryn has to . . . take the initiative," he said his face turning red.

"Okay. The reason I'm asking is that the incident happened while you were on duty, both of them actually, as you were doing some research for me on the second incident. I am going to put through a Legal opinion, and I don't believe I will have any trouble getting it passed, stating that you should receive PT for as long as needed, and for the rest of your life if that be the case."

Both Chakotay and Kathryn smiled broadly at this. "Thank you Dan. The last time I received PT before being shot at the cabin, the doctor did say he didn't know how much longer this treatment would continue."

"I know," said Dan with a grim smile. "That's one of the reasons I'm here. Just this morning I just found a memo stashed in Branson's desk to that effect. Well, I have to get going. Take care and we'll keep in touch," and he turned and left the room. Kathryn immediately hugged Chakotay on this good news as she new of his pain, even though he never complained.

* * * *

Another two weeks passed and then Jason suddenly appeared at their door. He handed Kathryn a paper.

"It's a subpoena, Kathryn. Admiral Dodge has requested you, me, Brad and the jury, to be in court room 147 two days from now at ten hundred hours."

"What for? What's it all about?"

"I really don't know. We'll find out then." He looked over at Chakotay. "How are you doing?"

"Just fine Jason. Still a little residual soreness, but the therapy is taking care of that."

"Glad to hear it. You just have to stop stepping in front of phasers, man," he said with a light chuckle.

"I have been telling him that myself!" said Kathryn with a smile.

"Well I have to get back. I wanted to deliver that subpoena personally and explain as much as I knew, so - see you then," and he left.

At exactly 1000 hours Kathryn and Jason sat at the Defense table, Brad was sitting at the prosecution table and Chakotay was on the bench directly behind Kathryn. Captain Raymond walked in and took a seat beside Chakotay. The door suddenly opened and the jury filed in. Kathryn noted there were about three fewer people.

Then the call of "All rise," and Admiral Dodge strode in and walked briskly up on the podium and took his seat.

"Will the defendant please rise?" he said in a serious, grim voice.

Kathryn and Jason each stood and out of the corner of her eye, she noticed Brad also stood.

"Captain Janeway, about three months ago you received a sentence of three years probation for crimes committed while in the Delta Quadrant." He glanced at the jury. "As all of you are well aware, there has been a subversive movement within the ranks to disrupt and change Starfleet. This group has been and is currently being found and arrested. Captain Janeway herself is responsible for bringing this group to our attention and her filing of a Grievance resulted in this group being more open and showing they also had a tendency for violence, with the murder of Admiral James Weeks and the injuries to Admiral Paris. Captain Janeway herself came under attack and her husband Commander Chakotay once again suffered grievous, almost terminal, injuries while protecting her."

He looked back at Kathryn. "Because your previous sentence was arrived at under coercion I have made a review of same and am now making some changes to this sentence." Kathryn's heart pounded. She wondered if he was he going to make it stiffer.

"Under your previous sentence you were deemed guilty on Charge 1, Specification 3 in the attempted murder of Noah Lessing, Charge 11, Specification 4 the activating of the race known as the Vaadwaur, Charge IV, Specification 3 with regard to your pursuit of Captain Ransom and subsequent endangerment of your crew, and Charge VII, Specification 1 regarding your marriage to Commander Chakotay, a violation of Starfleet Protocol.

"I am changing the charges of guilty on Charges II, IV and VII to not guilty. You undoubtedly faced very difficult and stressful times in those seven years and I don't think any Captain would have maintained adherence to Starfleet Rules and Regulations for such a period of time as you did.

"However Charge 1, the attempted murder of Noah Lessing is a serious charge and although I was not present, it appears you 'pushed the envelope' with Mr Lessing in attempting to get the information you needed. Therefore, this charge against you remains guilty.

"Your previous sentence was three years on probation with that time to be served with various duties deemed by Starfleet, but because I have now dropped the guilty charges on three of them I am changing your sentence to one year, also on probation. For the last little while you have taught a class at the Academy and assisted Admiral Stoddard in helping to classify Voyager's database. Therefore I am dropping three months of your sentence as time served, leaving nine months.

"In addition, because it was your attempt to fight back by filing a Grievance against what you felt was unfair charges against you, all brought about by the subversive group I might add, and this act resulted in bringing this group to light and thereby helping Starfleet break up this group, I am hereby commuting your remaining sentence of nine months. Without your resistance and then assistance, this group might still be in control. There might still be a few within the ranks that we have not discovered, but Starfleet owes you a debt of gratitude and the only way we can say thank you is to commute this unjust sentence.

"I am also rescinding the directive that forbids you from Captaining a Starship, as well as the sentence that you and Commander Chakotay may never serve on the same ship. I still have personal reservations on that, but of all people, you two are the only ones that I believe could make such a command structure work. However, we are also discussing this matter in committee and a ruling will likely be made that will prevent future situations, but you are ruled a 'special class' so it won't affect you.

"That finishes the changes in your previous sentence," and he looked over at the jury. "Does the jury concur or disagree with this new verdict?"

The former foreman stood and nodded. "We concur with the new verdict your honor."

"And does the prosecution agree or disagree," the Admiral asked as he looked over at Captain Jordan.

Brad grinned. "The prosecution wholeheartedly and jubilantly agrees, your honor."

"A simple 'I agree' would have sufficed, Captain." Admiral Dodge then raised his gavel. "Before concluding this business I want to add a personal thank you to Captain Janeway as well as Commander Chakotay. You have both proven to be invaluable members of Starfleet and it has been and honor and a privilege to know you both." He nodded his head and as the gavel descended with a sharp bang, said, "Case dismissed," and rose, smiled at Kathryn and Chakotay and quickly left the room.

Kathryn turned to Jason and gave him a quick hug and then turned to look back at Chakotay, but he was already over the railing and pulled her into his arms, giving her a tight bear hug.

"Oh Kathryn, I'm so happy for you," he murmured into her hair. Then he gave her a quick kiss.

"Congratulations, Kathryn," said Dan Raymond as he leaned over the railing. She turned to him and they hugged, then she looked over at Brad Jordan, still standing at his desk, but with a big smile on his face.

Kathryn moved to him. "You are not getting away without a hug young man," and as she put her arms around him, his face flushed deep red, but the glint in his eye showed great pride.

"I suggest we all go for a cold drink," said Dan.

"I would love to, but my husband has a therapy appointment the minute this was over. Can we get a rain check?" asked Kathryn

"Of course," he said. "But don't keep me waiting too long. I just might file a grievance against you," he said with a chuckle. Then he reached inside his tunic. "I planned on giving this to you at lunch, but will do it now. It is a legal paper that guarantees your PT for life, Chakotay," he said as he handed it to him.

Kathryn immediately grabbed Dan in a big hug, much to his embarrassment and he said, "Kathryn, I already told you I was spoken for!" which caused everyone to laugh. Chakotay then gave him a hearty handshake and a slap on the back and Dan left 'to continue straightening out this nasty business.'

A week later as Kathryn and Chakotay sat quietly in their front room there was a knock on the door. They had been at therapy all morning and now wanted some quiet time together, so Kathryn frowned as she rose.

"I wonder who that is?" she grumped.

As she opened the door she was surprised to see Admiral Dodge, Admiral Paris and Admiral Spencer. In the back she caught sight of Captain Raymond.

"Well, well, what brings such esteemed guests to our door," she asked as she opened it and invited them in.

"Sorry if we are interrupting Captain," said Admiral Dodge, "But we have some business we would like to discuss with you and thought being in a home atmosphere would be nice."

Kathryn indicated for them all to be seated and then took a seat beside Chakotay.

"It all sounds mysterious and with such an esteemed group I admit to feeling a bit nervous."

"Oh I wouldn't call it mysterious, Kathryn," said Owen. "But first I am wondering . . . have you decided what you are going to do now that your sentence has been rescinded and dismissed? Are you going to ask for another ship?"

Kathryn smiled and looked at Chakotay. "We have discussed it, but . . ."

"Before you make a decision in that regard, Captain," interrupted Admiral Dodge, "I have a proposal for you."

Chakotay sat up and with a mischievous grin on his face said, "That would result in my possibly cold cocking an Admiral. Kathryn is married to me, remember?"

Everyone laughed and Dodge quipped, "I did not word that quite the way I intended Commander. Believe me I don't care to be knocked on my keister by you. Let me rephrase it."

Kathryn smiled and replied, "This is all sounding quite serious."

"Not really Kathryn," smiled Owen Paris. "You might even like it." He then looked at Admiral Dodge. "Try again Chester."

"It's really quite simple, Captain. As you are aware we are revising all the departments and their corresponding personnel and person in charge, due to 'that' disruption, and in our discussions for replacements your name came up in our Review Committee meeting this morning. We would like to offer you a promotion to Admiral and to be the Chief Executive of Personnel. I realize this isn't flying a Starship around in space but your integrity is sorely needed at Starfleet. Would you be interested?"

"I'm very flattered," she said as Chakotay smiled, "but to be honest I . . ."

"Don't say no yet Kathryn. Think it over," said Paris.

"Captain Raymond should be given a promotion and be in charge of a division," said Kathryn quickly.

"I have been offered a position, Kathryn," said Dan. "But like I told the Admiral, I like being a Captain and I'm also not sure how long I want to remain in Starfleet."

"Dan, I have just three years left before I retire. Don't you dare leave before then," grumped Admiral Dodge.

Dan grinned. "Okay, I will stay at your side until then Admiral, but five minutes later I will resign. Deal?"

"It's a deal," said Chester with a big smile. He then looked back at Kathryn. "Just say you will think about it Captain."

Kathryn looked at the floor a moment. When she looked up her expression was quite serious. "Admiral as I said I am flattered but Starfleet has changed so much. I have been shocked at what has happened and that such a group could gain control of Starfleet. How could this have happened anyway?"

"It was slow and there were probably some tentacles being put out even in your last year here before heading after Chakotay. Some of us saw or felt it but just turned our heads, thinking it wouldn't happen."

"But you Owen," said Kathryn as she looked at him. "You seemed to be in their control."

He looked embarrassed. "Actually I started out agreeing with them because Starfleet does have to change on some ideas. Then I realized their full intent and backed out. However, as I had originally been within their 'grasp' so to speak, they threatened to expose me and it would be one against the group, so I was forced to go along on some things and became the goat, if you will, on telling you about the charges and upcoming court martial. I couldn't even offer you support. I'm sorry. I have offered my resignation to Chester, but he has refused it, saying he needs my help."

"Well it certainly has been an eye-opener for me. I feel ashamed to be connected to Starfleet, but I'm sure you gentlemen will clean it up."

"Let's get back to the question at hand. Will you consider our proposal, Captain?" asked Dodge. "We need good people like you and the Commander to get Starfleet back on their feet."

Kathryn looked at Chakotay who smiled and said, "Your decision sweetheart."

"You have some very excellent people within the ranks, Admiral. Young Ensign Dixon and Lt Sutton for two, but to be honest, I don't need to think about it Admiral, because you see, Chakotay and I have spent the last two weeks, actually longer than that but the last two weeks in serious conversation, and we have decided to tender our resignations to Starfleet. As you know I have spent all my adult life in Starfleet and before that my daddy was in Starfleet, so this decision has been a hard one to make.

"I just love my husband so much and after what he has gone through for me we have decided to spend all our time together. We were together on Voyager for seven years, yes, but I was a stubborn woman then who almost lost the most wonderful man in the world. Then because I challenged the verdict I almost lost him again. I don't want to chance that . . . ever again, and if we are away from Starfleet and just enjoying the private life of citizens, I feel we will have a good life together, without all the danger."

"But if you become Admiral you will be serving right here and be together," protested Admiral Paris.

"I know Owen, but it won't be the same. Chakotay won't be in that office and as I said, we want to spend time with one another and not have duty, honor and country come between us for periods of time. We plan to travel to his homeland Dorvan V and find his village and maybe some of his old friends. And we also want to travel to Vulcan and see Tuvok and T'Pel and then around this country and just relax and enjoy ourselves, maybe build a nice home in some quiet place. I'm sure you can understand that."

"I understand Captain," said Admiral Spencer. "I'm a family man and it makes a lot of sense to me. But also," he said hopefully, "maybe this means you will be willing to teach a class at the Academy once in a while."

Kathryn smiled. "Chakotay and I enjoyed that month Admiral, and I'm sure we might be coerced to teach again sometime."

"Ron you were supposed to be on our side," grumped Admiral Dodge.

Dan laughed. "I told you she wouldn't accept Admiral."

"Oh don't get on your high horse Daniel," said Dodge. "Just because you are right doesn't earn any brownie points with me."

Everyone laughed and Dan replied, "I just know people Admiral. You should try it sometime." Everyone laughed louder.

Kathryn said, "We might be coerced to be on your Review Committee for awhile to help evaluate people. We have been out of touch, do not have any pre-conceived ideas or notions about any individuals, and can give a completely unbiased opinion. But as to the offer, although greatly honored, the answer is definitely no. Tomorrow we are planning on coming in and tendering our official resignations."

"Well I'm sorry to lose such wonderful people but I accept your offer on the Review Committee. I will propose it tomorrow and you will be admitted in an Alumnus category."

"Thank you Admiral. Well I owe you a drink," said Kathryn as she rose. "How about some Iced Tea? We have a lovely shady spot out back and we can just sit and enjoy the weather."

"I'm for that," replied Dan, "And I'm sure Mr. Grumpy here would like it also," he said as he looked at Admiral Dodge, who stood and replied, "Remind me to fire you when we get back to the office," and then headed for the kitchen to help Kathryn gather the glasses as Dan, Chakotay and Admiral's Spencer and Paris roared with laughter.

Later that night as Kathryn lay in Chakotay's arms, she sighed.

He tightened his arms around her. "Are you sorry you are going to resign from Starfleet? You know I'll go along with whatever you decide."

"I'm not sorry at all. Being with you is all I want for the rest of my life, as long as you don't play 'being a good First Officer' again."

He chuckled and tightened his arms around her and they were quiet a moment and then Chakotay said, "You know, I just don't know whether it's safe being around you. The first time I met you we get stuck in the Delta Quadrant for seven years, then we get home and you go through a Court Martial, then we have to go into hiding because you file a Grievance against Starfleet and it puts your life in danger, then we are attacked . . . you are a very dangerous woman to be around, Kathryn"

Kathryn giggled and then snuggled into his arms and replied, "I know, but you love me anyway."

"That I do, Kathryn Janeway. I love you so much you will never know how deep it is."

She raised her head. "Oh I think I do. The fact you saved my life twice protecting me . . . that has to mean something" She grinned then and added, "I don't know what, but it must mean something," she finished with a laugh as she put her head back down on his shoulder. After getting comfortable she continued.

"But I know this . . . I love you with every fiber of my being. I have never known such complete happiness and contentment as I enjoy being your wife. I never thought it possible to love some one as much as I love you. I am going to make up those seven years to you, honey, so be prepared to be stuck with me in your life forever."

He tightened his arms around her and replied, "I'm glad because that makes me the luckiest man in the world." Then he chuckled, causing Kathryn to question what was going on in his devious mind now.

"I just can't believe the only way I got through to you was when I almost died!"

Kathryn smiled tenderly and then murmured softly, "Sometimes I can be pretty stubborn," then immediately raised her head and said, "Not a word from you Chakotay!" Both laughed in delight and tightened their arms around each other, sighing in complete comfort and satisfaction.

He then raised his head, and after placing his face on his hand and leaned on his elbow, said with great emotion, "I love you Kathryn" and leaning forward placed his lips on hers.

Kathryn smiled as their lips parted and murmured "It's been a long time, sweetheart," and they kissed again and as the intensity of their kiss increased, and their bodies reacted, each knew that despite anything that happened from now on, they would not only be together for the rest of their lives, but that they were meant to be together, that they were Soulmates through infinity.

Little did they know that Kathryn was still a target, that even now plans for her demise were being formulated.

April 2002

To be continued with Book Four, "The Reprisal"

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