Disclaimer: Paramount owns all things Trek. No infringement is intended - I'm just using some of the characters in my story.

The Family Series - Book One

Silence Is A Sound

by Dee Price


"Kathryn, you can't stay in your quarters like this, not doing anything - not talking. You have to come out on the Bridge," said Chakotay in a calm, yet insistent and strong voice.

Kathryn remained silent as she sat in her chair and stared out the view port.

"Please Kathryn. This action is not doing you any good - it's just not helping at all. You have been in here for over three weeks."

Again he was rebuffed with a stony silence.

"Kathryn - speak to me!"

Kathryn turned her head and glanced at Chakotay before turning back to the window, but in that brief glance Chakotay saw it. The pain and anguish etched deep within her eyes.

"Kathryn, this is the third time since The Void that you have fallen into this depression. Let me take you to the Doctor or if you prefer, we can beam him here so you can be examined and treated. At the very least he can give you some anti-depressant."

She simply crossed her arms over her chest and remained silent.

Chakotay stared at her, a feeling of helplessness washing over him. He raised his arms and let them fall limply to his side as he shook his head. "You can't keep blaming yourself for what happened at the Caretaker's Array. Everyone else on this ship has accepted that decision and moved on."

As Chakotay saw the lack of response he felt his face flush. "It's about time you did the same!" he said with anger in his voice.

Kathryn raised her hand and gave a slight wave and in that motion Chakotay knew he had been dismissed. He stood still, continuing to stare at her for a few more minutes, then heaving a big and audible sigh turned and left the room, hesitated a moment in the corridor then headed for the Bridge.

As he strode onto the Bridge he felt, rather than saw, everyone turn and look at him. Walking down to his chair he looked back at Tuvok.

"Anything to report, Mr. Tuvok?"

"No, Commander. Everything is quiet; there is nothing to report. Might I ask the same of you?"

Chakotay merely shook his head, and then said softly, "Nothing."

A week went by with the same results. Each morning and evening, Chakotay would go into Kathryn's quarters, only to be met with the same thing - total silence. In addition, she was always in the same position in her chair, causing Chakotay to wonder whether her nights were also spent there. He debated disobeying orders and beaming the Doctor to her quarters, but delayed that decision. Each time this depressive behavior had happened before she had suddenly come out of it and walked on the Bridge acting like her self, as if nothing had happened. So he waited.

Another week went by with no change. Chakotay even had B'Elanna come to the Ready Room one morning and told her, "This is the worst she has ever been. I'm worried she's not going to come out of it this time. It's been over five weeks." They talked for a while longer, but neither was able to come up with a plausible course of action.

Three days later Harry reported they were coming up on an M Class planet that looked unpopulated, save for one tiny area on the far side. Sensors showed the planet to have trees, other greenery, water and the air was breathable, so why wasn't this planet populated Chakotay wondered? Entering orbit, Chakotay ordered Tuvok and B'Elanna, along with two Security Personnel to beam down and exam an unpopulated area. Perhaps there were minerals Voyager could use.

Thirty minutes later Tuvok reported it was a habitable planet, yet no trace of anyone having lived in this particular area. Readings also showed few minerals that could be used. Just as Chakotay was getting ready to order them to return to Voyager, B'Elanna added that it was a beautiful spot and suggested it might be a place the crew could just stretch their legs for an hour or two.

Making a quick decision, Chakotay decided they would orbit for one day, give everyone two hours off the ship to relax, and informed Tuvok to start hourly rotations immediately. Six hours later Chakotay beamed down to see the area for himself.

B'Elanna was right. This particular space was beautiful. Nice tall trees, many shrubs and wild flowers and a nearby stream just off the large clearing. He sat down on the grass and closed his eyes, mentally trying to refresh his mind. Most of the crew on this rotation were doing the same thing, with some stretched out on the grass and others walking around, but all enjoying and absorbing the sunshine and fresh air.

Suddenly an idea crossed Chakotay's mind and he stood, hailed the ship to be beamed back and immediately headed for Kathryn's quarters.

"It will do you good to get off the ship, Kathryn. And if you want privacy I can delay the next rotation for a couple of hours."

Unexpectedly Kathryn stood and while still not uttering a word, Chakotay sensed she was willing to beam down to the planet. He hailed Tuvok and asked when the next rotation was scheduled.

"We are in the process of beaming the group on the planet back now, Commander. The next rotation should start in less than fifteen minutes."

"How many remain on the planet?"

"The last group is gathering now."

"All right. Delay the next rotation for two hours. I'll explain later, Tuvok. And when this last group is back have the Transporter Chief contact me."

Tuvok was silent a moment and Chakotay guessed he had already checked the origin of his hail, knew he was in Kathryn's quarters and what he was about to do.

"Understood, Commander," finally came the reply.

Ten minutes later the Transporter Chief contacted Chakotay and was instructed to initiate a site-to-site transport for himself and Captain Janeway. Once down on the planet, Chakotay kept his distance, letting Kathryn wander on her own, but always keeping her in sight. Finally she sat down and Chakotay walked over to her.

"It's beautiful isn't it?" he said, not expecting any response. "This fresh air should make you feel better," he added as he sat down beside her.

After an hour Kathryn rose and just looked at him, indicating in that glance she was ready to go back. "You have another hour, Kathryn," he protested softly, "Take advantage of it." She simply shook her head.

Back in Kathryn's quarters, Chakotay informed Tuvok he could start the last group's rotation and turned to leave.

"Chakotay."

Startled at suddenly hearing her speak for the first time in over five weeks he whirled around. She was standing and looking in his direction.

"Yes?" he said his heart racing.

"When the last group is back on board report back here," she said in a wooden voice, then turned and once again sat in her chair, crossing her arms over her chest and then swung her left leg over her right. His sudden elation deflated like a pricked balloon, he turned and left.

Two and one- half hours later, Chakotay again entered Kathryn's quarters - only what he saw shocked him.

She was dressed in civilian clothes and had two boxes stacked in the middle of the room. He looked at the boxes as he walked over to her and took the Data Padd she was extending towards him.

As he stood and read it his heart started to pound. "What is this, Kathryn?"

"A list of the things I'll probably need. I'm leaving the ship Chakotay. I'm going to live on this planet and I am immediately appointing you Captain."

"You're what!" he exploded.

"Exactly what I said. I'm leaving the ship in your hands. I'm not fit to command any more and haven't done my job for sometime now. I'm no good to the ship or it's crew in my state of mind, so I am leaving."

"I wont accept that decision and I turn down being Captain! You can't do this, Kathryn!"

"I can and I am! I'm giving you a direct order, Commander. I'm beaming down to the planet now and I expect that list to be filled and beamed down within the hour."

"No, Kathryn! Let's talk about it, please. You just can't desert us like this!"

She walked over beside her boxes, tapped her Com Badge, said quietly "Ready" and looking at Chakotay said, "Get this ship home Chakotay - promise me that. And don't even think of returning for me. Give me your word, please. If I mean anything to you as your Captain, give me your word you will get this ship home."

Chakotay stood dumbfounded, in profound shock. All he could do was stare at her.

"Goodbye, Chakotay," she said softly, then added "Now" and disappeared in a shimmering blue light.

Chakotay felt like his heart had just been ripped out of his chest as he stared in disbelief at where Kathryn had been standing. Regaining his senses, he slapped his badge and yelled, "Transporter Room, Get the Captain back here!"

There was a moment of silence. Then - "Sorry, sir, the Captain has somehow put a block on her badge. I can't get a lock on her."

"Then beam me down there, damn it!"

Chakotay appeared by the two boxes and looked wildly around. Spotting Kathryn sitting on a little rise he ran over to her.

"Just what the hell do you think you are doing?"

"Get back on the ship, Chakotay," she said as she turned and faced him, her blue eyes blazing in anger.

"No! You just can't say you are going to leave the ship."

Kathryn looked at Chakotay for a moment, then slowly reached to her Com Badge, did something with it that Chakotay couldn't see, and quietly said, "Transporter Room, beam Commander Chakotay back to the ship and then you have my direct order to block all future individual transports. No one is to beam down here, understand!"

As Chakotay felt the tingle of the transporter he heard "Yes, Captain."

Once back on the ship Chakotay raced from the Transporter Room towards the Ready Room, hailing Tuvok to meet him there. As he ran in Tuvok was already there

"You look distressed, Commander," said Tuvok calmly.

Chakotay explained what had happened and other than an eyebrow arching up, Tuvok displayed no emotion. For more than twenty minutes they discussed the events and Kathryn's decision. Finally Tuvok said aloud what both knew was the only answer. "The Captain is quite stubborn about her decisions, and once her mind is made up, which it obviously is in this matter, nothing will change it, Commander."

Chakotay sat, shattered emotionally and trembling physically for several minutes. Finally he nodded his head. "There are some things she didn't include on the list," he said so softly that anyone other than a Vulcan would never have heard him. "Let's go over it together then start packing things up."

Down on the planet Kathryn sat calmly awaiting her supplies. She knew Chakotay was not only upset but also shattered, and it would take him awhile to calm down before assembling her list. She was happy and content with her decision. Chakotay would be a good Captain and get everyone home, and this wasn't a bad place to live out the rest of her life. An hour later packing crates began to appear.

*****

The next morning, with Voyager still orbiting the planet, and having received no orders to depart, the ship was buzzing with the rumor the Captain was staying behind. Chakotay walked onto the Bridge holding a Data Padd and everyone turned and looked at him expectantly. Tom winced as he looked at Chakotay. It was obvious he hadn't slept all night with those deep black circles under his eyes, and pain was deeply embedded in his face.

"Ships wide communication, Mr. Tuvok," he said, his voice croaking with emotion.

"All channels are open, Commander."

"All hands, this is Commander Chakotay." He looked down at the Padd for a moment and then continued. "The rumor you are currently hearing is true. Captain Janeway has decided to remain on this planet. I have a communiqué from her that I will now read." He took a deep breath trying desperately to control his emotions and then began: "To everyone on Voyager. By now you have heard I am remaining on this planet. With the reading of this, I officially promote Chakotay to Captain and place Voyager under his command. He may choose his own First Officer. This is my decision and I know I will be happy here. You have been a good crew, a wonderful crew . . . I'm just sorry I couldn't have been a better Captain. Chakotay will get you home of that I'm sure, plus he has given me his word and I trust him implicitly in this. Good luck and goodbye to you all."

Chakotay hesitated a moment, looking down at the floor, before continuing. "This is stressful news for us all. I tried desperately, but could not talk Captain Janeway out of this decision. In fact, nothing I tried worked, or had a chance of working. Her mind was made up."

Looking up to Tuvok he said, "I am immediately promoting Lt. Commander Tuvok to full Commander. He will be my First Officer, if he is willing."

Tuvok nodded and Chakotay indicated for him to join him. "I am also promoting Lt. Torres to Lt. Commander and transferring her from Engineering to Tactical Operations Officer, and with that putting Lt. Duquesne in charge of Engineering, based on Lt Torres recommendation." B'Elanna, standing just inside the doors immediately moved to Tuvok's old station. "Voyager will make it back to Earth, I promise you that. Good luck to everyone. That is all."

Chakotay turned and just stared at the Captain's chair, and then said softly to Tom, "Take us out of orbit, Tom, one-quarter Impulse. Mr. Tuvok you have the Bridge." He then turned and strode quickly out the doors and headed for his quarters, where for the next three hours he sat staring out his View port, even as Kathryn had done. A solitary tear coursed its way slowly down his cheek. Eventually he returned to the Bridge, but sat uneasily on the very edge of the Captain's chair.

The following day an uneasy pall permeated the entire ship. Chakotay sat quietly in the Captain's chair all day, hardly moving a muscle, his distress very evident. Thankfully it proved to be an uneventful day and Voyager continued in one-quarter Impulse toward the Alpha Quadrant.

Early in the morning of the second day, Alpha shift was busy taking over from Gamma when Chakotay walked in. He stopped on the upper landing, glanced around and finally looked down to Tuvok who was now standing facing him. Nodding his head Chakotay turned and headed for the Ready Room.

As Tuvok started to follow he turned to B'Elanna and said, "You have the Bridge, Lt. Torres," then disappeared behind the closing doors. B'Elanna watched the doors close and then moved to the Commander's seat without a word, ignoring Tom's pointed stare.

Two hours later Chakotay and Tuvok returned to the Bridge. Tom looked closely at their faces and as usual could glean no information from Tuvok's impassive face, but Chakotay's eyes seemed to have a little less pain. Whatever they had discussed, it seemed Tuvok had helped Chakotay accept the situation.

*******

Kathryn sat on the grass shivering. She had spent her first two nights out in the open, not feeling up to putting up her shelter, and now wished she had gotten right to it. She had discovered the evenings were chilly on this planet and now sat mentally deciding where to erect her shelter. Heaving a big sigh she stood and promptly moaned at the complaint of such movement from her stiff muscles, and walked slowly to the large crates and started pulling out panels. Joining two together she set them up, turned and headed back for more when she heard a whoosh of air and a soft thud. Looking back she saw the two panels now lying on the ground.

Over the next two hours Kathryn struggled mightily to get one wall up and wished fervently she had paid more attention when Chakotay had built their home on New Earth. Sitting down in disgust she looked at the situation and wondered how on earth she was going to put the roof on when that time came. Waving her hand in resignation, she rose and walked across the large clearing and down to the stream, where she removed her boots and stockings, sat down on the bank and plunged her feet into the water.

She reacted with a screech at the icy water and jerked her feet out. Then setting her jaw she once again placed her feet in the stream, determined to get used to the cold. Finally not feeling the cold as much she sighed and laid back, closing her eyes. After a short time she patted her feet dry with the towel hanging around her neck and picking up her boots and socks walked over to a tree, sat and leaned back, her mind on her decision and present situation. She felt sure she would make it, but it was going to be awfully lonely, of that she was most sure.

An hour passed and realizing this wasn't getting anything done, she sighed, put her socks and boots back on, and headed back across the open plain and started working on another wall.

Suddenly she heard a muffled sound and straightening up listened intently. Again she heard it and putting her hand in her pocket pulled out her Com Badge that she had shoved in her pocket two days ago. Then she heard it loud and clear.

"Chakotay to Janeway."

Squeezing the badge she angrily said, "Chakotay! What are you doing back here? I ordered you not to return!"

"Voyager is well on its way, Kathryn," came the reply.

"I shouldn't be able to hear you if you . . . " She suddenly whirled around and saw Chakotay walking across the field.

As he saw her turn he smiled and called out, "Need some help?"

"What are you doing here?' she demanded. "I left you in charge of Voyager!"

"Voyager is in good hands, Kathryn," he said as he drew up to her. "I promoted Tuvok to Captain and B'Elanna to First Officer and Tuvok will handle all the other transfers and assignments. Also, knowing Tuvok and his Vulcan stubbornness he will get Voyager home."

He looked closely at her and saw Kathryn's eyes were snapping with anger.

"You really didn't expect me to go off and leave you here all alone did you?" he asked softly.

"I certainly did! This was my decision. You had no right to go against my orders!" and with that she stomped away.

Chakotay hesitated only a fraction of a second before going after her, took hold of both shoulders and turned her around. "You're not my Captain anymore, Kathryn, and I'm not your First Officer!" Suddenly he pulled her tight to him and putting his arms around her said, "I love you Kathryn, I have loved you from the beginning and I can say it now and you no longer have the excuse of the ship to hold me at arm's distance. You mean more to me than anything else in the world and there was no way I was going to leave you here all alone - but I had to let you think I was following orders, at least for awhile. I love you so very much."

Pulling back he looked at her and quietly said, "We can make it, Kathryn, you and I. If you want to stay angry with me you can. If you don't want to talk you don't have to, but you can't stay angry or silent forever. Meanwhile I'm here. I told you once I would never leave you, I would stay at your side and help you and protect you. I love you more than words could ever say, and I'm not leaving you. I'm here to stay, whether you like it or not."

As Kathryn stood there listening to him the hard anger showing in her eyes slowly began to dissolve and soften. Suddenly she felt the weight of the world dropping from her shoulders and as that shadowy monster that had gripped her head like a vice these last few months released and faded away, an immense feeling of relief flooded her senses and body. She felt free! Her eyes and brain now clear, she looked closely at this man standing before her, insisting he wasn't going to leave her and that he loved her. In that instant she knew this was right - that this moment and Chakotay's returning was meant to be. As her deeply hidden feelings for Chakotay began to rise to the surface, she didn't fight them off this time, but let her love for this man fill her being. She started to smile - yes, this was what she wanted. They could make it here in this wilderness, the two of them together and as Chakotay stopped talking and looked at her, her smile broadened.

Impulsively she put her arms around his neck and sliding one hand through his hair pulled his head down and kissed him deeply, with both moaning in the sweetness of this long-wanted moment. Finally their lips parted and Kathryn smiled shyly.

"I should be angry as hell at you for this," she said, her voice choked with emotion, "but in reality, I'm very glad you came back. You are my salvation, Chakotay, and I do love you - I love you so much and as you - from the beginning." They kissed again and then just stood silently with their arms around each other, their hearts pounding in rhythm and smiles of happiness on their faces.

Finally, Chakotay turned his head and looked over at her shelter and smiled.

"Don't you say a word, Sweetheart," she admonished as she pulled back. "I would have figured it out eventually."

Unable to restrain himself any longer he burst out laughing. Kathryn frowned as she looked at him, then looked at the shelter and started giggling. "It does look rather anemic doesn't it?" she managed to choke out, and both stood laughing for a few moments. Regaining control and turning serious she asked, "How did the ship take your leaving . . . or maybe I should say my leaving?"

"Well first of all, they were all shocked at your leaving, then I think they actually started a pool as to how soon I would head back. Right after I transported all your supplies I knew I wasn't going to leave you here alone and started formulating my plan. On the morning of the second day I discussed it with Tuvok for two hours. He came to my quarters last evening, assisted me in the final plan and we spent most of the night packing a shuttle and going over promotions and assignments.

"Tuvok agreed with your coming back here?"

"Virtually pushed me out the door. Said I would be very unhappy if I stayed and that ‘it would be best if you leave immediately, Captain', before we are too far away," Chakotay said in a passable imitation of Tuvok's voice.

Kathryn smiled. "Ever the wise Tuvok. What about the Bridge crew? Tom, Harry, B'Elanna . . . and I assume you promoted B'Elanna - she is so deserving."

"Yep, first to Lt. Commander to take over Tuvok's position and now to Commander and First Officer. Everyone else seemed happy for me and at the shuttle as I got ready to leave this morning Tom actually hugged me and said 'we'll come back for you guys. Just don't die before then' and I assured him we wouldn't."

Kathryn laughed in delight and Chakotay looked at her and smiled as he placed his hands on her shoulders. "It's so good to see you smiling and laughing again. You look better already."

She nodded. "I was bad Chakotay, it was the worst I have ever felt. I just couldn't seem to pull out of it as hard as I tried. Finally I knew I had to leave the ship for the good of everyone and as you know, fortune intervened and we came upon this planet."

He nodded somberly knowing it was he who had gotten her off the ship to see this place, and putting his arms around her pulled Kathryn close and hugged her tightly. Finally he looked up at the sky. "It will be dark before long. Walk with me to the Shuttle. This clearing is so large we can park it nearby until we get the supplies I brought unloaded and our home built. In the meantime we can scrunch up in the Shuttle tonight if we have to."

Kathryn stopped and looked at him, a combination of awe and surprise in her face. "Our home," she murmured. "I love the sound of that my dearest."

Chakotay smiled at the endearment and then impulsively scooped her up in his arms and started heading in the direction of the Shuttle, while Kathryn squealed in delight. "Glad to see you are feeling better sweetheart," muttered Chakotay, "but are you sure you didn't gain weight during your two days of freedom?"

They both laughed as Chakotay imitated having difficulty carrying her until finally he put her down as they entered the trees. About 50 yards in there was a small clearing where Chakotay had deftly settled the Shuttle.

"This is why I didn't hear you come in," she said. Then with a smirk added, "And not a scratch or dent on it."

Chakotay playfully swatted her on the shoulder as they entered the Shuttle, then said, "Wanted to surprise you and I guess I did," he said as he started the engines and the Shuttle lifted off the ground.

After putting the craft down in the clearing they immediately started unloading the panels Chakotay had brought, then unloaded all the rest of the panels from her packing crates. Next they found the I Beams and put them in a pile. Kathryn looked at them for a moment then looked up at Chakotay. "I told you I would figure it out. Those are for supporting the roof aren't they?"

Chakotay grinned, and then glancing at the sky said, "No use even starting the house, it's getting dark already. Tomorrow I'll build our home, and as we have now made room in the Shuttle we can spend the night there." Kathryn nodded her head and barely glanced at him so he walked over to her, took hold of her shoulders and said "And you can trust me

Kathryn."

She smiled and said softly, "I never doubted that for a minute."

The air was already turning chilly so they moved inside the Shuttle, where Chakotay gathered up all the blankets and laid them down on the floor, trying secretly to give Kathryn a few more folds so the floor wouldn't be so hard. He quickly replicated sandwiches for them and then they lay down and tried to get as comfortable as they could on the hard surface. Unable to sleep, they talked for over an hour before Kathryn drifted off into a deep slumber. In the middle of the night she turned on her side and placed her head on Chakotay's shoulder. Startled, he lay there a few minutes then drifted back to sleep, a small smile on his lips.

The next morning both groaned as they started to rise, causing each to burst out laughing. "That floor was pretty hard," grumbled Chakotay.

"Yes, but the pillow I had was nice," said Kathryn. They both smiled.

After a quick Breakfast, they started building their home. Chakotay barely took a breath, stopping only to drink some water or eat a cold sandwich Kathryn brought him, while gratefully accepted the kiss and hug that went with each. As their home started to take shape Chakotay suddenly stopped, looked at Kathryn, and with his face very serious walked over to her.

"There is one thing I insist on before I go any further honey, and no parameters."

"That's two things," Kathryn said with a smirk.

Shrugging his shoulders and grinning he said, "Okay I didn't quite say it right, it's two things - but we have only one bed, only one bedroom . . . and that's where no parameters comes in," he added with an impish smile.

Kathryn quietly looked at him for a moment then said coyly, "Well, you know what that means."

Chakotay put his arms around her and smiling said, "Yes I do, sweetheart. Just think of it as an additional declaration of our love," then he kissed her. "You have no idea how long I have wanted to kiss those lips," he murmured.

"My lips? I suppose you didn't notice I couldn't keep my eyes off your lips," she whispered.

"Not once," Chakotay lied, only to receive a punch on the arm.

By evening the home was almost finished except for putting the furnishings inside. Included was one bedroom, another room that could be divided if need be, a small alcove that could serve as the kitchen, and an enlarged living area.

As they stood looking at it Chakotay said, "Tomorrow we'll get the furnishings inside and then I will build a 'cellar' out back with the remaining panels. That will hold the vegetables from the garden we'll have. Turning, they entered the shuttle and prepared for another night on the Shuttle's hard floor.

The next day the few remaining chores were quickly taken care of. The bed and furnishings were moved inside and set up and the cellar was built, with enough panels left over to build a shed, which stored any remaining items from the crates or Shuttle. All of this accomplished, Chakotay moved the Shuttle to the far edge of the clearing beside the trees.

Upon rejoining Kathryn, they joined hands and walked into the house. Both looked around, and then put their arms around each other, with Kathryn placing her head on Chakotay's shoulder as she emitted a contented sigh. They were now ready to spend the rest of their lives here - in their new home.

Fifteen Years Later

 

Chakotay and Kathryn lay on the grass watching their children play Tag. Adam, their first born son, was eleven years old, had brown hair and eyes and the quiet, mature one of the group, loved both his parents dearly but had a closer affinity to his mother. The middle child was a girl, Katie, nine years old. Chakotay had insisted on naming her after Kathryn in some way and they had compromised on Katie. She had reddish blonde hair and electric blue eyes, shy to a degree yet not afraid to stand up for her rights against her brothers, and yes, a little stubborn like her mother. Jonathan, the youngest, was six years old and the livewire of the three, worshipped his dad, loved the land and respectful of nature, was enthusiastic and inquisitive about everything, and had more energy than his brother and sister combined. In addition, he was almost Chakotay's double, having wavy black hair, dark brown eyes, dimples and the sensuous lips of his father.

Both Kathryn and Chakotay smiled as the children, tiring of tag, changed to Leap Frog. Their laughter and squeals reverberated through the area as Adam tried to leap over Jonathan, only to have Jonathan deliberately collapse flat on the ground, thus sending Adam tumbling into Katie and knocking her over. All three rolled on the ground laughing raucously.

Kathryn, laughing uproariously herself, rolled over into Chakotay's arms and placing her head on his shoulder asked, "Did you ever play Tag and Leap Frog as a boy, hon?"

Still laughing at his children Chakotay could manage only a shake of his head. Finally he said, "I never heard of Leap Frog until you taught it to Adam and Katie."

Kathryn giggled thinking back on that time and said, "Yes and you were so big the children had to crawl over you instead of leaping."

"Well it was all right until you climbed on my back. The kids jumped on, too, and it knocked me flat on the ground with all three of you landing on top of me and squished all my air out. I thought I was going to die!"

They both flopped back on the grass laughing at the memory of that moment, and then suddenly became aware the children were now yelling in a tone not consistent with their play. Sitting up Chakotay looked over at them and saw all three looking up, with Adam pointing and yelling "Mom, Dad, look! Look at that!"

Chakotay glanced over his shoulder then quickly scrambled to his feet, grabbing Kathryn's hand and pulling her up. As Kathryn saw what the children were pointing at she called out, "Children - come over here, quickly," and all three ran over with Chakotay motioning them to get behind their parents. Katie ducked behind Kathryn, grabbing one of her legs and peered out by her right hip, while Adam took a position slightly between his parents and Jonathan moved in behind his dad, grabbed Chakotay's pants and peeked out from the side of his leg, his eyes wide.

A ship was slowly descending to the ground out near their Shuttle. "Where are the phasers, Sweetheart?" asked Chakotay softly. "We don't know whether they are friendly or not."

"They are stowed at the bottom of one of the dresser drawers," answered Kathryn. "I'm not even sure they work anymore." Her reply was quiet, with an underlying tone of uncertainty. Squinting her eyes she suddenly said, "If I'm remembering right, the markings appear to be Starfleet."

"That doesn't mean anything," Chakotay said in an edgy voice, and they all stood silently watching the ship settle on the ground. Everything remained quiet for a few minutes, then the door slid open and soon a civilian stepped out, followed by a woman and a man in uniform. The trio looked over at them, hesitated briefly then started walking towards them.

The distance was too far to see the faces clearly, but the walks were unmistakable. "It's Tuvok, B'Elanna and Harry!" whispered a shocked Chakotay.

Jonathan, hearing names he had heard stories about all his life, darted out from behind Chakotay and raced like a deer across the field. Adam and Katie, caught off guard, but also recognizing the names, yelled, "Hey, wait a minute!" and started sprinting in the direction of the trio. B'Elanna waved and Kathryn, now smiling broadly, waved back as she and Chakotay started a quick pace towards the group.

Jonathan skidded to a stop as he reached them and Harry, after a couple of seconds, bent down and scooped Jonathan into the air, swinging him up and around his head so he was now sitting on Harry's shoulders. Adam and Katie raced up about this time and trying to be more mature, Adam extended his hand to all three, followed in suit by Katie. As both groups continued towards each other big smiles could now be seen on all faces, except of course, Tuvok.

As the groups came together, Kathryn grabbed and hugged B'Elanna fiercely, while Chakotay, mindless of a Vulcan's pre-disposition to not be touched, grabbed Tuvok in a bear hug, then did the same with B'Elanna and Harry. The babble of greetings, hugs, tears, smiles and laughter continued unabated for several minutes. All the while Jonathan, who had been put down by Harry when the two groups came together, kept jumping up and down and shouting "We Have visitors, Dad. We have visitors, Mom. It's your friends!" Adam tried in vain to quiet him.

Finally the commotion settled down, and as Kathryn wiped at a tear on her cheek, she said, "I thought I would never see any of you again." Then looking at Tuvok, "My dear friend, I assume this means you made it back to Earth."

"Indeed Captain. Ten years after we left you we happened upon a wormhole that led us directly into the Alpha Quadrant and only a short seven hours journey to Earth. Unfortunately it took Starfleet three years to develop our specifications for the Transwarp Conduit without it burning out. Eventually we had to devise a combination of Transwarp and Slipstream to avoid that problem. Then another year of testing before they started installing it on the ships."

"And," interjected Harry, "Another six months of red tape on our request for a mission to come back here and get you. They kept saying we don't even know if they are still there or even alive. They might have been dead for years."

B'Elanna continued the story with, "And we kept telling them all the more reason to come back. If you were dead we owed you that much of returning your remains to Earth and if you were alive we couldn't leave you here. Finally they approved the mission and it took us another two-three weeks to get a ship requisitioned and modified for the trip back."

"How long did it take you to get here?" asked Kathryn as she slipped her arm around Chakotay.

"Two months, twenty-nine days and seven hours," replied Tuvok, "because we have to periodically close the drive down and drop to Warp. It obviously has not been perfected as yet to stay within the drive indefinitely, but it is safe in what they have devised."

"What, no seconds, Tuvok," jibed Harry through his laughter.

"I have found humans do not find the need for seconds - they always jest about it, Mr. Kim."

Kathryn looked at B'Elanna, at the four pips on her collar. "A Captain, B'Elanna? I'm so proud of you!" And looking at Harry, "And a Commander, Harry. How wonderful!"

B'Elanna grinned. "He's actually my First Officer, Captain, how about that?"

"I'm so proud of both of you I could cry," said Kathryn as she swiped at another tear.

"That's all right, honey. I feel like I could cry myself," said Chakotay as he leaned down and kissed her cheek.

"But you're crying already, Dad." called out Jonathan. Chakotay smiled as everyone laughed and quickly bent down and picked up Jonathan. "Well then, wipe them off for me son."

"We actually tried to contact you about six hours ago, and when we didn't get any response, were afraid of what we were going to find," said B'Elanna.

"Oh," said Kathryn as she put her arms around Katie and Adam, "We let the children play with the badges and I'm afraid they no longer work. Chakotay repaired them several times, but they just finally wore out."

"Well," said Harry, "Eventually our sensors indicated five human life forms in this area and comparing them with our records we knew Chakotay and you were alive Captain, and then we sort of guessed what the other three were," he said grinning.

Chakotay, beaming proudly as he put his arm around Kathryn, "Yes we have three very wonderful and beautiful children."

Kathryn smiled then suddenly exclaimed, "Come on, let's not stand out here, let's get into the house. We have a lot of catching up to do."

"Actually we have one more crewmember who came with us, Captain," said B'Elanna.

"Tom?" questioned Kathryn.

"No he had to stay home and mind the children," laughed B'Elanna.

"Yeah, he likes to say he volunteered to stay home, but in reality he was forced to stay home because B'Elanna was named to command this mission," laughed Harry.

"Children, B'Elanna? How many?" asked Chakotay as he struggled to hold an excited Jonathan, and then finally gave up and put him down.

"Two. Thomas Eugene Paris, II and.- Kathryn, ages nine and seven respectively."

"Oh my," said Kathryn putting her hands to her face and looking up at Chakotay. "I feel so honored." Then remembering about the other crewmember asked, "Who else came? Do we know him?"

"Yes you do," and B'Elanna turned to look at the ship along with everyone else and they saw a man sitting in the doorway. B'Elanna waved to him to join the group then turned and said, "It's Corey Taylor . . . he's a Lt. now and Chief Engineer on my ship."

As Taylor stood and started walking towards them his telltale limp was evident. B'Elanna explained, "He didn't want to crash our get together, so remained in the ship for a bit. He's still as shy as ever," she said with a chuckle.

As Corey joined them, he grinned in embarrassment. "Nice to see you again, Captain, Commander."

Both Kathryn and Chakotay gave him big hugs, with Kathryn adding a kiss on the cheek, which promptly made Corey's face turn beet red. "It's wonderful to see you again, Corey," said Kathryn smiling. "Now look everybody, like I said, let's get into the house and talk."

"Jonathan, Adam, Katie, run on ahead and clean up the mess you left this morning and then get some chairs out," said Chakotay quietly.

"Yes, Poppa!" they all chorused and took off on a dead run for the house, with Jonathan leading the pack and yelling he was going to beat everybody.

B'Elanna and Harry smiled at the site. "They seem like great children," said Harry, to which Kathryn and Chakotay enthusiastically agreed.

As the group entered the house, Kathryn with a quick glance around said she was afraid there weren't enough chairs for everyone.

"No problem," said Harry as he quickly sat on the floor and leaned against the wall, joined a second later by Corey. The kids all huddled in one corner, their eyes still dancing with excitement, and watched their visitors seat themselves around the room.

"About the only thing I can fix you right now is something cool to drink," said Kathryn.

"What, no coffee, Captain?" smirked Harry.

Kathryn laughed. "It's been a long time since I've had coffee, or tea for that matter. And besides, I'm not Captain anymore. Everyone - please call me Kathryn."

"I disagree," said Tuvok. "You are Captain until you officially resign from Starfleet, as is Commander Chakotay, although I am not sure whether he would resign as Commander or Captain considering the circumstances of your last few days on Voyager."

Kathryn turned serious. "I'm sorry I failed you people. I just . . . I just finally broke and couldn't pull myself out of it. Leaving the ship was the best thing to ever happen to me. I was still in bad shape when Chakotay suddenly appeared, and after his 'speech' suddenly everything - my being on the planet and Chakotay being there with me - they were the answer and solution to my problem. It was like magic, the weight of the world just seemed to drop off my shoulders."

"It was being in my arms of course. That was the magic that did it!" said Chakotay grinning madly.

"Oh stop that you egotistical man," said Kathryn laughing while playfully slapping at his arm.

As the conversation continued Chakotay noticed Jonathan had walked over behind Tuvok and was carefully looking at his ears. "Jonathan," said Chakotay very quietly. Jonathan froze, said, "Sorry Dad," and immediately rejoined his brother and sister.

Tuvok nodded in appreciation. "Very well disciplined children, Commander. I'm impressed."

"Well," added Kathryn, also aware of the situation, "We felt that even though we were out here in the middle of nowhere, manners and courtesy were very important, and we think we've done a good job."

"Indeed you have," said Tuvok.

Just then Adam walked up to Kathryn and solemnly said, "Mother I have been elected to tell you that we three would be willing to spend the evening in the ship so our visitors may have our quarters."

Everyone smiled at this declaration, and Kathryn pursed her lips and said, "Oh you would, would you. Well that decision is up to Captain Torres."

"And besides, Adam," added Chakotay. "There is a lot of valuable equipment on that ship. How do we know you kids wont get too curious and start playing with some of the control panels?"

"Oh no, Father. We wont touch anything. I'll sit up all night to make sure Katie and Jonathan don't touch a thing!"

Everyone laughed and then B'Elanna, looking at both Chakotay and Kathryn said, "Corey powered everything down, but if you would feel better we could put up a force field blocking the front cabin."

"Tell you what," said Harry rising. "Why don't Tuvok, Corey and I take Chakotay and the kids out to the ship and show them around while you ladies decide what you want to do."

With a squeal all three children raced outside, then stood excitedly awaiting the rest of the group. As Chakotay rose he leaned over and kissed Kathryn and said, "Come join us when you are finished, sweetheart," kissed her again and walked outside.

Kathryn's eyes followed Chakotay all the way out the door and B'Elanna smiled seeing this. As Kathryn turned back to her and seeing the smile, she shook her head and said, "This may sound unbelievable to you B'Elanna, but my love keeps growing for that man every single day, even after fifteen years!"

"I don't think I have ever seen so much love from a person as I see coming from you. You have really changed, Kathryn."

She smiled. "I know, B'Elanna. If I had stayed on that ship I would have remained aloof and distant from Chakotay and ruined both our lives. From the minute I saw him walking across that clearing my heart soared. I even tried to act mad at him for coming back and disobeying my orders," she said with a laugh, "But he let me know in no uncertain terms that I wasn't Captain anymore, I was Kathryn the woman he loved and had vowed to stay with and protect."

Then Kathryn chuckled. "We didn't even make love until the fourth night. Oh we slept together to stay warm, but Chakotay was a perfect gentleman. On the fourth night he rose up on one elbow and kissed me, one of the sweetest most wonderful kisses I've ever had in my life and then asked me if we could make love! Of course by then I was on fire and there was no way I was going to say no."

B'Elanna laughed gleefully at this admission and then said, "You have made quite a comfortable life here, it looks like," as they moved into the boys room and started stripping the linen off the beds.

"The first year was very rough, but Chakotay always managed to solve or fix things and I felt so safe and comfortable with him. If he hadn't been here I would have died that first year, no doubt about it. But he would hold me in his arms, tell me everything would be all right, that we were going to make it and make love to me . . . " She hesitated briefly as she looked up at B'Elanna, then said in a very confidential, low voice, "We make love almost every night. Chakotay calls it 'Renewing our love'. About the only time we slack off is during the latter stages of my pregnancies and then Chakotay becomes a mother hen."

"Every night?" asked B'Elanna her eyes a little wide. "Tom and I can barely handle two to three times a week," she added with a laugh.

"That's because you're most likely involved in passion and striving for orgasms. Chakotay and I just want to love each other and our loving isn't by habit, or rote or because we feel we have to - we do it because we want to. If an orgasm happens it's wonderful, if not it's no problem. We made that decision the first year and it has led to our being very happy, very satisfied and very relaxed in our expression of love. There is always a certain level of passion involved, of course, but all we want is to please each other and it's always wonderful. We just enjoy loving each . . . " Suddenly Kathryn looked up at B'Elanna and laughed. "Oh my God, B'Elanna I'm probably embarrassing the devil out of you talking like this."

B'Elanna smiled. "I must admit it startled me at first, but like I said earlier you have changed. I'm really enjoying this talk. You're so open and frank in your conversation now," she said and reached out and hugged Kathryn. "But what about the children? There isn't much privacy here and you don't even have doors on the bedrooms."

"Chakotay felt it was important for them to know the facts," said Kathryn as they moved into Katie's room, "and they don't think anything about it. During the day we are always kissing and hugging, moaning or making some sound and I think they equate the day sounds with what they hear at night. And I might add quickly here as a caution to you that none of us wear nightclothes, there's no need here, so beware!"

B'Elanna laughed loudly at that statement and said she hoped no one would have a chance encounter in the middle of the night.

Kathryn joined her in the laughter, and then continued. "As to being open and frank, Chakotay and I express our love all the time, to each other and to our children. They know they are loved and they know their mother and father love each other dearly. We talk candidly about everything to each other and in front of our children. I'm sure they don't understand everything all the time, but they are free to ask questions and boy do they ever sometimes!" she said rolling her eyes, causing B'Elanna to giggle. "Also, when it came time to leave here, they wouldn't be totally ignorant."

"Leave? You planned on leaving here?"

"Eventually, when Adam is a little older. There is no girlfriend for him here, so Chakotay has kept the Shuttle in top shape, and as a matter of fact, that populated area on the other side of the planet? We go there several times a year to get seed and equipment - they are pre warp, that's why you see old equipment . . . and they call us 'the away people' and think we are from the next planet. Anyway Chakotay has taught Adam to fly the Shuttle and is now teaching Katie and Jonathan and when Adam enters puberty a few years down the line we felt we would have to leave soon after. We're isolated here, but we think we have done a good raising the kids, so leave - yes, it would only be fair to the children."

"Good thing we came now", said B'Elanna, "although I'm sure our sensors could have eventually tracked you down."

Kathryn laughed. "Oh we planned on leaving a Data Padd from the Shuttle saying where we had gone just in case anyone stopped by."

B'Elanna smiled as they sat down on the bed. "I've enjoyed this 'womanly confidential' conversation and am grateful you felt free to talk to me like this. You are so much more open than you used to be. I like this Kathryn Janeway much better than the old Kathryn Janeway."

Kathryn smiled. "I have changed a lot, B'Elanna, thanks to Chakotay. He and I are very open about everything and we love each other so much." Again she lowered her voice, "We want one more child, hopefully a sister for Katie and stopped precautions a month ago. Chakotay doesn't know this yet, but I think I'm pregnant now. I'll know for sure in a couple of weeks."

B'Elanna reached out and hugged Kathryn again. "That's wonderful Kathryn!" she exclaimed, "And you don't need to worry about any bad effects on your pregnancy from the Transwarp Drive. Starfleet has studied everything and deemed it safe."

Kathryn stood. "Well now that I've shared my womanly secrets with you," she said with a chuckle, "Let's go over to the ship and see what everyone is up to, then I'll show you what Chakotay has built down by the stream."

As Kathryn and B'Elanna entered the ship the sight made them smile. Katie was sitting on Harry's lap, Jonathan was on Corey's lap and Adam was standing between them, all listening intently to Harry's explanation of the controls. Tuvok was sitting behind them in the Captain's chair.

Chakotay, standing behind Harry turned as he saw the women enter and held out his arm to Kathryn. As she entered his embrace and they kissed briefly Jonathan turned and said excitedly, "Mom! Harry is teaching us all about the ship, and did you know they call it Voyager II?"

B'Elanna laughed. "Oh that's right I haven't told you about that yet. Well this is a third generation Defiant Class and it is actually called Washington, but just before we left we re-christened it Voyager II for this mission."

Kathryn laughed. "Well I think that is very appropriate. Is Voyager retired?"

"Not really. They put it in their History Museum for a while and now cadets use it for short training missions. Despite the beating it took out here in the DQ it's still a pretty sturdy ship and in good shape."

They turned back to watching the rapt attention of the children's lesson for awhile then B'Elanna showed Kathryn around the ship, where their quarters would be and how much room they had to store things. "And we can also store things in the Shuttle."

"You're taking the shuttle back with you?" said Kathryn in a surprised tone. "It wont withstand the Transwarp trail will it?"

"Actually," said Harry as he joined them, "We will tractor it up into the belly of Voyager and clamp it on real tight and it will be fine. Our first thought was to put it in the cargo bay of this ship, but decided the weight might throw the trim off as we have modified the ship so much."

"Why do you have to take it back?" asked Chakotay joining the group.

"They use old ones to teach cadets and they also need them for spare parts as the others age," replied B'Elanna.

Kathryn and Chakotay looked at one another and smiled. "Maybe we will be able to keep it?" asked Kathryn.

"No idea" said B'Elanna as both she and Harry shrugged their shoulders.

"What is our timeline on leaving?" asked Chakotay.

"None as to deadline. Actually we thought we would spend a couple of days just stretching our legs after that long trip, then spend a day loading up and leave the following day." B'Elanna then smiled. "That is if you can put up with us!"

Everyone laughed, with Kathryn saying they could even stay longer, "After all it's been fifteen years, what's a few days more?"

The rest of the day was spent just relaxing, catching up on all the news and showing their guests all around. Everyone was quite impressed with the Bathtub and Shower set up Chakotay had built down at the stream as well as the pump line to bring water up to the house so they wouldn't have to hand carry it, but were especially impressed with the recycling/cleansing tubs he had fashioned so the 'dirty' water could be sent back into the water downstream. Most of the equipment had been obtained during their trips to the far village.

Finally it was time to retire and Corey, saying he preferred to sleep in the ship, took the three children and headed out to Voyager II. B'Elanna and Harry retired to their respective rooms, but Kathryn didn't see Tuvok, so walked to the door and peered outside.

Spotting him sitting quietly a few yards away she quickly told Chakotay she would be with him momentarily and quietly sat beside Tuvok.

"Am I interrupting anything my friend?" she asked softly.

"No Captain. I am just enjoying the peace and serenity of this place. Even though it is isolated I feel a sense of comfort here. It is no wonder you have survived. This is the ideal place to have settled to cure your depression."

"Thanks to Chakotay we've made a good home here, Tuvok. I haven't missed anything like I thought I would."

"I imagine the Commander has had a great deal to do with your healthy state of mind, Captain."

"Yes. Without him I would have died very early on. He has been my rock, my pillar of strength, and has taught me so much about life, about love and what that means."

"It is quite obvious the affection you have for one another. And the change it has brought about in you pleases me immensely, Captain."

"Thank you Tuvok. I love him more than words could ever say. And please call me Kathryn. I am no longer your Captain. I am your friend, Kathryn. I call you Tuvok, so what about it?"

"All right . . . Kathryn." He immediately frowned deeply. "I must admit that is strange and foreign for me to say."

"You will adjust," giggled Kathryn. "Well, you must be tired, so I'll leave and retire for the evening myself. You know where your bed is," she said as she rose.

"Yes, thank you. And goodnight - Kathryn"

"Goodnight Tuvok."

*******

The next two days were very relaxing and full of enjoyment for everyone. Corey and Harry played Tag and Leap Frog with the kids and one day Chakotay got involved and he, Corey and Harry played tag with the children perched on their shoulders. Only after a couple of spills and Kathryn's fear of someone getting hurt did that game stop.

On the morning of the second day Chakotay took Corey and Adam up in the shuttle to let Corey familiarize himself once again with the small craft, as he would be the one to fly it up to Voyager II until the tractor device was employed. As they landed Kathryn met them and suggested a trip to the far village for seed to plant on earth, plus some fresh vegetables for the trip home. As it only took an hour each way they left immediately, much to Jonathan's consternation at not being invited.

Kathryn spent this time with Tuvok and B'Elanna, while Harry went off to Voyager II to ostensibly check all the systems. Katie and Jonathan amused themselves with various activities, so as not to bother the grownups, which impressed both Tuvok and B'Elanna. Although deeply involved in this conversation with her friends, Kathryn's mind worked overtime, with packing and leaving inserting itself into her consciousness at various times and occasionally she would make a mental note about something she wished to pack.

Three hours passed and Kathryn became extremely nervous and kept looking in the direction the shuttle would appear. B'Elanna saw her fidgeting and placed a hand on her shoulder.

"I'm sure they are alright, Kathryn."

"They should have been back thirty minutes ago, B'Elanna," she said frowning as she paced to and fro. "All Chakotay had to get was the seed and vegetables. It just shouldn't have taken this long!" She then raised her hand to shade her eyes as she again stared toward the horizon.

B'Elanna, hearing the frightened tone in Kathryn's voice said, "I assure you they are alright." Then tapping her badge she said, "Harry, what's the news?"

"They are on their way back and about fifteen minutes out," came the reply. "Sensors appeared to indicate they were carrying something a little heavy. Maybe that's why they were delayed heading back."

"Excellent Harry, keep a lock on," she said as she smiled at Kathryn's shocked look. "I knew you would be worried with going home so close and not wanting anything to happen, so I have had Harry at the ship tracking them with the ship's long-range sensors."

Kathryn threw her hands up in the air, laughed, and then hugged B'Elanna. "I think you know me too well."

B'Elanna grinned. "No really, it's just that I've just seen the tremendous love you have and knew you would be worried. What else did Chakotay get anyway, that would be heavy? Vegetables wouldn't cause a problem."

"Oh Lord knows. But it is typical. He always manages to find something to use here at the house," and then she paused and in a slight tone of exasperation, added, "but we don't need anything here anymore!"

Fifteen minutes later the shuttle appeared overhead and descended near the house, making a soft and smooth landing. Chakotay immediately jumped out and smiled at Kathryn as she hurried over to him. They kissed and hugged, and he then apologized. "Sorry for the delay, hon."

"I was so worried! What on earth did you buy, sweetheart? You only went for seed and vegetables."

Chakotay grinned. "A present for my wife, but it's a secret for now."

Just then Corey and Adam exited the Shuttle and Adam declared excitedly, "Mom! Dad let me fly all the way over and back! And he even let me land just now."

Kathryn enveloped him in a big hug. "I'm so proud of you Adam." Adam smiled and said in a smug voice, "We got you a present, but you can't know for a while."

"What is it sweetheart?" asked Kathryn.

Adam laughed. "You can't trick me mother. It's a secret," then ran off to tell Katie and Jonathan the news.

B'Elanna and Harry looking on smiled, then looked at one another, their looks indicating awe at the love this family showed for one another. "No generation gap here," quipped Harry.

Chakotay walked over to B'Elanna, Tuvok and Harry. "As we are going to be loading up tomorrow I thought having the shuttle close by would save some steps. It can also be used to transfer things over to Voyager II if you like."

Tuvok nodded. "Good thinking Comman . . . Chakotay," and he then frowned and gave an almost imperceptible shake of his head.

Chakotay laughed. "Thank you, Tuvok. We humans will corrupt your Vulcan mind yet!"

Kathryn, listening to this, also laughed, then turned and called out to the children, "Adam, Katie, Jonathan. Go to the garden and pick out some maze and potatoes. Oh, and some Leola Root." As the children ran off she turned back to the group. "We will have a large final dinner here and . . . "

"Leola Root," sputtered Harry.

Kathryn chuckled. "It's what we call it for lack of a name. It's a sweet tuber the village people gave us and it's delicious."

After dinner, Chakotay built a campfire in the rock spit to one side of the house, using the old fashioned twisting of a stick manner and as it started burning brightly he caught sight of a smirking B'Elanna.

"Don't you get smart with me now, B'Elanna," he admonished, all the while pointing a finger at her. "I finally learned how to do that and am actually quite good at it now."

Everyone burst out laughing, but later that evening as the group sat around enjoying the fires warmth as the dancing flames warded off the night chill, B'Elanna was grudgingly forced to admit he had done a good job.

*******

Everyone was up before sunrise the next morning. Excitement was high and very visible as the packing and loading of the ships commenced. B'Elanna had told Kathryn they could take anything they wanted but she and Chakotay tried to be selective. Meanwhile, Harry, Corey and Tuvok began loading the Shuttle with some of the Starfleet equipment they felt would not be wise to leave behind. They also loaded some of the family's crates, which were slowly being brought out into the field, and ferried them over to Voyager II.

As the packing neared completion Chakotay took all three children aside and after everyone sat in a circle a short distance from the house, he started talking to them, the children's faces rapt and solemn.

"What's that about, Kathryn?" asked Harry and B'Elanna as they walked up to Kathryn, who was watching with a slight smile at the corner of her mouth as she stood in the doorway of the house.

Her smile widened as she continued to look at this scene. "Chakotay is trying to impress upon them that this isn't going to be a fun trip. It will be long and tiring and nothing for them to do, yet he expects them to behave and not be a nuisance with complaining." She gave a little laugh. "They will all promise to be good and not get 'antsy' or in the way, but . . . " She stopped talking and burst out in a loud laugh as she turned to B'Elanna and Harry. "I'll give them three weeks tops before they start asking how much longer and when will they get there, etc."

Kathryn then got serious. "All they have ever known is all this space," she said as she raised her hand and indicated the area. "They have never been confined like they will be on this trip. I think it will be especially hard on Jonathan, as he has so much energy."

B'Elanna patted Kathryn on the shoulder. "It will be hard on us, too. But there are several planets with not much in the way of population and I have made a decision to stop as often as we can, even if for only two or three hours. This will prolong the trip a little but it will help having the breaks. Don't worry about it Kathryn - we'll work it out. I'm sure they wont be a nuisance."

"I hope so, but it's going to be a tremendous change for them. The stops will help a lot - thank you, B'Elanna," and she reached out and hugged her.

At that point all three children left Chakotay and came over, giving their solemn pledge to behave and not be a pest. Each received a hug from B'Elanna and Harry and a kiss from their mother.

By midday they were set to leave. Harry and Tuvok headed for the ship while Corey got in the Shuttle. Kathryn, Chakotay and the children took a last walk through what had been their home and Kathryn's salvation for the last fifteen years. B'Elanna walked with them, checking to see if anything was left that shouldn't be.

"You are going to miss this place, aren't you mommy?" asked Katie.

"Yes I will," she said softly and turned to Chakotay and buried her face in his chest as he wrapped his arms around her.

"Any place we live is home, my love," he said quietly.

She looked up at him and smiled. "I know, sweetheart. It's just that this is where I was reborn and where we started our wonderful life together."

Nodding, he smiled that wonderful smile of his and said, "Our life will continue to be wonderful, maybe even more so with the fact it will be Earth where our next home will be." Suddenly he turned to Jonathan and asked him what it was he always wanted to do several years ago but wasn't allowed to.

Jonathan looked at his Dad for a minute then smiled. "Write on the walls."

Chakotay reached in his pocket and pulled out a coloring stick, handed it to Jonathan and said, "Go write your name on the wall."

"Really!" he said as he took the stick from Chakotay. As his father nodded Jonathan turned and ran into his room, with Adam and Katie hot on his heels. Picking out a panel he wrote: My name is ‘Jonathan Chakotay and this was my room,' and then turned with a big, excited smile and handed the coloring stick to Adam.

B'Elanna was amazed. "They spell correctly and write beautifully!"

"Yes," said Kathryn, "We started teaching them to write when they were three years old.

Adam now had picked out a panel and was writing: ‘My name is Adam Chakotay and this was my room, too.' Katie took the stick from Adam and ran into her room and wrote: ‘My name is Katie Chakotay and this was my room!' ending hers with a large exclamation point. Then she went up to her mother and said, "Your turn mom."

"Me?" asked Kathryn, then smiled a devilish smile as she looked at Chakotay and went into their room where she wrote:' My name is Kathryn Janeway Chakotay and this was our room,' and handed the stick to Chakotay who wrote: ‘My name is Chakotay and we left for the planet Earth on Stardate. . . ." He stopped, frowned, and turned to B'Elanna. "What's the Stardate anyway, B'Elanna?"

"Uhm . . ." and she frowned and tapped her badge. "Harry, what's the Stardate?"

"Oh Lord, I'm going to have to check the chronometer on the ship. Haven't thought of dates for awhile, just a sec." As Harry called out the date, Chakotay wrote it on the wall.

Kathryn suddenly bent down, hugged and kissed her children and sent them off to the ship. As they ran out the door B'Elanna smiled knowingly and said, "I'll head over, too. Take your time."

Kathryn and Chakotay were quiet for a moment then kissed a deep, loving kiss. "It's been a good home," said Kathryn in a husky voice, and they turned and walked out the door and headed across the field, resisting looking back by keeping their eyes focused ahead. Reaching Voyager II they both turned, took one last look, stepped in, the door slid shut and sealed and the ship slowly started its ascent.

Corey was already aloft in the Shuttle and as Voyager II reached the stated altitude Corey maneuvered in behind, a tractor beam engaged the Shuttle and pulled it up tight to the belly of the ship.

"Clamps engaged - and locked on," reported Tuvok.

"Copy, sensors show clamps hard and true," came Corey's reply.

After a brief moment, B'Elanna asked, "Everything shut down and ready to beam over, Corey?"

"Everything powered down and ready, Captain."

"Energize Tuvok" said B'Elanna and Corey appeared almost immediately and headed for his station. "Wow" said Jonathan, his eyes wide. "How did they do that?"

"Ready for Transwarp, Corey?"

"Everything ready, Captain."

"Harry?"

"Everything's nominal here, Captain."

B'Elanna then looked over at the family. "We will be very busy for a few minutes now so sit back and relax." Then looking forward, "Engage Transwarp."

An almost imperceptible shudder was felt for a second as Transwarp engaged, then they shot forward and the planet was out of sight in an instant.

"Wow!" exclaimed all three children at once, their noses pressed against the view port.

The crew remained busy for almost five minutes checking and re-checking all readings, and Kathryn and Chakotay, who had sat quietly watching B'Elanna smiled, both awe and appreciation on their faces. B'Elanna finally looked over at them and said, "We are on our way." Then a big smile creased her face as she added, "You are on your way back to Earth . . . you are going home."

Chakotay smiled at Kathryn as he gently squeezed her hand. Kathryn momentarily dipped her head, her eyes glimmering in wetness, both in sadness at leaving the home where she and Chakotay had lived and raised a family for the last fifteen years, and in happiness at heading for Earth, a planet she felt she would never see again.

*******

Three weeks into the trip, and as Kathryn had predicted, the novelty wore off for the children and their energy was about to explode. Also about this time Kathryn started having morning sickness and told Chakotay she was pregnant. Both he and the children were delighted, with Katie immediately announcing she wanted a sister. Adam's only desire was that the baby would be healthy, and Jonathan didn't care whether it was a brother or sister, it simply meant he would no longer be the youngest!

Sensors indicated a sparsely populated planet a few hours away and the crew started the routine of dropping out of Transwarp. Corey then beamed to the Shuttle, released it from Voyager II and landed separately so as to avoid any possible damage to the small craft. B'Elanna quickly decided they would spend the night, a decision welcomed by all.

Before dawn the next morning, after spending the night sleeping in the open and under a blanket of stars, they all boarded Voyager II, and the usual procedures commenced. Kathryn sat proudly watching B'Elanna, Harry and Corey doing their job. They were so good at handling all this equipment that was so much more involved than Voyager. Leaning back onto Chakotay she murmured, "Do you think we could have kept up with all this technology, honey?"

He chuckled. "I don't even want to think about it, it's just enjoyable to watch our 'kids' with all their expertise." Kathryn smiled then pushed her head hard into Chakotay's chest as she fought off another wave of nausea.

The trip continued uneventfully, with B'Elanna making as many stops as possible to benefit her passengers. Most were only two to three hours but six times they spent the night on remote areas of planets.

Three months and seven days later, they arrived at the wormhole and dropped into Impulse. B'Elanna looked back at the family. They had all gathered together in anticipation of this event and she smiled and said, "The first thing you will see when we come out of the wormhole is Earth. It is rather overwhelming so be prepared."

Looking forward she asked, "Report Harry?"

"Everything looking good, Captain."

"Tuvok, Corey, any problems?"

"None, Captain," they echoed. "The wormhole is stable."

"All right, Harry, take us in."

The turbulence was minimal and everything and everyone became very quiet. Harry suddenly reported, "Exit in fifteen seconds."

Chakotay, Kathryn and the children stood and moved forward, all holding hands. Suddenly the ship shot out into open space and there it was, the big beautiful blue orb called Earth.

"Oh my," said Kathryn as she put a hand to her face, and leaned into Chakotay. He put his arm around her pulling her tight against him, his emotion effectively choking off any words he might have wanted to say.

"It's beautiful, momma!" exclaimed Katie.

"Oh man," said Adam, his eyes wide.

"Wow!" exclaimed Jonathan, using his favorite expression, his eyes dancing and a big smile on his face.

"Open a channel, Mr. Tuvok," said B'Elanna

"Channel open, Captain."

"Starfleet Base, this is Captain Torres. Voyager II reporting back and out of the wormhole. Request docking instructions."

"Welcome back, Voyager II," came the reply. "We were getting a little worried. Was your mission a success?"

"Mission successful," responded B'Elanna. "We have nine souls aboard."

"Nine!" came the surprise response.

"Yes sir. You will understand when we land."

"Roger. You are cleared for Docking Port 2 . . . no belay that, it has just been changed to Docking Port 1A"

Harry turned with a big smile and looked back at Kathryn and Chakotay. "Hey! 1A, that's reserved for dignitaries only!"

With seven hours yet to go, everyone moved back and sat down. Kathryn looked at Chakotay, tears trickling down her cheeks. "I didn't think we would ever see Earth again." Then she ducked her head into his shoulder and her body started to visibly shake.

"Is mom alright?" asked Jonathan moving over to her.

"She's fine, Jonathan," said Chakotay gently. "She's just overcome with happiness at being back home."

Jonathan nodded then placed his hand on his mother's back and gently started rubbing. "It's okay mom. Cry if you want to, we understand."

Adam and Katie moved to Kathryn and also patted her on the back, each telling her it was perfectly okay to cry.

Kathryn turned from Chakotay's shoulder and pulled her children close. Jonathan reached up and wiped some tears from her cheek and she hugged them all hard, told them she loved them and would be okay, they didn't have to worry.

As the children turned and again moved forward to watch the ever-growing Earth, Kathryn looked back to Tuvok and nodded her head, with him returning the nod, then she looked over at B'Elanna, who now had tears streaming down her cheeks as she had watched this family reacting to returning to home, a place and journey they thought would never occur.

Kathryn smiled at her and whispered, "Thank you."

B'Elanna nodded, wiped at the tears and looking forward said, "Slow to one-quarter Impulse, Harry."

"Aye, slowing to one-quarter Impulse," then he glanced back and Kathryn saw tears on his cheeks also. He smiled, nodded and said, "Welcome home Kathryn, Chakotay."

Kathryn turned back to Chakotay and snuggled deep into his arms. Nothing had to be said between them, they knew the emotion the other was experiencing.

Almost six and one-half hours later they dropped out of subspace and into orbit, again received confirmation of docking instructions and commenced their descent. Corey disengaged the Shuttle and was ordered to land at Docking Bay 3, while Voyager II glided into Docking Port 1A and slowly settled to Earth. B'Elanna immediately beamed Corey back so he could be part of the ceremonies.

"Good job, Voyager II, remain in the ship for a few moments please," came the order from a disembodied Starfleet voice.

Then the orders of how to debark - Captain and crew first, followed by the guests of honor. B'Elanna stepped out of the ship, closely followed by Harry, Tuvok and Corey, all having big smiles on their faces. A fairly large crowd had assembled and an Admiral stepped forward and shook all their hands.

"Now let's see these honored guests," he said. B'Elanna then turned, walked back to the door and disappeared inside for a moment.

Shortly she stepped back out and announced, "Sir, I present Captain Janeway, Commander Chakotay and their children, Adam, Katie and Jonathan."

As the family appeared at the door a drum roll started and trumpets blared a fanfare. Chakotay was carrying Jonathan, with Katie in between her mom and dad, tightly clenching each of her parent's free hands, and Adam was on the far side of Kathryn, his arm around his mother's waist and Kathryn's free arm draped across his shoulders. All were smiling broadly and this family 'portrait' would later be shown on all the news and publications.

The Admiral, with a big smile on his face stepped forward, shook Kathryn and Chakotay's hands and said, "I am Admiral Franklin and on behalf of Starfleet I welcome you back to Earth. Your accomplishments in the Delta Quadrant are astonishing and your sacrifice on behalf of the ship and crew admirable." Kathryn appeared puzzled by this. He turned and reached for the velvet case held by a nearby Lt and opened it up, revealing two medals.

"In gratitude, we present you with the Medal of Valor, Grade 1" and then proceeded to place one each around Kathryn's and Chakotay's neck. Jonathan, eyes wide as he looked at it, said, "You are heroes mom and dad!"

"No son, we're not heroes, it's just a welcome home gift," said Chakotay in a soft, somewhat embarrassed tone.

"We really don't deserve this Admiral Franklin," said Kathryn, her face red in discomfort at the awarding of the medal.

"Nonsense." said the Admiral. "You deserve this and more, but it is all we have at such short notice. Please say a few words, Captain," and he handed her a Sound Magnifier.

Kathryn looked at Chakotay as she stepped forward. Everything became silent as they waited for Kathryn to speak. "I really don't know what to say, you have me at a loss for words and that doesn't happen often." There was an eruption of knowing laughter. "I am grateful to Starfleet for undertaking this mission to find and bring us home, even though it was explained you felt we might be deceased. Thanks to the ingenuity and perseverance of my husband Chakotay we are alive and well as you can see and, I might add, thriving," as she indicated her children. Again laughter and cheers along with some whistles were heard.

"I thank Captain Torres, Commander Kim, Mr. Tuvok and Lt. Taylor for giving their time to effect this return home. All of you have my eternal gratitude. Beyond that we are glad to once again be on earth and I say with gusto, to be off that ship!" Everyone knowing the length of the trip laughed loudly. Smiling she ended with "I recognize some faces in the crowd and also see a couple of faces of my former crew, so be assured that once we have settled down and rested you will hear from us both. Thank you again." She quickly stepped back close to Chakotay and he gave her a kiss on the cheek as he placed his arm around her.

The Admiral continued. "We will have an official, more appropriate welcome home gala for you one week from today, and will have as many of your former Voyager crewmembers as we can gather. In the meantime, knowing you are tired, we will have you report back in the morning for physicals, debriefing and some financial matters that need to be taken care of. Ensign Pierce has been assigned to take care of all your transportation needs," he said indicating the man nearby who immediately braced to attention. "Again, welcome back Captain, Commander. Now get your family together and get your rest." Turning he handed the Magnifier to the Lt standing to one side.

Before leaving the gathering, the Admiral informed Kathryn and Chakotay privately it had been arranged they would be staying with B'Elanna until a home for them was procured, instructed Harry to remove whatever personal belongings anyone might need and then move the ship to Port 4 and seal it shut. Unloading could be handled in a few days

Everyone quickly moved back into the ship and gathered essentials for a couple of days. Tuvok and Corey after bidding their goodbyes and saying they would see them at the Gala left for their respective homes. Harry, after making sure everyone had what they needed moved the ship and Ensign Pierce arrived with the Shuttle to transport them to B'Elanna's home.

Chakotay, noticing the Ensign having difficulty with so many bags, quickly picked up his and instructed the boys to get all the others. The Ensign, with a frightened look on his face, protested it was his job.

Chakotay smiled and winked, saying, "If a Lt or Captain says anything to you about our carrying bags just tell them it was Commander Chakotay's orders." The Ensign smiled, a relieved look on his face.

Soon the shuttle lifted off and they were moving away from the base. As the Shuttle flew over the Academy Adam asked, "Will I go there Dad?"

"Not if you don't want to son. Just because your mother and I were in Starfleet doesn't mean you have to be."

"Well I want to go there," piped up Jonathan.

"You have a few years before you make that decision sweetheart," said Kathryn, but Jonathan insisted that was what he was going to do. Meanwhile the children were agog over all the buildings they were seeing.

Soon the Shuttle was over a neighborhood with tree-lined streets and shortly landed in front of a large two-story white house. Before the Shuttle was even close to landing, Tom could be seen flying out the front door, followed by two barking and very excited dogs. A cat also came bounding out the door, but stayed aloof of the entire hubbub by remaining on the porch. Tom started pounding on the door of the Shuttle as it slowly settled on the street.

"Come on Ensign, open up!" he yelled.

The door finally opened and Tom raced in, barely gave B'Elanna a peck on the cheek and headed straight for Kathryn, giving her a huge bear hug, to the point Kathryn thought her ribs were going to break, and followed with the same for Chakotay.

"Oh man, am I ever glad to see you guys!"

"It's good to see you too, Tom," said Kathryn with a large smile on her face.

Then Tom spotted the children. "Well, who do we have here?"

All three children immediately stood and Adam extended his hand. "I'm Adam, this is my sister Katie and that is my youngest brother Jonathan," he said in a very mature manner. Tom shook each hand and tousled Jonathan's hair as B'Elanna stepped off the Shuttle, followed by Harry. "Well," said Tom with a familiar smirk as he looked out at B'Elanna, "The boss has indicated it's time to move so we better get out."

Ensign Pierce told Kathryn and Chakotay he would be back at 0900 hours tomorrow to take them to their debriefing meeting, the group gathered their bags off and headed for the house as the shuttle silently flew away. Tom turned to B'Elanna.

"Knowing you honey you already have everything figured out so tell me where to go."

B'Elanna nodded and said, "Kathryn and Chakotay can sleep in the guest room, Katie can sleep with Kathryn, Adam and Jonathan can sleep in Thomas' room and Thomas can sleep down here on the couch."

"Oh good, you didn't kick us out of our room. After six months that would have been disastrous."

"Tom!" said B'Elanna with an exasperated, embarrassed look on her face.

"Well Chakotay understands, don't you Chakotay?" said Tom looking at him.

"Actually no, Tom, I don't. I've never had that problem." Kathryn and B'Elanna burst out in loud laughter and were quickly joined by Chakotay.

"Oh, okay, I get it - a private joke. Well B'Elanna, you can just tell me in private later," and he started up the stairs, with everyone following still in gales of laughter.

After dinner Tom turned on the news and as to be expected it was full of the family's arrival back at Earth. Kathryn was constantly referred to as a ‘hero,' which highly embarrassed her. Many other flowing and complimentary phrases were used regarding Kathryn, as well as giving Starfleet credit for having the courage to undertake the trip. Kathryn, decidedly uncomfortable at last requested Tom turn the news off, saying, "They are making too much of my return. B'Elanna should be getting a lot of the credit, along with the others, for insisting on making the trip, not to mention enduring such a long journey just to find us!"

"Well you know Starfleet," mused Tom. "Anything to give themselves credit for what other people do."

Harry left shortly after this and the group then spent the rest of the evening relaxing, laughing and talking. Later in bed, Kathryn lay on her side rubbing her leg over Chakotay's even as he stroked her head. Suddenly she said, "Honey, I have a request."

"What love?" asked Chakotay

"I would like us to have a regular marriage."

Chakotay started chuckling. "I thought of the same thing a little while ago. It was rather strange you performing the ceremony and marrying yourself."

Both started laughing out loud as they pictured that moment and in the room next door, Tom whispered, "What are they laughing about?"

"Hush, Tom, go to sleep," said B'Elanna with a big smile on her face as she thought back to the three nights spent on that planet, listening to Kathryn and Chakotay talk and laugh every night - amongst other sounds.

She smiled again thinking of that first morning when she and Kathryn were walking across the field for the shower. "Sorry if we kept you awake last night," Kathryn had said with a soft giggle. "After my grand speech to you yesterday, Chakotay and I had a profoundly passionate night last night and I can tell you this, if I wasn't pregnant before I sure as hell am now!" and both had laughed loudly at this. B'Elanna, picturing this moment in her mind, couldn't help herself and giggled out loud.

Tom immediately rose up on his elbow and asked, "What's with all this midnight laughing?"

"Nothing, Tom, just something Kathryn said on the planet."

"Are you going to tell me?"

"No, it's a woman thing, but I will tell you that Kathryn and I formed a bond - a very special camaraderie."

Tom dropped back on the bed and grumbled, "I think I missed a hell of a lot not going on that trip." B'Elanna turned, and cuddling close to Tom whispered, "I love you Tom and I missed you, but I just hope we can have half the love and feelings between us that Kathryn and Chakotay have for each other."

"Yeah I could sure see right away and all evening how much they cared for one another. It actually gave me goose bumps."

Soon the house became quiet as Kathryn, Chakotay and their children spent their first night home on Earth.

The next morning everyone in the Paris household was up early and Chakotay, Kathryn and Tom were sitting around the breakfast table while B'Elanna prepared breakfast. Kathryn was in absolute heaven enjoying her first cup of coffee, which was also made from freshly ground coffee beans. She closed her eyes and smiled, much to Chakotay's and Tom's, amusement.

Adam, Katie and Jonathan entered the room and quietly walked over to B'Elanna, but didn't say anything, just looked up at her. She smiled at them and glanced over at Kathryn. "What's up?" she asked, her tone puzzled.

"I haven't the slightest idea," said Kathryn, "But knowing our children be prepared for anything when they look that serious."

Jonathan jabbed Adam in the arm. "Go on!" he said.

"Give me a chance!" countered Adam.

Finally Adam cleared his throat and said, "You are mom and dad's best friend and you came all the way to the Delta Quadrant to bring them back here to Earth, so we were thinking," and he hesitated.

"Say it Adam," said Katie, "Or I will!"

"No! It's my job," hissed Adam as he glared at her. Looking back at B'Elanna he said, "Well because of all that I just said, we'd like to call you Aunt B'Elanna if you don't mind."

The room went deathly quiet for a moment, then B'Elanna knelt down and said, "I feel privileged and honored for you to call me that," and as the children broke out in big smiles she hugged them all.

Kathryn reached out and took hold of Chakotay's hand and squeezed it, and they both sat there, the proudest parents in the world.

Suddenly Tom stood and walked over to them. "What about me?"

"You weren't there, Tom," said Adam matter-of-factly. "It was Aunt B'Elanna and Uncle Harry that came and got us."

"Uncle Harry!" groaned Tom with a very pained expression. " Now wait just a minute. It wasn't my fault I didn't get to come! I had to stay here and take care of our two children."

The three looked at him then moved off to a corner and whispered for a few minutes, while the grownups silently looked on.

Finally the three turned and walked over to Tom. "You have made a good point, and we have decided we'd like to call you Uncle Thomas," said Adam very seriously.

Tom dropped down to both knees put his arms around all three and said, "Thank you very much. I am very proud you are including me. I accept Uncle Thomas."

Kathryn, who had put her head on Chakotay's shoulder, looked up at him, her eyes beaming with pride. Chakotay smiled at her and then looking up said, "Well children, that means that Tom and B'Elanna's children will be your cousins."

Jonathan looked at his Dad. "What's a cousin?"

"It's the next best thing to a brother and sister," he replied.

The children smiled and ran out to the backyard where Thomas and Kathryn were feeding the dogs. "Guess what?" called out Katie. "We're cousins!"

This could be heard in the kitchen and everyone laughed. Tom turned to Chakotay and said, "Well, I bet you never expected to be related to me!"

Chakotay dropped his head to the table and groaned. "Great Spirits, first he saves my life twice and now this. Why me?" At this everyone exploded in loud laughter.

Following breakfast Chakotay and Kathryn told the children they would be gone for quite awhile, that they likely wouldn't be back until the afternoon and to be good. All three children nodded dutifully and said they would.

Ensign Pierce arrived at 0900 sharp with Harry already aboard. Tom told Kathryn not to worry, that after dropping off his children at school, he would take Adam, Katie and Jonathan on a tour that might include the Academy, and so after kissing their children, again telling them they loved them very much, Chakotay and Kathryn, along with B'Elanna and Harry, climbed in the Shuttle and left.

The first stop was the Base Hospital where all four underwent a battery of rigorous tests for their physicals and in which all were later pronounced in top shape. Next Pierce took them to the Purser's office where Kathryn and Chakotay were to meet with Lt. Kimura. Not knowing what to expect, and as B'Elanna and Harry's debriefing was not scheduled until the afternoon, they asked the twosome to stay with them and they could all go to lunch afterwards.

After a review of their situation Lt. Kimura informed them "You will receive back pay for the years on Voyager as well as your time on the planet because of your illness. You will also qualify for full retirement benefits whenever you resign your . . . "

"Illness?" interrupted Kathryn. "I deserted my crew! I walked off the ship and left them!"

Lt. Kimura frowned and said "I'm sorry Captain," as he picked up a Data Padd while momentarily staring intently at her and then looking at the Padd read, "the record states that 'due to illness and for the protection, integrity and preservation of your crew', you voluntarily left the ship, and that Commander Chakotay volunteered to stay behind and care for you, stating 'it was his duty and right as First Officer.' This was corroborated by all 139 returning members of Voyager's crew."

Kathryn and Chakotay were both shocked by this statement, and with eyes wide they immediately turned and looked at B'Elanna and Harry sitting on a couch in the back of the room.

B'Elanna shrugged her shoulders. "I'm sorry Captain, but we had to tell the truth."

However, Kathryn, looking back at Lt Kimura, continued her protest. "But it's not true, I deserted everybody!"

"I know it must be difficult to admit your illness Captain," said the Lt. sympathetically, "Especially now since you are so obviously healthy, but it was an admirable thing you did, voluntarily stranding yourself in the middle of nowhere in the Delta Quadrant for the sake of your crew."

"Yes, Captain." said Harry, as Kathryn and Chakotay again turned to look at them. "There isn't any point in denying it now after all this time."

Kathryn and Chakotay stared at the two of them for several very long seconds, but Harry and B'Elanna didn't even blink. "You shouldn't have done that," Kathryn finally said quietly, meaning one thing but taken in a different context by the Lt.

"They simply told the truth, Captain, and no harm is done. I admire you for such drastic action and a willingness now to be the bad guy. What was it Spock once said, 'The needs of the many outweigh the needs of the few.' You made sure your crew was taken care of by ‘sacrificing' yourself for their benefit."

Kathryn and Chakotay looked at one another for a moment, and Chakotay seeing her eyes glistening slipped his arm around her shoulders and held her tight against him. Turning back to the Lt., Chakotay cleared his throat and said, "We both thank you for that. You also mentioned retirement," and looked at Kathryn who smiled and nodded her head. "I believe we both wish to formally retire from Starfleet effective immediately."

The Lt. smiled and responded, "I thought you might," and pulled out a Data Padd.

It was near noon when they finally finished their business with Lt Kimura and the four decided to have lunch, with Kathryn and Chakotay still in disbelief at what the crew had done on her behalf. Halfway through their meal Chakotay noticed Kathryn picking at her food and asked what the trouble was.

"I'm worried about our children, sweetheart. This is the first time they have ever been totally separated from both of us. They must be frantic."

"Oh I'm sure they are all right, Kathryn," said B'Elanna, "But if you want we can check. There's a panel over there on the back wall where we can contact the house."

"We'd like that B'Elanna," said Chakotay. "Truth be known, I'm a little frantic myself. I'm sure in their minds they didn't expect us to be gone this long even though we told them it would be afternoon."

Their message was unanswered and B'Elanna said Tom probably still had the children out looking around the town. A few minutes later Ensign Pierce arrived and their next stop was debriefing, with Kathryn and Chakotay meeting with Captain Williams about Voyager and B'Elanna and Harry going to Captain Adams about their rescue mission. Unfortunately, these matters took four hours and both Kathryn and Chakotay were frantic about being separated from their children. Realizing he was not getting much accomplished and seeing their extreme anxiety, Captain Williams said they would continue tomorrow at 0900 hours, and sent a message to Captain Adams while also sending a hail for Ensign Pierce. The Ensign could not get them home fast enough as Kathryn and Chakotay fidgeted and worried all the way.

Running into the house they didn't see anyone. "Tom" called B'Elanna.

"Up here" came the answer from upstairs. Chakotay took the stairs three at a time and raced into the bedroom with Kathryn close on his heels. There on the bed lay Tom with Katie in one arm, Jonathan in the other and Adam laying beside Katie, all with sad, long looks on their faces and obvious tear stain marks on each child's cheeks.

"Mom! Dad!" came a chorused yell from all three as they started scrambling up. Jonathan took two steps on the bed and leaped into Chakotay's arms, Adam jumped to the floor and headed for Kathryn and Katie crawled over Tom, driving one knee into his groin in her haste to get up. No one, not even B'Elanna noticed his pain as the scene of hugs, kisses, tears and soothing words ensued. "We missed you," "We were scared something bad had happened," "You were gone so long," "I'm sorry," "I love you," were among the more legible phrases heard amongst the hugs and kisses. Finally things calmed down somewhat although the children continued to hold tight to some part of their parents.

"We're so sorry," said Kathryn to all three children, tears streaming down her cheeks. "We just didn't expect it to take so long and we did try contacting you around 12:30 but you didn't answer."

"You must have just missed us," said Tom, now having recovered and wiping a tear from his cheek. "We got back at 12:45."

Jonathan, clinging fiercely to Chakotay looked at his dad and said again, "We were all so worried and scared something bad had happened to you."

Chakotay, on one knee, kept kissing Jonathan's cheek and head and holding tight with one arm and reaching out to squeeze or pat Katie's or Adam's arm with the other, while Kathryn had her arms stretched wide around all of them. Occasionally Katie or Adam would turn to their Dad and also receive a kiss.

"We were fine," said Chakotay. "This Starfleet business just took a long time, and . . . " he glanced quickly over at Kathryn before continuing, "I'm afraid we have to go back for the next two days, but after this we will contact you throughout the day so no one will worry."

"Yes my dears," said Kathryn while still alternately hugging the children, "We're alright, it was just the first time we have ever been apart from each other and that scared all of us."

Jonathan, now calmed down said, "We're sorry we were bad. We'll be better tomorrow."

"No you weren't bad," corrected Chakotay, "You were worried and there's a big difference."

B'Elanna, standing off to one side with Tom, wiped the tears that kept trickling down her face, even as fresh ones rolled over her fingers, as she was unable to control the surge of feelings on witnessing this emotion-laden moment between parents and children. Tom tightened his arm around her, quickly swiped at a tear on his cheek and they turned and left the room, knowing this moment would continue for a while.

As they walked outside Tom said, "Wow, I feel completely weak seeing that. When we got home Adam was devastated Kathryn and Chakotay weren't there and then Katie and Jonathan started crying - I couldn't do anything and I felt so helpless."

B'Elanna nodded. "There is so much love in that family. Tom we must show our children how much we love them more often, be more open with them. This is a lesson for us."

He hugged her and nodded, then said "Hey what about an outdoor barbeque tonight. I can pick up stuff from the store after I pick up Thomas and Kathryn from school."

B'Elanna grinned. "Sounds great - for us. They are all vegetarians now, haven't touched meat in fifteen years." She thought a minute and then told him to pick up some Veggie burgers and corn and he left.

When B'Elanna walked back into the house she found them all sitting on the couch in the front room, Jonathan beside Chakotay, Katie in the middle, then Kathryn and Adam. Smiling she asked if everything was okay and received smiles and nods from all.

For the rest of the evening the children stayed close to their parents, and even when Kathryn or Chakotay stood up or moved about in the immediate room the children's eyes followed every move their parents made. It was obvious the trauma of the afternoon had not dissipated as yet.

That night as Chakotay and Kathryn lay in bed she said, "We must never do that to our children again, sweetheart."

"Agreed, at least not until they have adjusted to all this and are older. It was our fault. We just didn't prepare them enough for the possible time involved. I'm sure in their mind, even though we told them it would be afternoon, they fully expected we would be back here when Tom brought them back home. Tomorrow we call them every hour."

*******

The debriefings the next day was completed in only two hours, then Captain Williams escorted them around the base to meet various Admirals and other high-ranking officers. However, between the debriefing and meeting the dignitaries, Chakotay and Kathryn got Captain Williams to let them place a call to Tom.

When Tom answered and saw Kathryn he called to the children who could be seen in the background sitting quietly on the couch. "Hey guys, here's your mom."

They quickly came over and were astonished to see Kathryn on 'this thing'. Jonathan reached out and touched the screen. "I can see you but I can't feel you momma," he said puzzled. Kathryn laughed and asked Tom to explain it to them later. The children looked back and down at some commotion and all started laughing. Adam smiling said, "Tom's on the floor right now wrestling with the two dogs!"

Adam then asked the whereabouts of Dad and Chakotay ducked his head in front of Kathryn, crossed his eyes and said "Aye lads and lassie, I'm right here," which brought gales of laughter from all the children as well as Kathryn, who swatted his shoulder.

Chakotay then grabbed his shoulder and said, "You mother just hit me."

"Aw you're alright Daddy," said Katie. "It was only a love tap."

Kathryn still laughing pushed him away, said they wouldn't be as late today and signed off.

Their next stop was the Housing Officer, where they had to wait awhile before they could see him. Once in his office they were asked what kind and how large a house they wanted, acreage or not and how many bedrooms. After several more questions he said he had a general feel of what they wanted and what area, and they likely would have something to look at by the Gala. He then checked to see if B'Elanna and Harry were finished with their debriefing yet, but were told they were still busy, so Ensign Pierce was called to escort them to the Purser's Office. On the way they asked for a Communications Panel and once again talked to their children, this time telling them they wouldn't be much longer.

The Purser gave them their Official Retirement Disc with all relevant information, a disk containing their private code and password to various departments, and yet another having an account number for their back pay credits. Lastly they had up-to-date pictures taken for the ID Badge they would wear whenever entering Starfleet functions.

As they walked out of the Purser's office Kathryn and Chakotay looked at one another and smiled. Beyond unloading Voyager II they were finished! Harry and B'Elanna met them a short time later in the Lounge and Harry announced he had procured a one days delay in unloading so they could all head home!

As the four entered the house they saw no one and found it disconcertingly quiet. Suddenly Chakotay heard a yell and laughter coming from the backyard. Walking outside they found Adam, Katie, Jonathan, Thomas, Kathryn and Tom all playing Leap Frog. Then just as Tom was walking over Katie, she playfully and suddenly reared up, and her head caught Tom square in the groin. As he collapsed in pain he groaned, "That's twice young lady," but the kids thought he was playacting and all piled on top of him. B'Elanna, Chakotay and Kathryn couldn't stop laughing even though they knew Tom was in pain at the bottom of that pile!

Once the children realized their parents were there they insisted all four of the grownups join them so they would all have a 'horse' to ride. Eventually play stopped as the adults wore out, and they retired inside to "a most wonderful moment" as Kathryn described it - a fresh, hot cup of coffee!

*******

The next few days were, for the most part, relaxing. As they were guests in Tom and B'Elanna's house for awhile yet, Kathryn had B'Elanna take her shopping so she could buy some nightclothes along with new clothes for everyone for the Gala. They also got Voyager II unloaded and their possessions stored in the back of Tom's Shuttle Port.

The night before the Gala something unexpected happened. Chakotay, Kathryn, Tom and B'Elanna were sitting conversing in the front room and all the children were in bed, when Jonathan suddenly came down the stairs, walked over to Chakotay and crawled onto his lap. Kathryn was grateful he at least had his pajama bottoms on. "What are you doing up, Jonathan," Kathryn asked, "Can't sleep?"

He looked at Chakotay solemnly and said, "I have a request, Dad."

"And what is that?" asked Chakotay.

Jonathan said, "Well I've been thinking," then reached up and put his hand on Chakotay's tattoo. "I want to have a Tattoo like yours."

The room became silent as Chakotay looked at him. "You do huh? And just why do you want a Tattoo? Can you give me a good reason?"

Jonathan nodded and said, "Because it's respect for your people, it represents grandpa Kolopak and his people and his beliefs like you taught us, and." he smiled as he added, "because I'm your son."

An intake of breath from Kathryn and soft oh's from Tom and B'Elanna were heard as Chakotay pulled Jonathan to him in a hug. "Sounds like you have thought about this for awhile," he said in a choked voice.

"Uh huh" said Jonathan's muffled voice from Chakotay's shoulder. "I started thinking about it on the planet and now that we are where it can be done I'd really like to have one poppa."

Chakotay looked over at Kathryn and saw her eyes glistening, then put his hands on Jonathan's shoulders, and as Jonathan pulled back and looked at his Dad, Chakotay smiled and said "You have given your mother and I sound reasons, so we'll see what we can do . . . but not right away!"

Jonathan broke into a large smile, kissed his dad and then his mother and ran out of the room and up the stairs.

"What do you want to bet within five minutes Adam and Katie are going to be down here," said Tom.

"Not even five, Tom," said Chakotay as he heard footsteps upstairs. Soon Adam and Katie walked in.

"Dad, Jonathan says he's going to have a Tattoo," said Adam.

"Yes he gave very good reasons for wanting one, but I want to quickly add you don't have to have one if you don't want to, Adam, or if you're not sure and are only asking because of Jonathan, take your time and think about it."

Adam nodded his head. "I think it's best if I think about it for awhile," smiled and turned for the stairs.

"And Katie," continued Chakotay as he looked at her, "The women of our tribe don't wear a tattoo."

"Okay," she said with a smile, "I understand," and turned for the stairs. As she reached them she turned, looked back, got a big, mischievous smile and said, "But I just might go against that tradition when I'm older," and ran up the stairs giggling like mad.

Chakotay looked at Kathryn. "Katie is definitely your daughter!" and everyone broke into loud laughter.

*******

At last the day of the Welcome Home Gala arrived. During the week Communiqué's from Starfleet kept arriving - most crewmembers had been contacted, dress will be casual, sixty crewmembers have accepted so far, it will be Buffet style, eighty-five have accepted, there will be a band for dancing, and this morning the final announcement that one hundred ten crewmembers would be there, the remainder had other commitments, were out on missions or otherwise unavoidably detained, but all would send messages.

Unfortunately a few had passed away.

Ensign Pierce arrived at 1800 hours to pick up both families and deposited them at a back door of the Reception Hall, where Chakotay's family was taken to a private room while Tom, B'Elanna and their children walked into the main room and joined the throngs of people. The air was charged with electricity as everyone awaited the start of formalities, especially the former crewmembers, all of who were anxious to see their Captain and Commander. Many of the dignitaries were already seated on the stage and Admiral Franklin walked out right at the appointed time.

"I have just been told in no uncertain terms by Captain Janeway to keep this program short so they may visit with you," and after the laughter had subsided he said, "So I shall. It gives me great pleasure to bring out on this stage so that we may all welcome them back to Earth, Captain Janeway, Commander Chakotay and their children Adam, Katie and Jonathan." As the family walked out from a side door onto the stage it was a familiar sight as seen on the news upon their arrival on earth: Chakotay carrying Jonathan, Katie between her two parents and holding their hands and Adam on the far side of Kathryn. Thunderous applause, cheers and whistles greeted their appearance with this uproar lasting a full three minutes before Admiral Franklin could get them to subside.

The Admiral indicated for the family to sit in five chairs situated beside the lectern and the festivities started. Unfortunately not all adhered to what Kathryn had requested and all had to give a speech or say a few words. As this droned on Kathryn leaned back and turned her head as if trying to see something off to one side and whispered to Chakotay, "I never realized how boring and dry Starfleet receptions were." Chakotay almost choked trying to suppress his laughter.

At last the Admiral called Kathryn and Chakotay to the podium where they were presented with the Medal of Meritorious Achievement and it was announced that as part of their retirement benefits, they would receive free lifetime housing, a house being available for them to look at tomorrow, and that all their natural born children would receive invitations and scholarships to attend Starfleet Academy should they wish to do so.

Neelix then bounded up on the stage and after hugging the Captain and Commander, and letting them know they just had to come to his restaurant and would receive free meals every time, announced the crewmembers of Voyager were getting them a little gift, "well not little in an actual sense," he said stumbling about in his usual manner of trying to say something, "but they would no longer have the need for others transportation help. Tomorrow they would have their own Shuttle, compliments of Voyager's crew." He ended with "Welcome Back my dear Captain and Commander." Kathryn and Chakotay were stunned at this gift, to say the least. Videos of absent crewmen were played, one of which was Seven of Nine. She was now Chief Engineer on a ship exploring the lower part of the Delta Quadrant and expressed her regret at missing them, but assured them she would send a communiqué upon her return.

The Admiral then indicated for Captain Janeway to say a few words. Instead she took hold of Chakotay's arm and had him join her. Looking out at the sea of faces she smiled and said, "First of all thank you for that magnificent gift! Chakotay and I are overwhelmed. And second, I wonder if when the Admiral extended the offer about Starfleet Academy for our children he realized I'm still very fertile and in fact in five months we will have another child?"

The room exploded in laughter and cheers, along with calls of congratulations. Kathryn then looked at Chakotay and smiled. "I said a few words upon our arrival on Earth, so I think it's Chakotay's turn," and immediately stepped aside and looked at him.

Chakotay grinned and stepped in front of the Lectern. "I should have known she would do something like that, still trying to act as Captain and give orders," and when the laughter finally subsided he said in a serious tone, "I want to thank Admiral Franklin for this welcome and Starfleet for all their generosity . . . the sending out of a ship to find and bring us home, the honors they bestowed upon us and our children, the housing and the 'small' financial settlement," he added with a grin. "But I'm going to follow Kathryn's order even if no one else did. We want to visit with all of you, we feel that's why we're here, and also . . . let's eat - I'm starved!" And with that he stepped over to Kathryn and gave her a big kiss and hug, then as he stood smiling and listening to all the catcalls and hoots, suddenly placed a hand on Kathryn's stomach and grinned broadly, which virtually brought the house down.

The Admiral, sporting a big grin, took the hint and ended the formalities, the band started playing music and Kathryn and Chakotay and the children moved off the stage. Thomas and Kathryn stepped forward, took Adam, Katie and Jonathan and headed for a back 'play' room where the children could entertain themselves while the grownups 'did their thing' as Thomas called it.

Later back at the house as they sprawled in exhaustion and the children were all in bed, Kathryn heaved a big sigh. "This was a marvelous night and it was so wonderful to see everyone!"

"And did you notice," added Chakotay, "Everyone got old but us?" They all laughed and Chakotay agreed how good it was to see everybody, but the video messages from those unable to attend were very poignant and moving, especially in light of some of the things they said.

"Yes," said Kathryn, "But I cried after the video from Lt. Ayala was played and we were then told he was killed two days later." Chakotay nodded and tightened his arm around her as he kissed the top of her head.

Finally everyone retired for the evening. Tomorrow, Kathryn and Chakotay would go look at the house Starfleet had for them. It sounded nice and it was in an area not far from and in between Harry and Tom and B'Elanna's homes.

***

The next day as they wandered around the house they were absolutely thrilled. It was four bedrooms, which meant the three children would all have their own room, plus another for when their next child was born, and had all the latest conveniences as well as a large backyard, where the children were already playing. And in the Shuttle Port was a beautiful, sleek new Shuttle, with a card on the front window reading, ‘compliments of The Voyager Crew.'

Standing in the middle of the empty living room Kathryn put her arms around Chakotay and looked at him. "This house is perfect. I am so blessed. And to think I have all this - you in my life, three wonderful children with another soon, we're back on earth and now a beautiful home to share our love in - and all because I suddenly went into a deep depression and became silent."

"Your silence was a sound Kathryn. It was a cry for help, a cry for change, and once you initiated that change, the silence became the words I love you, followed by the voice and the laughter and love of children - our children, born from the words you finally spoke."

She looked at him, her eyes full of love, and then kissed him, lightly at first, then strongly and deeply. As she finally pulled away she put her head on his shoulder for a moment and felt the strength of his arms around her as she listened to his heart.

Lifting her head she smiled. "I love the result, but I never want to feel that way again and as long as you are with me I never will. I love you, my dear, dear Chakotay, with every fiber of my being."

"And I love you, Kathryn, more than life itself."

Chakotay tightened his arms around her and after a moment Kathryn said, "Tomorrow we will go out and shop for furnishings for our new home and also make plans for our wed -"

At that moment they heard loud laughter and looking down the hall towards the back window saw their children out in the large yard, laughing and tumbling around as they played Tag. Smiling, Kathryn and Chakotay headed outside to join them.

****

The following two weeks were busy ones for Chakotay and Kathryn as they shopped for furniture and furnishings for their new home. Although grateful to B'Elanna and Tom for allowing them to stay in their house, they did not want to impose on them any longer than necessary. Chakotay had tried to leave the decorating up to Kathryn, saying whatever she got was fine with him, but she would have none of that and insisted he be with her for all selections. The only thing he offered was to repeat what he had told her on the planet --- 'one bedroom, one bed' and they both got a big chuckle out of that.

On two days B'Elanna accompanied Kathryn on her shopping, so Chakotay decided to work at the new house, and had B'Elanna drop him off. He worked in the backyard, building an arbor in one corner. On the other day he and Tom went by a Nursery Garden where he found two Climbing Rose plants, one yellow/orange and the other a very deep pink. The two men immediately set about planting them, one each side of the Arbor.

In between this flurry of activity Adam, Katie and Jonathan were taken to the nearby school and their registration was taken care of. Kathryn discovered she and Chakotay had done a pretty good job of teaching out there on the planet. The children were all slightly ahead of their class level, but Kathryn felt it was best the children remain where they were assigned, at least for the rest of the year, while they adjusted to teachers and classmates. Chakotay wholeheartedly agreed.

The other matter to be taken care of was the reaffirming of their vows. This was important to both of them, but especially to Kathryn, as she still giggled about the fact she had married them and in essence married herself.

In this regard one day was set aside whereby they shopped for new rings, as Chakotay adamantly decided he wanted to replace the silver one he had found one day for Kathryn at the far away village. He told her he wanted something simple "but from the heart." Kathryn loved the band she wore even though she admitted it was rather' ugly.' The day Chakotay had placed it on her finger she felt her heart soaring as if her soul had a rebirth

.

Conversely, Kathryn also wanted to give Chakotay a new ring as, in her mind, the band she had gotten him looked like a piece of cheap tin, and was almost worn through from his hard work on that planet. Chakotay smiled, but told Kathryn he would simply move the old ring to his other hand and continue to wear it, as it had a special meaning and place in his heart.

The day was successful and the rings obtained, much to each other's pleasure and it was determined the wedding would be a small, informal ceremony on the day they moved into their new home, and to take place in the backyard, with only the Bridge staff, Neelix, the EMH - if his program could be located - and Seven of Nine if she was back from her mission, invited to attend, as well as a select few friends. The deadline for that event was set to occur in two weeks.

Following an inquiry to Starfleet about EMH programs, Chakotay went to the Medical Research Office, and was informed all obsolete EMH programs were held in the Reference Storage Area. After signing in, the Lieutenant escorted him to the room, said he could look around and left to answer a communication bell that was insistently beeping.

Chakotay found the EMH aisle and was amazed at how many discs were on the shelf. A half hour later he spotted one that looked familiar and upon close inspection found a notation of Voyager. He immediately shoved the disc into his pocket and went in search of the Lt, finally spotting him working in another aisle.

"Lieutenant, what happens to old EMH discs?'

"Most of them are discarded, some are used as reference and others are used for scrap parts," he replied.

"How do you know which ones are scheduled to be discarded?"

"A communiqué lists serial numbers of those to be discarded or destroyed."

Chakotay pulled the disc out of his pocket and asked if there were any way he could check on the serial number of this disc. The Lt first checked his computer listing, found the serial number and searched for that information.

"Oh here it is. I'm sorry, Commander, that disc was destroyed several years ago," he said with a serious expression on his countenance.

"Destroyed?" asked Chakotay as he put the disc back in his pocket.

"Yes sir, it says the original was destroyed. The one you have looks pretty beat up and old. Too bad it doesn't work."

"What if a disc was scheduled to be destroyed and a mistake was made, it was missed and is still lying around?"

The Lt looked at him for several minutes and slowly leaned back in his chair, and interlaced his fingers behind his head. "Well, Commander, I would say if that happened, and it couldn't possibly happen you understand, the disc doesn't exist," then he slowly smiled. Suddenly he stood and leaned forward and in a quiet voice said, "Look, Commander, if you found your EMH keep it, and you didn't hear it here, sir. The disc was ordered destroyed and therefore it was destroyed." Grinning he whispered, "I know your EMH helped you a lot out there in the Delta Quadrant and he has sentimental value for you. I remember there was a lot of debate about destroying his program before the final order came down."

Chakotay grinned widely and clapped the Lt on the shoulder. "It is nice to know there is still some heart within Starfleet," then he turned to leave.

"Good luck, Commander - I hope everything turns out okay," said the Lt with a sly smile, and as Chakotay gave him a ‘thumbs up,' the Lt winked.

Chakotay hurried to their new home and found Kathryn and B'Elanna putting away the new set of dishes that had arrived. Reaching in his pocket, he grinned and said, "Guess who I found today?"

Kathryn turned and looked at him, a puzzled look on her face "Who dear?" she asked as he gave her a kiss.

Pulling the disc out of his pocket, he held it up and then extended it to B'Elanna. "Want to check and see if you can perform a miracle?"

B'Elanna looked at the disc, and then up at Chakotay. "You found our EMH? Rumor was his program was destroyed several years ago, but I could never confirm it!"

"Well work on it and see what you can do. If we can get the program to work it's ours, because his program is listed in the computer as being destroyed several years ago, and an unnamed Lt said if it's destroyed it just doesn't exist!" he said with a smug grin.

"Chakotay, you didn't just take this?" asked Kathryn.

"No, hon, it's like I told you - the Lt gave it to me in his own way. Said it was shown as destroyed, therefore, what I was holding in my hand didn't exist!"

B'Elanna and Kathryn smirked as they glanced at one another and then B'Elanna said she would take it home tonight and work on it. With that the ladies returned to their organizing and Chakotay went outside to plant more shrubs and flowers that Tom had graciously picked up for him.

That night after dinner B'Elanna sat off to one side working on the EMH program while Tom, Kathryn and Chakotay sat back and relaxed, sometimes glancing at B'Elanna while the trio engaged in conversation.

"Whoever had this program sure played around with it," mused B'Elanna. "A lot has been deleted, and some information is pretty rough, but it looks like the basic program is still there." She then turned to her console and said," Well let's see what happens." Everyone sat forward as she inserted the disc into the drive.

A static and snow-filled image sputtered and B'Elanna removed the disc, made an adjustment and tried again, with the same result. For thirty minutes this process was repeated. Finally B'Elanna, by now her Klingon half getting the better of her patience, growled, "I've done all I can. Either it works this time or the program is damaged beyond repair," and stuck the disc in the drive one final time.

A shimmering image appeared and finally took shape as it said, "What is the nature of . . . the . . . med . . . i . . . Where am I? This isn't Voyager or Starfleet."

Everyone in the room smiled, and B'Elanna stepped in front of the Doctor and smiled. "Welcome back, Doctor."

"B'Elanna!" Then he looked around, "Captain, Commander, Mr. Paris - I don't understand!"

Kathryn walked over to him smiling. "Hello Doctor. Nice to see you again."

"Are we back in the Delta Quadrant somewhere?" he asked, a very puzzled look on his face.

"Actually you are in Tom's and my home," said B'Elanna. "You - and we - need a lot of catching up. First of all tell us the last thing you remember."

"Well, we got back to Earth and . . . Captain! You weren't with us when we arrived back, what has happened anyway, I feel so confused!"

For the next hour the Doctor was plied with questions as well as having many himself, and everyone was brought up to date. Apparently the Doctor's program was continually examined to determine how he had managed to upgrade himself and 'grow a personality' and then all he remembered was someone saying he's old and antiquated and of no further use to us and his program was shut down. The Doctor's memory, and facts gleaned by B'Elanna as she probed his circuits, ascertained he had been offline for the last five years.

"Well Doctor, I'm glad you're back and for your information you belong to Kathryn and I. So in a few days when we move into our new home you will be staying with us."

The Doctor was pleased, and smiling smugly, told them he would help in any way they needed, but in truth he was just plain happy to be online again

*******

Two days before Kathryn and Chakotay's ceremony, Chakotay was called by an Administrator to pick up Jonathan from school. He was being released early as his teacher was ill and they couldn't find a replacement. As Jonathan climbed in, and after a hug and kiss, Chakotay smiled secretly at him and said they had some business to attend to before going home.

Jonathan looked puzzled a moment, and then grinned in excitement as he asked hopefully, "Is today the day, Dad?"

"Sure is. I finally found a good person and as you have been so insistent it be done before your mom and I reaffirm our vows two days from now . . . " Chakotay stopped and looked at his son and just smiled. Jonathan couldn't sit still or contain his excitement for the rest of the trip.

An hour and a half later Chakotay leaned forward and peered closely at Jonathan's forehead as he sat in the chair. The design looked all right, although a little pinched together. He held up a mirror and Jonathan excitedly took his first look at his Tattoo. "Wow! It's super, Dad. I love it! Thank you poppa," he exclaimed, and reached out and gave Chakotay a big hug.

As they left the Design Parlor Jonathan kept putting his hand to his forehead, before Chakotay finally got him to stop, saying he wasn't supposed to touch it for a while. On the way home Jonathan kept saying he couldn't wait to show mom, but Chakotay, with a mischievous grin said, "Let's not tell her - let's just walk in normally and see how long it will take her to notice." Jonathan laughed at that and thought that was a great idea.

The furniture they had recently purchased was scheduled for delivery this afternoon, and when Chakotay and Jonathan arrived, sure enough the truck was out front, as well as Tom and Harry's shuttles. Walking in, the house appeared and sounded like chaos. Delivery men scurrying in and out, Kathryn directing traffic, and B'Elanna, Tom and Harry heading upstairs with tools in their hands.

"Hi sweetheart, need a hand?" asked Chakotay as he kissed her.

"Chakotay. I'm glad you're here. Go upstairs and help Tom and Harry set up the beds and ask B'Elanna to . . . " just then she saw him grinning. "Why are you smiling like that? You look like the cat that swallowed the canary." She turned and started to ask, "Where's

Jonathan . . . " when she saw him standing in the middle of the room, a broad smile on his face.

"Why are you two smiling like that? What's going on with you two?" Just then she spotted the Tattoo and her hand flew to her mouth, then she got a great big smile on her face, squatted down and held her arms out to Jonathan. He ran over to her and almost shouting he was so excited, said, "Dad had me get my Tattoo today! Do you like it mom?"

Kathryn examined it closely whiled Jonathan feared she would disapprove. The she smiled. "It's beautiful, sweetheart." Looking up at Chakotay she said, "It seems a little tight, though."

"The man said that allows for growth. As Jonathan gets bigger the Tattoo will stretch and eventually look just like mine."

"Makes sense." Kathryn then looked back at Jonathan. "How about you honey, do you like it?"

Jonathan couldn't stop smiling as he said "I love it, momma. I'm so proud!"

Kathryn placed her hands on his cheeks. If Jonathan wasn't the spitting image of Chakotay before he sure was now as she looked at those brown eyes, dimples and lips, and now the Tattoo. "I'm proud, too, Jonathan," she said softly, "but you must remember that Tattoo isn't just a picture, it carries a lot of tradition and responsibility."

"I know." Then he looked at both parents and added in a serious tone, "I wont let you down."

Kathryn nodded and told him to go show his Aunt and Uncles upstairs, turned to Chakotay and as he put his arms around her said, "This just might have started something, sweetheart."

He hugged her. "I know. I have a very strong feeling Adam and Katie will also get a Tattoo in a few years and on the way home Jonathan announced that when he got married and had kids they would all have a Tattoo."

Kathryn smiled and said huskily, "A tradition and now a possible legacy."

The remainder of the day was spent getting the furniture set in each room, with Kathryn changing her mind several times on the arrangement. Finally Tom said, "Look Kathryn, it's time to pick up the kids and get something to eat. Let it rest overnight as is, and look at it fresh in the morning when you come back."

"Good idea, Tom," she answered after a delay. "We've done enough for today and we're all tired."

Chakotay turned to Tom and Harry. "Whew. For a minute there I thought she was going to keep cracking the whip," and all three men burst out laughing.

"Oh stop it you three, and I heard that Chakotay! Speaking of food, let's all eat at Neelix' restaurant tonight. He's catering our ceremony and a short time ago he called and suggested several dishes that I've never heard of." He voice lowered an octave as she continued with, "I want to taste these items before I say yes, plus I have emphasized absolutely no Leola root," and then started laughing.

*******

The night before the ceremony both Kathryn and Chakotay were caught off guard when all the children came to them as they were retiring for the evening. Adam had gone into the computer database to study earth traditions on marriages and consequently all the children decided they wanted to be involved. They felt their solution was simple: Adam would give Kathryn away, Jonathan would stand up as Chakotay's best man and Katie would be the ring bearer.

Both Kathryn and Chakotay were thunderstruck and sat down hard on the bed as those words and meaning penetrated their minds. Almost immediately following their recovery from hearing this decision Kathryn and Chakotay, gratefully and with much love, hugs, kisses and a few tears, accepted

Everyone was up early the following morning. Kathryn hadn't thought much of the arrangements other than a minister and food, trying to keep things simple. By mid-morning she and Chakotay had packed their remaining belongings and were ready to take up residence at their new home following the ceremony.

At last the time to leave arrived and Tom got the shuttle out, the group boarded and headed over to their house - finding Harry already there waiting. While Kathryn and B'Elanna went inside, Chakotay, with Tom and Harry's help, carried, with much difficulty due to the weight, Chakotay's 'surprise gift' he had purchased on the planet before they left. They moved it to the backyard and centered it under the Arbor.

Kathryn seeing this walked outside smiling. "Do I finally get to see it?" she asked.

"Nope," said Chakotay. "It doesn't get unwrapped until after the ceremony."

Kathryn laughed. "You're terrible - but I love you anyway," and kissed him before heading back inside.

Kathryn and Chakotay were pleasantly surprised an hour before the ceremony when Tuvok arrived with T'Pel. They were overjoyed to finally meet Tuvok's wife and insisted they both spend a few nights with them in their new home. Tuvok accepted for the following two nights, but for this night they had other business to attend to.

Finally with all the guests and minister present, soft music started playing in the background and the ceremony got underway at the stated time. Chakotay entered the backyard from the side of the house, his one hand resting lightly on Jonathan's upraised arm, and who despite wanting to be serious, couldn't stop smiling. Adam then walked out from the backdoor of the house, proudly escorting Kathryn, and was followed by Katie, smiling broadly and holding a velvet pillow with two small boxes perched on top. All of the guests smiled broadly upon seeing the children involved in this manner. After escorting their parents to their proper position, Jonathan and Adam stepped to one side, looked at one another and grinned.

A few traditional words were spoken at the start of the ceremony and then both Kathryn and Chakotay gave private words and pledges of love, with both mentioning the time on the planet. The rings were placed on the fingers and the words "I now pronounce you husband and wife," were said, with the minister, after a brief hesitation, adding "Again" as he smiled broadly.

After kissing his bride and again saying how much he loved her Chakotay moved to the Arbor and started unwrapping his present, with Adam, Katie and Jonathan helping. Finally the wrapping was untied, and as Chakotay looked at Kathryn and smiled, he pulled off the wrapping.

Loud 'ooh's', 'oh's' and ‘ah's' erupted from the guests and Kathryn placed both hands to her face and stared in complete awe before tears started to trickle down her cheeks.

It was a sculpture of a family with a woman sitting in a chair holding a baby, a man kneeling to the side with one hand stretched to the top of the baby's head and two children, a young boy and girl, sitting at the woman's feet.

To everyone present, this sculpture obviously represented the Chakotay family, as the likeness was unmistakable, even to the markings on the man's forehead.

Kathryn was completely overcome and Chakotay, seeing her emotion, quickly moved and wrapped his arms around her body, pulling her close as he kissed her on the cheek.

"Did you have that made, sweetheart?" asked Kathryn through her tears and in a very raw, emotion-filled voice.

"No. That last day I just happened to run into Bartu as we were starting to head back to the Shuttle and when I told him we wouldn't be back anymore, he insisted I come with him as he had something to give me. The minute I saw it I was blown away and he said that approximately three years ago when he saw all of us at the village this idea for a sculpture came to him. I told him I would love to have it but as we were leaving I didn't have time to barter for its value, but he insisted it was a gift to our family." He hugged Kathryn tighter. "That's why we were late getting back that day. Do you like it?"

"Oh my darling, I love it! It's perfect and looks beautiful under that Arbor. Oh Chakotay I love you so much," she said as she turned her face and gave him a long, long kiss. Following that they stood silently with their arms wrapped around each for a period of time.

While Chakotay and Kathryn were having this conversation, the children and many of the guests were up close to the sculpture, admiring the work and running their hands over it. Kathryn, after a cursory examination and determining she would spend time at the sculpture later when the guests had left, nodded to Neelix to set up the table for the food and the rest of the afternoon and evening was spent mingling and visiting with all the guests.

Later, after everyone had left and Chakotay, Kathryn and the children were ready to spend their first night together in their new home, they wandered out to the backyard and stood admiring the sculpture.

Jonathan suddenly said, "The baby sort of represents me doesn't it, momma?"

"Yes," said Kathryn, "and the boy and girl Adam and Katie."

"Maybe sometime in the next year," added Chakotay, "I can find a good sculptor who can somehow add another child."

"Or," interjected Adam who had been studying the object, "A single sculpture of an older boy standing on the other side of the woman. That could represent me, the boy and girl would be Jonathan and Katie, and the baby our new brother or sister."

"Oh my," smiled Kathryn. "Leave it to our son to figure it out."

They all laughed, put their arms around each other, stood for a few moments admiring the sculpture, and then turned to go inside with Kathryn and Chakotay feeling very blessed. They were back on Earth; they had a wonderful family with another child due in four months, and now were in a new home. What could be better?

The End

February 1999

To be continued with "You're Not Alone Kathryn"

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