Disclaimer: Paramount owns everything Trek. I'm just playing with the characters and the story is all mine.

The Jaimie Series - Part 5

The Runaway

by Dee Price


Jaimie sat staring intently out the view port of her cloaked ship Voyager 2. Her focus was Voyager, dead ahead and gliding majestically through space in the Delta Quadrant. She was currently matching Voyager's speed and despite how many times she had come up on Voyager like this in her travels, she still found herself admiring the beauty and significance of this ship.

In this particular section of the Delta Quadrant, there wasn't much of anything . . . no planets or aliens to help or harass them, and thinking back on Kathryn's logs, Jaimie remembered the statement "this crew is bored to death." They had been using this empty space to get caught up on reports and make repairs, but now everyone was, in a word, 'antsy'. "Well," she mused half aloud, "that will change in about three weeks," but for now, Tom Paris was making up every kind of game and adventure he could think of for use in the holodeck. Even Kathryn and Chakotay had taken part, much to the crew's delight.

It had been five months since she had whisked Kathryn and Chakotay off to the 29th Century for Kobe's funeral, and she knew that although they could not and did not enter that information into their logs, it was deeply imbedded in their memory. Leaning back, she smirked. She had paid for that transgression, being suspended for two months and a letter of reprimand placed in her Personnel File. The first time anything official had ever been placed against her record! It hurt her pride a little, but it was a wonder it hadn't happened before. No matter now.

She leaned forward and tapped information into her control panel and the cloaked ship effortlessly moved up over Voyager and for a few moments assumed a "Shadow Mode", matching Voyager's speed and any maneuver that might occur. Again, she found herself looking down on this Starship for a while, then quietly landed on Voyager's hull and locked on by punching the Magnetic SH button. She spent the next few moments checking the control panel, turning some systems off and making sure everything was set in the right mode.

Standing she moved a step to the rear, hesitated, and turned back. Reaching into a corner of the cockpit she picked up a picture of her sons Kolobek, Chakotay, Roman and Hirato, and Chakotay's children, Jeremiah and Katelyn, and briefly wondered if Kathryn and Chakotay would have any reaction when they saw it. Tucking the picture inside her vest she silently looked around to make sure everything was right, took a deep breath, punched in some numbers on her belt and disappeared.

* * *

Captain Janeway gave a big yawn, followed immediately by a sigh. Tom Paris at the Helm and Chakotay in his First Officer's chair, both turned to look at her. She gave an embarrassed smile. "Sorry, all this excitement is wearing me out."

Both Chakotay and Tom laughed. Ensign Kim from behind said, "I think the only person on this ship who isn't bored, is Mr. Tuvok."

Janeway turned to look back at Tuvok, only to find him looking at Harry with a deep frown. "There is always something to keep one busy, Mr. Kim, and whether I am bored or not is not your concern."

"Sorry, Mr. Tuvok, I didn't mean . . ."

"It's alright, Harry," interrupted the Captain. "Relax a little, Tuvok. Even you must admit this section of space is a little tiring."

"Not at all, Captain. However, I have observed the human species does need some activity at all times to keep from feeling bored. An interesting phenomenon, I must say."

Janeway turned back, and glancing at Chakotay saw he was trying to hide a smile, and found it difficult not to smile herself. She certainly didn't want any action to keep the crew alert, but this inactivity was starting to wear and tear on everyone.

Suddenly she felt an urge to just sit quietly somewhere and have an engaging conversation with Chakotay. That trip to the 29th Century five months ago weighed heavily on her mind. She and Chakotay actually get married and have children! Had it affected the integrity of the command structure in any way? Seemingly it did not, but she wondered how it was worked out. She smiled. Children! How did she manage her duties during the latter stages of her pregnancy? And when does this momentous event occur?

Abruptly she stood, turned to Chakotay. "How about some tea Commander?"

Chakotay almost got a relieved look on his face as he stood. "That sounds great to me, Captain."

They both headed for Janeway's Ready Room as Janeway said, "Tuvok, you have the Bridge. Maybe you can come up with something to keep this crew awake."

"Yes Captain. An exercise in Readiness might help."

Janeway stopped and held up her hand. "Only kidding, Tuvok. Everything is fine."

As the doors slid shut behind them, Chakotay smiled. "Thank you, Kathryn. I was sure I was going to fall asleep any minute!"

"Me too, Chakotay. Peace and quiet is lovely, but I just wish we at least had a planet to explore!"

"Afraid not for awhile. The last sensor sweep indicated nothing ahead for as far as we could extend them."

Kathryn yawned again as she handed Chakotay his cup of Herbal Tea. They both sat on the couch and simultaneously sighed, which caused them both to laugh out loud. "Some Officers we are!" said Kathryn. "Have to slip back to the ready Room for tea to keep ourselves awake."

"Rank has its privileges, Kathryn," said Chakotay with a smile.

"A bit bored are we?" came a voice from across the room.

Both Kathryn and Chakotay glanced in the direction of the voice and, seeing nothing, smiled. "It's been awhile, Jaimie," called out Chakotay as he placed his tea on the table and stood.

"Yep, that it has," replied Jaimie while remaining cloaked.

"Aren't you going to let us see you?" asked Kathryn.

"I'm really too relaxed to get to my belt . . . however, if you insist on viewing this scoundrel, I guess I have to." With that she appeared, laying on the floor with her legs extended up the wall.

"Are you alright?" asked Kathryn.

"Oh I'm fine. I just like this position to relax my legs - or maybe it's to get more blood to my brain!" she said laughing. Then is an agile move she quickly swung her legs over her head and in one fluid motion rolled to her feet and stood. Turning, she walked over and hugged them both. "It's good to see you two again."

"It's wonderful to see you, Jaimie. The last time you were pretty upset over Kobe's death. I certainly hope you are still not blaming yourself," said Chakotay.

A fleeting look of pain crossed through Jaimie's eyes. Looking at Chakotay she said, "I will always blame myself for that. But I have reconciled my mind to the fact he is no longer here and I must move on."

Kathryn reached out and hugged Jaime again - a long, tight hug. Pulling back she looked into Jaimie's eyes with a loving look only a mother could give her child. "I have thought of you so much over the last five months and our relationship. I don't know when Chakotay and I get together, and to be honest, I find myself fearful of pushing or even delaying its onset because of knowing about it."

Jaimie smiled and gave her typical wave of the hand. "In a way it has already happened on the planet Aagon when you and Chakotay went through the Cleansing and Unifying Ceremony. I know you don't recognize that ceremony, Kathryn, but it's just a mater of certain circumstances occurring where that ceremony is recognized for what it was and repeating it. I assure you, it will occur suddenly and without much planning, so stop being concerned."

Jaimie then moved over to the Replicator. "May I? I actually have a Replicator chip I will give you so I wont deplete your allotment."

After getting her tea she moved to a corner of the couch and faced them. Chakotay leaned forward and looked intently at Jaimie. "What is it, Jaimie? Something is bothering you."

"Your 'sense' is sometimes very disturbing, Chakotay," said Jaimie with a smirk.

"Sorry, but I just feel something is different about this visit."

Jaimie sipped her tea, then after placing it on the table leaned back and looked at them. After a moment, she gave a sigh and said, "Okay, there is something different." Hesitating, she turned and looked out the view port, seemingly lost in thought. Both Kathryn and Chakotay, in their infinite wisdom of beginning to understand Jaimie, chose to sit and wait until she was ready to talk.

Finally Jaimie looked back to them, gave another sigh, and said in a matter-of-fact tone, "I've left the 29th Century. I'm tired of it all, burned out maybe. Nothing has been quite right since Kobe died and I just don't enjoy my job anymore."

Neither Kathryn nor Chakotay could conceal their surprise. It was Kathryn who reacted first. "What does Captain Gates say?"

Jaimie smirked. "He doesn't know." Her smirk turned into a smile. " In essence, I have run away from home!" she said and laughed out loud. "Imagine that – a seventy-year old woman like me running away. That's usually what kids do."

"What!" exclaimed both Kathryn.

"What do you mean you have run away from home?" asked Chakotay.

"Just that. I left without telling anyone."

"But Captain Gates will trace you here, wont he?" asked Kathryn.

"Eventually," said Jaimie. "But it will take awhile. I took care of an assignment and then I just didn't go home. Instead, I have gone back and forth in different centuries with my signature masked on all but that first one. I taught Gates everything he knows and he will eventually take on the search himself, and. finally find me. But in the meantime, may I stay here on Voyager with you? I just need to kick back somewhere for awhile and this is the best place I can think of - to be on my favorite ship with my two favorite people."

* * *

"What do you mean you can't find Jaimie?" asked Gates of Jeremiah.

"We just can't find her anywhere," Katelyn interjected. "We've checked every place we can think of and she's just not here!"

"Oh she's somewhere. I gave her an assignment last week and after she completed that task she probably just took off to be by herself for awhile," said Gates with a smile. "Sometimes I don't see her for a period of time after an assignment, so it's not that unusual." He sighed and shook his head. "She still can't get over blaming herself for Kobe's death." Then he stared into space and rubbed his chin. "But she had been rather quiet for the last two weeks. We haven't even had a disagreement."

"See! That's just what we mean. She just hasn't been herself and Grandma has never acted that way before," said Jeremiah. "We are really worried, Captain Gates."

"Can't you do something, Captain?" asked Katelyn. "Sort of inquire around?"

Gates tried to give them a reassuring smile. "I'll ask around, but I'm sure she's just gone off somewhere to be alone and relax for awhile - kind of sort things out and ease her mind about Kobe."

"But where, Captain?" continued Jeremiah. "No one we've talked to has even seen her for one week. Why haven't you missed her or at least wondered where she was?"

Gates looked at them both. Why indeed? Why hadn't he noticed she hadn't been around complaining about something or making him irritated? Smiling, he patted them both on the shoulder and said, "I'll look into it. Go home now and don't worry. I'm sure she's okay."

Jeremiah and Katelyn left and Gates moved to his desk and sat down. Frowning, he leaned back and thought for a while, then tapping his Com Badge, asked Ensign Porter to bring all of Jaimie's reports and travels for the last five months. Quickly he amended that to cover the last three months since she was back on active duty from her suspension.

Within moments Ensign Porter brought the Padd's to him, and after informing the Ensign he did not wish to be disturbed unless there was an absolute emergency, Gates busied himself with studying the first Padd.

* * *

Jaimie's eyes stared intently at the pictures while brushing away the single tear that rolled slowly down her cheek. It had been five weeks since she had come on board Voyager, and she missed her children and grandchildren very much. She knew Jeremiah and Katelyn would be very worried and frightened about her disappearance, but as for her sons, they knew how much she loved Kathryn and Chakotay, and although missing her she felt they would understand . . . especially Kolobek.

Chakotay would shake his head, smile and patiently try to explain to Jeremiah and Katelyn why this had happened. Roman? He was still in the Brig for his ill-advised attempt to kill Kathryn and Chakotay, and she had only been able to see him maybe once every two weeks, but he knew how much she cared for Voyager and would probably just shrug his shoulders and tell her to do what she wanted to do. Hirato was out on a mission and would find out upon his return. Poor Hirato! He always seemed to be away when things happened with the family. He was still highly upset at not meeting Kathryn and Chakotay!

Jaimie walked over to the view port and looked out into space. Chakotay had arranged quarters next to him and except for having to cloak whenever she left the room it had been a relaxing time. The boredom for the crew had ended three weeks ago when Voyager had an encounter with the Krulak's. They were an irritable species, somewhat like the Hirogen - always looking for trouble.

Voyager had suffered some damage and injuries, but last week had made a stop at the planet Zada, made repairs, replenished supplies and Kathryn had been able to give the crew two days shore leave. She herself had played Velocity with Chakotay and Kathryn twice and beat them soundly each time, much to their chagrin. She smiled recalling those times. Actually it could have been much worse, but she had 'let up' a little. Amazing how much the human species had changed in 500 years, that even at 70 years of age she could soundly and easily beat anybody on this ship with her speed and agility.

Suddenly her door chimed. Turning, she looked at it and waited. It chimed again, there was a pause, and then two short bursts. She relaxed . . . it was either Chakotay or Kathryn. Then the door slid open and both walked in, dressed in casual attire.

"You've been playing Velocity and didn't invite me?" she exclaimed.

"Actually it was Hoverball this time," smiled Kathryn. "Besides, you really don't think we wanted to be defeated again, do you?"

"It might even have been worse than Velocity," chimed in Chakotay. Jaimie just grinned and gave them both a hug.

Chakotay pulled his one hand from behind his back and produced a brilliant pink Rose. "For my most favorite descendent," he said smiling.

"Wow," said Jaimie as she found a container and put it in. "It's beautiful. Thank you."

"Well," said Kathryn, "Chakotay may have brought you a rose, but you can't eat that, so . . ." With a big flourish she produced a plate of food she had been holding behind her back.

Jaimie's eyes widened at the heaping plateful. "I sure hope that's not all for me!"

"No, we're all going to have a helping," said Kathryn as she separated two more plates from the first. Reaching into her jacket, she produced a cloth, which contained three forks.

They ate in quiet, comfortable solitude. Kathryn and Chakotay had enjoyed Jaimie's time here very much, and during their stop on Zada, Jaimie had dressed as a native and joined them for an outing on the planet, which included a sail on the lake followed by a picnic. Kathryn gathered up the plates and forks and after putting them into the replicator, sat and looked at Jaimie and Chakotay sitting side by side. The sight and meaning almost overwhelmed her with sudden emotion.

Smiling at the two of them Kathryn said, "Well Jaimie, it's been five weeks and Captain Gates hasn't shown up yet. I must admit, I'm rather glad it has taken him so long."

"But it surprises me that he didn't check Voyager right away," said Chakotay.

Jaimie chuckled. "I guess I covered up my trail better than I thought. That, or Gates has lost his technique. I suspect it won't be much longer, however."

Jaimie had barely finished the sentence when the voice of Tuvok interrupted as he hailed the Captain.

"Janeway here. What is it Mr. Tuvok?"

"Captain, a ship has suddenly appeared and is hailing us - by name."

Kathryn, Chakotay and Jaimie all looked at each other. Jaimie then leaned back, patted Chakotay's thigh and said, "Well, he made it guys."

"Are you sure it's him?" asked Kathryn.

"Oh yeah," replied Jaimie with a grin.

Kathryn and Chakotay stood and headed for the door. "On our way, Tuvok," said Kathryn.

Jaimie stood, cloaked, and followed.

* * *

Janeway strode briskly onto the Bridge, followed closely by Chakotay. Looking forward, she called out "On screen."

Seconds later the visage of Captain Gates appeared. Janeway, indicating no recognition, said, "I'm Captain Kathryn Janeway of the Starship Voyager. I understand you have hailed us."

To Gates' credit, he, too, gave no indication of recognition. In fact, Kathryn noted he was wearing a uniform unlike any she had ever seen before. He was thinking ahead and smart not to wear his Starfleet uniform. That would have been a real faux pas. Smiling he said, "Yes, Captain. I'm Captain Gates and I am searching for a runaway member of my force. It is a rather delicate matter and I wonder if I might beam over to discuss this situation with you."

From behind Janeway heard Tuvok say, "Captain . . . ?"

Holding up her hand, she smiled at Gates and said, "My Security Officer feels concern about this, Captain Gates."

Gates smiled and responded, "I assure you Captain I will have no weapons and your Security Officer may search me. His precaution is admirable."

"All right Captain, we will give you the coordinates and meet you in our transporter room."

"No need, Captain," said Gates and the screen went black. Seconds later Gates appeared on the Bridge holding his hands out from his side to indicate no weapon. Tuvok, with his phaser pointed at the Captain, moved quickly from behind his console and over to where he stood. After scanning him with his tri-corder he turned to Janeway.

"He appears not to be armed, Captain." He then turned back to Gates. "I must ask however, how you hailed us by name?"

"You're reputation in this quadrant is spreading Mr. Tuvok," Gates responded with a slight smile. Tuvok's brow arched as he looked at the Captain.

"Thank you, Mr. Tuvok," said Janeway. "I'm sure everything will be all right. You have the Bridge." Nodding to Chakotay to accompany them all three headed for the Ready Room.

As the doors closed, Janeway turned and with a big smile, extended her hand to Captain Gates. "Nice to see you again, Captain."

Gates smiled broadly as he shook hands first with Janeway, then Chakotay. "Nice to see you Captain, Commander. For a while I thought Jaimie might have back-timed your visit. By your greeting I assume you have not told the crew about your visit to our Century five months ago?"

"No, we haven't Captain. Once we discovered the crew had not suspected we were gone, we decided not to mention it. Now, what is it you wish to discuss that you deem so secret?"

"I think you know, Captain," he said with a smile. "Jaimie left without a word, and although it has taken me longer than anticipated -- she covered her tracks exceedingly well -- I have traced her here to Voyager. In fact with our IRSR, I was able to detect her ship parked on your hull."

Kathryn looked first at Chakotay, then back to Captain Gates. She hesitated then asked, "What kind of trouble is she in?"

"Well she is actually free to go anywhere she wishes, but not with Federation ships. Her ship is high technology, equipped with the latest systems and able to travel to other centuries. Only two others of these exist, but neither is like Jaimie's ship. She also has vast knowledge of technology beyond your comprehension. No offense intended."

"None taken, but you keep referring to it as Jaimie's ship, Captain. In that vein alone it sounds like it is hers."

Gates looked at Janeway with an amused twinkle in his eyes. "Semantics, Captain?"

Janeway smiled. "Touché, Captain Gates. Yes, Jaimie is here, but I assure you she has not touched any system or operated anything other than the Replicator."

Gates laughed out loud. "I bet that thrills her no end."

"She was, however, quite upset and despondent when she arrived here, but in the five weeks she's been on Voyager, her mood has improved greatly."

"I'm sure it has, Captain, considering her love for Voyager and its Captain and First Officer. But the fact remains she stole Federation property and . . ."

"Oh come off it Gates," said Jaimie as she uncloaked. "I didn't steal anything. I built that ship, and invented almost every system and part on it!"

Gates smiled as he turned to face Jaimie. "Hello Jaimie. Nice of you to finally uncloak and be with us."

"Yeah, yeah. You knew I was here, so don't be so sarcastic, you twit."

"Jaimie! Don't speak to your Commanding Officer that way," said Kathryn quickly.

Both Jaimie and Gates laughed at this and Gates responded, "It's quite alright, Captain. Jaimie and I have a . . . 'special' relationship." Turning back to Jaimie, "I'm afraid I'm going to have to take you back, Jaimie. Charges have been leveled against you. Also, as I'm sure you must know, Jeremiah, Katelyn, Chakotay and Kolobek - even Roman - miss you very much."

At the mention of her children and grandchildren, Jaimie's face softened. "How are they, Gates?" she asked quietly.

"Fine, but like I said, very worried."

Jaimie turned and walked over to the view port, crossed her arms over her chest and stared out into the black space. Kathryn and Chakotay looked at one another then Kathryn walked over beside her and gently placed her arm around Jaimie's shoulders. Chakotay moved up on the other side, while Gates, in deference to the moment, stayed where he was.

Jaimie took a deep breath then glanced at Kathryn and Chakotay. "I knew this time would come. Gates is too good not to find me." Turning to Gates she asked, "If they rule I have stolen Federation property - which I have not - what is the penalty?"

Gates shrugged his shoulders. "If you come back voluntarily, have not broken any Time Travel Protocols, not used your knowledge here in the 24th Century . . . maybe four to five years."

Janeway gasped and Chakotay moaned, "Oh no."

Jaimie smiled at Kathryn and Chakotay as she stepped away from them. "Actually, it could be worse. That's a light sentence, not at all what I thought Gates would say!" She then turned to Gates and frowned. "Of course he could be softening the sentence in your presence." Jaimie then walked over to Janeway's desk, sat down, and as she leaned back, stared at Gates.

As the two continued to stare at one another, an uncomfortable silence filled the room.

Finally Jaimie leaned forward. "How is Roman?"

Gates grinned delightedly as he said, "Probably elated that his mother might be spending time with him in jail."

"That's not funny, Captain Gates," growled Chakotay.

Jaimie held her hand up as she looked at Chakotay with a big smile. "It's okay, Chakotay. Actually it is funny. That's a private joke between Gates and I." She leaned back again and said, "I need some time, Gates." Then looking over at Kathryn she asked, "Can you put him up in some quarters overnight?"

Kathryn made a barely discernable movement of her head to Chakotay who immediately moved to the console on Kathryn's desk. "I'll check, Captain. You want it on our deck right? I'm sure there is something. . . ."

"Magnificent," said Gates.

"What is?" asked Janeway.

"Just a look between you and he knows exactly the unspoken order. You definitely have a link between the two of you."

Chakotay smiled and Kathryn found her face flushing slightly. Then she smiled at Captain Gates. "I guess we do. Many times we just look at one another and know immediately what to do or what the other is thinking."

Gates nodded, then said, "What makes you think I will stay, Jaimie?" as he turned to the desk. But Jaimie wasn't there. Gates looked all around the room, then at Chakotay. "You were right beside her, Commander, where did she go?"

Chakotay, a puzzled expression on his face, shook his head. "I don't know. I was listening to you two while looking for empty quarters."

Kathryn first smiled, and then laughed. "Leave it to Jaimie to give us all the slip!"

"Not funny, Captain." growled Gates.

"Actually it is," Janeway replied, using the same retort Jaimie had. Then her expression abruptly changed and she gave Captain Gates a hard look, which secretly made Chakotay smile. Good for you Kathryn, not backing down to even the 29th Century he mused to himself.

"This whole situation is not funny Captain, but let me assure you of this . . . I don't believe Jaimie has run off again. She said she needs time and I believe her," said Janeway maintaining her hard tone.

"I apologize if I have offended you in any way Captain Janeway, but it's taken us awhile to find her. Granted I probably should have checked here first, but I didn't think she would carry it this far. Why does she need time anyway?" he said throwing his hands up in the air. "There is nothing to decide - I have caught her! She just has to go back and face the board and accept any decision they hand down."

"But Captain Gates," added Chakotay, "Jaimie is deeply troubled by Kobe's death. She's not the same Jaimie we once knew. Why can't she be given a leave?"

"For the simple reason she didn't ask, Commander. After her suspension she just went right back to work - didn't tell anyone that she was troubled by anything."

"Suspension?" asked Kathryn.

Oh, oh thought Gates. She didn't tell them. "That's a long story, Captain."

Before Janeway could press for further information, her private line chirped. Chakotay looked down at it, glanced at Kathryn who nodded her head and Chakotay opened the channel.

"Will you guys keep it down in there? I'm trying to sleep," came Jaimie's voice.

Both Kathryn and Chakotay couldn't contain themselves and chuckled as they glanced over at Gates, but Gates growled, "You are using 29th Century technology to tap into this line Jaimie! And also the SEBA to listen to our conversation!"

"Blow it out your ear Gates . . . now keep it down! Goodnight."

Kathryn and Chakotay couldn't stop grinning at Gates. He got a disgusted look on his face and slowly shook his head. Suddenly he threw his hands up in the air and broke into a loud, uproarious laugh. "That's our Jaimie! So where do I sleep tonight?"

* * *

Following breakfast the next morning, Janeway and Chakotay took Captain Gates on a tour of Voyager. The crew had only been told he was looking for a renegade pilot, that he was from a distant planet they would not pass, (not a total lie Chakotay had whispered to Kathryn) and would be leaving sometime that day.

While touring the ship Gates would occasionally comment softly about 'that is a little different than I pictured it', or 'I didn't realize how large that was'."

Unbeknown to all three, Jaimie was tagging along for part of the tour in her cloaked attitude. Finally after they left Engineering she got Kathryn's attention while Chakotay and Gates were talking, and informed her that she would be in the Ready Room when they were finished with the tour.

The last stop was the Bridge and after walking around and talking to Tuvok, Harry and Paris, Janeway suggested coffee or tea before Captain Gates left.

"Thank you. That sounds good, Captain," he responded, and the three of them adjourned to the Captain's Ready Room.

When they were almost finished, Jaimie made her presence known. Gates smiled at her. "Ready to go, Jaimie," he asked.

Jaimie glanced at him and walked over to Kathryn who moments ago had moved to her desk to check some data. Placing her hands on the desk she leaned forward, reminiscent of the time they had first met and she had told Kathryn "I don't give a rat's ass what you want." After a moment's hesitation she looked Kathryn in the eye and said, "Kathryn, I'm awfully sorry . . ."

Kathryn interrupted by immediately standing and reaching out to place her hand on Jaimie's shoulder, a deep look of compassion on her face. "Oh Jaimie, I understand completely. It has been a wonderful five weeks with you here. I just hope they are lenient and soften your sentence"

A pained look crossed Jaimie's face and she shook her head. "I'm afraid you don't understand, Kathryn. What I started to say was I'm sorry to do this to you . . ." and she looked down at the desk momentarily, took a deep breath and then standing erect continued, "But I respectfully request political asylum on Voyager."

Kathryn's legs went weak and she dropped heavily into her chair. Chakotay stared at Jaimie, his eyes wide in complete amazement, and Captain Gates' jaw dropped and his mouth formed an 'O' as he stood absolutely stunned.

Finally recovering his senses Gates walked quickly to where Jaimie stood. "What? What are you saying?"

Jaimie turned to Gates. "Are you deaf? I'm requesting political asylum, Gates. I'm not going back. I don't have anything more to accomplish at home . . . my kids are all grown, Jeremiah and Katelyn are adults now, and I want to retire. What better place than with my ancestors and watch them make history."

"This is unheard of! It's unacceptable! Jaimie, you can't do this!" exploded Gates. Then turning to face Janeway, "She can't do this, Captain!"

Janeway, who by now had recovered from her own amazement at Jaimie's request, looked from Jaimie to Captain Gates. "I'm afraid she can Captain. The Federation, at least in our century, covers this request very specifically."

"But she has no political reason - only a personal wish! Surely you will turn her down, Captain." He hesitated trying to gather his thoughts then continued, "Just think about it! Jaimie is from 500 years in the future. She has knowledge of technology beyond your comprehension. Those ramifications alone are justification to say no, Captain! This is unheard of in the history of the Federation, to just simply go live in another century!"

"Maybe so, Captain," responded Kathryn, "But she does have the right to request political asylum, and I assure you I am well aware of the ramifications of this request." Kathryn then stood and moved from behind her desk to Jaimie's side. "Somehow I think this was in the back of your mind when you first came here. Am I right, Jaimie?"

Jaimie nodded. "It was my intention from the beginning, Kathryn. That's why I didn't bring anything or any of my equipment, except for the ship of course. I've thought this through."

Then turning to Gates she continued, "I've considered this from the time of my suspension Gates. I've studied our Federation and their Federation laws and there is absolutely nothing mentioning asylum from another century. It is strictly Kathryn's decision on whether to allow me to stay or not."

Chakotay, who had been standing silently in the background absorbing all this, moved beside Jaimie. His look held both compassion and trepidation. "Jaimie, despite the long period of time considering this, are you really sure you want to do this? How can you just leave your children and grandchildren? And think of missing seeing your Great Grandchildren when Jeremiah and Katelyn find mates and marry."

Jaimie smiled and slipped her arms around Chakotay's neck. "I've thought of that Chakotay, and I will miss them desperately, but they will understand my decision, knowing my love for you and Kathryn and this ship."

"But if Captain Gates leaves you here and returns with your ship, what happens if you change your mind and want to go back home?"

Turning to face Gates she said, "I'm sure Gates and I can come up with some means of communication to cover that eventuality. But I don't feel it will happen."

Gates, still with a flustered expression, said, "I suppose you have already figured out that 'means of communication'?"

Jaimie playfully patted him on the shoulder as she said "Of course! And I am quite sure it has already entered you mind, too."

Gates then turned to Janeway. "Captain, I really must protest and ask you to turn down Jaimie's request."

Kathryn looked from one face to the other and then walked over to the view port and assumed her 'command stature' as Chakotay called it, by spacing her feet, placing her hands on her hips and standing tall. Finally she turned and faced Gates.

"Give me some time to evaluate this and talk privately with both Jaimie and yourself. Chakotay, return to the Bridge. I'll call you back when I am ready to announce my decision. Jaimie, could you please return to your quarters while I talk with Captain Gates?"

"And no SEBA, Jaimie," cautioned Gates.

"You don't trust me, Gates?" she said with a smirk. "Well, be that as it may, I give you my word I will not listen in." And with that she disappeared.

Kathryn spent the next hour talking with Gates, then forty-five minutes with Jaimie. Deciding she wanted to also consult with Chakotay, she called him in while Gates decided to talk privately with Jaimie in her quarters.

Kathryn and Chakotay spent thirty minutes discussing the subject pro and con. Finally she sighed, and leaning back in her chair closed her eyes, deep in thought. Chakotay moved to the couch, knowing Kathryn was now evaluating her decision. He had no idea how she was going to rule, but deep in his heart, he wished Jaimie could stay, yet knew it presented problems of a great magnitude.

Ten minutes later Kathryn leaned forward and tapped her Com badge. "Captain Gates, I'm ready." Chakotay stood and walked over to her side, studying her face, trying to find the decision in her expression. She had made her choice quite quickly Chakotay thought, and he didn't know if that was bad or good for Jaimie.

Gates and Jaimie appeared and Kathryn silently marveled at the change in that technology. Both looked expectantly at her. "I must admit this has been a very difficult decision, especially as I love Jaimie so much and know of her relationship to Chakotay and I."

Gates, sensing from those words Jaimie would be turned down, looked at Jaimie and gave her a sympathetic smile. But Jaimie just continued to concentrate on Kathryn.

Janeway continued. "The ramifications of her knowledge, her advanced technology, are a concern. Despite her promise to not use that knowledge or technology I find myself wondering at the possibility of reacting with it in times of conflict." Janeway paused, looking at all three one by one. She then took a deep breath. "This is big, probably the biggest personal decision I have had to make thus far and probably the biggest I will ever have to make, but Chakotay and I discussed this request from every conceivable angle, pro and con, inside and out, and I have finally decided. But," and she held up her forefinger, "before I state my decision I want to again ask Jaimie if you sure this is what you want to do?"

Gates frowned at that wording, but Jaimie nodded and in a firm voice replied, "Yes it is, Kathryn."

Kathryn looked from Jaimie to Gates to Chakotay and back to Jaimie and Captain Gates. ". . . and you both agree to accept my decision?"

Both nodded.

"Then I have decided to grant Jaimie's request for asylum, with the un-revocable agreement from Jaimie that she never, ever, attempt to use or implement her technological knowledge on Voyager, and that if she in any way, and I mean even a miniscule way, use her technology, she will immediately arrange to return to her own century."

Chakotay, who had now moved slightly behind Kathryn, glanced quickly at Jaimie. She didn't show the slightest trace of emotion, but Gates was totally stunned. His mouth worked without a sound and his shoulders slumped for a moment. He then straightened and said, "Captain Janeway, with all due respect, I must protest this decision!"

Janeway looked at him. "Captain Gates, just a moment ago you said you would agree by my decision. Now you are protesting it?"

"To be brutally honest, I never expected you to rule in Jaimie's behalf, considering all the ramifications of this situation. Jaimie being tired is no acceptable reason. How can you possibly rule this way?"

"It wasn't easy, Captain, I assure you. But Jaimie has given her absolute word that she will never use her expertise on this ship. And after knowing her for the last year in various situations, I believe her. Besides that, she can always change her mind and return – you have both said that means could be arranged."

Gates turned and looked at Jaimie. "Jaimie, you don't know what you are doing! Think about it, woman."

Jaimie then moved for the first time in this matter and turning slightly to face Gates, looked up at him. "I fully understand Gates. I know your fear and I understand your anxiety. But I'm tired Gates. I am tired of Starfleet and all the political hand wringing. I'm tired from 52 years of working and the stress of being in such a constant state of tension so as to not make a mistake that will change history, tired of . . ." and her eyes for the first time came to life and exhibited a mischievous twinkle as she continued, "tired of fighting you. I want to retire and get away and what better place than on Voyager? Besides, in our private conversation last night I told you I had brought a monitor chip and you can insert it before you leave and then record and monitor my every movement - and you know that privately I would hate that but I will agree to have it done if that is your desire."

"A monitoring device, Jaimie?" questioned Janeway.

"Yes, Kathryn. It's not quite as big as a thumbnail, but is extremely powerful."

Chakotay, his face showing sudden concern asked, "Will it damage or affect your system in any way?"

"No, Chakotay. It's totally harmless to the host, but allows complete monitoring of everything except thoughts, and thank God for that," she said with a smile.

Then looking back at Gates, "Gates you know me for crying out loud! You know I won't do anything to this ship. If I did it might change everything and I and possibly all my ancestors wouldn't exist. Now if you don't know anything, you know I would never jeopardize that!"

For the first time Gates smiled. "Yes, Jaimie," he said with a trace of compassion and love, "I know you would never jeopardize that." Turning his head he stared out the view port for a few moments, and then turning back looked deep into Jaimie's eyes.

Sighing resignedly, he said "All right, Jaimie, I'll abide with this decision, and yes I do know you, so I wont do anything with the monitor. I'll take it back with me." He suddenly smiled. "But you know there is going to be hell to pay back home when I inform them I not only found you, but allowed you to stay! I will be court-martialed and drummed out of Starfleet and might have to join you," he finished with a loud laugh.

Jaimie chuckled at that. "And you know we would drive Kathryn nuts with our private little war, so I'm sure I can inform you now that your request for political asylum would be denied!" Then she became serious.

"I know you are going to suffer some consequence for this, Gates, and I'm truly sorry for that. I'm sorry it has to be you." She then reached out and placed her hand on his shoulder. "Deeply sorry! I hope you aren't demoted or punished in any way. You're the best Captain they could possible have in TT. Make up any lie you want to about this. Protect yourself you old scalawag," and she suddenly stepped in close and putting both arms around his shoulders, gave him a big hug.

Gates quickly responded with a bear hug of his own. Kathryn, watching all this suddenly realized that these two, for all their battling, deeply cared for each other and she braced herself against the urge to cry. Looking up at Chakotay she found him looking at her with compassion and understanding. They smiled at each other and moved silently to the other side of the room, giving Jaimie and Gates a semblance of privacy.

"I will miss you, you old grump!" Jaimie whispered. "More than you realize!"

Gates, still holding Jaimie tight, nodded, smiled and said "And you know I will miss you, you rascal. It just wont be the same. I'm just sorry it took something like this to make you admit I'm not so bad." Jaimie thumped him on the back but didn't say anything. He then pulled back and looked at her. "Now what the hell am I going to do for a new traveler?"

Jaimie laughed. "Looks like you will have to go to work, instead of sitting around all day on your butt!" Then leaning close, "Think about Jeremiah or Katelyn."

Gates smirked. "I already have."

The two of them then looked around for Kathryn and Chakotay, who were now sitting on the floor with their backs against the wall. "Well look at that, Gates, we've reduced the Captain and First Officer to sitting on the floor."

Gates quickly walked over and helped Janeway to her feet. "My humblest apologies, Captain."

Kathryn smiled and dismissed it with a wave of her hand. "No need, Captain. I've found myself on the floor of this ship many times." Then she laughed. "And not all of them voluntary!" Gates laughed loudly at that as he nodded his head in understanding.

"Well," said Gates, "I guess I better get ready to return, and . . ." he stopped, turned and looked at Jaimie before continuing with, "decide what story I'm going to tell the brass when I get back."

"I'll help you with that," Jaimie said. "I have an idea," she added in a sly tone.

Gates looked at Janeway and Chakotay and rolled his eyes. "Figures," he muttered. Both Kathryn and Chakotay couldn't help but break out into big smiles.

Then Gates and Jaimie looked at one another, nodded, simultaneously punched their belts and disappeared, reappearing moments later in Gates' ship. They set about working the control panels. Jaimie, working quickly on one panel finally sat back. "There, I've set the controls to capture to my ship. You'll fly as one and there shouldn't be any problem, even in the rift."

Gates looked at the panel and then at Jaimie. "I've never seen that configuration before."

"You've been away from flying too long, Gates. There's still a lot I could teach you."

"No doubt, Jaimie, no doubt." Then looking at her he asked in a somber tone, "Are you really sure about this, Jaimie?"

She nodded without hesitation. "Really sure. But drop in now and then." She smiled. "I know your curiosity will get the best of you. Besides, after Jeremiah teaches you to use my monitoring equipment you can bring reports about me back to them." Then her eyes showed sadness. "I will miss my family, Gates, but at the same time I know they will understand," and she looked away, becoming distant. Suddenly she snapped out of her reverie, and stood. "We better get over to my ship and I'll explain a few things as well as telling you my idea on what you can tell the brass when you return without me."

"I'm really curious what your devious mind has cooked up," he said as they disappeared.

Meanwhile Chakotay had returned to the Bridge while Kathryn remained in the Ready Room going over some of the latest reports. Giving an exasperated sigh she leaned back as she placed the Padd on the desk. She couldn't concentrate for thinking about Jaimie. What was she going to do about that? Jaimie couldn't remain cloaked forever, and her presence on the ship would then have to be explained.

Rising she walked over to the replicator and got some coffee, then moved to her couch. As she drank it, her mind kept mulling the situation. Then she sighed, feeling Jaimie probably had the answers already figured out. Kathryn smiled at that as Jaimie always seemed ready with answers - her mind worked faster than today's computers!

Kathryn suddenly moaned and rubbed her forehead as another problem entered her mind. Once uncloaked, what kind of job could she have Jaimie do that wouldn't bring her advanced knowledge into play? Shaking her head she knew this would require discussion with Chakotay as well as Jaimie and until that time she better get back to those reports. She rose and started for her desk, but just then Jaimie and Gates materialized in the middle of the room.

Startled she laughed. "You know with our transporter system we at least sense when someone is coming."

Gates smiled and apologized as he moved toward her. "Well, Captain Janeway, I guess I am about ready to return. Jaimie and I have worked everything out – including my cover story," he said with a laugh. "I must say I have really enjoyed being on Voyager and can fully understand Jaimie's love for this ship and it's Captain and First Officer. Thank you for your hospitality and - don't let Jaimie get you down!"

Kathryn laughed. "Oh we butted heads the first time we ever met, but somehow we managed to understand each other and now we get along just fine. I must say, however," she said as she looked at Jaimie, "Having her here on this ship is really going to be interesting."

Jaimie smiled. "I wont make you regret this decision, Kathryn, but we do have to talk about my doing something on this ship, even if it's hauling freight in the Cargo Bay. I just can't sit around and do nothing!"

At that Gates groaned. "Please Captain, just don't let Jaimie talk you into something you don't want her involved in. She can be very persuasive, so stand your ground."

"Gates I can't believe you said that!" exclaimed Jaimie. "Kathryn is even more stubborn in person than her logs indicated. She doesn't give an inch!"

Kathryn reacted in mock horror. "Stubborn? Me?" Then she winked at Gates as she said, "We didn't become Captain without having a stubborn streak, right Captain Gates?"

"You got that right!" he laughed. "Well I really must be going, but I would like to bid goodbye to Commander Chakotay if I might."

"Of course. He's on the Bridge," and she turned and headed for the door.

Chakotay stood upon hearing the Ready Room doors open. "Captain Gates - ready to leave?"

"All ready Commander. Just wanted to thank you for your hospitality last night."

As they shook hands Chakotay smiled and said, "I wish you luck in finding your lost pilot."

"Oh I'll find her alright. She's one of our best, but gets a whim now and then to just take off and explore the Galaxy." As he was stating this Chakotay felt pressure on his arm and knew Jaimie was there, probably wanting to explode at Gates' statement.

Chakotay couldn't help himself as he smiled and looked down at Paris, whom he found had a smile on his face too.

"I'm sure all pilots have this urge, Captain. I think we have one ourselves!"

Gates chuckled at that, then looking around the Bridge saw that everyone was looking at him. Good thing I'm not wearing my Starfleet uniform. Wonder what they would think if they knew I was from 500 years in the future he mused to himself. Turning back to Janeway and Chakotay, he smiled, nodded and said, "Good health to you all" and disappeared.

Kathryn looked at Chakotay with a knowing half-smile and as she clapped him on the shoulder and they headed for their seats said, "For some reason Commander, I really don't envy him. If he doesn't find that pilot, his superiors will be most unhappy with him." Chakotay just nodded and the cloaked Jaimie punched her belt to return to her quarters.

* * *

A week had gone by since Jaimie had been granted political asylum, but she still spent time in her quarters or cloaked when she went out. She was grateful she had been able to convince Gates to let her keep the belt, with the promise not to use it to any advantage during situations that may arise. As to what job she would do, Kathryn had mentioned once that as she was expert in every possible job it only made her decision that more difficult. Finally Kathryn had informed Jaimie she had decided to wait until they came to the next planet. At that point they would work out a story to bring her on board and then she would not have to cloak anymore. After that they would decide on what duties she could perform.

Her door chimed with the pre-arranged signal and she waited for the override to be initiated. Seconds later, Kathryn walked in. "Good morning, Jaimie. How are you?"

"Bored to death, Kathryn. I will be glad to get out of this room and do something."

Kathryn smiled. "Well it won't be long now. We just entered orbit above Cayna. B'Elanna will be beaming down soon to barter for materials for repair of the ship and Neelix and Tuvok will be checking out supplies."

"Chakotay and you?"

"The second shift. Chakotay will go down and make the obligatory meeting with their Minister. Have you been to this planet before, Jaimie?"

"Briefly several years ago." Then she smiled a mischievous smile. "But I did check it out before I left home and they are a peaceful race. You should encounter no problems here and they have the raw materials B'Elanna will need for repairs."

Kathryn nodded. "I rather suspected you might have checked this out. Well, I will contact you in a few minutes when Chakotay is ready to beam down," and she turned and left.

Jaimie stared at the door for a few seconds and frowned. The planet after Cayna was Zenania and was not only hostile but also an aggressive war-seeking race. Voyager had to bypass that planet, so how she could get Voyager to stock up on extra supplies without breaking her promise? Well she would think of something.

Ten minutes later she heard a tapping on her door followed by a quiet "Jaimie?" Recognizing Chakotay's voice she cloaked, opened the door and quickly stepped out into the corridor, squeezing his arm to let him know she was there.

"Ready for some sunshine and fresh air?" he asked. Receiving a punch on his arm made Chakotay smile and they headed for the transporter room.

Chakotay was met by the Imperial Magistrate Kalishna at the beam down point, so while Chakotay was handling that affair Jaimie walked on down the avenue. Seeing a public place she entered, found a small open room and uncloaked. Leaving the building she was now seen wearing her usual traveling garb, which although different from the native dress, did not stand out in such a way as to merit attention as there were other aliens there. Still she needed to obtain a change. Seeing a Street Vendor pushing a cart of various wares, she asked where she might obtain new clothing and headed in that direction.

Later, dressed in native garb she strolled happily around the city. She wasn't too worried about being recognized by any of the crew as the only place they could have seen her was riding that bucking horse and flying through the air. Spotting B'Elanna she wandered over to observe her selections and subsequent bartering with the vendor. Neither seemed to be getting anywhere, so Jaimie, using her bartering skills, stepped in and managed a sale, much to B'Elanna's delight.

"Thank you for your assistance, ma'am," said B'Elanna. "You actually got me something I needed quite badly and thought I was going to have to pay separately for."

Jaimie placed her palms together at her chin, smiled and nodded. "These vendors do like to take advantage of ships that pass through, and then brag about it for months after. If you need any other assistance I will be around."

B'Elanna smiled and said, "Actually this about wraps it up."

Jaimie nodded, and as B'Elanna turned and started walking away, Jaimie whispered to the vendor. His expression brightened and he quickly walked after B'Elanna. "Lady, are you aware the next planet you pass is a war faring planet? Perhaps you should stock up on some of your more vital needs."

B'Elanna frowned. "No I was not aware of that. Thank you, I will look around a little more." She then looked for the stranger, but she was nowhere to be seen.

A block away Jaimie was smiling. Well that had been easy and she hadn't broken her promise, either. All she had done was ask the vendor to inform the lady about the next planet, and the vendor in his greed had accomplished the rest.

Soon she encountered Neelix who was bustling about in a high energetic pace. Looking at what he was getting Jaimie nodded in agreement, but stopped at one stall, took an object that looked like a pear, bit into it and then praised its taste while walking by Neelix. Nodding at him she said, "Good day to you sir. This is my favorite fruit. I never pass by this stand without getting at least one. I say would you like a slice?"

Neelix bobbed his head as he said he had no idea what that fruit was. She picked up the vendor's knife, sliced off a section of the fruit, and after handing it to Neelix, went on her way. Glancing back she noted with satisfaction he was now bartering with the vendor.

Two down, one to go, Jaime noted with smug satisfaction. Now . . . where was Tuvok? Looking around she easily spotted him and wandered in that direction. He was busy selecting various containers of grains. As he was about to select another container Jaimie coughed loudly, causing Tuvok to look up.

"Excuse me sir, but I stood too near that container, and had a reaction. It offends my lungs," then she looked at the container again and frowned deeply, muttering to the vendor she didn't know how he could possibly sell that vile stuff.

The vendor immediately tried to get her to move on, but she only moved a few feet. Intrigued, Tuvok kept looking at her and then subtly pointed at a different container. Again Jaimie had a coughing fit, walked by a different container and lightly drug her hand on the lid, then moved on. Tuvok then bartered for several of those containers all the while watching where this person went. She had warned him against something in those particular containers and he wanted to thank her for it.

Jaimie smiled broadly. This was fun! Spotting Chakotay she headed in his direction. He was standing apart from anyone else, and suddenly when a sparkling image began to appear she understood why. Kathryn was beaming down. The two then engaged in conversation with Imperial Magistrate Kalishna. Jaimie stood silently to one side watching, when she suddenly sensed a nearby presence. Startled she automatically raised her hands to defend herself, when she saw it was Tuvok.

"I'm sorry, I didn't mean to startle you, but I called after you a few moments ago, but you did not respond. I simply wanted to thank you for your assistance back there."

Jaimie, as she had done with B'Elanna, placed her hands together and bowed her head. "I'm just grateful you have telepathic abilities and sensed what I was trying to tell you, sir."

"What was in those containers?" asked Tuvok.

"Unfit grain is all I will tell you. That particular merchant prays on visitors and they do not find out until they are on their way."

"Well, thank you again. I appreciate your help." He then frowned. "You look familiar. Have we met before?"

"I doubt it sir, but I am a trader and travel to other planets. However at the last one I lost my ship and managed a ride with a passing ship to this place. Perhaps at one of your previous stops you caught a fleeting glance of me?"

"Perhaps," said Tuvok

Jaimie then looked over at Kathryn and Chakotay and asked, "Are they your leaders?"

"Yes. They are Captain Janeway and Commander Chakotay."

"Well, then I think I will introduce myself," and Jaimie quickly walked towards them, leaving Tuvok with a frown, a raised eyebrow, and a muttered "Interesting."

As Jaimie neared Kathryn and Chakotay they finished their conversation with Imperial Magistrate Kalishna and started to stroll up the avenue. Jaimie hurried up beside them, did the hands together and nod business and started walking with them.

After noting her native dress, Kathryn got an amused grin on her face. "Enjoying your outing, Jaimie?"

"I'm having fun, Kathryn!"

"I noticed you talking with B'Elanna, Neelix and Tuvok," said Chakotay. "Did you behave yourself?"

"You old eagle eye! Of course I behaved myself. But I did give a few suggestions on purchases, and . . ." looking at Kathryn added, "That didn't break my promise. They were all on the right track."

Kathryn frowned at first hearing this, then said, "You're right, suggestions on food isn't technology. Having been here before, I hope you help Neelix in preparing some of these foodstuffs."

This time Jaimie frowned. "To put it in the EMH's vernacular, I'm a pilot, not a cook, Kathryn!"

Chakotay and Kathryn couldn't help but laugh as they continued their stroll.

* * *

Voyager had now been underway for thirty minutes. Jaimie had come aboard in her native dress, with the explanation being she was a stranded trader. Chakotay announced he would fix her up with quarters, which, of course, was where she had been all along. As soon as she entered her quarters she pulled off the native attire, revealing her western traveling outfit, then muttered Kathryn would frown when she saw that. However, her explanation would be that as a trader she had been on the Planet Dayan and acquired the outfit there. Then she grinned. That all tied in with her story to Tuvok, so maybe he wouldn't frown so much.

Her door chimed and she cheerfully called out, "Enter!"

Kathryn and Chakotay walked in and as Jaimie had predicted, Kathryn frowned.

"Now hold on there, pardner," she drawled. "As a trader I have been on the Planet Dayan and acquired this garb there."

"Gotcha there, Kathryn" said Chakotay with a laugh.

"And that's where you rode that wild bronco, if I recall," said Kathryn still chuckling.

"Don't remind me of that! I still hurt just thinking about it," said Jaimie.

"What ever happened to Q, Jaimie?" asked Chakotay. "It's been quite awhile since we've seen her."

Jaimie smiled as she thought of how Q had helped them get her to her ship when she had been critically injured that time. 'Oops' was still working! "I think she's in the Gamma Quadrant, probably giving someone a bad time."

The three of them walked into the Mess Hall and Neelix bounded up to them with his usual cheery greeting. Then looking at Jaimie, he said, "And I want to thank you for the suggestion on the Katra fruit today. By the way what is your name?"

Kathryn and Chakotay froze. They hadn't talked about that, but Jaimie just smiled, placed her palms together and nodded her head . . . she really must find a way to stop doing that --"My name is Jaimie."

"Ah simple! I can pronounce Jaimie quite easily. To tell you the truth I was worried it would be an unpronounceable name and I would embarrass Captain Janeway with my efforts."

Jaimie patted the Talaxian on the shoulder. "Exactly why I changed it to Jaimie many years ago. I couldn't pronounce my own name!" she said with a laugh.

The three of them then filled their trays and moved towards a lone table across the room. Jaimie noted glances her way and simply smiled, nodded and said hello at each table they walked by. "Might as well be friendly right away, guys."

Chakotay grinned. "As if you could be anything else, Jaimie."

They engaged in small talk while eating and Jaimie continued to smile, nod and say hello to any passing crewmember. As they started to leave, Tom Paris and Harry Kim walked in. Seeing the three leaving, they intercepted their path and introduced themselves to Jaimie. Kathryn and Chakotay excused themselves and left, so Jaimie, without being asked, sat down with Tom and Harry.

Soon B'Elanna walked in and asked if they had eaten yet. Tom replied they hadn't and were just talking to Jaimie. Jaimie and B'Elanna exchanged smiles and then Jaimie stood up.

"Well I think I will talk to your Vulcan . . . it's Tuvok isn't it?"

"Yes," replied Tom, "but he doesn't . . ." but Jaimie had already started walking towards Tuvok's table. ". . . Like to be bothered," Tom finished. "Well I tried to warn her. Let's eat."

Jaimie bustled up to Tuvok's table. "Ah, Mr. Tuvok, we meet again. My name is Jaimie. May I sit down?" and without waiting for a response proceeded to pull out a chair and sit.

Tuvok frowned, his fork halfway to his mouth. "A pleasure . . . Jaimie," he said as he lowered the fork to his plate.

"You are the Security Officer, am I correct?"

Tuvok nodded. "Yes, that is correct."

"Quite a responsibility in a strange quadrant if you ask me," said Jaimie with a smile.

"Suffice it to say, it has been a challenge at times," he replied.

"Obviously you have performed your duties well thus far, judging from the number of crew . . ."

"I have done my best," he interrupted. "Now if you will excuse me, I have some duties to attend." He stood and nodded at Jaime.

Just then Seven of Nine walked up and Jaimie stiffened noticeably. Tuvok, ever alert, noticed the full-blown hate appear in Jaimie's eyes and stepping into Jaimie's line of vision asked, "Do you wish something, Seven?"

Seven's vision of Jaimie cut off, she looked at Tuvok. "I need your assistance in a private matter."

Tuvok moved to leave and Seven quickly followed, but not before taking another glance at Jaimie.

"That woman hates me. I remember seeing her on Dayan and received the same look."

"You are Borg, Seven. That produces hate even for those who do not know you personally. Now what is your need," he asked as they went out the door.

Meanwhile Jaimie fought to subdue the rage boiling in her. She had forgotten about Seven, being in her room so much, but she was going to have to deal with it as they likely would have much more contact in the future.

* * *

Two weeks went by and Jaimie, not being given any particular assignment as yet, wandered from department to department. This day she was in Engineering assisting B'Elanna on some computation to improve the Impulse function. It had sort of "stuttered" in B'Elanna's words.

B'Elanna worked on the console while Jaime leaned on her elbows watching. Finally Jaimie pointed her finger and asked "What would happen if you press that doohickey and join it with this thingamabob."

"Don't touch those!" exclaimed B'Elanna looking at where she was pointing. "And that wouldn't work anyway."

Just then Jaimie's Com badge chirped. "Jaimie here," she said.

"Jaimie, this is Captain Janeway. Could you please come to the Bridge?"

"On my way," and with a wave at B'Elanna she left.

B'Elanna smiled and started to turn from the console, hesitated and stared down at it. "I'll be damned," she said softly.

Jaimie strode briskly onto the Bridge moments later. Janeway was standing looking at the View Screen and turned to face Jaimie. Indicating the screen she asked, "Do you notice anything peculiar about this area of space, Jaimie?"

"Looks black to me," she said in half jest. "Other than that I don't see anything. But why ask me, I'm only a Trader," she said with a twinkle in her eyes that only Janeway could see.

"Well, as a Trader moving from place to place," said Kathryn ignoring Jaimie's jibe, "You are familiar with space anomalies. Again, is there anything different here?"

Jaimie stared at Kathryn. Was this a test to check out her promise or did she really want the question answered? She looked again at the view screen, then turned and looked around the Bridge. Everyone was looking at her expectantly.

"What is this? Why are you all looking at me?" She then turned to Kathryn. "Ka . . . I'm not really sure what it is you want from me." Then looking back at the view screen, Jaimie shrugged her shoulders. "Well, it just looks black . . . almost a fake black, like it's blocking your view of something."

"Exactly," said Janeway. "Harry's sensors show a planet yet our view screen shows nothing. While on Cayna did you hear anything about this section of space?"

By now Jaimie was getting irritated at Janeway's persistence to get an answer from her. "No, but if you are worried about it, then go around - ignore it!" she said sharply.

Suddenly two ships came flying out of the blackness at high warp and heading directly for Voyager! Before Tuvok could give any warning or get the shields up they were upon Voyager and firing Phasers. Then one fired a torpedo and the direct hit sent everyone on the Bridge flying. Janeway and Harry were both knocked unconscious and Tuvok suffered a severe cut on the side of his face, but managed to get back to his panel and initiate the shields as well as Red Alert. Chakotay, who had been sitting when the attack commenced and was thus able to maintain his position, stood and looked around. Seeing Kathryn on the deck he started for her, while at the same time yelling "Tom get Voyager out of here, and Jaimie take OPS!"

"Right!" responded Jaimie immediately and ran toward Harry's station. Reaching out for the railing she started to vault over it when another hit made Voyager shudder and lurch, causing Jaimie to be thrown off balance just enough that her back foot caught on the railing as she sailed over. Landing awkwardly she stumbled two steps before regaining her balance. Looking back at the railing she muttered, "Blast! I used to leap that in a single bound!" then raced behind Harry's console. Glancing down she noted Harry was bleeding from the ears and knew immediately he had suffered a head injury.

"Harry's hurt bad, Chakotay . . . head injury." Looking up, her quick glance took in the entire scene. "Tom's also down - you better take Helm!"

Chakotay had by then checked Kathryn and realizing she was just unconscious, raced over to the Helm.

After initiating an evasive maneuver he looked down at Tom who was now starting to sit up. "Tom, get Harry to Sick Bay with a beam out and then get back here!"

Seconds after they had beamed off the Bridge, Kathryn came to and started to stand when another direct hit sent her flying off balance. This time she yelled out in pain and Chakotay in one quick glance could tell that this time she was seriously injured. Glancing at the view screen and not seeing any enemy ships, he took one step to Kathryn's side, when Jaimie yelled that Tuvok was now unconscious.

Quickly Chakotay summed up the situation and remembering Jaimie was a pilot, yelled out, "Jaimie, take the Helm, I'll take Tuvok's position. Maneuver this ship so I can get a shot off at those bastards!"

Jaimie ran out from OPS and this time easily vaulted the railing, landing beside Chakotay's chair and in continuous motion of one more jump was at the Helm.

Glancing up at the screen her eyes widened. "Oh, oh." One of the largest Battle Cruisers she had ever seen was heading straight for Voyager. She looked back at Chakotay but instantly decided that any maneuver was up to her. Her eyes hardened, and her fingers started flying over the controls. She stopped the Beta maneuver Chakotay had initiated and headed straight for the Cruiser!

Chakotay looked up and his eyes widened in horror. Both ships were on a collision course. "Jaime, what the hell are you doing?" he yelled.

"A game of "Chicken" Chakotay," she responded. He'll have to turn or be rammed."

"But, he's bigger than us!"

Jaimie ignored him and watched the Cruiser intently as Chakotay moved up beside her. "Whoops," she muttered, "He doesn't know how to play Chicken! Grab Kathryn and hold on Chakotay!" she yelled.

Chakotay turned back to Kathryn, knelt down and put one arm around her waist, while grabbing the leg of her chair with his other.

"Here we go!" yelled Jaimie, who had waited until the last possible moment to initiate her maneuver. Voyager suddenly went into a dive - straight down! Even while in this position Jaimie's hands started punching at the controls faster than a jackhammer. Voyager started to pull out of the dive, moving straight up while at the same time executing a roll and turning back. This brought Voyager right up behind the Cruiser.

"Yow hoo - we're right in her exhaust now! One Photon torpedo in her rear end and that's all she wrote for that sucker!"

"No, you'll kill us, too!" yelled out Chakotay.

Jaimie ignored him. "Torpedo away . . . hang on!" Again Voyager went into a steep dive as Jaimie's hands flew over the controls, initiating commands faster than Chakotay had ever seen before. Voyager continued its dive for three full seconds, and then made a groaning turn to Port just as the Cruiser exploded in a trillion pieces above them.

Smiling at the success, Jaimie slowly corrected the course heading by bringing Voyager about, then put it at Warp 9 and as the ship sped away, she looked around. Chakotay was how helping a half conscious Kathryn to her chair and Tuvok, now conscious was struggling to right himself at his station.

Immediately the air was filled with sounds, first with groans, then calls from all over the ship.

"Engineering here, can someone tell me just what the hell happened?" yelled B'Elanna

"This is Sick Bay. I don't know what idiot was driving this ship, but I have patients all over the floor, and not because I have too many . . . although I see that's about to change!"

Calls kept coming in reporting injuries, and most starting with "What the hell."

Then it was Janeway's turn as she had finally shaken the cobwebs. "What the hell happened?"

Chakotay stood and looked at Jaimie. "It seems our friend Jaimie decided to play Chicken with a Cruiser and when he didn't want to play that game she put us all in jeopardy with her maneuvers."

"Maneuvers," came Tuvok's voice, "Which should have destroyed this ship all by themselves."

"Oh come one, guys," said Jaimie defensively. "We made it okay and I'm willing to bet we didn't even pop one rivet!"

"Nevertheless," said Tuvok. "This ship should never have withstood the stress you, a trader, put us through," he said with emphasis on the word Trader.

Janeway looked at Chakotay first, then around the Bridge. Other than being in disarray and missing Tom and Harry, it seemed functional. The Bridge crew, although looking shaken, were now all at their posts.

"Chakotay, Tuvok, start checking out all the systems. I'm going to Sick Bay and have my shoulder repaired. In the meantime," and she turned and glared at Jaimie, "When we are safely out of this space, and I know you know this space, then turn the Helm over to Chakotay and confine yourself to quarters!" With that she turned and stalked off the Bridge.

Jaimie glanced at Chakotay and she could see him clench and unclench his fists at his side, plus a combination of hurt and anger in his eyes as he stood looking at her. Jaimie's heart skipped a beat. She had let him down!

* * *

After helping the Doctor to get everybody back on the beds and start attending to the injured, Tom walked over to Harry, still unconscious but now restrained on the Bio Bed. The Doctor had just injected a Hypo spray.

"How is he, Doc?"

"Not good, Mr. Paris. He has suffered severe brain damage. I doubt the exercise this ship just went through helped."

Just then Captain Janeway came in holding her shoulder, but before letting the Doctor treat her she checked on Harry.

"The Doc says Harry has suffered severe brain damage, Captain," said Tom.

"What's the prognosis, Doctor?" asked Janeway even as the Doctor was examining her.

"Not good, I'm afraid. The brain stem has been damaged." Then looking up at Captain Janeway he said softly, "I'm afraid Mr. Kim will never be the same."

"What do you mean by that, Doc?" asked Tom sharply.

"Simply stated and as near as I can tell at this moment, Mr. Kim is going to have trouble walking and using his hands. His motor skills and possibly even his speech will be affected."

Janeway looked down on Ensign Kim and her heart pounded. "There isn't anything you can do to repair that damage, Doctor?"

"I'm afraid not, Captain. Now, as he is resting let me repair that shoulder. You have torn some muscles and tendons."

While the Doctor fixed her shoulder Janeway sat and watched Tom stand forlornly by Harry's bed. Tom must be devastated, they are best friends, she thought. She shook her head. First Jaimie pulls her flying stunt, now this. What else can go wrong?

* * *

Jaimie prowled her quarters like a caged animal. It had been almost 8 hours since the incident and not one word or visitor had been in contact with her. She gave a big sigh and let herself drop down on the couch.

The look in Chakotay's eyes haunted her every thought. Why had she done that maneuver? In essence she had broken her promise and that hurt her as much as what she saw in Chakotay's eyes. She sighed again. Why, why she kept asking herself as she rubbed her forehead. Instinct . . . that's all it was, pure reaction and instinct! She had just reacted to the situation. Well if she couldn't control that she shouldn't be on Voyager, so she might as well get ready to contact Gates and go back. She searched her memory for this moment as written in Kathryn's logs and shook her head. They had survived it before, so why did she do it! Why did Kathryn have to call her to the Bridge anyway! She emitted a loud groan that was half pain and half anger.

Unexpectedly her door chimed. Feeling stubborn, she decided not to respond, but instead leaned back, put her feet up on the coffee table, let her head lay back on the sofa, and closed her eyes.

She heard the door open and although the deck was carpeted, heard and then sensed someone moving to where she was sitting. There were two of them! Slowly she opened one eye and peered up to see Kathryn and Tuvok. Lifting her feet off the table she sat up and indicated for them to sit down. Kathryn sat, but maintained a stiff 'official' posture.

"Jaimie," she began in a voice that betrayed her emotion, "Tuvok and I are here to get your side of the story. I want you to tell me everything, your every thought and action."

Jaimie rubbed her forehead with both hands and gave a long sigh. Then she began in meticulous manner to describe everything that had happened. Kathryn listened intently while Tuvok jotted notes in his Padd. When Jaimie finished she leaned back and looked at Kathryn with eyes filled with remorse. "That's it. There isn't anything else I can tell you. I'll get off at the next planet. It will be better that way."

Kathryn's eyes bore deep into Jaimie's for a moment then she looked up at Tuvok. "That will be all, Tuvok." He nodded and left.

Jaimie looked at Kathryn unsure whether to say anything more or just wait. She waited.

Finally Kathryn cleared her throat. "Jaimie this is a very difficult situation. First of all, you obviously saved Voyager from destruction, while at the same time almost destroying the ship with your maneuvers. You promised you wouldn't use your advanced technology and . . ." she stopped as Jaimie abruptly held up her hand.

"But I didn't use any technology, Kathryn," she said in a voice so soft Kathryn had to lean forward to hear. "However, I did use my knowledge of Voyager, by continually shifting the dampening fields to the stress points in every twist and turn, thus prohibiting any breach in the hull. Something Tom could learn with very little teaching, by the way, but the problem there is you have to initiate these changes faster than Tom is capable of. The ship's computer is so slow I had to repeat several commands . . ."

Kathryn's eyes widened as she interrupted Jaimie. "That's all you did - shift the dampening fields?"

"Yes, but you have to know what points experience stress at virtually every nanosecond and inch of the maneuver. That's where my studying Voyager worked. I know every millimeter of this ship, Kathryn." Jaimie then leaned back and rubbed her neck. Glancing at Kathryn she said, "You have B'Elanna and Tuvok study the ship's movements from a strain standpoint and sensor readouts will show the fields shifting all the way through."

Kathryn nodded. "I will have them initiate that study." She looked away for a moment then added, "So - you used our technology and your knowledge of this ship." As this was more a statement than a question Jaimie did not respond.

Silence. A very awkward silence then permeated the air. Jaimie looked at Kathryn and in her intuitive way knew what was bothering her. Leaning forward and placing a hand on her shoulder, she said, "But that's not the entire problem is it, Kathryn?"

Kathryn sighed, shook her head and stood. "No it's not, Jaimie. Tuvok and Tom have already questioned how you could possible fly this ship the way you did."

"The answer is simple, Kathryn. Tell them the truth."

"The truth! You mean tell them you are from the 29th Century? That's insane!"

"Not really. There shouldn't be any problem with that. It would certainly explain things. The only problem would be with me. - the questions the crew would start asking me to be exact – and whether I could restrain myself from giving answers or information I shouldn't." She then laughed for the first time that day. "You remember how I slipped you and Chakotay information when we first met!"

Kathryn stared at her. Of course, the answer was actually as simple as that! Her crew could accept Jaimie being from the 29th Century, especially now, but did she have the courage to initiate this information and could Jaimie resist divulging anything critical to their survival, especially if a death was imminent?

"I have to ask Jaimie and I need the truth. What would have happened if you hadn't been flying the ship, and don't you dare try to tell me you can't say anything!"

Jaimie groaned inwardly. Well she had to answer. She had already violated the records for this day with her action. "As I remember, Chakotay went through continuous various maneuvers and managed to escape after a period of time because the Cruiser was so big and slow. But Voyager sustained a tremendous amount of damage and injuries, but no deaths - and that's the critical factor in this situation, Kathryn - no deaths, so nothing in the timeline was changed."

Janeway nodded. "Just more damage to the ship. Then why didn't you leave Chakotay at the Helm?"

"Because he ordered me to the Helm. He reacted knowing I was on the Bridge and he was busy with you, Harry and Tuvok, as well as trying to drive the ship, so when he ordered me to be the pilot I reacted to his orders." Jaimie then laughed out loud, causing Kathryn to frown. "Imagine me following orders!" Kathryn did not even smile. Her mind was working furiously.

"One other thing, Jaimie. How did I enter all this on the Logs?"

Jaimie wagged a finger at Kathryn. "Oh no you don't. Naughty! Naughty! Trying to get answers when you yourself said I couldn't be involved."

"But you are involved by flying the ship today!"

"I realize that, but I can't tell you what to put in your report. Besides, you're smart, you'll figure out what to say."

Kathryn stood and reminded Jaime she was still confined to quarters until they finished their investigation and left. After arriving on the Bridge she ordered Tuvok and Chakotay to check sensor readings as to what was happening to Voyager during the entire maneuver. A day later both men, along with B'Elanna, reported their findings to Janeway.

"It appears, Captain, that throughout the maneuver, Jaimie was somehow initiating dampening fields to stress points in the hull," said Tuvok. Kathryn nodded and silently acknowledged to herself this was exactly what Jaimie had told her.

"The puzzling thing," continued Tuvok, "Is that requires tremendous hand speed and knowledge of a ship - in this particular instance Voyager – and the various stress points."

"Knowledge, I find it hard to believe, this Trader would possess," added B'Elanna. "Somehow I think Jaimie is more than a Trader. Just before you called her to the Bridge that day, I was trying to improve the performance of the Impulse engines and Jaimie, watching from the side, suddenly pointed and asked about combining - as she phrased it - this 'doohickey' with that 'thingamabob'. After she left and I looked at it I suddenly realized that was the answer to my problem . . . an option I hadn't and wouldn't even have considered before!"

Kathryn looked at Chakotay. "I think it's time for the Senior Staff to have a meeting."

Chakotay, puzzled and yet sensing what she was going to do, nodded and immediately tapped his Com Badge. "All Senior Staff report to the Conference Room immediately."

Ten minutes later all were present, including Seven, and Neelix, who bustled in complaining his Soufflé was now ruined. Even Guinan, who was still on the ship, appeared.

Janeway sat in her customary place watching them all get settled. A flag sat on the table before her, folded in the manner flags are folded at memorial services.

She stood and looked each person in the eye before beginning. "The time has come to tell you of certain events that have been happening for over the past year or more." She stopped and again glanced around the room. All were eyeing her intently, their interest obviously piqued by not only that statement, but the flag as well.

Over the next hour she patiently described how she and Chakotay had been saved from death by the sudden appearance of a mysterious Ensign and how this person was responsible for Guinan's appearance. At this point Kathryn knew she could no longer refer to Jaimie as this 'mysterious person' and confessed her name was Jaimie and that she was actually from the 29th Century.

The crew was startled, but B'Elanna slapped her hand on the table and exclaimed, "I knew it! I knew there was something different about her."

Kathryn smiled then continued, explaining their trip to the 29th Century when Kobe, a trainee of Jaimie's had been killed thinking he was protecting Chakotay, and that the flag on the table was presented to her after his ceremony. Next she explained how Jaimie had suddenly turned up on Voyager almost two months ago and requested political asylum, and that the Captain Gates who had appeared one day was her superior officer. At Cayna Kathryn had Jaimie visibly come on board posing as a trader.

Occasionally during this long explanation the group had buzzed with excitement at some news, especially when Janeway had told them Jaimie had taken them to the 29th Century. Kathryn had stopped all questions quickly during these interruptions and continued with her explanation.

When she had finished, Tuvok said, "This explains several questions that arose in my mind, Captain, as well as Jaimie's skill at handling this ship two days ago. But is she not flirting with starting a Paradox here?"

"Apparently not, as everything that has happened has apparently happened exactly the way it should, according to Voyager's logs - Chakotay's and my travel to the 29th Century the exception. I will add, however, that Voyager is a required study at Starfleet Academy."

The babble of words at that news was complete chaos, but Kathryn just smiled. "Jaimie let that slip once, but has since refused to say why, and certainly not 'when' or even 'if', we get home."

"We must get home, Captain," Tom enthused. "Required study! Wow, I wonder what we do or maybe we invent something!"

"Belay all those thoughts and opinions, all of you!" Janeway said sharply, and the room became quiet immediately.

"At this point I think the appearance of Jaimie before this group is necessary," said Janeway and she proceeded to sit down and not say a word. The group looked expectantly, waiting for her to summon Jaimie to the room.

Kathryn smiled and after a few more seconds delay said, "Jaimie, I know you are in here. Show yourself."

At that Jaimie appeared leaning against the wall behind Janeway. Everyone stared, wondering how she had accomplished that feat. Jaimie pushed away from the wall and walked up beside Kathryn, reached down and gently caressed the flag, and after a second looked up and smiled.

"Hi, I'm Jaimie . . . but then you already knew that." Then holding both hands up in the air, palms forward, continued, "And don't even try to ask me anything about my Century," and after a sly look at Kathryn and Chakotay she continued, "I'm forbidden from saying anything."

She smiled and received smiles in return. "However, now that my presence is known by this group, and at the risk of rushing this subject, I would like to request a position to 'earn my keep,' and as I know you don't like my piloting skills . . ." and everyone in the room laughed at that, "I would like to work in Engineering with B'Elanna, with my absolute word I will not doohickey or thingamabob anything!"

"I wouldn't mind a doohickey or two," said B'Elanna with a big smile.

"Well," said Janeway standing, "We will discuss your request tomorrow, Jaimie. For now, it's been a long day and very interesting last two days, let alone the last two months, so I think we are all ready for a good night's sleep. Remember everyone - what was discussed and revealed here in this room stays here! Dismissed."

* * *

The next day, although Kathryn had lifted her restriction to quarters, Jaimie elected to stay in her room and let the excitement of her situation die down, but eventually her stomach changed that decision as it started to rumble incessantly, so she headed for the Mess Hall.

Walking in she was gratified to find only a couple of crewmembers at different tables. "Hi Neelix," she said walking up to the counter.

Neelix turned and almost exploded with excitement. "Jaimie! What a pleasant surprise, especially after yesterday's surprise announcement," he said lowering his voice.

"Thanks. What's good and don't try to give me that Leola Root stuff. Can't stand it."

Neelix looked momentarily crestfallen. "I'm sorry to hear that, but I'm sure I can fix up something else."

"I'd appreciate it and probably everyone else on the crew would too," she added.

"Really? I thought most liked it."

"Not really. They just like you too much and don't want to hurt your feelings. How about a good old American Beef Stew?"

"Well, I'll have to look that up in the database. In the meantime what about some Chili?"

"Sounds okay, as long as you don't double up on the Jalapeno peppers," said Jaimie with a smile.

"Indeed! I learned my lesson on that. All right - one bowl of chili coming right up."

Shortly Jaimie was sitting quietly in a corner by a view port and slowly eating her chili. Suddenly she heard, "May I join you, Jaimie?"

Looking up she saw it was Tom Paris. She nodded her head and said, "Sure, I'm sure there's an empty chair somewhere in this room."

Tom laughed and sat down. "So - 29th Century. Well, I'm not going to ask any questions even though you know I'm dying to, but I do have one request. Can you teach me that maneuver that got all this business started?"

Jaimie stopped her spoon halfway to her mouth and looked at Tom. Finally she said, "I don't think that would be wise, Tom. You trying to get me in more trouble?"

"No, no, no. I just think it would be valuable for me as a Pilot to know that maneuver . . . just in case it might be needed sometime."

"You plan on playing Chicken with a Cruiser, huh? Sorry Tom, I really don't think I should. Ask Ka . . . uhm your boss."

Tom smiled and leaning forward whispered, "You know as well as I she wouldn't approve it."

"See! Like I said, you're trying to get me in trouble," Jaimie whispered back.

"Who is getting in trouble?" came another voice. "Knowing Tom it doesn't surprise me," said B'Elanna drawing up a chair and joining them.

Oh great, I sure timed this wrong. They're having a shift change, moaned Jaimie to herself. Harry entered the room and with the assistance of a crewman, slowly walked to their table and joined them as he slowly and awkwardly took a seat.

Small talk followed and Jaimie knew they were searching for ways to talk about her situation without being obvious. Deciding she wouldn't give them the opportunity, she smiled, stood and said, "Thanks for the company, but I need to work on something." Just as she started to leave, Janeway and Chakotay walked in, and spotting the foursome walked over.

"So this is where you are, Jaimie? We called you a while ago to join us for dinner, but I see you have already eaten. Well, join us anyway, we have a lot to talk about," and they headed for a table in the corner.

Jaimie looked at Tom, B'Elanna and Harry and rolled her eyes. "I'm sure you do," she responded and as the three suppressed grins, Jaimie left and quickly caught up with Kathryn and Chakotay, as they were about to sit at the table

"So Jaimie," said Chakotay with a twinkle in his eye, "Were they trying to pump you for information?"

"Not quite," replied Jaimie with a grin. "Just hadn't come up with the right opening yet."

"Trust me, they'll keep trying," said Kathryn. "Did they mention we are having a staff meeting in one hour?"

"Not a word."

"I don't believe it. They actually kept it quiet!" Kathryn said with a smile. "I want to ask you, Jaimie, on your honor, don't eavesdrop on this meeting. We will be discussing your situation and possible duty"

"Kathryn, I'm a crushed pineapple that you don't trust me!" Then she smiled and crossed her heart. "On my honor as a . . . whatever, I promise not to drop in unless you invite me."

"Thank you. I notice you had chili. How was it?"

"Not bad, but anything is better than Neelix's Leola Root, which I told him."

"You didn't! What did he say? asked Chakotay.

"Oh I think he had hurt feelings for a moment, but I told him everyone loved him and were just afraid to tell him and he seemed to accept that."

Kathryn and Chakotay decided they would try the chili, so Jaimie excused herself and left for her room.

* * *

Jaimie had previously browsed the computer database on music and selected a variety of songs. The one she wanted to play now and the one she enjoyed the most was by some group called Starship --that name had intrigued her -- and the song "Nothing's Going To Stop Us Now." She sat down on the couch and stretched her legs while listening. Soon other music played and before she knew it two hours had gone by when her com badge chirped.

"Janeway to Jaimie. Would you please come to the Conference Room?"

"If you insist," said Jaimie as she yawned loudly. She heard stifled laughter in the background and then said, "Oh . . . sorry about that, didn't mean to sound disrespectful. Lost in some music. On my way, Jaimie out."

Deciding she had to behave she elected not to use her belt and a short time later she walked into the Conference Room, knowing these people had, in a sense, decided her fate on Voyager. Kathryn indicated for her to come stand by her side, which Jaimie did.

"Jaimie," Kathryn started. "We have been discussing your expertise and qualifications to work somewhere on Voyager and yet not be tempted to implement your 29th Century skills. It goes without saying you qualify for any position, even," and she paused and gave Jaime an evil grin, "piloting a big ship like Voyager."

Jaimie grinned. "But sitting in that seat gets me in trouble. Besides, it moves soooo slowwww."

"In comparison to your ship or your Century," asked Tom impishly.

"Both!" replied Jaimie.

Kathryn continued, "We also discussed Engineering and your affinity for doodadding." At this everyone in the room laughed. Then Kathryn became serious. "However, we do have one important position to fill. Harry's situation prevents him from returning to duty and although Ensign Park is doing adequately you are better qualified. So until or if Harry is able to return to duty, we have all unanimously agreed to have you be OPS on

Alpha shift.

"In addition, as we can't have a 'civilian' working on the Bridge we discussed a rank. It's obvious your rank of Lieutenant in the 29th Century is probably the equivalent of at least an Admiral in the 24th, and I refuse to have you outrank me," she added with a smile, "so I am giving you a field commission of Lieutenant."

Jaimie looked around the room and nodded. Momentarily she thought of complaining about titles and rank and then decided it was best not to say anything in that regard – yet. "That's very generous of you. I'm honored."

"One more thing, Jaimie," added Chakotay. "You can't wear those," he said indicating her Levis and the rest of her outfit. "You have to wear a uniform just like the rest of us when you are on duty."

"But I don't even wear a uniform at home!" she exclaimed with a deep scowl.

"Sorry, a uniform is required," said Kathryn sternly. "So replicate one for duty tomorrow."

"Blast!" muttered Jaimie, the wordage drawing grins from Tom and B'Elanna. She then looked at Kathryn, who now moved to stand.

"Okay. I'm honored and pleased to accept your offer. I wont let you down, as long as you don't throw a Cruiser in my face," she added with a sly smile. Then looking at the rest of the group she smiled and then frowned deeply as she complained, "Geez! This means I have to behave!"

Jaimie noted everyone in the room laughed except for Mr. Tuvok. Well . . . she would work on that!

FINIS.

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