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

The Jaimie Series - Part 4

The Trainee

by Dee Price


Jaime stretched back in her chair as she stared out her front room window at the trees, her thoughts drifting to Kathryn and Chakotay. It had been a month since they had rescued and returned her to the 29th century and then she had rescued and returned them to Voyager. She smiled about that with the saying 'turn about is fair play' running through her mind. They hadn't known, nor would she ever tell them, what getting out of that hospital bed, rescuing and returning them to their century had taken out of her. She was so weak on her return she was barely functioning, and even had to ask Gates for help.

Without hesitation he had grabbed the other 'timer', quickly flown out, intercepted her ship and transported over. He then took over and flew her ship in to the base. Although she had tried to object, he had picked her up and transported directly to the hospital where her son, Dr. Chakotay, had immediately put her to bed and virtually "thrown away the key." She ended up spending one whole week in that hospital bed, most of which was a haze as Chakotay had, for the most part, kept her sedated.

The three 'booster' shots she had taken had also had complications, in that once they were out of her system, healing had slowed dramatically, setting her recovery back even more, which was another contributing factor to her stay in the hospital. "Live and learn" had been her only reply to her sons admonishments, but having never experienced anything like that before she naturally felt a great deal of personal embarrassment. She had tremendous pride in her ability to deal with any injuries or setbacks.

To make matters worse, upon her release from the hospital Starfleet had issued a carte blanche order that she rest for one solid month and be given no assignments of any kind, which Gates was only too willing to follow to the letter. Beyond the fact the entire Starfleet base had known Kathryn and Chakotay had been here, only the Admiral, Captain Gates, and her family knew of her mission to return them to Voyager, but she suspected others had guessed. Starfleet had eventually issued a terse statement that Captain Janeway and Commander Chakotay had been returned to the 24th Century.

She entertained a huge stretch and smiled. The month was now over, and although still not 100% she was looking forward to returning to work tomorrow. Not that she had been lazy during this time. She had actually cleaned up her house (and took much kidding from Katelyn and Jeremiah in this regard), worked in the yard, installed a new door and alarm system, and had also found time to monitor Voyager. No damaging or dangerous encounters, just the normal expected adventures that matched their logs. She could picture them feeling quite bored with this routine.

Additionally she had also spent a great deal of time with Roman, discussing what caused the Janeway/Chakotay fiasco and trying to understand him. But she had also spent a lot of relaxing, enjoyable time with her grandchildren, Katelyn and Jeremiah, taking long walks, talking, reading and camping with them, and yes, a lot of time laughing, too. Oh how she loved them! Although close, this interaction had brought them even closer. Her son Kolobek had left on his mission a week after Kathryn and Chakotay had been returned to the 24th Century, but before leaving had spent one evening with Jaimie discussing the fantastic events of actually seeing their beloved progenitors. Jaimie didn't know when he would return as his mission was "Classified." Her other son Hirato would not return from his mission for almost two years.

Yawning, she walked over to her Replicator, and after getting some Lemon Herbal Tea, walked outside and inhaled deeply of the fresh air. She smiled as she looked around. She loved this area . . . secluded, peaceful and green. Taking a sip of her tea she walked over and sat down in the Deck chair.

A few moments later, a Shuttle appeared overhead and slowly settled to the ground. Jaimie did not rise but watched with seeming disinterest, sensing who it was. Gates stepped out, accompanied by a young Ensign. Jaimie sat silently watching them approach. He smiled as he walked over, introduced Ensign Kobe Katane, passed a few moments with pleasantries, and then grew silent.

Jaimie smirked, then asked in a sarcastic tone, "Okay, Gates, what is it?"

"What do you mean?"

"Just that. You've got something on your mind, so spill it."

Gates looked off in the distance for a moment, then back at Jaimie. "You're not going to like it."

"I don't like most of what you say, Gates," said Jaimie shrugging her shoulders, "So just say it for crying out loud."

"Well, with your recent health situation, Starfleet has assigned Ensign Katane to be your Assistant and . . ."

"My WHAT!" shouted Jaimie jumping to her feet.

Although Kobe was startled and embarrassed at her reaction, Gates was non-plussed and calmly continued. "Your Assistant. He was the top Graduate last week and Starfleet wants you to train him. They feel you are eventually going to retire and they'll need someone to replace you and with your expertise training him, he should be excellent."

Jaimie's face went from outrage to shock to amusement. She threw her arms up in the air. "You are trying to phase me out, to retire me!"

"No, no, no," Gates said quickly. "I assure you that you will work as long as you're able. It's just the recent incident showed Starfleet even you are vulnerable. We have only one other 'Timer', Jaimie, and he is not even close to your expertise. Kobe is sharp and has expressed an interest to learn from you. Besides," and Gates broke into a big smile, "Kobe is an avid Voyager fan, and knows as much about them as you do."

"Oh he does, does he?" Jaimie turned and for the first time gave Kobe a long appraising look.

Kobe nervously shifted his feet. "I really admire you, Lt . . ."

"Don't ever call me that Kobe! I don't like titles."

"Sorry," and he looked over at Captain Gates. "It's just that I've never met you before and my parents drummed into my head that I never call anyone by their first name until they tell me to."

"Well you've been told. Either call me Jaimie or leave."

"Yes ma'am - uhm Jaimie."

"Okay, so you think you know a lot about Voyager?"

"I'd like to think I do, but Captain Gates misstated when he said I knew as much about them as you do. There isn't anyone who knows Voyager like you do."

"Well I'm glad we got that straight," said Jaimie with a smile. "That just erased one strike against you." Tilting her head towards the door she said, "Let's step inside and talk." Then looking at Gates as they started to move inside, "If I train him, Gates, it wont be as my assistant. You know I work alone." Gates knowing better than to try and argue with her merely nodded.

Jaimie served them some tea and the threesome then spent the next hour discussing the time traveler's needs, deportment, qualifications, rules, unwritten rules, needs to know the culture and history of an area prior to assignment and anything else Jaimie could think to throw into the conversation to see if she could trip up Kobe in anyway. Kobe absorbed everything Jaimie threw at him, asked intelligent questions, and did not fall into any of Jaimie's 'traps'. This not only surprised but also pleased her.

Finally Gates looked at Jaimie. "Well?"

Jaimie looked at Kobe. He was indeed brilliant and, more important, likeable, knowledgeable and enthusiastic. Then looking at Gates, she hesitated, as if to deliberately annoy him, looked down and as she looked back at Gates shrugged her shoulders and said simply, "Okay."

Gates smiled broadly and looked at Kobe. "That may not have sounded like much, Kobe, but it was HUGE!"

Kobe smiled. "Thank you, Jaimie. I promise I wont let you down."

Jaimie gave the familiar wave of her hand and response of "Yeah, yeah," but added, "time will tell." Then smiling she turned to Gates, "Get it, 'time will tell' . . . oh never mind, Gates, one of these days you'll get a sense of humor and I'll faint!"

A muffled sound from Kobe caused them both to look at him. He was trying desperately to stifle a laugh.

"Well, you just erased another strike. At least you have a sense of humor," said Jaimie smiling.

Gates then stood and announced it was time for them to leave and all three walked out to the Shuttle. After Gates had settled in his seat, he said, "See you tomorrow, Jaimie. It will be good to have you back. Maybe you can take Kobe on a short ride to show him your ship."

Jaimie frowned and waggled a finger at Gates. "I'll teach him and show him in my own way, Gates. Now get out of here and let me have my peace and quiet."

*

Meanwhile, Voyager had started to have some Warp problems and Torres had pinpointed the problem to the gel packs.

"They are just running out of juice," was the quickest way B'Elanna stated it when Janeway asked for an explanation. Kathryn had smiled at that. The explanation, without going into detailed technical jargon, had indeed been succinct.

"Harry, please stay alert for any warp capable planets. We will soon be in desperate need of not only gel packs but repairs if this problem exacerbates into other systems."

"Aye, Captain. Nothing nearby, however."

*

Jaimie strode briskly down the corridor. It felt good to be back at work and everyone had greeted her with big smiles and "Glad to see you back, Jaimie." She had acknowledged their greetings with "Good to be back I assure you."

Soon she brusquely shoved open two doors, heard a thud followed by a moan and then was horrified to see an Ensign staggering from the blow of the door.

Quickly she assisted her to her feet and apologized as she helped pick up the Padd's, which had been dropped to the floor.

"Sorry. I should have been careful opening those doors, Mandy. You okay?"

"That's okay Jaimie. I'm fine,' she lied as he turned her head hoping Jaimie wouldn't see the red welt that was rapidly forming on her cheek.

Jaimie apologized again and then trotted down the corridor, turned left and headed for the 'time travel' section of the building. Kobe was standing outside her door and greeted her with a warm smile. "Good morning, Jaimie." She merely waved her hand in greeting, slid her card in the lock and the door silently swung open.

Jaimie decided she was going to take it slow with Kobe. She had spent the afternoon after they had left yesterday going over Kobe's record and could see he was brilliant and a fast learner. Still she did not want to move too fast and spent this first day explaining the purpose of this office and why mistakes could not be tolerated in any way shape or form. "One mistake and you are altering a timeline and I can't emphasize that enough."

She also took him to 'class' by presenting various previous 'problems' that had to be corrected, letting him solve it and then showed him the record of what actually happened. Sometimes his solution was correct but other times, it was very wrong.

She continued this slow approach for the next two days.

*

"Captain we are coming up on a Class M planet that indicates warp capability," called out Harry.

"Excellent, Harry. Hail them."

After a brief greeting, during which Janeway explained they needed to make repairs, she was welcomed and told they could beam down to the planet.

The name of the planet, Miragee, intrigued Chakotay, even though it was pronounced Mir- ah- gee, as it was similar to the earth word mirage.

He, with Tuvok and B'Elanna, entered the transporter room very hopeful of procuring materials for their gel packs and various other repair and upkeep supplies that were needed.

Meanwhile Janeway was on the Bridge, alternately looking up at the planet on the view screen and down at her console. Harry was working his station and Tom was relaxed at the Helm. All in all a rather quiet Bridge this day after the hectic last three days limping along on Quarter Impulse.

"Harry, have you picked up any readings of Deuterium? I don't seem to see any on my console."

"Not yet, Captain. Wait a minute. Yes, on the Southernmost Hemisphere, there are some readings."

"Good, we'll also have to inquire about that. Won't hurt to increase our supply." She reached back and massaged her neck. What was it! For the last month she kept having the feeling she should be remembering something, and Chakotay had reported the same feeling! Unless she remembered soon she felt like she was going to explode. She smiled as she thought of Chakotay. Somehow they were closer of late - an unspoken feeling seemed to flow between them every time she looked at him. She sighed. If only we weren't on the same ship. But then if she hadn't been sent to capture him, she might never have met him. Was it fate? Well, at least this way she knew him, knew her feelings for him, but just couldn't act on them, which was very frustrating with him so near . . . and damn him, he always seemed to make a point of standing close!

Suddenly the stillness was broken. "Chakotay to Captain Janeway."

Startled, she glanced up, hoping the Bridge crew hadn't seen her jump. "Janeway here. What is it Chakotay?"

"Good news, Captain. Their Gel Packs appear very compatible with ours and B'Elanna says they will work just fine."

"That is good news, Commander. Have her get a few extras. You never know when they might come in handy."

"Okay - and Captain . . . the Magistrate met with us at the beam down point and has invited you and I to dinner tonight."

Damn, thought Kathryn. These official meetings were sometimes a pain.

"Captain?" Chakotay then lowered his voice. "The Magistrate is not nearby so you can say what you are thinking!" Janeway could tell by the sound of his voice he was smiling.

"Thank you, Chakotay," she replied with a soft chuckle. "Oh, all right, tell him we would be honored, even though I had planned a quiet evening in my quarters."

"Do you wish me to add the last part, Captain?"

"That's enough, Commander!" she said as she started to laugh. "See you later."

Janeway looked up to see Tom facing her with that half smirk on his face. "Not a word from you Tom!"

"Sorry, Captain, but if you wanted, I could take your place and pretend I'm the Captain." Upon the dirty look he got from Janeway, he smiled and quickly added, ". . . or not."

"Not unless you want to be cleaning . . ."

"Oh no, ma'am," interrupted Tom quickly. "I don't feel like being a grease monkey today."

From at the OPS station, Harry laughed. "You are really going to get yourself in a pickle some day, Tom."

Janeway smiled and returned to studying her console. Abruptly she stood, told Tom he could 'act as Captain' while she was in her Ready Room, and left the Bridge.

Later that evening, Kathryn and Chakotay entered the transporter room to beam down to the dinner. Although an official dinner and greeting, the Magistrate had told Chakotay dress was informal, which pleased them both.

As they materialized, the Magistrate stepped forward with a warm smile. "Captain, I'm Magistrate Malikai. Welcome to our fair city of Milena. Your First Officer was correct, Captain. You are indeed a beautiful woman."

Kathryn, startled, looked at Chakotay and found his face turning pink. "Why thank you Magistrate Malikai. I wasn't aware the Commander had that opinion."

Malikai laughed. "Perhaps I shouldn't have divulged that information. If I have caused a problem, I apologize. Now come, the festivities will begin shortly and I wish to introduce you to our Council of Elders." He turned to lead the way and Kathryn reached out and took Chakotay's arm. "Beautiful, eh? A First Officer isn't supposed to speak of his Captain in those terms."

"What was I supposed to say Kathryn? He asked me to describe you." Then he smiled as he added, "and you know a Native American doesn't lie."

Kathryn laughed and squeezed his arm. "Just wait until I get you back on the ship."

Chakotay eyes danced mischievously. "Why Kathryn - my quarters or yours?"

"Now stop that," she said and laughed again. It was so nice to banter with Chakotay this way. Made her feel good, and at the moment like a woman, not a Captain.

Dinner was pleasant and tasty and Kathryn found the people friendly and quite likable. This might be a pleasant stop after all, and as they were going to be here for about three days, these amenities would help the crew revitalize their energies for the next part of their journey home.

Later on board Voyager, Chakotay and Kathryn walked slowly down the corridor heading to their quarters. At Kathryn's door, Chakotay gave her his heart-melting smile, gently touched her cheek, and said, "It was a pleasant night and nice to see you so relaxed. I hope you have a good night's sleep, Kathryn."

Kathryn reached up and took hold of his hand. In a husky voice she responded, "Thank you, Chakotay, and you have a pleasant night as well." He turned and left and as she entered her quarters, she found herself trembling. He always seemed to have that effect on her, especially of late. Reaching back she started to massage her neck and sighed. If only they were back in the Alpha Quadrant . . .

*

Jaimie sat back and watched Kobe. For the last hour she had once again been taking him through her ships controls, as well as registering his voice with the computer. She had finally decided to check him out in her ship and they had spent this time flying around the planet. Finally she had relinquished the controls to him, but now sat there nervous as a flea on a hot tin roof with someone else flying her ship. He seemed to remember all the controls on this fly around, but she still stayed tense. As she watched, she decided three days of this practice and then she might take the ship through a time rift - just practice, no job.

Gradually she relaxed as she watched him. Kobe was good! In fact he was very good. He had a soft touch and easy manner with the maneuvers she had him go through. He will be an excellent pilot, so why did he want this time travel position she wondered.

"Ok, Kobe. Let's head for port. I'll even let you bring it in."

He smiled in delight. "Roger that. Thanks Jaimie! This ship handles like velvet. Do you have special equipment?"

"Lots! And lots I haven't even begun to tell you about. When we get back, we'll spend some time on my tracking equipment. About time you had a look at that."

Kobe brought the ship in smoothly. But just as he glided into the dock, it lurched, jumped forward and bounced down. Kobe's hands flew over the controls and he finally got it stopped in the dock. "My God! What did I do?" Kobe exclaimed. Jaimie just sat and stared at him, a touch of anger in her eyes. Kobe felt pure panic. "I blew it didn't I?"

Jaimie continued to stare at him, then leaned back and crossed her arms over her chest. "Think about it, Kobe! Go through in your mind the correct docking procedure."

Kobe sat and stared at the controls for a long time, muttering that he couldn't find what he did wrong. Jaimie did not move, just watched him. The door suddenly hissed open and Gates walked in. Observing the silence, and having seen the landing, he stood quietly a few moments. Finally he walked up behind Kobe, patted him on the shoulder and said, "Relax, Kobe, she did that to me the first time she let me fly her ship!"

Kobe looked up at him, puzzled. Then slowly understanding started to show in his eyes. Turning to look at Jaimie, he said, "You did something to the ship! That wasn't my fault after all."

Jaimie just continued to stare at him, then leaning towards him she suddenly broke out laughing. "Yeah, a little rookie joke and you handled it faster than Gates did years ago. Nice job, Kobe," then she stood, winked at him and went out the door.

Kobe looked up at Gates who was now laughing himself. "I could have damaged her ship, Captain!"

"No, it was a split second glitch she had programmed in. Even with what you probably tried to do on the panel, it wouldn't have mattered. The ship was programmed to stop when it did. But it was a test, Kobe. She watched your reaction and probably had the computer time it down to nanoseconds."

Kobe sat there and shook his head. Finally he looked up. "She is going to do something every day isn't she?"

Gates smiled as he turned to go out the door. "Count on it, Ensign."

Kobe exited the ship and found Jaimie on her hands and knees examining the bottom of the ship.

"Any damage?" he asked, all the while crossing his fingers.

"Just one scratch. The computer bounced it harder than I planned. Must correct that." She then stood and walked towards the port door. Kobe ran to catch up. "Where to now?"

"Lunch, then all afternoon in my work shop."

They went through the door and Kobe stopped as Jaimie walked on a few feet. Turning, Jaimie looked at Kobe. "Are you coming or don't you like to eat with a woman?"

Kobe blushed. "Sorry. Didn't know I was invited."

"As long as you are my trainee, young man, we do everything together." She hesitated. "Correction - everything except sleep and when nature calls."

Kobe laughed. "Understood and gratified - for the explanation," he hastily added. Jaimie slapped him on the back and joined in the laughter.

During lunch Jaimie talked about various things seemingly not connected to TT, yet Kobe had the strong feeling every question was an evaluation of him. Finally lunch was finished, and they headed for her workshop. A long afternoon was spent going through the tracking devices she used, their function, how they were read, where records were kept, etc. Kobe's head began to swim with all the information she was throwing at him. He tried to concentrate on everything she said, but finally realized it was a losing battle.

"Jaimie?"

"Yes?"

"I'm lost."

Jaimie leaned back in her chair and a smile slowly spread across her face. "I was wondering how long it was going to take you to admit that. Kobe - never ever be afraid to admit you don't understand something."

"I just don't want to disappoint you and I don't want to fail. I like this job very much."

"You will fail and you will disappoint me if you don't learn and remember, and that will happen if you don't understand. In TT, history, cultures, languages etc., etc, are critical to know. I can't expect you to even begin to understand all that yet. But you must know and understand this machinery and the purpose of TT. It's not fun and games. It's very delicate and yet dangerous work. As I keep telling you one mistake and history is changed. Do you understand that concept, Kobe?"

Kobe nodded. "Yes I understand the importance of keeping time unchanged." He then looked away for a moment. Jaimie waited. As he looked back at her his eyes glanced at the wall and he said, "It must have been very difficult for you making contact with Voyager knowing they were your ancestors."

Jaimie stared at him a moment. "Voyager isn't the lesson here. But yes, it was difficult and at the same time exciting and by being exciting that made it dangerous. Do you understand what I'm trying to say?"

"Yes, you had to be extra careful to not let your emotions get in the way and make a mistake that would change something."

"Exactly. Now go home. I need some rest. All this teaching is wearing me out."

Kobe smiled, bid goodnight and went out the door. Jaimie watched him walk down the hall, then turned and went back to her chair. Giving a big sigh she leaned back and looked up at the picture of Kathryn and Chakotay she had on the wall. She loved them so much, especially after meeting them in person. They were real now, not just some names in the History books. On top of that, all of Starfleet had seen them and they were still talked about in awed tones. And Kobe? Periodically he had brought up the subject of Voyager. Maybe in a couple of days she would go back and see Voyager again . . . but only from a distance. That would satisfy Kobe – for a while.

*

Voyager was a beehive of activity. Groups were going down to the planet for R&R while others were going down for supplies. Personnel bustled down corridors, heading for various assignments, lunch or time off. Every department was busy with repairs.

Chakotay was again on the planet procuring more supplies so the various groups could quickly haul them back to Voyager or take equipment over to the Shuttle. Large pieces of equipment were beamed directly to the Cargo Bay. This planet certainly had most of what they needed. Kathryn will be pleased, mused Chakotay to himself. Reaching back he started massaging his neck. Why did he keep doing that? What was it he was trying to remember? He had felt this way for more than a month now!

Shaking his head he glanced up to the sky. I wonder what Kathryn is doing now? Probably busy with reports. I love her so much, but nothing can be done about that. Maybe in time . . . He sighed audibly. Just being down on the planet without her caused his heart to ache. As he turned back to his work he spotted a nice park in the distance. People, including a few Starfleet personnel were laying around on the grass relaxing. Acting on impulse he tapped his Com Badge.

"Chakotay to Captain Janeway."

"Janeway here," came a detached voice. "Any problems, Chakotay?"

"None Kathryn. Are you busy?"

"Just the usual - catching up on reports."

"How about coming down for a couple of hours? I see a nice park we could just relax in. I'll help you with those reports this evening . . . over dinner."

Kathryn put her Padd down as she turned and looked out the Port View. "Actually Chakotay I . . . " She hesitated and then smiled. "Actually that sounds rather inviting. I'll change and be down later. Janeway out." She stood and headed for her quarters with a smile on her face.

Chakotay grinned as he looked up towards the sky. "I'll be waiting Kathryn," he said softly to himself.

Twenty minutes later a shimmering a few feet away caused Chakotay to immediately break into a smile and as Kathryn materialized that was the first thing she saw. "Kathryn!" he called out.

"All right, Chakotay. Where's this park? I packed a picnic lunch for us," she said as she lifted up a basket for him to see.

"Your cooking or Neelix's" he teased, while indicating the park in the distance.

Taking hold of his arm she laughed. "You are never going to forget that meal I cooked for you on New Earth are you?"

"Never," he said laughing. "You almost killed me!"

"Oh now, it wasn't that bad!"

Reaching the park they selected an area that was partially shaded. Kathryn sat down on the lush green grass and took a deep breath. "Thank you for suggesting this, Chakotay. A couple hours of this and I'll be ready to hit those reports with gusto!"

"You're welcome, my Captain," he said as he sat down beside her. "I'm famished. Shall we eat now?"

They ate in the quiet solitude the park offered. When finished, Kathryn lay back and closed her eyes. She heard a sound that sounded like some animal and her thoughts drifted to the monkey on New Earth. New Earth . . . the home she often thought of, the home in her mind where she entertained thoughts about she and Chakotay, thoughts she could not act out in real life on Voyager. Something tickled her lips and she swatted at it. Again the tickling sensation and again she flipped her hand at the annoyance. When it happened a third time she suddenly opened her eyes and saw Chakotay and that beautiful smile of his and a piece of grass he was slowly lowering towards her lips. She laughed, grabbed it and tossed it away.

"Kathryn!" That blade of grass caressed your lips and now it's gone." He smiled again, sighed, and said softly, "Lucky blade of grass."

Kathryn smiled and sat up, but made no retort, at least not the one she wanted to. She watched with interest the various activities in the park and then with a sigh said, "I think I've been down here long enough, Chakotay. Better get back to work. How much longer on the supplies?"

He frowned slightly, hesitated as he evaluated it, then said, "I think B'Elanna and Neelix will be finished lining things up tomorrow morning and it shouldn't take long to beam up. So I would guess we'll be through by midday tomorrow. We have really hit the mother lode on this planet."

"That sounds good, Chakotay. We will get underway then as soon as the last of the supplies are on board. Some of the repairs won't be finished yet, but that will keep the crew busy on the next leg of our journey." She then tapped her Com Badge, told Chakotay she would see him later and said, "Voyager, one to beam up."

*

Kobe showed up bright and early the next morning. So early in fact, he had actually beaten Jamie. He was sitting at the desk studying the tracking equipment when she quietly walked in. Noting he was there and what he was doing made Jaimie smile. Yes, this young man just might be okay.

"Good morning, Kobe, you're early."

Kobe, deep in concentration jumped slightly. Then he smiled and said, "Good morning, Jaimie. I just wanted to go over what you were covering yesterday when I felt lost."

Jaimie nodded and told him to continue, that she had a few things she wanted to do first before heading for the ship.

Kobe immediately went back to his notes, while Jaimie picked up the Padd containing the Voyager logbook and started scanning through it. Something had started to eat at her last night and she wanted to check on upcoming days. Finding the event in question, she leaned back and quietly read over the log, re-reads it to make sure she hadn't missed anything, then satisfied it was nothing critical, put it away and stood. Kobe seeing this immediately did the same. Jaimie nodded towards the door and they both headed for the Docking Port.

After checking out all the systems, they took off, with Jaimie unexpectedly letting Kobe do it. At first he was nervous wondering if she had programmed an unexpected event, but soon relaxed. This was 'school time' and she was quite serious. They spent the next hour reviewing various tasks she had introduced him to yesterday, and Jaimie could barely hide her approval from Kobe. This young man was very good and she found she liked him a lot.

"Okay, Kobe, let's try an entry now."

He looked at her, excitement spreading all over his face. "Really? That's great."

Jaimie took control of the ship, entered commands, the rift appeared and they entered. Soon they were out of the rift and Kobe looked around. "Where are we, Jaimie?"

"Twenty-sixth Century Earth. Didn't you pay attention to the commands?" she asked, a slight irritation in her voice.

"I'm sorry. I guess I was too excited about my first time travel," he said, his voice indicating dismay at this 'failure'.

Jaimie grunted, entered more commands, the rift appeared and they went through into their own time. She then had Kobe repeat this procedure twice before they landed and headed for the office.

Just as they were about to enter her office, Captain Gates appeared in the corridor and as he walked toward them asked, "How are you feeling, Jaimie?"

"Great" she replied without a trace of a smile.

Gates grinned, looked at Kobe and asked how the pupil was doing. "Fair," she replied with a frown, "But we'll keep working on him."

Gates nodded and held up a Padd. "Feel up to a small repair job? Should be able to take care of it in less than an hour, and it will be good experience for Kobe."

Jaimie took the Padd out of Gates' hand and studied it for a couple of minutes. She looked up at Gates and nodded. "Right. We'll leave now," and headed for the door.

As they exited the rift, Kobe smiled and looked at Jaimie. "20th Century Asia. What are you supposed to do?"

"Well, I see you at least paid attention this time," said Jaimie with a smile. "It's not much. Just have to keep a certain young man from making a wrong turn in his life."

Jaimie turned on the ship's cloaking device and parked the ship in a low orbit. Reaching to their waists, they both initiated their belt's cloaking device and transported to the surface. Appearing by a large building they followed a man through the doors and once inside Jaimie headed for the stairs with Kobe right behind. They entered a room in which a young man was staring thoughtfully out the window. Kobe noticed he was holding a sheet off something. What was it? Oh yeah, paper!

Turning from the window, the man sighed, looked at the paper, and then placed it in the 'Shred' box. As he turned his coat hit the box and box and paper fell to the floor. After retrieving them he placed the paper in the box and started again to leave the room. At that moment the phone rang. He looked at it, undecided on whether to answer or not and finally reached out and picked up the receiver, but upon answering all he heard was a dial tone. Once more he started to leave, but a gust of wind from the fan across the room made the paper flutter, drawing his attention. He stared at it for a moment, reached over, picked it up and seemed undecided or confused. Finally with a shrug of his shoulders and a loud sigh, muttered out loud "What the hell! All they can do is say no," and placing it in the 'Out' Box left the room.

"Okay let's go" Jaimie whispered and they followed the man out of the room. Once outside, the man headed for a lot where a lot of machinery of various sizes and colors were lined up. Kobe stood searching his memory of History and suddenly recalled they were automobiles and that was a parking lot. He turned to say something to Jaimie only to discover she had walked on and disappeared from view. Kobe ran after her and after catching up, apologized for being distracted. Jaimie merely punched her belt, Kobe immediately did the same and they were on the ship.

"That was fantastic the way you kept bringing that paper to that guy's attention. How did you manage all that?"

Jaimie shrugged her shoulders. "Just a few simple tricks of the trade and knowing about the antiquated electronics of the era."

Kobe laughed. "Yeah, but I thought you were going to get caught when you took hold of the guys coat and made sure it hit the 'Shred' box!"

"Caught? Me? Why I'm offended you could even think that, Kobe," then she laughed.

"What was it you had to stop him from doing?"

"An electronic invention leading to a radical change in processors almost got shredded. Eventually he would have submitted it but this was the right time."

Kobe, sensing that was the only information he was going to get, just nodded and said, "I see."

As they made preparations to leave, Jaimie hesitated looked a Kobe and put in some new commands. Kobe looked at her. "Those aren't the commands to return home, Jaimie. Even as green as I am I've learned that."

Jaimie gave a sly smile. "Just a little side trip. Won't take long."

Kobe was still frowning as they came out of the rift. He looked around but didn't see anything. Jaimie then entered some new commands and the ship shot forward.

*

Voyager was delayed from leaving Miragee because B'Elanna had reported that one crewman, Ensign Porter, had not yet reported in. A response from the computer indicted that he was indeed not on the ship. An exasperated, yet concerned Captain, ordered Harry to search the planet.

"I'm sorry Captain," Ensign Kim reported shortly, "Sensors are not picking him up anywhere."

Looking at Chakotay who had a puzzled look on his face, Janeway said, "Well he just didn't vanish into thin air!" She stood, then turned and faced both Ensign Kim and Tuvok. "Do either of you show him leaving the ship this morning, or any unauthorized use of Shuttle or Transporter since all the crew were ordered back?" Both studied their consoles and reported negative findings.

Janeway sighed. "Hail the Prime Minister, Harry."

Soon a smiling Prime Minister was on screen. After listening to Janeway's explanation about a missing crewman, he frowned. "But if your sensors do not show him on board ship or here on Miragee, Captain, where could he be?"

"Actually Prime Minister, I was hoping you had an answer. Could you order a sensor sweep of the planet, while we continue our search?"

"Of course, Captain, we will help all we can."

After the screen went black, Janeway turned to Chakotay. "Any suggestions, Commander?"

"None that I can think of Captain," and then smiling added, "unless our mischievous Q whisked him away."

Janeway's eyes widened. "Do you think it could be him? That's the only logical answer I've heard."

Chakotay shrugged. "With him, anything is possible. Maybe it's even," and he lowered his voice so no one else on the bridge could hear, "our 'fumbling' Q."

"Well, we can't leave here unless we find him or find out what happened to him. Continue the search, Chakotay, I'll be in my Ready Room," and she left shaking her head in puzzlement.

*

Meanwhile Jaimie and Kobe were sailing through space and as Jaimie entered new coordinates, Kobe could restrain himself no longer.

"Where are we, Jaimie? Can't you at least tell me that? You keep entering commands."

Jaimie gave a secretive smile. "Just a few more minutes." Then she said, "Aha! I've got them. Take a look to your right, Kobe."

Kobe leaned forward and peered right. "I see a planet in the distance. There's also a ship of some kind in orbit. Won't they see us?"

"No we're cloaked with SB engaged." She increased the speed slightly. "Okay, we're closer. Now what do you see?"

Kobe again peered to his right. Suddenly his eyes were as big as saucers. "It's Voyager!" he shouted.

"Ow! No need to shout Kobe, I'm right beside you. Yes, it's Voyager."

"Wow! She's beautiful!" he exclaimed as he twisted in his seat to get a better view.

"That she is, Kobe . . . that she is."

"What planet are they orbiting?"

"It's called Miragee and technically they should have left about two hours ago, but a crewman is missing."

"Anything serious?"

"No. In awhile they will get him back. Turns out it was an accidental 'heist' by my bumbling Q practicing her finger snaps," said Jaimie who then started laughing at the image that conjured up in her mind.

"Can we go aboard, Jaimie? I would sure like to see them!"

Jaimie started to shake her head and then pursed her lips and her brow furrowed in thought. Suddenly she smiled. "Actually it's been quite awhile since I've seen them, or at least that they remember. I'd like to see them myself for a couple of minutes." After making Kobe promise he would stay cloaked and not say a word, that she would introduce him on another trip, they punched their belts and beamed down to Janeway's Ready Room.

Kathryn was sitting at her desk working on a Padd. Laying it down she walked to the View port, crossed her arms over her chest and stared out into space. As she stood there she reached back and gently massaged her neck.

"Penny for your thoughts, Kathryn," said Jaimie softly.

Kathryn, momentarily startled, whirled around. Seeing Jaimie, she broke into a broad smile. "Jaimie! How wonderful to see you. It's been a long time!"

Jaimie smiled back and while answering "It's great to see you, too," was thinking, Whew - she doesn't remember it was only last month they saved my life. Oops strikes again! Then glancing at Kobe, she saw he was smiling and moving close to Kathryn. Clearing her throat loudly caused Kobe to stop and glance at her, whereupon Jaimie frowned and Kobe immediately backed away.

Jaimie then moved over to Kathryn and gave her a big hug. "Are you on assignment, Jaimie?" Kathryn asked.

"On my way home from a very short job actually and couldn't resist stopping by to say hello." She looked around the room. "Where's Chakotay?"

"On the Bridge. He'll probably want to see you if this is just a short stop and tapped her Com Badge, "Chakotay, would you report to the Ready Room, please?"

"Right away, Captain," came his soft voice.

Jaimie looked at Kobe and saw he had already turned towards the door and waiting for Chakotay's entrance. Almost immediately the doors hissed open and in strode Chakotay. Seeing Jaimie, he broke into a large smile, went right to her and gave her a big bear hug.

"Jaimie. This is great! Don't tell me you are finally on another assignment?"

"Just finished you handsome man. On my way home and stopped to say hello."

"No problems with us, I take it," he grinned.

"Not this time, thank God. You've actually behaved yourselves," she said as she playfully punched his shoulder.

"Surely you have time to sit for a minute, Jaimie," said Kathryn as she moved to the couch.

As all three sat down, Jaimie watched Kobe, who was now walking over to Kathryn's desk. She tensed. He better behave himself! While the three chatted Kobe walked over in front of them and stood studying first Chakotay, then Kathryn. He was plainly excited and could not stop smiling. Finally he moved again to Kathryn's desk.

"Jaimie, you seem very nervous. Are you all right?" said Kathryn.

"Huh? Oh no, just tired I guess. I had an injury a month ago and lost a little fitness. Nothing important."

As Chakotay silently stared at Jaimie a moment he reached back and rubbed at his neck. This made Jaimie want to smile.

Just then a Padd fell to the floor from Janeway's desk.

Startled, all three looked at it. "What on earth?" said Kathryn

"Blast!" exploded Jaimie as she jumped to her feet. Then, "All right, Kobe, show yourself you incompetent young man!"

A very embarrassed young man appeared by the desk, his face beet red. "I'm sorry Jaimie! I didn't mean to . . ."

"Who is this, Jaimie?" asked Kathryn as she rose to her feet.

"A mistake," she growled. "I might have known this would happen. Kathryn, Chakotay, meet Kobe Katane, my trainee, who by the way just might be dismissed when we get back home," she said glaring at Kobe.

"Trainee?" asked Kathryn as she and Chakotay moved towards him. Kobe immediately started backing away.

"Oh, stop it, Kobe! They won't bite," said Jaimie in an angry tone. "I told you not to touch anything, but you just had to do it anyway didn't you?"

"I'm just so excited seeing them Jaimie, and then looking at these antiquated report Padd's, I just . . ."

By now Kathryn and Chakotay had reached his side. "Antiquated, huh? Well I assure you, in this time they are quite up-to-date." Then Kathryn smiled and held out her hand. "Pleased to meet you, Kobe. If you are assigned to Jaimie, you must be pretty good."

"Thank you Captain, but I hardly think her opinion of me right now is palatable."

"Oh her bark is worse than her bite," said Chakotay offering his hand. "Welcome aboard Voyager."

Kobe smiled, his excitement returning once again. Turning to Jaimie he said, "This is just so fantastic meeting them, Jaimie. I just can't believe I'm really here!"

Jaimie, who had secretly been amused, frowned at him. "You will be grounded for a month when we get back, Kobe. What you did in making yourself known on a time trip is inexcusable!"

A look of dismay crossed both Kobe's and Kathryn's faces. "Jaimie, it's not as bad as that. After all, we know of you, it's not like he committed a crime while on the job."

"It's still inexcusable in time travel, Kathryn. A real faux pas. You just don't make yourself known unless the job calls for it. Actually I had planned on introducing him, but in a more correct manner." Turning to Kobe, "Relax, Kobe, I wont kill you until we get home."

Kobe was still highly embarrassed, but at the same time remained excited over meeting Captain Janeway and Commander Chakotay.

"Engineering to Captain Janeway," was suddenly heard.

"Janeway here. What is it B'Elanna? Cargo Bay getting overloaded?"

"Well that too, Captain, but I just wanted to let you know two things. One is that Ensign Porter suddenly appeared. He's quite confused, but it seems some Q had snatched him and has been trying for the last hour to get him back here."

Jaimie and Kobe both snickered, causing Kathryn to look at them. Jaimie waved her hand and whispered, "My Q was at it again."

Kathryn smiled in understanding then asked B'Elanna what the second thing was.

"Well it seems we've been given some bad conduits, Captain. These are not what I looked at on the planet. Guess they figured we wouldn't check them before we were underway – and if not for Ensign Porter turning up missing, I wouldn't have."

"Understood. We'll be there shortly to check them out, and then if they are too bad I'll have you and Chakotay go back down and get them exchanged. Janeway out." Turning to the three of them, she said, "Let's go Commander – Jaimie if you want to cloak Kobe he can see the rest of the ship."

Kobe, without a second's hesitation, cloaked. Jaimie rolled her eyes and barked "Ensign!"

Kobe immediately reappeared looking flustered. "Sorry," he mumbled. "I'm really screwing up big time!"

"If you were Q I could understand it Kobe. You must contain yourself or I'll send you back to the ship!" She then went over to Kobe, fumbled with his belt a minute then nodded to Kathryn.

"What did you do, Jaimie?" asked Kathryn who couldn't help giggling at this young man.

"Just changed his configuration to my belt." Then glaring at the embarrassed Ensign, punched her belt and they both disappeared, even as she was muttering "Kids!"

Janeway and Chakotay, followed by the cloaked Jaimie and Kobe, strode into Engineering. B'Elanna looked up and motioned them over to a panel. After checking the difference between their Conduits and the one B'Elanna held in her hand, Janeway asked how many were bad.

"Only four, Captain."

"All right, you and Chakotay take them back to the planet, and try to handle it diplomatically and with all the tact you can muster. Hopefully there wont be any trouble."

Jaimie had let Kobe walk around Engineering, knowing full well the embarrassment in Janeway's Ready Room would prevent him from making any other mistakes. B'Elanna and Janeway continued their conversation, with B'Elanna showing the Captain some 'good' things they brought aboard. Finally Chakotay informed B'Elanna they should leave, and headed for the transporter room.

Kobe watched as Chakotay and B'Elanna transported down, amazed at this old method, then he and Jaimie joined Kathryn's return to the Bridge. Again Jaimie allowed Kobe to move around, examining the Bridge of Voyager and seeing first hand what he had studied at the Academy. Jaimie watched him, amusement on her face and suddenly bent down to Janeway's ear, whispered something, and gave Kobe a sign to join her. They disappeared from the Bridge, but not to the ship as Kobe expected. They were on the planet about ten yards from where B'Elanna and Chakotay were talking to the merchant who had sold them the defective conduits.

"You are here only to watch and learn," Jaimie said.

Kobe whispered, "I remember this incident. The man argues with them quite violently."

"Yes," added Jaimie, "But it is all eventually settled and Chakotay ends up with only a singed shoulder when the man fires and misses." Then turning to Kobe, she said, "Okay, let's head back. It's progressing like it should."

"Can't we please just see this through?"

Jaimie, who had started to walk away, hesitated briefly. Suddenly the man began shouting at B'Elanna, who with her Klingon temper aroused, shouted back, "You cheated us!"

Chakotay tried to intervene, but the man started shouting at him also. Finally Chakotay took B'Elanna's arm and steered her a few feet away.

The man, still quite upset, suddenly pulled his phaser and aimed it at Chakotay's back.

"No!" hissed Kobe and instinctively reacting to the scene before him, rushed towards the man.

"Kobe, no! Get back here," whispered Jaimie vehemently and immediately reached to her belt to beam them back to the ship before Kobe caused a problem.

Too late! Kobe dove at the man, knocking him to the ground, but in so doing the man's hand went under Kobe's body and the phaser fired, catching him full in the chest. Chakotay ran forward and grabbed the man as he rolled over on the ground, pulled him to his feet and pinned his arms behind him.

Jaimie raced over and bent down over Kobe. A stricken look came over her face and she quickly punched her belt. On the ship Jaimie frantically administered first aid to Kobe. Then slowly she straightened up and tears began running down her cheeks. She knelt there, crying uncontrollably for some time before she slowly got to her feet and staggered over to her chair. She sat heavily and let her head fall back, tears still streaming unchecked down her cheeks.

*

Chakotay finally got the man calmed down while B'Elanna looked around. "What the hell just happened, Chakotay? Suddenly that man is on the ground, and I heard a phaser fire but didn't see anything!"

Chakotay just looked at her, not only confusion on his face, but a distraught feeling as well. Was it Jaimie? "I don't know B'Elanna," he said as he looked around, yet knowing Jaimie was cloaked and if it was she he couldn't see her. "I saw as much as you." He then turned to the man and said, "Look, we are going to leave these defective Conduits with you, take replacements and leave."

The man, a very bewildered and shocked look on his face, could only nod.

B'Elanna picked out four good Conduits, placed the defective ones at the man's feet, tapped her Com badge and she and Chakotay transported to Voyager.

"What did you say happened? Tell me again, I don't understand," said Janeway to Chakotay and B'Elanna. The three of them were in the Ready Room and B'Elanna explained for the third time what she saw or didn't see. Chakotay gave his version, which was almost identical to B'Elanna's. Finally B'Elanna was excused and Kathryn informed Tuvok to get the ship underway as everyone was now back on board.

"Understood, Captain," came the reply.

Kathryn looked at Chakotay, who now with B'Elanna out of the room was plainly showing his distress. "Do you think it was Jaimie? Hearing a phaser but not seeing it and then the man suddenly lying on the ground - it seems the only logical explanation."

Chakotay shrugged his shoulders. "Could be, but why didn't she say something to me or see us back here. She could be hurt and I couldn't see her to help! I just don't know, Kathryn, but my back was turned when the man drew his phaser. If it was her, it looks like she saved my life!"

"It's not like her to leave without saying goodbye. That makes me worried, too, Chakotay," she said as she placed her hand on his chest. "Maybe she's just wounded and needed to get back for treatment."

"I just hope she's okay."

Kathryn agreed, then as there wasn't anything they could do, they headed to the Bridge.

*

Three days later, Kathryn and Chakotay were in the Ready Room going over the daily reports when Jaimie suddenly appeared.

"Jaimie," exclaimed Kathryn as she excitedly stood. Then she put her hand to her chest as she saw Jaimie's face. "What's wrong?"

Jaimie, looking drawn and haggard, with dark circles under her eyes, didn't say a word, just moved to Kathryn and put a belt around her waist. Finishing that, she did the same with Chakotay while still ignoring Kathryn's question. Finally, she removed both their Com Badges and placed them on the desk.

"What is the meaning of that, Jaimie," asked Kathryn rather sternly.

"Sorry," she said in a husky voice, "But I'm taking you to the 29th Century."

"What!" both Chakotay and Kathryn exclaimed. "Why?"

"Kobe was killed on Miragee. His service is today and as he loved Voyager and died thinking he was protecting Chakotay, it's only fitting you attend in his honor. He would be very pleased at your presence." Her voice broke and without further word she quickly stepped between them, punched her belt and they disappeared.

Appearing on Jaimie's ship they looked around, a stunned expression on their faces. Jaimie moved to her chair and started giving voice commands while punching at her console. The ship turned and started forward.

Kathryn suddenly realizing what was happening said, "We can't leave Voyager!"

"It will only be less than three hours, Kathryn. Besides, your badges are there and if they ask the computer your whereabouts they'll be told the Ready Room, think you want privacy and not do anything."

Chakotay looked at Kathryn. "Everyone except Tom. His devious mind will go into overdrive." At that thought Chakotay couldn't help but smile.

"Chakotay, please, not now," said Kathryn quietly.

"I know. I apologize, Jaimie. You are obviously hurting a great deal. It was Kobe then who knocked that dealer down? "

They were met with silence. Kathryn and Chakotay looked at one another and sadness filled Kathryn's face as she said, "That poor young man."

Moments later the ship entered the rift and just as suddenly Kathryn and Chakotay were seeing - or sensing - a different space. Soon they were over a large city and the ship swooped lower until they neared a large building. The ship silently glided down and through some doors and gently came to a stop.

"We are in the Docking Port now," said Jaimie as she moved back to them. "Every time we near a door I will hesitate just long enough for you two to go through. Please don't say anything and stay close to me." At that, she punched her belt and Kathryn and Chakotay were cloaked.

She then gave a voice command and the door opened. As Jaimie stepped out an Ensign hurried around from the front of the ship.

"Jaimie! Glad to see you back. You're in time for the ceremony."

"You know I wouldn't miss it, Rita," Jaimie said softly. "Just close it up will you? I intend to go back out the minute the ceremony is over."

"He was a good kid, Jaimie. We're all going to miss him. He was special."

Jaimie nodded and headed for the doors, opened them, looked back at Rita, then went through and started walking down the long corridor. Several turns and a turbolift ride later, she turned to a door, opened it and stepped in. Kathryn and Chakotay quickly followed. Closing the door Jaimie said, "I'm sorry I have to keep you cloaked, at least for a little while longer. Make yourself as comfortable as you can and with that she entered a side door and closed it.

"Well, Chakotay, we're in the twenty-ninth Century, but you couldn't prove it by me."

"We haven't seen much that's for sure. But it's understandable, Kathryn."

"I suppose, but it would be exciting to see something."

A few moments later, Jaimie stepped back in the room, resplendent in an all white uniform with many ribbons on her chest. As she placed white gloves on she said to them, "When we reach the Hall I will uncloak you and we will walk down the aisle to the front. Keep looking straight ahead, and don't say anything," she said in a warning tone.

She opened the door and with a slight nod, stepped out. Silently they walked down the corridor and then made a turn into a large foyer. As she went up to the two large doors she stopped, turned and slipping her hand under her dress jacket flap punched at a button on the belt. As Kathryn and Chakotay appeared she turned back to the doors and swung them open. After a brief hesitation, during which she took a deep breath, she started to march smartly down the aisle with Kathryn and Chakotay close behind.

The Hall was huge and filled, mostly with uniformed people. As they strode down the aisle Kathryn and Chakotay became aware of a murmur starting in the crowd and felt heads turning to stare at them. Keeping her eyes straight ahead, Kathryn nevertheless felt goose bumps rising all over her body. Arriving at the front of the Hall Jaimie indicated two seats and Kathryn and Chakotay quickly sat down, with a slight tinge of embarrassment. Chakotay stole a look at Kathryn and whispered, "Are you in as much awe as I am?" All Kathryn did was nod.

Kathryn became aware of the two people to her left staring at her and turning her head slightly saw two Officers, both with astonished looks on their faces. She didn't know if Starfleet insignia had changed in five hundred years, but one was definitely a Captain and the other possibly a General.

Meanwhile, Jaimie had ascended the steps and gone on stage. The moment she reached center stage, mournful music started, a door opened, and six Officers emerged escorting a casket. Kathryn almost gasped. The casket appeared to be floating on air! At the appearance of the casket the entire assemblage in the Hall rose smartly to their feet. A Prayer For The Dead was offered by one of the escorting Officers as the music ended, and then the two men beside Kathryn went up on the stage, walked over to the casket, saluted crisply and moved to Jaimie's side as another song began. At the conclusion of this song, Jaimie nodded and everyone sat down.

Turning to one of the officers who had stared at Kathryn, Jaimie nodded her head and he stepped forward. Kathryn was thrilled to hear his name. It was Captain Gates, Jaimie's superior officer that she had heard so much about. He made some brief remarks and then the other officer stepped forward, only he wasn't a General. His name was Admiral Kappa and he also said a few brief words. Both stepped back and stood at ease behind Jaimie, who moved forward and stared out at the gathering. For what seemed minutes she remained quiet, just looking out at the sea of faces. Then, looking down at Kathryn and Chakotay she started.

"We are here today to honor Ensign Kobe Katane," she said in a very soft voice. Then her voice rose and seemed almost angry. "He died three days ago, a useless death, a senseless death! It should never have happened. He knew the circumstances and knew nothing was going to happen, but as we are sometimes prone to do, Kobe reacted to what he suddenly perceived as a fatal situation. He reacted so fast and unexpectedly I was unable to stop him. Reaction mostly saves our lives, but his reaction resulted in his death, and even though I mourn his loss more than anyone in this room, I am also angry because his death is the result of my carelessness and I will bear that scar in my heart forever!"

Jaimie paused and took a deep breath, then looked down at Kathryn and Chakotay. Her voice became soft and tender. "Kobe loved Voyager and its Captain Janeway and First Officer Chakotay. Although I only knew him for less than a week before his death, it became obvious to me that he had tremendous affection and knowledge for this ship and its crew. In retrospect, Kobe died preserving that love, because he died feeling he had saved Commander Chakotay's life, and subsequently me and all of my ancestors. To have that much love for someone you have only read about in history books and yet willing to give your life for, is beyond most of our comprehension. So Kobe, I honor you. I honor you in the only way I could, by bringing Captain Janeway and Commander Chakotay to this century, to your service, so that they in turn could honor your wondrous ultimate sacrifice." Then extending her hand out to Kathryn and Chakotay she said, "Would you two please come to the stage?"

Kathryn and Chakotay looked at one another in shock, and then unmoving looked again at Jaimie.

"Please," she said again.

They rose and slowly ascended the stairs to the stage. As they did so, the entire audience stood, startling them both. Chakotay hesitated briefly then suddenly walked over to Kobe's casket. Reaching down to a wreath leaning nearby, he took two flowers and quietly laid them on Kobe's casket, then placed his hand on the surface and bowed his head. Kathryn, joining Chakotay, placed her hand over his and they both stood silently for a few moments.

Turning they looked back at Jaimie, whose facial expression had not changed, but whose eyes now glistened with moisture. Walking over to Jaimie they each hugged her and then turned to face the audience. Jaimie asked them to say a few words and indicated for the audience to sit.

Kathryn stepped forward and looked out at all the faces, then her voice ringing loud and clear to the back row said, "We are extremely honored to be here to honor Kobe. Both Commander Chakotay and I knew him for the briefest of times, but in those brief moments his smile, his excitement and love of Voyager, his enthusiasm on meeting us, was like a ray of sunshine entering our lives. You have suffered the loss of a member of your family and we share that sadness as we, too, have suffered losses to our Voyager family. We shall honor his memory in our hearts." Turning to the casket she said, "God love you, Kobe."

Jaimie then indicated for Chakotay to say something. Stepping forward he looked at the audience, then at his feet as he fumbled in his mind to say what was in his heart. Looking up at the hushed assembly he began in his quiet voice. "My people have a saying: When the body dies, the spirit is set free and becomes alive. Kobe's spirit is now soaring free. It is soaring throughout this room and touching each one of our hearts, and upon entering our hearts is letting us feel his love and enthusiasm for all things. Kobe, in his all too brief time, showed us how to live and how to die. Do not grieve for the shell that is in that box, but embrace Kobe's spirit and let it live in all of us." Chakotay then stepped back beside Kathryn and she took hold of his hand.

Jaimie turned towards the casket and Honor Guard. The Guard, turning as one to face the casket, started the ceremonial folding of the flag. Upon completion the Lt. in charge presented it to Jaimie, who stood looking at it in silence. She turned and moved to Kathryn and extended the flag to her, saying, "It would honor Kobe tremendously if you would take this flag and let it ride with you and Voyager in your remaining journey."

Kathryn, at first shocked, then took the flag and clutched it to her breast.

A ramp then slid out from the front of the stage and the Honor Guard escorted the casket down and onto the aisle as the assemblage again stood. Jaimie stepped in behind and indicated for Kathryn and Chakotay to follow her, and they in turn were followed by Captain Gates and Admiral Kappa. Both Kathryn and Chakotay felt embarrassed at being ahead of the Captain and Admiral but had received nods from them to follow Jaimie.

What happened next gave both Kathryn and Chakotay chills. The casket started to move slowly, with the Honor Guard using the slow hesitant footstep. As the casket reached each row, there was a simultaneous turn, salute and clicking of the heels. This was done with such precision and simultaneously by each side of the aisle that both Kathryn and Chakotay trembled in awe at the precise execution. It was inspiring and beautiful and both felt their throats constrict with lumps as big as an asteroid. They also had a tremendous feeling of pride at not only witnessing such a spectacle, but being part of it Glancing back, Kathryn could see that after each row had been passed the mourners were entering the aisle and forming a double row behind the lead group.

At the back of the Hall, the casket went through the doors and on outside, where a shuttle could be seen. Jaimie did not follow but turned to the right with Kathryn and Chakotay following, and they again entered the room they had been in before. No sooner had Jaimie closed the door then there was a soft knock. Jaimie glancing at Kathryn, said "Figures," and stepped to the door. Captain Gates and Admiral Kappa walked quickly into the room. They were introduced to Kathryn and Chakotay, and although smiling and shaking hands, it was obvious they were not pleased with Jaimie for bringing them here.

"This is not the time to say anything Gates," said Jaimie softly. "For Kobe's sake and what he did, they deserved to be here."

Surprisingly, both Gates and the Admiral agreed. Then Gates said, "It's not so much that you brought them here, Jaimie, it's that you brought them here openly that presents a problem."

"I'll take care of that with an 'Oops' if that's what you want," she said lowering her voice, "but I'd rather they are able to remember. They did see Kobe and have seen nothing except this building and the service, Gates."

Gates and the Admiral stepped to a corner of the room and conferred briefly. Coming back Gates asked, "What about the flag?"

"That can be handled at another time, but I don't see the problem." She then whispered something to Gates, who got a surprised look on his face, followed by a half smile. "I had forgotten that," he said.

Then Gates turned to Kathryn and Chakotay. "Please excuse the secretive talks, but I know you understand our concerns. We must go now and join the rest of the ceremony. Have a pleasant journey back to Voyager." The Admiral also said a blunt goodbye, and they left.

Jaimie looked at Kathryn and Chakotay. "Don't worry about it, guys. It will be okay. I'll work it out. Well, I'll change and take you back."

"Don't you want to participate in the rest of the ceremony, Jaimie?" asked Chakotay.

"Kobe knows I'm there in spirit," and she abruptly turned and walked into the next room.

After only a short wait for Jaimie, they walked out, this time visible to all. Upon arrival at the Docking Port the same Ensign who had greeted Jaimie on her arrival was standing by the ship. Her eyes gleamed with excitement at seeing Kathryn and Chakotay as word had spread fast that they were here.

"I heard the ceremony on the speakers. It was beautiful. I might have known you would bring them here, Jaimie. I should have guessed when you left in such a hurry this morning."

Jaimie clapped her on the shoulder as she walked by. "Never assume anything with me, Rita. You know better."

Kathryn and Chakotay smiled at Rita, shook her hand, then entered the ship, the door closed and soon Chakotay heard the soft hum of the ship as it started to glide towards the door. Immediately after exiting the building it seemed to shoot into a high altitude. Chakotay turned and looked at Kathryn and was surprised to see her frowning.

"What is it, Kathryn? You look worried."

"Something Jaimie said, in the service about 'saving me and all my ancestors'." Looking forward to Jaimie she asked, "What did you mean by that, Jaimie? Saving you and your ancestors? Kobe saved Chakotay, or thought he did . . ." Slowly Kathryn's face began to change from one of puzzlement to a new awareness.

"Jaimie?" she said softly. "Are you a descendent of Chakotay?"

"That's a very long story, Kathryn. Maybe someday I can explain but we really don't have time for that right now."

"It seems like I told you sometime back, that I have plenty of time."

Jaimie smiled remembering the first time they had met, but didn't offer any explanation. Instead she was silently berating herself for making that remark. Leave it to Kathryn she thought.

Kathryn grew quiet and her frown grew deeper, while her mind was working at warp speed. If Jaimie was a descendent of Chakotay, did that mean he stopped waiting for her and married someone else?

Chakotay, too, was now mulling the words over in his brain.

Jaimie, concerned about the silence, glanced back and saw such a look of dismay and heartbreak on Kathryn's face that it almost broke her heart. She thinks Chakotay moves on! Should she tell her? Knowing Kathryn, she would eventually come up with a possible, and incorrect, solution to her question. Suddenly she knew the answer.

"Kathryn?"

"Yes, Jaimie?" answered Kathryn in a rather detached voice.

"Do you remember the planet Aagon?"

"Yes."

"Do you remember the Uniting and Cleansing Ceremony you and Chakotay went through?"

"Yes, but we have not acknowledged that ceremony . . . or at least I haven't. We are joined in Spirit is the way we have decided to look at it.

"What about you, Chakotay?"

"In my heart it is real, Jaimie. But as long as Kathryn feels we cannot do anything I have abided by her wishes. But as I said - in my mind we are married."

Jaimie smiled. "And your people choose only one mate, right? For life."

"That's right."

Jaimie became silent. If Kathryn didn't figure it out from there, she never would and there wasn't anything else she could do. Sighing she knew that actually she had done too much already!

Suddenly an explosion of "Jaimie!" came from Kathryn's lips. Jaimie started to turn and ask what, then smiled and returned her attention to the console as she saw Kathryn turn to Chakotay. The ensuing silence made Jaimie burn to turn around but she didn't dare. This was their private moment. Finally she heard Kathryn whisper, "I guess you do wait for me, Chakotay."

"I told you I would," he said quietly. Then raising his voice he asked, "Jaimie, can you tell us when it happens?"

She shook her head. "You know very well I can't do that, but I assure you it will happen and happen naturally and in its own time, so don't try to wheedle it out of me!" She then gave a small laugh. "I've done it again. When I said that in the ceremony I almost stopped talking and hoped fervently you wouldn't pick up on it, but smarty-pants Kathryn – you just had to have eagle ears didn't you? That was one of the things Gates and Kappa were concerned about," she said as she exited the rift. After a time she caught up to Voyager and proceeded to maneuver the ship to match Voyager's, speed, then parked in 'Shadow Mode'.

"Here you are, ladies and gentlemen, back at Voyager and all safe and sound. Plus we've only been gone two and a half hours. They probably didn't even miss you."

"What about the flag, Jaimie?" asked Chakotay. "Do we hide it from the crew?"

"We have to Chakotay. How would we explain it if we don't hide it?" Kathryn asked.

"Oh, I'm sure you'll think of something, in time, Kathryn," smirked Jaimie. Now let's transport back to the Ready Room, then I must get back and face the music." Moving back beside them. Jaimie punched her belt and they were suddenly in the Ready Room. Jaimie proceeded to remove their belts, which made Kathryn comment she had completely forgotten they were wearing them.

"Simply because I put the belts themselves in cloak mode so they wouldn't show at the ceremony."

"Such technology they possess," mused Janeway.

Jaimie looked at her a moment, then shook her head. "I should make you forget what you know about the belts, but as long as you haven't been able to study it, I guess it wont hurt anything."

Both Kathryn and Chakotay frowned. "What do you mean forget?" asked Kathryn. Just as quickly she held up her hand and said, "Never mind. I don't want to know.

Jaimie grinned. "Good because I couldn't tell you!"

"So, Jaimie - are you a descendent of us?" asked Chakotay.

Jaimie was quiet a long time and just stared out the view port. Finally she looked back at them and with a shy smile said softly, "Eleventh Great Grandchild."

"No wonder I could feel something!" exclaimed Chakotay, "And that's why you are also so concerned about us."

"No you really have been an assignment of mine, but I must admit, that as we are related it made it very exciting to see you in person instead of a picture on my desk!"

"But it's been harder hasn't it?" Kathryn asked. "Especially that first time when you had to actually save our lives. If you hadn't . . ."

"Yeah that was a dicey one. The timing had to be just right, but it worked out okay." Then her eyes began to twinkle and she grinned mischievously.

"Well, Grandpa, Grandma,". . . then she exploded in laughter at the surprised, shocked looks that crossed their faces. "It will certainly be different seeing you after this now that you know. Maybe I should . . . no - no 'oops' today, I'll just let it be. Won't hurt anything."

Before Kathryn could question the 'oops' remark, she hugged both, and after giving them one last look and telling them she loved them, disappeared from view.

Kathryn and Chakotay looked at one another, suddenly ill at ease. Then Chakotay smiled, his dimples almost looking like caverns and his eyes twinkled. "Well, Kathryn, knowing you will eventually be my wife makes me very happy, but as we don't know when or how, I suggest we get back to work." Then indicating the door, he said, "After you, Captain."

Kathryn smiled. Chakotay had done it! Gone from personal to Command. "Good idea Commander, they probably haven't even missed us." Bending down, they picked up their Com Badges and went out the door to the Bridge.

"Report, Mr. Tuvok."

"Nothing to report, Captain," said Tuvok rising from the command chair. "Nothing has happened. Suffice it to say, everything has been very quiet."

Kathryn smiled as she and Chakotay took their seats. No incidents indeed thought Kathryn as she crossed her legs and leaned back.

FINIS

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