Disclaimer: Paramount owns all things Trek. I have just borrowed some of the characters for my story.

"Do You Remember?"

by Dee Price


"Shields are failing! Down to ten percent." said Tuvok.

"Divert all systems to the Shields," ordered Janeway.

"There is nothing more to divert, Captain," Tuvok said in his calm Vulcan voice.

"Raise Deflectors!"

"They are down as well."

Janeway looked at Chakotay sitting beside her. Voyager had been involved in a battle with a Maradi Battle Cruiser for the last hour and was taking a horrible beating. The Maradi felt they were invading their space illegally and Captain Janeway had failed to convince them they were just passing through. At that moment another Torpedo rattled Voyager.

"Shields are now down, Captain" reported Tuvok. "We are defenseless against their weapons."

"Harry is there a Nebula or something nearby that we can hide in?" she asked turning to his station.

"None Captain," said Harry with a worried look on his face.

"B'Elanna, we need something to get us out of here!" Janeway yelled, only to hear B'Elanna's growling irritated voice respond that she couldn't do anything.

"Everything is offline, Captain!"

"Tom, turn us around. Show them we are not aggressors."

Tom punched at his console but the ship moved as if in slow motion. "I'm sorry Captain, the controls have been damaged and are very sluggish," he said, frustration evident in his voice.

Another torpedo rocked Voyager, causing various consoles to explode with sparks flying through the air, lighting up the bridge like a fireworks display.

"Tom, do we have anything?" she asked.

"No Captain, we don't have Warp, we don't have Impulse and we don't have Thrusters. We are . . . dead in the water so to speak."

"Captain, it looks like they are not going to quit until we give up," said Chakotay calmly.

"Hail them again Tuvok," said Janeway as she rose from her seat.

"They have responded to our hail, Captain."

"On screen." As a face appeared Janeway said, "We are not invaders! You are attacking us for no reason. Please call off your attack so we may initiate repairs. We'll leave your space and go around even though it will extend our journey home. Please, you can see we are no match for you."

The face grinned, a smile that made your blood run cold. "We will not stop attacking until we kill you all. You are not allowed in our space. It is sacred to the Maradi."

"But we did not know that!" said Janeway in a pleading voice. "As I told you we are not from this Quadrant . . . we are from the Alpha Quadrant and just trying to get home."

"Your mistake and the screen went black.

Janeway turned to Tuvok just as Harry called out, "He's fired two more torpedoes!"

The explosions sent Janeway sprawling and equipment, parts of the ceiling and other debris rained down on the Bridge. Janeway pushed her hair out of her eyes as she struggled to her feet. "Tuvok, can we fight back with anything to defend ourselves?"

"All weapons are offline, Captain. The only things we have to fight with are our Phaser's and Compression Rifles should they board us."

"Kathryn?". . . .

She turned and looked at Chakotay, her expression a mixture of anger, hurt and pride.

"If we abandon ship maybe he will leave us alone," he said softly.

"Or shoot down each Emergency Pod. I wouldn't put it past him," she snarled. "No, at the present time we will not abandon Voyager, Chakotay." Turning toward Tuvok she said, "Make the ship look like its dead. Turn off all systems."

"Their scans will show we are alive, Captain, and I fear he will keep firing until there are no life signs."

"Suggestions . . . anybody?"

All she saw were blank faces and then another torpedo rocked Voyager and fires started at two consoles, but these were quickly extinguished by crewmembers. Tuvok now reported not only injuries but also fatalities.

"Hull breech on Decks 5, 8 and 10 Captain, and micro fractures on all decks," called out Harry.

Two more torpedoes rocked the ship, sending everyone flying about the Bridge. Voyager suddenly listed to Port and the groaning of hull plates could be heard.

"Captain, it is my duty to tell you that in the situation we are now in we must abandon ship. He will keep firing until Voyager is no more, said Tuvok. As if to underscore that statement, more explosions ripped at the Vessel and you could almost hear Voyager's cries of pain as the hull groaned louder.

Janeway looked up at Tuvok, defeat and depression filing across her face. She looked at Chakotay and then once again at Tuvok. Slowly she nodded her head.

"Notify all departments to prepare to abandon ship, but don't enter the pods yet." She looked around at the Bridge staff. "All of you leave and go to your assigned areas. Help anyone who needs assistance." The staff immediately left their posts and exited the bridge.

Chakotay moved up to her position. "Captain, you have to leave also. I'll help you, you're injured," he said, noting blood streaming down her face.

"No, go ahead Chakotay," she said softly, "I'm all right."

"I'm not leaving you Kathryn," he said as he gently took hold of her arm. She shook her head and looked around in frustration at the now empty bridge.

"Kathryn we should leave," Chakotay said quietly. "Better to live and fight another day. Maybe once we abandon ship he'll break off his attack. Please, don't try to be a martyr in this. It's foolish."

"All right, Chakotay," she said in resignation. "We'll head for a pod and . . ." Just then three more vicious explosions ripped through Voyager and Janeway realized she could no longer delay the inevitable and pressing her Com badge called out "All hands, abandon ship. I say again, all hands abandon ship!"

She turned once more to look around the Bridge, making sure everyone had left. Just as she looked at Chakotay a massive explosion ripped through the Bridge, sending debris and parts of consoles flying through the air. Sparks showered everywhere followed by dense smoke, and ceiling beams started crashing down around them.

"Kathryn!" yelled Chakotay. "Look out!"

Before Kathryn could even look up a beam crashed down upon her and as she cried out and fell to the deck, it fell on top of her thighs and was immediately followed by another beam landing cross-angled over the first.

Chakotay, who had ducked down by a console as the beams started coming down, instantly went to her side. Kneeling down he felt her pulse and realizing she was just dazed tried lifting the beams. It was impossible and he frantically looked around the Bridge for something to give him leverage.

"Chakotay," said Janeway in a weak voice. "Get out of here. Save yourself."

He knelt down and said, "I'm not leaving you Kathryn. I'll find a way to get these beams off you."

She reached out a hand to his arm. "That's an order Commander. Leave this Bridge now! You have to look after the crew."

Chakotay shook his head. "I'm sorry Captain, but I'm not leaving." Then with an impish half-smile asked, "What are you going to do throw me in the Brig?"

Kathryn smiled. "Even in life or death you try to make your humor soften the blow don't you?"

"It's one way. But I'm not going to leave until I get you out of here."

Just then Tuvok trotted into the Bridge entrance. "Captain, Commander, we must . . ."He stopped upon seeing the situation and quickly moved down to them.

"Help me Tuvok. See if we can get this cross beam off the Captain!" yelled Chakotay.

The two of them strained mightily at the top beam but barely moved it. Tuvok found a small support beam to use as leverage and slipping it under the top beam put all his weight on it while Chakotay also pushed with all his strength. The ship suddenly lurched from another explosion somewhere deep inside Voyager and with Tuvok's leverage and Chakotay's pushing the cross beam rolled off.

The two men then set about trying to lift the beam lying across Kathryn's legs. After two tries, and again using the small beam as leverage, they realized it was useless. They needed several men to get that massive beam off her legs.

"Both of you, leave this Bridge now!" commanded Janeway in as strong a voice as she could muster. "There isn't time to bring anyone back here and besides it's too dangerous. Leave, that's an order!"

Chakotay and Tuvok looked at one another and it was obvious that Tuvok saw the hopelessness of the Captain's situation. Chakotay nodded his head at Tuvok and started off the Bridge.

"Live long and Prosper Captain," said Tuvok as he looked down at his friend, then followed Chakotay off the Bridge.

Outside the door Chakotay said, "I'm not leaving Kathryn, Tuvok. Make me a promise that you'll gather everyone together at some point, find a ship and get them home."

Tuvok looked deep into Chakotay's eyes and saw the determination. "Are you sure this is your final decision Commander?"

Chakotay gave him a firm "Yes, very sure, Tuvok," as he glanced back at
Kathryn lying helplessly pinned on the deck.

Tuvok nodded in understanding. "I will do my best Commander." He then held his hand up in the traditional Vulcan gesture and said, "Live long and prosper, Commander. May the Captain's and your Spirits find happiness."

"Thank you Tuvok," said Chakotay as he clapped him on the shoulder. "Now go, get out of here."

Tuvok started to turn then said, "The nearest Pod is still vacant, plus the Flyer, although covered with Beams, might be flyable." With that he turned and without looking back ran up the corridor.

Chakotay turned and walked back onto the Bridge. As he knelt down by Kathryn she looked at him, a startled expression on her face. "I gave you an order, Commander."

"Sorry, your orders don't hold water anymore. I told you on New Earth I would always be at your side and I meant it, Kathryn."

Her face softened as she realized she could not persuade him to leave. "Yes, you did," she said quietly. "I remember." She looked at him for quite a few moments, with the only sound the groaning of metal and the spitting of live wires. "But I don't want you to die," she said softly.

"I couldn't live without you, Kathryn," he said quietly as he adjusted his position and lay down beside her, propping his head up with his hand.

Kathryn reached her hand to his face. "My angry warrior," she said softly. Then she turned her face away and glanced around the Bridge. "It's been a good ship, a good home to us. I hate to see her die this way."

"Voyager brought you to me," he said. "And for that I love this ship almost as much as . . ."

Kathryn turned her head quickly and looked at him as he finished with "almost as much as I love you, Kathryn."

Again she placed her hand gently on his cheek, while a single tear escaped and slowly trickled onto her face. "I know. I kept us apart and for what? To die without . . ." and she stopped and closed her eyes.

"I understand," said Chakotay. "You had to do that, don't concern yourself with that decision now."

Another explosion ripped into Voyager and Chakotay instinctively rose over her and protected her with his body. As quiet again ensued he looked down at her and smiled. "Gotcha right where I want you."

Kathryn laughed for the first time. Then becoming quiet she looked into his soft brown eyes and said huskily, "Then I suggest you kiss me, Commander. It's likely the only chance you'll have."

"Is that an order, Captain?" he asked as he slowly lowered his head.

"Yes," she murmured as Chakotay's lips softly covered hers.

Drawing back Chakotay looked at her and with his thumb wiped the single tear off her cheek. Kathryn half-smiled and said, "That was better than all my fantasies."

Chakotay smiled. "You fantasized about kissing me?"

"All the time," she said with a giggle. Turning serious she raised her hand and gently traced his lips with her finger. "I guess its confession time. I love you Chakotay, and have for a long time."

"Now you tell me," he said looking around at their predicament. Then they both just looked into each other's eyes until finally Chakotay lay down beside her again, one arm across her chest in a protective, yet loving manner.

"Chakotay, do you remember the time on New Earth during that Ion storm?"

"I remember everything about New Earth, Kathryn."

"I felt so safe in your arms under that table, even though I was screaming about all my experiments crashing down."

He smiled. "I never wanted to let you go."

She looked at him. "Tell me a story Chakotay. I don't like any silence right now. Tell me the Angry Warrior Legend again."

And while Chakotay recited the Legend she looked steadily into his eyes. When he finished she smiled and said, "Was that really an Ancient Legend?"

"No, but it made it easier to say," then he smiled and added, "It made it easier to tell you that I love you Kathryn Janeway, more than life itself." He bent his head and kissed her again, softly, gently, and yet passionately.

As he drew back she smiled but before she could say anything Voyager lurched and turned slightly on her side, then dropped a few meters. Chakotay held her tight until the motion stopped.

"Feels like we are going down a little, doesn't it," she said.

"I think so. I doubt we have much more than inertia moving the ship anymore. Wonder how long it will take to reach the atmosphere and start to burn."

Kathryn was silent for a few minutes. "Somehow I never envisioned myself burning to death," she said. "I always thought I would either go out in a big explosion or die of old age sitting in a rocking chair."

Chakotay chuckled. "And I didn't expect to live long in the Maquis. Guess we were both wrong."

"Tell me another story Chakotay," she whispered. "Keep talking to me."

Chakotay talked and told Legends for the next two hours as Voyager groaned, lurched and twisted in her death throes.

Suddenly an explosion somewhere on the ship tipped Voyager almost on its side and sent Kathryn and Chakotay sliding down into Tom's console. Just as suddenly the ship righted its self, but in those movements, the beam became lodged on the Helm, lifting a few inches off Kathryn's legs.

Chakotay saw this and instantly scrambled to his feet, took Kathryn's shoulders and pulled her from under the beam. "I can't stand Chakotay," she groaned. "My legs feel dead. That beam cut off all circulation, plus I think both are broken. Please leave and save yourself."

Chakotay knelt down and pulled Kathryn to a sitting position. "I told you before and I'm not going to say it again, I'm not leaving you, so use your energy to help me get you up on my shoulder. I'll use a Fireman's carry to get us to a pod . . . now put your arms around my neck." With Kathryn's hands interlaced behind his neck, Chakotay lifted Kathryn as much as he could, flexed his knees and placing his shoulder at her waist quickly stood straight up. As Kathryn fell onto him she screamed in pain.

"Sorry" said Chakotay as he turned, and after getting his balance started off the Bridge. Moving as fast as he could down the corridor he suddenly stopped and faced a nearby panel and started tapping at it.

"What are you doing," moaned Kathryn.

"I'm initiating a site to site transport to the Flyer. When the ship tipped that time maybe those beams Tuvok mentioned fell off the Flyer."

The shimmering started and they reappeared in the Flyer. As gently as he could Chakotay lay Kathryn down on the floor, but Kathryn still screamed out in pain. Moving quickly to the pilot's seat he said a prayer and started up the engines. They roared to life and he slowly lifted the shuttle off the deck and moved it back and forth a few times. This caused the two remaining beams lying across the Flyer's hull to fall off, seemingly leaving the ship clear.

"Great Spirits help us," Chakotay muttered to himself as he tapped at the panel, then calling out "Here goes, Kathryn," the Flyer shot forward through the force field and out into space away from Voyager.

"We're clear Kathryn!" he yelled, and as he looked back he caught sight of her trying to pull herself forward with her hands.

"Chakotay help me. I want to see Voyager one last time," she said as she groaned in her efforts to move.

Setting the ship on 'Auto' he moved back to her. "This is going to hurt," he said as he grabbed her under the arms and pulled her forward. Kathryn screamed with the pain, then gritting her teeth moaned, "Put me in the seat a moment, Chakotay."

Despite intense pain she sat there and stared at Voyager. "Goodbye my friend," she whispered. Looking back at him she nodded. "I don't want to see her die Chakotay."

Nodding, he first stepped to the rear of the Flyer and after tapping a panel, a section moved out and down, forming a bench. Despite the intense pain Kathryn again lay on his shoulder and he managed to get her back to the makeshift bed and lay her down, found the Medical Kit and started scanning her legs with the Medical TriCorder.

"You're right. Both femurs are broken, with the right one crushed, plus there is severe damage to the muscles and nerves of both legs, with the right leg ten times worse then the left."

"Take care of them later," she whispered. "Are the Maradi around anywhere? They seemed to have stopped shooting at Voyager some hours ago."

Chakotay moved back to the cockpit. "Sensors don't show them anywhere." Then a horror-stricken look crossed his face as he added, "I hope they're not after the pods."

"Just get us out of here then," moaned Kathryn. "Get ahead of Voyager, put it out of sound and vision . . . please," she said softly.

Chakotay understood and increased the speed of the Flyer until it was well away from Voyager. Setting it on Auto he moved back to Kathryn and rummaged in the Medical Kit until he found the Osteo Regenerator.

Looking at her he saw the intense pain creasing her face. "Kathryn I'm not a surgeon. I'm not sure how, or if, I can repair all this damage to your legs."

She nodded. "I know. Just do the best you can. Even though I have a lot of pain it's weird, because I keep having the feeling I don't have any legs."

Chakotay looked at her and swallowed. "You don't know how close I came to getting a kit and amputating your legs to get you out of there, but I knew you wouldn't want to live that way."

Kathryn looked at him and gave a half-smile. "I actually thought of it myself, but you're right. That would keep me from being a Captain . . . put me behind a desk somewhere and I couldn't have that."

Chakotay by now had gathered all the instruments and hypos he felt he needed and after injecting her with medication to hopefully dull the pain, he commenced working on Kathryn's left leg.

* * * * *

A week went by and during this time Chakotay would set the Flyer on Auto three times a day and try to repair Kathryn's legs. Following each treatment he would massage both legs lightly, even though this light touch caused her tremendous pain.

"I don't understand why we haven't seen any pods, Chakotay," she said one day as she grunted through the massage. "The Flyer is faster, where do you suppose they are? We haven't passed any planets have we?"

"Well, not according to the sensors. We haven't seen a thing in the past seven days." Finishing the massage he set the kit aside and helped Kathryn sit up. She was still unable to put even the slightest weight on her legs, so he gently picked her up and sat her in the chair behind the pilot's seat, then sat on the floor beside her.

As he looked up at her he smiled. "We'll find them Kathryn. I bet the first planet we come across Tuvok has managed to gather them all there."

"I hope so." She looked away a moment as she absently rubbed at her leg. "I just hope . . ." then looked at Chakotay, pain and worry in her expression.

"Don't think that way. Why would the Maradi chase after the pods? Voyager itself was more valuable to them, yet after we were disabled and the pods took off, they left. The Maradi probably felt the pods would eventually crash or the occupants die from lack of food"

Just as Kathryn was about to answer beeping erupted from the cockpit's sensor panel. Instantly Chakotay rose and moved forward and as he sat in the pilots seat, said, "Sensors show a planet 800,000 kilometers ahead Kathryn." He punched a few panels on the console and then looked back with a smile. "It's M class."

It wasn't long before they were orbiting the planet. Chakotay determined the inhabitants were pre warp, and both were not only highly disappointed but also confused that sensors did not show any Starfleet signatures of Pods nor human life signs. "Sensors show a deserted area and I'm going to land there. We need time to work on those legs of yours." Kathryn merely nodded her head.

Shortly Chakotay maneuvered the Flyer toward a low grassy plain with tall trees on one edge and deftly slipped the Flyer between two of the largest evergreens. He also had the ship facing the plain, so if they needed a fast get-a-way they had a straight shot out. Chakotay was also effectively hiding the ship from any possible enemy.

"See Kathryn," he said with a big grin. "I don't always crash the shuttles!" Kathryn laughed heartily.

After opening the hatch he cautiously stepped outside, his phaser drawn and set to stun while he explored a wide area around the ship. Finding no danger he returned to get Kathryn and as he lifted her said, "Great news! There's a nice little creek a little ways down that bank with a patch of grass nearby. Grab that blanket and I can lay you on it. This fresh air is going to be great for both of us."

* * * * *

Days went by as Chakotay worked on Kathryn's damaged legs. Each morning he would carry her out into the sunshine and while she lay on the blanket would use the Laser Scalpel to try to shave, shape and mend the crushed bone. Following that he would use the Osteo Regenerator, the Dermal Regenerator and finally the Muscle Stimulator to work on the muscles, tendons, ligaments and nerves. Once that was finished he massaged both legs, at first gently, but gradually applying more pressure.

There were some days when Kathryn's pain was so great during these treatments he was forced to administer a Hypo Sedative, knocking her out while he tended to her. After ten days he had the left leg at 75% but the right leg was only 50% healed and Kathryn was still unable to stand. Chakotay was quite concerned about the right leg and silently cursed himself for not being more skillful in healing her.

As for personal hygiene, each afternoon when the day was warm he would carry her down to the stream so she could bathe. When he first sat her in the water she would scream at the shock of the extreme cold, and they would both giggle, but eventually her body adjusted to that cold temperature. At first he would remove all her clothes except the bra and underpants and sit her in the edge of the water, but that only meant she had to wrap herself in a towel while Chakotay dried those garments, so on the third day Kathryn said that was ridiculous, this was no time for modesty and all her clothes were removed.

Neither she nor Chakotay felt any embarrassment at her being nude after the first day of this procedure, nor was there any lustful feeling. It was part of the healing process and both understood this. Chakotay himself bathed while Kathryn was napping, but she said he might as well bathe at the same time, thus giving him a chance to also rest. Although he never complained she knew he was not sleeping well on the hard floor of the Flyer.

A second week went by and Chakotay continued the three times daily treatments. At last the left leg started showing dramatic improvement and registered at 90% healed and when in the shuttle on a flat hard surface she was starting to put a little weight on that leg. The right leg, however, was still a tremendous problem and Chakotay fussed, fumed and constantly apologized for taking so long, for not getting things right, until one day Kathryn took his face in both her hands and looking deep into his eyes said, "No more of that Chakotay. You are doing a wonderful job. I know you are not a surgeon, but if it weren't for you I'd be dead now. So I don't want to hear your apologies anymore about not doing a good job." Chakotay gave a rather apologetic yet relieved smile, picked her up and carried her to their favorite spot down by the stream, where after a few minutes they both fell asleep.

During the third week, after not much more progress on the crushed bone,
Chakotay decided on a drastic measure to try and repair this damage. He had been studying the Medical Manual and as Kathryn lay dozing on the blanket he applied a light sedative to the area, took the Laser Scalpel and cut deeply to the bone. Then fitting an inflatable splint around her thigh, said, "This is going to hurt Kathryn," and quickly put the splint at full pressure, causing Kathryn to jerk awake, scream, and then faint from the pain. Picking up the Osteo-Regenerator he ran it over the Femur bone, using the pressure from the splint and the Regenerator to fuse the bone together in what he hoped would be a stronger bond. After several minutes of this, he started treatment on the exposed muscles with the Dermal Regenerator. Finally he sat back, sweat running down his cheeks and looked at Kathryn who was beginning to stir.

Reaching out he took hold of her hand and as she turned and faced him, gave her a rueful smile. "Guess I should have applied a Hypo Sedative first."

Her face still registered pain but she smiled back at him. "Maybe. What did you do? . . . I feel tremendous pressure on that leg."

"I still have the splint on. I tried a cut and fuse, based on some of my reading. I'll release the pressure in a few more minutes."

She just nodded and closed her eyes. Twenty minutes later Chakotay started a very slow release of the pressure splint, until at last he removed it from her leg, smiled and said, "Now for the part you enjoy the most . . . the massage."

Kathryn rolled her eyes, and then laughed. "I can stand it if you can," she said.

The next day after checking the leg with the TriCorder Chakotay smiled. "It seems to have helped a little Kathryn. The reading now shows it's at 81%. Let's see if you can stand up and put a little weight on it." The result made both smile. Although still experiencing a great deal of pain, Kathryn for the first time in over a month was finally able to put a small amount of weight on that right leg.

As the third week neared its end, Kathryn was able to hobble around for short periods of time inside the shuttle, with Chakotay holding on to her, lest she fall. After a day of this, Chakotay changed the routine by having her walk around the outside of the shuttle despite the uneven ground, pain and discomfort. She lay exhausted on the ground after the first trip, her face bathed in sweat and a deep frown etched in her face from the throbbing pain emanating from both legs. That night, for the first time, Kathryn mentioned they should get ready to leave the planet.

"One more week of treatment Kathryn," said Chakotay. "You can barely walk, and can't walk at all without my help."

Reluctantly she agreed, knowing Chakotay was right. She needed this time and exercise, which couldn't be done if they were flying. So the treatments continued three times a day, but the walks began to extend down to the stream as well as short trips within the meadow. Her limp was pronounced and the leg still hurt tremendously, but as she had said, "I don't care about having a limp, Chakotay. You have me on my feet now."

That afternoon, after they had finished bathing, they lay on the blanket, only a towel over each of them as their clothes lay drying in the sun. They talked and laughed about their experiences on Voyager. Kathryn suddenly asked, "Chakotay do you remember our first argument?"

He chuckled. "Of course! It was over your wanting to work a deal with the Borg and I couldn't believe you wanted to do that, especially after my experience with them."

"I never did tell you . . ." and she hesitated so long Chakotay raised up, turned on his side and looked at her.

"I never apologized to you about your disobeying my orders when you found out what the Borg was up to," she said softly.

He smiled. "We were both right and both wrong Kathryn. No need to apologize. Besides," he said as he reached out and tenderly touched her face, "It was a long time ago." Then, his eyes twinkling, added "Anyway I forgave you."

She laughed out loud and raising up slapped at his shoulder. "You're terrible, but I still love you," then lay back down and while looking up at him saw his eyes so full of love for her it almost took her breath away. It was the first time the word love had been mentioned since they had been lying together on the deck of Voyager waiting to die.

As they looked at one another Kathryn slowly reached up and gently touched his face, and then whispered, "Make love to me Chakotay."

His eyes widened in surprise. "Kathryn?"

"I want to consummate our love here and now. I want to join with you and be one."

"Are you sure?" he said softly. "Your leg . . . I might hurt it."

"I'm very sure. Please?"

His heart hammered inside his chest as he looked at this woman he loved so much. Slowly be bent his head and kissed her and that is all it took for their feelings, their love, their passion to overrule any hesitancy they might have had.

They made love, gently, slowly and yet passionately, at last riding the wave of the oncoming orgasm until both cried out each other's name as they sailed over the precipice with Kathryn's vagina shuddering in it's release of pleasure even as he filled her with his stream. They lay there, both breathing heavily, their bodies covered in perspiration for a few minutes, until at last Chakotay started to move.

Kathryn moaned and tightened her arms holding him in place. He raised his head and with a dismayed expression, looked at her. "Your leg, I hurt it didn't I?"

She smiled and gave him a kiss. "Yes it hurt a few times, but the love and pleasure you were giving me overwhelmed any pain . . . it was worth it, every last minute was worth it." Then she kissed him again. "We are one Sweetheart. I give myself to you heart and soul. I have no ship to command anymore, I am just Kathryn Janeway who is so in love with you. I want to spend the rest of my life with you regardless what the future holds."

Tears burst out of Chakotay's eyes as he listened and he finally ducked his head down into her neck. "Oh Great Spirits, how I have longed to hear those words," he said in a muffled tone.

Finally, in fear of the pain he might be causing her leg, he left her and heard Kathryn moan at the loss. He smiled and gently stroked her face with the back of his fingers. "I guess we need a second bath now."

"Tomorrow we won't bathe until afterwards," she said with a suggestive giggle as she sat up.

Chakotay grinned in delight, then helped her to her feet and as he led her down to the stream they both started chuckling as Chakotay found himself limping right along with her.

At the end of the fourth week, it was decided they would leave the planet the next day. Kathryn's left leg was now at 99% and the right at 83% healed, but it was obvious to both the healing had progressed as far as it was going to; the legs just weren't going to get any better without a real Medical Doctor.

So the next morning Chakotay administered one last treatment, they bathed and left the planet, resuming their journey towards the Alpha Quadrant while still continuing to search for the Voyager crew.

* * * * *

As the Flyer left the unknown planet behind, Kathryn stared back at it with a wistful look on her face. It was where she and Chakotay had consummated their love and he had taken care of her with such love and devotion it made tears well in her eyes. She would always remember that planet.

As the day wore on she made an effort to walk back and forth in the ship, but in the space of the Flyer it only amounted to a few steps forward and a few steps back . . . and rather boring. However she kept at it, knowing it was the only way to help make her leg stronger. Chakotay had also devised some exercises, and after setting the Flyer on Auto, helped her with them, calling them 'resistance' exercises whereby she had to push or pull against his resisting that move by applying pressure in the opposite direction. She laughed at the term he gave it saying, "It's a wonder you didn't name them the 'Maquis' exercises instead of resistance."

He chuckled and said, "Well at least you have a sense of humor about it." Following the exercises he again followed his routine of using the Regenerator on the muscles and tendons and followed this with massage. However, he abruptly changed tactics here, using deep massage now, which proved quite painful for Kathryn and she was always relieved when the session was over, quipping she was glad to see him go back to the pilot's chair and stop hurting her.

Two weeks went by and Kathryn's walk became a nervous, irritated pacing, almost, as Chakotay termed it, "Like a caged animal."

"Well I am . . . we are caged," she responded. "We're locked in this shuttle with no planets, nothing, Chakotay. It's boring! You surely have to agree with that."

"I know . . . but I'm afraid there isn't much we can do about it."

"If we could at least find another planet, something, anything!" she complained. "And what about the Pods, sweetheart? They weren't at our planet and we even haven't found or even seen one!"

Chakotay smiled at her. "Our planet huh? Replacing New Earth is it?"

She chuckled. "No it will never replace New Earth, but it is where you and I . . ." Suddenly she walked up beside him and bending down kissed him passionately.

"You better stop that," he said huskily, "Or we'll both end up on the floor."

"Well at least it would be doing something," she said laughing. "But what about the Pods honey, what do you think happened to them and why didn't they land at 'our' planet?" she said, emphasizing the word our. "You don't suppose the Maradi really did shoot them down?"

"Hardly think so. Sensors would have picked up signs of their debris and so far we haven't seen anything." Then seeing her rub her leg he said, "Why don't you go back and take a nap. You've been on your feet almost since we left 'our' planet. Give the walking a rest for today." She nodded and said she might as well and after giving him a kiss on the cheek walked back to her bunk and lay down.

Ten more days went by without the sensors picking up any signs of planets or pods. Chakotay looked back at Kathryn. She was getting very cranky being cooped up in this small ship and had snapped at him yesterday, then immediately threw her arms around him and apologized profusely. In reality he probably wasn't much better.

"I sure hope we come to a planet soon," he called back to her. "We need to replenish our supplies as well as pick up a few items for the Flyer. It's not going to last forever without repairs and we need to be prepared, not to mention getting out of this ship and moving around," said Chakotay.

Kathryn nodded absently as she lay on the floor doing another of Chakotay's exercises, which consisted of lying on her back with her legs in the air and moving them as if pedaling something. He moved back and sat on the edge of her bunk, but as he reached for the Med Kit the Flyer's Sensors started beeping.

Quickly moving forward he checked the console and called out to Kathryn as she struggled to her feet, "Kathryn, sensors are picking up a ship one million kilometers ahead."

"It's not Maradi is it?" she asked as she moved up beside him.

"Can't tell yet. It's too far to get any energy readings with the Flyer's systems."

"Be careful sweetheart. If it's a Maradi they'll shoot us down like dogs."

"I know. I think I'll move into a higher flight path for now."

"Good idea," said Kathryn as she strained to spot it, yet knew that was impossible.

Quite a while later, Chakotay reported he had partial visual but the ship was still too far away and the Flyer's magnification wasn't strong enough to see it.

"What are the energy readouts?" asked Kathryn.

"Nothing. No readout at all. It must be a derelict ship."

Cautiously Chakotay moved the Flyer closer and finally reached a point where he was able to bring the unknown ship onto the View Screen by using their ship's magnification.

His eyes widened and as he turned and looked at Kathryn, he saw she was staring with her mouth agape.

"Voyager," they both whispered in shocked unison.

"How . . . ?" asked Kathryn, not believing her eyes.

"Looks like it's just been drifting on its own inertia," said Chakotay.

They both stared at it with unbelieving eyes. The hull had many breeches that were visible, it listed to Starboard, and by rights it still shouldn't be flying, but there it was . . . right in front of them!

"She didn't want to die. She refused to die and wants to go home," whispered Kathryn, tears streaming down her cheeks.

Chakotay ran a sensor sweep over the entire ship as he cautiously moved above Voyager. "No life signs, no life support, no energy signals of any kind."

Kathryn stared down at her beloved ship, unable to stem the tears, and turning her head silently looked at Chakotay.

He knew without a word what she wanted him to do and nodded. "I'll put on an Environmental Suit and you can beam me down to the Bridge for a look around."

A short time later Chakotay had the suit on except for the helmet. "I'll keep my Comm Badge open at all times honey and you keep the Transporter locked on me as well."

"No need to worry about that. Please be careful and keep talking every second, telling me exactly what you see," she said as she leaned forward and gave him a kiss before helping put his helmet on. As the helmet clicked and sealed into place, Chakotay smiled at Kathryn.

"Sure glad you kissed me before I put this on," he teased.

Swatting him playfully on the shoulder Kathryn limped forward and sat down. Looking back she asked, "Ready?"

"Ready . . . Energize," and Chakotay shimmered out of view.

Materializing on the Bridge Chakotay winced as he looked around. The Bridge was in a shambles, much worse than when he and Kathryn were just lying there waiting to die. Conduits, beams, wire, plasma relays, pieces of equipment and consoles lay or hung from every conceivable position. Carefully climbing over several beams he headed for the OPS Station.

"Chakotay! Talk to me, you're not saying anything . . . are you all right?" came Kathryn's worried voice.

"I'm here, sweetheart," he said. "It's pretty bad and without gravitational systems it's very difficult to move around all this stuff . . . it's laying everywhere. I'm at Harry's station now, but it's all smashed up. In fact," he said as he punched at a lifeless panel, "It's dead, nothing online. I'll have to head to Engineering and take a look there."

"Don't even try the Turbolift. If the latches release, it would be a free fall."

Chakotay chuckled. "And not a fun ride. Don't worry, but the Jeffries Tubes will take forever in this suit. Can you transport me to Engineering?"

"Locking on to Engineering coordinates now. Ready?"

Chakotay stood and shook his head, feeling lightheaded for some reason. When he didn't answer Kathryn shouted, "Chakotay! Are you there?"

"I'm here," he said. "Just felt lightheaded for a minute. Okay energize."

When he materialized in engineering the first thing he saw was a skeleton and involuntarily drew in his breath.

"What? What is it sweetheart?" called out Kathryn's voice.

"A skeleton. It must be one of the fatalities before we abandoned ship." Chakotay looked closer. "It's Ensign Murray."

"Oh dear," said Kathryn. "Well, leave him; we'll give him a proper burial later on. There are probably others . . ." She hesitated a moment as she took a breath. "What do you see? Is the Warp Core intact?"

"Appears to be, but . . . I just can't believe what I'm seeing down here. Everything, absolutely everything is damaged. Honey do you know where B'Elanna kept the extra equipment and supplies? We are obviously going to need new Neural Gel Packs in every system before we can even think of getting anything functioning again."

Chakotay could hear Kathryn's smile as she answered, "Do you really think we can get Voyager repaired . . . enough to get us to the next planet anyway?"

"It might be possible. If we can get Life Support and the Graviton Systems online we would be able to work down here without wearing these damn suits." Chakotay was now breathing quite heavily and Kathryn noticed this.

"Chakotay I'm going to beam you back to the Flyer. You sound exhausted."

"I am. I'm having trouble breathing. I think there is something wrong with this suit and having to lock the boots down on every step because of no gravity makes it worse. Before you beam me back . . . do you know where B'Elanna kept the Gel Packs?"

"Uhm . . . I believe down in the Cargo Bay, Section 18. There might be some crates or barrels that have some extra packs."

"Beam me there and I'll take a quick look, then that will be all for today," he said as he leaned against a console.

"Energizing," said Kathryn and Chakotay found himself in the Cargo Bay. Looking around he spotted Section 18 and struggled that way, stopping three times in that short distance to hang onto something. At last he was at the area and after poking around found a barrel marked Neural. Opening it he smiled. They were Gel Packs!

"Chakotay?" called out Kathryn. "Keep talking. Whenever you get quiet . . . Your breathing is becoming very labored. Did you find any Gel Packs?"

"Found three barrels of them Kathryn. Remind me to congratulate B'Elanna when we find her on being a hoarder!" He heard Kathryn laugh as he added, "Lock onto me and one of the barrels and beam us back to Engineering, and then bring me home, I've had it."

"I agree. I want you back here. Energizing and let me know when to beam you back to the Flyer."

Kathryn waited a few minutes but when she didn't hear from Chakotay she called out to him. Getting no response she immediately locked onto his Comm Badge and beamed him back. As Chakotay's inert form materialized on the deck of the Flyer, Kathryn quickly moved to him and helped remove his helmet. Chakotay lay gasping for air and took several deep breaths before he could speak. "Definitely something wrong with this suit," he mumbled.

Kathryn looked at all the connections then nodded as she looked at him, fright in her eyes. "This oxygen connector has a hairline crack in it. The air was leaking out."

Once out of the suit Chakotay sank limply back to the deck and leaned against Kathryn's bunk. "Put it aside so I don't wear that one again. We can probably repair that connector later."

With difficulty because of her bad leg, Kathryn managed to sit down on the floor beside Chakotay. "Do you honestly think we have a chance of getting Voyager running again?"

As he nodded his head he slipped his arm around her shoulders and pulled her to him. "I really do honey. We will get Voyager running again. After all, she kept flying, kept looking for us . . . it's the least we can do."

Kathryn smiled as she snuggled her head onto Chakotay's shoulder. "It won't change anything," she said quietly.

"Wont change what?" asked Chakotay frowning.

"Us . . . we . . ." she said. "No matter what happens - if we get Voyager flying again, if we find the crew, if I become Captain Janeway again. I will still love you and nothing will change our situation."

Chakotay looked down and found Kathryn's blue eyes looking up at him, filled with love. He smiled, gently kissed her, and pulling her even tighter to him whispered, "Thank you sweetheart. I love you so much that I doubt I could hide it anyway." Both chuckled and quietly sat there, their arms around one another and content in their proclaimed love.

* * * * *

The next morning Chakotay groaned as he rose from his bed on the floor and saw Kathryn was already up and sitting in the pilot's chair. "How did you get over there without my hearing you?" he asked. Moaning again as he got to his feet, he moved forward and knelt beside her. As she turned and looked at him her eyes were gleaming and he instantly knew.

"You are going down there today aren't you? Despite how unsafe it is, despite my objections to wait a couple of days, you are going down."

"I have to sweetheart," she said taking hold of his hand. "I have to see her, to once again be on that Bridge. Please . . . I promise I'll be careful." She smiled as she made the plea.

Chakotay grinned. "And I'm willing to bet you have already initialized the computer to respond to our commands from Voyager about beaming back here."

She giggled as she nodded her head and answered, "Yes, while you were still asleep."

"It's going to be very hard with your leg and no gravity down there. I insist the minute you feel tired you beam back. It's going to be hard for me, too, and I was thinking, after my experience yesterday, well, we will just spend short periods of time on Voyager and come back to rest periodically. Agreed?"

Kathryn smiled broadly. "You said 'we'. Oh sweetheart thank you and I agree short work periods would be best. I also promise to come back when I am tired. See how you are affecting me," she said with a laugh.

"Okay," he said with a big smile. "Let's get something to eat and start to work," and as he started to turn away, he looked back and quickly added, "And we test those other suits before we beam down."

After eating they not only tested the suits, but also made trial runs on beaming to and from Voyager with voice commands only, with Chakotay running the test on himself. Everything seemed functional, so Chakotay helped Kathryn into an Environmental Suit, but before placing their helmets on Chakotay kissed her.

"Don't try to do too much," he asserted. "We'll transport first to the Bridge, I know you want to see that, then to Engineering to install new Gel Packs. Agreed?"

Kathryn nodded her head, her eyes gleaming, and her expression anxious. After sealing the helmets in place Chakotay nodded to Kathryn, giving her the prerogative to transport herself to Voyager.

As they materialized Chakotay kept a sharp watch on Kathryn and saw the horror fill her eyes as she glanced around at the destruction. Looking over at Chakotay she said, "It's unbelievable. You are right, Voyager shouldn't be flying." Reaching out she rubbed her hand affectionately on the console near where her command chair should be. "We'll fix you up old friend" she whispered, "We'll get you up and running again, I promise." Turning she nodded her head at Chakotay and he gave the command to transport to Engineering.

Once there both started working on the vital Life Support System, first installing Neural Gel Packs and followed that with taking all damaged parts out of the central unit, virtually stripping the system bare. Within thirty minutes Kathryn was exhausted and barely able to stand, but tried to keep working. Chakotay finally stopped what he was doing and looked at her.

Before he could say anything, she said, accompanied by a grudging smile, "I know, I know, but it hasn't even been an hour yet."

"Without gravity the work is a thousand times harder, Kathryn. I'm tired too. Tell you what, let's both rest a few minutes, but I really think you should go back."

"Please Chakotay, just a few more minutes. I can see a repair I can make, a 'jury-rigging' repair, but it might help."

"All right, but after that back you go, "he asserted in a firm voice.

She nodded, knowing full well she would hold Chakotay back in his work as he would worry and watch her. After she completed what she wanted to do she told Chakotay she was going back to the Flyer. He affectionately placed a gloved hand on her visor and nodded.

"After you get back, transport me to the Cargo Bay again. I'll see what other equipment I can find."

Shortly, and in a very tired voice, Kathryn hailed, "I'm back on the Flyer Chakotay. Rest while I get out of this suit and then I'll transport you."

Soon Chakotay was transported to the Cargo Bay and managed to find and gather various equipment in a general area, thanking B'Elanna under his breath each time he found a piece of valuable equipment.

"Kathryn, are you there?"

"What? Oh yes, I'm here Chakotay. I almost fell asleep."

"Well I'm standing beside a pile of equipment. Lock on to it and move it to Engineering, will you?"

"All right, then I'm bringing you back here. That's enough for this morning."

"I have to agree."

Soon Chakotay was back on the Flyer and once out of the suit he put his arms around Kathryn. "We'll fix Voyager sweetheart. We'll keep your promise."

Kathryn nodded as she laid her head on his chest. "And I know now what you meant yesterday when you said it was hard work. I felt exhausted within ten minutes. It's going to take us a long time at this rate."

"I know, but if we get life support on line we won't have to wear the helmets and once the environmental and gravitational system is repaired we will be able to work much more efficiently. I want you to lay down now and rest, okay?"

She looked up at him with her deep blue eyes and just stared. As Chakotay looked back he suddenly smiled. "Now?"

She smiled and said, "Yes. I love you so much. You saved my life and now we've found Voyager. I just want to be close to you . . . do you mind?"

"Why would I mind making love to you," he said as they moved back to the bunk and lay down.

* * * * *

Chakotay transported down to Voyager three times a day for the next two days, with Kathryn beaming down for an hour in the morning and the same in the afternoon. It was hard, slow and tedious work, but finally Chakotay told Kathryn he felt sure he would have Life Support on line the next day.

After a good luck kiss Chakotay and Kathryn beamed down the next morning and just before Kathryn was scheduled to go back to the Flyer Chakotay rolled out from under the panel and smiled.

"Try it Kathryn."

She limped to the console and tapped different panels. Lights flashed, flickered, and came on! She set Engineering, Bridge and the Cargo Bay for Maximum and waited. Slowly the readings started to register and she looked at Chakotay and smiled. It was working! Life Support was coming online. Voyager was coming to life!

"We'll just have these three areas for now. With all the hull breeches we can't turn it on for the whole ship yet," she stated.

Chakotay removed his helmet and took a breath, then smiled. "It's a little thin yet, but we do have oxygen. Let's head back and rest and knowing my Captain, you can start making a list of priorities."

Kathryn laughed. "You know me so well my love."

Back on the Flyer both were excited. They agreed the Gravitational System was the next priority. That would make movement as well as making repairs so much easier. Once gravity was reestablished they would try to get the Force Fields established thus blocking off the hull breaches and able to extend the Life Support System to the whole ship. Those two repairs would make a huge difference, not only in moving from area to area, but in the feeling that Voyager was 'coming to life'. Repairing the breeches themselves would then be much later, as the next important repair function would be that of getting the Engines online. However, both Chakotay and Kathryn had to keep reminding themselves -- one thing at a time.

Chakotay beamed back after lunch and started work on the Graviton system, extending his work to two hours, which worried Kathryn very much. He still had to wear that cumbersome space suit for the gravity shoes and she could tell he was getting tired.

Consequently, she kept up a constant chatter to him, making sure he was okay, and of course, offering repair suggestions along the way on what Chakotay was describing. When he finally returned he was more tired than usual and Kathryn quickly asserted he would not work anymore this day. To her surprise, he agreed.

Just before retiring for the night, Kathryn walked forward and looked down on the battered Voyager. Chakotay moved up beside her and as they slipped arms around each other's waist, she murmured "Goodnight my friend. It won't be long before you'll be taking care of us again."

Chakotay kissed her head and they moved to the rear and retired for the night.

* * * * *

For two weeks Chakotay and Kathryn struggled to get the graviton system on line.
Occasionally Chakotay would work in Engineering while Kathryn was on the
Bridge and between the two of them the Graviton system was finally repaired and as the panel lights came on, and the pressure gauges indicated gravity was returning to the ship, they both gave a big yell of exhilaration. Now they would be able to beam onto Voyager without having to wear those Environmental suits!

Next, they implemented a 'jury rigged' Shield Grid system, and were able to get force fields and Shields established around the whole ship, much to their relief. This enabled them to move freely in the corridors instead of having to beam within the three areas, plus Kathryn felt immense relief that Voyager now had shields and therefore some protection from any alien vessel. If and when they found a planet, they would get the necessary equipment to fix the shields as they should be.

The engines, however, were something else. No matter what they tried or did, the damage was too great to overcome. They needed not only trained Engineers, but new equipment for some of the repairs, replacement equipment that sadly did not seem to exist on Voyager.

They spent evenings discussing different methods they might try, and as silence settled in at one point Kathryn sighed heavily and said, "You know Chakotay I still find it hard to believe we haven't seen any Pods."

"Well we were on Voyager for several hours, on the Flyer several weeks, and then we spent a month on our planet, getting you healthy. Voyager is still only moving on her own inertia. I suppose we could use the Flyer and put a tractor beam on her, but that might burn out the Flyer's engines and we certainly don't want to chance that."

Chakotay then squeezed her hand. "They are probably way ahead of us sweetheart. Either that or they all flew in a different heading for some planet we didn't see on our sensors. Maybe they found one, scrounged up a ship and are well on their way to the Alpha Quadrant."

"That's a lot of maybes and I hope some are true, honey. I know I will certainly be glad to find a planet -- any planet! This has been the most God-forsaken area of space I think we have ever seen. Well, except for The Void!"

Chakotay laughed at that reference. "Hopefully we will find one soon. Then we can get that very much needed equipment, supplies and rest!"

Another four days went by and one evening as Chakotay sat in the Command chair and Kathryn was behind him at the OPS station, they were having their familiar 'do you remember' conversation.

"Chakotay," called out Kathryn, "Do you remember when I carried Kes through that . . ."

"Oh Great Spirits -- yes, Kathryn. I was so afraid you were going to be killed. I was praying every step you took."

"To tell you the truth I was nervous about it too, and I saw such concern and worry in your eyes and face. But I knew it was the right thing to do."

"Well all I could think to say when you were all right was 'Thank you Great Spirits" and he laughed as he added, "And I must have repeated it a thousand times since."

Kathryn laughed and glancing down at her panel suddenly said, "Chakotay, sensors show an object ahead . . . 80,000 kilometers."

"I have it on my board, too, Kathryn. It's too small to be a ship. Either it's a shuttle or . . . Kathryn, I have a Starfleet signature! I'm bringing it up on the View Screen. Oh Great Spirits," whispered Chakotay, his eyes wide in amazement. "It's a Pod -- a Pod from Voyager!"

Kathryn squeezed Chakotay's shoulder as she moved up beside him, shock registering ten fold in her expression.

"Are there any life signs?" she whispered in a quiet voice.

"Very faint, and sensors show eight souls aboard."

"Hail them Chakotay."

"To the Voyager Pod, this is Commander Chakotay of the Starship Voyager. Do you read me?"

They waited but heard no response so Chakotay hailed again. "Voyager Pod, this is Commander Chakotay. Do you hear me?"

Still nothing and Kathryn and Chakotay looked at one another worried frowns creasing their faces. "Maybe they are too weak to respond," said Kathryn.

"This is Chakotay of the Starship Voyager calling the Voyager Pod. Please respond. Can you answer me?"

A scuffling, dragging sound was heard, and then a very weak and rasping voice said, "Commander? Is it really you?"

Chakotay and Kathryn both smiled in relief. "I assure you it is. To whom am I speaking?"

"This is Ensign Shannon sir."

"Ensign this is Captain Janeway. We are . . ."

"Captain Janeway! We all thought you were dead! Oh sorry ma'am, it's just that . . ."

Kathryn laughed. "I would be dead if it were not for Commander Chakotay I assure you. Tell me Ensign, what is the condition of your group?"

"We are all extremely weak, Captain." Shannon stopped, coughed and after getting his breath continued, "We ran out of food seven or eight days ago and water two days ago. It's really hard to know days anymore, Captain. Lt. Ayala is the worst. It seems he was sharing his rations."

Chakotay meanwhile was maneuvering the Flyer up beside the Pod. "Ensign
Shannon, look out your Starboard view window."

"The Flyer! Wow is it ever good to see." There was silence a moment followed by a soft, "I guess Voyager really did go down then . . ."

"Is your Navigational System still functional," asked Chakotay as he looked at Kathryn who had tears streaming down her cheeks and unable to talk she was so overcome with happiness.

"Yes sir."

"All right, Ensign, then if you are able, I suggest you turn the Pod 180 degrees and look back and up 35 degrees."

Kathryn and Chakotay watched as the Pod slowly turned to face back, and waited for the reaction.

"Oh my God." came a whisper. "It's Voyager . . . but how? It looks in terrible shape, Commander."

"It is. Engines so far are not repairable, but it's still there. The Captain and I live on the Flyer while working . . . well enough of that we can discuss Voyager later. Do you see the open Pod Hatch nearest the Bridge?"

Chakotay and Kathryn listened to the sound of more dragging and scuffling but finally heard the response. "Uh . . . Yes sir."

"All right, we are going tractor you to Voyager, and then we want you to dock in that area. The Captain and I will beam onto Voyager while you dock and meet you there, understood?"

"Yes sir, understood."

Chakotay initiated the Tractor Beam and started his return to Voyager. Nearing the open Hatch he informed Ensign Shannon he was releasing the Pod, and to start Docking maneuvers. Chakotay positioned the Flyer above Voyager as Shannon maneuvered the Pod and after watching the Pod start to nestle in the open hatchway, and assured the docking was proceeding normally, the two of them beamed to the Bridge and made their way to the Pod Hatch.

As they arrived they heard the final latches clamp onto the Pod and then silence. Finally the Pod hatch seal of air was heard releasing and slowly the door pushed open. The stench that erupted from the Pod was overbearing and both Kathryn and Chakotay gagged momentarily, but gritted their teeth, understanding the situation and not wanting the occupants to be anymore embarrassed than they likely were.

A dirty, scruffy, unkempt and longhaired man's face poked out, and then a smile lit up the sad brown eyes. "Ensign Shannon, sirs," he said weakly. "I'm sorry about our appearance and the smell, but permission to come aboard?"

"Don't concern yourself with that Ensign," said Kathryn with a big smile. "And permission gladly granted."

"Thank you ma'am. I'll help the others," and he disappeared back into the Pod. Shortly two arms and a head appeared and started crawling out. Chakotay knelt down to help and seeing the crewman was unable to stand pulled him over to the wall and leaned him against it. As each crewmember crawled out Kathryn gave them a big smile along with "Welcome back."

Ensign Shannon appeared at the hatch pulling on one arm of Lt Ayala. Chakotay reached in and grabbed the other arm and pulled Ayala out far enough that he was able to get hold of both arms and pulled him out of the Pod, followed by Ensign Shannon, who after getting out of the Pod rolled over on his back on the deck and used the debris in the corridor as a pillow for his head. All that Kathryn and Chakotay could hear, as his mouth moved was a whispered "Thank you."

Chakotay took the Medical TriCorder Kathryn had brought from the Flyer and started checking all the group's readings. Looking up at Kathryn he said, "All are badly dehydrated and malnourished, but other than that really not bad. No disease or broken bones." He rose and looked at the group, still actually wearing their Comm badges. He recognized them and told Kathryn, "We have three from Engineering Captain . . . Ensigns Parker, Taylor and Brooks, while Ensign Kahler and Crewman Allen are from Maintenance, Ensign Aikido worked in the Cargo Bay, Lt Ayala the Gamma shift on the Bridge and Shannon here is from Security."

Kathryn nodded and looked at them with sad, yet grateful eyes. They were alive and now back on Voyager, despite their shape. Turning to Chakotay she said, "Sweetheart why don't you beam to Sick Bay and get some more supplies." Chakotay looked at her and just smiled.

Kathryn, realizing she had called him sweetheart in front of the crew looked down at eight shocked and wide-eyed faces and smiled. "Yes, you heard right. During this entire ongoing trauma, Chakotay and I confessed our love for one another," and this news was greeted by big smiles from them all, despite their weakened condition.

"And Tom Paris is no where in sight to check his betting pot," rasped Lt. Ayala weakly, causing everyone to chuckle.

Chakotay beamed to Sick Bay while Kathryn told the group they were 'home' and going to be all right. Slapping her badge she said, "Chakotay I just happened to think, check the Doctor's cabinets for some cleaning supplies. These people will feel better if they can clean up a little."

"Right. I was just looking . . . Ah here is a box labeled Medical Wipes . . ."

"That's it," interrupted Kathryn. "Bring a couple of boxes."

"There are also some ampoules here labeled Intravenous . . . I'll bring eight of those as well as a couple of extra hypos. Might as well make your self useful, Captain," he said laughing.

Kathryn chuckled. "Are you insinuating I'm not too helpful, Commander?"

"Not at all Captain," said Chakotay as he appeared beside her. Laying the boxes of Wipes down he handed the Ampoules to Kathryn and while she loaded first one Hypo then the other, Chakotay knelt down and administered the Intravenous to each of them. When finished he stood and looked at the group.

"We live on the Flyer as I told Ensign Shannon, for one big reason. Although Voyager keeps drifting along, she really isn't in good shape and we don't have the equipment to repair the Engines. We have managed to get Life Support, Graviton, and Shields working somehow by jury-rigging the Bio-Neural Circuitry in those areas, but it's not functioning properly throughout the ship and neither is much else. There is no Main Power due, no doubt, to the circuitry not working in all areas, consequently no Replicator's or Showers. So for safety's sake we stay on the Flyer. It will be cramped and you will have to sleep on the floor with me."

Ensign Shannon interrupted saying "We've done that for months Sir, it won't be difficult."

"There is one thing I would like to ask," Kathryn said. "Why didn't you land at the Planet we passed about two or more months back? Chakotay and I spent a month there healing my leg and found no indication of any Pods landing there."

"Simple," spoke up Ensign Parker. "That Maradi ship? He trailed the Pods and when we got to the planet he sent out a broad communication warning us that if we attempted to land he would shoot us down. One Pod thought he might be bluffing and started down, and that murderer shot them down like dogs, so Commander Tuvok ordered us all to keep going."

"Tuvok? He's alive?" asked Kathryn as she turned and looked at Chakotay.

"He was then," he replied. "We don't know who was in the Pod that was shot out of the air, but Taylor thought he recognized Tom Paris' voice."

Kathryn winced at that, and mumbled, "It would be just like Tom to think he could do something like that."

"Parker added, "Anyway we kept going and I guess you found out why he wouldn't let us land, there are no planets anywhere. He probably thought we would all just die out here."

Chakotay nodded as this agreed with his earlier assessment. "Where are the rest of the Pods?" asked Chakotay.

"Don't know," said Lt. Ayala feeling a little better since the injection of fluids. "We had trouble with our Navigational System at one point and while we worked to repair it the rest of the Pods kept going, with Tuvok telling us to land at the first planet we saw and they would probably be there."

"Well let's talk on the Flyer," said Kathryn. "You all look a little better now and you can clean up there. We have a little food, but even the Flyer's supplies are beginning to run low. However, we will make it people!" she finished with a big smile.

Chakotay had Kathryn beam up to the Flyer with Ensigns Shannon and Parker, followed shortly by two groups of three, until all ten were now onboard. Most of the group found spots in the back and Chakotay passed out the wipes, told them to clean up the best they could and he and Kathryn moved forward, with Chakotay having Kathryn sit in the Pilot's seat while he knelt beside her.

"It's going to take them two or three days to get their strength back Kathryn, but with eight more bodies, three from Engineering no less, we can make more repairs. I'm sure with their expertise we can get the Main Power Grid online."

"Yes if we can get power, we will have Replicator's for food as well as Showers, which we need as bad as they do," and as Kathryn said that she punched at the Environmental Panel of the Flyer in an attempt to increase the circulation of fresh air and ventilate the odor.

"Also," continued Chakotay, "If we get the Replicator's working we can clean up a lot of that debris and replicate some equipment for even more repairs."

Kathryn reached out and placed her hand on Chakotay's cheek. "We are going to make it honey. We are going to bring Voyager back to life."

* * * * *

For two days Chakotay beamed down to Voyager while having Kathryn remain with the survivors. She had wanted to go with him, but understood Chakotay's feelings that the group needed different companionship, and just being in her presence would be mentally helpful to them. Each time Chakotay returned he brought a few more Wipes, plus Intravenous Ampoules, feeling they needed all the nourishment they could get.

On the third day everyone wanted to go down to Voyager, as they were all on their feet now and felt walking around doing something would not only help heal them, but make themselves feel useful again. Chakotay suggested an evaluation trip to see what the group would suggest.

The entire group beamed to Engineering and Parker, Taylor and Brooks, along with Chakotay, set about seeing what could be done, if anything, for the Engines. Kahler and Allen would evaluate what could be done to the computer circuitry while Kathryn, Ayala and Aikido went to the Cargo Bay so Aikido could show her where various supplies and equipment had been stored and to make an inventory.

One hour later everyone beamed back to the Flyer. Parker explained there wasn't anything that could be done about the engines, which disheartened Kathryn, but Kahler said he and Allen could repair the circuitry section by section until they had it all joined together again. At that point they hopefully would have the Main Power Grid back online. This brightened everyone's feelings and Kathryn also reported Aikido had shown them several areas that had valuable supplies and equipment she and Chakotay had been unaware of. Following these reports assignments and shifts were set up, so that while some slept, others worked on Voyager, not only freeing up a little more room on the Flyer but work would go on in Voyager around the clock.

A week went by and Kathryn and Chakotay became concerned about their food supplies. The extra eight bodies were consuming the supplies rather quickly. However, the group worked hard at repairing hull breeches and cleaning up debris from the corridors, piling some in various areas and taking large pieces to the Cargo Bay for future replicating. The corridors actually began looking like corridors instead of an obstacle course. Slowly, Voyager began to at least appear in better shape.

On the tenth day after rescuing the group, Sensors indicated a small planet ahead and everyone became quite excited when discovering it was M Class. Even though pre-warp, it was a planet!

Deciding they would all take the Flyer and move on ahead of Voyager, Chakotay set course for this planet and as they reached and entered orbit he scanned for evidence of other Pods. Unbelievably, there were none!

"Why Chakotay? Why didn't they stop here?" asked a worried, frustrated Kathryn. "What is happening?"

"Maybe they did Kathryn and then moved on, not finding anything useful. It's been a long time and their energy signals have dissipated by now," said Chakotay in a soothing voice. "It is pre-warp and almost deserted."

"Oh sweetheart I know. It's just that I . . ." She shook her head and looked down, but then felt a warm hand cup her chin and lift her head. Chakotay's soft brown eyes looked at her and he gently said, "We'll find them Kathryn. If they are still alive and flying we'll find them." Then he encircled her with his arms and held her tight, sharing his strength and comfort with her.

Flying to a remote area where sensors indicated water he set down in a shaded area. It was going to do them all good to get out in the sunshine and fresh air. Shannon, Ayala and Chakotay all carefully investigated the area and finding no danger told the group it was safe to come out.

"The water is over there," said Chakotay pointing, and they slowly headed in that direction, taking their time in consideration of Kathryn's injured leg. They found not only a crystal clear stream but also a pool of deep water. Shannon looked at it, looked at the rest and with a whoop ran three steps and leaped in. As he splashed about the rest of the group started laughing and also leapt into the water.

Kathryn giggled as she watched this. "Well that will get them as well as their clothes clean!"

Suddenly she found herself being lifted off the ground and in Chakotay's arms. He grinned at her, walked toward the pool edge and jumped, with Kathryn screaming all the way into the water. As she rose sputtering she started laughing and splashed water at Chakotay, saying "You devil I'll get even with you for that." The crew laughed in delight at seeing their Captain and Commander being playful.

The group cavorted joyfully in the pool for a while, then stripped their clothes off and tossed them up on the bank. Following a period of time enjoying the cool refreshing water on their bodies, they clambered out and proceeded to wash their clothes in the stream, oblivious to each other's nakedness. Kathryn and Chakotay, still idly splashing in the water, watched and understood. They had lived together for months in the Pod, sharing and experiencing God knows what together and were rather like a family, with no embarrassment this day, not even in front of their Captain and Commander. After laying their clothes in the sun to dry, the group jumped back into the water, swimming, floating and becoming completely relaxed.

While the group was doing that Chakotay, while still dripping wet in his uniform, went back to the Flyer and retrieved two blankets. Holding one to block off the view of the others, Kathryn climbed out of the water, stripped off her clothes and wrapped the blanket around her self, and then Chakotay reentered the water, pulled his clothes off and wrapped the other blanket around him self. Kathryn lay down and Chakotay carefully move the blanket just enough off her leg, then knelt down and immediately began to massage her left leg. Both were so involved in this that neither saw nor was aware that Ensign Parker scooped up their clothes, washed them and spread them out to dry.

After three hours everyone dressed and lay about soaking up the fresh air and sun, with some crewmembers napping and the rest enjoying being safe once again. Finally Chakotay told them it was time to head back to the Flyer and a happy, refreshed group started the walk back. After taking off, Kathryn ran a sensor sweep and told Chakotay there was a small village about 50 kilometers away with a few life signs, where they might be able to obtain some food supplies. With Kathryn piloting the Flyer, Chakotay, Ayala and Allen beamed down about a half mile from the village and cautiously made their way towards it.

Checking the clothing of the natives from a hillside, Chakotay knew they were going to stand out, as the native men basically wore only a type of loin cloth with the women having a loose fitting type dress. Quickly making a decision Chakotay took off his jacket and tee shirt top and proceeded to rip the top into a makeshift loincloth. Allen discreetly turned her back while he then slipped off his trouser and underpants, then his boots. Telling everyone to remain where they were, he rose and bravely walked into the village. Ayala, after instructing Allen to remain on the hilltop moved to closer position to observe Chakotay He had his phaser in hand, and ready to protect his Commander should the need arise.

As Chakotay made his way through the village he received a few stares, but for the most part no one paid any attention. At last he found a merchant with a table of odd-looking items that appeared to be edible. Standing to one side he watched as people picked out this or that item and moved off, seemingly without paying anything. Taking a deep breath Chakotay approached the table.

Nodding at the Merchant, he picked out ten items, nodded again and walked away, his heart hammering inside his chest. He wanted to run but forced himself to look nonchalant and walk. As he neared the edge of the village he suddenly heard a shout from behind and looking back saw the merchant running in his direction and pointing at him. At this point Chakotay did run, as fast as he could and as he neared the hillside Ayala moved out beside him, grabbed a few of the items from Chakotay's arms and yelled to Allen to contact the Captain for a beam-out.

As the threesome materialized in the Flyer, Kathryn gaped at Chakotay's appearance as he stood gasping for air.

"What on Earth?" she asked and at that point Ayala and Allen, who had Chakotay's jacket and pants, started chuckling. Gradually Chakotay joined them until they were all loudly laughing. Following Ayala's explanation Kathryn joined in the laughter and decided the next time they would scan the local natives and at least have something with them to barter with. But for the first time in months they had some fresh fruit and vegetables, or whatever they were.

The stop at the planet had done wonders for the mood of everyone. Scanning for the drifting Voyager they soon rejoined her, and as the Flyer flew alongside, everyone settled in for a good nights sleep.

* * * * *

Work progressed on Voyager in fits and spurts, but one day Ensign Kahler and Allen let out a yell from Engineering. Chakotay, who was on the Bridge, immediately beamed to their position not knowing what had happened, but feared an injury or problem of some kind. Instead he found a beaming twosome.

"Commander, would you tap that panel please?" asked Kahler.

Chakotay, feeling very puzzled, tapped his finger on the panel. The console flickered, flashed and lit up like a Christmas tree! Chakotay looked up and began to understand.

"Now hit the Main Power Grid, Commander," prompted Allen.

Tapping that Panel there was a slight hum as power began to come on all over the ship. Kathryn, resting in the Flyer after having just spent two hours on Voyager, was staring with a blank, tired expression down at the ship when lights started showing in all View Port Windows. She bolted upright and slapping her Comm Badge yelled "Chakotay! I see lights!"

"They did it Kathryn! Kahler and Allen have repaired and connected the Bio-Neural Circuitry and we now have the Main Power Grid online!"

"Fantastic!" she called back. "Congratulations you two! That means we now have the Replicators, Transporter and the Turbo Lift . . . possibly even the Sensors and the Computer."

"And don't forget the Showers, Captain," called out Shannon's voice.

Kathryn laughed. "And the showers Mr. Shannon."

"Well let's not get too carried away," said Chakotay with a big grin. "We will have to test each of them to make sure they don't individually need repairs. But things are looking up, people!"

Just then the Flyers Sensors started beeping and glancing down Kathryn smiled. "And I have some more good news my friends. Sensors are now showing an M class planet 850,000 kilometers ahead."

"Looks like our lucky day," called back Chakotay. "Well I think this calls for a little extra rest. Finish what you're doing everyone and let's beam back to the Flyer."

Kathryn sat with a large grin as she looked down at Voyager. Her ship was fighting for life and slowly but surely it was happening.

However, with Voyager still without any propulsion, but drifting on a steady course for the planet, Chakotay and Kathryn decided they would move ahead with the Flyer and check things out. It was going to take Voyager quite awhile to cover that distance and they couldn't wait.

As they entered orbit Chakotay scanned the surface while Kathryn anxiously stood beside him peering intently at the panel. Suddenly she pointed.

"There!"



"I see it. Energy signals from the southern hemisphere that indicate . . . Kathryn,"
Chakotay said as he extended the sensors, "We have some Pod tracings with Voyager energy signals."

"Life signs?" she asked excitedly.

Chakotay frowned as he kept tapping at the console. Finally he looked up. "No and sensors now show the Pods are wrecked hulls!"

Kathryn stared at him a moment. "All of them?" As Chakotay nodded his head she quickly added, "But they could be all right. There could have been survivors and they left for the nearest town or village."

"It's possible," he agreed.

"Scan the entire planet sweetheart. This is the first place they had to set down. Maybe there are other Pods in different hemispheres."

Chakotay extended the sensors and scanned everywhere. Shaking his head, he said, "Nothing. That's the only area that indicates any Pods. Well, the only way to find out for sure is to go down there and take a look. Besides we are in dire need of not only equipment for repairs to both ships but food as well, honey."

"I know," she said placing a hand on his shoulder and squeezing reassuringly. "Sensors show this is a Warp capable planet so look for a place to land somewhere near where the Pods are, yet where we won't be that noticeable. That will be our starting place."

Chakotay landed the Flyer about one kilometer from the Pod site and in a shady glen. Because of Kathryn's bad leg she remained on the ship while everyone else hiked to the area, and once there she locked onto Chakotay's Comm Badge and beamed herself to the group. There were ten Pods in various states of damage, and as they walked around them it was quite evident they had crashed, but why wasn't clear.

Kathryn limped over to one Pod and stood quietly looking at it. "You know," she said as Chakotay walked up to her, "I think they have been scavenged as well. There is a lot of equipment we could have used that just isn't here." He turned and moved around to some other Pods, staring intently at each.

"Could be the natives, Captain," said Shannon. "If this planet is Warp capable, they would know the value of this equipment."

"Captain," shouted Ensign Brooks. "Over here!"

Chakotay immediately moved to Brooks' position, took one look and turned to walk back a few steps to Kathryn who was struggling on the rough terrain.

"Kathryn . . ." he said softly.

She stopped walking and looked at him, knowing from the tone of his voice something was wrong.

"What is it?"

"There are some gravesites," he said as he took her arm and helped her to the area. She looked around and inhaled sharply, her hand flying to her face. There were so many markers!

"How many?" she asked, quietly, "And are there names?"

"I count twenty-seven, Captain," said Ayala somberly.

"There appear to be names scratched on them, too, Captain," said Kahler.

"Chakotay, record the names in your TriCorder," said Kathryn, resolving to be strong and forcing herself to stand straighter.

When that was accomplished Chakotay held it out to Kathryn to read. Several times she inhaled suddenly at a particular name, and when finished looked up at him.

"None of the Bridge Officers are listed."

"No, and the fact these individuals were buried indicates there are survivors."

"True," she said still looking somberly at the markers. Squaring her shoulders she asked, "How far is the nearest town from here?"

Ayala, working his TriCorder, answered. "It's about half a kilometer in that direction, Captain."

"All right then, let's go," she barked and limped off in the direction indicated.

Ensign Allen looked at the Captain and turned to look at Chakotay. "Her leg, Commander . . . this is going to be too much for her."

Chakotay nodded but said, "I know, but she has to do this, so don't say anything, okay." He then ran and caught up with her. "When you get tired, don't try to tough it out Kathryn," said Chakotay as he walked beside her.

She grimaced. "To answer your unasked question, yes, it is hurting like hell. However, we'll rest when we get there and Ayala and Shannon can scout out the situation."

"Sounds good to me," he said with a smile. Kathryn looked up at him, and then smiled herself. "Thank you for not making a scene about it. I know I will barely make it, but at least you are letting me try."

"And only because I love you," he said with an impish grin.

At last they reached the edge of the town and while Ayala and Shannon moved on ahead, the rest of the group sat down in the shade of a tree and rested. Thirty minutes later the two returned and reported it was a planet where merchant ships from another nearby planet stopped because their dress was quite varied. At that news the group got up and started their entry into the town.

As they wandered the streets their eyes were alert for any familiar Voyager faces, but none were to be seen. Their biggest problem, despite needing various items plus food, was what were they going to barter or trade with?

They rested periodically, giving Kathryn time to get off her leg, which was obviously beginning to be quite painful for her. Despite her best attempts, she was unable to hide the extreme pain she was now feeling.

During one of their rest stops the group was standing looking at a market full of various foods when an excited voice behind them said,

"Well I never ever thought I would see you again."

Turning they saw the brown eyes of a smiling Harry Kim.

"Harry!" exclaimed Kathryn. She limped towards him and encircled him with a big hug. "How wonderful to see you!"

Harry's eyes glistened. "I . . . . we were told you were dead, Captain."

Kathryn smiled at Chakotay as he stepped back beside her after also giving Harry a warm hug. "And I would be if it were not for Chakotay, Harry."

"But Tuvok felt you were dead too, Commander. He said you were remaining on board Voyager with the Captain and that the Captain was pinned under a massive beam on the Bridge."

"That's true," Kathryn said as she slid her arm around Chakotay's waist. "But Lady Luck smiled on us and Chakotay was able to free me after two or three hours. We were both prepared for the worst."

"Look we can talk about that later," said Chakotay. "Harry we saw the destroyed Pods. What happened?"

"Well most of the Pods were together and Tuvok said to land here. It was the first planet we came to after that first one. But a terrible Ion storm came up and he wanted us to change headings and keep going, that maybe we could double back, but . . . well a bunch of us got trapped in the storm and were forced down. We tried to land, not too successfully as you saw. I think the Navigational Relays were damaged in the storm and we had little if any control during the descent." He hesitated as he looked with still unbelieving eyes at them, then continued. "I guess you're aware of the graves then."

"Yes," said Kathryn sadly. "What happened? Tell me everything. How many survived?"

He looked rather sad as he contemplated his answer. "There were ten Pods and eight to a Pod, with each one having a Lt. in charge. As you saw, 27 perished in the crash leaving fifty-three of us. We've been here over a month and have since lost six more due to injuries."

"So there are forty-seven of you here then," said Chakotay as he slipped an arm around Kathryn's back giving her a support so she could take the weight off her leg.

"Yes, but things are really not good here. Some of the others are not very healthy and I really don't think they will last much longer. The natives here are not too friendly with help, not enemies or anything like that, but we don't have anything to barter with so they just basically ignore us," he said in a frustrated tone. "Those of us that are able go into town for odd jobs in exchange for food, but even then they aren't quick to give us work. We did manage to build a shelter of sorts on the edge of town and are staying there."

"I'm sorry Harry. You do look like you've lost some weight," Kathryn remarked.

Harry looked at the Captain and Commander as they stood with their arms around each other, peeked down at Kathryn's twisted leg, then quickly looked away and over at the rest of the group and smiled. "I see you found Lt Ayala's Pod."

"Yes quite awhile back. But we've been very concerned about not finding any of the Pods. Is Tuvok here?"

"No ma'am, only our group. Tuvok must have evaded the storm and moved on. There is supposed to be another planet nearby that is highly developed. We've been hoping he would obtain a ship and come back for us, but so far we haven't seen him."

"He just might be having trouble getting a ship. Are . . ." and Kathryn hesitated a moment. Clearing her throat she asked, "Are any of the Senior staff with you?"

Harry just shook his head. "Afraid not . . . Tom, B'Elanna, Tuvok of course, all must be in the other group . . . I hope. The Maradi shot down one Pod over the first planet we came to after abandoning Voyager, but we're not sure who was in it."

"We know, Lt Ayala's group told us. Were you not able to contact the other Pods?"

"Tuvok told us to talk only with his Pod to conserve energy. He was very adamant on that."

Ayala spoke up. "Harry's right on that Captain. Tuvok didn't allow communication between Pods."

"I see," said Chakotay. "Look, Kathryn has to rest her leg. How far is your shelter? We want to see the rest of the group."

Harry smiled and as he turned gave a questioning look to Kathryn, but she shook her head as if reading his mind. "No I'm fine, Harry. Chakotay will give me all the help I need."

As Harry looked at them he realized something special had happened between the Captain and Commander and broke into a large smile. They were happy and relaxed together, and obviously making no attempt to hide their feelings. Again Kathryn nodded her head as she laughed. "And, as Lt Ayala has said, 'no Tom to check his pool'."

Harry laughed in delight and offered his hand to Chakotay in congratulations along with an "about time" statement.

* * * * *

The walk to the shelter was a painful one for Kathryn and she knew she would pay for it during the night, but at last they arrived at the shelter. As Harry pushed open the door he called out, "Hey everyone! You will never believe who I found in town."

As Kathryn, Chakotay, Lt Ayala and all the rest of the group walked in behind Harry there was first shock, then murmurs that gradually gave way to loud shouts of surprise and greeting, with all gathering around asking questions. So Kathryn explained how Chakotay had elected to remain and die with her and how the ship had listed badly to one side one time, which was enough for Chakotay to pull her out from under the beam.

"So are your Pods down by ours then?" asked Harry.

"No, we are actually in the Flyer," said Chakotay with a sly grin to his group.

"All of you? Rather crowded isn't it?"

"Not anymore than the Pod, Harry," Lt Ayala smirked, going along with Chakotay not mentioning Voyager.

"And we might have a surprise for you in the morning," said Kathryn with a mischievous grin.

Harry smiled. "You're going to go on to the next planet, locate Tuvok and come back for us," he said excitedly.

"That's pretty close," laughed Kathryn. "Anyway you will see in the morning. That's about the right time isn't it Chakotay?"

He grinned. "I believe so, Captain."

"Well then, let's see about some food. You people look like you might be hungry for some fresh food instead of replicated rations," said Harry and several people immediately scurried off to the rear of the shelter.

Following their meal everyone sat around the shelter bringing Kathryn and Chakotay up-to-date on their Pod travails. Soon it was dusk and they all gradually moved away to certain spots on the floor and lay down.

"We retire early and rise early, so we can get jobs and then some fresh vegetables and fruits at the market," explained Harry.

"Sounds like a sound idea," said Chakotay. "I myself would like to get some more fresh air and I need to treat Kathryn's leg, so feel free to go to sleep Harry."

"Look, there's a nice spot up on the hill. I sometimes sit under the tree and watch the stars there. In fact some nights I sleep there, as the nights aren't cold. Be my guest," he said as he walked to the door and pointed out the area.

"Sounds wonderful," said Kathryn and she and Chakotay slowly walked up the hill, found a nice spot and after moaning from the effort to sit down, Kathryn stretched out on the soft grass with a huge sigh and relaxed for a few moments. Chakotay took off his jacket and fixed a pillow for her head and then kneeling by her left leg started his ritual of massage and exercise.

Harry, still standing in the doorway of the shelter, smiled as he watched. "About time you two - about time," he muttered to himself, then turned and disappeared inside.

When Chakotay finished his 'torture' as Kathryn termed it, he lay down on his side and close to her, bracing his head with his hand and just stared at her face. He could see her face had relaxed somewhat and knew she was happy to have found some of the crew, but he also knew she wouldn't be totally satisfied until all of the crew and Voyager were a family once again. Reaching to her face he gently stroked her cheek with the back of his hand and as she opened her eyes and looked at him he softly said, "I love you Kathryn."

Taking hold of his hand, she squeezed it, smiled and whispered, "And I love you my dearest Chakotay." As she raised her head slightly, Chakotay lowered his and they kissed a sweet, gentle and loving kiss.

"I wish we could be alone someplace," she murmured. "I want you to make love to me. I've missed that since we found Ayala's Pod."

He smiled. "Me too." Looking around he saw a small grove of trees about fifty meters away and when he looked back at her saw she was smiling. "You've done too much on your leg today, sweetheart," he said, "It's going to pain you all night and I don't have a Hypo with me."

She sighed. "I know, but it would be worth it."

"Maybe tomorrow night," he said softly. "Get some rest now."

"You don't want to love me?" she asked with an impish smile.

"Oh Gods, Kathryn, you know I do. In fact," and he stopped and just looked at her for a long moment.

"What honey?" she asked.

Chakotay again stretched out on his side and placing his hand gently on her cheek, smiled a rather shy smile, and then said, "Kathryn, would you ever consider . . . I mean . . . I would love to make a baby with you sometime. To have our own child that is part of you would make me the happiest person in the world, yet I know now is not the . . ."

Kathryn placed a finger over his lips. "I would like that too," she whispered. "But I'm getting a little old for that without the proper medical treatment don't you think?" Chakotay smiled like an excited, happy schoolboy at the first part of her answer.

"Not necessarily," he said. "But, maybe someday -- if we find the EMH?"

She smiled, turned on her side and after gently pushing him down to the grass, snuggled her head onto his shoulder. "Do you remember . . . ?"

"Yes."

"I haven't even asked you yet," she said giggling.

"I remember everything about the six years I've spent on Voyager with you. But go ahead and ask."

"Just for that I will. Do you remember back when we first met and you had destroyed your ship?

"Yes. I was afraid Paris was going to screw up something and I wouldn't be beamed out in time."

"No you weren't." she said slapping him on the chest. "Anyway, do you remember when you were on the Bridge and B'Elanna charged at me and you stopped her?"

Chakotay chuckled. "Yes and she demanded to know who the hell you thought you were."

"When you said, 'She's the Captain' I was filled with the utmost respect for you right then and I think that's the moment I decided to make you my First Officer."

Chakotay tightened his arms around her and turning his head slightly nuzzled his face into her hair. "I'm glad," he murmured. Before long they both fell asleep.

* * * * *

At 04:30 hours everyone in the shelter that was capable of working was up and heading towards town. Harry scooped up a shirt he had managed to obtain by saving barter credits, and figuring it would get him a few extra fruits and vegetables for the Captain and Commander, folded it and left the shelter. Glancing up at the hillside, he could see the two of them were still asleep, so headed for town.

By 0900 hours most of the group was back at the shelter and having breakfast. As Harry came walking in Kathryn and Chakotay greeted him.

"Why didn't you wake me?" said Chakotay. "I could have helped."

Harry smiled. "You looked like you needed your rest Commander and besides, you looked too comfortable to wake up."

Chakotay smiled and agreed it was a beautiful spot to spend the night. After breakfast Chakotay, Ayala and Kahler left, ostensibly to hike back to the Flyer. In reality, upon reaching it they flew off in the direction of Voyager. Sensors located it shortly and Ayala and Kahler beamed into Engineering. Voyager was still on course for the planet and right where they guessed it would be. Chakotay then turned the Flyer around and headed back.

Meanwhile Kathryn gathered the entire group together and said it was almost time for the surprise she had mentioned to Harry yesterday. Slapping her Comm Badge she asked, "Chakotay are you there? Are you about ready?"

"All ready Captain," was the response.

Kathryn indicated for Harry and 5 others to stand to one side, away from the group and informed them they were being beamed up to the Flyer.

"Remember to leave your communication open Chakotay," she called out and then making sure the group was ready added, "Energize." Kathryn told the remainder of the group it would be ten to fifteen minutes before she could say anymore so in the meantime to just lay back and relax, but be alert.

Ten minutes later Harry's voice could be heard emanating from Kathryn's Comm badge and shouting, "It's Voyager! I can't believe it! This is impossible! How on earth is she flying? Oh my God, I can't believe this!"

The group gathered around Kathryn and became very excited. Lt. Gomez asked, "Is it really Voyager Captain?"

"Yes, it's really Voyager," said Kathryn with a big smile. She proceeded to tell what had happened, how they had found it and the attempts at repairs, with Life Support and the Gravitational System being repaired, but that the Propulsion system was not repairable until they get certain equipment and parts. Continuing, she explained the plan was for all of them to be shuttled up to Voyager every day to not only continue repairs but to clean up the debris as well, and asked them to gather all the equipment they had scavenged from the Pods so that could also be used.

Shortly she had Power Cells, Plasma Manifolds, Plasma Couplings, Navigational Relay parts, Data Modules, Plasma Relays, Conduits, and even the wiring that had been pulled from the Pods. Kathryn smiled at the equipment being placed in a pile.

"This is wonderful that you all had the foresight to save all this. It will be a God send in repairing Voyager!" At that moment she heard Chakotay's voice, that he was ready for the next group of ten.

Kathryn told him of the Pod equipment that was now gathered in a pile and that she also had an idea.

"Knowing my Captain" spoke Chakotay, "I might have known you would come up with a new idea, so tell me.

"I was thinking as they were bringing all this equipment out. The Pods are useless now, and we'll eventually need to replicate and build more for the future, so instead of shuttling everyone to Voyager now, how about having a group of ten or twelve go to the Pod site and disassemble them completely. This would give us more material to use, possibly repairing Voyager's hull sometime. What do you think?"

"I like it Kathryn. We should bring everything we can with us to Voyager anyway, not leave it. Okay you pick out the crew to work on that and send ten more out for me to transport to Voyager."

For three days Chakotay spent most of his time beaming groups to the Flyer and then shuttling them to and onto Voyager, and then repeating the same process to bring them back. Meanwhile the Pods were being dismantled and Chakotay would periodically make a stop on an outgoing trip to beam up the Pod material and deposit it in Voyager's Cargo Bay. During this time, Kathryn had actually accepted Chakotay's suggestion to remain on the surface and tend to the sick crewmembers. They needed someone with them at all times, and her presence as Captain had buoyed their spirits tremendously. Besides, she was positive Chakotay wanted to give her leg more rest and she could not deny it had been quite painful of late.

With all the extra help, repairs on Voyager were making good progress. Near the end of the third day, and just before it was time to start returning the first group to their 'base camp' as some had started calling their shelter, Ensign Kahler called to Chakotay who was under a station on the Bridge and asked him to come to Engineering.

When he arrived he found Harry, Kahler, Allen and three other crew members, Parker, Taylor and Brooks from Engineering, in deep conversation. Where Chakotay had hoped the hail from Kahler might have been some good news, his heart skipped when he saw the serious expressions on their faces.

Kahler looked at Chakotay as he walked up. "Commander I'm afraid we have a problem."

He nodded his head and said, "Okay, let's hear it."

"Well, Sir, I'm sure you are aware of this, but Voyager is slowing down, and is not only beginning to drift off the course she's been on, but," and he rubbed the top of his head, "she is now starting to lose altitude. Another problem is the Main Power Grid . . . with all the jury-rigging we did it's starting to fluctuate. We're working on it but just don't have the right equipment to really fix it.

Chakotay pursed his lips. "Yes I've seen the power fluctuate. As to Voyager, I know she's getting slower. She should have not only been over our planet but passing it by now, and coming out I have had to fly in a more Northerly heading each day to find her." He frowned and rubbed the back of his neck. "How much altitude is she losing? Is there a danger of her going down?"

"I'm afraid so, Commander," added Harry. "I've been running a diagnostic ever since Kahler pointed this out to me and Voyager's definitely slowing down more each day, each hour actually, and this is causing her to lose altitude. She'll eventually enter the lower atmosphere and either burn up or crash."

"So what's the answer? Anything?"

Harry looked over at Taylor and nodding his head said, "Ensign Taylor has an idea . . . rather drastic, but we've been going over it for the last hour and it is feasible."

"All right Ensign, let's hear it," said Chakotay.

"Well, Sir," she began in a hesitant voice, "As Harry said it's rather drastic, but . . ." She took a deep breath and looked at all the faces.

"Out with it Ensign, I don't bite," smiled Chakotay.

She smiled and continued. "Based on what you have just been told and what you already know that the Propulsion can't be repaired until we get equipment, what about . . ." She took a deep breath, swallowed and suddenly surged ahead in a fast explanation.

"Sir we have four Shuttles in the Shuttle Bay plus the Flyer. Maintenance has repaired all the Shuttles and they are fully functional. You are wasting a lot of energy everyday in the Flyer having to beam and shuttle all of us out here, so I was thinking we could launch all the Shuttles, lock onto Voyager with their Tractor Beams and tow her to the next planet, then lower the Landing Struts, employ the Anti Graviton Field and have the Shuttles take Voyager down to the surface, hopefully to some remote area so we can work on her there . . . on the surface." She stopped talking and took another deep breath and stared with a rather frightened, 'that sounds so dumb saying it out loud', expression.

Chakotay looked at her, looked around at the other faces, back at Taylor, then down at the Deck. Everyone remained quiet for a moment and then Harry spoke up. "I know it sounds dumb, but I really think it will work Commander! It's trying that or give up and watch Voyager crash, and after all she's been through we don't want to see that!"

"Voyager could crash on the surface while the Shuttles are trying to put her down, Harry. And 59 crewmembers, more or less, would die with her."

Parker and Brooks added their thoughts on the matter as well as Kahler and Allen, who had walked up during Taylor's explanation. To a person, they all felt it would work.

"There isn't any power for the Landing Struts to be deployed," said Chakotay. They would have to be cranked down by hand with someone down inside the Strut Hold, and that's hard work, slow and very dangerous. One slip and that person is sailing into space."

"We've discussed that, too, Commander," said Harry, "And several crewmen have volunteered to do that."

Chakotay suddenly smiled. "Sounds like you people have been discussing this for awhile."

Kahler grinned. "Yes, sir, we have - since following dinner last night."

"I wondered what some of you were so engrossed in," Chakotay said with a smile
"All right, it's something to consider and I for one don't want to lose Voyager after all we and she have been through, so let's run it by the Captain tonight . . . after dinner," he added with a smile. "Now let's start getting people back."

* * * * *

That night after dinner Chakotay had everyone gather together and the scenario was explained in full to Kathryn. She listened intently to the problem and suggested solution. At the end everyone in the room sat silently looking at her, and waited. Kathryn looked at various faces, and after a moment quietly asked, "And what happens if the Tractor Beams fail?"

Chakotay, looking her square in the face, said softly, "We all die in the ensuing crash. Voyager can't sustain herself in the air once we start taking her down."

Kathryn nodded her head. "And it's not feasible to have the crew in all the shuttles. That would add too much weight to them individually and thus take even more energy."

Chakotay nodded. "We have even thought of taking all the crew members on to the other planet and then just the pilots in shuttles would be at risk, but the crew vetoed that, saying Voyager has protected them all these years and they prefer to be with her, even if it's a final ride to their deaths."

Kathryn remained quiet for some time, analyzing the suggested scenario. Suddenly she looked up at Chakotay and said, "Well, as long as a beam doesn't fall and crush my other leg it seems our Shuttles are going to become mother hens for awhile. Chakotay, Harry, all the Engineering and Maintenance people, let's go up on that lovely outside hill and go over this plan with a fine tooth comb."

The next morning, excitement ran high. Everyone was up and ready at 0400 hours. The Flyer was crammed full of as many crewmembers as possible without endangering the shuttle and transported out to Voyager, but it still took Chakotay three trips. The selected Pilots of Benedict, Surado, Nakamatsu, and Gomez headed for the Shuttle Bay. Lt. Underwood was selected to be the main pilot in the air and would be in the Flyer. Chakotay was firm that he would not leave Kathryn's side in this dangerous endeavor and would coordinate everything from the Bridge.

Once the Shuttles were in position Chakotay gave the order to engage Tractor Beams. Voyager lurched as they locked on and slowly but surely Voyager's heading changed towards the next planet. The Shuttles slowly rose to a higher orbit and soon were directly on course.

"Everything nominal, Captain," reported Harry. "No fluctuations or problems of any kind."

"Good," said Kathryn as she nervously stood on the Bridge.

Once Voyager reached the desired Orbit the Shuttles increased their speed and on a decided time set into the computer, all released their Tractor Beams. The plan was to do this periodically and let Voyager coast, thus saving the shuttle's energy for the dangerous job ahead of lowering Voyager to the surface.

"Voyager remaining on course, no loss of altitude, inertia steady at ten knots," called out Harry.

Kathryn turned to Chakotay. "How long did they say to the next planet?"

"About two hours if we were operating at Full Impulse. However, at Inertia it will take us most of the day. Every thirty minutes the shuttles will lock the Tractor Beams onto Voyager and execute a steady pull for precisely ten minutes, then release. Hopefully by employing this method this will reserve all the energy needed by the Shuttles for when the Tractor Beams will be engaged full time taking Voyager down to the surface."

Kathryn sat down on her improvised Command Chair and rubbed at the back of her neck. "I could sure use one of your massages now, Chakotay, even the 'torture' ones," she said with a laugh.

He grinned as he looked at her, and then suddenly went to her side and leaning down whispered in her ear, "I'll give you more than a neck massage once we are on that planet, Kathryn."

Her eyes twinkled as she looked at him and said, "Promise?"

"I promise," he said as he squeezed her hand and turned back to watching his Console.

At the five hour mark Chakotay ordered five relief pilots beamed to all five Shuttles, thus giving those pilots much needed relief. They would be the ones to take Voyager to the surface and it was critical they be fresh for that maneuver.

Ten hours later the Planet was in sight. "Harry, find us a nice, isolated, and very large vacant area to land Voyager in," called out Kathryn.

"Aye, Captain. It will take a minute or so as Voyager's sensors are not as good as they used to be," he chuckled. A few minutes later he reported he had found a large area and one that was only 300 Kilometers from a city.

"Patch it in to the Shuttles and the Flyer," said Chakotay and he then notified the five original pilots to beam out to the ships.

"I was thinking Chakotay," said Kathryn, "Can we shuttle the crew down to the surface before we land. I don't want them injured."

"We thought of that too, Kathryn, but once we are within reach of the specified area, the Tractor Beams have to remain locked onto Voyager. Even releasing one to let it shuttle people to a beam down spot is putting that much more strain on the other ships. With the Main Power Grid fluctuating we can't trust Voyager's Transporters, but Harry came up with an idea, a strange one I grant you, but it will offer some protection."

Kathryn turned to look back at Harry and he blushed. "What's the idea Harry?" asked Kathryn with a smile.

"Well I suggested we have all of the crew take the mattresses out of all but a few rooms and have the crewmembers lay on one with another over them, with extra mattresses spread out around the walls." He then laughed. "I don't think I explained that too well, but it will cushion the impact plus protect them from any possible falling debris."

Kathryn laughed and waved her hand. "I'm not laughing that it's a bad idea, Harry, I'm laughing because I'm picturing that sight!"

Chakotay chuckled. "Actually Kathryn I didn't think it was too bad an idea and gave approval. We have already explained it to the crew and they have five or six rooms already set up!"

She smiled and asked, "And where is the Bridge mattress Commander?"

Harry burst out laughing, and then his face turned crimson as he stammered his apology.

At that moment Lt Underwood hailed Chakotay. "Commander we have reached the coordinates where we lock onto Voyager full time and start our descent."

Chakotay looked at Kathryn as he said, "Understood. Start your descent now but take it easy Mark . . . a nice easy angle until we are over our landing area."

"And keep all communication open Lt.", said Kathryn.

"Aye, Captain. Rob, Niki, Joel, Terry . . . are you all ready?

Multiple responses of "Ready" were heard.

"All right initiate descent on my mark . . . mark."

"Everything looking normal, Captain," said Harry as the Bridge became quiet.

"Initiate the Anti Graviton Field when we enter the planet's atmosphere," said Chakotay.

"I'm on it, sir," replied Harry.

"Shannon is your crew ready?" asked Chakotay

Ensign Shannon standing by at the Landing Struts area replied that everyone was ready and anxious to 'go to work'.

"Enter the Strut wells and start your manual deployment. I don't want to wait until we are in the planet's atmosphere," said Kathryn.

"Aye, Captain. We will start manual deployment now."

"All hands, prepare your-self. We are starting our descent," called out Chakotay.

"Niki!" called out Underwood, "More power to your Tractor. It looks like its losing contact!"

"I'm already at full power Mark!"

"Entering Earth's atmosphere, initiating Anti Graviton Field," said Harry.

"Keep checking your tractor, Joel. Let me know when your power starts to weaken," said Underwood.

Voyager seemed to increase speed and both Kathryn and Chakotay could feel their stomachs react.

"I'm losing my Tractor!" called out Terry. "I can't hold it!"

"Release and reattach, Terry" responded Underwood.

"Joel, the aft section is getting lower, reverse Thrusters, keep it level!" barked Underwood again

"How's it going with the Struts Shannon?" called out Chakotay.

"Three are halfway down, but I've got a problem with mine. It seems to be stuck. I've got to climb down into the hold."

"Be careful, don't get caught and be pulled out!" cautioned Chakotay.

A mumbled response of "Yes sir," was heard.

Kathryn found herself gripping her arms rest so tight her arm ached. She felt Voyager again pick up speed in her descent.

"Hold it steady guys, hold it steady," cautioned Underwood, "We're almost over the landing area. This will be the tricky part, taking Voyager straight down."

"Graviton Field weakening, down to 90%," called out Harry.

"Everything looks good guys," called out Underwood. "Keep it level! Slow . . . slow . . . Rob pull up, Aft is getting lower again."

"I'm losing power on my tractor," called out Gomez.

"I am too," said Niki. "Both of us are on the aft section. "It's pulling us down!"

"Increase power!"

"I lost my tractor! Trying to reattach," yelled Rob.

"500 Kilometers from the surface," said Harry.

"We're going down too fast!" yelled Kathryn. "Reverse Thrusters on the shuttles!"

"I'm losing my Tractor, it's down to 10%," called out Terry.

"Mines failing, I can't hold it!" called out Rob.

"Release and reattach Rob! Stay with it, you can do it!" said Underwood. "I'm coming around to Aft to help!"

"250 Kilometers," reported Harry to the hushed and tense Bridge. There wasn't anything anyone could do but listen to the pilots as they fought to maintain control of not only Voyager but their ships as well.

"Shannon, report on the Landing Struts!" hailed Chakotay.

"Three are down and locked, but I've got a damnable problem!" he said with a grunt. "Got mine down but it wont lock in place!"

"150 Kilometers," called out Harry with a tinge of nervousness in his voice.

"Get out of the well Shannon," yelled Kathryn. When we hit if that strut isn't locked it will push back into the well and crush you. Get out now!"

"Need just a few more seconds, Captain," he said, his voice straining with whatever he was trying to do.

Kathryn felt the aft section getting lower.

Underwood was then heard saying, "Employing my Tractor Beam. Nicki, release yours and reattach."

"I've lost my Tractor!" called out Joel. "Trying to reattach."

"Anti Graviton Field failing, down to 20%," said Harry.

"I'm losing my hold, Voyager is just too heavy," called out Rob. "My Tractor is gone!"

"Reattach, reattach!" yelled Underwood.

"Unable, Tractor gone completely!" responded Rob.

"75 Kilometers, Graviton field at 10%, it won't hold until touchdown Captain," called out Harry.

Chakotay reached out and took hold of Kathryn's hand and just looked at her. She squeezed his hand and while looking back mouthed 'I love you.'

"25 Kilometers, Anti Grav at 5%!"

"My tractor is failing, too," called out Underwood. "Now it's gone! Nicki and Terry you two are the only ones. Full power! You've got to hang on!"

"10 Kilometers, Anti Grav down to 3%. It won't hold until we're down!"

"I'm losing it!" yelled Nicki. "I don't think I can hold it anymore!"

"1 Kilometer, Anti Grav at 1% Captain!" said Harry his voice showing the strain.

Chakotay squeezed Kathryn's hand and while starting to rise, turned toward her.

"One-half Kilometer, Anti Grav is failing . . . Anti Grav is gone Captain! 3/10 Kilometer until touchdown!"

"Move away! All pilots move away, we've lost her! We've lost her! She's going to hit hard!" yelled Underwood. "Voyager, brace for impact!"

Voyager hit with a thunderous jolt and as Chakotay found himself flying through the air, he was aware of losing contact with Kathryn's hand and hearing a scream before everything went black.

Dirt, dust, and debris of all kinds flew into the air as Voyager burrowed into the surface with an unbelievable, horrifying sound, and as the debris rained down on her, and she settled into the surface, an eerie strange silence fell over the ship.

Slowly the black turned to a gray haze and somewhere deep in the back of his mind, Chakotay was vaguely aware of his name being said.

"Chakotay . . ."

Groaning softly he shook his head as he tried to clear his mind and squeezing his eyes hard found his vision gradually clearing. Slowly he raised his head and found himself looking down at Kathryn's face, and realized she was quietly saying his name.

"Chakotay," she said softly. Seeing his eyes open she said, "Sweetheart, I know you promised to make love to me when we landed on the planet, but please, not on the Bridge."

Despite his dazed condition he laughed as he realized he was lying on top of Kathryn. Groaning slightly, he rose off her and kneeled at her side, asking if she was all right.

"I think I have a broken or wrenched shoulder and a beaut of a headache. I must have banged my head pretty good. I feel rather dazed." They looked at each other a moment, a myriad of emotions flying across their faces.

"You did it again sweetheart, saved my life," she said in an emotional, yet pain filled voice.

"How?" he asked in a confused voice. "The last I remember was flying through the air, before everything went black. I do seem to remember hearing you scream though."

"You released my hand, pulled me out of the chair and threw your arms around me. I don't remember much after that except you fell on top of me, and we must have been thrown around pretty good, because we're laying down by the Helm now. How is Harry? Everyone else? Please check, I don't think I can move at the moment."

Chakotay, although still feeling stunned, slowly rose to his feet, turned and limped over to Harry's station. He found him sitting with his back against the wall, staring glassy-eyed into space.

"Harry? Harry you all right?"

"Never felt better Commander," he said in a thick voice. "I guess we made it unless we're having this conversation in Heaven."

Chakotay smiled. Everyone was being a comedian, more from relief at still being alive than anything else. "It looks like we did." He then slapped his Comm Badge. "Chakotay to Delta Flyer, respond."

"Commander? Oh thank God! Oh man, we thought we blew it big time and everyone had died," responded Lt. Underwood.

"You did a great job under the circumstances, Lt. Where are you?"

"We're all landing a short ways from Voyager right now. We had to remain some distance away to avoid all the flying debris."

"Well beam onto Voyager after you're down and start checking the crew. I have a feeling we're all going to need medical help."

"Chakotay . . . Shannon?" whispered Kathryn from her prone position by the Helm.

"Shannon, this is Chakotay, report. Are you all right? How is your crew down there?"

Not hearing any response, Chakotay started limping across the Bridge. "Keep hailing him when you can Kathryn. I'm going down there." As he wended his way across the Bridge he reached up and placed his hand on his head. To paraphrase Kathryn, he had a 'beaut' of a headache also.

When Chakotay reached the area he saw three bodies lying on the deck and feared the worst. However, two stirred when he walked up and as he kneeled beside one realized they all must be badly shaken. Down in this hold, without any protection they probably got thrown around pretty bad.

"We'll be having medical help here pretty soon. Where is Shannon?" he asked.

One man weakly pointed to the Port side and Chakotay hurried over. The landing strut was sticking up through the deck and Chakotay's heart started pounding. Reaching the strut hold he cautiously peered inside. Shannon was there!

"Shannon, can you hear me?"

Slowly Shannon raised his head and looked up at Chakotay. Blood was streaming down his face, but he smiled.

In a pain-wracked voice he croaked, "Would you inform Captain Janeway that she and I are now twins?"

"What do you mean?" asked Chakotay.

"Well, sir, it appears my right leg is pretty well mangled, so while she limps with her left, I'll limp with my right," and his head flopped loosely down as he fainted from the pain.

Slapping his Comm Badge, Chakotay hailed Underwood. "Mark, are you on Voyager yet?"

"We're just getting ready to beam now, Commander."

"There are some pretty seriously injured people. Beam to the Bridge, gather up some Med kits and one of you check the Captain and Harry and after that start checking everyone else in the rooms. I need the rest of you down here in the Landing Strut Hold. Bring lots of Medical Aid, a Bio Cot, and a Laser Cutting Torch. Shannon is trapped down in the hold and he's hurt pretty bad."

"On our way, Commander" Mark replied

"A short time later Ensigns Benedict, Surado, Nakamatsu and Gomez came running into the area.

Chakotay looked up and as Surado and Gomez each stopped by a crewmember to check them, Nakamatsu kneeled by Chakotay.

"Don't bother with me, make a scan on Shannon," he said pointing to the hold
.
She nodded and went to the strut well, and looking down at Shannon ran her Medical TriCorder over his unconscious form from her position on the deck. Chakotay crawled over beside her and asked, "How is he?"

She looked up at him and frowned as she read the TriCorder. "He has a broken left arm, clavicle and left leg, bruised kidney and liver, punctured lung, and a very badly smashed right leg. He's lost a lot of blood and also has numerous contusions, cuts and lacerations."

"Will he make it? He obviously stayed or got caught in that hold during the landing and it's a wonder he didn't get crushed."

"We'll know more when we get him out of there," she said as she lay her TriCorder down on the deck and started to climb down.

Terry Benedict, who like Nakamatsu was small, arrived and also climbed down into the well. She called up to Joel for the Laser cutting torch while Niki administered a sedative to Shannon. For almost an hour the four of them worked feverishly to extricate Shannon. At last Rob and Joel reached down and held him in place, and while Terry applied a 'Body Wrap' around his upper body to use in the extricating process, Niki adjusted her position, then nodding to the two men and Terry, said, "Let's lift him out at the count of three, guys." As she said three all of them either pulled or lifted on Shannon's inert form and despite being unconscious, he screamed from the pain.

Once he was out of the hold they started working on various areas to stabilize him for the move to the Bio Cot and ensuing trip to Sick Bay.

"Sure would be helpful if Voyager's Transporter was working, but I rather imagine not much is working after that crash," muttered Niki as she stood.

Chakotay looked blank for a moment, and then placed a hand on her shoulder.

"Don't feel you did anything wrong Ensign. The ship was a dead weight for the Shuttles' Tractor Beams and I think under the circumstances you all did a great job. Every one of you did the best you could."

"Thank you, Sir, but it still doesn't make me feel any better. I think I was the first one to lose power . . ." and her voice quivered, unable to finish her sentence. Chakotay put his arms around her in an attempt to comfort her, but knew it was something she was going to have to get over in her own way.

After they carried Shannon out into the corridor, Chakotay remembered he could use the Flyer's Transporter through the computer and chided himself harshly on not remembering that earlier. Must be something wrong with his thinking he said to himself.

"Hold him right here," and they stopped and looked at him. Tapping his Comm Badge, he said, "Chakotay to Delta Flyer, lock onto my Comm badge and transport six to Voyager's Sick Bay."

"Understood," responded the computer voice and they shimmered out of sight, materializing in the Sick Bay.

"Neat by-pass, sir," said Niki smiling. Once they had Shannon on a bio bed, Nakamatsu turned to Chakotay with her Medical TriCorder.

"What are you doing?"

"Checking you Sir. You don't look so good."

"I'm fine; I'm just having trouble remembering some things right now. I think I took a knock on the head."

"Yep, you have a concussion, same as the Captain, a pretty bad sprained ankle and wrenched shoulder, multiple bruises and lacerations. I guess you're not feeling anything yet because you're so busy worrying about the rest of the crew."

"How is the Captain?" Chakotay quickly asked."

"Basically okay Sir. She has a mild concussion, a broken shoulder and multiple bumps, bruises and lacerations."

"Fine, keep working here all of you, I'm going to the Bridge and then check on the rest of the crew."

"You should really lay down, sir," cautioned Niki.

"Later, Ensign." he said as he limped away.

As Chakotay made his way onto the Bridge, he found both Kathryn and Harry sitting on the floor together at Harry's station.

Kneeling down he curled his arms around her. Kathryn leaned forward and slipped her arms around his neck and they spent a quiet few moments in the comfort of each other's arms.

"How are Shannon and all the rest?" asked Kathryn, her head nestled against his.

Chakotay pulled back and said, "Shannon is pretty bad, as is Ensign Brooks. The other two have broken bones, concussions and some cuts and bruises, but will be okay. How are you Kathryn?"

"I have a headache. Lt Underwood has already repaired my broken shoulder and the bruises and cuts."

"Harry, how are you?" asked Chakotay while he still kept one arm around Kathryn.

Harry slowly nodded his head. "Just broken vertebrae in the upper back, broken leg and a concussion. But as with the Captain, the Lt has already repaired the broken bones. Said we need to rest with the concussions, though . . . how are you?"

"Sprained ankle, wrenched shoulder and I'm also keeping you two company with a concussion." He moved to lean back against the wall beside Kathryn and all three became quiet.

About an hour later Lt Underwood walked onto the Bridge and squatted down by them.

"Have you finished checking all the Crew, Lt?" asked Kathryn.

"Yes, Captain, all finished."

"Read it to me, please."

Underwood glanced down at his PADD and started. It seemed he would never finish as despite using the mattresses for protection there were still injuries of broken bones, contusions, cuts, bruises, injuries to internal organs and concussions. Underwood looked up at the Captain
.
"A lot of injuries Captain, but it would have been a lot worse had they not had that protection. Also I'm sorry to report there were some fatalities."

Kathryn's eyes snapped up to him. "Who?" she whispered.

"Well the six crew members who were injured in the Pod crashes . . . well, they were just too bad . . . none of them survived . . . I'm sorry," he said softly.

Kathryn placed her hand over her eyes and shook her head.

"Kathryn," said Chakotay softly. "You can't feel responsible. They were back with us and on Voyager and I saw the look in their eyes when we beamed them to Voyager . . . they felt like they were back home."

"I know" she said, the anguish plain in her voice and tears in her eyes, "But it still hurts to lose them. After all they've been through - to be so close to getting help."

"There is more, Captain," said Underwood.

She raised her head. "More fatalities?" she asked in a shocked voice.

"Yes ma'am," said the Lt. "Five more to be exact. For some unknown reason they hadn't gone to the rooms where the protective mattresses had been set up, and also . . ." and he looked over at Chakotay with a very sad expression as he said, "Ensign Brooks down in the Landing Struts area. He had a massive head injury . . . there wasn't anything they could do for him. I'm sorry, sir."

"He was so joyous, so grateful when we recovered Ayala's Pod," said Chakotay. "To be rescued and now die . . ." his voice trailed off without finishing the sentence.

A small moan escaped from Kathryn. "Twelve people," she whispered in a shocked voice. "Oh God," she groaned. Chakotay immediately put his arms around her and held her tight.

"Let it go, Kathryn. Don't feel you have to hold it in. Let it out, Kathryn," he whispered in her ear. Her shoulders started to shake and both Harry and the Lt. left the Bridge to let her release her grief in private.

* * * * *

An hour later Kathryn and Chakotay were visiting the crewmembers in the various rooms and while talking to Ensign Dolan, Chakotay mistakenly referred to her as Lt. DeMont. Kathryn gave him a strange look as he corrected himself. Suddenly Chakotay reached out with his hand as if trying to grab hold of something and said, "Captain I don't feel so good," and collapsed in a heap on the floor.

"Chakotay!" cried out Kathryn. Slapping her Comm Badge, she called, "Medical Emergency, Deck 1, Commander Chakotay has collapsed!"

Disregarding the pain in her leg she knelt down beside him and felt for the pulse in his neck. Seconds later Lt. Underwood appeared and ran a scan.

"He's having a delayed reaction from his concussion, Captain. We have to get him to Sick Bay," he said as he applied a Hypo, which would prevent brain swelling.

Kathryn used the Transporter in the Flyer to transport them to Voyager's Sick Bay where Ensign Kahler, who was looking in on Shannon, helped get Chakotay on a Bio Bed.

"Explain what you mean by 'delayed reaction' Lt.," asked Kathryn as she hovered nearby.

"Well he obviously has a more severe concussion than at first believed, but he was so concerned for you, the crew and Shannon, his mind wasn't recognizing the concussion, so when he relaxed it hit him. He should remain here 24-36 hours Captain . . . and I have to insist on complete rest, and then he'll be okay. No strenuous work for awhile though."

"I'll see to it," said Kathryn as she sat down beside the bed.

Chakotay stirred and opened his eyes. Kathryn squeezed his hand and when he turned his head and saw her he smiled and said, "Hi."

"Hi yourself. How are you feeling?"

"I'm okay. Why am I in Sick Bay?" he said looking around.

"You passed out from your concussion. Complete rest has been ordered for about 36 hours and I'm going to see to it that order is followed," she said in a command tone.

Chakotay half smiled. "My head is really pounding, so at the moment I'm not even going to attempt to argue with you. How are you doing?"

"I'm better. A little tired. I've ordered everyone to just relax for the rest of today and tonight. Lt Underwood and Ensign Nakamatsu are still taking care of some of the injuries. We'll have the memorial service at sunset tomorrow. Harry told me a bit ago that there is a nice hill a short ways from here with some trees and it is facing in the direction of the Alpha Quadrant."

"Sounds appropriate," he said. Squeezing her hand he said, "I want to attend that service, regardless. You look very tired, why don't you go out to the Flyer and get a good night's sleep?"

"I'm not leaving you sweetheart. There is one empty bed here and that's where I'll spend tonight. Also, Chakotay, I've given orders that the morning after the service all Engineers and Maintenance crew members are to go over Voyager, run diagnostics and visually inspect every square inch of her and report to me the feasibility of whether she is repairable and or flyable. While they do that, you and I could fly to that city that is 300 kilometers away and see about obtaining supplies and equipment and look for our . . ."

"Objection," interrupted Chakotay. "I'll fly to the city. You stay here and are in charge of any repairs that we can start. They will need your opinion on many matters, so you need to be here. Besides, we wouldn't make good time walking with your bad leg, and you know I'll slow down to take care of you." He stopped and looked at her, "And yes, I'll look for the Pods and Tuvok while I'm there. Now as Captain you know my decision is the right one," he said with an impish smile.

"I think I should go with you . . . but I see your point. There will be a lot of questions asked. All right I'll stay here on this trip and oversee the inspection, but I go on the next one, understood Commander," she said with a gentle laugh.

He just smiled and closed his eyes. "Can't seem to keep my eyes open," he said softly and soon was asleep. Kathryn smiled, rose and walked out into the corridor. Tapping her badge she said, "Harry are you there?"

"Right here, Captain. I'm in one of the crew's quarters and helping these people get more comfortable. Everyone seems to be bedding down, following your orders."

"Good. I'll be in Sick Bay with Chakotay if you need me for anything. Goodnight Harry, see you in the morning."

"Goodnight Captain."

* * * * *

The next evening, with the sun sitting on the horizon, the service for the twelve crewmembers was held. Markers, with their names engraved, marked the final resting place of these people. Everyone stood about, silently murmuring to one another. Chakotay and Kathryn, per Lt. Underwood's directions, beamed out just before the start of the service. Both said a few words, but left most of the service for the friends of the departed to share their memories with everyone.

Following the service as everyone wandered back to Voyager, Niki Nakamatsu stood by herself on the hilltop, tears streaming down her face as she stared at all the markers. Terry Benedict seeing this turned and walked back, putting her arm around Niki's shoulders.

"It's not our fault Niki. Voyager was just too heavy for the shuttle's Tractor Beams."

"I know, but there just had to be something we didn't do," she said as sobs wracked her body.

Kathryn and Chakotay, waiting off to one side to beam back, saw this and their hearts went out to Niki. "There must be something we can do to help her Chakotay," Kathryn whispered.

"Right now she has her friend Terry and it's something she has to work out herself. I talked to her briefly yesterday and I'll talk to her again, but she has to get her grief out now and Terry is helping her do that."

Kathryn and Chakotay then beamed back to Sick Bay, and first checked on Shannon, who was still unconscious, in critical condition and undergoing an operation by Lt Underwood. They then lied down, with Kathryn in the bunk next to Chakotay and were soon asleep.

Early the next morning Chakotay, who was now feeling better after two nights in Sick Bay, left for the nearby City while Kathryn started the crew on inspecting every square inch of Voyager, informing them to check every seam and rivet.

As Chakotay neared the city he made a scan, to check not only on the situation, but to find a place to land the Flyer fairly near the edge of the city. As he walked down the street, some people turned and stared at him while others just hurried on by, intent on their own business. He stopped by one friendly-looking merchant's stand and asked where he might find the person in charge and also where he might find equipment to repair ships. The merchant, without looking up, merely nodded his head in a general direction and Chakotay continued on his way.

As he walked his eyes were alert to all faces in the event he just might 'stumble' onto a member of Voyager's crew. Finally he came to a rather officious looking building and entered, asked to speak to the person in charge and was politely directed to a room on the third floor. Tapping on the open door alerted a man at a desk, who after determining what Chakotay wanted, led him into another room and introduced him to Prefect Korado.

"Good morning sir. You must be from that ship that crashed three days ago."

Chakotay could barely conceal his surprise. "You know?"

"Oh yes, and if we did not hear from any representative by noon today we would have sent out a scout ship to investigate. So what may I do for you?"

"Well obviously we need equipment to repair our ship, and . . ."

"Consider it done. You may have anything you wish."

Chakotay smiled at this generous offer but added, "I'm afraid we don't have anything to offer except to work off some of the expense."

"We shall discuss the barter tomorrow. I will send out a crew in the morning to examine your ship and determine just exactly what you need."

Chakotay felt overwhelmed. "That is very gracious of you. Is this planet always so helpful to strangers?"

"Oh yes. We have many travelers, as we are in a situation where people have traveled many months trying to find a planet. We find being helpful actually helps us in the long run."

"There is something else I would like to ask," said Chakotay

Prefect Korado nodded his head and waited.

"Are you aware of several Escape Pods landing or crashing anywhere near here?"

"Escape Pods you say?" He pursed his lips for a moment and seemed to be thinking. "No not in this hemisphere," he finally said. "However there was one report from the southern hemisphere quite some time back of some strange objects in the sky, but no further word ever came."

Chakotay felt tremendous excitement at this news. "Where in the southern hemisphere?" he asked. How far is it? What city?"

"Slow down young man," he said smiling. "I will give you that information. First of all it is the City of Diallo, which is 3500 kilometers north from here. We do not have much contact with them but I believe the occupants are friendly enough to strangers."

"Thank you very much," said Chakotay with a big grin. I will go there tomorrow after your visit."

"Tomorrow then," smiled Prefect Korado.

Chakotay left the office buoyed by the hope he might actually find the rest of the crew. Kathryn would be delighted to hear this news. As he started to leave he heard someone calling.

"Commander! Commander Chakotay." Turning he saw the Prefects assistant hurrying to him.

"The Prefect has just made a call and actually he would like to send out a crew this afternoon if that is all right with you."

"Fine," said Chakotay with a big smile. "This afternoon it is." Instead of browsing around the city he headed straight for his shuttle.

Arriving back at Voyager, Chakotay landed the Flyer and hurried over to Kathryn. She was standing outside talking to Harry, Ensigns Kahler and Durkin. As she turned to look at him she broke into a large smile.

"Back so soon Chakotay, you look excited."

"Good news Kathryn. I met with Prefect Korado and he is sending out a crew to inspect the ship this afternoon." Chakotay told her all about the meeting and the report of the strange objects.

"We're going there tomorrow Chakotay!" said Kathryn very excitedly. Just then several ships appeared on the horizon, including one extremely large, black one. One of the smaller ships swooped down to land and Prefect Korado stepped out. Chakotay promptly introduced him to Kathryn as many more ships appeared and landed.

"This looks like an Armada, Prefect," said Kathryn with a frown.

"We have a crew of fifty workers who will inspect Voyager from top to bottom and determine in short order what you will need." At that he looked up into the sky and nodded. "It is best you have your crew move away," he said as he looked down at the Captain. She immediately ordered everyone to stand away from Voyager, even though not sure what the Prefect was going to do, but Chakotay had said they would help.

Then both she and Chakotay looked up and saw the huge black ship positioning itself directly above Voyager. Shortly its tractor beam was engaged and Voyager started lifting off the ground as if it were a feather!

Workers from the other ships which had now all landed immediately started running with various and sundry 'sticks' and darted under Voyager even as it were still being lifted, and started fitting these 'sticks' together like an erector set. Within minutes it seemed there were several forms sitting directly under the ship and the alien black ship started lowering Voyager, with one worker guiding it with hand signals.

"Prefect, are you sure those forms will hold Voyager? She weighs 700,000 metric tons!" exclaimed Kathryn.

The Prefect smiled. "I assure you Captain they will easily hold Voyager. See for yourself."

Kathryn again looked at Voyager and was stunned to see it now firmly nestled on the forms about 8 feet off the ground and the workers now moving about as they pointed instruments up at Voyager. Little ships darted about over the top of her, sometimes remaining motionless like a helicopter while a worker leaned out.

"I can't believe how fast they did that," muttered Harry.

"We have had much practice Ensign. Many ships crash on our planet. There is something different about our gravity that seems to make ships weigh more and land too fast."

Kathryn immediately looked at Chakotay and said, "That needs to be explained to our pilots, especially Niki." He nodded and said it certainly explained what happened.

Twenty minutes later a worker came over and handed a Padd to the Prefect. He nodded as he read it, handed it to Kathryn and mentioned they now had a list of equipment and supplies they would need to repair Voyager and added to her unspoken question, yes . . . it could be repaired.

"How did you do this so fast Prefect? I have had my workers inside all morning and we just now moved outside to check for structural problems."

She handed the Padd to Harry and asked him to compare it with what they had determined.

"We are a very advanced society, Captain, due no doubt to so many ships and nationalities having all types of equipment."

"Captain this is almost identical to our list!" said an astounded Harry. "Plus, they have added things that we might actually need."

Kathryn turned back to Prefect Korado and said, "We don't have anything to offer in trade except our help in repairing Voyager."

"You have a Transporter system that interests us very much Captain. In exchange for all the equipment and assistance in your repairs, we would like this technology. You see we are very crowded within our cities and have been developing a transport system from one area to another to alleviate so many ships in the air. Your Transporter system answers our question and could also be enhanced to transport our citizens from one city to the other as we are so spread out. If you could share this information we will be most appreciative."

After a great deal more discussion, and using the Flyer's Transporter to take the Prefect on board Voyager for a personal investigation, it was agreed he would be provided the information for this technology. In exchange, besides providing all the equipment, supplies and workers, the Prefect also said he would give Kathryn two of their diagnostic tools, which were obviously much higher technology than what she had. It was agreed work would start at 0700 in the morning.

* * * *

At exactly 0700 hours, a large group of 50 workers showed up. Voyager's number was only 35 and Kathryn had wanted a ratio of one to one, but felt confident everything was actually compatible with the assignments she and Chakotay had drawn up after dinner.

At 0830 hours, after watching the work proceed efficiently, Kathryn had no qualms about leaving and after putting Harry in charge, she and Chakotay headed for Diallo at Warp 4.

As they flew over Diallo Kathryn scanned for any Pod or Starfleet signatures, but found none. She didn't feel disappointed however, as the signatures would have dissipated by now. Instead she felt puzzled sensors didn't show any readout of Starfleet equipment. "Maybe the gravity also affects our sensors," she mumbled to Chakotay, who just nodded.

After landing the two of them walked into the city and started using their scanners as discreetly as they could. After two hours and a frustrated Captain, Chakotay decided they needed a rest and stepped inside a small shop and asked for a drink of water. As they sat in the square enjoying the fresh air Chakotay suddenly stood, grabbed Kathryn's hand and started across the area.

"What is it? What did you see Chakotay?" said Kathryn as she struggled gamely to keep up.

Chakotay suddenly stopped and said quite sharply, "Mr. Paris you're out of uniform!"

Tom Paris whirled around, mouth agape in shock. "Oh my God . . . I don't believe this . . . Captain, Chakotay, you're alive!"

"Indeed we are Tom," said a happy Kathryn.

B'Elanna sat rooted to the spot in her chair, totally frozen, unable to move or say anything. Kathryn limped around the table to her and only then did B'Elanna react, jumping up and hugging Kathryn tightly. Turning to Chakotay she did the same, while tears trickled down her cheek. "I never thought I would see you two again."

"How many of you are here Tom?" asked Chakotay.

"There are thirty-nine of us, Chakotay."

"Oh sweetheart, I can hardly wait to get back to Voyager and tell the rest we found them!"

"Whoa, whoa . . . back up, reverse Thrusters here. Sweetheart? Voyager?" asked Tom.

Kathryn and Chakotay both laughed. "Boy do we have a story to tell you," said Kathryn. "Let's go find the crew. I'm anxious to see them as well as Mr. Tuvok."

Both B'Elanna and Tom stared at their Captain a moment, and then looked awkwardly at one another.

"What's wrong? What's happened to Tuvok?" asked Kathryn.

"Well you see Captain," said B'Elanna hesitantly, "Tuvok is no longer with us. He just up and left us about two weeks ago."

Kathryn stood in total shock staring at B'Elanna. "What . . . ?" She shook her head, cleared her throat and started again. "What do you mean Tuvok left you?" she said in a whisper.

"Just that Captain" said Tom. "He suddenly said he felt unworthy of being our leader, turned on his heel and walked out. We haven't seen him since."

"Every day all thirty-four of us come into town and look for him but we haven't even had a sniff of where he is," said B'Elanna.

"Is that all he said, he didn't give any reason why he felt that way?" asked Kathryn, still unable to comprehend what she was hearing.

Chakotay suddenly spoke up. "I think I see where he was coming from, Kathryn. He had a Pod shot down by the Maradi, lost contact with Lt Ayala's Pod, lost ten Pod's on that last planet and . . . wait . . . Tom you said Thirty-nine and just now B'Elanna said Thirty-four. You have lost five crew members I take it."

Both Tom and B'Elanna nodded their heads and Tom added, "They were injured when we landed. Even the EMH couldn't save them."

"Well that's it Kathryn. Don't you see? He feels he failed with all those deaths. As a Vulcan who expects perfection out of himself, he . . ."

"He's having the Vulcan version of what we term a mental breakdown! Of course that's it Chakotay! But those deaths weren't his fault. That Ion storm and Navigational problems tore up those ten Pods on the last planet."

Turning to Tom and B'Elanna she smiled. "Incidentally, we found those ten pods and although they lost twenty-seven crewmen in the crash landing and subsequently six more, forty-seven survived . . . including Harry who is at Voyager right now overseeing repairs."

"Harry's all right! Oh thank God . . . I thought it was his Pod that was shot down," exclaimed Tom.

"And Harry thought it was your Pod that was shot down," added Kathryn. "You mentioned the Dr. He's with you then? And Seven?"

"Yes Captain, although we keep the Doctor turned off unless we need him. Needless to say he doesn't like that," said B'Elanna. "As for Seven . . . she's here, although she's not been feeling well the last couple of days. She's . . . well you'll see for yourself, but she's changed, Captain."

"Well let's go to where you are staying. We want to see everyone and tell him or her Voyager is still alive. And Tom, do you still have your Pods or did you dismantle them?" asked Kathryn.

"We still have them. They are hidden about ten kilometers outside of town. We didn't know whether we might have to use them again."

"Good. After we meet with the group, we can crowd about ten of you in the Flyer. The rest will fly the five Pods back to Voyager. As you say, we might need them again, it's still a long way back to the Alpha Quadrant," said Kathryn and they headed out. Along the way, as had become normal, they had to stop several times to let Kathryn rest her leg.

"Maybe the Doctor can help with your leg, Captain," said B'Elanna.

"Maybe - time will tell. If he can't so be it. I'm alive, thanks to Chakotay," Kathryn said as she reached out for his hand, "And I can live with it."

When they arrived at the complex where the group was staying, everyone was stunned to see the Captain and Commander walk in, and a high level of excitement at not only their survival, but also the news Voyager had not crashed quickly followed. While gathering their belongings and starting the hike out to the Pods, Chakotay beamed himself to the Flyer and flew over the city using his sensors to see if he could locate Tuvok. Not finding any sign of him he flew back, located the group out of town and saved them the long walk by shuttling groups to the Pods, keeping the last ten on board. Once the Pods were airborne the Flyer turned and headed for Voyager.

As they drew near Voyager Kathryn hailed the ship. "Janeway to Ensign Kim."

"Kim here. You're back early Captain. Any luck?"

"Harry, have all the Starfleet personnel start gathering outside the ship."

"Yes Captain, right away. Problem?"

"Just follow your orders Harry," she said in a stern voice, yet smiling at Chakotay."

"Yes ma'am, putting out the hail now."

The Flyer swooped around Voyager letting the ten crewmen take a look, headed back out a few kilometers to check on the Pods, then turned back to Voyager. Seeing most of the crew gathered outside, Kathryn used a broad band to hail them.

"This is Captain Janeway. In about five minutes, if you look to the southeast you will see something that pleases you."

Chakotay landed the Flyer close by Voyager and they all sat and waited. Soon they saw someone point up in the air and shortly all heads were looking in that direction. As they recognized the incoming Pods, broad smiles, punching the air and each other and yells of excitement permeated the air.

"This is Chakotay calling Paris. Do you see Voyager?"

"Oh boy, yes sir, what a beautiful sight, even such as she is."

"Chakotay to Harry. We want the Pods to land in the Escape Pod Hatches. Are there any open and available without endangering the workers?"

"Yes sir!" said Harry unable to control the glee in his voice. "On the Port side. I'll contact Zary . . . he is up top on Voyager and he can guide them in from there. Oh wow this is fantastic!"

"Chakotay to Paris. There will be five hatches open for you on the Port side. A worker or workers will signal you where. I hope your Navigational Systems are working properly."

"No problem sir. This will be as easy as water rolling off a ducks back."

Chakotay grinned. Tom hadn't changed! Turning to his group of ten he told them they could debark and meet some old friends, and after opening the hatch they leapt out and ran to the Voyager group. Kathryn watched them with a large smile on her face.

"We've done it sweetheart. We have most of our family back."

He slipped his arm around her waist and nodded his head. "This is great. Better than I hoped, actually. We've lost quite a few but by my count we have 94 crewmen back. Not bad for being spread out and apart for months."

Kathryn bent her head and kissed his cheek. "And when Voyager is repaired, everything will be complete with one exception. Honey, we have to find Tuvok."

"I know. But we also have to spend more time here or Prefect Korado will wonder about us. I'll explain things to him and we'll search for Tuvok every morning and spend the afternoons here. Sound okay, hon?"

"Agreed. Look at them greeting each other!" said Kathryn as they watched slaps on the back, hugs, yells of excitement and big smiles. "Isn't that heartwarming!

"Do you remember when the Kazon stole Voyager and we thought we were going to be stuck on that planet for the rest of our lives?"

Chakotay laughed. "Yes, and you were stuck with the only Indian who couldn't light . . . say haven't we told that story before?"

Kathryn laughed. "I'm not sure, but the way they are greeting each other reminds me of the sight of Voyager coming back. We all rushed to greet her like an old friend."

"Yes and it was Tom who brought it back. Now we're bringing him back to Voyager. Hey, to me that means I get one of my lives back from Tom. Remind me to tell him that!" and they both sat laughing while watching the reunion out of the Flyer window.

* * * * *

Kathryn and Chakotay followed their schedule for the next two days of flying out to Diallo in the morning and searching for Tuvok and spending the afternoons helping on repairs of Voyager. On the morning of the third day, they were having a cool drink while sitting in the shade on the City Plaza.

Chakotay leaned his head back and looked up at the building before him. It was a rather large structure, several stories high. Just then there was a flash of reflected light from a passing ship that zapped across the building. Chakotay bolted upright.

"What is it Chakotay?" asked Kathryn.

"I thought I saw something . . . a silhouette . . ." Chakotay continued to stare up at the building, but all windows were dark. He stood, reached for Kathryn's hand and said, "Let's go."

"Where?"

"I want to check that building. Third floor, fifth window from the left," he mused more to himself than to Kathryn. Upon reaching the third floor they moved quietly down the hallway. Chakotay stopped and using his TriCorder scanned at the door, nodded at Kathryn, then reached out and rapped his knuckles on the frame.

"Tuvok! This is Chakotay. I want to talk to you."

There wasn't any response and Kathryn joined in. "Tuvok, this is Captain Janeway. Please open the door."

Still there was no response or sound.

"Come on Tuvok. We know you're in there and that you recognize our voices. We didn't die and Voyager didn't crash. Now open up please," said Chakotay.

Again no sound, so Chakotay looked at Kathryn and said, "I wonder if he used his Voyager code," and after punching in those numbers on the door panel, he smiled at Kathryn as the door silently slid open. Chakotay stepped into the doorway and stared around the dark room. Catching sight of a slight movement to his right he took a couple of steps in that direction.

"Tuvok?" he said.

"Tuvok, we know it's you," said Kathryn softly. "Please speak to us."

There was a movement by the wall and Chakotay instinctively stepped in front of Kathryn. A silhouette appeared against the backdrop of the light from the window, unmistakably Tuvok.

"Captain, Commander, I am grateful you both did not perish. It is also good to hear Voyager is still here."

"Tuvok," said Kathryn as she stepped out beside Chakotay. "Come back with us. B'Elanna told us why you left. Those deaths were not your fault."

"I was derelict in my duty Captain. They should not have occurred."

"They were not your fault Tuvok," spoke up Chakotay. "From what we've pieced together, the Pod that was shot down was Lt. Astin, and he was always a rather rebellious person in the Maquis. Once he made up his mind to start down you couldn't have stopped him. Maybe he was just crazed in the mind from that long a period without seeing a planet, we'll never know. Also, we found Lt Ayala's Pod and all ten are with us."

"And we found Harry Kim," continued Kathryn, "and the ten Pods that crashed on the last planet. They were caught in that Ion storm and in the first few minutes lost their Navigational System and couldn't escape, so they headed down to the planet. Unfortunately they didn't have much control in that storm, and were battered pretty badly on the way down and crashed. Sadly, they lost twenty-seven and later six more to injuries. But the survivors are all at Voyager now helping with the repairs."

"Now we have found your group here," said Chakotay, "and they are already working at Voyager. Tuvok, we have recovered ninety-four of our crew plus Voyager. She refused to die and when she is repaired will continue to take us back to Earth. Come back with us, come back to Voyager and your friends," said Chakotay softly.

"I am grateful to hear you have recovered so many, but still there were fifty individuals who lost their lives and I hold myself accountable for those deaths," said Tuvok.

"As I said Tuvok," said Kathryn, "You are not responsible for those deaths. Now come back with us."

Tuvok remained quiet for a few minutes and finally said, "I would be grateful if you could provide me passage on Voyager so that I may return home. I will work in the Cargo Bay or clean. . . ."

"Stow that talk Mister!" barked Kathryn. "You are a Lt. Commander on the Federation Starship Voyager and I expect you to perform those duties according to Starfleet Regulations and your own oath as an Officer!"

Tuvok could actually be seen blinking at the stern tone of Kathryn's voice. Kathryn then softened her tone as she continued, "Tuvok, you are my friend and counsel, I need you, Chakotay needs you, Voyager needs you, and everyone on Voyager wants you back. Your group spent every day searching for you. Please, we have told you of recovering all those crewmen. Come back with us."

Chakotay, despite knowing Vulcan's do not like to be touched, stepped forward and placed a hand firmly on Tuvok's shoulder. "Tuvok, you know Kathryn has told you the truth, that she doesn't lie. So what about it? As a Vulcan . . . you know this is the logical thing to do."

If a Vulcan could ever show emotion, Tuvok's clenching and unclenching his jaws showed the battle that was raging inside him. At last he nodded his head. "I will go back, but I request you allow me to talk to the crew before I step back inside Voyager. I must tell them I . . ." and he hesitated briefly.

Both Kathryn and Chakotay sucked in their breaths waiting to see if he was still going to call himself a failure and say he was responsible.

". . . I am saddened at the number of losses, but grateful circumstances have provided for the regrouping of so many survivors and Voyager's continued journey home. However, they must know that I will always feel a certain amount of blame for not providing a safe passage during our time in the Pods."

Chakotay squeezed Tuvok's shoulder and looked at Kathryn. "I think we can arrange that Tuvok, but I think you will be surprised - if Vulcan's can be surprised - by the crew's reception when they see you are back, don't you agree Kathryn."

Kathryn smiled. "I'm quite sure we can surprise our Vulcan friend."

Tuvok nodded and said, "Then I am ready. I have nothing in this room."

As they left the building Kathryn asked, "Tuvok, I am curious about one thing however. What happened to your Comm Badge?"

"I threw it in the first Waste Replicator I came upon after leaving the group, Captain."

Kathryn shook her head and both she and Chakotay laughed loudly. "I see nothing humorous about that," said Tuvok. "It was the . . . logical thing to do."

This only made Kathryn and Chakotay laugh all the harder. Soon they were back on the Flyer and heading for Voyager.

* * * * *

As Voyager showed on Sensors, Kathryn hailed Harry. "Mr. Kim, would you please gather all of Voyager's crew members . . . I believe up on the hill would be an appropriate place."

"Right away, Captain. Did you find Commander Tuvok?"

"As I have told you before Harry, just follow orders. We will be landing in approximately five minutes."

"Yes ma'am," was Harry's response, but his tone appeared to carry a knowing smile.

By the time Chakotay landed the Flyer, the entire group of Voyager crewmen could be seen gathered on top the hill. All three of them moved to the back of the Flyer and transported to the hill. At the sight of Tuvok a crescendo of cheers, yells and calls of 'Welcome Back' were heard. Tom started clapping and was soon joined by everyone. As the group quieted down, even all the workers on Voyager stopped working and became quiet, realizing something special was happening.

Tuvok stood looking out at the sea of smiling faces. He looked back at Kathryn and Chakotay who were smiling broadly and nodded his head, an acknowledgment of 'Vulcan Surprise' at the greeting. He faced the crew again and clenched his fists at his side. Finally he spoke.

"I told the Captain and Commander I would rejoin Voyager if I were allowed to speak to all of you first," he started. "I am gratified to see so many of you have survived the various misfortunes of our travels, but," and he turned and looked at the twelve markers dotting the hillside, "I am well aware of the losses of your friends and shipmates resting here and at the last planet, and the pain you must feel. We cannot, however, bring them back and as such, in Vulcan terms, grieving serves no purpose, but I do understand what you have gone through."

He hesitated again as he looked at the markers. "Humans have a word called 'forgive' and I hope that in time you will find it in your hearts to forgive me for not being able to prevent these deaths."

At that statement Neelix took two steps forward and said, "Well Mr. Vulcan, do not expect forgiveness from me. No sir! Those deaths were not your fault and in Talaxian terms 'there is nothing to forgive'."

"Yeah," called out Tom. "I agree with Neelix. You didn't do anything to cause their deaths. As a matter of fact, you didn't do anything wrong so there is nothing to forgive, Tuvok, and I think if you went to everybody here," he said swinging his arm in a wide arc, "And asked them they would say the same thing, so in my irreverent humor I say, 'lighten up Tuvok' and welcome back!"

Yells of welcome back erupted from the gathering, effectively ending Tuvok's planned apology. Kathryn and Chakotay stood there, beaming with pride, along with a stray tear or two coursing its way down their cheeks. Tuvok stood looking at the gathering while clenching and unclenching his jaw and hands, in an obvious fight to control his outward facade.

As they quieted down he said, "If a Vulcan could smile you would see that now."

Neelix called out, "Oh go ahead and smile Mr. Vulcan - we won't tell anyone!"

"I am smiling Mr. Neelix," Tuvok retorted, causing everyone to laugh, and followed that by saying, "Thank you all. I am . . . gratified at your support."

Kathryn stepped forward and patted Tuvok on the back. "All right everyone, we have our crew back and Voyager is anxious to fly again, so let's get back to work." Immediately noise filled the air as all the workers on Voyager got back to their repairs and the Voyager crew headed back to join them.

With all the crew now back, work progressed nicely the next two days. Kathryn and Chakotay were on the Bridge checking on their reconstructed command chairs when Kim hailed them, saying he had a repair question and could they meet him at Captain Janeway's quarters.

When they arrived Harry was standing with Zary, and smiling he said, "I was wondering, Captain," then he stopped and seemed to blush. "Well I guess there isn't any easy way to say it so I'll just ask. As you and the Commander are a couple I was wondering if you wanted a door between your two quarters or just maybe knock out the bulkhead completely and make it one big room. No one would know. I give you my word, I wouldn't tell anyone, nor would Zary."

Zary nodded his head. "Our culture does not believe in passing on information that is private. It is considered a sacred trust to be told information that cannot be passed on, so you needn't worry about me, Captain."

Kathryn turned and looked at Chakotay. He stood there with as impassive a look as he could muster, but inside Kathryn knew he was shouting 'yes'! She respected that he was not showing nor saying anything, leaving the decision up to her. Turning back to Harry she said quietly, "An arch, Mr. Kim, a wide, double-sized arch."

"Yes ma'am," he said with a smile. "A door . . . ?"

"I believe I would like a sliding door, Mr. Kim, and -- without a lock."

Harry turned to Zary and said, "You got that Zary?"

Zary immediately turned to the wall and pointing his tool at the wall ran it horizontally the length of the wall, walked to a mid spot and looking at Kathryn said, "About here, Captain?"

"Exactly there Mr. Zary," she said with a smile and as she turned to head back to the Bridge Zary pulled out another instrument made two marks on the wall and before Kathryn and Chakotay were out the door a cut had been made from the floor to a height of eight feet.

As they walked down the corridor Kathryn chuckled. "That arch will be finished before we even get in the Turbolift. And stop gloating Chakotay. Actually," she said in a seductive tone, "I'm looking forward to this evening."

Chakotay's eyes opened wide and he smiled. While in the Turbolift the Doctor hailed, asking them to come to Sick Bay. Fearing something had happened to Shannon they stepped up their pace.

"Ah, that was fast. Quite a change Captain, I must say."

"What is it Doctor?" asked Janeway ignoring his remark. "Is there something wrong with Ensign Shannon?"

"Shannon? No my treatment and surgical repairs are progressing nicely. He might not even have a limp, thanks to my expertise, which brings me to you. When are you going to let me start working on your leg Captain? You obviously have time right now for me to at least start."

"Now is not a good time, Doctor."

"Why not Kathryn?" asked Chakotay. "You can answer all questions and make decisions from here. It's not like you are going to be laid up in here indefinitely."

"Certainly not!" she sputtered.

"About an hour or two a day is all I would require," responded the Doctor.

Kathryn hesitated. Her leg had been paining her more and more every day and if he could at least alleviate that she would be able to move about the ship more readily. "All right, she finally said. "Tomorrow, then."

"I was thinking more like right now, Captain."

"Tomorrow."

"Now."

"Doctor, I said . . ."

"Kathryn!" said Chakotay in an exasperated tone.

Kathryn looked at both of them. "You two are ganging up on me!"

"Of course, what else has a Doctor to do except badger his Captain," said the EMH.

Sighing she agreed to have the first treatment, and both the Doctor and Chakotay looked at one another with smug grins.

* * * * *

In mid afternoon Prefect Korado flew in, ostensibly to check on the progress of the repairs. After a time of moving throughout the ship with Zary he asked the whereabouts of Captain Janeway and was directed to the Sick Bay.

"Captain! Are you not well?" he asked as he quickly walked into Sick Bay.

"No I'm fine Prefect. The Doctor just felt that now was a good time to start treatment on my leg as repairs are coming along so beautifully. I can't thank you enough for all you and your workers have done."

"It is our pleasure to help, Captain," he smiled. "And speaking of repairs, that is why I looked you up. Zary tells me all repairs will be complete within the hour, and . . ."

Kathryn bolted upright. "An hour! Oh my God, I didn't realize they were that close to being finished!"

Prefect Korado just smiled. "We are fast and efficient, Captain. Tests have been run, as well as diagnostics by your Harry Kim - a lovely young man incidentally - and basically the only thing left in a few minutes is a test flight, for your crew to check out all systems."

Kathryn looked at the Doctor, who in a show of resignation put aside his instrument. "You are finished - for today, Captain."

Forty-five minutes later everyone was aboard Voyager. Prefect Korado had suggested he and his workers go along to help check all systems and as Tom started up the engines, Kathryn and Chakotay couldn't help break out in big smiles. Then as Voyager lifted off the supports, everyone on the Bridge started clapping.

The flight included use of all Impulse engines, Warp all the way to 9.7, a brief test of the ships Phaser's in a desolate area of space, and Navigational Systems, Communication, everything Kathryn could think of. The last test was on their return, to land using the Landing Struts. As the ship settled on the ground, Kathryn looked at the Prefect with a large smile on her face.

"Absolutely unbelievable. Everything worked perfectly Prefect! I just don't know how to thank you and all the workers, you are all geniuses."

Zary immediately moved up beside Prefect Korado and nodded his head. The Prefect looked at Captain Janeway, his face taking on a stern, frowning countenance, and as he drew himself up to his full seven feet, said softly "Actually, Captain Janeway, there is something else we need from you . . ."

Kathryn quickly glanced at Chakotay and noticed he had unobtrusively slid his hand down beside his chair and already grasped his Phaser, and she slowly stood and faced Prefect Korado.

"What exactly do you mean by 'something more you want' Prefect?" she asked her eyes narrowing.

The Prefect looked at Chakotay. "Now really Commander, there is no need for your firearm I assure you."

"Well your statement had rather ominous overtones to it Prefect," said
Kathryn. "As First Officer it is his duty to protect the Captain. After all the misfortunes we have previously had with various races in this quadrant, we are rather leery."

"Suspicious is a better term than ominous, Captain. After all we have done, it seems you don't trust us."

"Then perhaps you should explain what else it is you want."

"I think it would be in our best interest if we retire to your Ready Room, Captain, where we can discuss this in private."

Kathryn looked at this man, who had such a peaceful and calm looking countenance. Had she misjudged him because of his eagerness to help? Was this a trap or . . . ?

"All right Prefect, but I think it would be in my best interest for Chakotay to bring his Phaser with him until we find out what you are after," and she turned and headed for her Ready Room with the Prefect and Zary following.

Chakotay pulled the Phaser out of its hiding place and started after them. The rest of the Bridge tensed, as they had heard the exchange and now seeing Chakotay carrying a Phaser, made them selves ready for any eventuality.

As Kathryn walked by Tuvok's station she smiled to herself as she saw one of his fingers lying quietly on the Security Panel. As the doors to her Ready Room closed, Kathryn moved to the far end and turned to face Prefect Korado. Chakotay remained just inside the door, Phaser at the ready.

"Captain, I guess I understand your uneasiness after what you have been through and perhaps I stated myself poorly, but I just wanted to show you this," and he reached inside his jacket.

"Slowly!" called Chakotay from behind. "I'm sorry, but bring your hand out nice and slow, Prefect."

"As you wish. This is a most disconcerting lack of trust, Captain. And Zary has also observed your crewmen's lack of patience in making repairs and resorting to a lot of angry yelling, as if that would make things better."

Kathryn couldn't help herself and laughed. "It's a release of tension when you get frustrated at something that is not going right. You would be surprised at how well that actually works sometimes."

Prefect Korado merely looked at Zary and asked, "Are you sure?" Zary nodded his head and said he was very sure.

Kathryn frowned at that exchange, but the Prefect was now drawing his hand out of his jacket. "I have a Padd, Commander, and I assure you it won't shoot or explode."

Chakotay moved to one side, nodded his head and although lowering his Phaser, still kept alert for any suspicious move.

"Captain, as I said on the Bridge a few moments ago there is something else, something we need to discuss. But this matter first. I am sure you were aware that as our workers helped on Voyager's repairs we became intimately involved in all her systems and thus learned everything about your ship."

"Yes, I was aware of that, but there wasn't much we could do about it as we needed your assistance."

"Well the workers reported their knowledge of your systems to me each day and they were recorded, as well as various ideas about them." As he handed the Padd to Kathryn he continued with, "As you look at that list you will see what ideas I mean."

As Kathryn started reading the Padd, her mouth slowly opened and soon her eyebrows disappeared into her hairline. She looked up at the Prefect in complete shock and handed the Padd to Chakotay.

"Prefect, those 'ideas' as you call them, they . . ." and she stopped and looked at Chakotay. As he read through the list his Tattoo seemed to disappear in the wrinkles on his forehead as he too raised his eyebrows in shock.

"Kathryn, these are possible enhancements that will shorten our journey if I'm reading this right!"

"I'm sure you understand these are just ideas, or 'enhancements' as you call them, Captain, and once your Lt. Torres reads them . . . well she seems a very bright woman and I'm sure she can adapt these ideas into actuality. Our society does not allow us to pass on actual improvements to the ships we repair, but 'ideas', without explicit explanation, are allowed. Certainly, if they are properly read and adapted, your journey would be cut very short. You have mentioned you are about fifteen years from the Alpha Quadrant, and who knows, by this time next year you could be home at your planet Earth."

"Prefect I don't know what to say. I apologize profusely for our earlier suspicions. After all you had done to react like that . . ."

"Apology accepted Captain. As I said, I possibly misstated and caused your concern. We like you and have grown quite fond of your crew. You are unique individuals and what we are doing for Voyager seldom happens with other ships; we want you to understand that."

Kathryn rubbed at her forehead. "I feel like such a fool. May I offer the two of you some coffee?"

"Coffee?"

"Yes, it is a delicious drink," and she turned and looked at Chakotay . . ."Despite what my First Officer thinks," she said with a chuckle.

After she handed cups to both the Prefect and Zary they took a sip and immediately frowned.

"It's an acquired taste," Kathryn hastily added.

The Prefect took one more sip and placed the cup down on Kathryn's desk. "Now to the matter we wish to discuss."

"There's more?" asked a surprised Kathryn.

"Well this is what I was referring to on the Bridge when I said there was one more thing we needed. I am not sure how to state this, but in our society our young men sometimes move on to enlarge their knowledge, and Zary has expressed an interest in joining your crew and going with you to Earth."

Without meaning to seem shocked, Kathryn sat down hard on her chair. "Do you allow your people to leave like this? He is such an extremely talented young man. How could you let someone like that just up and leave?"

"Well yes Zary is young. He is only seventy-five years old and . . ."

Kathryn choked on her sip of coffee and as she coughed and fought for breath, Chakotay scurried to obtain a damp cloth and a drink of water. Once she had gotten her breath back she looked up at the Prefect with an incredulous look on her face.

"Zary is seventy-five! He only looks to be about twenty-five!"

The Prefect smiled. "Yes we are a long lived race. I myself am only one hundred and eighty-three."

Kathryn was extremely grateful she wasn't having another sip of coffee, knowing for sure she would have choked on it also. "But you look to be only about Chakotay's or my age, Prefect, and we are only in our forties."

Chakotay laughed. "It seems our friends are not only talented and fast at repairing ships, they also hide their age well."

Prefect Korado smiled. "We normally live into the two hundred plus range, but back to our request, Captain. May Zary join Voyager's crew? I assure you he is a good worker and he will return home someday and share his knowledge with us. In the meantime, his departure opens up a position for another worker to express his talent."

"We are short of crew members, Kathryn," said Chakotay. "He would fit in extremely well and everyone likes him. He and Harry seemed to especially get along and worked well together."

Kathryn smiled. "After all you have done for us we would be honored to have Zary join our crew. Now I have a suggestion. My plans are for us to leave tomorrow morning, so may we show you our appreciation by treating your workers to an outdoor barbecue or picnic this evening?"

"Actually I was thinking of having you join us in a farewell party for Zary."

"Why not combine them," said Chakotay.

Both Prefect Korado and Zary smiled and nodded their heads. It was agreed all workers would return this evening at 1900 hours.

* * * * *

Later, Kathryn and Chakotay were in the Ready Room going over last minute preparations for the evening's festivities, while the crew was busy moving into their quarters. Chakotay had sent out word that quarters would be changed due to the number of missing personnel, and after Tuvok and his Security Crew had cleaned out the deceased effects, assignments were made. Some crewmen remained in the same room, while many requested a change to be near a friend or just to be near someone.

As Kathryn studied a Padd she suddenly looked up at Chakotay. "Have you seen or talked to Seven? When we talked to Tuvok's group she seemed to remain in the background and B'Elanna said she had 'changed.' I haven't seemed to find the time to talk to her yet . . . she just doesn't seem to be in my path like she used to."

"I talked to B'Elanna about her yesterday afternoon mainly because when I chanced upon Seven yesterday morning she was very polite, a lot of 'Commander' and no Borg attitude. In fact she seemed almost meek."

"What did B'Elanna say?"

"Well it seems when they were landing she disagreed with Lt. Scorich on his landing procedures, told him he was going about it all wrong and didn't know what he was doing. She actually yanked him away from the controls, but in landing lost control of her Pod and crashed. Lt. Scorich was killed but before he died he looked at Seven and said, 'Your Royal Highness Borg wasn't so right after all were you? Why don't you try being human for a change?"

"Oh my," said Kathryn.

"What made it even worse she was holding him in her arms when he died and apparently her mistake in landing or his death or a combination of both put her in a deep depression for a couple of weeks. They had the Doctor talk to her several times and although he helped her she remained quiet, almost timid and became very polite. Full of Yes Sir, No sir, Please and Thank you. One of the most surprising things though," and Chakotay hesitated as he looked at Kathryn. "She wants to be called Annika Hansen now and doesn't want to wear her 'catsuit' as you call it."

Kathryn leaned back in her chair on that information, surprised and yet relieved. "Well that helps on what I was thinking about. We have to have some kind of uniform for Zary and as both he and Sev . . . Annika are not Starfleet, what do you recommend we do?"

"I thought about that earlier, too, Kathryn. What about a plain black uniform, cut somewhat like ours, but no colors or pips, just a Comm Badge."

Kathryn smiled, reached out to Chakotay's hand and squeezed. "I like it, see to it. Also while you're at it, try to determine exactly where we should assign Zary."

"I have a feeling he will be able to do anything, but I'll talk to him this evening."

* * * * *

Near 1900 hours the ships bearing the workers as well as Prefect Korado arrived and all walked out of their vessels bearing large amounts of fresh food.

"My goodness, Prefect," said Kathryn, "With all the food you have brought and what we have replicated, we have enough to feed an army."

"Perhaps you haven't seen the appetite of my workers," kidded the Prefect with a large smile.

During the course of the evening the crews intermingled quite readily and acted like they had known one another for years. Both Prefect Korado and Kathryn gave talks to the group, each expressing thanks to everyone for the cooperative effort. Some of the workers sang a few of their native songs, enthralling the Voyager crew with their beautiful voices, while others played instruments. The Voyager crew seemed mesmerized by their talent. As to Voyager's contribution to the entertainment, Harry played his Clarinet, a few other Voyager crewmembers sang solo and some in groups, while others performed comedy routines. The workers seemed to enjoy that as they laughed at everything that was said and done

In the midst of all this reverie Prefect Korado left, telling Kathryn and Chakotay he would see them off in the morning. As his ship flew away, and seeing no one was paying any attention to them, Kathryn and Chakotay slipped away from the party and headed for their 'new' quarters, where for the first time since finding Lt. Ayala's Pod they made love: mad, passionate, long yearned for and demanding love. Pent up emotion and feelings surged and took over every thought and action and as they reached the height of their passion and rode the wave, both shuddered in climaxing ecstasy and called out each other's name.

Down in the Mess Hall, Neelix jerked upright as he heard the yells reverberating throughout the empty ship. Suddenly realizing what they were, he broke into a large smile and muttered "That must have been a good one," and resumed arranging his kitchen.

The next morning the Alpha Shift crew started reporting to their stations and a feeling of excitement filled the air. This was it. They were actually going to lift off and once again head for Planet Earth.

On the Bridge there was a hum of activity. Suddenly Tom turned. "Captain, may I request that when the Prefect and all the workers arrive that you request them to land. The crew wants to present something to them."

"I'm sorry Captain," said Chakotay as Kathryn turned to look at him. "The crew approached me about this yesterday afternoon and I had so much on my mind I neglected to tell you."

Kathryn smirked at that remark as she thought of last night, and was glad she had her back to Tom. He would have made something out her expression for sure. Turning back to Tom she said, "All right. If the Commander has cleared it I presume it is appropriate."

"It's . . ."

"No," interrupted Kathryn quickly. "I don't want to know. I want to be as surprised as the Prefect and the workers.

At 0700 hours the small armada of the workers ships appeared to wish Voyager a pleasant journey. Prefect Korado hailed Voyager, saying he had Zary with him, but Kathryn requested they land, as the crew seemed to have something planned.

The eleven ships landed and as the Prefect and workers stepped out, the crew along with the Captain and Commander moved out of Voyager. After all had gathered together Tom stepped forward.

"Prefect, the crew of Voyager has a little gift we would like to give all of you as thanks for what you have done for us. I'm sorry we didn't quite get them finished to present last night at the party, so we had to wait until now."

Looking back he nodded his head and Harry, Lt Ayala and Ensign Nakamatsu stepped from within the ranks of Voyagers crew, all carrying small, wrapped gifts. Tom stepped towards the Prefect and said, "This one is for you," while the other three passed out their gifts to the workers.

When they were opened the gift turned out to be a small plaque, with the engraved image of Voyager, the names Captain Kathryn Janeway and Commander Chakotay and the Stardate. At the bottom was engraved: 'In appreciation for your assistance and friendship in our time of need. We will always be grateful and will remember you always. It was signed The Officers and Crew of the Federation Starship Voyager.'

Prefect Korado looked up and smiled. "The meaning and simplicity of this gift will be treasured by us all. Thank you, every one of you," and the workers nodded their heads, smiled and chorused a thank you.

"Now Captain, may I suggest you allow me and a few workers to be with you on Voyager during your ascent to help monitor all the systems. One final check to make sure everything is all right."

Kathryn readily agreed and the crew of Voyager waved goodbye and turned to board the ship, followed by the Prefect, Zary and Kathryn and Chakotay. Kathryn slipped up beside Tom and whispered, "Beautifully done, but tell me . . . just how was that accomplished?"

Tom grinned. "Well we all contributed Replicator Rations and let's just say the crew is going to have to like Neelix's cooking for the next month." Kathryn chuckled as she moved away to rejoin the Prefect.

While Kathryn escorted the Prefect to the Bridge, Chakotay took Zary and showed him his quarters, presented him with his uniform and Comm Badge and told him once he was ready to report to the Captain on the Bridge. It seemed Chakotay had barely walked onto the Bridge when Zary strode in and presented himself to Captain Janeway. 'Darn these people are fast in everything they do' muttered Chakotay to himself.

"Good morning Zary," said Kathryn. "Welcome to Voyager. You are going to be a most welcome addition to our crew."

Zary immediately came to attention and saluted.

"No Zary you do not need to salute me," said Kathryn with a smile. "We did away with that many years ago. Just call me Captain, wear your Comm Badge at all times and answer your hails promptly."

"Yes Captain," he immediately responded.

Prefect looked at Zary and smiled his approval. "I have no doubt you will make us proud Zary. Likely I will not be alive when you return, but know that I will think of you every day."

"Thank you Prefect. I will send messages every chance I get." The two men then stepped towards each other and grasped right forearms, which surprised Chakotay, as that was his Tribe's way.

"Zary, with your knowledge of this area of space, Chakotay has assigned you temporarily to Cartography and you will work with Annika Hansen. Do you know where that department is?" asked Kathryn.

He grinned. "Yes Captain, I do."

"Very well, report there, but first stop by Sick Bay. As a new member of our crew the EMH will need to get a full medical work-up on you for our database." Zary nodded his head at Prefect Korado, told him he would miss him and to be well, and turned to leave the Bridge.

Harry stood beaming at his station and as Zary looked up at him on the way out, Harry nodded his head and said, "Welcome, Zary."

After looking around and seeing one worker at each station, Kathryn assumed they were at stations throughout the ship and sat down. Chakotay indicated for Prefect Korado to sit in his chair and after he nodded and sat, Kathryn asked, "Commander is everything ready?"

"All systems are online Captain," he responded.

"Tuvok, Harry, any problems?" Both responded there were none, so Kathryn looked forward, barely able to contain a smile and said, "Tom take us up."

"Yes ma'am. Engines online, Thrusters online," and he tapped at his panel and slowly Voyager left the surface. "Landing Struts retracted and locked in place," he said and Harry and Tuvok also reported everything normal on their consoles. Outside, the workers ships darted about the outside surface of Voyager, their small ships like mother hens looking after their chicks, only this time it was one large chick. They reported to Prefect Korado sensors did not show any problems. Prefect then bid Kathryn and Chakotay farewell and beamed to his small vessel and ordered all workers to return to their respective ships. The workers bid their farewell and shimmered out of sight.

Shortly Voyager was in orbit around the planet and all systems throughout the ship were reported operating at peak efficiency. Kathryn was just about to order the ship to depart orbit when suddenly she turned to Harry.

"Harry, hail Prefect Korado."

"Yes ma'am," said Harry as he tapped at his Console. "He has answered our hail Captain."

"On screen," and shortly the face of the Prefect appeared.

"Is there a problem, Captain?" he asked.

Smiling sheepishly, she shook her head and said, "I am embarrassed about this Prefect, but it just suddenly occurred to me we have never asked what the name of your planet is."

The Prefect smiled. "It is called Karma, Captain."

"Oh my," said Kathryn with a hand flitting briefly to her cheek.

"Captain?" said the Prefect with a slight frown. "Is there something wrong?"

"No Prefect, it's just the name of your planet . . . in our culture that name has to do with the totality of one's acts in each state of one's existence, or to state it loosely, it refers to our fate. That we landed on your planet and your planet is called Karma . . . well it's very fitting, it's like we were directed here through some unknown manner or means. Thank you, Prefect. We on Voyager will never forget you, your people or your planet." He smiled and nodded and both screens went black.

"All right Tom, I do believe Voyager is like a frisky colt and wants to run, so set our course to the Alpha Quadrant at Warp 6.

"Aye Captain, course laid in and set at Warp 6."

"Engage," said Kathryn and Voyager fairly leapt forward.

Everything progressed efficiently for Voyager all day. Although there was some tension at first after what Voyager had been through, everyone soon relaxed. However, there were three interesting highlights during the quiet day. The first occurred early on when Janeway received a hail from Annika.

"Captain, a gentleman by the name of Zary has reported he is assigned to work here with me."

"That is correct, Annika. Is there a problem?"

"No ma'am. It was just that I wasn't aware he was now a member of our crew. He will be a welcome addition."

"He has lived in this section of space all his life and should be able to help you make a minutely detailed map of the area."

"That is good to hear Captain. I am sure we will develop an excellent map for your use. Thank you." Kathryn looked over at Chakotay and twitched her eyebrow.

The second occurred at mid-morning when the Dr. hailed. "Captain, a gentleman by the name of Zary left here awhile back and informed me this area of space does not have any hostile aliens for oh . . . about ten thousand light years. I think this is an opportune time to do some more work on your leg, don't you?"

Kathryn sighed and looked immediately at Chakotay.

"Oh stop your smirking Chakotay. I swear the two of you are in cahoots in this." She stood and as she started off the Bridge said, "Commander the Bridge is yours for oh . . . about two hours."

Tom smiled as he heard this exchange and swung his chair towards Janeway. "Captain?"

Kathryn turned and looked back at him. "Yes, Tom."

"I just wanted to say 'Welcome Back' to the old Captain. I . . . we've all missed her."

Kathryn's face softened, and her voice was barely a whisper as she answered, "Thank you Tom, I've missed her, too."

She glanced briefly at Chakotay, a wisp of a smile forming about her lips, and then turned and limped off the Bridge. Tom's eyes followed her until the doors swished shut and glancing quickly at Chakotay saw he had done the same. The two men's eyes locked for a moment, they smiled at each other and Tom turned back to the Helm, his mouth forming a small smirk.

The third occurred early in the afternoon. "Engineering to Captain Janeway."

"Go ahead B'Elanna."

"Captain, I have been looking over this list of 'ideas' that Prefect Korado gave you and, well to put it bluntly, they are really more than just 'ideas'. There is one here that really piques my interest as far as propulsion."

Kathryn smiled. "Work on any that you care to B'Elanna. There are several that 'pique' my interest, I must say."

"If this one works Captain . . . if I am reading it correctly and it does what I think it can do -- if I develop it -- we'll be home next year!"

"And knowing you and your expertise," said Kathryn chuckling "I look forward to seeing that blue Orb.

* * * * *

That night Kathryn and Chakotay quietly lay in bed recovering from making love, albeit quieter than the night before, but just as passionate. Kathryn turned on her side and snuggled her head onto his shoulder. Chakotay blew at some of her hair that had fallen across his lips, blew again and finally took his hand and brushed it away.

"Kathryn?"

"Uhm?"

"Do you remember when a Maradi ship attacked Voyager?"

"Yes and almost destroyed her, but she refused to die."

"Do you remember the Captain being pinned on the Bridge by a large beam and the situation seemed hopeless?"

"Yes, and I remember a certain brave First Officer who lay down beside that Captain, willing to sacrifice his life so that he could always be with her. I also remember it was in those moments when that Captain realized how very much she loved her First Officer."

Chakotay smiled and asked, "Do you remember 'Our Planet' and the month spent there?"

"Yes, and I vividly remember the love and compassion you showed every single minute. I remember the sorrow, trauma and happiness that followed, bringing us to this moment."

Kathryn then raised up on one elbow and kissed Chakotay, a sweet, poignant and loving kiss and laying back down snuggled up tight to him, burrowed her head deep into his neck and placing her arm across his chest squeezed tight, as if holding onto a lifeboat, and whispered, "I will always remember."


Finis
1999

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