A/N: This is a response to a prompt in Julia Irian's JC Catalogue. I have no idea how many chapters there will be, so keep a lookout for updates. Try to guess which prompt it is.
CHAPTER 1
The Andraaxi were a seemingly simple people. Their plain clothing and emphasis on agriculture belied the fact that were indeed a technologically advanced species. However, they preferred to maintain a simple lifestyle, using tried and true methods to manufacture supplies among other things. They stayed as true to their heritage as possible, though recognized the need to make advancement. Particularly in the medical field. The facilities were nothing short of amazing, and the Doctor relished the idea of being able work within them for the next two weeks.
While he toured the facilities, Captain Janeway and Chakotay met with Hateel Amex, the Andraaxi leader.
"It is an honor to meet you," the Hateel said, bowing his head to his visitors. "I am Hateel Amex, and this is my wife, Hateela Selene," he gestured to a young woman next him with striking violet eyes. She nodded to them, "I am pleased to make your acquaintance. We've heard many stories about you."
"Good ones, I hope," the Captain answered.
The Hateela smiled and looked to her husband. "Mostly. Fortunately our people are adept at telling fact from fiction."
"I'm glad," the Captain said.
The Hateel gestured for them follow. "Yes, in fact, we have a proposition to make." Chakotay raised an eyebrow and looked at Kathryn.
"One of our airfields for our tradeships resides in a valley approximately three of your miles from here. Our scans have indicated that there is more than enough room for your Voyager to land."
Kathryn stopped, "What exactly are you proposing?"
The Hateela spoke, "We would very much like to get to know you and your crew over the next two weeks. To do that, we ask that they all come to the surface."
"I don't know," Kathryn said looking at Chakotay, "we wouldn't want to put you out."
"You would not," the Hateel answered. "Those on your crew who wish to may take a room here. The others may continue using the arrangements they have on your ship. You do not have to do this, but it will help us come to a final decision as to what to trade with your crew."
"The crew could use some R and R, Kathryn," Chakotay commented. She smiled, "I agree, Chakotay. Hateel, if you'll send the coordinates to Voyager, my helmsman may land her immediately."
The Hateel smiled, "I will go do so. My wife will continue with you."
As he left, the three began walking back down the hall. "If you don't mind," Chakotay said, "where are we going?"
"It is our understanding that in your culture, it is not required that leaders be bonded to each other, and that you are not bonded to each other, so I must take you to two separate rooms."
"Ah, understood. Is it required to bond in your culture?"
"If you are to lead, yes. One cannot assume the title of Hateel or Hateela until after they have wed their betrothed. Those who do not, or choose not to maintain the title of Hateeli or Hateelia. It is a matter of familial succession after that, usually handed down to the next eldest heir."
"Sounds a lot like how royalty works on Earth," Kathryn said.
"I believe in your language, the titles of Hateel and Hateela would translate to King and Queen."
She stopped, "This is your room, Hateelia of Voyager, and yours across the hall, Hateeli of Voyager."
"Thank you, very much. We look forward to the rest of our stay."
"You are welcome," the Hateela began. She hesitated a moment before continuing, "My husband would likely say it is imprudent to say this, but I hope you will become Hateel and Hateela of Voyager. I can see within your eyes how much you truly care for each other."
Chakotay gave a shy grin, and Kathryn blushed. "Yes, wouldn't that be nice?" Chakotay unwittingly said outloud. Kathryn bit her lip, but said nothing.
The Hateela smiled, "I leave you to your evening."
