10_
Stardate 57943.4
December 10, 2380
"Something Tuvok can contribute …?!"
Kathryn was in her ready room and had just ordered a cup of black coffee from the replicator when Harry came in. He had asked for something Tuvok can contribute to the Christmas celebration.
"I just thought you know him longest and you can give me an advice," the young Ensign said.
The coffee cup appeared in the replicator. Kathryn took a sip and was thinking.
"Tuvok had never liked social events. Vulcans – and especially Tuvok – like to be on their own."
"Had he never taken part in a crew party?" Harry asked curiously.
"I remember him saying that parties are 'an unnecessary waste of time'," she said imitating Tuvok.
Harry laughed.
"Nearly 90 years ago, when he had served aboard the Excelsior, Captain Sulu had tried to make Tuvok taking part in a Christmas party. He wasn't successful either."
Kathryn took another sip of coffee.
"If you ask me, Harry, it would be easier to make a Borg smile than making Tuvok participate in a party."
"But you have taught Seven how to smile and she is – well – was a Borg."
One point for Harry. Seven was a Borg for a long time and she had almost forgotten how to smile. But when she had joined the crew of the Voyager seven years ago she got back her humanity. She was a good symbol that people can change.
Suddenly Kathryn got an idea.
"Maybe we can persuade Tuvok to make some of his sweets."
Five years ago, Tuvok was attacked by an alien weapon that switched of his emotional control. Then he wanted to have fun together with Neelix and he made a few very good desserts, which was quite astonishing for a Vulcan. Finally the Doctor found out how to heal him, but all of them had liked the new Tuvok.
"That won't be easy," Harry said. "I don't think that he wants to be reminded of this event."
"Talk to Neelix about that. I'm sure he will find a way," Kathryn said smiling.
Harry smiled back at her. Surely there was nobody better on this ship who could make Tuvok do things he had never liked, but the always happy Talaxian.
"I will do this. Thank you, Captain," Harry said. "May I ask the question, what are you going to contribute to the Christmas party?"
"Well, as I am the captain, I don't have to contribute. Captain's privilege, you know," Kathryn said with a wide smile on her face. "But as this is our tenth Christmas, exceptionally I am going to contribute my part. But I'm not revealing it now, because it shall be a surprise."
Harry was very curious about what was her surprise for the crew, she knew it. Indeed, it will be a great surprise for some particular members of the crew.
"In two weeks you will know. Pleasant anticipation is the most wonderful joy, Harry," she said smiling at the young Ensign.
"Well, than – thank you again, Captain."
"You're welcome! And good luck!"