The next morning, Chakotay violated the protocol of not seeing the bride on her wedding day when Galina and Deanna called him in a panic because they couldn't get anyone to answer the door at the Admiral's apartment, where they were supposed to meet up with Kate to help her get ready for the ceremony. He met up with a very patient Ensign Amaez, and a very impatient Commander Deanna Troi-Riker, who had returned to Earth for this ceremony, outside of the Admiral's door.
"I'm so sorry to have bothered you, Captain, but I assumed you would be able to access the Admiral's apartment. I mean not insinuating that…" Chakotay cut Ensign Amaez off with a wave of his hand.
"It's alright, Galina. I understand what you mean and I take no offense. You'll see why later. But yes, I do have access to her apartment. Kate stayed over with her last night, so they may still be getting their beauty sleep," he added with a smile towards the ensign.
"Yes, sir," she stated while watching him access the residence.
"And how is the lovely Mrs. Troi-Riker this morning?" Chakotay quizzed while working the code on Kathryn's apartment.
Deanna smiled in return before replying, "Oh, I'm just lovely, Chakotay. It's going to be a marvelous day. Will is somewhat relieved that you'll be escorting Kate down the aisle, as he was getting nervous at the thought."
Chakotay smiled and turned to face her briefly. "Thank you, to the both of you actually. You've meant a great deal to Kate, and I know you've helped her immensely. Just having the both of you here, and you being in her wedding means the world to her."
Chakotay entered the apartment first followed by the other two. He ventured down the hallway peeking in Kathryn's master suite but soon realized she wasn't there. Galina and Deanna stayed put in the living room area, as they didn't want to intrude. When Chakotay poked his head inside the guest room, his heart practically stopped beating, as he witnessed a sight that caused his heart to turn flips. The love of his life, his soon-to-be wife, holding their beautiful daughter in her arms as both of them lay fast asleep like angels. Ever so gently, he tiptoed over to the side of the bed where Kathryn lay, although Kate was practically splayed across the entire mass of the bed, nearly squashing Kathryn beneath her. He knelt down and placed a feather-like kiss on Kathryn's cheek, which caused her to stir slightly because Kate's dead weight suppressed her some.
Kathryn's eyes fluttered open and when she saw Chakotay towering over them, she beamed.
"Ensign Amaez called in a panic when she and Deanna couldn't get the two of you to answer the door. Didn't really suspect the two of you to sleep in this late on such a big day."
Kathryn's eyes bolted even wider open and she was about to shoot straight up from the bed when she realized Kate was still asleep on top of her.
"My God, Chakotay! We have to wake her up or she's going to be late for her own wedding," she said in a fluster, which Chakotay couldn't help but chuckle at.
Kathryn poked Kate's side and she made a noise and something that remotely sounded like "Go away!" Kathryn rolled her eyes at Chakotay, who in turned tried to wake her to no avail.
"Stubborn just like her mother," he added and received a slight slap from Kathryn in return.
"Captain Kathryn Janeway!" the Admiral barked in such a fierce tone that not only did Kate bolt straight out of the bed, but Chakotay even stood to attention. Once Kathryn had gotten her daughter awake and out of the bed, she stood and smoothed her own hair turning to Chakotay and said "Well, that's more like it. Now I need my coffee, and you, young lady, better hit the shower because Ensign Amaez and Commander Troi-Riker are here in a panic or so I've heard."
"Holy…" and Kate stopped and flew out into the living area to grab Galina and Deanna and drag them back into the guest room. "I'm so sorry. I didn't realize I had overslept."
As Kathryn sauntered out into the kitchen with Chakotay hot on her heels, she turned to him and smirked, "Aren't you supposed to be getting ready, as well?"
He couldn't help but smile. "Naturally, yes, but my dress uniform is here anyways."
"Ugh!" Kathryn retorted. "While I like the dress uniforms, I don't at the same time."
Chakotay smirked, "Prefer me to wear something different, Admiral?"
"I would prefer you to wear nothing," Kathryn stated before she had realized what she said and stopped herself. "Well, I mean, I,"
"Cat got your tongue, sweetheart?" Chakotay chided and placed a tender kiss on her lips. "Today, you will become Mrs. Chakotay and I can't wait."
"Well, I think Mr. Janeway sounds even better," she joked and returned his kiss. "But nonetheless, I'll have the best looking man for my husband in the entire universe and I couldn't be happier."
Eventually Kathryn returned to her master suite and began getting ready for the occasion. Chakotay poked his head in on Kate and asked if it was required that he wear his dress uniform. She laughed and said of course not because while she wasn't wearing her official dress uniform, her wedding attire had been designed to be very similar to her Starfleet colors. Since the wedding was being held on the Starfleet grounds, it was either required to wear their dress uniforms unless the bride had obtained approval to wear something else, which Kate had done previously. Michael would be wearing his dress uniform, but Chakotay was free to wear that or a tuxedo. Kate knew that Kathryn wasn't wearing her dress uniform, but she wasn't about to tell her father that. She wanted him to be surprised.
Kate quickly slipped across the hall to her mother's suite and couldn't help but gasp.
"Mom," Kate said almost breathlessly. "You look absolutely stunning."
Kathryn was dressed in a simple yet elegant black dress that had a small red sash around the waist line. She was able to get by wearing the dress because it was the Starfleet command colors of red and black. The neckline was lower than what Kathryn typically wore, but it wasn't to the extreme. Kate smiled and the look in her eyes made Kathryn realize that Kate knew her father would go crazy over Kathryn's outfit.
"It's a good thing you're getting married today because any man may try to sweep you off your feet in that dress," she couldn't help but chide with her mother.
Kathryn smiled and stepped closer to her daughter asking her to help her with her necklace. "They might try, but I don't think Chakotay would allow that to happen nor would I. I'm beyond happy, Kate. I can't imagine life being any more perfect. I can't wait to marry my best friend, my soul mate, but I also can't wait to see my beautiful daughter walk down the aisle before me and marry her best friend and soul mate."
After spending a few more moments together, Kate went back across to her room to finish getting ready. As Galina worked with Kate on helping her finish getting ready, Kate ultimately knew that there would be no way to prevent Chakotay from seeing his bride prior to their wedding, and more than likely, Kate wouldn't get to see his reaction when her mother stepped out from her suite. But she knew that Deanna would fill her in on all the details, as she had just left the room to go summon their ride for the ceremony.
Galina and Deanna small chatted with Chakotay as they kept an ever watchful eye out the window for their ride and for the appearance of Kathryn and Kate. When they heard Chakotay's sharp intake of breath, they turned to see Admiral Janeway appear from her room. Even Galina and Deanna were both stunned by the Admiral's transformation. Her dress was sleek. She had swept her hair into an up-do and had some tendrils frame her delicate face. Galina watched as Chakotay stepped closer to her and handed her a bouquet of red roses.
He opened his mouth to say something but words wouldn't come. He eyed her up and down and Kathryn couldn't help but smirk.
"Like what you see, Captain?" she quizzed.
He nodded his head. "Kathryn, there are no words to describe just how breathtakingly beautiful you look right now."
For the first time in years, she blushed. The way he was looking at her, made her feel like something she had never quite felt before. She was about to say something else when she noticed Chakotay's eyes shift behind her and the look on his face, while pleasant, almost looked as if he had seen an apparition.
Kathryn turned around slowly and stared in complete awe at her daughter, who in that moment, looked exactly like Kathryn did when she was her age. It took her own breath away.
Kate's gown had been exclusively made for her. The top portion, which was a halter style that was form-fitting and gathered around her neck allowing a small portion of her upper back to be exposed, was red in color. The lower portion of the dress was more flowing and was black in color. But around the waist line, the gown was designed with her rank, which had been adjusted due to her promotion. The markings of her rank were mock diamond rhinestones that sparkled incessantly. It was an absolutely gorgeous dress, and one that she knew would cause heads to turn.
Kathryn stepped directly into her daughter's private space and lightly caressed her face. "Sweetheart, you looking absolutely stunning."
Kate smiled down at her. "Seeing a replica, huh, Mom?" she questioned.
Kathryn shook her head and laughed. "I was never quite this beautiful, honey, but I do see the resemblance between us very strongly today. But that doesn't matter because you are so, so beautiful and always so true to yourself."
Galina hated to interrupt but their transportation had arrived and the time was drawing near. Kathryn, Deanna and Galina helped Kate out of the apartment building and into the awaiting transportation where they were driven to the park for the ceremony.
As the ceremony slowly began and after Kathryn had been escorted down the aisle, by Tom Paris no less, Chakotay had a quick moment alone with his daughter.
"Kate, I'm beyond proud of you. You look exactly like your mother, don't let her say otherwise. But you are always individually you. You are beautiful inside and out and never change that. And you'll always be my little girl. I love you, honey," he added with a quick kiss to her cheek.
She returned his kiss with one of her own. "Thanks, Edoda. I love you, too."
Kate and Michael's wedding ceremony went off without a hitch. It was truly a magical service. Chakotay and Kathryn held each other's hands throughout most of the ceremony, as he could tell she was slightly nervous. Once Kate and Michael had finished their vows, exchanged their ceremonial rings and officially became husband and wife, they slowly made their way back down the aisle. The wedding party followed suit, as in typical fashion, followed soon thereafter by Kathryn and Chakotay. But, in a strange twist, the Admiral officiating the wedding made an announcement that sent silent ripples throughout the crowd.
"Ladies and gentlemen, before we leave today, we have a surprise for those of you in attendance. Not only did we just witness a glorious wedding of Captain Kate Janeway and Doctor Michael Killarney, but we have a surprise for the rest of you in that we have another wedding ceremony that is going to follow. Please remain in your seats for a few brief moments."
Tom and B'Elanna exchanged wild looks wondering what on earth was about to transpire. The wedding music started again and Chakotay appeared at the altar with Michael as his best man. Kate shortly thereafter strolled down the aisle, again. Then to the shock of everyone in the audience, Admiral Kathryn Janeway slowly made her way down the aisle, and in a surprise to most everyone in the audience, she had tears slowly trickling down her face.
Gasps were heard all around from various Voyager crewmembers as they suddenly realized their former Captain was finally tying the knot with their most recent Captain. Tom gave a thumbs up to Harry, as their bets from all years past were finally coming to fruition. B'Elanna took Tom's hand and they all held their breaths at this special moment that they were all getting ready to witness – a moment they had waited for eternity to happen or so it seemed.
Once Kathryn made her way to the makeshift altar, Chakotay reached out and took her by the hand and reached up to wipe the stray tears away from her face. Kate peeped over at Michael and smiled contently at the show of humility and love that her two parents shared for each other. The ceremony wasn't as lengthy as Kate and Michael's, but in some ways, it was much more heart-felt. After their ceremony was completed, everyone was invited to the wedding reception, which Tom and Harry called the after-party.
A portion of the park, just steps away from where the ceremony had taken place, had been transformed into a tropical luau of sorts with food overflowing in every direction possible. Lights were hung in the trees giving it a tropical feel, and the music was right up Tom's alley as he grabbed B'Elanna's hand and hit the dance floor to the laughter of most everyone in attendance. Kate and Michael soon followed suit with their varying friends, family and colleagues. Kathryn and Chakotay stood off to the side watching many of, what had become their children, share in a joyous fit of laughter and dancing on the floor.
"Well, Mrs. Chakotay," he stated, "don't you want to join the festivities on the floor?"
Kathryn gave him the look that stated she couldn't believe he asked that question, but when she glanced back and saw that her own sister and mother were out on the dance floor doing some group dance, her mouth dropped open and Chakotay couldn't help but chuckle.
"I think that answers the question, Kathryn. Are you gonna let your mother and sister outshine you?"
When she turned to glance at him, he saw that wicked twinkle in her eye. He had dared her and he knew she couldn't resist that.
"Hell, no, Chakotay! This is partially our night, so let's get out there and show them just exactly how it is done."
In a shocking turn, she grabbed his hand and drug him, who usually stayed far away from a dance floor, to the center shoving Tom and Harry out of her way. For the next hour or so, Kathryn and, even Chakotay, showed everyone who was boss as they outshined practically everyone. With Kathryn by his side, Chakotay wasn't afraid to let his guard down and show off some moves to the catcalls of many other female crewmembers, which caused Kathryn to grin and shoot glares in the general direction of anyone who might try to steal her man.
After several hours of celebration, the real bride and groom bid their farewell to their guests as they were ready to embark on their honeymoon. Kathryn and Chakotay bid their daughter and her husband a fond farewell, which Chakotay practically had to pull Kathryn from Kate, so she and Michael could make their trek onward. Tom and B'Elanna couldn't help but watch from afar the pride and joy that was etched across both their former commanding officers faces. They slowly strode over towards where the proud parents stood.
"So, what about you two?" Tom quizzed.
Kathryn turned and raised her right eyebrow as if questioning Tom. "What about us, Tom?" she finally asked.
"The honeymoon. Aren't you two going to celebrate your honeymoon somewhere?"
Kathryn smiled and shook her head. "You know, Mr. Paris, I know you and Mr. Kim always had a bet about me and Chakotay, and I'm sure you likely cashed in on that while I walked down the aisle, although you may have cashed it in sooner. But since our wedding today was so sudden and not planned, we haven't even given thought to a honeymoon."
B'Elanna couldn't help but notice the smirk on Chakotay's face, and in that instance, she realized that while Kathryn hadn't given it much thought, she had all ideas that Chakotay already had something planned. As if reading B'Elanna's mind, Tom chimed back in again.
"That true, Chakotay? You're going to leave your bride hanging with no honeymoon?"
Chakotay turned his head over his right shoulder and looked as a sleek flyer appeared out of nowhere, which caused Tom and B'Elanna to both gasp.
"I would never disappoint my wife, the Admiral, Mr. Paris. Sweetheart, our ride awaits," Chakotay stated while nodding towards the flying machine.
"But, Chakotay," Kathryn stammered in complete shock. "I, uh, I haven't packed a thing and I, well," she couldn't form a sentence because he had totally captured her off-guard. She continued to try to babble and pester, but shocking to everyone, Chakotay swept her off her feet and held her proudly in his arms.
"You, my dear, never allow anyone to surprise you, so it's my turn to do just that. Let's go," he stated while walking with her, in his arms, towards the flyer, whose doors opened automatically once he neared. He walked in and set her down in the co-pilot's seat while he sat in the pilot's seat and powered the beauty of a machine up.
As they slowly made their way up into the lower levels of the atmosphere, Kathryn finally allowed herself to get out of her chair and explore the flyer, where she found luggage that was stored, as well as food and champagne and all sorts of goodies awaiting them.
"Chakotay," she practically gasped before returning to the seat beside of him. "How did you manage to do all this? And where on earth did you get access to this new flyer? I've never seen this one before, ever."
He smirked. "It's fresh off the manufacturing floor. It's been tested a few times, but I put in a special request, and was permitted access to take it. And as to how I pulled it all off, well I would be lying if I didn't say I had some help, but for the most part, I did it all by myself. You deserve only the best, Kathryn, my love, and I hope our destination is a surprise to you, as well."
For the next couple of hours Kathryn and Chakotay shared small-chat about the day in general and discussed the future of Kate becoming the new Captain onboard the new Voyager. All the while, Kathryn secretly wondered just where Chakotay was taking her.
"You know," Chakotay stated, "we're actually doing Kate a favor."
"How so?" Kathryn asked while taking a bite of a piece of chocolate from the tray she had found within the small refrigerator contraption on the impressive flyer.
"This flyer is likely going to be placed on the new Voyager. So, naturally, we are giving it our approval, right?"
Kathryn attempted to speak, but the chocolate was so mesmerizing, her eyes practically rolled in to the back of her head, which caused Chakotay to snicker in return.
"Well," she replied in between another bite of the heavenly delight, of which she also placed in Chakotay's mouth so he could sample the delicacy, "this flyer could be practically lived in, honey."
Chakotay laughed and absorbed the chocolate. "This stuff is delicious."
Kathryn laughed, "If I didn't know better, I would have said it tastes just like something my mother used to make," and she paused as she noticed Chakotay's reaction. "Chakotay!" she teasingly shouted. "My Mother? You instigated my own mother in this conspiracy?"
He couldn't help but laugh and leaned over and placed a kiss on her lips. "Your mother, your sister, our daughter and maybe one or two other sources. But even they don't know where we're going, well, Katie does."
Kathryn raised her eyebrows and inched closer to him. "Katie? Since when did we start calling her that? I thought that was my pet name."
The sudden switch in the tone in her voice from serious to sultry practically sent reverberations throughout Chakotay's body.
"You're my one and only Katie, but you and I both know we have other nicknames that are much more preferable for you, right? Like my little Kitten Kat," he added while she practically purred at him in response. "Plus Michael calls her Katie all the time, even though he spells it K-A-T-Y, which I guess is the Irish way, and I guess I just got used to him calling her that, so I do too occasionally."
She smirked. "Fine, I'll let you off the hook because you have a point about my other nicknames. How much longer, Chakotay?"
He couldn't help but laugh. "Always like a child, at times, Kathryn. Patience was never one of your strong suits, but not much longer."
For a few more moments, they rode together in silence with Kathryn and Chakotay holding hands until he finally had to let go of her hand to pilot the flyer into its final descent. When they landed, Kathryn practically stood from her seat peering through the windows on the flyer. She was mesmerized. Chakotay, who had not physically seen this place either as he had only been told about it by Kate and Michael, was in awe.
"Chakotay," she half breathed and gasped his name at the same time. "It's beautiful, it's just like," and she paused and turned to him. "How is this even possible?"
He initially didn't respond right away to her question because he was in complete astonishment at how uncanny this place truly did resemble New Earth. When Kathryn stared at his face, she realized that even he was stunned. But, he eventually turned his attention to her and the sparkle in her beautiful blue eyes caused a large smile to creep out across his face.
"It's perfect, Kathryn, just like you are," he stated before placing a light kiss on her lips, which caused her to blush somewhat in response.
Slowly they made their way out of their flyer, carefully locking it as Kathryn could instantly tell that this time, they weren't the only ones inhabiting this land. An older couple approached them from a distance and called out their names, "Kathryn and Chakotay?"
For a moment, they both froze in place. It was so unusual to not be referred to by their titles. It was nice to just be thought of as the two of them being a couple.
"Yes, that's us," Chakotay replied as he shook hands with both of the individuals, while still holding onto Kathryn's other hand.
"Hello! Welcome to Nouvelle Terre! My name is Jacques, and this is my wife, Sophie. We are pleased to have the both of you staying with us here for a few days. We are the overseers of Nouvelle Terre. I spoke with Captain Janeway at great length before your arrival, and we believe we have arranged the perfect accommodations for the two of you. A very private retreat for you to enjoy. There are many other people here on Nouvelle Terre, but we try to respect each individual's privacy while they are enjoying a respite here. If you will, we will escort you, and your flyer, over to your lodging locale. You are free to roam anywhere you choose while here."
Kathryn's mouth was practically agape. "Thank you for your kindness and generosity. But a couple of questions. You spoke with Captain Janeway? When was that? And Nouvelle Terre, I have an idea of what that stands for but can you clarify?"
Sophie smiled faintly and replied. "Yes, madam. Jacques and I are descendants from the French provinces upon Earth, and while we loved it there, we wanted to create a place that was somewhat reminiscent of there, but also a lot more exotic and cozy. Nouvelle Terre is French for New Earth."
Chakotay couldn't help but turn his head to catch a smirk that appeared on Kathryn's face, while Jacques continued to answer the remainder of the Admiral's questions. "As far as Captain Janeway, I actually finished speaking with her probably a few hours ago. It is my understanding that she is your daughter, correct?" They both nodded in unison. "She wanted to ensure that you all were provided for and she gave me some additional details to be sure we fit in for you. So, if you will, please follow us in your flyer."
As Chakotay and Kathryn made their way back onboard their flyer, Kathryn turned to Chakotay. "Just what is Kate up to? She's supposed to be on her own honeymoon, yet she's…" and Kathryn immediately stopped speaking once her eyes settled on the breathtaking sight that had appeared before her through the view screen.
Snaking through the distance was one of the most immaculate rivers or bodies of water that Kathryn had ever seen. The water was almost crystal clear. Lush vegetation and trees of all kinds were surrounding the banks of the river. Dotted along the shoreline one could see periodic little bungalows hidden amongst the trees and vegetation. The bungalow that was reserved for Chakotay and Kathryn was somewhat larger than the others, and Kathryn couldn't help notice the outdoor hot tub along with a "boat", they both said in unison as if they were both reading each other's thoughts.
Kate had somehow gone to great lengths to ensure that their honeymoon destination was perfectly similar to their rendezvous on New Earth, where their magical past likely collided in full measure. Slowly, Chakotay took Kathryn's hand and led her back out of the flyer to meet up with Jacques and Sophie.
"This is your bungalow for the next week or ever how long you want it. Captain Janeway, reserved it for an unlimited stay on your behalf. She is very well liked in these parts."
Kathryn's eyebrows raised, "Really?" she asked curiously.
Jacques and Sophie shared a small laugh before Sophie replied, "Yes, very much so, Kathryn. Your daughter is quite famous amongst our natives. We would do anything to help her, and as a matter of fact, I can see that she resembles you quite substantially."
Kathryn smiled and nodded her head. "Thank you."
Jacques handed them a key. "The place is all yours. You won't necessarily need the key as your closest neighbors are quite a distance away. This is one of our more reclusive and exclusive bungalows. As I said before, Nouvelle Terre is yours to explore and enjoy for as long as you like. Should you need anything from us or any of our attendants, there are instructions inside for how to contact us. This is Louis. He will help unload your personal items, and he will be your immediate attendant during your stay. Anytime you need him, there is a call button that you can simply utilize and he will be at your beck and call."
Chakotay and Kathryn turned to watch as Louis had boarded the flyer quickly began to relocate many of their luggage and personal items into the bungalow. Chakotay extended his hand to Jacques.
"We can't thank you enough for your hospitality thus far, and I am sure Kathryn and I will enjoy our stay immensely as it is absolutely beautiful here. It reminds us so much of a place the two of us hold very dear to our hearts."
They all exchanged their final pleasantries before Jacques and Sophie left in their vehicle. Louis remained behind for a few moments and pointed out some varying things to both Chakotay and Kathryn, including places to visit, eat and such. While it seemed like such a remote destination, per Louis, just a few miles down the way was a relatively large city that could be accessible by their flyer, boat or any other means of transportation and it offered an array of items for them should they need anything. He eventually departed leaving the two of them finally alone to explore their surroundings and utterly themselves.
Meanwhile, light years away, Kate awoke in the arms of Michael, who nuzzled her neck. "What you thinking about, Katy?" he lulled in his utterly gorgeous Irish accent that Kate absolutely adored.
"Just wondering what Mom is thinking about Nouvelle Terre?"
Michael chuckled. "She apparently doesn't know you accessed hers and Chakotay's logs to get their notes on New Earth, does she?"
Kate rolled her eyes. "I didn't access them so much as I hacked in to them because they were PERSONAL logs, Michael."
"Yes, dear, but you are their daughter, so you should have access to that sort of information. I mean do you really think they would be mad at you accessing those logs?"
"You obviously forgot who my mother is."
He kissed the top of her forehead. "Ahh, Katy, I think your mother has changed and for the better. I haven't seen her so happy, well maybe with the exception of when she looks at you. But I think they'll be so carried away with Nouvelle Terre that they'll forgive you, if they even put two and two together and figure it out. Because they've both talked to you about New Earth, right?"
"Yes, of course, but not in great detail, and while I didn't read their entire personal logs, I immediately could tell that place held such a strong passionate desire that wasn't just a one-way street like my Dad thought it was. Mom was head over heels in love with him, but while she used the parameters line of Starfleet and him being her subordinate as the excuse for not allowing them to be too close, in her personal logs, she admitted she was terrified because she had never felt that way towards anyone before."
Michael sighed. "That's magical love, Katy. That type of love doesn't come around very much, if ever. They are both happy. You can see it in their eyes. I'm very happy, especially for your mother. It's high time she lets her hair down and lets the real Kathryn out."
Kate stared over at Michael. "You really mean that, don't you?"
He smiled and replied, "I've only seen the real Kathryn on rare occasions, but seeing how she interacted with Chakotay on Deep Space Nine, I knew that was the real Kathryn. She allows her mask to completely drop when she's around him, and that's where she needs to be. She's a good woman on so many levels, Katy. Yes, I know we've had our encounters with her, but overall, she, just like you, deserves to be happy. And both of you are – you both have wonderful spouses and you have each other."
Kate wrapped her arm tighter around Michael's chest, "We do have two amazing spouses, although I think mine is the best."
"But, of course, my lass," Michael added before kissing his bride.
Over the course of the next few days, Kate, Michael, Kathryn and Chakotay enjoyed their respective honeymoons in their own locations, while the crew of Voyager was enjoying their own vacations. All knew when they returned to active duty, things would be completely different – a new ship, a new crew and ultimately, a new Captain.
Eventually, Kate and Michael returned to San Francisco a little over a week after they had gotten married. They met up with Tom and B'Elanna for dinner at a local restaurant, where Tom jokingly asked if anyone had heard from Kathryn and Chakotay, to which no one had. They all knew Kate had a big task in front of her in choosing her First Officer. While she pondered choosing either Tom or B'Elanna, she ultimately knew that they would not likely want to remain in active duty for much longer as they had both been pondering retirement. She asked them to remain onboard, and Tom was jumping at the bit to be the pilot of this newest starship. So, he would ultimately remain as the pilot with B'Elanna as the Chief Engineer, almost as if time had stood still. Harry would get moved over to the Head of Security, and she promoted Galina to fill Harry's void. That left only the First Officer role to be filled. That would be a tough choice for her because it had to be someone who would oversee the crew, but ultimately be someone she could bounce her ideas off.
The night before Michael was to depart to head back to Deep Space Nine, Kate gave him a tour of Voyager. The crew had not been granted access to the ship yet, but as Captain, she had access at any time. As she and Michael strolled the corridors of the massive ship, she told him of her dilemma in choosing a First Officer.
"Katy, the problem is you've always been a First Officer or Commander. You're not only trying to find a 'you' to hire, but you're also likely looking at your Mom's example of Chakotay. You're never going to find a Chakotay either. Just go with your gut instinct. You and I have discussed this and I know there's one or two individuals that you've tossed around the idea of."
Kate stopped as they had just walked on to the bridge of the ship. It was massive, practically twice the size of the previous Voyager's. The Captain and Commander's seats had not been installed yet, but she stood where those seats would likely be placed, and then she did something somewhat out of character for her – she paced. Michael smirked because Chakotay had told him how Kathryn would pace when she was nervous or had something on her mind.
"Katy Kathryn, you're pacing?" Michael quizzed her, which caused her to halt mid-step.
"Mitchell would be a good fit. He is your friend though, and I wonder how much grief that is going to get me for promoting my husband's friend."
Michael realized where this was going. "Ah, I hadn't thought of it in that way. He and I are friends, as we both grew up in Ireland, but honey, we rarely ever see each other anymore, so we are hardly best friends. And you don't even really know him at all. Although he is a great Starfleet officer."
"I know that. His qualifications are top-notch. He is an excellent officer, but I also know you Irish guys can be a bit of rebel rousers at times, and is that what I really need as the First Officer of my crew?"
Michael nodded, "Who did you really want to put there?"
"Honestly," Kate stated and paused to glance at the console that had been installed between the Captain and Commander's seat. "I had pondered asking B'Elanna to be my First Officer, but having a dual female command team would not likely be logical."
"Phew," Michael said with a relieved tone. "For a minute, I was afraid you might say Seven of Nine."
He knew saying that would send Kate over the edge, and the look she shot him indicated that he knew he had struck a nerve. "I was just kidding, sweetheart."
"You know, it's amazing because everyone knows this ship is the cream of the crop, and everyone has been coming out of the woodwork trying to be my best friend because they either want to serve onboard this ship in some capacity or they want to be my First Officer. I never knew I had such a fan base, but it is a tough decision. Because the First Officer not only handles most of the personnel issues and the matters of the ship, but he or she ultimately is responsible for keeping the Captain in line. It has to be someone I can explicitly trust because I refuse to put myself into another situation as I was in with Calhoun."
"Well, I can certainly understand that. The only other person on your list was, shoot I always forget his name…"
"Sage Walker."
"Yes, Sage. How could I forget that? Well, what's wrong with him? I mean he's half Native American and half-Irish, so seems like a perfect fit to me."
Kate rolled her eyes and shook her head. "Nothing's wrong with him. Sometimes he's a little too perfect. I mean his Starfleet record is impeccable. Both he and Mitchell are serving as First Officers onboard their respective ships. Even though one would think this would be a lateral position, it would be a promotion because of Voyager being a super ship in classification now. On paper, their qualifications are basically mirror images of each other. They're both charming and good looking and meet all of my requirements," she said while allowing a sly smirk to creep across her face.
"Kathryn!" Michael practically wailed and then laughed his infamous hearty Irish laugh.
"You know I'm just kidding. But I think it'll be between those two, but choosing is going to be near impossible."
Michael wrapped his arm around his wife's waist and pulled her closer to him. "Whatever you decide, it'll be the right decision. Have you thought about running it past your Mom or Dad, just to get their opinion or input?"
"Well, if they ever decided to come home from Nouvelle Terre, I might would consider it. But, it's ultimately a choice I have to make myself. Their personalities may be the deciding factor, but I know I'll eventually come to the right decision. I've not talked to either of them about it, but I know they both have expressed strong interest in the position. Anyways, enough of that, let's go. It's your last night before you return to your duties, and well, we won't see each other for quite a while."
"Wanna christen your quarters?" Michael asked while repeatedly raising his eyebrows.
Kate nearly doubled over in laughter. "As much as that sounds appealing, since the final quarter arrangements have not been assigned, we best not do that yet in the event we christen the wrong quarters. I'm sure we'll make a pit stop at Deep Space Nine before long anyways," she added while taking him by the arm and leading him back off the ship.
The next morning was bittersweet for Kate as she escorted Michael to the transport station where he transported to a ship in orbit that would carry him back to Deep Space Nine, where he would resume his regular duties. For the first time in a long time, after Michael had dematerialized, Kate stood on the platform alone, and felt alone. She and Michael had been able to spend a decent amount time together recently and with him leaving, she felt the void as it encompassed her. She felt the weight of the world on her shoulders and in that moment, she only wished that she could fall into her mother's arms. As crazy as it was for a grown woman to be thinking that, sometimes the arms of one's mother is all that's needed to let you know that things would be okay.
But over a month had passed and she had not heard a word from either of her parents. She knew they were okay because Jacques and Sophie would have contacted her otherwise, but Kate secretly wondered just how magical Nouvelle Terre had become for the two of them. She had to focus on her newest task, as Voyager was due to embark on its first mission in a little over a week. She needed to make sure she had met with all the senior staff, who would assist in the crew assignments, and ultimately, she had to decide upon her First Officer.
She briefly stared heavenward and muttered to herself, "Why does this have to be so difficult?"
"Why does what have to be so difficult?" came a reply to Kate's question.
Kate's back was to the person who had replied to her question, but she knew that voice and she couldn't wipe the smile off her face as she whirled around on her heels to find her own mother, donned in her Admiral's uniform standing mere feet from her. Whatever possessed Kate, she couldn't overcome it, but almost as if she were a small child, she picked up the pace and quite literally fell into her mother's awaiting arms.
Kathryn was slightly caught off-guard by Kate's reaction to seeing her. She held her daughter in her arms and slowly stroked her back whispering softly into her daughter's hair, "Sweetheart, are you okay?"
Kate pulled back and slightly chuckled and shook her head while glancing over her mother's shoulder as if she were looking for someone. Kathryn shook her head and said, "It's just me. Chakotay is at home preparing for his class that he has to teach tomorrow, which he ultimately forgot about. I was looking for you, and Tom and B'Elanna said I would likely find you here as you were seeing Michael off, whom I hate I missed saying goodbye to. But, honey, what's the matter?" she questioned while taking each of her daughter's petite hands in her own.
"Oh, Mom," Kate dragged. "I have so many questions I want to ask you, but I'm just plagued right now about why choosing my First Officer is so difficult. I literally am at a loss over what to do."
Kathryn smirked, "Well, why don't we go discuss this over coffee at that cute little café in downtown San Francisco? That way we're away from the Starfleet crowd, and we can catch-up and I'll offer you any input while we gaze out over the sparkling bay waters. What do you say?"
"It sounds absolutely wonderful, Mom," Kate replied while taking Kathryn's hand as they strolled throughout the city. "I've missed being able to talk to you, but ultimately, I knew you were safe and sound because Jacques and Sophie would have notified me otherwise."
Kathryn laughed. "You know you could have contacted us anytime."
"Mom!" Kate protested, "It was your honeymoon, and mine, too, for that matter. I was not about to bother the two of you at Nouvelle Terre. Did you like it?"
Kathryn was silent for a moment and she barely whispered, "It was magical, Kate. Just like New Earth in so, so many ways. We were both mesmerized. You outdid yourself this time, sweetheart."
Kate beamed with pride. "The two of you deserve the best."
For the next few hours, Kate and Kathryn enjoyed a brief time of catching up and discussing the upcoming mission of Voyager, including Kate's choices for First Officer. While Kathryn didn't give any sort of inclination to Kate as to which candidate she would choose, should she have been in Kate's shoes, she listened with great detail and provided some insightful pointers that really helped to ease her daughter's mind about one of the most important decisions that she would have to make.
"Sweetheart, let me say this, choosing a First Officer is important, but at the same time, don't let that be what bogs you down. Take me for instance, my initial First Officer, I didn't take great time worrying and stressing over it. I just went with service record and qualifications, and while he was a wonderful First Officer, and I am not saying at all that I'm glad he passed away, it turned out that he wasn't what I needed. Chakotay quite literally was the enemy and he practically fell into my lap after our ordeal with the Caretaker. I never hesitated for one second in choosing him over some of my other Starfleet officers to be my First Officer.
"Some likely assumed it was to keep peace with the Maquis personnel, and maybe to some extent it was, but I just knew that he was wise, smart, talented and just what Voyager and ultimately I needed. He knew how to take care of the crew. He read me like a book and knew the instant I was about to get out of line or knew when to help reign me in. Above all, he was dedicated and devoted to me. There were many, many times he would stop me from doing something irrational because it was his duty to ultimately protect the Captain, and that was one duty that he took to heart. You'll likely never find another Chakotay. I'm not saying they don't exist, but I have a feeling that's what you are looking for. You, yourself were a fine First Officer onboard Excalibur and Voyager, and you weren't always like Chakotay either. Don't necessarily look for that. You may want one who is more by the books than not. But it's not a bad thing to find one like him, too. It's ultimately your call, but trust your gut and listen to your heart, and don't let anyone convince you otherwise, including me."
Kate reached across the table and rested her hand on top of her mother's. "Thank you. Sometimes I overthink things when I should just go with what my heart has been saying all along. I'm so glad that you're in my life now because I honestly don't know what I would have done without you."
Kathryn smiled. "You're beyond smart, my Kathryn, and I know that even had our paths never crossed that you would still have excelled at whatever you set your mind to. I am beyond proud of you, and I know that no matter who or what you may encounter while in the Captain's seat, that you'll not only do what's best for your crew, you'll honor Starfleet at every turn and ultimately, you'll make me not only one proud Admiral, but one honored woman who is humbled and extremely grateful to say that I'm your Mother."
Kate was humbled by her mother's remarks and she was about to say something when the doors to the exterior patio, where they were seated overlooking the water, opened and out walked her father. He walked directly over to their table and smiled.
"I thought I might find the two of you here," he stated while placing a kiss on Kate's cheek and Kathryn's lips before taking a seat opposite of Kathryn. "I didn't interrupt anything, did I?"
Kathryn and Kate both laughed and shook their heads no.
"We were just catching up on life, I suppose you could say, honey," Kathryn replied for the two of them. "And naturally, I was trying to pry any sort of information I could out of her concerning her upcoming mission."
"Kathryn," Chakotay semi-chided. "Why do we want to know about the mission? I was hoping she'd give us a tour of the ship first. And since you're a ranking Admiral, shouldn't you already have access to her missions?"
Kate smirked in response to what Chakotay had stated before she replied, "He does have a point, you know."
Kathryn tossed both hands in the air and slightly rolled her eyes. "Alright you two! You don't both have to gang up on me at the same time."
Over the course of the next few hours, the trio continued to small chat before they ended up leaving the café to take a stroll in the park along the Bay. Kathryn knew that her daughter was nervous about her upcoming mission, even though she ultimately knew Kate would never admit to it. They stopped at a point in the park that offered picturesque views of the city, Starfleet Command and the Academy and ultimately the Bay. Chakotay looked at Kathryn who nodded up at him and smiled faintly.
"I guess I won't get to see this view for quite a while," Kate whispered so quietly she wasn't sure if she had even uttered the statement.
Instinctively, her parents moved to either side of her and both placed their arms around her. It was Kathryn who broke the silence of the touching moment.
"You know, sweetheart, I know you're nervous about this monumental event that's about to transpire in your life. I'd be lying if I said I wasn't nervous when I was first appointed to Captain and sent on my first mission on Voyager. But, it's okay to be nervous. Being a Captain is a big responsibility, but you were born for this, and I don't say that because both of your parents having been Captains and your ancestors before. You have the characteristics in your own DNA. You're a natural born leader. You are beyond intelligent and can think quickly on your feet. You're the perfect fit for this role, and I know that nothing can stop you when you set your mind to it. Just know that no matter where in the universe you are, Chakotay and I will always be here for you and we are beyond proud of you."
Kate embraced both of her parents and thanked them for all their support. Eventually they made their way back to their residences, where later that evening as she was getting ready to climb in bed, Kate made the decision as to who would be her First Officer, and sent him a message offering him the job. And for once, she was at peace with the decision.