"I want to be of more use to Voyager," Llinos Abbott complained to Chakotay. I know I can do it now!
"What more do you think you can do?" Chakotay queried gently.
His evenings with Abbott were becoming a regular feature. Originally it was an attempt to bring her out of the shell she had built to protect herself from her situation aboard Voyager; An unwilling and not too competent passenger.
Now he was having to admit he was enjoying the attention he was getting from the young ensign and was trying to remain convinced it was still a platonic counselling session. It was proving more difficult now that the sessions were often including a meal as well.
For Abbott's part, she doted on the Commander. He had shown confidence in her and had shown how much he cared when she had been hurt. Now she wanted to prove to him she was more than the mouse attached to Engineering, she was capable, possibly even available.
"How about an away team, or time in Astrometrics?" She suggested brightly. "I know Seven is superb with her sensors, but I can do the Mineralogy better."
Chakotay wavered uncertainly. He seriously doubted if Llinos would be better than Seven at anything scientific. There was something un-nerving about the way Seven could hammer an answer from her sensor suites. Certainly Abbotts record, even in her specialisation, was one of slow competence rather than sprightly brilliance. On the other hand her sudden enthusiasm should be encouraged he reflected.
"I'll have a word with the Captain," he promised.
"I don't think she will agree. She doesn't like me," Abbott observed softly. "She barely says 'hello' anymore."
That was baffling Chakotay as well, Kathryn had never shown any real passion for him, yet she seemed to be acting like the spurned party. He had assured her that his dealings with Abbott were platonic, yet she still seemed less than convinced. He doubted there could ever be anything between the Captain and himself, not while they were in the Delta Quadrant and that was starting to look never ending journey. Kathryn was a friend, often one in need. It was a friendship that had cooled considerably over the last few weeks.
"I'll make sure she accepts," Chakotay assured her, opening the door to peer out cautiously before letting her out. He was not immune to the rumours circulating, the hour was late and the sight of Abbott leaving now would fire the already excessive reports.
She her arms reached up and pulled him into a kiss before she squeezed past, "Thank You." She whispered.
The door closed behind her leaving him thankful that there was nobody in sight at the time to see him respond.
Unfortunately, her arrival had been noticed and news was already circulating.
Perhaps there was a clue there to the Colonels blunt refusal to be rewarded, she wondered, he was not meeting the standards he thought they were setting in their technological world. The notion brought a rueful smile to her face. Perhaps he was not good enough with their science and technology, but he was unique and did things nobody on the ship could match.
I'm sure we can think of something, Neelix offered confidently. Perhaps a party?
Got to be bigger than that, the Colonel shrugged. It needs an announcement that will surprise people. Now what has Naomi got planned for you while I'm slaving over your stove?
Neelix grinned at the change of tack. I think she was planning to take me to the Dark Dungeons of Moffat. It's some kind of fairy story but it sounds quite scary.
Fairy stories are, the Colonel observed. Kids like to be scared when they are having fun, as long as it has a happy ending. I suspect it's their parents that suffer most. One-day I might find out.
There was a sad and wistful air in the Colonel's words that Neelix picked up and it startled him. I thought you weren't worried about having children? he challenged gently.
When Seven announced her intentions I had doubts, the Colonel admitted. But the idea has grown on me since. Now it itches like the pox. But I think she has stopped looking. Now I pray for an accident, but the chance of Seven making that sort of mistake is unlikely.
Neelix struggled not to break the Captain's and Seven's trust, but there was an almost desperate air of something that was struggling to break out in the admission. I'm sure she hasn't, he said hoping it sounded encouraging, but not too encouraging.
The Colonel smiled weakly. he agreed, pulling himself together. I'm sorry, my comments were inappropriate. Please put it down to New Year blues and forget about it. Things will settle soon enough. Besides you are in a similar boat and we have more important things to think of; like the crew?
Neelix escaped quickly, before his own knowledge and feelings got the better of him and the Colonel watched him go before turning to the range and carefully tipping the contents of Neelix's two pans down the replicator and setting to work on a new batch of soup. Nobody in the crew deserved Neelix's bitter Leola soup four days in a row. That job done he activated the Mess holo-graphic piano and sat to pass the time away between occasional visitors.
"Are we ready for a Transwarp jump?" Captain Janeway demanded bringing the meeting to order.
"Shields and structural integrity have all been reinforced," Kim volunteered. "We won't start to collapse again."
It had been a bugbear of their attempts to make transwarp jumps of more than a few hours. Voyager's Cathor designed warp core, coupled with the 'acquired' Borg transwarp coil simply placed too great a stress upon the ships structure.
"I'm still not happy we have enough spare dilithium," B'Elanna warned, thus bringing up the second inherent problem with the pairing. It placed a great strain on the crystals that refined the power, burning them out in rapid order.
The Captain sighed. With Voyagers old power system it had been the Borg device that had proven the weakest link. That had been because they had not been able to tune the output to suit the device they had stolen. The new engines had proven to be better able to accommodate the Borg device and it showed the weaknesses in the rest of the systems.
"Long range astrometrics scans have identified a possible source of replacement Dilithium," Chakotay observed.
"The planet is a primitive class 'M' with no intelligent life. However the atmosphere is extremely dense, it suggests a predominance of marshes. Recovery may be difficult," Seven of Nine warned.
"Apart from a few wet feet, it sounds routine," Captain Janeway dismissed the concerns. "Chakotay put together an away team."
As they trooped out of the Conference Room the Captain turned on Seven of Nine.
"I've never known you to wear makeup Seven?" She challenged. "And you don't normally wear your hair loose. Do you think Alan is getting bored with you or are you planning a steamy date?"
"'Steamy Date'?" Seven of Nine repeated uncertainly.
"An appointment where you have decided that the outcome will be a sexual encounter," the Captain explained with a grin. "Either way I think it unnecessary. First the Colonel is anything but bored with you, quite the opposite. It gets painful to watch at times. The second is pointless, from what I hear you dictate what you do each day."
"Your scenarios are unnecessary," Seven admitted before explaining her new look. "The Colonel noticed a flush in my facial complexion. Ensigns Delaney noticed other facets of my appearance that also highlight my condition. They have attempted to disguise them. They were unsuccessful?"
"I think they went too far," the Captain observed. "Unless you really wanted to scare him. Have there been any other physical problems recently?"
"There is some tension and discomfort in my lower abdomen," Seven of Nine admitted. "It is restricting movement. I have vomited on two occasions after regeneration and I have developed an irrational desire for sweet food items."
"Perhaps you ought to try some looser clothing?" The Captain suggested with a grin. "It sounds as if the baby is developing quickly. It will start to show in a few days at this rate and Alan will notice. When are you going to tell him?"
"Their has been insufficient time to prepare him for the knowledge," Seven protested. "Perhaps after I return from the Away Mission?"
The Captain shook her head. "Your time is up," she declared. "I will not send you on an away mission just to prove you can look after yourself. I suggest you go and wash your makeup off, then explain your feelings to him."
The six man away team, consisting of Chakotay, Abbott, the Colonel and three crewmen, materialised on a small grassy outcrop. They staggered briefly as the oppressive heat and humidity hit them.
"I don't think we want to be here at sunset, Sir," The Colonel commented moodily to Chakotay, gazing around at the landscape of drooping reeds that surrounded them and slapping his neck. "This is mosquito country."
Chakotay grunted and looked at Abbott who was examining her tri-corder with care.
"Which way?" He demanded.
Abbott pointed, "That way," she affirmed. "There is a rock knoll about 300 metres."
Chakotay took a confident step in the direction she had indicated and fell face first into the mud as his foot sank half way up the shin.
He was lifted bodily from the mire by the Colonel. "It's a bit damp, Sir," he opined brightly. "Ever hear of Yomping? Cos now would be a good time to practise?"
Chakotay shook his head ruefully as he tried to wipe off the worst of the mud. "You are going to tell me what it is?"
"It's a sort of quick march over boggy ground. Run quick enough and you don't sink," the Colonel explained, offering the cravat from around his neck to help in the cleaning.
He was surprised when Llinos Abbott took it and started to mop Chakotay down, briefly he wondered if he should reassess his opinion of their relationship.
"I think we would find it difficult to keep up," Chakotay opined after some thought. "But there is always a firmer route. Llinos see if you can find it using the tri-corder."
Abbott turned to the new task with a little less enthusiasm. The Colonel in the mean time waded to a tall standing of reeds and hacked down an armful of long and hard stems.
He had striped them for use as marker sticks by the time Abbott had worked out her route.
Automatically he took a place behind the others as they waded off to follow the young Ensign, carefully inserting a pole every twenty paces or so.
"What do you mean there is a problem with the Transporters?" B'Elanna Paris demanded.
"There is a shortage of power in the energisers, Lieutenant," Lieutenant Vorick reported mildly. "Ensign Collins and Crewman Dorraith are attempting to trace the cause. It should be repaired shortly."
B'Elanna sighed it was an ordinary day aboard Voyager, pity there was an away team out and were expecting to be beamed up at the end they might be a little late, but those were the breaks.
She passed the news to the Captain, before turning her attention back to the shuttle. If the problem was more severe than Vorick confidently predicted then they would need the shuttle she was working on to be ready for service.
The Captain was in consultation with Neelix. The idea that the Colonel felt he did not meet their standards had not left her. In fact it had plagued her thoughts. Now she had an idea. Neelix was the key to its exercise.
"What is on your mind, Captain?" Neelix quizzed, pouring a second mug of coffee for the Captain.
By way of reply the Captain pulled at the small laurel badge on her collar and showed it to Neelix. "The Colonel said that he introduced these to his regiment, so that the men could show their appreciation of individual acts. I want to do the same on Voyager. There are a whole host of people who deserve to be recognised but won't be until we get home. It might help morale aboard the ship."
"And you would like the Colonel to be one of the first recipients?" Neelix suggested knowingly.
"NO!" The Captain protested righteously. "It is important that the crew put forward the names and decide on the recipients and he thinks that. Or he will refuse. I don't want more than a couple given at a time, or it won't mean anything and I don't want to know the result until it has been decided. That is why I want you to administer it."
"I will need some names to offer," Neelix pondered. "Or I'll have 160 names!"
"Produce your own shortlist," the Captain suggested. She drained her mug and left Neelix to ponder.
Finally he entered six names on a PADD and waited for customers and their opinions.
"I tell you Harry, I don't know who is going to take Tuvoks place!" Tom Paris explained. "All I've overheard is that the Colonel refused. Pretty firmly I think, by the Captains face."
They were sat at a corner table in the Mess and Harry Kim was nervous. The prospect of a promotion was in the air and until a year or so ago it would almost certainly have been his. Now there were other candidates and they were prodigies of the Colonel. Somebody who the Captain was known to admire and ask advice from.
Kim had also decided in his own mind that he had more than failed to impress the cynical soldier. Whenever they were together things always seemed to go wrong for Harry Kim. Declaring he had no wish to fly with the Colonel at the controls probably would not help either. He voiced his opinion.
Their discussion was interrupted by the approach of Seven of Nine.
"Seven. Hi!" Tom declared in relief. "Can you tell Harry who the Colonel recommended for Tactical?"
"No," she said simply.
"I told you," Kim hissed.
Tom grinned. "Harry thinks that the Captain will take the Colonel's advice over tactical," he explained.
Seven of Nine looked questioningly at Kim, the infamous eyebrow arching. "Ensign Kim," she declared stonily. "Your prospects of promotion have not been affected by any opinion expressed by the Colonel. It is a Starfleet issue. He has refused to be consulted on the matter."
"But he was invited to take Tactical himself," Tom pointed out mildly.
"He refused," Seven observed. "He does not belong to Starfleet. Nor is he technically competent for the role offered."
"Okay he hasn't ruined me," Kim agreed grudgingly. "What can we do for you?"
"I wish to emphasise that I do not require additional special treatment to the Colonel before he is informed of my condition. But the Captain refused to permit me to join the Away Team," she explained.
"So?"
"The Colonel has an interest in music of a type known as Rock and Roll. I believe that humans danced to this music and it was energetic. Lieutenant Paris has access to numerous holographic versions of this music."
Tom Paris nodded affirmation and waited expectantly.
"I wish to learn the dances known as 'The Twist' and 'The Jive'?"
Both men swallowed hard. They knew of the dances and learning them would probably be interesting, but not with Seven of Nine.
Seven of Nines reputation on the dance floor was unenviable. Even if they survived the experience they were unlikely to survive the Colonel when he found out.
"Are you sure?" Tom asked in the end. "You know what they are? They aren't dances, they are free-form wrestling matches. With your Borg enhancements you could end up ripping him in two, let alone us!"
"You will not assist?" She accused.
Tom looked desperately at Harry Kim for support but found none. "You can have my programmes," he offered, "and I'm sure Miller can supply the instruction."
Seven of Nine turned on an angry heel and left.
Corporal Miller proved only slightly more enthusiastic than Tom Paris when Seven of Nine activated him in the holodeck thirty minutes later. After threatening dire consequences if he did not assist and promising a few things if he did, he relented.
After an hour, and pains that made her abdominal problems pale into insignificance she returned to Astrometrics, wiser but no less determined.
The Colonel stretched carefully after his session in the hole that the Away Team had dug.
The first batch of crystal had appeared readily enough, but had been rejected by Ensign Abbott due to faults and impurities. They had been working the scrape for a good eight hours, mining out the required Dilithium in short shifts as the oppressive heat and humidity took their toll. The crystals that were being prised from the ground now were perfect. But it was a slow and difficult process and they had only just over half a bucket of crystal to show for it.
He gazed around at the reeds with continued distrust as the evening started to draw around them. Their location felt too much like the plague fields. The small biting insects that had been a nuisance during the day would become far more problematical during the evening.
"I think we will have to call it a day, Sir," his voice rose a little in alarm as a cloud of insects formed over the reeds some distance away.
Chakotay looked up from the pit from where he had taken the Colonel's place and wiped the sweat from his eyes before peering in the direction the Colonel was pointing. The cloud the Colonel had witnessed was milling ominously above the reeds about 400 metres away. One look was enough to have him accepting the Colonel's recommendation. Everybody had suffered at the hands of the insects during the day, the swarm promised insufferable discomfort.
He slapped at a fly that landed on his arm. "Agreed, We'll head back for the landing site," he agreed mildly reaching for his communicator.
Quickly the team gathered their equipment and set off on the circuitous route that had brought them to the outcrop, the Colonel trailing behind them watching the swarm.
"Down!" He yelled suddenly, throwing himself at the two closest crewmen, hurling them into the mud.
Chakotay glanced over his shoulder and saw a dark mass descending on them. Without hesitating he also dived forward, bringing the third crewman down in the process, pressing his struggling form into the mud and water as they were surrounded by flying insects.
The Ensign Abbott at the front was caught in the open. She screamed as thousands of the insects descended upon her before she could follow the actions of the others.
The attack lasted less than a minute, before they lifted away again.
Carefully they rose from the mud, coughing and spluttering, looking around.
"They haven't gone far," Chakotay observed as he spotted the swarm milling barely 200 metres away. "So I assume they will be back."
He turned his attention back to the fallen Ensign Abbott and the Colonel who was examining her. The her face had become a seething mass of red and oozing boils and she was writhing in the mud as the Colonel tried to stop her scratching.
"This needs rather more than 'Waspeeze' and anti-histamine," the Colonel grunted as he finally pinned her hands down. "She needs a medivac."
Chakotay nodded and patted where his communicator usually sat, to find it missing, pulled off in the ooze. "Anybody still got their communicator?" He asked.
The Colonel grinned and reached into the top pocket of his flak jacket. "I always put mine in my pocket when I change into junglies," he admitted handing the device up. "Otherwise somebody might think I was Starfleet?"
"Voyager. Six to beam out, medical emergency," Chakotay demanded as he fitted the communicator to his tunic.
There was a pregnant pause before Harry Kims apologetic voice returned. "I'm having problems with the Transporters, Commander. We need a few minutes."
Chakotay looked at the Colonel. "Have you anything in all those pockets to discourage the insects from another attack?"
The Colonel shrugged. "My midge stick didn't work at home, so I don't carry it anymore. I have a small smoke canister, but it won't last more than a few minutes, and a tube of quinine, but that doesn't stop them biting."
We'd better keep moving, Chakotay decided.
I've lost the tri-corder, Abbott gasped, her voice barely a whisper from her swollen throat. I dropped it when I was attacked.
Doesn't matter, Duck. I'm sure the Commander will list it Missing in Action', you won't have to pay for it. We'll just follow the sticks, the Colonel grinned encouragingly, struggling to his feet with her in his arms.
Voyager to Away Team. We have a lock Commander. But we can only manage two at a time, Kim's voice sounded. We're having trouble with the energisers, he explained.
Take Abbott first, Chakotay demanded. I'll wait until last.
The Colonel looked up from where he was cradling the wheezing Ensign and nodded laying her out for the transporter. I'll wait for the last call, Sir. I'll need fumigating when I'm brought aboard. I can feel a couple of them inside my jacket.
Vaguely Chakotay remembered the Colonel had been slower in taking to the relative safety of the water than he had during the last attack. He took a long look at the Colonel, a number of swellings were marking his face and hands, he was also starting to gasp for air.
You didn't take cover during the last attack, did you? He asked quietly as Abbott and the first crewman dissolved.
Had to stop Ensign Abbott being attacked again, Sir, he admitted. With her breathing like it is, if I pushed her under the water she would have drowned. I kept her covered with my flak jacket.
The Colonel questioned.
Why do you do it? Chakotay demanded. Keep putting others before yourself? You have a wife you will hurt, you love her don't you?
More than anything, the Colonel admitted, sinking to the floor his eyes closing as the lids started to swell. But I also have a promise to keep. I promised the Captain I would protect the ship and crew with my life. Mrs Nine understands that.
Ensign Abbott woke the next day to find she had been immobilised on a medical couch and a frantic need to scratch her cheek. She also found she was sharing the sickbay with the Colonel also secured to a medical couch.
Morning Duck, he grinned at her. The Doctor thinks we need to avoid scratching.
But why are you here? She asked in mild confusion. I thought you had escaped the worst of the insects?
I did! But I couldn't let you have all the fun. A couple of them got inside my coat and trousers. Consequently me bum itches like fury, he explained cheerfully. Besides we've all spent some time in here, with the Doctor clucking around worrying about the plague.
She grinned slowly at the thought as a vague memory of her head being pushed under canvas came to mind. You tried to protect me didn't you? She accused.
The Commanders jacket is too thin to offer much protection, Miss. Now I'm sure if you call him, I'm sure the Doctor will be delighted to appear? Perhaps he'll release us?
She drew a breath to do as he suggested then had second thoughts. Corporal Miller said you aren't a proper officer. You're only a sergeant. Is that true?
The Colonel grinned. Sort of, he admitted. I was a sergeant. Then some fool in a flat hat stapled a pip to my shoulder.
He also said NCO's run the army, not officers?
The Colonel thought a little before answering that question. They do, he admitted at last. They've kicked about, they know all the ropes and what is and isn't possible for his squad. Not even a battle-scared old fool like me will ignore what his sergeant tells him.
Now I've answered your questions, perhaps you can answer one of mine? He asked. How intent are you on the Commander?
You don't have to answer, he added quickly as Abbott blushed deeply. It has nothing to do with me. It's just that it isn't doing your reputations a lot of good as it stands.
I think I love him, Abbott whispered. He tries to look after me, like you do for Seven?
That's good enough for me, the Colonel accepted quickly. Now you need to find if he thinks the same way. Just remember you don't need to be as big a prize idiot as me to find out.
His voice rose. Come on out, Doctor. You lazy bugger. The young lady wants to go somewhere comfortable!
I must insist upon the correct terminology, the Doctor hissed as he materialised between them.
It's not an emergency, the Colonel observed. So anything that will get you out of bed is good.
You don't use correct terminology in an emergency either, the Doctor snapped in mock irritation and turning his attention to Abbott.
He pondered over his tri-corder for a moment before asking, Any dizziness, headaches, violent itching sensations or other symptoms of having had to talk to the caveman?
My cheek itches, Abbott admitted.
I'll give you some cream, the Doctor agreed releasing the restraints. You should rest until your next shift.
What about me, Doctor? The Colonel demanded. It's only me bum that's itching. Why can't I go?
I wish to carry out more tests. There was some unusual brain activity whilst you were unconscious, the Doctor explained. You will remain where you are until I am satisfied.
Tests be blowed, the Colonel hissed struggling with the forcefield that held him.
And come near me with your knockout drops an I'll make you eat them! He added as the Doctor approached hefting a heavy hypo-spray.
The Doctor turned and left him alone in the alcove.
Come on, Doc! The Colonel pleaded to his retreating back. Fair's fair. Aven't I been a good boy long enough?
I'll find Seven and get her to come along? Abbott offered approaching his bed. I'm sure she can persuade the Doctor to release you.
She grinned and pecked him on the forehead. Then giggled as he blushed.
She followed the Doctor to pick up the promised cream, leaving the Colonel to fume.
What can I get for you, Seven? Neelix asked Seven of Nine as she limped lightly into the Mess. Perhaps you would care to add your vote to the awards? For the Colonel perhaps?
Seven regarded him coldly, taking her usual confrontational stance. I have no need to vote for the Colonel, she declared. He performs to specification. Rewarding him for so doing is illogical, he would refuse.
But he does things no one else can! Neelix protested.
You are in error, Seven retorted. There are crew members that can achieve the same roles as the Colonel fulfils. The Colonel is unique aboard this ship in that he brings those roles together.
You are preparing a Party' for your rewards ceremony? She challenged, before Neelix could protest again. I wish to provide the entertainment.
The statement took Neelix by surprise and it showed clearly on his face. he said slowly after some thought. Are you sure? Will it be suitable, the Captain wants something light. What are you intending?
It will be suitable and educational, Seven assured him calmly.
Neelix pondered her assurance, very carefully. Seven was an onlooker and occasional participant, usually only after much encouragement. She had never volunteered to arrange anything, certainly not entertainment. He almost shuddered at what she might include. The thought of lessons in advanced Astrometric Navigational Mathematics slipped through his mind. It was dismissed quickly, that would be the Doctors idea and she and her humanity had outgrown that.
I suppose it will be okay, Neelix agreed uncertainly, deciding he would arrange an alternative just in case.
The Captain wants the party tonight on Holodeck 1, he called after her. Seven was already marching for the door to make her preparations.
Captain Janeway looked up from her copy of the away team and ships debriefings and looked directly at where Chakotay normally sat opposite her desk.
She sighed wistfully. The ship and crew were all performing at an all time low. The dilithium expedition was a near disaster. There had been too much complacency. She reflected. Most of it was hers for thinking it would be routine, not having a full set of environmental scans done and chasing Engineering to get the transporters fixed.
Even the Colonel had not been immune. But that was probably her fault as well! She had seen he was worrying about something else
She sighed again. I expect him to be at least as reliable as a tri-corder. Perhaps I put too much faith in him? She wondered aloud.
She wished Chakotay was there to give gentle thoughts and guidance, the problems needed to be sorted and quickly. Except that he had insisted on the need to debrief that girl again.
In resignation she stood and strode out of her quarters. A walk before the party might relieve her mood. The fact that it was directed towards the quarters shared between Seven and the Colonel had nothing to do with it.
Arriving at the door she self-consciously pulled at her jacket to straighten it and tightened up the collar, before announcing her presence. Not that she was nervous, she tried to tell herself as she responded to Seven's invitation to enter. It was just to compliment the standards the Colonel set for himself when visiting.
She managed to take four steps into the room before what her eyes registered stopped her in shock.
Seven of Nine was sat at the table regarding herself in a small mirror. Neatly arranged across the tables surface were a huge range of phials and jars and a carefully discarded, but empty, make-up bag.
Then there was Seven herself, dressed in a pale pink skirt and blouse she looked as unSevenesque as it was possible to get. The Captain had an even greater surprise when she turned around in her seat.
She had hit the cosmetics big time.
Although she had applied the make-up in the right places; lipstick on her lips, blusher on her cheeks and so on. Seven had made the fateful mistake of applying too much, trying to make up for the minute errors she had inevitably made and picked up upon by applying more.
Seven! What have you done? All thoughts of her own problems left the Captains mind in one exasperated explosion.
Seven of Nine gazed back with mild surprise showing on her face. The details are necessary for the entertainment this evening. I believe I have made some errors in the application of the makeup.
The Captain repeated. You are intending to tell the Colonel you are pregnant? She hazarded carefully.
Affirmative. I believe he will be more amenable to the information if he is enjoying himself.
I think you had better tell me what you have planned, the Captain sighed. If only so I can ensure that there is security available. If he sees you like that he won't be enjoying himself. He'll be bouncing off of the walls too fast!
The Colonel has expressed an interest in and knowledge of Earth Rock and Roll, Seven explained.
the Captain agreed, kneeling in front of Seven she reached for a pack of wipes and started to remove make up. He would have been a teenager then.
I have carried out research into the music. I have discovered that people performed energetic dances to the music, Seven continued. I intend to engage the Colonel in dances of the period to prove I am capable of performing adequately in spite of my condition. The garments were part of the uniform worn at that time.
With a practised hand the Captain tossed a wipe at the recycler. It missed and she tsked in annoyance, before reaching for another. She paused before applying it. Never before had she felt more like a mother; kneeling before her daughter, cleaning her up and passing good motherly advice.
she started gently. In all the huge steps you have made in finding humanity, I think you've missed some important ones. Be what you are. You don't have to try and hide things from people, you will never be very good at it. Certainly not with the man you've chosen.
You believe the preparations are unnecessary? Seven queried uncertainly.
Candidly, Yes! The Captain asserted. He is going to furious with you for not telling him sooner anyhow, slapping makeup around and dressing like an Andoran hooker won't help.
Besides pink doesn't suit you, she added with a hint of a smile. Now get dressed properly and I'll see about finding him?
I asked the Doctor to detain him, Seven said as the Captain started for the door.
If you've come to gloat at my predicament then you can sod off as well, Ma'am, the Colonel observed lightly from his still restrained and recumbent position on the bio-bed as she entered the Sick Bay. And if you would be so good as to turn the lights out as you go, a chap might get some sleep.
Actually I came to release you. Seven had something special arranged for you, the Captain responded in kind. But as you seem to be comfortable, I'll leave you here.
You don't have to do that, Ma'am. Just get me off this plank. I'd rather do a month in the Can than spend a day strapped to a doctors slab!
The Captain grinned and released the forcefield and watched as he slowly flexed his limbs and scratched.
Would it be a violation of trust if you told me what Mrs Nine has planned? The Colonel asked after a few moments. It's just that I never seem to come out ahead when she decides to surprise me.
the Captain affirmed. Come on, I'll take you down to the Holodeck now.
Via quarters, Ma'am? The Colonel sighed. Whatever it is, I doubt combat kit will be suitable.
the Captain agreed. I want your advice anyhow.
Twenty minutes later Captain Janeway and the Colonel appeared on the holodeck arms linked. They released each other tactfully as Seven of Nine approached and the Captain sank into a chair. To Seven, she looked as if she had received a shock.
Is Commander Chakotay here yet, Seven? The Colonel whispered as he took her into his arms and nuzzled her neck affectionately.
Seven nodded towards the far wall where Chakotay and Ensign Abbott were sat at a small table with a small group of crewmen.
We'll let the Captain come to her senses in peace then, the Colonel decided. What is this great surprise you have?
It will begin shortly, Seven assured him.
Do you wish to give out the rewards, Captain? Neelix asked approaching the Captain with some caution and offering her a PADD. Then we can get started?
I suppose I ought, she declared, putting her own problems aside with a small smile. Lets look at the results?
She took the offered PADD and scanned the four names.
He's not on here! She exclaimed in surprise.
No, Captain, Neelix admitted with an apologetic shake of the head. You only wanted a few given and the Colonel came well down the list, below even me. I think people just expect him to be there when he's needed.
The Captains face fell. That is what he expects people to think. So people do, she muttered. I really hoped I would prove him wrong for once. Well lets get it done with.
She stood and made way resolutely towards the stage that had been arranged in the corner of the Holodeck and cleared her throat.
Crew and family of Voyager, she began bringing the crew to order. Several years ago the Colonel presented me with a laurel badge, his regimental award for those that performed above and beyond the call of duty and achieved something that could not normally be expected of them. I admit I am still proud of it and I regret that there are many people aboard that deserve some recognition, but may never do so for a long time, if ever. So I asked Neelix to introduce a similar scheme for Voyager. He has presented me with six names of those you believe have met those same requirements.
The Captain paused for a moment before continuing. The following had better step forward: Ensigns Claris Winston, Llinos Abbott, Lieutenant Joe Caerey, Corporal Christopher Miller. All for their actions against the Borg.
With the exception of the holographic Corporal all stepped forward, Winston managing a passable attempt at the Colonel's halt, right knee coming high before the foot crashed to the floor.
Corporal Miller appeared more hesitantly. I'm sorry, Ma'am. I am not permitted to accept without express permission.
The Captain covered her surprise with a grin and looked directly at the Colonel, leaning on the bar. Can he accept? She asked hopefully. He was acting on behalf of Starfleet?
If he can manage to at least look as if he belonged to the British Army and not some cast-off from the Sally-Ann, then I grant permission as Senior British Officer, the Colonel agreed with some amusement. Carry on Corporal,
Corporal Miller snapped a pristine salute. His image flickered for a moment and he reappeared in full ceremonial, before he marched crisply to join the medals parade.
The still smiling Captain picked out her small badges and attached them firmly to the collars of her crew, until she arrived at Ensign Abbott.
For a brief moment the smile faltered as her brown eyes met with Abbott's green ones. Then she blinked and the smile was regained.
I think we have witnessed a remarkable change in you Ensign. Congratulations! She declared evenly as she quickly pinned the badge in place. Just as quickly she turned away and nodded to Neelix, before rejoining the Colonel.
From the cue, Neelix activated the holographic programme Seven of Nine had supplied.
Five figures materialised and immediately launched into the first of the pieces Seven had researched.
The Colonel's face changed slowly from surprise as he recognised the song to one of delight. You've been diving amongst the dodgy histories again, he declared to Seven grinning broadly. Peggy Sue is one we used to play.
Don't tell me you used to be a Rock band? The Captain gasped. What as lead?
No Ma'am, the Colonel assured her. We were Skiffle. Couldn't afford drums on four shillings a week after stoppages. I was on washboard and fire bucket, Tommy Murphy on Tea-Base, Tommy Johns on Banjo and Tommy Wiseman did vocals and spoons. Called ourselves The Tommies', until Her Majesty called us to other duties.
I think you had better tell me the story at some other time, Captain Janeway grinned. I can tell it is one of those I won't believe and Seven is impatient for her dance.
The Colonel queried carefully turning back to Seven. Only ever watched it. Never had the courage to ever ask a girl to join me.
"Nobody can until they try, you should follow me, Seven paraphrased sternly. Gripping him firmly by the arm she led him to the dance floor.
The Captain settled to watch the display with fascination.
Seven of Nine was throwing herself into the action with enthusiasm as she attempted to make her point. The Colonel after some trepidation started by following Seven's commands to the letter, then gained in confidence and ambition, rolling her over his back, letting her spin through the splits and finally a toss into the air, catching her safely and carrying into an orbit around himself.
As a display of faith and trust between them, the Captain decided, it was total. Seven had total faith in the Colonel's abilities to catch her, the Colonel in Seven's instructions being totally accurate. She wondered if she would ever be able to do the same.
It's very impressive, Captain, Neelix observed respectfully from the other side of the counter. But is it dancing and will it work?
I don't know if it is or not, the Captain admitted. But it ought to! I don't think Seven has touched the floor with her feet more than the four times in the last three minutes!
The sight of several other of the ships romances heading for the floor made her smile again. Tom and B'Elanna wouldn't be daft enough to try the same moves. B'Elanna would flatten Tom if he tried to swing her around. But it was not impossible that Winston and Kala might try some of the less ambitious efforts, she decided.
I now remember the other good reason for not dancing like that, a red faced and blown Colonel commented as he rejoined the Captain at the bar rubbing his shoulder gingerly. It damn well hurts!
But you were enjoying yourself, the Captain challenged happily.
Yes, well it's a once in a while thing, Ma'am, the Colonel assured her. Unless you want to try?
The Captain shook her head. I'm too old, she declared, And I have my dignity.
Not as old as I am, Ma'am, the Colonel pointed out pragmatically before returning his attention to Seven of Nine. I'm surprised you didn't turn up in circular skirt and bobby socks?
The Captain advised it was unnecessary to make my point, Seven stated calmly.
The Colonel questioned.
That I do not require special care, Seven explained.
Special care? He questioned again.
While I am pregnant.
The Colonel was showing signs of confusion now.
A generic term given to a female that is to bear live young, Seven defined.
I know what pregnancy is, the Colonel agreed. Who is?
I am.
The Captain, Seven and Neelix watched the news visibly filter through the Colonel as he sank onto a chair, his face draining of colour. Automatically his arm reached out and grabbed at the first glass it met and he drained it, ignoring the flowers that had been placed in it.
I think I am hearing things, he whispered. I swear you just said you are pregnant?
Your hearing is not impaired, Seven assured him, enjoying her moment.
And you let me do that with you? And you let her Captain?
Seven thought you would get over protective and I agree with her, the Captain agreed. She does not need it.
But it was dangerous. You could have got hurt and the baby! The Colonel complained. How long have you known?
Ten days, nine hours, thirty four minutes. We believe that I have been in this state for five weeks. The danger was minimal you are an efficient partner, Seven declared.
The Colonel wasn't listening. He was muttering over to himself. A baby. I am going to have a baby.
Finally he looked up. You wicked girl. Why didn't you tell me earlier? He demanded with dignity, then broke down in tears.
Seven, take him away, a shocked Captain ordered softly. You've made your point. Now you'll have to make it up to him.
Seven nodded and gently supported her sobbing husband as he rose to his feet, then half carried him towards the door as the rest of the crew watched in silence.
Well that is a rarity, Kim commented to Megan and Jenny Delaney as they watched the couple disappear from sight. Who would have thought he could go to pieces like that!
I think it's rather sweet, Jenny giggled. Hard as deuterium armour outside and as squidgy as Neelix's custard inside.
We could make you like that if we wanted, Megan cautioned.
You aren't going to tell me like that when it's our turn? Tom asked B'Elanna with trepidation.
I'm not going to tell you at all. Until I push it in to your arms, B'Elanna assured him happily. But then you aren't the Colonel. You're soft all the way through!
For a few minutes the Captain reflected upon the events as the party started to get underway again. She had been in agreement with Seven the Colonel would have become over protective. But from the display, she had not realised just how protective the Colonel would be, how desperate he was, or how cruel what Seven had arranged would prove to be.
I think Seven will be a dangerous person to be near, the Doctor suggested. The news has made him unstable. I'll follow them and give him something to calm him down.
Just let him recover with Seven. She knows what to do, she's done it before, the Captain snapped. He'll be alright in a few minutes, then we can forget just how weak he can be again.
I will need to do a psychological profile, the Doctor argued. If he can be brought into this state simply learning that his wife is pregnant, there is no telling what he would be like if she was in any form of danger.
I know what he'll do, the Captain hissed. I don't need I PADD for that. I've seen it. He will be totally ruthless in dealing with the danger. Then release the emotion afterwards. You will leave him alone unless Seven asks for help.
With that she turned away and marched towards the door. She had intended to deal with her other problems before she left, but events had rendered her incapable of dealing with them, perhaps tomorrow would be easier.
Seven of Nine to Captain Janeway.
The Captain had barely reached the door of her quarters before Seven of Nine's voice rattled her communicator.
Yes Seven, what's up? She asked with a sense of trepidation.
You should report to the Mess, Seven declared. The Colonel requires your advice.
With a sigh the Captain turned and made her way back towards the Mess.
She found them sat at a window table and almost grinned as the Colonel sprang to his feet and saluted her, seemingly fully recovered.
Permission to speak, Ma'am? He requested formally.
What advice do you want, Colonel? She asked.
Not so much advice as answers, Ma'am.
Carry on Colonel, she agreed mildly.
First I formally apologise for my reactions earlier, Ma'am, he commenced. It was unseemly of me and embarrassed yourself and a number of the crew. Do you want me to make a formal and public apology to those concerned?
I don't think it will be necessary. But could you do that? She asked incredulously.
The Colonel nodded. I thought Mrs Nine had stopped looking and hoping, Ma'am. I think it was relief.
The second request, Ma'am, the Colonel continued. Mrs Nine has explained what she requires me not to do. I will not be able to comply to all her wishes. We have compromised and I have promised to try and keep to them. I will need help, Ma'am.
What sort of help? The Captain demanded warily.
Somebody who will tell me in no uncertain terms when I go wrong and isn't afraid to shoot me when I lose control, Ma'am.
Why shoot? She asked in alarm.
Because it will be the only way to stop me, Ma'am. I will hand my weapons to Ensign T'Pau tomorrow morning.
Okay, I'll help when I can, the Captain agreed. But I'm not shooting you unless you are a danger to the ship. If you think you are treading near the mark you can come and see me and we can discuss things until you are comfortable again. Agreed?
Good. Now good night, the Captain declared turning to go. Go and get used to the idea of being a father in waiting.
There was one other thing, Ma'am, the Colonel interrupted. We would like your permission to call the baby Kathryn' if it is a girl?
The Captain stopped and turned slowly. Why ask? She demanded.
It is traditional to request permission to use the name of the commanding officer, Ma'am, the Colonel assured her.
Ask me nearer the time, the Captain sighed. Good Night!
