Some secrets don't get to remain a secret very long. More changes in B'Elanna were starting to be noticed by others outside of Engineering. The fact that she did not throw a colossal fit when the captain suggested that she and Seven work together made more than a few people suspicious that she was planning something. It has been 8 months since her injury and strange sick leave so her staff has decided that there is no other shoe to drop. They no longer paid any attention to her 19 minute break and probably would have considered it abnormal if she didn't take it. They simply worked around her schedule. Seven noticed while they were upgrading the forward nacelles and realigning the warp core 6 months ago. She never commented. On the few occasions that she was in Engineering, she realized that it was not a one time event and that the crew paid no attention to it. That did not stop her from being curious. She picked up on the fact that Lt. Torres never mentioned it or made any announcement as to where she was going or when she would be back. She also noticed that the crew continued working as if it were expected.

Perhaps Seven would not be interested in Lt. Torres' actions if her attitude and behavior hadn't changed. B'Elanna still would not tolerate unauthorized changes to any ship's system or permit Seven's previous attempts at tinkering. For her part, Seven realized that, as inefficient as it was, if she simply submitted a request or asked Lt. Torres to make certain changes or systems upgrades to Astrometrics, B'Elanna would agree. Often times, if Seven stated exactly what she wanted, B'Elanna would simply allow her to make the changes on her own without submitting a request. She was not sure what to make of it and felt it necessary to consult and outside authority. Her disposition was just too much of an alteration in her previous continence to go unnoticed.

Seven was not sure who would be best to pose her observation. The captain encouraged her to seek her out with questions on humanity and dealing with the crew on a personal level in her attempt to fit in. Some of her lessons were strange and the analogies she offered illogical. Tuvok was much better at answering her questions in a way she could understand, though he was not human and did not express emotions. Seven quickly learned that most of his thoughts and theories were based on many years of careful study as a neutral outside observer. She decided he would be the one to consult. Once she explained the situation to Tuvok he took a few minutes to compose his thoughts before answering. While he had some suspicions as to the root of Lt. Torres' change in disposition, he could not address them directly.

"On its face, some of the actions of many members of the crew, human or not, seem extremely illogical and inefficient. However, you have noticed that in the past you were unable to successfully carry out your desired changes without extreme opposition from Lt. Torres."

"Yes, we more often than not, ended up in arguments that either required the intervention of security or the captain to mediate before the situation was resolved."

"And you now find that simply making a request to Lt. Torres eliminates that?"

"Yes, she either agrees to make the changes during that shift or the next available one. At times, she simply allows me to do it myself without supervision as long as I record the exact systems I am altering and submit a report specifying the changes I made."

"Do you find her requirement that a report be filed of the changes you make logical?"

"I did not in the beginning but she explained that if she and her staff were unaware of any of my upgrades it could cause problems in other areas."

Seven shifts just a bit uncomfortably in her seat as she recalls her disregard for B'Elanna's rules early on and how that caused a complete power drain that shut down transporters and burned out several gel packs in numerous areas of the ship. Still she felt she had to defend herself,

"It is still an inefficient means of working. Within the Borg, one simply solved a problem when it occurred and there was no need to waste time discussing it or filing reports."

"Your logic is flawed."

That caused a high arching eyebrow in response.

"Explain."

"Borg exist within a collective. The hive mind insures that everyone is aware of the thoughts of others. Reports are filed but in a different manner. The problem is discussed but non verbally. The collective consciousness disseminates the information to everyone instantaneously. We are not a part of a collective. We are individuals."

Seven had not considered this at all. In all the time she was on board Voyager, the captain never presented the situation in this manner.

"So you are saying that my actions were illogical, not Lt. Torres?"

"To some degree. Her reactions to you were emotional and unproductive as well. Everyone on board this ship is required to follow certain rules and procedures. That is the only way that we can function properly. As individuals, our performance does not rise to a level of efficiency as the Borg but we were not intended to do so. There are many things individuals can accomplish that the Borg never will. Applying Borg practices and logic to individuals is illogical."

"Thank you for that assessment I had not considered this. Do you have an opinion as to why Lt. Torres no longer yells at me or is no longer angered by my presence in Engineering?"

"Perhaps your willingness to be flexible has some bearing on the situation."

"No. She is the one who initiated a change in our interactions. She is the one who refrained from becoming angry when I entered Engineering the day we tested the upgrades to the warp core. She accepted my presence and asked if I had a preference as to where I wished to work for the day. Then she asked if I was available to remain beyond Alpha shift if necessary. Finally, she placed me in charge of her department and left."

Tuvok was not aware of this information though it is logical to conclude that Lt. Torres made some observations or decisions about preserving her own honor while working with Seven.

"Not all actions or situations require dissection. Have you responded positively to her attempts at creating a more efficient and less hostile work environment?"

"Yes. It was not my intention to do so but I found that I instinctively reacted to her behavior. She is a very skilled engineer and I find that her creative mind is able to make leaps of intuitive logic that I am not."

"Is that displeasing?"

"Not necessarily. I find myself questioning the validity of my abilities."

"How so?"

"I am artificially enhanced by the Borg. I have the knowledge of countless species within me. I have an eidetic memory and have assimilated everything I know about engineering or science from the Borg or this ship's computer core. Lt. Torres has none of those things. Her ability is natural. Her thought process seems chaotic at times but she consistently manages to create viable solutions to the most overwhelming problems. She also had no knowledge of Borg systems before I came aboard this ship and yet she is the one who works with the Doctor when I malfunction."

"It is an inefficient use of time to question your ability. You have all of the things you mentioned and you know why you have them. Perhaps you are learning that Borg principles are not applicable in all situations, especially among individuals. Your initial dismissal of everyone on board this ship, and especially Lt. Torres, as inefficient and inferior was not, perhaps, the most effective means of fostering a productive working environment. Vulcans working with humans centuries ago made the same mistakes. Had we simply observed that, while they are emotional beings who allow those feelings to rule them, it works for them at times. And they are at their most creative and most productive when they are allowed to experience their emotions. They are also at their most destructive. It is a...catch 22, I believe."

"Thank you. This has been most informative. Your assessment and counsel have been of great assistance to me over the past two years."

"I am gratified to be of assistance."

Armed with these new insights and perspectives from Tuvok, Seven thought that closer attention to Lt. Torres was required. She noticed that as the Lt.'s attitude about her presence in Engineering changed, so did that of the crew. They greeted her as if she were welcome and not there to threaten their boss. She also noted that with the exception of Vorik, which is understandable as he is Vulcan, people smiled when they met her eye and were nicer to her. She was not sure what to make of this behavior but was certain that it was a direct result her interactions with Lt. Torres.

"Interesting. Because she is nice to me, the crew has decided to be as well."

Then Seven admitted that she was nicer to them. She did not demand and she did not constantly point out deficiencies in their work. Once she accessed previous encounters she noticed that she did that a great deal in the past. Still, curiosity got the better of her and she wanted to know where Lt. Torres went for 19 minutes everyday during Alpha shift. She knew it was not her business but she hoped that it might give her some greater understanding as to the alteration in the Lt.'s behavior towards her. Knowing that B'Elanna had enhanced hearing, sight and olfactory senses, Seven kept a wide berth between them just in case. She watched B'Elanna leave Engineering on schedule and head down the corridor to the turbo lift. Knowing that she could not follow she checked the destination and noted that it stopped on deck 9. [Officer's quarters?] Seven was not sure where she thought B'Elanna was headed but she hadn't considered that she was going to her quarters. The computer verified that she was inside. At exactly 12:15, she left her quarters and returned to main Engineering. Seven had to admit that B'Elanna timed it perfectly. Exactly two minutes was needed to travel between Engineering and her quarters and B'Elanna factored in an additional two minutes for the return trip. Instead of solving the mystery, Seven had more of one. She could not figure out what B'Elanna was doing in her quarters that required precisely 15 minutes each day.

It did not take long for her to put the pieces together after she started noticing other things about B'Elanna. Aside from her weekly social lessons with the Doctor, studies in humanity with the captain, time with Tuvok, and her recreational activity with Naomi Wildman, Seven spent the majority of her day working Astrometrics or finding other work on board the ship to do when she was not regenerating. This left her with a considerable amount of time in solitude. She would never phrase it as such but, for the first time in her life, Seven of Nine was bored. There could be no other reason to explain her growing obsession with unraveling the mystery that was B'Elanna Torres. No, she would never phrase it as such. If asked, Seven would merely state that she was engaged in a study of individuality to enhance her understanding and broaden her perspective of humanity. She conveniently left off the small part about B'Elanna being Klingon because it did not completely fit into the parameters of her alleged scientific experiment.

Once she took a closer look at Lt. Torres, Seven noticed that there were some changes in her physical appearance. From the time she arrived on Voyager, B'Elanna wore a short hair style known as a bob or a page boy. Both of these names sounded ridiculous to Seven and she saw no connection between the name and the style. The names did not conjure up a mental image that had anything to do with hair so she dismissed them as irrelevant and moved on. Now she noticed that Lt. Torres wore her hair pinned up in a manner similar to her own but not as—severe. She surmised that B'Elanna was no longer cutting her hair. That potential revelation gave her no information that would assist her in understanding the reasons Lt. Torres no longer engaged hostile interactions with her.

As the weeks went by, Seven was gathering no new information to answer any of her questions. She briefly considered asking the Lt. why she was nice to her but decided against it. The Doctor spoke often about not 'rocking the boat'. It took some time for her to understand the concept but once he explained she was able to extract a clear picture from the imagery that the phrase induced.

"Perhaps Lt. Torres has not noticed that she is no longer hostile toward me? It would be illogical to call it to her attention if she is likely to resume her previous behavior once she is made aware of the situation."

Seven decided that she should do something more productive than watching and speculating. The Doctor's social lesson #18, 'how to win friends and influence people', came to mind. Initially, she thought it was irrelevant. Why waste time with either of those concepts? The only time she spoke with Lt. Torres was during a shared project or when she had a request to make. But, the Doctor informed her that individuals are more likely to open the lines of communication and get to know one another during social outings. Seven had little interest in participating in the numerous social activities on board Voyager. She did notice that B'Elanna Torres shared her and Tuvok's reluctance to attend and only did so when the captain issued a direct order to senior staff.

Seven was not so caught up in finding answers to her own dilemma to notice that Lt. Paris stopped suggesting recreation events several months ago. She could not determine the exact time but she was certain that he had not made any suggestion since the away mission where he was accused of murder. She also noted that he was less talkative than previously during staff meetings. They did not engage in idle chit chat when he plotted various navigation routes in Astrometrics as she anticipated he would feel compelled to do so. When she took a few more moments to search her memory she realized that he had not suggested any parties or social activities since he started working with Tuvok on the holo programs 13 months 1 week and 4 days ago. Filing that observation away, she went back to the task at hand.

After giving it considerable thought, Seven decided that she would suggest something that would seem natural for them to both participate in. Aside from something dealing with engineering there wasn't much else. Then Seven considered an exercise program.

"She is Klingon. I know that she has a Bat'leth as she attacked me with it my first month on Voyager. Perhaps she would like to spar?"

Seven hoped that B'Elanna wouldn't see this as a challenge but merely an attempt to participate in an activity in which they were both familiar with. Seven was all but certain that no one else on board was proficient enough for the Lt. Seven timed her approach as perfectly as she could. She did not want to ask B'Elanna in the presence of others in case there was a negative reaction. She also did not want to say anything while B'Elanna was in a foul mood or distracted. Captain Janeway once explained the concept of having the home court advantage and Seven thought that B'Elanna would be more agreeable to the suggestion if she went to her in Engineering. Knowing her schedule, Seven set off about 30 minutes after Alpha shift ended when she was sure that B'Elanna would still be in her office working. That would insure relative privacy. [Unless she starts screaming.]

"Lt. Torres, may I speak with you for a moment?"

Hoping nothing's broken or in need of an overhaul right then,

"Yeah, Seven. Come on in. What's up?"

Seven hadn't expected to get this far and had to come up with something quickly.

"I require a certain amount of regular exercise during the week. Captain Janeway and I used to play Velocity weekly but we have not in some time. I was wondering if you would like to participate in a recreational activity."

B'Elanna just stared. It was a surprise. She wasn't mad but she was surprised. She knew that at some point she was going to have to speak with Seven but she was not sure if the overture of a personal conversation would be welcome. Now that Seven has asked her to work out, she thinks it might be possible.

"I don't might working out but I'm no good at Velocity. I really don't know how to play."

"Actually, I thought perhaps we could work through one of the Klingon Bat'leth training programs. I have knowledge from the Borg and I started using those programs after I stopped playing Velocity."

Then she stopped talking and looked up at B'Elanna hoping that she hadn't said something offensive.

For her part, B'Elanna stared again. She wasn't sure why Seven made the suggestion but she was willing to take her at face value. She hadn't sparred in three years. The exercises she did in her quarters helped her to keep the movements but once the captain put the restrictions on her holo deck usage she did not return. She isn't sure how she feels about this but thinks it's a good idea.

"That's fine Seven. Its been a long time since I used any of those programs. I am severely out of practice."

That was news to Seven but she did not pry. She was implementing 'don't rock the boat' protocol.

"We can start at any level you desire. When are you available?"

Now that she had the offer put to her, B'Elanna was kind of excited about the prospect of sparing and couldn't conceal her enthusiasm.

"Well...how about this evening? Did you have plans?"

Much more than Seven hoped for. She never though Lt. Torres would agree.

"No. My evening is free. It is 16:30 now. How much time do you require to prepare?"

"Well, first you gotta check to see if one of the holo decks is available. I can finish this stuff any time. So I can leave whenever. It'll take me less than ½ to get ready. I've got my own armor and Bat'leth."

At that Seven raised an eyebrow graciously while the corners of her mouth twitched up ever so slightly,

"Yes, I remember."

B'Elanna laughed when she thought back on the day Seven had to be referring to then got serious.

"Those days are over Seven. I never apologized to you for that and I am sorry."

[An apology! She apologized to me?]

"You were sufficiently provoked. You reaction was logical."

Then Seven checked the availability and found that there was a 2 hour block of time available in exactly ½ so she reserved it and they both went off to get ready.

Seven replicated her own battle armor and Bat'leth two years ago for several reasons. Most importantly, she calculated that it was more efficient and less time consuming. She also contemplated the likelihood of Lt. Torres returning to finish the job one day and thought it prudent to be prepared to defend herself should that occur.

At exactly 16:56, Seven of Nine unwittingly solved the mystery of B'Elanna Torres when they met in the hallway several yards from the holo deck. It was a sight to behold and caused every single head that passed B'Elanna Torres to turn and do a triple take. Dressed in full Klingon battle armor, carrying her Bat'leth with her long wavy mane of jet black hair flowing, B'Elanna Torres looked every bit a true Daughter of the Empire. And that's when all the pieces fell into place for Seven of Nine. She realized that for the last 11 months or so B'Elanna was slipping away to her quarters everyday to preform the Plea for the Dead. Seven never would have imagined that B'Elanna was conducting the mid day offering of prayers for her ancestors because the dead cannot rest if the living do not honor their memory.

Now Seven understood that the changes in B'Elanna's attitude and behavior toward her were a matter of personal honor. Seven also realized that B'Elanna's acceptance of her offer to share a recreational activity and her apology earlier were also connected to her honor and appreciated the seriousness of the situation. As a result, Seven was determined not to do anything to ruin it. She did feel more secure in her conduct toward B'Elanna over the last few months. She was never certain before if the Lt. was lulling her into a false sense of security and would one day switch back to their old way of interacting. Now she understood that was not the case so she was firm in her resolve to return the honor B'Elanna was bestowing on her.

Seven made no comment other than an approving nod which B'Elanna returned. The blonde hair was a dead give way along with many other characteristics but B'Elanna was impressed that she looked the part—or as close to it as she could. This was also the first time B'Elanna had ever seen Seven with her hair down. In the beginning she wondered if it was always pinned up like that because she regenerated that way. But she wisely kept her mouth shut on that.

A few crewmen were concerned that Voyager's showdown at the OK Corral was finally here. News spread of Seven and B'Elanna with Bat'leths and not many people knew what to make of that. Yes, the past year had been the quietest since they were both on board but that was when they weren't armed! Tuvok was informed after several people contacted security with anonymous reports of Bat'leth sightings. He was not concerned and informed security to stand down and not get involved.

"It appears they have found common ground. Apparently, Seven of Nine was the one thing to get B'Elanna back onto the holo deck."

He prepared himself for questions from the captain about what this might mean but hoped she would remain silent on the issue.

Two hours later they both left the holo deck in good spirits. Both were starving and both were unaware of the stir they caused as they made their way straight to the mess hall for dinner.

"I am not in the mood for whatever creation Neelix has prepared for the evening."

"Yeah, its been a good evening so far, I don't want to ruin it either. We can always replicate something."

"True. Now that I am no longer required to consume the Doctor's liquid nutritional supplement, I have observed that Neelix takes personal offense to anyone choosing to replicate a meal instead of selecting one of his—preparations."

"Just ignore him. I do."

"A viable solution."

Just as they finished their conversation, they walked into the mess hall still unaware of the heads turning in their direction or the open mouth stares from every single person—with the exception of Tuvok. That didn't stop Tom Paris from staring and then turning to his look at his dinner companion.

"Does nothing cause you the slightest bit of surprise?"

It was a genuine and legitimate question considering the circumstances. Surprise is technically not an emotion as much as it is a state of awareness so he let that go. Over the past year he'd gotten to understand Tom Paris much better and he also understood human reaction to Vulcan non reaction better than he ever had. One thing he learned from Paris was that humans define certain words differently than Vulcans, thereby leading to confusion as to what is an emotion and what is not.

"Generally, yes. However, I had warning of this. Apparently the sight of Seven of Nine and B'Elanna Torres carrying Bat'leths is cause for great alarm."

"Funny. That's not what I meant. Look at B'Elanna. She's worn her hair pinned up for awhile so I never noticed before."

Tuvok wasn't offended. He discovered several months ago that Tom realized Vulcans do have a sense of humor that is merely masked as dry wit. Very subtle and very intentional.

"Noticed what?"

"How Klingon she looks."

"Does that disturb you in some way?"

"Absolutely not. She looks fantastic. Seven doesn't look ½ bad herself. Those are definitely two women not to mess with."

"I agree they do appear to be formidable opponents."

"You can say that again."

Tuvok's suspicions seemed to be confirmed with nothing more than B'Elanna's appearance. Just as Seven's mystery was solved. He surmised that she was officially out of the closet, however unintentional her action today might have been. He approved.

Neelix wasn't sure what any of this meant but kept close watch on both of them just in case they were about to commit some ritual fight to the death that must be engaged in or near a kitchen. Seven reserved a table in a way that caused Tuvok to raise his eyebrow, everyone else to jump in shock, and B'Elanna to laugh out loud. She pierced the table top by slamming her Bat'leth right in the center. Everyone got the point as the two ladies headed to the replicator. Once there she turned to Seven,

"Uh, I only replicate Klingon food. Will that offend you?"

Seven didn't miss a beat responding.

"Not at all. Perhaps a Klingon meal is in order for both of us. I have tried the Gagh. As I have never had the actual dish I am unsure how it is supposed to taste but I add a small amount of sodium to mine."

"Yeah, this isn't the best recipe. I re-calibrated the one in my quarters to exact specks. Other than that its pretty good. I say we go for it. How about a little non alcoholic Blood Wine for you?"

"Perfect."

Yeah, they turned heads and their meals could have turned stomach if others looked too closely at what they were eating. Once they saw the metal plates and mugs, everybody knew not to sneak a peek.

Chakotay wasn't sure what was going on when he and the captain entered the mess hall 15 minutes later to see the strange make up at two tables. As if Seven and B'Elanna's general appearance and the fact that they were together obviously sharing a Klingon meal wasn't enough to send him into hyper space. But then he glanced over and saw Tuvok and Tom Paris, of all people, looking as if they were having a pleasant dinner by choice and not by circumstance. [Great, my two least favorite people!]

Tuvok said nothing but he saw the captain and Chakotay enter out of the corner of his eye. Within moments he also saw Tom's back stiffen though he was facing in the opposite direction of the door and did not see them enter. Didn't matter. Chakotay sent off waves of dislike for Tom Paris. To his credit, Tuvok had to admit that Tom's reaction was imperceptible to everyone but him because he knew what was happening. Tom recovered almost immediately and continued as if nothing unpleasant occurred.

Captain Janeway noticed the odd pairings and made the rounds. Chakotay opted to skip their table and move straight over to speak to B'Elanna and Seven. Chakotay said nothing about the way they were dressed, the obvious Klingon meal before them or the fact that there was a Bat'leth firmly imbedded in the table. All things considered, it was a rather ordinary evening on Voyager.

Seven stopped by B'Elanna's quarters because they were reviewing the spectral designs for a new shuttle. Tom's idea. Something that would have more fire power, faster maneuvering, and stronger shielding than the standard Starfleet shuttles they kept losing. It was really the first step in his over-all plan which he hadn't yet discussed with the captain. Tom's a better empath than Tuvok suspected because he picks up Tuvok's fleeting emotions from time to time. It was just as he thought, Janeway didn't believe he was innocent either. He was getting over that just like he got over the need to wear the mask or play the game months ago. People noticed his routine and behavior had definitely changed. He didn't care.

Now that Seven was hanging out with B'Elanna, she was hanging out with him and Harry as well. Harry was determined to master Kaltoh, a 3D Vulcan game of logic. Seven was silent in her skepticism after one look from B'Elanna. Tuvok was supportive in his own way.

"What you lack in skill you exceed in determination, Mr. Kim."

Then Tuvok proceeded to wipe the proverbial floor with Harry once again. Tom laughed. He was a heck of a lot better. Then again, he and Tuvok had been playing for months. He's not sure but he thinks that the fact he was a lower level chess master helped. Tuvok agreed. They play chess on occasion and Tom wins just as much as he loses.

Gracious, in a Vulcan sort of way, Tuvok offered a suggestion that might help Harry.

"The purpose of Kaltoh is to find the seeds of order in the mists of overwhelming chaos. I suggest you begin with Pleenok. It is a tool to designed assist in the training of primary Vulcan logic."

Harry considered that for a few minutes and then agreed.

"Ok, I'll study anything that will help build a foundation but that doesn't mean I'm not going to stop learning how to play this game."

"I will not attempt to discourage your valiant efforts."

Tom and Seven made eye contact before turning their gaze on Tuvok. Both were silently wondering how Tuvok was going to spin it once Harry found out Pleenok was a children's game. All they got in response was a blank stare. Tuvok was pretty sure he'd be hearing from Harry by the end of the night.

The first time Seven entered B'Elanna's quarters she was shocked. She'd only visited the captain and Tuvok's quarters but thought Starfleet was extreme in their distinction between rank.

"Lt. Torres?"

"B'Elanna. I told you to call me B'Elanna."

"B'Elanna. Does Starfleet normally place such a great distinction between accommodations for its officers or is this the result of you having once been a member of the Maquis and not an original Voyager crew member?"

Seven just could not see how Captain Janeway could allow her to live like this. Nothing but two pillows on the floor in the living room. She strode into the bedroom. A simple pallet and pillow roll. Seven noted the prayer alter and the betleH bey' (Bat'telh display) as well but knew those were added by B'Elanna. Even Seven, who lived in the cargo bay, had more items than this. Where was the famous Federation's sense of equality?

"Huh? Oh, no this is my version of redecorating. I doubt anyone else's quarters look like this."

"Explain."

"For personal reasons, I got rid of all my furniture awhile ago. I decided that I like it this way, more space. So I didn't change it back."

Seven would not question her on the subject further once B'Elanna mentioned personal reasons. She knew it would be an insult to do so.

"It is efficient." And that's all she was prepared to say on the matter.

It took some time but they were able to work through all of Tom's calculations and iron out a few kinks in the design. B'Elanna and Seven were both impressed with his work. Neither of them realized that he had it in him. Of course, Seven worked with Tom enough over the past year that she sensed he was hiding some of his abilities though she could not understand why. One evening, Seven decided to discuss it with B'Elanna because she did not think that she should ask Tuvok considering their apparent close friendship and she did not feel comfortable questioning the captain about a member of her crew.

"We all hide Seven. Some times its easier that way. Some times we think its easier that way. I don't know what Tom's life was like growing up but I assume the pressure of being Admiral Paris' son was intense. Maybe he thought it was better to act average so that he wouldn't be pushed so hard by his father. From what I've heard, he wasn't a very nice man and didn't treat Tom well. That's just gossip and nothing you should ask Tom about. Family issues are delicate and sensitive matters among humans."

Seven thought for a few moments then decided to go there.

"Among Klingons I imagine as well."

B'Elanna's head shot up at that. But then she took a deep breath and exhaled.

"Yes. I had the privilege to be neither to most people. Klingons thought I was too human. Humans thought I was too Klingon. My parents didn't help the situation much."

"I apologize if I have treaded on a—painful subject. I am not always aware when my desire for understanding crosses into offense."

"You didn't offend me. You simply made me think about the truth. There was a time when I didn't know where I belonged. When I was afraid to be me because I feared rejection. I've been rejected most of my life."

"But that has changed?"

"Yes. Most definitely yes. I am Klingon. I am not ashamed of it. My human—sperm donor, because I can't call the guy who walked out on me 20 years ago and only bothered to contact me once a father, is inconsequential and irrelevant. Until I was 5, I've lived on a human colony where my mother and I were the only Klingons. It was difficult and children were cruel. I tried to act like them but was never accepted. After my parents split up, we moved to Qo'noS but for the last 8 years I've lived almost exclusively among humans so it was second nature to down play my Klingon heritage for their benefit. To make them feel more comfortable with me. Yeah, that's illogical considering one look at me and its obvious I'm Klingon. But, I hoped that if I acted human enough, tried to fit in enough, people would accept me or at least not judge me."

"You were unsuccessful?"

"Duh. No. Not anymore than anyone around here forgets you are Borg."

"True. I have learned not to dwell on it. Captain Janeway wishes for me to explore my humanity. I have done so but I am not interested in that any longer."

That was news to B'Elanna.

"Ok, so what are you interested in?"

"Exploring my individuality. I have no desire to become less Borg. That is not possible. Especially considering that I regenerate nightly in a Borg alcove and am treated by both the ship's doctor and the chief engineer. No one else on this ship can say that."

B'Elanna laughs.

"Yeah, that definitely makes you individual. Unique and one of a kind."

"The same things can be said about you."

"True. I'm not hiding anymore. And I'm not ashamed of who I am. Its taken a long time for me to get to this point but I am comfortable with myself and I am happy for the first time in my life."

Her expression is thoughtful and a bit unsure. Seven is learning to read B'Elanna as well as Harry Kim and Tom Paris. Harry is the easiest to read. He rarely attempts to conceal anything. She prompts,

"B'Elanna?"

"There is something I have been meaning to say to you for some time. I wasn't sure how to broach the subject and now that we've become friends, I don't want to mess that up."

Seven isn't sure where this is going. She was pleased with their friendship and enjoyed spending social time with Tuvok, Harry and Tom as a result of it. It was unsettling to think something B'Elanna might say would change that. Steeling herself, she opted to hear the truth because that was logical.

"You were implementing 'don't rock the boat' protocol with me?"

B'Elanna thought about that and laughed softly.

"Yeah, I guess you could say that."

"Very well. What is it that you wish to say?"

She knew she had to say this. Correcting her behavior was only part of what was required.

"When you first came on board, I did not want you here. You were still apart of the collective and a threat to the ship and crew. My hostility toward you was open and justified. But, after you were severed from the collective and became an individual, I was still hostile and went out of my way to be cruel. The simple truth is that I considered you a personal threat."

This was not what Seven expected to hear though she was unsure what she expected B'Elanna to say.

"Explain."

"I finally found a place where I belonged and felt secure. I was Chief Engineer of a Federation star ship. Granted, I got the job by virtue of being stuck in the Delta quadrant, but it was MY job. Then you showed up with your superior Borg efficiency and knowledge and I was scared that Captain Janeway might consider you the better person for the job and remove me.

On a more personal note, the captain started spending more time with you. The time she used to spend with me. I know she was trying to help me fit in and get to know me better and that as time went on I didn't need the constant attention, but I still felt like I was being replaced. I felt like she was rejecting me like everyone else in my life had. So, instead of saying something to the captain or taking the time to consider that you needed time with her more than me, I took my anger out on you instead. There was no basis for me resenting you other than jealousy and that is dishonorable. I am sorry and I hope that you will forgive me."

"B'Elanna, I never considered the cause of your dislike for me. I did little to encourage any positive interactions between us. Over the past few months, I evaluated my own behavior after I arrived and it did not, as the Doctor says, earn me any points. A strange euphemism but accurate. I have also come to terms with the fact that I harbored a significant amount of jealousy toward your natural ability as an engineer when mine is the result of Borg enhancement. In truth, I admit that there were many times I purposefully and illogically antagonized you. I am unsure why I did so. On some level I believe it was based on your willingness to treat me the same as you would anyone else who behaved as I did.

With the exception of Harry Kim and Tuvok, the crew feared or hated me. Captain Janeway was the only one who thought I had the potential to reclaim my humanity but on many levels she saw me as a child. You did not make allowances for my behavior or disregard for certain rules. You were not afraid to speak your mind or tell me exactly what you thought. Finally, you were the only person who expected me to live up to the same standards as everyone else. That was intriguing. No one else engaged me in conversation. Even though you were insulting or threatening to inflict great bodily harm, it was still a conversation.

As for my time with Captain Janeway, I did not know that she mentored you prior to my arrival. It is logical but I did not consider it. Neither of us acted honorably toward each other. I owe you an apology as well and am sorry."

B'Elanna was shocked. She truly had no idea that Seven, with all her Borg efficiency, was capable of being jealous of her ability.

"So basically, both of us acted like dishonorable idiots for no reason. Apology accepted."

Relieved that she had restored some of her honor; B'Elanna sat back quietly absorbing the full extent of her own insecurities in the past. After several minutes Seven was compelled to break the silence because she did not understand its cause.

"B'Elanna, you have not spoken for 7.2 minutes. Is there a problem?"

"No. I've been thinking about something for a long time and I'm not sure how it will go over with others."

"Is it something of a personal nature?"

"More of a personal choice but yeah, it only effects me."

"Then the opinions of others are irrelevant."

She can't help but smile, "You're right. I just didn't want to have to get into it with the captain. Chakotay I don't think would say anything and would probably understand. Even if he didn't understand, he knows me well enough to keep quiet."

Seven isn't sure she should ask so she adopts what she hopes is a supportive expression and nods like she's in on some big secret. B'Elanna laughs.

"We're gonna have to work on your expressions or you're gonna have to stick to the eyebrow thing. You want to know?"

"Only if it is something you wish to share."

"I don't care, it isn't a secret. Besides, I just made up my mind that I'm going to do it. I drafted it about 8 months ago but never submitted it."

She reaches over to a stack of padds on the floor then hands one to Seven. All she got was the classic raised eyebrow for a reaction but B'Elanna's starting to be able to tell them apart.

"This is a formal notice of name change."

"You no longer wish to be B'Elanna Torres?"

"Honestly Seven, I never was B'Elanna Torres. Maybe for about 6 months or so. Don't ask its an idiom. The point is, I'm not B'Elanna Torres. I am B'Elanna, daughter of Miral. Granddaughter of L'Naan."

"I do not believe Klingons traditionally include the grandparent in their address." Eyes shining with laughter.

B'Elanna cracked up.

"No, I just added that part for fun. You aren't the only one around here who gets to be an individual."

"I approve. The captain may not."

"Yeah, good thing its something that's submitted to the First Officer. Anyway, its none of her business but I know shell probably be dying to ask questions. You defacing one of the tables in the mess hall with your Bat'leth probably isn't going to help my situation."

"She will question your motives perhaps, not your right to do so. She still does not understand why I do not wish to adopt the name Annika Hanson. It is not my name. I am Seven of Nine and I am not ashamed of that."

"Ok, why does she care what you call yourself? You've been using the name for the last, what 19 years, that's a lot different from my situation."

"B'Elanna, we are the same age an yet, in Captain Janeway's eyes, I am less than 4 years old because that is all the time I have lived severed from the collective since I was assimilated at the age of 6. I may not have the experience with individuality that the rest of the crew has but I believe that there are many on board with less emotional maturity than I.

I also believe she interprets it as a sign that I am unwilling to embrace my humanity. Perhaps she feels I am still clinging to the Borg because I am uncomfortable or unsure about human practices. There are many human practices that are foreign to me. I make mistakes constantly. Because I do not wish to dismiss or forget my Borg designation does not mean that I have any desire to return to the collective, I do not. I believe that is one of Captain Janeway's fears."

"Whoa, that's heavy stuff. I'm not sure I could even tackle that last part. Overall, I think you're doing ok in your Borg-human melding. Though I think you could probably make a better Klingon than human. But that's just my opinion."

"True. Klingons are much easier to understand. The language and customs are clear. The code of honor is clear and quite efficient. I understand all of the nuances of the culture and the practices. Humans are less—defined."

"Yeah, and I wondered why I could never figure out how to fit in with humans. I didn't understand them. You can't do anything about the captain's fears other than refrain from running through the ship hollering that you want to be a Borg drone again."

"You are not being helpful."

Once she pulled herself together and stopped laughing B'Elanna got serious.

"Sorry. Keep making your mistakes. There's really nothing you can do about that. Besides, you learn from each one of them. Its not your job to convince the captain. The only thing you have to do is be you."

"Sound advice. Perhaps you should apply that to your own situation."

"Nobody likes a smart ass."