"I understand that you're trying to help and I appreciate it. But, the truth is that I am not entitled to wear the uniform and this is just another one of those things you'll have to list under miscellaneous Klingon honor if you don't understand."
"No, I understand. I do not like it. I have been given no order contravening your field commission so as far as I'm concerned it still stands."
"Yeah, but we already know they did it. Forwarding the order is just a formality. Probably didn't want to tip us off. I'm alright, captain."
"Are you?"
"No, but I'm gonna be."
She studied the young woman in front of her carefully just to make sure. There was no way of talking B'Elanna out of this so she gave up trying.
"I thought a warrior never surrendered. How come you were willing to be arrested?"
B'Elanna exhaled slowly on that one. It was complicated and she had several different rules to contend with.
"True but there are some exceptions to the rule. The general rule is that I either have to kill all of you or I have to kill myself to prevent dishonor."
Janeway turned white and just stared open mouthed.
"Don't worry captain. I'm not going to try to kill any of you."
"But...what about yourself?"
"That's the tricky part. I can't do that yet because there another matter of honor I have to complete first. Besides, there's a general exception to the P.O.W. thing."
"Which is?"
"A warrior can remain alive in captivity if they feel there is an opportunity to avenge themselves against their enemy later. Basically live, grow stronger and fight another day."
Relieved that B'Elanna wouldn't require ritual suicide watch, she's still not sure about that last part.
"I know what you're thinking captain. No one on this ship is my enemy. Let's just leave it at that."
Satisfied and aware there's nothing she can do about it, the captain let's it go.
"You realize that the next time you go to the brig it will be for the same reasons you've gone in the past. Because of something you actually did. Not because of some ridiculous order."
"Captain...."
"Nope. That's not up for discussion. My brig is off limits to you, period. Tuvok can file a report with whomever, I don't care. I might not be able to make you wear the uniform if you don't want to, but there is no way you are getting out of being Chief Engineer. I expect you to work your shifts and continue on just as you always have. No discussion on the matter."
B'Elanna couldn't help but smile.
"Thank you, captain."
"Don't thank me. I'm doing it for purely selfish and logical reasons. You are the most qualified for the job." Then she laughed.
"Yeah, I'm gonna have to go see Seven later. She really worked herself up. I always knew she had it in her, just a surprise to see it come out because of me."
"That shouldn't surprise you. I don't know what caused the change in your relationship and I'm not going to pry but it was a good thing. The two of you getting along has really helped my blood pressure."
Tom walked into the Observation Lounge and saw Tuvok staring out one of the large viewers. If it was possible for a Vulcan to look pensive, that one was. Tom didn't say anything as he walked over and took a seat near by. Instead of striking up conversation, he busied himself going over the progress report he was drafting on the Flyer to send the captain. They were almost finished and the production was a head of schedule. All things considered, he was pleased. When they got to the testing phase, if all checked out, then he'd relax.
After another 10 minutes Tuvok turned around and looked at him. Humans normally did not stay quiet long. While they claimed to love peace and quiet, they were always moving around. Tuvok also noticed that there was some biological imperative within humans to break silence. Something in them made them feel uncomfortable if no one spoke for long periods of time. Tuvok did not understand this when he first encountered humans. It was...annoying if he had to choose an emotional word. He wouldn't admit that out loud, though. It took some time, many decades in fact, before Tuvok understood the cause of it. Humans were not telepathic. They had no way to discern, other than with body language or conversation, if there was danger, displeasure, or fear on the part of the other person. Remaining silent, impassive and unmoving caused humans a great deal of discomfort because they could not tell if the situation was negative or not.
Tom Paris appeared to be like every other human he'd met in the beginning. Not until after he stopped projecting his false image did Tuvok notice the change. He also understood the reason. Tom was empathic. He didn't need words to discern the motivations of others. So, he was unaffected by large gaps of silence. That helped their friendship. He was certain that Tom was aware of his concerns and some of his actions over the past two days. He appreciated that Tom remained silent on the subject and had not sought him out until now. Vulcans were not versed or comfortable with small talk. On some level, he knew he did not have to attempt it with Tom but he still tried his hand at getting the conversation started.
"Tom."
And that's as small as Vulcan small talk gets.
"Hey, what's up?"
"I was reflecting on some of the recent events."
Tom knew Tuvok did not relish his role in what was going down with B'Elanna. He wanted to talk to her as well but knew she was probably still with the captain. For some reason Tom felt the need to confess or apologize.
"I'm sorry you were put in that position. I know that stuff came straight from my dad. He's a real piece of work."
It was hard to disguise the disgust and contempt in his voice though he did a pretty good job trying. Tuvok would not comment on that last part. He knew Eugene Paris was a source of deep pain for Tom and wouldn't be the cause of him dwelling on it.
"You are not responsible for the decisions made or given by Starfleet Command."
"Still..."
Tuvok held up his hand to forestall the argument.
"It is not your fault. It is a matter of chain of command and you are not within it. All things considered, it was not as...devastating as it could have been."
"Yeah, B'Elanna shocked the hell out of me. Though I'm learning that she has some really strange abilities and her mind doesn't work like other people's."
That was interesting.
"How so?"
"Well, when I made my little confession a few months ago, she reached over and took my hand but I couldn't feel anything. Not one single thing from her. I asked her about it later and she really couldn't explain. Except something about when she is solving a problem her brain sort of shuts everything else off or down. She's completely emotionless. Detached from all feelings."
That was news to Tuvok and he wasn't sure what that meant but it did fit with the display he witnessed earlier.
"Intriguing. It was fascinating to witness her work through the situation in such a logical manner. She appears to have the capability for extremely ordered higher reasoning when she chooses."
"Don't let her hear you say that. It might offend her Klingon sensibilities."
"Yes, I can see the...wisdom of that."
Tom took a minute to study his friend. He wasn't sure how his next comment would go over. He had no proof but considered that there wasn't much of a need for psycho therapy on Vulcan.
"Wanna talk about it?"
"My orders are classified."
"True, but your impressions of their ramifications on the crew aren't."
That's the best way Tom could get around using the word feelings. No sense insulting the man. Tuvok appeared to consider the matter for a few seconds and then sat down across from him.
"Voyager's situation is unique. We have melded two crews and overcome differences of philosophy and affiliation that our counterparts in the Alpha quadrant have not considered. They have also not had the opportunity to work and live with Seven throughout her growth and development."
Yeah, Tom thought it was going to be bad. He didn't see the look on his father's face because he made sure not to look at him but the silence was deafening. Captain Janeway calling her Annika told him all he needed to know. Tom took a few seconds to phrase his words carefully.
"B'Elanna was right? There's a lot of stuff going on back home that we don't know about. Things have changed that drastically?"
"Yes."
"You know the captain isn't going to let you arrest B'Elanna?"
"Yes."
"Is Starfleet under that impression?"
"No."
"Good."
Then he considered that Tuvok seemed much more relaxed after Seven's explosion and the captain's way of ending the meeting. He sat back to stare at him hard for a few minutes.
"Would Starfleet now be in a position to consider the way the crews have been melded or have an opportunity to witness Seven's growth since she was freed from the Borg?"
If he could have smirked, Tuvok would have. Instead he merely raised that eyebrow in classic form. Tom, like Harry and B'Elanna no longer found it annoying. Especially since they have learned to read the different meanings behind it.
"Perhaps."
"Uh huh. And if someone had the correct security clearance, would a check of the ship's computer reveal any recent transmissions to—say Starfleet Security? Like a recording of a certain meeting that took place several hours ago?"
Just a hint of hesitation before the answer gave Tom all he needed.
"Perhaps."
"Uh huh. That isn't going to be a regular thing is it?"
"I believe Starfleet has all the information it can handle."
That was as good of an answer as he was going to get. Didn't matter, he knew. When Tom took a few minutes to consider the entire meeting he recognized the potential for serious disaster and fall out if everyone hadn't been so quiet and reserved. Normally, that wouldn't have been the case but each of them were shell shocked. Still reeling from yesterday's events. He unconsciously tilted his head to the left while looking at Tuvok. Tuvok recognized that as the sign that Tom required more detailed information on the subject but wasn't going to ask. They couldn't have that conversation in a public lounge.
"It is almost time for the evening meal. Perhaps a game of Kalto?"
"Sure. Just don't tell Harry you let me play some times or I'm gonna hear about it later."
"My silence is assured. I do not believe it would cause a great deal of dissension as he has found other activities to occupy his time. He has become quite accomplished at the Vulcan Lute."
"I heard. B'Elanna calls it a banjo."
Tom didn't say anything about Tuvok's reaction but he just had one more date to mark on his calender.
Seven reclined on Harry's couch while he replicated dinner. She was much calmer after their visit to the mess hall earlier but he still didn't want to give her too much time alone. Harry knew that Seven wasn't really alright when they left because she didn't seem the least bit interested in heading to Astrometrics. Seven not wanting to work? That was a sign that all wasn't so well. Instead, they spent the remainder of the day together. Harry being Harry didn't push or try to bring up some of the things he knew were weighing on her. Instead, he let Seven choose what they'd talk about and what they did. An afternoon of Flotter on the holo deck with Naomi Wildman wasn't what he expected to do but he had to admit it was kind of fun acting like a kid again. On occasion, a member of the crew is compelled to point out that he and Naomi are the youngest people on the ship. He let's that slide some times. Today it was the perfect excuse if he got caught. Sam Wildman didn't say anything when she strolled onto the holo deck and saw what they were doing. Thankfully, she just covered her laughter with a cough and joined in.
Now, Seven seemed relaxed and they were just hanging out for the evening. She asked him to play something on the clarinet and he was happy to oblige. Any amount of practice time was good as far as he was concerned. Truth be told, while he was making sure that Seven was alright, Harry was still trying to come to terms with everything he'd witnessed over the past two days. When he thought about the emotional roller coaster ride everyone was on, he wondered how they got any work done. Tuvok was Tuvok during the meeting but Harry could tell he didn't like his orders or the way Starfleet was acting one bit. That meant there was more stuff to come. He never completely understood what drove Starfleet officers to the Maquis. Chakotay, he could understand. The Cardassians devastated his home and killed all of his people. Something like that had to cut deep and make one snap. In theory, he understood that everyone had their own reasons. Tom and B'Elanna's seem clear. But, not until this week did he really understand what could motivate a Starfleet officer to throw up their hands and yell, enough.
Going after B'Elanna was a cheap shot. He knew it and it reeked hypocrite. Harry might not have had the words to express himself as Seven did or been able to recover from the shock so quickly to speak them but he knew every word she said was true. He didn't know what was happening in the Alpha quadrant any more than the rest of them [except Tuvok, I'm sure Admiral Paris gave him an ear full.] but he couldn't wrap his mind around the Federation allying itself with the Cardassians. How were the Bajorans handling that??? He was certain of one thing, all hell was breaking loose back home. Many times over the past day, Harry had to admit that life in the Delta quadrant wasn't so bad. Compared to a place where Cardassians and the Federation were preparing the fight Klingons, yeah, the Delta quadrant was looking mighty good to him. Sure, he didn't have all the facts but they'd only been gone four years. Not that much could have changed!
"Thank you for your assistance today. I had not realized my ability to—work myself up. That is a strange expression but it is the appropriate one. Is it not?"
Harry chuckled before responding. Classic Seven.
"Yeah, you got it right. Little feisty there. But, everything you said was true and we all needed to hear it."
He wasn't sure if she was ready to talk about herself yet or if she could only deal with B'Elanna's situation. Seven picked up on that.
"I am well aware, by Starfleet's recent actions, that I am considered a threat to the Federation. Admiral Paris was not exactly discreet during his—inspection of the bridge."
"No, I think we all knew it was going to be trouble. The captain wasn't so discreet herself."
That made Seven smile.
"Yes. She is very good at misdirecting while remaining truthful. She gave me sufficient warning to prepare for their response."
"You have to realize that Captain Janeway isn't going to allow Tuvok to do anything to you. Heck, Tuvok isn't going to do anything to you. He's Vulcan so he'll find a way to get around a direct order."
"That is only as far as Voyager is concerned. The reality of my situation on arrival in the Alpha quadrant is another matter and entirely out of his hands."
"Look, I'm the poster boy for eagerness in wanting to return home. I know that. But even I understand that we could be at this for years. Hell, our grand kids might make part of the trip."
"It will be a tight fit should everyone wish to procreate."
They both laughed at that.
"True, Voyager wasn't intended to be a generational ship but it wasn't intended for exploring the Delta quadrant either. You're always telling us to seek and embrace our individuality and uniqueness. I think this more than counts."
"True. What is your opinion on the supposed changes in the Alpha quadrant?"
"If you're talking about war or this alliance with Cardassia, I'm glad I'm in the Delta quadrant."
She just stared at him.
"Yeah, I said that. Look, I miss my family just as much as I always have but I don't like the rest of this stuff. And, its partly my fault."
"How so?"
"They couldn't have made contact with us if I hadn't been so determined to make the communications upgrades and modifications no matter how great this Pathfinder station is."
"You had no control over the Federation's alliance. Those things were happening with or without us. Starfleet's reaction to me was inevitable. Their reaction to B'Elanna is deplorable but it is better this way."
"Huh?"
"Had we simply arrived in Federation space two days ago without warning of the threat to many of us the results would be much more severe. Now we have time to prepare. And, there are some things we cannot change. Such as the minds and hearts of those making the decisions in Starfleet. But, as you said, our return might not be for years to come."
"Never thought I'd consider that a good thing."
Knowing she couldn't put it off much longer, the next day Captain Janeway made an announcement.
"All hands, this is the captain. Stand down. There is no emergency. This is a general announcement to alert you all of some very encouraging news. Starfleet made real time contact with us. The Romulans forwarded our message and Starfleet has been working diligently to create a communications system for contact. It is called the Pathfinder station. Its sole purpose was to initiate and maintain contact with Voyager throughout our journey and to be of assistance in helping us get home. Thanks to the modifications and upgrades made by Harry Kim, they were finally able to reach us.
I forwarded them an updated copy of the crew manifest and Starfleet is in the process of contacting our families to let them know of our location and condition. This is a good thing and should ease their minds considerably. Pathfinder will be our point of contact throughout the trip. They are working on establishing a regular mail delivery system. It will take time to collect all the letters and then send them through this distance at sub space. They have not given me the particulars but I would imagine every couple of months. Until they made contact with us, they only had hope and the word of the Romulans so they did not know for certain if they would find us. Now that they have and know our current heading, they can get to work on phase two. Let's all be patient while they work. In the meantime, start drafting those letters home. Janeway out."
Later that week, Admiral Francis O'Reilly, Starfleet Judge Advocate General had to watch the recording several times before his legal mind could process what his other senses were picking up. He was surprised when word started spreading that Voyager wasn't destroyed in the Badlands almost 5 years ago just like everyone else. It didn't take long to hear that real time contact was finally established. The first report was shocking and disturbing. Like everyone else at Starfleet Command and Security, he had grave misgivings on Janeway's competency. Seeing a Borg waltz onto the bridge of a Federation star ship and take up a station was too much for him to accept. He lost his son at the Battle of Wolf 357. He wasn't sure what to think but he was prepared for the petitions that would fall on his desk for a ruling on her status upon arrival in Federation space. The legal implications would have to take a back seat to findings from Starfleet Medical and Security over her potential threat to the Federation and its allies. He had no problem with that. Their only precedent was Jean Luc Picard but this situation varied greatly.
The added headache was the Klingon member of the crew. Obviously, she had to have been one of the Maquis. That was another headache but he tabled it because it really was cut and dried. Paris' report seemed clear and he knew what he saw with his own eyes. Who knew what kind of threat she could be to Voyager upon learning that the Federation was preparing for war with the Empire. Add to that her Maquis affiliation and the fact that the Empire has never had an amicable relationship with the Cardassian Union, everyone felt it was a powder keg waiting to explode in typical Klingon fashion.
This recording shocked him. O'Reilly sat back in his chair in utter amazement. He never thought he'd live to see the day when a Klingon acted like a Vulcan and a Borg was lecturing Starfleet on Federation values and individual liberty. O'Reilly was no expert but when he put aside his personal feelings on the Borg in general he had to admit, the distressed young woman in that recording was no Borg drone. At least not like one he'd ever read about. That was going to be an even greater headache. But, the immediate problem was the situation with B'Elanna. Starfleet regulations on awarding field commissions was clear. Voyager's strange circumstances not withstanding, Starfleet Command had the authority to revoke them at any time. Add to that the truth that she was not a Federation citizen and the laws regarding prisoners of war, the order was sound.
Then he got her file. O'Rielly was an attorney, not an engineer, but what he saw of her transcripts and test scores didn't require a scientific background. It was obvious that Academy instructors acknowledged her ability if nothing else. It wasn't like Voyager could request a replacement Chief Engineer. He wasn't prepared to comment on Paris' actions yet. The official or those that were most likely personally motivated. He didn't miss the way Paris dismissed his son or refused to look at him. That was not his concern. The report he was going to have to make to the Commander and Chief was.
After watching both recordings one more time he leaned forward in his chair and did the only thing he could. Pressing the intercom to his assistant,
"Get me Ellis Vaughan."
The engineering crew during Alpha shift immediately noticed B'Elanna out of uniform. No one commented because they just weren't sure what that was all about. It might be that she was off duty for the day and just stopping by like usual but that wasn't likely. The changes in her over the past year were sever. They were also a boom and a boost to her crew. They kind of missed the occasional flare up between her and Seven because each gave as good as they got. Violence not withstanding. They just liked to hear a good row every once in awhile. But, after word got around the first night she and Seven went to the holo deck, most people assumed she finally came to terms with her Klingon heritage for whatever reason and embraced it. Fine with them. Why she was out of uniform was confusing. Still, they weren't stupid and kept working. Vorik and Nicolette made eye contact discreetly and went back to work.. After three consecutive days of her being out of uniform and in her civilian Klingon clothes people outside of Engineering started to speculate and talk. No one was sure what was going on because she was still Chief Engineer and still a part of the senior staff. A few former Maquis from the lower decks really wanted to know if that meant they didn't have to wear their uniforms either.
The rumor mill was on fire because no one from the senior staff commented or made note of it. Initial stories that B'Elanna and the captain had some kind of falling out were quickly proved false when they saw the two women sitting together in the mess hall a few times laughing and talking during lunch. Still, it was just strange. They'd gotten no word from Starfleet yet on the war situation so B'Elanna never knew when D day would arrive. One evening she and the captain discussed it while having dinner in Janeway's quarters.
"The grapevine is on fire, captain. I'm gonna have to say something soon."
"Why?"
"To preempt whatever negative reaction comes when they find out what's going on back home. Some members of the crew will take greater offense than others."
Maquis wouldn't be happy about it. Bajorans would be incensed.
"True, I was hoping we didn't have to say anything because it has the potential of polarizing the crew before we have any confirmation."
"Yeah, but if they think I'm out of uniform because of some protest to the Federation, there's no legitimate reason for others not to do the same. You put us in the same uniform to show that we are all one crew."
Janeway exhaled deeply before speaking.
"But the particulars of Starfleet Command's decision is no one's business but yours. They aren't entitled to that information and there's no way for them to get access to it. You aren't going to be a P.O.W. and if Starfleet has a problem with that they can just come on out here and impound my ship."
They both laughed.
"Be careful what you wish for captain. Seriously, I don't want any headaches for you. I don't think Engineering would have a problem taking orders from me when they find out. If so, I'll just tie the first one who says something in the shuttle bay and depressurize it then open the doors. It only takes one and the rest will follow."
"There's a reason you weren't training on the command track at the Academy you know."
"Yeah."
"Its your decision, B'Elanna. I don't want you feeling obligated to explain yourself."
She thought about it for a few minutes then came to a decision.
"They're already wondering and they've seen too many changes in me over the last year. I have a responsibility to let them know this isn't a product of my own change but just something that is. I won't mention anything about the war or the alliance. No sense borrowing trouble."
"That is very mature of you. But, you won't make the announcement alone. Chakotay and I will be there."
"You don't have to do that."
"Yes, I do. There will be no doubt in anyone's mind that your place and your position on this ship is secure no matter what Starfleet does."
"Thanks. Um, not that I'm complaining but how come we're having roast chicken instead of...the other stuff."
"Because someone, who did a lousy job of trying to remain anonymous, used Borg encryption codes to lock out all the ingredients for Yankee pot roast from my replicator."
B'Elanna almost choked trying not to laugh.
"You're kidding right?"
"No. And they went so far as to plant a subroutine in the ship's main computer denying me from accessing those ingredients from any replicator on board. Should someone else request those items there is a verbal command instructing them not to be an enabler to my addiction or allow themselves to be duped into supporting my habit."
"Ok, I'm not sure what to say because I don't want to get into trouble but you have to admit that was efficient."
Then she couldn't hold it in anymore and cracked up laughing.
"Shut up."
For all her tough talk to the captain, B'Elanna was nervous before stepping up to speak to the group assembled in Engineering. Only on rare occasions did she assemble the entire team from all 4 shifts but she felt that they should all get the information first hand. She knew it wouldn't take long to fly around the ship and this was the best way of insuring that a large enough group heard the truth even if they wouldn't retell the story. Chakotay caught her eye and moved closer to speak with her.
"You ok?"
"Just more nervous than I thought."
"You don't have to do this, you know."
"Yeah I do. Besides, its too late to back out now. Beta shift will kill me."
"Ok, but I'm right here."
"You always have been."
She smiled and he pulled her into a warm embrace. This really got everyone's attention and they didn't bother trying to pretend they weren't watching. B'Elanna was shocked to see Seven and Harry walk in followed by Tom, Tuvok, Nelix and the Doctor. Chakotay turned to the captain,
"Who's running the ship?"
"Beats me." Then she leaned in and gave B'Elanna a hug and whispered something in her ear before moving next to Chakotay.
They all stood behind B'Elanna and she felt more confident but also realized that the crew was probably getting worried. Then Naomi Wildman came in and walked up to B'Elanna.
"Hey squirt, shouldn't you be in school?"
"Tom said its alright to cut class some times. We all need a break."
B'Elanna rolled her eyes and laughed but couldn't complain. She cut more than her fair share of classes in the past.
"Ok, why are you here? Not that I'm complaining."
"I'm moral support. Plus, I brought you something."
Naomi handed her a beautiful water color painting. And B'Elanna was genuinely touched.
"Thank you, I'll hang it in my office."
"Great!"
Naomi held her hand and didn't move back with the others so B'Elanna figured close proximity was required as a part of her moral support and didn't say anything.
"Ok everyone, can I have your attention? I called this meeting so that I could make the announcement one time and all of you could get the factual information at the same time. Whether you decide to retell the story the same way is up to you but I'd appreciate not having it blown out of proportion."
Nervous laughter from most of the crowd.
"You've all noticed that I am out of uniform. The short of it is that Starfleet Command has revoked my field commission. That does not affect anyone on this ship except me. Uniforms required for everyone else. I am not a Starfleet officer so you do not salute me—not that any of you ever bothered to in the past—and you do not address me as Lt. Captain Janeway had no knowledge of Starfleet's decision and no authority to change it. This did not come from her. Do not make the mistake of spreading that lie or I will track down the source and show my displeasure for your attempt at dishonoring her or me. Think I'm kidding, try me. The captain made me Chief Engineer and a member of senior staff. Starfleet has not addressed that issue so the decision still stands. That's it people. Sorry to get you out of bed if you didn't think it was worth it. The rest of you, get back to work.
B'Elanna was right. It didn't take long for the news to spread around the ship. In less than ½ hour everyone heard it. She was somewhat shielded from the whispers and stares while isolated in engineering. No one looked at her out of sheer discipline. No one was stupid enough to ask her any questions either. This was just one more thing. But, the former Maquis members who'd grown very attached to their uniforms and truly began thinking of themselves as Starfleet officers were concerned that this would happen to them as well. Tension and anxiety was running high. Some Maquis were confused about how they should best support B'Elanna because they didn't have anyone to take their frustration out on. She made it clear it wasn't the captain's decision. Starfleet officers were stunned. The crew had too many problems and one too many attacks. The strain and the stress was obviously taking its toll on the crew. Two weeks later things were getting worse.
The most uncharacteristic sound came from Ops and it was a warning to all of them to take cover. A deep groan followed by,
"ghuy'cha'!"
Tuvok raised an eyebrow as he turned to Harry but would not censure his behavior. B'Elanna smiled, he really did that justice. Harry's command of Klingon was quite good. The captain was surprised 'cause she didn't know he had it in him. Uncertain as to the exact meaning of the word, she knew what it signified and she knew what was coming. The captain closed her eyes for strength before turning around,
"Harry?"
"Sorry captain. Incoming transmission. Same as last time. 1 minute to intercept."
B'Elanna was starting to wonder if she shouldn't work her bridge station because every time she did, Starfleet called. The captain looked at Chakotay and he just shook his head in resignation.
"Tom, please assist Seven in Astrometrics. I want to verify our long range navigation."
"Yes, Mam."
Tom knew why she did that and really didn't care. He was happy to be out of it and practically leapt from his seat turning over the helm to the secondary relief. He looked to Tuvok as he passed and nodded his head ever so slightly. They'd talk later. It really wasn't a good sign, empath or not, when one feels anxiety from a Vulcan. Seven damn near ran from the bridge but stopped to look at B'Elanna.
"I'm working my shift."
"Then I should stand with you."
"Uh uh. They don't need anymore chances for visual inspection. They've seen me. Perhaps they'll appreciate the new fashion trend they started."
B'Elanna was good at the talk but she did not want to be anywhere near Admiral Paris even through subspace. Preparing herself for a trip to the brig, she channeled the full warrior within. Seven looked hesitant because she felt she had a duty to stay. Tuvok was getting more anxious so Tom knew that meant Seven needed to get off the bridge.
"Captain's orders. Let's go."
The way he looked at both of them confirmed that he was trying to get her off the bridge more so than himself but she still wasn't sure. Time was ticking and Harry was already in a bad mood. He just looked at her sternly and in a most impressive tone which was a cross between Klingon and Borg shut down all opposition,
"Comply!"
That did it. She turned and left. Chakotay looked at the captain,
"What is happening to the crew?"
"Exactly. I have a few words for whomever is on the other end of that transmission."
"We're being hailed."
"On screen."
"Captain Jane...." He was looking around and talking but she cut him off and didn't let him get any further.
"Ops, transfer to my Ready room. NOW!"
The way she growled that out left no doubt in anyone's mind that Admiral Paris was gonna to get it. The last thing anyone saw was both of Eugene Paris' eyebrows shoot up in astonishment along with the shocked expression on his face.
Once she was seated at her desk and the connection was established she just looked at him and the force 10 glare coming off her could have burned a hole in the hull plating. Oblivious or just stupid,
"Katie...."
"Captain Janeway, Admiral Paris."
"Excuse me?"
"My rank and my name for address. Its Captain Janeway."
Sensing immediately that this was going to be more difficult than usual, he tried to shift gears. He also couldn't explain to her that it was a conference communication and that many others were watching and listening in.
"Yes, Captain Janeway. I trust all is well."
She didn't say anything to that. She just looked at him like he was crazy. Yeah, this was insubordination to a direct superior but she really didn't care. She was also 60,000 light years away so she was really thinking he could kiss her ass but wouldn't say that until it was absolutely necessary. After a few moments of uncomfortable silence, which she could have cared less that she was the cause of,
"The purpose of this call, Admiral?"
"Is there a problem, captain?"
"There are several problems Admiral. There are 185 problems to be exact. Then there are a few additional ones after that. We'll address those in due course. The purpose of this call, Admiral?"
He didn't know what to say and his protegee was making him look bad in front of his colleagues so he moved on after clearing his throat.
"I noticed that one of your officers on the bridge was out of uniform."
He really shouldn't have moved on to that.
"You really want to do this now, Admiral?"
"Do what?"
"You know very well why B'Elanna is out of uniform. You revoked her field commission but have not bothered to transmit that order or inform me of your actions at the time you did so unilaterally when informing Tuvok. Since I was in the next room I don't think that was too much of a hardship. But then again, I am merely a captain so I am unfamiliar and inexperienced in the ways of the admiralty."
"No order was sent, yet she is out of uniform. It must not have been a hardship for her."
She shook her head in amazement and irritation then sat back in her chair.
"Yeah, you want to do this now. Fine. I told her that until official notice came, she could consider her field commission valid. However, B'Elanna is too honorable a woman to skate around with technicalities. She informed me that since she knew she was no longer entitled to wear the uniform, it would be dishonorable to cling to something that was not rightfully hers. That is why my Chief Engineer is out of uniform. The purpose of this call, Admiral?"
"Your tone is bordering on insubordination, captain."
"Are you going to revoke my commission, Admiral?"
"What is the problem? Or the 185 problems."
"My crew is falling apart as a result of your—actions. That is what. For almost 5 years we have worked as a cohesive unit. Sure, it was difficult in the beginning but we came together. I offered those field commissions for a reason. Everyone on this ship was to be an equal. I touted Starfleet principles. Gave them assurances that we could survive as long as we worked as one. Encouraged them to see past differences of Maquis or Starfleet. Put everyone in the same uniform and gave them rank and assignments based on their ability and nothing else. Everyone on this ship got a clean slate. No one was treated differently because of their past actions and certainly not because of their race. A fresh start and an opportunity to start over. That is what I promised them. One crew, one ship, one goal. We were united until your uninformed knee jerk reaction. ½ the crew is scared they are going to be stripped of their field rank and duties. The other ½ of the crew is so confused and they're all wandering around waiting for the other shoe to drop. And this is without learning the particulars of what is happening in the Alpha quadrant. That information, unofficial as it may be because as captain I have had no briefing on the matter, is being held among senior staff. We are completely alone out here and all we had for the last 4 years is each other. Now all of them are scared they don't have that anymore. Thank you, Admiral."
He just stared at her not knowing what to think or say. The next words out of his mouth were going to be difficult and he had no idea how she'd react.
"Captain, its war time."
"In the Alpha quadrant its war time. In the Delta quadrant we're just trying to stay alive. The purpose of this call, Admiral?"
This was not going well at all.
"Captain, you know that in certain situations there must be sacrifice...."
"Sacrifice? You want to talk about sacrifice from your office at Starfleet Command in sunny San Francisco? I've got your sacrifice. Four years of water rations. Replicator rations. And the only reason we have replicator use is because B'Elanna worked some kind of engineering miracle of epic proportion to do that. Hell, I'm an engineer and I still can't figure out how she managed to make them work again. Four years of searching for planets with non toxic vegetation. Away teams who's only purpose is to go out searching for food for this crew. We have a mess hall. Intrepid class ships don't have mess halls, they have a captain's dining room. Well on Voyager the captain grabs a tray and stands in line with everyone else to eat whatever our cook—yes we have a cook—has managed to prepare. What is the purpose of this call, Admiral?"
He did not know what to say. He had no idea the situation was like that. Honestly he hadn't thought about it that much. Sure, he considered their difficulties with hostile species after watching Seven go off in the conference room. But all of this talk about replicator rations and having to search for food hadn't crossed his mind. None of them sitting in on the meeting thought about that and it was information they needed to have. Now some of them are shifting uncomfortably in their chairs. Vaughan catches Bates' eye and gives him the 'I told you so' look.
"Captain, there are several purposes to this call. First, I am forwarding official notice regarding B'Elanna that her field commission has been revoked. Second, to inform you that the Klingon Empire has declared war on the Federation. There is notification of that in the transmission as well. Do you have any questions?"
She said not one word and simply stared at him with the 'get on with it' look.
"There is also a order rescinding Tuvok's order to arrest B'Elanna as a P.O.W. that won't be necessary at this time. She may continue serving as Chief Engineer. But, she is not a citizen of the Federation nor is she a citizen of a world with membership to the Federation pending. She is a citizen of a government we are at war with. There is a general announcement for you to read and distribute to the crew. You aren't saying anything, captain."
"Because I'm listening. And I'm trying to figure out how I can spin this disaster to my crew."
"Excuse me? What is the problem?"
"You have caused dissension and division within my crew unjustifiably. Maybe the Bajoran members of the crew would have taken the Federation's alliance with Cardassia a bit easier and with less fear if they didn't already have proof of the way Starfleet treated B'Elanna. Now, I will have to spend a great deal of time trying to assure them that their home world is still free and hasn't returned to Cardassian occupation. Bajor hasn't returned to Cardassian occupation has it, Admiral?"
"Of course not!"
"Well, my credibility is pretty much shot with the crew at this point so hopefully they've got some mail from home and an outside source can verify that for them."
"Perhaps if B'Elanna hadn't...."
"Don't. Please, do not do that. We have known each other a long time, do not do that. Do not show me a side of you that I have never seen in all these years. Do not confirm the fears and doubts of your character that I have pushed into the back of my mind for the last few weeks with words you will regret because they will be the last words you speak to me as anything more than my superior officer and not someone I looked up to like a father for years. Don't shame yourself in my eyes. Not today. Not after everything else you've done. Save it for when my crew is better. For when we are not running low on all essential supplies. For when we haven't just survived a boarding party that put 20 members of my crew in sick bay after fighting off invaders all over the ship. Save it for after we find a warp capable friendly planet so my crew can get some shore leave for the first time in—god I don't even remember. Save it for then, and not a moment sooner. "
"Katie, I didn't mean to upset you."
"I don't know what's going on with you or anyone else in the Alpha quadrant. But I'm concerned with what I have seen so far. Before you make any grand or sweeping decisions affecting me and my crew, think about it. Think about how they would affect you if you were 60,000 light years from home just trying to make it home while adhering to Starfleet principles. You'll get my reports soon. I'm transmitting them at the end of this communication. You will see. If I had violated the Prime Directive, we could have been home 4 years ago. Hell, read the logs there have been 7 opportunities for Voyager to return and each one of them would have been a direct violation of Starfleet and Federation law but I could have gotten my crew home. It would have been so easy. I was tempted; god knows I was tempted. No one would have known. But I followed the law. Do you know what its like to look your crew in the eye and say we cannot do that? Trust me, we can still find another way home if we stick together. They trusted me. Each and every time, they trusted me. They believed in me, Eugene. And every time it looks like the end for Voyager I have to wonder if it isn't my fault because I insisted on following the law. Every time someone dies I'm reminded that they wouldn't still be here in the Delta quadrant if I had just turned a blind eye and taken the easy way out.
Can you imagine how hard it was, how much strength of character it took for this crew to swallow their desire to get home because they are adhering to Federation law that prevents the means for the one thing they crave? Do you understand how much conviction and dedication that takes for my crew? Do you have any idea how difficult it was for former Maquis members of this crew to sweep aside everything from the past, look their one definite chance of getting home in the face and then say no, it's a violation of Federation law? Its against the Prime Directive. There is no Starfleet and Maquis crew, it is just one crew. There are people on this ship who never attended the Academy for even a guided tour who can quote chapter and verse from Starfleet regulations and know exactly what they're talking about. I didn't require that, they have done that on their own.
I said Voyager is the Federation in the Delta quadrant. We are making First Contact for future ships that pass this way. But even if no one found out, I would know. My officers would know. So we didn't. We upheld Federation laws. We have followed all of Starfleet's regulations. There was no guarantee we'd ever hear from you all. But my department heads and senior staff complete their weekly reports, update logs and store them in the ship's computer waiting for the time that they are supposed to submit them, just as if we were in the Alpha quadrant. They have all done their parts. None of them told me they wouldn't follow regs or adhere to ships rules because they weren't Federation citizens. None of them complained and said they wouldn't do as they were assigned because they weren't Starfleet Academy graduates or traditionally commissioned officers. They said aye captain and they did everything I asked of them.
You singled out a member of my crew as a cheap shot because you could and drew a line in the sand. You looked at B'Elanna and only saw Klingon then you put Tuvok in the worst possible position with your covert and clandestine meeting. He is Vulcan, he is not made of stone. And he has to live on this ship just like everyone else. Do you all at Starfleet understand that the reality is we might spend the rest of our lives on this ship? That we might never make it back to the Alpha quadrant? All we have is each other and there are no transfers or reassignments possible. Thank you for rescinding the order because it will make Tuvok's life easier. Why? Because you must have been crazy or out of your mind if you thought I was going to let that happen. Yeah, that's insubordination write it up and put it in my file. If we make it back to the Alpha quadrant I'll take the heat for it then.
Do you understand that Voyager would not be here, the crew would be dead if it weren't for B'Elanna? I have to put her on restrictive duty because she works too many hours in engineering if I don't watch her. She loves her job and she loves working on this ship for this crew but you slapped her in the face. Starfleet said she has no worth and no value because of her race. By the way, Voyager found out what really happened to Amelia Earhart and several other humans missing from Earth during the early 20th century. It was B'Elanna who figured out how to destabilize the force field surrounding the stasis chambers the alien race who abducted them in 1937 housed them in. Technology that is more advanced than anything the Federation has access to. It was B'Elanna who figured out how to bypass the locking mechanisms on those stasis chambers so we could revive them. In case you care, Ms. Earhart is a fascinating woman and the opportunity to speak with her is something I'll treasure for the rest of my life.
There is no one else on this ship who can do what B'Elanna does. I am an engineer and if it were up to me I could not have gotten us out of some of the scrapes that she has. I could not have designed some of the upgrades she has made to this ship to help keep us alive and moving in the right direction toward home. Starfleet Corps of Engineers says that 79% is maximum efficiency for the Intrepid class warp core. Do you realize that Voyager's warp core operates at 103% efficiency? Voyager can cruise at warp 9.9 for 36 hours easily. That is because of B'Elanna.
She is 25 years old with no diploma and continuously does what all the Starfleet experts say is not even theoretically possible. I won't even explain how she risked her life to contain the Omega we encountered two years ago. If she and Annika had not come up with some off the wall impossible system for repairing ripped space, Voyager and every other warp capable ship in that system would still be creeping along on impulse power. They actually stabilized Omega molecules for 3.7 hours in a controlled environment that they designed and built on their own. That is unheard of. According to Federation science that is not possible. They did it. And Starfleet actually expected me to throw B'Elanna in the brig because of her DNA?
But she is more than just the Chief Engineer and if she were a crewman from the lower decks I would value her just as much and go to bat for her just as fiercely. I don't care what the political climate in the Alpha quadrant is in comparison to protecting my crew.
I have a valued and trusted member of my crew who is now terrified of the Federation. I spent the last few years telling her how wonderful Federation values and principles are. The good work of Starfleet as the peace keeping arm of the Federation but that we are more than that. That we are about exploration for growth and understanding while accepting diversity and protecting individual liberty. She believed me. She believed everything I told her. And now she is terrified of the Federation and Starfleet. Terrified of what prejudice against her would lead to because she has seen an up close and personal example of the real Starfleet. This–is–what–you–have–done–to–my–crew."
"Is there anything else, Admiral?"
Her voice was so distant and intense while she spoke it was painful to hear. He didn't mean to push her this far and he knew he crossed the line. But, he also couldn't go back and reinstate the field commission after that. He still didn't know what to think about Seven. Hearing that a Borg was afraid of the Starfleet and the Federation caused mixed emotions. Hearing some of the things B'Elanna did made him very uncomfortable because he realized that Starfleet Corps of Engineers would be all over them. Not one person watching this subspace conference communication moved and barely breathed while she spoke.
"Captain, we were unaware of most of the things you've shared."
"That might have something to do with the fact that you did not bother to ask me."
"Yes. As I said, the information and orders will be transmitted to you at the termination of this call. The orders as they are, stand for the time being but are subject to change. I can appreciate the difficulties of your unique situation now but caution you to use due care when considering contravening a direct order."
She's just tired now and no longer wishes to speak to him or anyone else from Starfleet.
"Admiral, you or anyone else from Starfleet are more than welcome to come out here and personally relieve me of command, impound my ship and tow us to the nearest Federation ship yard. In the meantime, we have work to do."
He really should have shut up a long time ago but didn't get it. He just got it.
"Well, if there's nothing else, take care until next time."
"Goodbye."
After terminating the connection she used the piggy back system and transmitted all of her reports for the past four years. She also included her captain's log. The call was much longer than she realized and took its toll on her. Janeway had no idea if Admiral Paris cared about the things she said or if he would lighten up in the future. Her problem was how she would deal with the crew. The incoming directives and notifications from Pathfinder arrived but she didn't have the heart to look at them and got up from her chair. She walked over to the couch and sat down feeling like she'd just gone 10 rounds with a heavy weight.
15 minutes later the door opened and Chakotay came in to check on her. He was concerned by the length of time she spoke with Paris and had Harry notify him when it ended. After she didn't return to the bridge he suspected she was not in the best condition so he wanted to make sure she was alright. She never looked up, didn't even acknowledge his presence. Chakotay sat down next to her silently. Without a word she simply leaned into him and he put his arms around her. Whatever happened during that call was definitely not a good thing, he was sure. So, he offered her support and waited for her to speak when she was ready or able.
Admiral Francis O'Reilly, Judge Advocate General, sat quietly in his office for several minutes after the conference link was broken. He, like everyone else, was not sure what was going on with Janeway. Everyone thought this would be the best means of determining just what kind of potential liability or problem she and her crew would cause the Federation. They agreed that Paris should be the one to make contact due to their personal relationship but also because he is her direct superior. O'Reilly was not prepared for anything he heard. He thought on how Voyager kept surprising a lot of people at Starfleet and was sure there'd be more to come. After confirming with his aide that the entire communication was recorded properly he retrieved the recording of Voyager's senior staff meeting and made the call that he knew he couldn't put off much longer. This was definitely something that Admiral Irena Khmelnova needed to see immediately. O'Reilly wasn't sure what she'd make of it but he had a pretty good idea. He tapped the intercom once,
"Get me the Commander and Chief."
Until she started laying out the last four years to Admiral Paris, Janeway was able to keep some of those things abstract in her mind on a daily basis. But, the reality is that she fears the backlash from her crew. Not mutiny. That isn't a concern. No, she fears that extra second hesitation when she gives them and order, that sweep of an eye when she tells them something and they are trying to decide if they believe her or not. Cautious reserve in place of open acceptance she grew accustomed to after the crew came together. And, she is afraid for Starfleet and the Federation. She has no idea what the truth of things really are back there but something was going on. Or did it take 4 ½ years in the Delta quadrant to see that Starfleet had always been that way? She really did not feel like testing reality versus any propaganda that she might have bought into at this time. She was just tired.
It wasn't very captain like. She's pretty certain Starfleet would not recommend this as the ideal position for holding a briefing but she didn't really care at the moment. She was also becoming aware that at some point she crossed the line with her XO or he with her because these was no longer the supportive arms of a colleague. She was quite actively participating in a very non professional embrace. Maybe she could have played it off and talked herself out of thinking that if she hadn't just noticed her fingers running through his hair. Yeah, definitely not the way to communicate with one's XO. This is the very thing she tried to prevent for the last year or so. Besides, she was an engaged woman. At least that's what she kept telling herself because she's pretty sure that Mark mourned her passing then moved on. She also realizes that after 4 years in the Delta quadrant, she's changed so much he wouldn't recognize her let alone understand her. As good as this feels, she's sure she must stop it. She really has no clue why at the moment but is certain the reason will come to her later. Hopefully, before its too late. She moved to pull away but the arms tightened around her.
[Apparently, I am not getting out of it this time.]
Apparently, she didn't really care all that much because that was pretty much the end of her resistance. In fact, she made herself more comfortable and hoped the fallout wouldn't cause too much damage to the ship.
"Are you ready to talk about it?"
She exhaled on that one and shifted in Chakotay's arms so that she was resting with her back against his chest. Hey, she's the captain ALL the time. She figures if she's gonna screw things up she might as well do it the right away and get to just be the girl for awhile. Chakotay must be a mind reader because he obliged and did the guy thing of giving her all the room and then encircling her once again. It really did feel good to take just a little physical comfort and lean on someone else for once.
"No, but you know we have to. The short of it is, all hell broke loose, orders were forwarded, and I think I told Starfleet to kiss my ass."
Even though there were some very serious things to discuss from that sentence, he couldn't help starting with the last one first.
"Excuse me? You think you told them to kiss your ass?" It was teasing and disbelief at the same time.
"There's not much I'm certain of during that conversation but I...kind of got a little worked up. I do recall mentioning something about him being crazy if he thought I was going to let B'Elanna be arrested. And, um at the end something I said might be construed as a kiss off or a challenge."
He's amused at this side of Katherine though he always knew she was capable of it. He'll worry about potential damage later.
"A challenge? What exactly could you say that could be construed like that?"
When she told him he sat up on the couch and turned her around so he could give her the full inspection. Either she'd lost her mind, which he was almost certain that she hadn't, or things were so screwed up at Starfleet and within the Alpha quadrant hell had more than broken loose. He was going to have to monitor or limit her communication with Starfleet if she wanted to continue being a model officer. It was just this sort of thing that could lead to Maquis behavior. Then he thought about what he just thought about and realized he needed a vacation because...well never mind.