Chakotay walked Voyager as he and the crew made preparations for the upcoming journey through the Alpha Quadrant. They had been tasked with assisting with the recovery efforts for those planets which had been hardest hit by the recent Borg invasion. One planet, in particular, had seen its fledgling government collapse amidst the humanitarian disaster and internal rebel skirmishes were becoming common and dangerous. Starfleet felt Chakotay was the perfect Captain to monitor the situation in case it grew into something that required the Federation's fuller attention.
Their mission was currently scheduled for six weeks and Chakotay was grateful that it seemed like a routine one that would bring him home safe and sound for his wedding to Kathryn. They had decided on a traditional Native American wedding of seven steps where each step would be a vow to each other and to their life together blended with a simple exchange of traditional final vows that would include Kathryn's family traditions. A reception with all of their friends and family would celebrate the occasion and Chakotay knew it would be the best day and night of his life.
"Not long til the big day, eh, Captain?" Tom walked up carrying a padd that he handed to Chakotay. "Final orders from Starfleet. This should be a smooth in and out as long as the Nevians behave themselves. They should once our reinforcements arrive."
Chakotay scanned the report. "Yeah, we'll see how respectful of authority they can be. Voyager's all set to go?"
Tom nodded. "Voyager's all set to go." He clapped a hand on Chakotay's shoulder and leaned in close. In a hushed voice, he said, "And don't think you're getting married without one hell of a bachelor party. Harry and I have it all planned."
"Tom," Chakotay said.
Tom put up a hand and pinched his cheek. "Uh, uh, big guy. We're having it. I didn't get one with Belanna so I'm trying to make up for myself here a little bit. Cut a guy a break, okay?"
Chakotay grinned. "Then, let's do it. But, you will take Belanna's heat, not me."
Tom slapped him on the back. "I love you, man. I really liked Admiral Janeway when she was in command but she didn't know how to have any real fun. You do. And wait til you see the girls…"
"Tom…"
Tom held up his hands as he walked away. "Holograms! They'll be holograms! I am already married, remember?"