Note: This story is a continuation of the timeline written in Obla-De Obla-Da. However, it can be read as a stand alone episode without missing any subtext. All you really need to know is Captain Janeway and Commander Chakotay are happily married and have a son.

By: Sara Jordan

Part 1

/Beep/.../Beep/.../Beep/

Kathryn rolled over groggily. Damn. You need to answer your door Kathryn, before whoever's out there gets worried and calls security. And it had been such a lovely dream too... Chakotay stripped to the waist, the warm sun dancing off his dark hair, sweat making the muscles in his upper body gleam as he... Oh, well. What was that saying? 'No rest for the wicked?' Rising and pulling on a robe, Voyager's Captain entered her living area. "Come."

The door slid open. B'Elanna stood in the corridor holding her crying child. "I'm sorry, Captain. I know it's late, but I can't get her to stop crying."

"It's all right B'Elanna. Come in." She led her Chief Engineer over to the couch and sat. Gently she reached for the baby. "Here, let me try. Sometimes mom gets so frustrated that baby can't relax." She tenderly took the tiny infant and began to rock her back and forth. It didn't seem to have any effect so she stood and began to walk. Slowly the baby began to quiet; her cries became less forceful, after a few minutes she settled down into loud sniffles and then finally faded off to sleep.

Janeway smiled as she continued to pace. Good to know I haven't lost my touch. she thought.

She looked at her engineer. B'Elanna looked terrible, dark circles had formed under her eyes and her hair hung lifelessly against her head. Fatigue seemed to drip from her every pore. "Be', how long has this been going on. You look like you've missed more than one nights sleep."

"Every night for over a week." The Klingon looked ready to cry with despair. "The first two nights Tom was able to calm her, but ever since he and Chakotay left I haven't been able to do anything for her. I'm afraid I'm just not a very good mother."

Kathryn chided herself for sending Tom out on such an extended assignment when little Katie was still so small. She should have at least made sure that B'Elanna was getting help, 3-month-old babies were very demanding. She crossed the room and sat down next to her friend. "I wish you would have come to me sooner, you need to take care of yourself as much as Katie."

"I didn't want to bother you." B'Elanna admitted quietly. "I was afraid we would be disturbing Kol's sleep and I didn't see a need for two crying children."

Kathryn chuckled. "Don't worry about Kol, he's just like his father, he could sleep through a warp core breach." She stood and let a little command tone slip into her voice, "Now, I am going to put Katie in Kol's crib, he has plenty of room. You lie back on that couch and get some sleep. I promise things will look better tomorrow."

Katie seemed so small as she carried her into the baby's room and placed her in the crib. Compared to Kol she is tiny. It seems forever since he was this small. She lay the little girl down next to her son and checked to make sure both were breathing correctly, a habit she didn't think she would ever break. At 13 months, Kol was the picture of a healthy baby. Asleep in his bed he looked almost exactly like his father; dark hair, wide shoulders, strong hands. The only trace of herself was his pale skin. On the other hand, when he was awake he was nearly all Janeway. He had begun walking at 10 months and with his growing mobility had come a growing curiosity. He poked and prodded his way into every object or situation that caught his eye. He was also stubborn as a mule--he had learned early to stand, hands on hips, and glare when his parents displeased him. But, for Kathryn, the most precious part about her son was his eyes. While green like her own, they sparkled with the love and laughter that was Chakotay's gift. It seemed he was the perfect combination of his parents, her fire and determination, and Chakotay's love and strength.

Covering both children with ample blanket she turned and headed back into the living room. B'Elanna lay on the couch already deeply asleep. Kathryn smiled as she retrieved another blanket and covered her friend. How well she remembered the first tiring months of motherhood. She hoped B'Elanna realized that this stage would pass and greater gifts awaited.

When Kathryn awoke the next morning she found Torres already up and nursing Katie. "Good morning everyone," she greeted them as she entered the nursery. "Kol, did you say hello to our guests?" she asked as she picked up her baby. Instead of an answer she got a very slobbery kiss and a giggle.

"Captain, thank you for the shoulder. I didn't mean to inconvenience you, but I didn't know where else to turn. I have a lot to learn about being a good mother."

"Don't be so hard on yourself, B'Elanna. No one is born with the answers, we learn as they grow. You don't think I had a clue to what I was doing when Kol came along, do you? It gets better, you just have to learn to be patient with yourself."

B'Elanna snorted as she switched Katie to the opposite nursing position. "Captain, I'm Klingon. What are the chances of my learning patience?"

"Don't give up, you may surprise yourself."

An hour later Kathryn entered the Bridge. Today should turn out to be a good day, she thought as she reviewed the duty roster. Kol didn't cry when I left him, all the training simulations are complete, and Chakotay should be close enough to report in, in a few hours. Smiling she began her days activity.

After a few hours of reports and simulation reviews she had to force herself to stop checking the time every 15 minutes. Settle down, Kathryn, he'll call when he's close enough. She made herself concentrate on the report on phaser performance, she missed Chakotay terribly, but watching the clock would not bring him home any faster.

When Harry finally announced the shuttle's hail she nearly jumped for joy. With what she hoped was a calm professional tone she told Harry to relay it to her Ready Room; she tried not to run as she crossed the Bridge.

When his face appeared on her monitor she felt the familiar surge of emotion. "Hello, Commander." she said, trying to maintain a shred of professionalism.

"Captain." he greeted her matching her tone. "We are in route, and on schedule. We should arrive at the rendezvous coordinates tomorrow at 1300 hours."

"Very good" A little personal pleasure slipping into her acknowledgment. "Any luck with the Flek?"

She knew before he answered that it was not good. After 7 years as her Exec, and 3 as her husband she could read his face like her own.

"No luck. They are under no circumstances interested in our offer. We need to keep a wide distance from them Kathryn."

She could see the conviction in his face and the warning in his eyes as easily as she heard his words. "That bad?"

"You have no idea. I'll explain when we get home." he paused and she saw him switch gears to a personal level. "Miss me?"

She eagerly switched tracks with him and shed all pretense of professionalism. "You know I do. Oh honey, you should have seen Kol last night! He was playing with Harvey and I swear he almost said a real word. I'd like to think his first word is going to be 'mommy', but the way he holds onto that rabbit I don't stand a chance."

Chakotay grinned at her excitement. With mock seriousness he replied, "You tell that young man he has orders not to say a word until I get home." He then added more sweetly, "I don't want to miss anything so important."

"I'll do what I can, but you know your son, he's a little stubborn. If he decides to talk I can't stop him."

Chakotay laughed. "Don't try to lay the blame on me woman. That stubborn streak is definitely a Janeway trait." His smile deepened. "I miss you, love. Kiss Kol for me, and know that my heart is already home."

Kathryn felt her heart catch in her throat. How did he come up with a better line every time he told her he loved her? She decided she didn't care as long as he kept doing it. "Hurry home." she said quietly blowing him a kiss.

After the message terminated she felt much better. One more day and he would be home; Back at her side, back in her arms, and back in her bed. Smiling she let her mind return to the dream B'Elanna had interrupted last night. Maybe she would tell Chakotay about it. She spent the next few minutes contemplating the possibilities that idea promised.

After her duty shift she headed for Engineering. B'Elanna had seemed fine this morning, but the Captain had a feeling her chief Engineer had not cleared the last hurdle of the baby blues. She found B'Elanna issuing orders to the Beta shift. As she waited for the chief to finish Kathryn noticed the dark circles were gone. It was a good sign. When her friend finished, she stepped forward. "Hello, B'Elanna. Why don't we pick up the kids and have dinner in the Mess Hall? I think there are a few things we should discuss."

B'Elanna nodded with her usual Klingon brevity, but she added a smile to acknowledge the Captain's kind attention. As they made their way to the Children's Center they discussed ship's business, trying to cover the professional topics before motherhood pushed them aside.

The Children's Center was for safety reasons located next to Sickbay on Deck 5. Voyager now had 10 children on board, and a growing number of couples who might someday wish to add to the number. Assignment to duty here was strictly voluntary. Crewmembers spent their shift tutoring the older children and caring for the babies. It was a pleasant workstation and there was never a shortage of personnel waiting their turn for duty.

As the two women entered the Center, Kathryn was happy to see Sam Wildman on duty. It wasn't that she mistrusted the rest of the crew, but having Voyager's most experienced mother in charge always comforted her.

She quickly spotted Kol banging blocks into a pegboard. She smiled, he looked so much like his father. As his little hammer fell on the green and blue shapes she easily recalled Chakotay's construction efforts on New Earth. She knew someday Chakotay would teach their son the survival skills he had demonstrated during their months on that planet. It pleased her to picture the two of them able to fashion life from the rudiments of nature.

Sneaking up behind him, she scooped her son into her arms and gave him a kiss. "Hello, my little man." she greeted the squealing boy. "What are you building today?"

Kol giggled and shrieked with joy at his mother. Reaching out with strong hands, he pulled on her hair. Obviously he had no respect for the dignity of the Captain's ponytail. Laughing Kathryn reached behind her head and released the barrette. She knew better than to attempt to keep it with Kol in her arms. Still giggling and kissing the precious baby she headed across the room to help B'Elanna collect Katie.

During dinner, Kathryn gently guided the conversation to B'Elanna's maternal feelings.

"I don't understand it Captain. I try to do everything the right way, but I just can't seem to make her happy. She cries a lot, and every time I pick her up and try to comfort her it gets worse."

"B'Elanna, I don't think it's anything to worry about. My guess is that she senses your fear and anxiety. She's your baby, the Klingon part of her isn't going to respond well to those emotions."

B'Elanna growled. "Great, another obstacle compliments of my genes."

"I'm not sure it's an obstacle. Look at Katie now, she is perfectly content in your arms. Babies cry, especially Klingon babies, be patient you'll learn to know what she needs."

The new mother seemed to consider her words. Don't push Kathryn, she gets the idea. "If you are feeling down again, don't wait to come talk to me, that's what Captains, and friends, are for." Smiling Kathryn shifted the conversation to a more neutral topic. The rest of the meal was spent talking about their children, and laughing at Kol who insisted on feeding Neelix's leola-casserole to himself.

Part 2

The next day Kathryn waited impatiently in her Ready Room for 1300 hours At 1247 Harry informed her that Voyager had reached the coordinates. Now all that was left was to wait. She hated waiting. At 1255 she stepped back onto the Bridge hoping her anticipation didn't show. She took her seat and pretended to read a report on sensor maintenance.

At 1301 the shuttle fell out of warp along side the ship. "Begin baying procedures she ordered. "Harry, advise Commander Chakotay and Lieutenant Commander Paris that they are expected to report to my Ready Room immediately." She waited until the shuttle was safely inside the shuttle bay. "Helm, resume course to the Alpha Quadrant, Warp 6." she turned the Bridge back over to Tuvok and crossed to her office. She didn't have to wait long, Chakotay and Tom reported only moments later.

"Welcome home, gentlemen." she greeted them. The smile she gave Chakotay promised a much warmer reception as soon as they were alone. Reluctantly she tore herself out of the seductive lure of his dark eyes and began to discuss business. "I gather from your transmission yesterday that the mission was not a success. What exactly happened?"

"We were either intentionally mislead or tragically misinformed about the nature of Flek civilization, Captain." reported Chakotay. "Their society is a strict military hierarchy. The economy is based entirely on domination and conquest. They are not interested in conducting trade, however, they would be very interested in acquiring Voyager. I recommend every effort be taken to avoid contact with them."

"I agree with the Commander's recommendations, Captain." piped Tom. "These guys make the Cardis and the Klingons look like Cub Scouts. The Jem'Hadr might give them a run for their money, but I wouldn't bet my replicator rations on it. They have managed to subjugate nearly every planet in the six nearest systems. Their government maintains control through terror and mass executions. They shoot people on sight for something as minor as crossing the street against the light. All in all a wonderful little civilization."

Janeway frowned, "Were you able to gain any information on their territorial claims or shipping lanes?"

"Yes. We will need to be very careful for the next several months. The Flek have a very long arm." responded Chakotay darkly.

"Very well. I would like to review the information in detail with the senior officers. I'm scheduling a briefing in 15 minutes."

Chakotay nodded his agreement, Tom looked disappointed. "Captain, may I be dismissed?" asked the helmsman. "I'd like to say hello to B'Elanna and Katie before we dive into our mission report."

Kathryn smiled. "Of course, Tom, but don't let B'Elanna get too carried away with your welcome. 15 minutes isn't long enough to say hello and have Kes set a broken bone." Paris actually blushed at her teasing.

As he turned to leave she called after him, "Tom, be sure to pay close attention to B'Elanna over the next few weeks. She's feeling a little deficient in some areas and it's troubling her."

Tom looked concerned over the Captain's cryptic warning. "Thanks Captain, I will."

When he was gone Chakotay gave a puzzled look and asked, "What was that all about?"

Kathryn stepped around her desk and advanced slowly on her husband. "Nothing too serious. Be' is just feeling the baby blues. I don't want her Klingon half overreacting to the depression. Don't worry, Tom can handle it."

As she finished explaining she slid her arms around him. "I missed you." she told him quietly.

Chakotay grinned and returned the embrace. He gave her a quick kiss. "Prove it," he purred wickedly.

"I'm not sure 15 minutes is enough time, but I will say hello." The kiss she gave him, despite her words, said much more than hello.

Kathryn felt fire erupt throughout her body as Chakotay began to touch her. He softly caressed her hips, and then let his hands travel up her back. With his normal desire he began to thread his hands through her thick hair and then let one hand fall to softly stroke her breasts. As their passion grew his hands became more demanding. A very unCaptain-like moan escaped from deep inside Kathryn's throat as he began to nibble and kiss his favorite spot.

When Tuvok called to inform her that senior officers were gathering in the conference room neither was willing to part. Kathryn rested her head on her husband's shoulder and sighed, happy to have him home. He hugged her tightly and lay a gentle kiss on her neck.

"The rest of the duty shift is going to seem like an eternity." He pulled away and Kathryn saw laughter in his eyes. "Why don't we let Tuvok conduct the meeting and the two of us take the day off?"

Kathryn began to rearrange the damage to her hair and uniform his wandering hands had inflicted. She shaped herself back into regulation, but her eyes still held her desire for what had been interrupted. "Nice try, Commander, but no. Sorry to be such a tease, that little hello got carried much farther than I had intended. You do seem to have that effect on me. But then again, the waiting will only improve your appetite. "

As she had for more times than she could count, she let her command mantle settle onto her shoulder and replace her emotions. It wasn't as easy as it had once been--before she had met Chakotay; but it was still very necessary.

Sighing Chakotay followed her out the door. He had a very real need to spend some personal time with his wife, but he knew it could wait. He had always accepted the fact that the ship came before their romantic relationship. As they passed through the door and headed to the conference table he whispered into her ear.

"Kathryn my appetite is huge right now, if you make us wait too long, there may be a Thanksgiving feast in our quarters tonight." He smiled as his words made her blush--he loved being able to do that to her, the color gave her beauty an added touch he knew was only meant for him.

That night Voyager's First Officer and Captain ate dinner in their quarters accompanied only by their son. Chakotay felt as happy as he could ever remember being. This was how he wanted to spend the rest of his life. It didn't matter if they made it back to Federation space, it didn't matter if they ever saw Earth again. All that mattered was being able to spend each night with his wife and child, content in their love and his love for them. Chakotay laughed as Kol tried to use a fork to spear a small piece of pear. Watching his son grow and change was the most satisfying sensation he had ever experienced. It was amazing to watch him try and master the subtleties of human behavior. Kol finally gave up and used his fingers to push the last pear into his mouth.

"Ok, Mister, time for a bath and a story." announced Kathryn.

"Let me do it, love. I missed more than a week's worth of bedtime, I want to make up for it," said Chakotay.

Kathryn nodded, smiling at his desire to share in the care of their son. "Don't get the floor wet, you two. And don't get him too wound up, Chakotay, he needs to go to sleep soon."

"Yes, Ma'am." answered Chakotay helping Kol to salute his mother. Kathryn chuckled and began to clear the table as he carried Kol in for his bath.

After a bath, complete with a father-son splash fight, and a story of the tribe's history, Kol wasted no time drifting into a gentle slumber. Chakotay kissed his son and quietly tiptoed out to find his wife.

"He went down quickly," noted Kathryn.

"I told him you and I needed some time alone, he understands the situation," joked Chakotay.

"Hmm, as astute as his father, eh?"

Chakotay encircled his wife with his strong arms and gave her a deep kiss. "As I recall, it was I who first knew we needed some time alone. You spent 3 years blowing me off."

"Shut up and kiss me again."

Chakotay stopped talking and did as he was told. It had been a long week and he soon stopped following orders and began giving some of his own. Their physical relationship had always been the best either had ever experienced, both willing to give and receive equally. Kathryn never carried her seniority into their bed, preferring in fact to let him guide their lovemaking. Chakotay for his part never lost sight of her pleasure as he sought his own.

Their first climax came quickly and forcefully to both. Sweating and panting, they relaxed on their bed amid a tangle of shed clothing and twisted sheets.

"Maybe I should leave for a few days more often." observed Chakotay. "You certainly seem to appreciate me when I get back."

Kathryn traced misty swirls across his chest with her fingers. Reaching up she flicked her tongue along his jaw line and then nipped his ear lobe. "I don't think so, I don't like sleeping alone. I'm not sure I had a really good night's sleep the whole time you were gone."

"Well, you ought to sleep well tonight, this sort of exercise usually knocks you right out." he teased.

"Oh, I intend on sleeping well, especially since I'm not done playing yet." She rolled over on top of him and kissed him, the satisfaction of the past minutes replaced by a renewed desire.

Chakotay responded quickly, she could feel him growing hard and ready beneath her. That was what she had been waiting for. With slow deliberate strokes she began to lick a trail across his body. She began at his chest, but followed a slow and twisted path downward. He moaned when her tongue found its destination, the waves of pleasure she was able to create washed upward through his entire body until he was shaking with desire.

When Kathryn could deny herself no longer she retraced her path up his body. She placed a passionate kiss upon his lips, demanding a return of the pleasure she had just given him. Raising her upper body she invited his attention onto her breasts. With the eagerness of a week of separation he began to kiss them, rolling his hot tongue across her nipples and causing deep throaty moans to escape her. He caressed and fondled her breasts with his hands as he continued to stimulate flashes of heat and desire with his mouth. Pulling up with her hips she moved until she felt him settle into the right spot. With an impatient thrust she slid him inside her and gasped at the pleasure the sensation gave.

Chakotay grinned and gave her a quick kiss that reminded her of why she loved him so much. With little effort he rolled them both over until he lay on top of her, his weight helping to push him further inside her. Without taking his eyes away from hers, he began to move in a slow rhythm which he knew would bring them both the satisfaction they needed without rushing the experience. His movements brought her panting and moaning to the brink of ecstasy, and then let the feeling fall away-- he really was in no hurry to complete this second session of lovemaking.

As she felt her climax beginning, Kathryn wondered at the satisfaction her reaction caused in his eyes. He enjoyed bringing her here as much as he enjoyed his own release--just another reason to love him. Any further contemplation of the psychological ramifications of their sex life were silenced as she floated away in pleasure. Feeling her orgasm Chakotay allowed himself to move at a more demanding pace, as Kathryn's climax faded his began. She held him tightly as he shuddered with pleasure. When it was over they lay together still joined and not yet ready to part. Sleep took them both shortly after. As Kathryn had anticipated, it was her first good night's sleep in a week.

Part 3

The next few days passed quietly for the crew of Voyager. Chakotay's recommendations about the Flek made a circuitous route necessary. Janeway had increased their velocity in hopes of off setting the time lost on such a course. After all these years she still had not lost her desire to see home again. In fact, Chakotay teased her by saying she must have taken Homing Pigeon 101 at the Academy.

On their fifth day of skirting Flek space they began to detect warp signatures from Flek ships. The Captain had ordered a course correction hoping to distance them from any ship close enough to detect them. Sensors were on a constant sweep for any readings that would indicate activity. The result was a vast amount of technical data. As the Captain and First Officer sat in her Ready Room reviewing the material Kathryn felt lucky to have such a talented officer as her Exec; husband or not, Chakotay was probably the best Tactical expert she had ever seen--too bad no one in the Federation knew it.

"That's our best bet, Kathryn" He told her after making his evaluation. "I know it kills you to lose such an extended amount of time, but I don't think we have a choice. Their weaponry and engines are comparable to our own. As far as I can tell we hold no advantage. There is no way we, as a single ship, can withstand an organized Flek attack; we simply do not have the resources. Given our limited options, I recommend an even greater course adjustment. We must take a wider berth around their space."

Kathryn nodded her head in agreement. She had come to the same conclusion herself, but had wanted his opinion before making a final order. She had hoped he would see a Flek weakness she did not. She stood and started to make her way to the Bridge. Tuvok's voice reached her before she way halfway to the door. "Captain Janeway to the Bridge. Red Alert."

She could feel Chakotay a half step behind her as she raced out of the room. "Report."

"Two Flek ships just appeared directly in our flight path Captain. They fired one salvo across our path." called Harry.

"Hail them Mr. Kim."

"No response Captain."

"Tom, plot a course around them and engage at warp 8." she ordered. Better to try and avoid a fight at 2-1 odds, she told herself.

Voyager leapt ahead of the unfriendlies and for a while it looked as if she might be faster. But, with two ships they were able to box her in and within an hour Janeway was again looking at the two ships as they closed in on her location.

"Options?" she queried her Bridge officers.

"Captain, I can keep out flying these guys all day, but they are not going to shake loose. They have a comparable speed and they out man us. I suggest we think of another course of action before they signal for help." suggested Paris.

"A single confrontation would be an illogical course of action at this time," added Tuvok. "Their weaponry is nearly equal to our own, with a 2 to 1 advantage they would stand a 79% probability of destroying us in the first twenty minutes."

Janeway gave her First Officer a glance, he seemed to be studying the nearby solar charts. "Commander?" she asked him quietly. "Do you have a suggestion?"

He called up the data on a nearby binary star system and pointed to its gravity well. "Do you remember the story I told you and Kol about the fox and the rabbit?" he asked.

Immediately Kathryn felt hope. "Mr. Paris, set course for the far side of that binary system, maximum warp." she ordered. She gave Chakotay a smile, "It just might work."

The burst of speed put Voyager on the opposite side of the system a full two minutes before the Flek ships could make the journey. "Janeway to Engineering," called the Captain. "B'Elanna, I need every ounce of hydrogen you can replicate in the next minute. On my mark vent it through the Bussard collectors on each narcelle. Also, we are going to be making a quick jump to warp, be ready for the dilithium to shake down there."

Torres acknowledged her orders without question and Janeway could hear her beginning the procedure as she closed the link. She turned and looked over her shoulder at Tuvok. "Mr. Tuvok, I will need a torpedo modified to emit a warp signature matching Voyager's main reactor core. Launch will be in one minute fifteen seconds."

Tuvok did not have much faith in the plan he saw unfolding, but complied nonetheless. "Aye Captain."

Chakotay stood and stepped next to his wife, "You realize they haven't actually fired a shot at us yet, only a warning." he said quietly.

"I noticed, I'm chalking it up to quick getaways and Tom's flying. I'd rather not stay around to learn if I'm wrong about their intentions."

"Captain," reported Harry, "the Flek ships have cleared the stars, they will be on us in ten seconds."

"Paris," she ordered without pause, "set course for the center of the system's gravity well."

Paris raised an eyebrow in surprise, but followed the order. "Hope this works," he muttered, "otherwise we'll be flatter than a pancake from the pressure."

The Flek ships paused only a moment before following Voyager into the path of the star's tug-of-war. Voyager began to shake and Tom fought to control their speed as they neared the stars. Kathryn waited until the computer was announcing the hull stress levels in 5 second increments before she took action.

"Tom, set course bearing 000 mark 35 She ordered. "Get every ounce of warp power you can from those engines."

"Aye, Captain."

"Janeway to Engineering. B'Elanna, prepare to vent that hydrogen... Tuvok, launch torpedoe on our current heading. Everyone on my mark."

Chakotay took his seat. "All hands, brace for acceleration. Harry, lay down a spread of phaser fire one thousand kilometers to stern."

When Harry had complied Janeway gave her signal. "Now, people."

The g-force from the acceleration was almost more than the inertial dampers could handle, but the ride smoothed out after a few seconds.

Without waiting to see the Flek's reaction she ordered. "Helm, set course back around the nearest star, best speed."

When the ship cleared the star and they had a moment of relative safety she called for sensor reports.

"Looks like whatever we did fooled them," offered Harry. "They are no longer in pursuit. Sensors indicate they continued on our original course after we jumped. It should take them a while to figure out where we went."

Kathryn sat, how she had managed to keep her footing during that maneuver she would never know, but standing made her feel more in control of the ship and she hadn't wanted to give that up. She smiled at Chakotay. "Thanks."

"Don't thank me, you pulled it off."

"The phaser fire was a great touch. It might not have worked without the cover."

"Well, I just remembered that in my story the rabbit used the bushes for cover, we needed some bushes."

"Commander," called Tom over his shoulder, "I think that's one ancient Indian legend I'd like to hear."

"Maybe some other time Paris, I'd like to make sure we aren't still going to have company before I put you down for your nap."

Paris looked like he was going to respond until he caught the look in Janeway's eye. "Good idea, sir. I think I'll keep watching our back."

Part 4

For the next two days Voyager continued away from Flek space. They saw no sign that they were being followed, but Janeway could not relax. The escape had been too easy. Her ploy was only meant as a stop gap measure, it should not have fooled the Flek so completely. They were an advanced military society with technology similar to the Federation, their easy dismissal left her far to suspicious for comfort. It was of course possible that they had not been able to escape the pull of the twin stars, that complication had been the basis of the whole plan. But, for both ships to be totally unable to pursue was something she was not willing to suggest. No, they were still out there, she knew it. She would have to remain watchful.

She was forced to consider a change in tactics when B'Elanna came to her Ready Room later. "Captain, we really can't keep going like this. The maneuver you pulled back at the binary system worked like a charm, but it put a serious drain on our engines. The engines needed a rest and a check for damage 2 days ago, but we haven't fallen out of warp long enough to do any maintenance. I really need to get in there and take a look before they fall apart from some minor damage I should have already taken care of."

Kathryn sighed, the engineer in her knew that B'Elanna was right, the Captain in her screamed that it was too dangerous. There really wasn't a choice here, the engines were far too important to risk on some vague sense of nagging doubt.

"Janeway to Kim," she called activating her comm badge.

"Kim here."

"Have we detected any new readings or anomalies Harry?"

"No, Captain. All sensors show no sign of any warp activity in the sector."

"Very well, B'Elanna, you win. Slow to impulse, Mr. Kim. Find a planet to use as cover from Flek sensors, we're going to do some maintenance. Inform the helm that warp engines will be off-line for 2 hours."

Janeway sat on the Bridge unable to relax her guard while they were so vulnerable. At exactly one hour and fifteen minutes into the engineering diagnostic the Flek began their attack.

"Captain," reported the Ensign at Ops, "two Flek ships just popped in .7 AU from our position."

"Shit." muttered Janeway. "Helm, full impulse way from those ships." she ordered. "Senior Officers to the Bridge."

By the time Paris raced onto the Bridge and took the helm there was little he could do to avoid their trap.

"Janeway to Engineering." called Janeway knowing B'Elanna had not left her engines.

"Torres here, Captain."

"B'Elanna, I need warp capability in two minutes."

"I'd love to help you Captain, but it just isn't possible. The absolute best I can do is ten minutes. And that is with a cold start."

"Do what you have to Torres, but I need those engines. Janeway out."

Janeway looked at Paris, if Torres couldn't deliver right away, it was up to her husband. "Buy your wife some time, Mr. Paris."

"I'll try Captain." he didn't sound very confident.

Chakotay sprinted out of the turbo-lift and raced to the seat at her left. It only took him a moment to review their situation. "They're closing in on us Captain, I'd say they were heading us toward a standard attack position, they want us between them."

"Mr. Paris, evasive maneuver Beta 6."

The order given by her Captain almost saved Voyager. As the smaller ship spiraled down and turned into it's new heading the Flek fired their first intentional shot. Instead of a direct hit to their port nacell, Voyager escaped with a hit to its saucer.

"Direct hit." reported Tuvok as the ship bucked under the strain of defending against the attack. Shouting over the red alert sirens, he continued. "Shields are at 78%. Minor hull breaches on Decks 8 and 13

"Tuvok," returned Janeway, "locate their primary weapons array and return fire."

Tuvok complied with the order immediately, having already targeted the weapons system of the other ships. "Minor damage to the first ship, no damage to the second." he reported.

"Helm, 40 degree starboard roll." ordered Chakotay. Paris completed the maneuver bringing Voyager within immediate striking distance of the more damaged ship.

"Full phaser spread, arm torpedoes." ordered Janeway.

"The first ship has been disabled, Captain." reported Tuvok.

"Target the second ship and fire torpedo one." ordered the Captain.

"Torpedo one has been launched." Tuvok paused allowing the missle to do it's work. "Direct hit, Captain. Their engines are off line."

Unfortunately, before Janeway could order her ship to retreat to a safe distance a shudder shook the Bridge knocking both commanding officers out of their seats.

"Report." ordered Janeway pulling herself up off the floor.

"Captain, we've got a hull breach on deck 11. Sheilds are down. The second ship has attached itself through some multilevel phased tractor beam. They've got a really tight hold on us." called Harry. A warning bell began to sound on Harry's already busy console. He looked up at his Captain with dread, "We've got intruders on Deck 11. Sensors indicate 40 life forms; all Flek."

Janeway did not hesitate. "Computer, transfer all computer control to the Bridge. Access through Senior Staff voice authorization only." They will not gain control of my ship, she told herself. "Janeway to Engineering. B'Elanna, you've got intruders on your deck. Arm your crew, I want everyone out of there in 20 seconds. All computer control has been rerouted to the Bridge."

"Aye, Captain." answered the Klingon, "we're on our way."

Janeway turned to Chakotay, "Take Tuvok and get down to Deck 10. I want them contained to the lower section of the ship."

He nodded already moving to the door, to meet Tuvok. She watched him leave, only for a moment worried that she had just ordered her husband into the most dangerous place on the ship. It was too easy to dwell on her fear for him, better to think about it later. "Janeway to Transporter Room 1. Lock onto any crewmembers still located on deck 11 or any lower deck. I want them transferred to your location immediately."

"Aye Captain." came the reply. "I have 20 crew on those decks, transport will be complete in 10 seconds."

Janeway nodded even though she knew the crewman couldn't see her. That should cover the first step. No crew left behind enemy lines, computer control secure, and a defensive perimeter established. They will not find this ship so easily taken. she vowed.

Part 5

Janeway stood in the corridor waiting for the advance team to open the hatch. She shifted her rifle to her other arm and used her left to tap her communicator. "Janeway to Bridge." she said quietly, unable to control the sense of stealth that surrounded her situation.

"Kim here Captain."

"Any change Harry?"

"No, Captain. They still seem to be concentrated in main engineering. They continue to try to gain access to the computer core, but they aren't going to be able to do it from where they are."

"We're almost ready to begin here. I want immediate notification if your sensor readings change. I want to know where they are before we get there. Understood?"

"Yes Ma'am."

"What is the status of the other ships?"

"Both have remained in proximity, but no aggressive stance has been taken. It appears that neither ship has been able to repair the damage to their vessels."

"Keep an eye on them Harry. I don't want any surprises. Janeway out."

Two members of the advance team emerged from the Jeffries Tube. "We're ready Captain."

Janeway nodded. She glanced at Chakotay who stood at her shoulder. No time or privacy to say what needed to be said. Instead she settled for a simple, "be careful."

He nodded and smiled warmly at her. "You too."

Janeway motioned to her part of the assembled crew. "My team will go left. Those of you with Commander Chakotay will head right. Commander Tuvok's team will make a strait shot into main engineering. Is everyone clear on their assignments?"

"We're ready, Captain." Chakotay answered for the teams.

"Very well, let's go. And good luck to us all."

Janeway led the teams into the tube. Armed conflict would have been her last choice in a way to deal with the Flek. But, they had refused to answer any hails to either the ships or the invasion force. If she could not talk them off her ship, then she would force them off. Surrender would never be a voluntary action.

The usually busy engineering room was as dark as the eel-bird nesting caves of Regulus V. Either the Flek were expecting them, or they preferred the dark environment. Normally such a power failure in engineering would have been less ominous, the illumination from the engine panels making the dark less forbidding. But, Janeway's rerouting of control had left the normally bright panels completely dark. Hand lamps and compression phaser rifles at the ready the three teams spread out to canvas engineering for intruders.

The first shot was fired by the Flek. The shot narrowly missed Kathryn's head, landing instead on the wall behind her. The shrapnel from the exploding wall panel rained down on her team as they dove for cover. The Captain grimaced as bits of plastisheen and electrical conduits embedded themselves in her back. Raising her rifle she fired in the direction from which the shot had originated. It was impossible to see if she had inflicted any damage, but the return fire did gain them a moment to regroup.

She tapped her communicator. "Janeway to Chakotay and Tuvok. They are using projectile weapons gentlemen. Watch yourselves."

Both officers responded "Acknowledged."

There wasn't anything else to say so she closed the link and focused her attention on the enemy. She could vaguely make out six or seven shapes moving into formation behind the nearest work station. She signaled her team into position, when they were ready she ordered. "fire." Seven phaser rifles fired their beams into the darkness. Cries from very distinctly non-human voices were heard. It was impossible to tell how many were injured, but it was clear that the Starfleet weapons had found at least a few of the intended targets.

The sense of accomplishment was short lived. Almost immediately the Flek returned fire. Blasting their guns furiously the Flek lay down a curtain of fire all around Janeway and her team. Bullets bit deep into the panel and workstation in front of her, the wall behind took a heavy beating. Ensign Childers who crouched not three feet from her suddenly cried out as a bullet struck him. Blood spurted from his wound and his body fell to the floor. Janeway returned the assault hoping to buy enough time to have the crewman beamed to Sickbay. It worked, following her example the Starfleet team silenced the Flek attack.

"Janeway to Transporter Room 1."

"Martin here Captain."

"Lock onto Ensign Childers and beam him to Sickbay."

"Aye, Captain. Beginning transport."

Janeway relaxed slightly as her crewman vanished in the sparkle of transport. His injury had not looked too life threatening, it was good to know he would be receiving help quickly. She didn't have long to think about it. The transporter beam had given the Flek enough illumination for a momentary look at the Voyager teams location. They opened fire immediately.

The exchange of fire was nearly equal for a few minutes, neither team gaining or losing any significant ground. Janeway was ready to try a more daring attack when they began to receive fire from a second location. "Fall back," she ordered.

She was not so fond of her teams location that she was willing to fight a two-front war. Her team began to retreat toward escape, but the second group of Flek cut them off.

"Kim to Janeway." chipped her comm. badge.

"What is it Mr. Kim, we're a little busy."

"Yes, Captain. Your position is surrounded. The Flek just transported another complement of troops into engineering. They have you seriously outnumbered."

"Acknowledged. Begin transporting the teams out of here. And get those shields up and running, I don't want any more intruders on my ship!"

"Aye Captain."

Seconds later Janeway materialized on the transporter pad. She quickly stepped down and watched as Chakotay's team materialized in the same spot. She breathed a silent sigh of relief that he was unharmed and that all six members of his team were with him. "Report Commander." she ordered as Tuvok and his team joined them.

"We sustained heavy fire from a large group of Flek soldiers. We were unable to secure the area. We did manage to take out several of their people before a second wave of soldiers hit us from a different angle. We were in the process of retreating to a more secure location when you ordered our beam-out."

Janeway nodded at the nearly identical description of her own experience. The Flek were good at this. Tuvok stepped up to make his report. "My team experienced a similar series of events, Captain. We did neutralize 7 of their 9 original soldiers before the second attack began."

"Seven out of Nine." said Chakotay, "That's impressive Tuvok."

"As Security Chief, I am the most probable officer to inflict serious damage to the enemy's forces." Responded Tuvok dryly.

"We're going to have to do a lot more than inflict serious damage to get those bastards off my ship," said Janeway darkly. Both men had seen the look in her eye before, and both respected the promise of violence and victory that it foretold.

Janeway led her First Officer and her Security Chief onto the Bridge. "How are the shields, Mr. Kim?"

"Shields are back on line, Captain. We found a discrepancy in the power levels on deck 6. B'Elanna thought it might be an indication of a secondary hull breach, she's gone to check it out."

Janeway nodded, glad to know the shields would keep out any more Flek troops. The power fluctuation was a concern, but nothing B'Elanna couldn't handle. "I want a meeting, all available senior staff."

Moments later she sat surveying the faces around the table. Each department head tried to present their most formidable front. Tuvok was as stoic as ever, Harry was doing a passable job of hiding his emotions, and Paris as always gave nothing away. They were good officers trying to show their Captain what she needed to see, their professionalism, but that was not what she needed. She let her eyes fall on Chakotay, knowing there she would find what she needed.

In contrast to her other staff, Chakotay's face revealed everything about their situation; the fear invoked by the very idea of invasion, and the anger at the sense of violation it brought. The comforting fact was that the opposite forces ran just as freely across his dark face; determination to rid themselves of the Flek, pride in himself and the crew, and confidence in her leadership. Kathryn drew the strength to continue from that face.

"It's time for a counter strike, gentlemen," she declared calmly. "Mr. Kim, find a weakness. I want a strike team on one of their ships in ten minutes. Commander Chakotay, assemble a team to incapacitate and take their ship. Mr. Tuvok, you and I will rid this ship of its intruders and get B'Elanna back to work on our engines. Mr. Paris, you will have the Bridge, keep close contact with both parties I don't want any surprises. Any questions?"... "Dismissed."

As the men filed out of the room Chakotay remained seated. When they were gone he turned to Kathryn not as her First Officer, but as her husband. He stood and pulled her toward him, releasing her when their bodies were only a few inches apart. He laid a gentle hand against her cheek wishing he could find a more intimate caress and knowing there was not time. "Be careful, Kathryn. You are going to be in a lot of danger. I don't want to come back to find you let some Flek jack-ass win."

She smiled at him and he felt his heart quicken to a new beat; she could so easily affect him. "I never let you win, why would I let the Flek beat me? You just need to make sure you do come home."

"Nothing is so powerful that it could keep me from you, love." he answered.

Their kiss was sweet and precious, both wanting to imprint the scent and feel of the other upon their brains and bodies. When they parted Chakotay gave her the dimpled smile that had first captured her heart. There was no more time. He tapped his comm. badge. "Chakotay to Maquis Wolf team, all members report to Transporter Room 2."

Janeway cocked an eyebrow in question. "Maquis wolf team?"

"The senior Maquis strike team. They are the members of our crew with the most experience at surgical guerilla strikes."

"A good choice, I just wasn't aware that my computer recognized Maquis crew assignments."

He smiled his best outlaw smile. "Your computer has been our computer for 7 years. It has my fingerprints all over it."

She laughed. "Get out of here, you pirate."

He nodded and turned on his heel. "I love you." he called over his shoulder just before he stepped through the door.

After he was gone Kathryn allowed herself one private moment more. "Janeway to Children's Center."

"Gerron here, Captain."

"How is everything? Are the children all right?"

"Everything is secure." answered the Bajoran. "The children are all fine. Kol is even taking a nap."

Kathryn smiled at the mental image of her sleeping baby. "Very well, thank you Mr. Gerron. Inform the Bridge of any change in your status. Janeway out."

Janeway straightened her shoulders, no time left. She headed onto the Bridge to see about ridding herself of the Flek. As she exited the Conference Room she realized that B'Elanna had not yet reported back to the Bridge.

"Bridge to Torres." There was no reply. She tried again as she cast a glance at Tom who now sat frozen at the helm.

"Janeway to Torres." When she still did not receive an answer she queried the computer.

"Computer, locate Lieutenant Commander Torres."

"Lieutenant Commander Torres is at access panel 12, deck 6 section I17."

"Is she conscious?"

"Negative."

A cold dread gripped her at the realization of the most probable cause for such a situation. "Tuvok, initiate level 9 forcefield protocols on decks 4, 5 and 6. Harry, begin a recalibration of your internal sensors. I have a feeling the Flek are no longer confined to deck 11."

"That is highly unlikely, Captain." argued Tuvok. "All posted sentries have reported secure areas."

"That may be the logical assumption, Tuvok, but I have a terrible feeling about what is happening. You and I are taking a team down there to find out."

"Captain," called Paris rising from his chair. "Request permission to accompany you."

Janeway saw the concern for B'Elanna in his eyes, "I'm sorry Tom, request denied." She laid a gentle hand on his shoulder. "I'll get her out of there for you. I need you here, in command. Keep an eye on us and on Chakotay's strike force."

He nodded, recognizing the necessity of her plan.

Janeway and Tuvok headed for the 'lift. As the doors closed behind them Tuvok gave final instructions to the security teams. When they exited the lift on deck 6 twenty armed crewmen were waiting for them.

It took only a few moments to find B'Elanna. The engineer was lying on the floor in front of an open access panel. "Get her to Sickbay" Janeway ordered pointing to two crewmen. They nodded and gently carried the Klingon away.

Tuvok was frowning at his tricorder. "Captain, whatever was interfering with our sensors does not effect tricorder readings. There are twenty Flek on this deck, 50 meters around that corner."

"Let's cut them off. Take half our force and circle around behind them. I'll continue around the corner. Don't keep me waiting my friend."

Tuvok selected his team and trotted off to take his position. Janeway gave him a moment to complete his route and then led her team into the fight.

The skirmish was short, but intense. Bullets flew past Kathryn's head as she rounded the corner. Diving for cover in a doorway she returned the fire. As bullets bit into the wall around her she marveled at the sadistic nature of a culture technologically advanced enough to use phasers but choosing to use projectile weapons instead.

Her team began to take a serious beating from the superior Flek forces. After what seemed an eternity, she heard Tuvok engage the enemy from the opposite direction. By combining their attacks the Voyager crew began to reduce the number of Flek.

Feeling victory near Janeway led her team in a final assault. Pain dropped her to the floor after only a few steps toward her targets. The bullet had struck her left arm and she grasped it as she fell trying to halt the spurting blood. The sight of their Captain lying in her own blood seemed to be the last straw for the crewmen, their run became so violent that the Flek quickly fell. Tuvok captured the last two Flek soldiers hoping to gain information from their debriefing.

Biting back the pain Kathryn struggled to gain her feet. Her hand left a large pool of blood on the deck plate as she touched it in rising. She smiled as Ensign Parsons reached out to help her. Using his help she stood, pausing as nausea and dizziness tried to drive her back onto the floor. When she felt as steady as she could hope she shook off Parsons and stepped toward the Flek prisoners.

"Why have you invaded my ship?" she demanded.

"I will not answer your questions, inferior." snarled the Flek. "Ask any thing you like, it will not help you. This campaign is nearly over. We were but a diversion, you are already defeated."

"What sort of diversion?" demanded Janeway.

The answer came not from the prisoner, but from her communicator. "Paris to Janeway."

"What is it Mr. Paris."

"Captain, the sensors are realigned and now reading Flek life signs. They just picked up a large contingent of Flek making their way onto deck 5."

Kathryn's pain vanished in the wake of the greatest fear she had ever experienced. The children are on deck 5. The thought was barely recognized before she turned and sprinted for the nearest 'lift.

"We have security teams on their way to deck 5 now, Captain." reported Paris.

"Acknowledged. They have orders to use whatever force is necessary to deny them access to the children, Mr. Paris."

The steel in Paris' voice was filled with thanks. "Aye, Captain."

Janeway led her team onto the lift while Tuvok's team began to climb the Jeffries Tube.

Part 6

The scene that greeted them upon their arrival on deck 5 was something out of Kathryn's worst nightmare. Kes and B'Elanna were being held at gunpoint in the corridor outside the Center. Fear caused Kathryn to freeze. Where are the children? Have the Flek taken a position inside the Children's Center?

Tuvok rounded the corner and stood at the Captain's elbow. "A dangerous situation." he observed quietly.

"Worse than I could ever imagine." answered Kathryn bleakly. "Tuvok, leave the squads here. You and I are going to try and gain access to the Children's Center through the Jeffries Tubes."

"Captain, is that a wise course of action? You are still injured and bleeding. You may not possess the physical ability to lead such a mission."

"I know that Tuvok, but I will not sit here why those terrorists take my child hostage."

Tuvok nodded and returned to the crewmen to quietly set the plan in motion. Janeway crept around the wall and opened the entrance to the J tube. Careful not to aggravate the tangled mash of flesh she used to call her arm, she climbed into the chute and waited for her friend.

As Tuvok finished issuing the necessary commands to the security detail a commotion caught Janeway's attention and she climbed out of the tube to find out what was happening.

"Let go of me, you ha'teq!"

Janeway immediately recognized B'Elanna's voice. The anger and hatred making the Klingon sound every bit as dangerous as Janeway knew her to be. There was a shout from one of the Flek and then a weapon was fired. Peering around the corner Janeway saw the Flek dragging B'Elanna through the doorway into the Center. Kes was roughly shoved along in their wake. As the small Ocampa passed through the door she cast a quick look directly at the Captain.

She knows we're here, Janeway told herself. She must have detected us telepathically. Janeway knew her chances of success were now much improved. Kes was aware of their presence and would know that they would begin a rescue attempt. A more comforting thought was the knowledge that B'Elanna was inside with the children, Janeway knew the Klingon would protect them all until both her hearts were unable to beat. She made her way back to Tuvok. "Seal this deck," she ordered the security troops. "Don't alert the Flek to your presence unless you have to, and don't make a move toward the Center unless you hear from me. Understood?" She turned to Tuvok and motioned toward the Jeffries Tube. "Let's go, we don't have much time."

The confined space was difficult to maneuver in, but then again she had never tried to crawl through a Jeffries Tube with a gunshot wound before. The adrenaline that had carried her into the lift and cleared her head was wearing off. The blood flow had slowed, but her constant movement kept the wound from closing. She could feel bone chips grinding on bone chips. It was difficult to make her limb function at the right angles. She knew she did not have long before the pain and loss of blood would completely incapacitate her. That knowledge increased her sense of urgency. She sped down the tunnel leaving a bloody trail for Tuvok to follow.

Access to the Children's Center was easy to find. The fact that they could not see what was happening on the other side of the wall gave her reason to pause. She motioned for Tuvok to use his tricorder to scan the room. He complied and quietly reported the results.

"Nine Flek are concentrated near the entrance. The children and two adults are seated against the wall to our right. Their communicators indicate that they are Ensign Wildman and Crewman Gerron. Lieutenant Commander Torres is seated against this wall, two meters to our left. Kes appears to be administering to her medical needs."

"Tuvok, can you contact Kes?"

"It is possible, however I can not guarantee success."

Janeway nodded and indicated that the Vulcan should attempt to contact his student. Tuvok slid his body down along the wall until he was positioned as close as possible to the Ocampa on the other side of the wall. He placed his hand on the wall in the traditional mind meld position. Janeway watched as he quickly slid into a trance. After a moment he sat up, once again aware of his surroundings.

"I have succeeded, Captain. Kes has an amazingly powerful telepathic ability, she was aware of our arrival even before I initiated contact. She is ready for our action as is Torres."

Our action, thought Janeway, what is our action? Do I dare risk an attack in the same room with the children. What will I do if something happens to Kol? How do I go on if I cause harm to a crewman's child? Janeway found herself unable to continue, the fear for her child and the other children of Voyager was too great. This is why you should never have broken the Starfleet protocol against Captains fraternization, she told herself. But, even as she chided herself she knew it was not true, her life with Kol and Chakotay was the only thing that gave her the strength to continue with their journey. Without them she would never be able to return the crew to Earth. Get a hold of yourself, Captain, she ordered silently. The time for action is now. Get Kol away from those madmen before it is too late.

"Refresh my memory Tuvok. Are there not several shelves about three meters high between the children and our current position?"

Tuvok consulted his tricorder before answering. "Affirmative, the shelves are 3.1 meters high and 2 meters wide. They almost exactly divide the 7 meters between us and the children."

"Then we need to move now, while the children have a modicum of protection. On my mark." She tapped her comm. badge, "Now, Mr. Baxter."

The two lifelong friends knew without explanation what was needed. When both were in position Janeway nodded, Tuvok released the seals on the Jeffries Tube access and they burst into the room.

Janeway went first her smaller frame darting low. Shooting awkwardly, but precisely from the CPR tucked between her body and the maimed arm she attempted to annihilate the soldiers who had dared threaten not only her ship and her crew, but her baby. The taller Vulcan began to fire over her head as soon as he cleared the wall. Outside she could hear the evidence of her Security personnel engaging the Flek. Keep them busy, Baxter, thought Janeway, the last thing I need is more Flek falling back to this location.

The noise in the corridor and the surprise attack created a startled confusion among the Flek that allowed the two officers to neutralize three of their enemy. The confusion was short lived as training began to take over the Flek's actions. Janeway and Tuvok might not have succeeded if B'Elanna had not timed her attack to coincide with their entry from the wall.

With a warrior's cry the Klingon engineer leapt at the nearest Flek soldier. The Flek were large, taller and more muscular than Tuvok's Vulcan physic, certainly more intimidating than Janeway's slight frame, but the soldier was no match for the Klingon. B'Elanna's attack was brutal. She quickly broke the arms of her target and unable to defend himself he was easily knocked unconscious. As Janeway and Tuvok shot and dropped two more of the armed Flek, B'Elanna tore through their ranks inflicting more bodily harm than seemed possible for one woman. With the ease of Klingon aggression she snapped the necks of two more of the enemy. The final member of the Flek team attempted to flee the room, Janeway dropped him with a phaser blast from her rifle before B'Elanna could intercept him. Unable to fight a conscious opponent B'Elanna settled for kicking his inert form. She wheeled around searching for any Flek still able to provide combat.

Janeway could see the self-control of B'Elanna's Starfleet training struggling to control her warriors fire.

"Lieutenant Torres," she barked. "Stand down." Her order seemed to help B'Elanna focus. She nodded her head and Janeway could see her breathing begin to level out. She signaled the security unit, "Lieutenant Baxter what is your status?"

The corridor is secure, Captain. We had to completely knock out the Flek, they wouldn't surrender, but they are all unconscious now."

Kathryn felt her head begin to swim her vision blurred momentarily, she forced herself to remain conscious. She had long ago ceased to be able to feel her arm. As she lowered her rifle she decided it was fortunate, the wound now bled profusely; ripped even more widely apart by the exertion of controlling the rifle. You're going to have to do something about that soon. she told herself; and she would, but not yet.

"Tuvok, check on the crew." she ordered. She turned too quickly, making her head spin and stumbled over to check on the children. She wanted to cry at the scene that greeted her at the back of the room.

eight...nine...ten. She counted each little head before breathing a sigh of relief. Kes, Sam and Gerron had sheltered the children with their own bodies. Several bullet holes indicated that the adults had come very close to losing their lives for the effort. Tears filled her eyes as Kol struggled out of Kes' arms and toddled over to her his arms outstretched.

The relief was more than her over extended body could take. Sinking to her knees she scooped Kol into her arms and cried. She hugged him fiercely, not caring if she smeared her blood all over his little shirt. Tears fell from her eyes and traced trails down her cheek, dropping from her jaw and onto the top of his dark head. Kol looked up at her, his young face somber as he sensed his mother's turmoil. Gently he reached up and brushed away a tear. With the insight and understanding of his father he snuggled into her arms and gave her a hard hug around the neck. For a few moments Kol was the only thing in Kathryn's universe, she held him and rocked him gently, wishing she could keep him this safe forever.

After a few minutes she became aware of Kes' voice. "Captain, you really must allow me to do something about your arm." Kes put aside the tricorder she had been running over her body. "You have lost a dangerous amount of blood, and an infection has already set into the surrounding tissue. How you have remained on your feet is a mystery."

Kathryn smiled and pointed at B'Elanna. "That is how, Kes." B'Elanna stood gently holding Katie and whispering to her, tears fell freely from the woman who only moments ago had been a savage killer. "The mother instinct is more powerful than the physical body." Kathryn knew her worries about B'Elanna's baby blues were now over, an added bonus to the happy scene before her.

Kes nodded her head in understanding. "That is something my medical studies never addressed, I don't think it is something the doctor would understand. Come on, you really need to get to Sickbay."

Kathryn didn't resist when the tiny doctor helped her to her feet, but she refused to put Kol down. Carrying her son she walked out the door and down the hall to Sickbay. "Janeway to Bridge" she said tapping her comm. badge as she sat on the biobed.

"Paris here, Captain."

"What's our status, Tom."

"The modified sensors have allowed us to detect the Flek. There is still a complement in engineering, but it is less than half their number. There were twenty Flek on deck 5, but your team has neutralized all of them. That seems to have been their primary destination. There are smaller parties on decks 10, 8 and 4. Each has been isolated and the squadron Commanders expect to have them under control within minutes."

"Any word from Commander Chakotay and his team?"

"Not in the last hour. We did receive notification that they made a successful boarding of the first ship. After a brief message they initiated comm-silence. There has been no further word."

Kathryn felt a new fear growing inside her, Kol was safe but what of Chakotay? Was he having any success or had he fallen to these terrorists? She pushed the thoughts away with impatience, they would not help. "I'll be in Sickbay for awhile. Contact me at the first indication of any activity. I also want to be notified as soon as the Flek on the upper decks are stopped. When that is over Tuvok will lead a strike team into Engineering. Understood?"

"Yes, Captain... Captain, can you tell me..."

Janeway smiled in understanding, slightly ashamed of herself for not telling him sooner. "B'Elanna and Katie are fine, Tom. They are in the center whole and happy."

The relief in Paris' voice was almost palpable. "Thank you Captain. Paris out."

Janeway tapped her badge again and called Tuvok. "Tuvok, take as many men as the ship can spare and head down to Engineering. I want the rest of those bastards off my ship as soon as you can do it. We need to be ready when the away team signals."

And he will signal, she assured herself.

"Aye Captain."

She turned to look at the Doctor who had been scanning and administering to her as she spoke. "How bad is it Doctor?"

"Well, once again you have shown a striking disregard for your own health. Lucky for you I have more than enough skill to correct all your damage. Now, I really must insist that you lie back, I have a lot of work to do."

"Here, Captain." spoke Kes. "Let me take the baby. I promise he'll be alright."

Kathryn reluctantly handed her son to Kes, as she lay back on the bed her vision blurred and she felt herself slipping into unconsciousness. She was not sure if the doctor had given her some kind of sedative or if the lack of blood had finally caught up with her. In either case there was little she could do, and she quickly sank into oblivion.

Part 7

Kathryn opened her eyes to darkness. How long have I been out? What is happening to my ship? She had to get to the Bridge and find out what was happening.

"Doctor?" she called.

The holodoc stepped up to her side and began to study the readings on her bed. "How are you feeling, Captain?"

"I'll be alright." she answered evasively. "How long have I been unconscious?"

"Only four hours. You lost a great deal of blood, and I had to do some major surgery on your arm, but all went well. I expect you to be back on your feet in a day or two and the regenerative process will be complete in about a week."

Janeway nodded. "Thanks." she said as she sat up and slid off the bed.

The Doc reached out and grabbed her arm. "Where are you going?"

"Doctor, I have a damaged ship, a missing away team, and intruders on board. I am going to the Bridge. When this is all over we will discuss the need for me to take a recuperative leave, but right now I am far too busy. Thank you for your assistance, now get out of my way."

The doctor regarded her in contemplation and then nodded. "Very well, but if you feel in any way that you may be in need of my services I would like to be notified."

"Of course." replied Janeway with a smile. "One more thing, where did Kes take Kol?"

"I believe she still has him. Mr. Paris gave the all clear about twenty minutes ago, she said she was going to take him to get something to eat."

Kathryn relaxed, Kol was in good hands. With a nod she turned and hurried out of Sickbay. As she made her way to the turbolift she contacted Kes.

"Kes here, Captain."

"Kes, thank you for taking care of Kol. Is he alright?"

"Yes, Captain. I just fed him some dinner. I was about to take him back to the Center so that I could return to Sickbay. Would you like for me to bring him to you there?"

"No, I'm on my way to the Bridge. Could you please take him back for me?"

"Yes of course, but Captain you really should be resting."

Janeway smiled at the Doctor's imprint on Kes' professional demeanor. "I know, when all this is cleared up I will take a couple of days off. Thanks again Kes. Janeway out." By the time she finished her conversation the lift had arrived at deck 1. "Report, Mr. Paris." she ordered as she exited.

Paris rose from the center seat. "We have captured all Flek invaders, Captain. They are currently in the Brig, Commander Tuvok is interrogating them now. We have a small number of wounded, no casualties. The shields are at one hundred percent. B'Elanna has the warp engines back on line. We did sustain some major structural damage from the hull breaches and the nature of the Flek weaponry. Repair crews are on it. There has still been no word from Commander Chakotay's team."

Janeway absorbed every detail of his report with clarity, the last bit bringing a moment of doubt and pain before she squashed it with Starfleet training.

"Five hours is a long time for comm. silence. The mission should have only taken a short while." she muttered to herself. The need to do something, anything, was very great. Five hours, how much longer could she afford to wait to hear from the away team? They would have signaled for beam out if they were seriously threatened. Unless they were hit too quickly. The very idea that his team had been wiped out was more than she could face. But, given the circumstances it was possible.

No. It was useless to jump to any conclusions. She glanced at the chronometer. "Set a countdown from my mark, Harry. One hour from now." She would give him that much more time to complete his mission. In the meantime she would try not to loose her mind in worry.

"Janeway to Tuvok."

"Tuvok here, Captain. Am I to assume that your contact means you are back on duty?"

"Yes, a logical conclusion, my friend. What is the status with the prisoners?"

"I have just completed a profitable debriefing of the intruders. I am preparing my report now."

"Report to my Ready Room when you finish, I am anxious to see what you have found. Janeway out."

Kathryn crossed the deck and sat in her command chair. "Bridge to Engineering."

"Torres here, Captain."

"How's it coming down there, B'Elanna?"

"Very well, Captain. Most of the weapons damage is minor and internal. The Flek weapons are designed more to damage the body than to damage walls and power conduits. The hull breaches have been sealed. They will hold until we can find a location to make final repairs."

Janeway nodded, glad that something was going right. She passed the remaining minutes until Tuvok's arrival checking in with each department. When Tuvok entered the Bridge she led him to her Ready Room, she was anxious to hear his report, not only was it terribly important but it would keep her mind occupied.

"Can you give me any idea of why these people attacked us, Tuvok?"

The Vulcan took the seat opposite her desk and steepled his fingers. "As Commander Chakotay reported after his initial contact with their civilization, the Flek are a strict military society." He pretended not to notice the flinch Chakotay's name caused her. "Their social structure has nearly stagnated in its rigidity. Apparently the only way to gain social advancement is military conquest. This leads to pirating of shipping lanes, constant attacks and expansion into the surrounding star systems, and internal rebellion. These conditions are not unfamiliar to our experience, the Klingons, Cardassians and other Alpha Quadrant societies use them as well. The unique aspect of this civilization is the method it employs in its combat."

"Specifics, Tuvok" demanded Janeway as she leaned back in her chair.

The Vulcan was unruffled by her impatience. "The chief method of attack employed in this sector is a method we would consider terrorism. The taking of hostages, particularly children, is considered an honorable form of war. Children are taken, and killed if necessary to secure the subjugation of each enemy."

Kathryn sat in stunned silence as his words sank in. It was hard to imagine a world which valued life so cheaply, especially the lives of their children. How could anyone accept a system that placed their children in such danger every day?

"Captain?" called Tuvok.

Janeway realized that she had missed the last few minutes of Tuvok's report. She leaned forward and looked at her friend in dismay. "What sort of monsters are these Flek. I can't imagine anything more demented than the willing sacrifice of their children."

"Indeed, the logic of such a strategy is unclear to me," responded the Vulcan, Janeway realized that she was probably the only person who would detect the indignation the idea sparked in her stoic friend.

"So, that was the Flek objective in boarding Voyager? To seize our children and commandeer the ship."

Tuvok nodded. "The ploy had always served them well. They were surprised by our resistance. They do not normally encounter such a focused and savage response to their tactics."

"How could anyone not defend their child with savageness?"

Before Tuvok could respond her communicator beeped. "Kim to Captain Janeway."

"Yes, Harry

"Captain, we're receiving a hail from the first enemy ship."

Janeway stood quickly and headed for the door. "On my way." She tried not to loose her grip on her command protocol. This was a telling moment. Who was hailing her, her husband or the terrorists who had taken him from her?

Crossing the Bridge she swallowed her fear and straitened her stance. She would handle this, no matter what waited for her, she was Kathryn Janeway, Starfleet Captain. Captain Janeway nodded to Harry, "On screen."

"Hello Captain."

"Commander." she was sure that everyone on both ships could hear the relief in her voice, but she really didn't care. "What's going on over there, five hours is a long time to maintain communication silence."

"My apologies, Captain. It was necessary. Is the situation on Voyager stable?"

She nodded knowing he must be terribly worried about Kol. "We have the situation well in hand."

"The Flek ship is secure. I believe that I have convinced their Captain that a settlement of hostilities is preferable than the current situation. Permission to beam back aboard?"

"Granted, I am interested to hear your report."

Chakotay smiled at her and she felt her knees water. She bit her lip in an attempt to control the giddy sense of relief she felt at seeing him whole and healthy. There would be time to welcome him home later.

"Are you alright?" asked Chakotay as soon as they were alone in her Ready Room. His eyes had widened in concern as soon as he had seen her pale skin and bandaged arm, but the transporter room had not been the place to ask.

"I'll be fine. I took a hit to the arm from a Flek rifle, but the doc fixed it." she waved away his concern more interested at the moment in finding out what had happened during his mission. "What happened?"

"They were completely disoriented when we did not attack their habitat decks. We made the standard run on the Bridge, and they were totally unprepared. I initiated the comm silence to prevent their calling the other ship for help. They mounted a counter attack, but it was only a matter of time before we could overcome their positions."

"All without losing any crew? You did a good job."

He smiled. "This kind of thing is old hat for the Maquis. And seven years on this ship has made them a far more disciplined and organized team. It was almost like old times." The smile disappeared as he shifted the conversation. "How did things go here? I learned some very disturbing things about Flek culture over there."

"If you learned that they are demonic beings with a warped sense of values then you learned as much as I did. They spread out from engineering in an attempt to distract us. The main body of their force assaulted and captured the Children's Center. Tuvok, B'Elanna and I rescued the children, and Baxter and his security force captured the deck. They found their tactics didn't work well on my ship."

"Any casualties?"

Kathryn could see the concern in his eyes, not just for Kol, but for all the children of Voyager. "No, everyone came through just fine. Everyone except the Flek. B'Elanna killed three of them in hand to hand combat."

"Good."

Kathryn was a little surprised at the savage nature of his reaction, he was normally such a gentle man. But as she recalled her own fear at Kol's danger she understood. "How did you convince the Flek Commander to accept your terms?"

Chakotay snorted. "I had to nearly kill every member of his crew, but he finally realized he couldn't win. He is a young Captain and saw this as his one chance at true success. Voyager would be a valuable prize, and apparently the capture of a previously unconquered species is quite a coup. He couldn't resist the temptation we presented."

"Did you have any terms of surrender?"

"No, they simply agreed to let us go if we would not blow their warp core. It was the only thing I was really interested in."

"Will the other ship abide by this Captain's surrender?"

Chakotay nodded. "They are a subjugated sect. They are required to follow his orders until such a time that they prove themselves worthy of more responsibility."

Janeway scowled, "You mean until they have killed enough children."

Chakotay sighed. "I don't claim to understand their culture. I don't think that I could even with hundreds of years of study instead of a few hours. Let's just unload the prisoners you took and get the hell away from this rancid sector of space."

She nodded in agreement. "The ship is as ready for travel as it is going to be, we'll need to stop as soon as possible and finish repairs. I'll have Harry find a nice quiet planet to land on, I think everyone would like a chance to relax. You handle the transfer of prisoners, I'm under doctor's orders to rest. Normally I would postpone my recovery until I had talked with the other Captain directly, but I have no desire to see such a monstrous face."

Chakotay reached out and touched her cheek. "Are you alright?"

She kissed his fingers. "I will be as soon as I pick up Kol."

Part 8

Kathryn swirled the water as it flowed over her body. She closed her eyes and let the tension and fatigue drain away. It had been a week since they had left the Flek. A week of high warp away from an area of space that the crew had been anxious to escape. A week of watching their back to prevent anymore attacks. After all that guarded vigilance the hot water and cool night air felt wonderful. She stretched, her arm no longer disturbed her, in fact the Doctor had pronounced her good as new just this morning.

"Penny for your thoughts." called Chakotay quietly.

Kathryn smiled without opening her eyes. "They haven't made pennies in centuries."

"I'm sure I could replicate one. Come on what are you thinking." She felt his hand glide along her leg, the sensation sent chills up her spine even in the warm water.

"I was just thinking what an enlightened culture the Brenins have. Any culture that believes in daily baths is highly advanced."

"I was just admiring their belief in tubs big enough for two. And the fact that they put them outside is a stroke of genius. Kind of reminds me of another outdoor tub I remember seeing somewhere."

She opened her eyes and looked into his gaze. "A larger tub does have its advantages." She raised up and rolled over him brushing her lips against his. The cool night air made her wet shoulders and breasts steam. "Maybe we could modify the tub in our quarters?"

Chakotay chuckled. "Maybe, the Holodeck is always an option too." As he spoke his hands slid up to cup her shoulders, his hot hands a welcome contrast to her cooling skin.

"Do you think they would mind if we..."

"Right here in their tub?"

She shrugged, "A little excitement is always good."

Kathryn could actually see him blushing. "Kathryn, we are in the middle of the city's bath gardens. It might be a bad idea to get kicked off the planet before the repairs to Voyager are complete."

"Are you sure? You seem to be enjoying yourself very much."

"I am, but I'm not willing to try and explain to the local authorities what we were doing if we get caught."

Kathryn kissed him forcefully, making sure he realized the depth and immediacy of her desire. "Well, let's get back to the ship then. I know you won't turn me down in our own quarters."

"I may not turn you down in the corridors."

Kathryn shot him a horrified look. "You wouldn't."

Her husband burst into laughter. "Kathryn, you were just willing to have your way with me in the middle of this city's most traditional setting. Now you're worried about a little open affection on our own ship?"

"Loving you amid a sea of strangers is one thing, showing such a disregard for protocol on my own ship is another."

"I know, but I do love to keep you on your toes."

"Not funny, Commander."

"I apologize Captain. Are you still interested in displaying some affection in private?"

"Always."

When they beamed back aboard the ship was quiet. Shore leave and Beta shift combined to make the halls uncharacteristically deserted. Chakotay took the opportunity to play with the Captain's posterior as they walked to their quarters.

"Will you stop that!"

"There's no one here to see it, Captain. Besides, after an hour in the tub with you I can hardly be expected to ignore you."

Chakotay went straight to their room while Kathryn thanked Kes for staying with Kol.

"Did you enjoy the planet, Captain?"

"Very much, thank you Kes. Have you tried the public baths in the Capitol city? I highly recommend them."

"I might try them tomorrow, I have some leave left. Good night Captain."

"I didn't think she was ever going to leave," whispered Chakotay from the bedroom door.

"You should be more quiet, she's telepathic you know."

He crossed the room and scooped her into his arms. "Kes would understand my impatience," he said as he carried her into their bed.

He lay her down and began to strip the light dress she wore away from her shoulders. "You really are impatient," she chuckled as he slipped the dress past her hips and tossed it to the floor.

"You shouldn't spend an hour teasing me in a warm bath."

"Who was teasing?"

Conversation became much less of a priority for the next hour or so.

Chakotay awoke sometime in the middle of the night to find her gone. He rose and found her quietly watching Kol sleep.

"What's wrong?" he whispered.

"Nothing, I've just had a little trouble relaxing my guard over him since the attack. I've gotten up each night just to make sure he is still here, safe in his own bed. I know it's silly, but I can't stop. It's like checking his breathing or making sure he has enough blanket, or making sure Harvey is next to him in case he wakes up."

He wrapped his arms around her and she eagerly snuggled into his body. As always the stray thought of how well their bodies connected shot through her mind.

"Kathryn, he's fine. You protected him, he and the other children were never in any real danger. Each member of this crew would gladly sacrifice their lives for any of our children."

"Chakotay, they are so helpless. Sometimes I don't know how to handle it, the responsibility seems too great. I marvel at the Captain's of Galaxy Class ships. How do they balance the family needs of their crew against the duties of their ship?"

"As I recall Picard was highly opposed to the inclusion of children on Galaxy class ships, but after a few years I think I remember reading a paper he wrote on the value of such a complement for deep space vessels." He chuckled quietly. "You don't get more deep-space than Voyager."

Kathryn looked at the small boy asleep before her. "He is so perfect, Chakotay. I am so overwhelmed by the emotions he stirs in me: love, pride, fear, panic, joy, they are more powerful than I could ever have imagined. What did I ever do to deserve him?"

"Nothing, everything. He has to be perfect, Kathryn, he is a reflection of you. Have I thanked you lately for giving me my son?"

She turned around, "Many times, but you can say it again if you want."

"Thank you Kathryn Janeway for giving me my son. He is our souls, our spirits and our love. He is our future together."

Kathryn sighed and hugged him tightly. "Chakotay, I didn't like the fear I found inside me when I thought the Flek were going to hurt him. It was the most overwhelming fear I have ever felt." She pulled away and stepped back a step. "I can control the fear I feel when I order you into a dangerous situation, my training has prepared me to accept the sacrifice of friends and lovers. But nothing could have prepared me for the danger he faced. Does that make me a poor Captain?"

His eyes blazed with love and conviction. "No, I understand your fear. I felt it too, and it doesn't make us less fit to command this crew. It makes us more dedicated, more intent on finding a safe way to return us to the Alpha Quadrant. It makes us stronger."

She smiled at him, falling in love with this man had been the most intelligent thing she had ever done. She would like to believe that it had been an intellectual decision, but she knew it had not been. Her heart had leapt far ahead before the rest of her were even aware. "Let's go to bed."

They walked to their own room hand in hand. "I love you Chakotay."

"I know, and you know I love you too."

Finis.