Rite of Intrusion
rating: R
Jackee (Jackeec@aol.com)
Emily (EMeyer5650@aol.com)
Christina (CWilson980@aol.com)

Disclaimer: Paramount is god--why even George Lucas opened all 3 Indiana
films with their logo as part of the scenery. <g> Back to the point. They
own the characters, the ship etc. We're just playing.
*********


     "Captain," Tom said as she entered the bridge. "Sensors are picking up
a ship."
     She nodded, as she moved to her chair with a groan. Not exactly how
she wanted to spend her day off.
     Tom smiled slightly, noticing the blue paint on her right thumb. He
hadn't wanted to call her, but her instructions had been specific about
that. And with the Commander working with Tuvok on a new security protocol.
"It's a small freighter. It's not responding to our hails."
     "Thanks." She looked at the data. "No sign of a distress call?"
     Tom shook his head as he responded, "No. Life-signs are very weak."
     "Plot an intercept course--yellow alert."
     "Yes ma'am. Time to intercept two minutes."
     Chakotay and Tuvok stepped off the turbo-lift and looked around. The
commander frowned at the sight of the Captain. Damn, just when they had
finally convinced her to take some time off...He glared at Tom--who noticed
the angry look and shrugged.
     Tuvok looked at the incoming data at his station. "There are no other
ships in the vicinity, but there is a inhabited class-M planet forty-five
thousand kilometers straight ahead."
     Janeway nodded as she watched her First Officer sit down. "Advise the
Doctor to expect a casualty, Mr. Tuvok."
     "Yes Captain, I have also assigned a security team to be present."
     "Very good. Mr. Paris, bring us to one kilometer and hold."
     Tom nodded as he brought Voyager near the lone ship.
     "Captain," Tuvok spoke again, one brow raised in perplexity. "I'm
receiving a strange reading from the ship's hull."
     "Strange how, Mr. Tuvok?" Janeway questioned.
     "There is an inverse distortion field surrounding the entire ship." No
sooner did the words leave the Vulcan's lips than Voyager began to shake.
     Janeway grasped the arms of her command chair, looking toward her
Vulcan friend in askance. "Is there more, Mr. Tuvok? Now would be the
time."
     "If my calculations are correct," Tuvok widened his stance so as to
stabilize himself against the vibrations being felt all over the ship. "As
we draw nearer the ship, the larger the increase in the distortion field.
We will in effect shake ourselves to pieces."
     "All right. Mr. Paris, back us off," Janeway turned toward the view
screen, gazing intently at the little ship that had once seemed so
helpless.
     "Life signs are decreasing, Captain," Chakotay spoke from his own
console.
     "Can we use the transporter to beam the pilot out?" she spoke in the
direction of her first officer. Tuvok responded.
     "The distortion field would prevent us from gaining a solid lock."
     Chakotay turned suddenly toward the Vulcan. "We can't beam anything
out, but can we beam someone in?"
     Both Vulcan brows raised. "An interesting suggestion, Commander, and
quite correct. It would be within acceptable safety parameters to beam one
person unto the alien craft."
     "Captain, request permission to..." Chakotay turned to the captain.
     "Go, Commander. We'll keep an open comm channel."
     Her eyes followed his retreating form as he made his way to the
turbolift, and she called after him as he prepared to step on, "Chakotay
one more thing."
     "Yes, captain?"
     "Be careful."
     "I always am, Captain." There was almost a finality to the sound of
the door sliding shut, and Kathryn wished she could believe that this
mission was going to be like the others.
     "Tuvok, I'll be in my ready room."
     "Aye Captain."
     She activated her personal computer terminal and called up the view of
the endangered ship. It looked so normal, so benign. She was about to tap
her comm-badge to ask Chakotay how he was, when she was enveloped by the
familiar buzz of a transporter beam.
     As she her senses cleared she looked up and realized that she was in a
cell. On the ground. At Chakotay's feet. She sat upright and looked at her
first officer. "Perhaps you better tell me what I'm doing here."
     He leaned over and offered her his hand and helped her to her feet.
"Not exactly my idea of an invitation either," he said with a smirk.
     "What?" She looked up at him, her anger starting to surface.
"Commander, what the hell is going on?"
     He shrugged his shoulders. "I beamed onto the ship, near the pilot and
found myself here." He shook his head as she reached for her comm-badge.
"I've tried."
     "Janeway to Voyager..." There was nothing, only the slight echo of her
voice off the walls.
~~
     Tuvok looked up from the console when he heard the turbo-lift doors
opened. "Lieutenant?"
     B'Elanna looked around. "I'm looking for the Captain."
     "She's in her ready-room."
     "Thanks," she smiled and winked at Tom as she passed the young pilot.
She pressed the door chime. She pressed it again. "Computer locate Captain
Janeway."
     The entire bridge crew heard the computer's response.
~~
     Kathryn looked around the cell. It wasn't very big. She walked over to
the door and carefully examined the locking mechanism. "I presume phasers
aren't working either." She didn't expect an answer but continued her
exploration.
     There was a sound of metal on metal, she felt Chakotay's hands on her
shoulders pulling her back from the door.
     It didn't open but a mechanical voice spoke. "I am R.E. Two. Welcome
to the Winds."
~~
     "Ensign Kim, conduct a sensor sweep for Captain Janeway," Tuvok
ordered.
     "Aye," Kim responded, fingers flying across the console. "There are no
lifesigns aboard the alien vessel," he announced almost immediately. "And
the inverse distortion field has dropped."
     "No life signs?" Tuvok inquired.
     Kim responded after a slight hesitation. "There is some sort of
interference. Adjusting scanners to compensate."
     "Lt. Paris, engage tractor beam on the alien vessel and set course for
the planet, full impulse."
~~~
     "I'm Captain Kathryn Janeway of the Federation Starship Voyager,"
Janeway announced in response to the voice. "Why did you bring us to this
place?"
     A musical chime filled the air as a different, a feminine voice
spoke.. "We wish to speak to the Significant Other."
     Kathryn frowned and looked toward her first officer, who despite the
situation was stifling a smile. Surely these people didn't think...?
Abandoning the idea before it could settle in too firmly, she turned back
toward the door. "Other?"
     "He who has taken the Rite of Intrusion. We wish to speak to him. He
is the Significant Other."
     Kathryn's eyes widened as she realized the intended meaning of the
words. With a slight gesture she stepped aside from the door.
     Chakotay's eyes shot to hers in askance. It wasn't everyday that an
alien race beamed the Captain and the first officer off the ship into a
cell only to tell the captain that it was really the second in command they
wanted to speak to, not even in the delta quadrant.
     "I'm Commander Chakotay of the Federation Starship Voyager," he
announced at her nod of assent. "I must ask as well, Why have you brought
us here?"
     "Commander Chakotay of the Federation Starship Voyager, do you accept
the Significant One? And do you accept this one as your witness?"
     "I don't understand," Chakotay replied. "We are not familiar with your
customs. Our home is--" Suddenly the door slid open to reveal a slight,
blue-skinned humanoid dressed in a flowing white robe.
     "I am Y'tfel, the betrothed of Asil," she introduced herself with a
slight bow. "Welcome to our family." Taking his right hand and placing it
on her left shoulder, she sang a phrase the universal translator did not
translate.
     When the woman placed her hand on Chakotay's heart, Kathryn stiffened.
She wasn't sure she liked the direction this was taking; though the gesture
could have been a simple greeting, there was an unmistakable air of
intimacy about the interchange.
     "Do not fear," the woman spoke in her direction. "He has been found
acceptable."
     Kathryn's eyes met Chakotay's. His were filled with assurance and a
note of curiosity at whatever ceremony the young alien woman was
performing.
     After singing another phrase, the young woman bowed again and dropped
her hands to her sides. Another, taller alien entered the room.
     "I am Asil," he announced with a nod of his head. He then moved toward
Kathryn and gathered her into his arms.
     She willed herself to relax...not wanting to risk an interstellar
incident...and soon a sense of warmth and peace enveloped her..."Yes," the
alien whispered rather seductively into her ear, "yes, you will do just
fine." He unfastened her hairclip and began to run his hands through her
hair sending it cascading down her back.
     Chakotay stood at the edge of the cell, clenching and unclenching his
fists. He thought the aliens understood. He and Kathryn, well, he and
Kathryn, were...close, and now this alien was taking a few too many
liberties.
     "Commandant! Commandant!!" Another alien, this one with light gold
skin, came running down the hall, and Asil let go of Kathryn to turn toward
the source of the interruption.
     "What?!" He hissed through clenched teeth.
     "Commandant our ship is moving!"
     "WHAT!!!??!" He grabbed his betrothed by the wrist, and took off
running down the hall, clanging the cell door shut once again on the human
couple.
~~
     "Lieutenant," Harry called out. "The alien ship is powering up."
     "Hail them," Tuvok said as he glanced at the incoming data.
     "No response sir." Harry's finger flew over his console as he adjusted
the strength of the tractor beam. The ship shook slightly. "Sir, they are
trying to break free of the tractor beam."
~~
     Kathryn looked at Chakotay, then quickly glanced away. She bent down
to pick up her clip and started to put her hair up. She gave up after
several tries. "Damn," she muttered, pushing her hair off her face. She
wouldn't get far without a comb and brush. *This whole situation was
strange.*
     "Strange is part of the job..." She heard Chakotay chuckle behind her
and realized she had spoken aloud. "And I like your hair down."
     She turned and glared at him. "This is not appropriate. We don't know
what's going on. Our ship is in danger..."
     "Kath...Captain, I don't think they mean harm..."
     "They don't mean harm!?" Her voice sounded harsh. "Kidnapping us...and
what was all that touchy-feely stuff?"
     Chakotay didn't answer. He wondered at their different reactions. He
sensed the aliens didn't mean any harm...Perhaps it was the way Asil had
touched her...
     The silence was broken by the sound of footsteps outside the door and
Y'tfel's golden voice spoke. "You have passed the Rite of Intrusion." The
door opened. "You are safe. When the ceremony is complete you will be
returned to your ship. Please contact your ship and advise them of this.
They will ruin everything if they continue."
     Chakotay spoke first, Janeway gave him a look which he ignored. "Rite
of Intrusion? Ceremony? We need more information."
     Y'tfel smiled. "My betrothed and I are to be married in two sunrises.
You have been selected to be our witnesses. Please..." she begged.
     Kathryn nodded as she tapped her comm-badge. "Janeway to Voyager."
     After Kathryn had noted Tuvok's protests to the Captain and First
Officer being off the ship without security, they'd discussed check-in
times. She hadn't come to this decision lightly. Voyager's sensors were
having difficulty penetrating the planet's atmosphere due purely to natural
phenomena, and as she didn't think these people were out to do them any
harm, save the earlier bit of fondling, Kathryn decided she would take a
wait and see attitude. Voyager would remain in orbit around Rae'Bierna
until the ceremony was complete.
     "Follow me, please," Y'tfel smiled when Kathryn had closed her comm
channel to Voyager. The trio was engulfed in a transporter beam and
reappeared in a brightly lit corridor. The floor was inlaid with geometric
designs of some polished alabaster stone. Y'tfel's soft shoes padded
soundlessly along.
     "We hope that you will be comfortable here," she gestured to an oval
entranceway with a filmy curtain beyond. "You will find more appropriate
attire for the ceremony." With that she pulled back the curtain, and led
them in.
     The room was lavishly decorated in a silken material. A warm fire
burned in one corner of the room, and a large window over looked a pond. An
arch at each end of the main room bore curtains of the same filmy material
as the first and led off into other rooms.
     "Refreshments will be along shortly," Y'tfel said to Chakotay with a
mysterious smile. "I hope you enjoy them. In the meantime, your clothing is
in the room beyond," she gestured to the nearer arch. "The other leads to
the balcony." With a final smile at Chakotay, she turned and left.
     Chakotay returned Y'tfel's smile and watched as she glided gracefully
from the room. He turned to Kathryn, and immediately noted the guarded look
in her glance before she turned her back and headed for the closer of the
curtained entry ways. He sobered.
     "Kathryn, I think these Rae'Biernan's are at least slightly
telepathic."
     "Why do you say that, Chakotay?" she asked, glancing back only briefly
before continuing.
     "Let me just say I now know that the refreshments are enhanced for
pleasure."
     Kathryn froze midstride and turned. "She told you that?" she asked.
     "Not in so many words, but that was the sense of it, yes."
     "Well, why didn't she just say it out loud so we could both hear?"
Kathryn was genuinely confused.
     Chakotay simply smiled and shrugged. It probably wasn't a good idea to
tell her that Y'tfel had given the refreshments as a gift to him, and that
Kathryn wasn't meant to know.
     Seeing that no answer was forthcoming, Kathryn continued on toward the
room, Chakotay on her heels. "I guess we'd better change for the ceremony."
     The curtain slid away to reveal one large room containing one very
large bed covered in silken sheets and pillows. In one corner of the room
was a sunken tube cut out of the same rock as the halls. Lying across the
bed was an outfit that Kathryn was having a very difficult time finding
acceptable.
     "Chakotay, I can't wear that..." She gestured to the dress. The
material was quite luxurious, a goldenrod colored silk brocade, but that
didn't remove the fact that it had more cut out space than material. All of
the prerequisite parts were covered, but Kathryn knew that it would still
leave her feeling quite exposed.
     "Kathryn, we're not on Voyager, there's no one here to see you. For
the sake of diplomacy, can't you just let your hair down, and drop the
captain act for one evening?"
     This isn't an *act* Chakotay. This is who I am." He watched her in
silence, and she turned her back on him, holding the dress to her chest. "I
guess you'll never understand. I'm sorry if I can't live up to your
expectations."
     "Now you just hold it right there Kathryn." He put a hand on her
shoulder and spun her around. Let's get one thing straight. You are one
hell of a woman, more than I could ever have imagined. You meet, no exceed
whatever expectations I may have of you every day." He reached up and
stroked her jawline lightly with his thumb, "Don't forget that."
     She let her eyes glance at his and was startled by the intensity of
his expression. His eyes held her and his head tilted toward hers. She felt
herself tingle and she shivered slightly. With a great deal of effort she
took a step back and was able to breathe again. The spell was broken...for
the moment.
     "I..." Her voice was raspy. She started over, this time her voice
sounded more like herself. "I guess I can wear this...For the sake of
diplomacy." She looked around the room. "How much time do we have?"
     He stepped back and turned away with a wry grin. So close. "You
noticed the tub?" He chuckled. This was going to be a very interesting
stay.
     She was still bright red--she could feel the heat in her cheeks.
"I...um...yes I did. While it's not as nice as the one you made...It will
suffice." She looked around, "What will you be wearing?" She wasn't sure
she wanted to know.
     "A loinskin cloth?" He laughed at her deepening blush. "Something
similar to what Asil was wearing." He stepped toward the door. "Well I'd
best leave you..." He stepped out quickly before letting out a sigh.
     There was a gentle tap at the door. "Yes?" He called out.
     A young woman, younger than Y'tfel entered. She was wearing a flowing
dark blue gown that accentuated her pale blue skin. "Most honored
Significant One." She smiled at him...a smile that reminded him of Kes. "I
am I'rol. Asil's my brother." She was trying to be extremely formal. "I am
your guide. I..." She stopped when she couldn't remember her entire speech
and tried to hold back her tears of frustration. Chakotay realized that she
was only a child.
     He smiled at her. "I hope you are going to answer our questions?"
     The girl grinned at him, thankfully. "You won't tell my brother that I
blew my lines?"
     Chakotay shook his head. "It will be our secret."
     "And your witness?"
     Chakotay indicated the bedroom. "She's taking a bath."
     Her grin grew bigger, "And you stay here?"
     Chakotay had to fight not to laugh outright at I'rol's comment. "It
was very difficult, but I managed," he whispered conspiratorially.
     "Ohh," the little girl smiled as if she truly understood. "Shall I
bring your refreshments?" she continued with a wink.
     "That would be nice if you could make it the unenhanced version," he
gestured toward the bedroom. "I don't think she approves."
     She closed her eyes in quiet concentration for a moment. "It is done,"
she dimpled up at him. "And now, you have questions?" she gestured him
toward a pillowed lounge.
     "Yes," Chakotay nodded sitting amongst the surprisingly firm cushions.
"We are not familiar with your customs. So we really don't know what's to
be expected of us."
     "Understandable," I'rol replied. "It is very unusual that the Rite of
Intrusion is initiated, and when it does it is a great honor, both to the
Significant One and the bonding pair. As Significant One you will began the
Third Dance."
     "Third Dance?" Chakotay spoke up, he certainly hoped it wouldn't be
too complicated. Though he enjoyed dancing, he knew that cultures such as
the Nerozians had dance rituals that lasted for hours without ever
repeating a move.
     "Yes, I will teach you," I'rol smiled to put him at ease. "It is very
simple and is...very natural for a man and a woman. You understand?"
     Chakotay's eyes widened. What dance that was natural for a man and
woman could this little girl teach him.
     "Do not worry," I'rol laughed. "It is not what you think. *That* is
the First Dance, the most sacred danced, to be performed only by One and
his beloved. You and your witness will lead the Third Dance tonight.
Tomorrow Asil and Y'tfel will lead the Second Dance, and on the day of the
bonding the First Dance is to be performed."
     Chakotay nodded his understand, but he still had another question.
"Are we, my witness and I to join in the First Dance?" This was a question
he had to have the answer to. If Kathryn thought that something like that
would be expected of her: if there was a compression phaser riffle to be
had she'd find it.
     I'rol studied him for a moment. "The First Dance is a very private
thing. There are those who join in the spirit of the Dance."
     Chakotay waited for further explanation but there was none
forthcoming. "Does Kathryn...my witness need to be present to learn the
Third Dance?"
     "No, I trust that you will teach her all she needs to know," she said
as she stood. "Now, come, lie on the floor so that I can teach you the
dance."
     "Lie...on...the floor?"
     "Yes, right there will be fine." She pointed to a spot in the center
of room.
     He lay on his back, his arms straight at his side. "No, you must
relax. Roll over." He complied and she began to massage his neck and
shoulders. "Feel the energy centering in your body. Feel your worries being
lifted away. On my planet we say, 'Atatam anukah.' no worries." She
continued to knead his muscles, and he could feel his tension floating
away.
     After a few minutes, she stopped. "Good you are sufficiently relaxed.
You can learn the third dance now."
She lay on the floor next to him--a fraction of an inch away from him. Take
my hand. He reached out, tentatively, was this child really trying to
seduce him?
     "Find a spot on the ceiling and focus on it."
     He complied, but at the same time, asked, "I'rol, exactly what sort of
a dance is this?"
     "The third dance is a dance of the spirits. You will meditate.
Focusing on your love for each other--the dance is complete when your
spirits join on a metaphysical plane."
     "That's not going to be so easy I'rol."
     "She looked confused. I'm sorry--is your species incapable of
meditation?"
     "No, but...we..."
     "Then you can learn the dance, now no more questions. Concentrate on a
spot on the ceiling, and let your mind wander. Think of your love for your
mate."
     He imagined Kathryn's eyes, sparkling in their conviction when she
announced that she wasn't going to wear the dress. He imagined her in the
dress, beautiful, but nervous in her sexuality. He was going to enjoy
dancing the Third Dance with her.
     So intent on his thoughts that he didn't notice the young girl sit up.
I'rol smiled. Her brother had chosen well. This pair was most interesting
and would bring great luck to the ceremonies. She nodded to the servant who
slipped in with the refreshments. She grinned when she noticed a certain
pastry. When the servant left she grabbed it and stuffed it in her mouth.
     "I'rol?" Chakotay said as he sat up.
     "Here," she muttered between bites.
     He laughed when saw her, the crumbs around her mouth. She blushed and
wiped her mouth with her sleeve.
     "How long 'til the ceremony?"
     "Soon after the sunset, just before the moonrise. You can see the
setting sun from the balcony." She nodded toward the other door. "The
Priestess of the Song will start singing half way between sunset and
moonrise. You will be accompanied by the Bailec--the bearer of the gifts."
She turned and left quickly.
     "Kathryn," he called out as he looked over the plate of delicacies.
     From the other room, he heard her reply, "Yes, Commander."
     He frowned, she was going to try to keep this formal. "We have about
an hour before sunrise."
     "And?" Kathryn climbed out of the tub and grabbed the towel. She
smiled as she dried herself and looked at the dress.
     "The ceremony begins soon after that? I'rol was explaining what we are
expected to do."
     "Oh, is that who you were talking to. So *what* are we expected to
do." She slipped the dress on. It was less revealing than she thought, but
still more than she was comfortable with--especially with him around.
     "We lead the third dance. The refreshments are here. They're really
quite good." She heard him laugh. "The *unenhanced* version."
     Janeway sighed with relief. That was one problem solved. She looked at
herself in the polished glass. The material rustled as she twirled around.
The full skirt spreading out. The lack of underwear was going to
be...interesting though. The dress was quite flattering, she decided. Too
much...
     She threw the robe lying on the bed on and walked into the other room.
She noticed Chakotay's disappointed look at the sight of her in the plain
dark brown robe. She walked over to the food and examined it *very*
carefully before selecting a pastry. "What does the Third Dance entail?"
     "Its a meditative dance." He wasn't sure how much he wanted to explain
before the ceremony. "We lie on the floor and concentrate, focus on a spot
above us."
     She frowned, "Strange. Doesn't sound too difficult. Shouldn't you be
getting ready?"
     "Yes, you're probably right," Chakotay agreed, heading toward the
bedroom.
     Kathryn sank unto the lounge, and having finished her first very
delicious pastry, eyed another. There was also a warm golden liquid in
delicate cups on the outer rim of the tray. She decided to try the steaming
beverage. It went down wonderfully, but made her feel a bit too warm in the
heavy brown robe.
     Folding the garment in easy reach on the side of the lounge, she
called to her First Officer. "Since there's a Third Dance, is there a
second and a first?"
     "Yes," Chakotay called back. He'd really hoped she wouldn't get around
to asking that question. But now that it was out all he could do was hold
his breath and wait for her to ask the next logical question.
     "Well, what is the Second Dance?" Kathryn asked, wariness evident in
her voice. The fact that he was making her work for her answers was not
lost on her.
     "I didn't think to ask about the Second Dance," Chakotay replied
honestly as he eyed his outfit in the mirror. Whomever had selected the
clothing really had an eye. The dark trousers were a perfect fit, very
comfortable. Over the trousers was a long flowing sleeveless over-garment,
much like a long vest, made of the same material Asil had worn.
     "What about the First Dance," Kathryn called from her perch on the
lounge. The situation was getting the better of her, and she knew there was
something Chakotay didn't want to tell her. Especially if his mumbled reply
was any indication. Moving away from the lounge, she moved toward the
bedroom door.
     Chakotay stood, bare chested--except for the long vest--just inside
the bedroom door. He was carefully weighing his options. It wasn't as if
I'rol had requested they join in the First Dance. It was that Kathryn
simply would not like it.
     Having made up his mind, he pushed the curtain aside and stepped out
of the door...directly into Kathryn.
     Her hands came up against the bare skin of his (mostly hairless) bare
chest. He could feel the heat of her palms burning into him...
     Kathryn stepped back, crossed her arms, and then decided against it,
folding them behind her back in the traditional "at-ease" position. "You
look...nice," she said, walking past him into the other room.
     He followed her, as if in a trance. At that moment, the door to their
quarters opened and Asil stepped in. "Your garments fit suitably. I hope
that I'rol has sufficiently prepared you."
     "Yes," Chakotay responded "she has done an excellent job."
     "You and she will come with me now." He led the way out the door, and
Kathryn and Chakotay found themselves in a labyrinthine collection of
ornate halls, until they finally arrived in a ball room.
     Chakotay glanced quickly at Asil, who was looking a little nervous as
he left them standing there.
     "I thought you said we had more time...I hope there's going to be
food," Kathryn hissed at him. The smile on her face belied the tone of her
voice.
     "Isn't this exciting?" A young voice said from behind him.
     "Hello I'rol," Chakotay smiled at the young girl. "I'd like you to
meet Kathryn Janeway. Kathryn this is I'rol."
     "Ah, your witness. Look," the girl pointed to the richly dressed male
whom Asil was talking to. "That's Y'tfel's father. This is an important
match for our family, even if she is only the daughter of his third wife."
     "What's happening?" Kathryn asked quietly.
     "He never approved of the match. Which is why Asil evoked the Rite of
Intrusion. He can't stop it now." I'rol grinned. "I hear he was furious."
She looked around, no one else was near. "He hadn't planned on coming, so
it was a real surprise to Asil when he showed up fifteen minutes ago." She
slipped away when Asil approached with his future father-in-law.
     Kathryn felt Chakotay take her hand. She thought about pulling it away-
-things were already out of control--but decided against it.
     "My Lord," Asil said, "may I introduce Chakotay of Voyager, my
Significant One and his witness, Kathryn Janeway also of Voyager. His
Lordship, Anamou of Krijstee." The older alien nodded his head in
acknowledgment and continued out the door.
     Asil lingered a split second, "You must forgive my future father-in-
law. He never learned to be polite." Then he followed him out.
     Kathryn looked at Chakotay and shook her head. "We need to talk."
     "I don't think now is the time--the sun is setting." He escorted her
to a door leading outside.
     The colors were magnificent. The pinks, red, and oranges filled the
sky, with just a hint of purple.
     They stood there for a while admiring the change from day to night.
Something that didn't happen on a starship, except in a holodeck. And this
was better than any reproduction.
     From somewhere they heard singing.
     Both their eyes were drawn toward a balcony overlooking the scene. The
voice of the Singer of the Song careened with breathtaking beauty over the
assemblage.
     Chakotay caught a tug at his vest, and turned to find I'rol gesturing
out into the crowd. Having been caught off guard by the beauty of the song,
he'd nearly forgotten what he was to do.
     "What? Where are we going?" Kathryn whispered in his direction when he
pulled her forward.
     "We have to lead the dance," he murmured from the side of his mouth as
they stepped toward the parting crowd. A golden walkway leading to center
of the large amphitheater became visible. All eyes followed as they walked
to its center.
     "What?!" Kathryn wanted to balk. He would never have guessed that
someone so strong and in command could be so shy in front of what really
should have been just another crowd. But then, here she wasn't Captain
Kathryn Janeway, she was barely Kathryn, having most often been referred to
as *his* witness.
     He stopped, relinquished his hold on her hand and gave her the most
reassuring smile he knew how, pouring in all the love he felt for her as
well for good measure. Then gently taking her hand again he lead her to the
end of the walkway. The blossoming light in her eyes in response to his
smile would be enough to fuel his daydreams for weeks to come.
     When they reached the center he turned and faced her. "We have to lie
on the ground when the song if finished," he whispered. "Once there, we
must concentrate on," he paused, "each other."
     Kathryn blinked at his words, and a bit of color flooded her cheeks.
Her mouth clamped shut and her eyes slowly chilled. Oops. Perhaps he might
have used a better choice of words. He knew Kathryn felt something for him.
But airing those feelings publicly, when in all likelihood she hadn't even
admitted them to herself, just wasn't going to go over well.
     "Commander, what is this about?" she whispered stiffly.
     "No time," Chakotay murmured. The Song came to its end, and
immediately an instrument began to play. Both he and Kathryn sank to the
little palate that lay in the center. Kathryn resisted when he tried to
maintain a hold on her hand.
     "It's part of the ritual," he murmured, reaching for her hand again.
     "I don't..." Kathryn was cut off as Asil and Y'tfel spoke in unison.
     "It has begun..."
     Somewhere in the background a gong began to ring, slowly, regularly,
and Chakotay felt his consciousness growing more aware. He struggled to
focus on anything but the woman lying beside him on the platform, but he
knew it was in vain.
     Kathryn realized that she could no longer hear Chakotay breathing, and
was worried until she realized that it was because they were breathing in
sync with each other. "Count the breaths..." a voice chanted in the
background "focus on your other..."
     Chakotay turned to look into Kathryn's eyes and was pleased when she
did not look away. The world around him began to fade until all that he
could see clearly was Kathryn's eyes. Or were they his own? He couldn't be
sure. They were her crystal blue, but the love he saw there, could that
really be hers?
~~
     Someone touched him, "Chakotay. Wake-up..." A voice said.
     Chakotay blinked as consciousness returned, he could just make out the
beginning of the day on the horizon. He pulled his hand away from Kathryn's
waist and rubbed his eyes. "I'rol."
     She smiled at him. "My brother is very please, The Third Dance was
very beautiful...We have food for you. And I should explain the Second
Dance to you." Her grin grew, "Even Y'tfel's father was pleased, and I
thought nothing could please him." She stood up. "Do wake Kathryn, she's
probably hungry too." Still smiling, she pointed to a tray she had placed
on the ground earlier. Then she ran off.
     Chakotay looked over at the woman who had ended up sleeping in his
arms. "Kathryn," he whispered gently. He reached out and touched her
shoulder, "It's morning."
     There was a groan as rolled away from the touch. "I don't want to..."
She muttered, then opened her eyes in surprise. "Morning?"
     Chakotay nodded, the morning sky was all ready brighter. "I'rol
brought us breakfast."
     She looked around, rubbed her eyes and looked back at him. They were
guarded, the usual steely blue *Captain's eyes,* revealing nothing. "We
spent the night here?" A bit of puzzlement entered her expression. "I don't
remember much. We lay down, there was a gong in the background...I..."
     He smiled. "I don't either. But apparently we were a hit...Maybe we
should take this Dance on tour." He laughed gently at her steely glare,
that melted in amusement.
     "I don't think so...Did I hear mention *food*?"
     "Uh huh. I'rol brought us some. Maybe we could take it up to our
quarters and clean-up too."
     Kathryn laughed. "That would be agreeable. When is this Second Dance?"
She looked at him curiously, "And what is it?"
     Chakotay looked away, "I haven't been told..."
     "But you know something?"
     Chakotay looked back at Kathryn, weighing his words. "A little. I'rol
told me that the Second Dance will be tonight, and the First Dance will be
the day of the bonding."
     "As far as wedding rituals go, I'd say these folks are pretty
elaborate. And whatever we did last night..." she let the words trail off.
"I can't imagine what they could do to top that." Glancing around at the
thinning crowd of finely dressed guests she had to stifle a laugh.
"Although you have to admit, they do have a flair."
     "That they do," Chakotay agreed, leading her through the crowd and
back along the walkway, food tray balanced in one arm. "What sort of
wedding would you like to have?"
     "Me?" Kathryn looked over at him with a laugh. "Nothing like this,"
she gestured around at the remnants of the night's festivities. "Something
as extravagant as this would leave me a nervous wreak. My cousin had a big
wedding, everything you could imagine going wrong went wrong. Oh Chakotay,
it was terrible. No, I'd like something a bit more sedate, more intimate."
     "I'm sure that can be arranged," Chakotay said with a wicked grin as
he pushed back the curtain that led to their rooms.
     Kathryn laughed out right as she stepped into the room. "What?
Chakotay what are you talking about? Are you volunteering to plan my
wedding...should I ever GET married, that is."
     Chakotay's smile faded. His eyes focused intensely on hers. "Yes. I'd
do it in a heartbeat."
     Kathryn froze. "Chakotay are you...?" Then she clamped her mouth shut.
Surely he couldn't mean...a voice at the entry way cut into her thoughts.
     "Chakotay, Kathryn," I'rol called from the door. "I've come to bring
your clothing for the day. But first you must join the family for the
morning bath ritual..."
     Kathryn's head shot up, "Bath Ritual?!?"
     "Yes; it is customary for those involved in the joining to participate
in a ritual bath on the morning before the Second Dance."
     Kathryn was nonplused, "what exactly happens in this bath ritual."
     I'rol looked at Kathryn the way an instructor would a particularly
dense student, "we bathe."
     Kathryn blushed, *ask a silly question...* "I mean, uh, who will be
there."
     "Me, Y'tfel, Asil..." I'rol rattled off a list of names, concluding
with, "and you two, of course"
     "Of course," Kathryn muttered under her breath.
     I'rol handed each of them some folded material. "You need to change
into these and then I'll show you to the bath-house."
     Chakotay gestured to the curtained partition indicating that Kathryn
should take it while he changed in the main room. She gratefully mouthed a
"thanks," before slipping behind the divider.
     Chakotay watched her re-emerge in stunned silence. The scanty form
fitting dress had been replaced by a robe made of loose diaphanous material
that left just enough to the imagination. "Kathryn, you...you...you look...
incredible."
     She smiled, "Likewise Chakotay, and made I add, you've got great
legs."
     Whereas Kathryn's robe fell to her ankles, Chakotay's ended a little
under midway down his thighs. Which left his well muscled legs quite open
to Kathryn's admiration.
     "Come," I'rol said, "the baths are soon to begin."
     The bath-house was steamy and dimly lit, for which Chakotay was
grateful. He did not know how well he would be able to control his reaction
to the fact that a very naked Kathryn Janeway was seated next to him.
     He was amazed at how calmly she had handled everything. Although he
knew that she had misgivings, she had gone through it all, including the
disrobing with a diplomatic aplomb that would have done StarFleet proud.
     "You know Chakotay," Kathryn purred while an alien, who'd introduced
herself as N'elelco, worked spices and oils into her hair. "This is quite
relaxing."
     "Maybe you could turn it into a holoprogram"
     She laughed. It was a dark, musical sound. "I'm sure it would win
Tom's seal of approval."
     She didn't notice Chakotay shift his weight uncomfortably as he
murmured, "That it would, Kathryn. That it would."
     All too soon for Kathryn, and not soon enough for Chakotay, a gong
sounded the end of the ceremony. The pair returned to their quarters, and
were met by I'rol who presented them with their promised change of clothing
and another tray of delicacies.
     Kathryn eyed the tray suspiciously, "What do you think Chakotay; are
they safe?"
     I'rol giggled. "Yes, they are safe." She grabbed one. "They won't let
me eat the other ones...So, what are you doing today?"
     Kathryn grinned, as she looked at the clothes I'rol had handed her.
Very casual. That was a relief...considering everything..."Do?"
     "The day is yours, the Second Dance again begins at moonrise." I'rol
said as she ate her pastry. She wiped the crumbs from her mouth. "Though
you will probably want to sleep this afternoon."
     "What do you suggest?" Chakotay asked as he stepped into the bedroom
to change.
     I'rol smiled as she looked around the room. "The markets are pretty
interesting...Or you could borrow two stifarns and go for a ride in the
hills. I've got to go..."
     Kathryn stopped her, "What happens during the Second Dance."
     The girl grinned. "It is the dance of bonding. You will chaperone my
brother and Y'tfel...Tomorrow morning is the First Dance. They are bonded.
Chakotay asked about that dance. You don't have to participate if you don't
want to." She kept grinning as she skipped out of the room.
     Kathryn smiled after I'rol, puzzling over her last statement. Turning
toward the bedroom door, she could hear Chakotay going about the business
of getting dressed. Now was as good a time as any to check in with Tuvok.
     Chakotay could hear Tuvok's curt Vulcan tones as he gave his status
report. They had as yet been unable to do any detailed scans beyond the
planet's atmosphere. A shuttle craft could be dispatched and reach the
surface in a matter of minutes, and once within the outer atmosphere,
sensor sweeps would return to optimal efficiency.
     He stepped into the outer chamber to find that Kathryn had already
slipped into her casual outfit. She glanced quickly in his direction as she
wrapped up a few details with Tuvok. Her hair had nearly dried, and lay
about her shoulders in a bevy of loose waves.
     "So what do you want to do today?" she spoke, breaking into his
appreciative observations. "We can ride a stifarn," she grinned inwardly at
the image the name conjured up. "Or we can shop 'til we drop."
     "Why don't we just walk around and see where the day takes us,"
Chakotay suggested with a smile. It was nice to see her relaxed like this.
     "All right. It sounds like a plan," Kathryn returned as she raised her
hands to her head in an attempt to arrange the shining mass into some
semblance of order.
     " Why don't you leave it?" Chakotay asked.
     "Leave it?" Kathryn laughed at him. "If I do nothing else I need to
put a brush to it."
     "No," Chakotay disagreed. "Whatever the Rae'Biernan's used, it's
fallen nicely into place."
     Kathryn gazed at him a moment longer, then agreed with a laugh. "Okay.
When in Rome..."
     Chakotay grinned in satisfaction as he led her out of their quarters
and toward the exit they'd taken the day before. Halfway down the corridor
the sound of voices and music wafted toward them.
     "Hmmm..." Kathryn mused. "I wonder what's going on out there."
     "Perhaps it's the market," Chakotay suggested. It seemed to be an
intergalactic regulation that all outdoor markets meet exceedingly high
decibel requirements. The door slid open upon their arrival and they
stepped out into the sun.
     The music and voices rose to a deafening level as a rowdy crowd of
Rae'Biernan's writhed and laughed in time to the pounding beat of the
music. The appearance of the Significant One and his witness seemed to
drive the crowd into a frenzy.
     A loud cheer went up just as many pale blue bangled arms grabbed them
up bodily and drew them into the writhing parade of party goers.
     "Stop! Put me down!" Kathryn yelled to the happy partygoers, but they
were too loud to understand the translation of the universal translator.
The revelry makers simply laughed all the more as they carried both Captain
and Commander along with their party toward a very large tent at the end of
a long meandering line of partygoers.
     "Chakotay!" She tried to catch the commander's attention, but he was
being carried away on his own see of arms. They both found themselves in
the center of the crowd, which had parted to make room for them.
     Out of the masses one lone figure emerged, and the crowd calmed. She
approached the pair, laying a hand on each shoulder. "I regret that I was
unable to make your acquaintance the other evening. I am Y'elsel, wife of
Anamou. You performed well last night. It was the best Third Dance that I
have ever taken part in; your love for each other is quite powerful."
     Kathryn cast a sheepish glance at Chakotay, "thank you."
     "No my child thank you. For without the intrusion of you and the
Significant One, this bonding could not take place. We," she removed her
hand from Chakotay's shoulder to momentarily gesture toward the crowd,
"would like to show you our appreciation. Please enjoy our city and our
markets. Whatever you want today is yours."
     "Y'elsel, that's really most generous, but..."
     Kathryn watched as the older woman's eyes darkened, "I insist."
     "Of course," Kathryn laughed lightly, and clasped the hand of her
first officer, "Chakotay shall we?"
~~
     Kathryn was laughing as she entered their room some four hours later.
It had been a wonderful day and she was exhausted. She smiled as she
remembered the food they'd eaten for lunch an hour earlier. She'd joked
with Chakotay about kidnapping the chef and replacing Neelix in the
kitchen.
     "You surprise me," Chakotay said as he followed her in.
     "Really? How?"
     "I never saw you as a person who enjoys shopping."
     She laughed in response. "Normally I don't. But I've never been
offered the moon on a platter either." She grinned at him. She'd bought two
casual outfits and some supplies for the ship. Including a large pot she
hoped would please Neelix...The larger stuff would be delivered later.
     Chakotay looked at her with a smile, then his face grew serious,
"Kathryn...?"
     She noted the change in mood and blushed slightly as she moved toward
the balcony. "I wonder why they need a chaperone." She said to try to move
the topic back to safer ground.
     Chakotay shrugged. "We..."
     "Hello, I heard you were back." I'rol said from the doorway.
     Kathryn smiled gratefully at the interruption. "We had a wonderful
time."
     I'rol grinned. "I have your clothes for this evening. Most everybody
is asleep. Tonight is a long night..."
     Chakotay looked at Kathryn then I'rol. "How long?"
     "That depends. Until lunch tomorrow, possibly longer..." She grinned
as she placed the clothes on a chair. "Well I'd better go. See you
tonight." She left.
     Chakotay looked at the clothes, his were very similar to what he wore
the previous night. He picked up the dress Kathryn would wear. It was long,
low cut, and deep red dress made of something like velvet. He turned so she
could see it. "You look good in red."
     She smiled then blushed. "Thanks." A quick, nervous glance around. "We
should try to get some sleep. I guess."
     He nodded. They both walked into the bedroom. Kathryn glanced at him,
then forced herself to concentrate on the far wall. The bed was big.
Nervously she moved to the far side, sat down, and kicked off the sandals
she was wearing. She crawled under the covers and held her breath as he did
the same.
     She felt his eyes on her back, and rolled over to look at him. He
moved closer, until he was just inches from her.
     "Kathryn?" he whispered. There was more than a little longing in his
voice.
     Her eyes locked with his, and suddenly her heart rate tripled. She
blinked against the web of mystery he was creating with his proximity.
Minute details registered on her mind; the heat that rose off his body,
reaching toward hers, drawing her in; the love and hunger that flowed in
equal measures from the very being of him; the insecurity in his eyes as he
awaited her response; the slight tremble in his hands as he reached to
touch her face...
     "Kathryn...," he groaned out in a whisper, when she drew back almost
imperceptibly."
     "Chakotay, I...I can't," she whispered. "I value our relationship too
much to let it slip away because of a moment of weakness."
     "Love doesn't make one weak, Kathryn," Chakotay replied. "Love
strengthens, and builds up and makes the impossible a reality. Regardless
of where our relationship goes my feelings will not change. I love you
Kathryn Janeway, and that makes me strong."
     Kathryn felt her eyes misting over. "Chakotay...I..."
     "Shhh..." Chakotay murmured, and pulled her into his arms. "Let's just
get some sleep..."
     Kathryn was surprised to find that she was able to relax, and within
moments she was sound asleep.
     [A lovely melody played across her consciousness, a landscape in blue.
Slowly faces began to flow by her field of vision. Y'tfel, Asil, I'rol,
Y'tfel's father and mother, each smiling their blessing. And then another
face appeared, one she hasn't seen before. "I am Ailec," he introduced
himself. "I am father to Asil, this is my wife, K'loehr. We thank you both.
We sing a blessing to your union...
     A sea of faces became visible then, more than could possibly be
members of the wedding party. They all began to sing, richly, in perfect
unison. She felt a hand take hers, looking over her shoulder, she saw him
standing just behind her.
     She heard him call her name, but his lips only moved into a smile. 'My
heart beats for you' she heard him think. Then she heard the beating of his
heart, strong and fast and passionate. When she would have pulled away, she
embraced him mentally. And he drew her to himself, hands gently cupping her
face.
     "Kathryn," he whispered, a sigh of complete release, as his lips
lowered toward hers...]
     "Yessss..." it came out more like a sigh than an invocation. She
arched upward to meet...her pillow.
     Kathryn woke up in a sheen of sweat and looked at Chakotay--he was
still wide awake. She reached over and traced his tattoo. "You didn't
sleep, I'm sorry."
     He traced the outline of her lips, "I was just
thinking...couldn't...you..."
     "I understand," she took his hand, "we need to get dressed for the
dance now. Maybe you can help me on with my dress?"
     "It would be an honor."
~~
     I'rol watched as Chakotay fastened the clasp on Kathryn's choker, and
slowly turned her around. "You are beautiful." He planted a quick peck on
her cheek, "they're waiting for us; let's go."
     They entered the gardens as the moon was just beginning to rise. The
guests were fewer--only the family, Kathryn realized as she recognized
faces from her dream.
     K'loehr stepped forward with a smile. "Welcome to our home. And we
wish you well. And our gratitude in participating in what is, for you, a
very unusual ceremony." Her smile grew at Kathryn's start of a
protestation. "I know. I have watched you. You're curious and find
everything fascinating. And bewildering." K'loehr nodded toward the heavily
robed figure who stepped forward. "This is N'hlene, Priestess of the Song.
She will initiate the passage between the Second Dance and the First."
     The priestess held out her hand and took Kathryn's right hand and
placed it in Chakotay's left. She then clasped both her hands around their
hands and sung a song. It was short. When she finished, the priestess
motioned for Kathryn and Chakotay to follow her.
     They entered a small, empty room. The only light was from the five
candles by two glasses of a pale yellow liquid. N'hlene motioned for the
couple to stand in the corner. Minutes later, Y'tfel and Asil entered.
     Kathryn looked at Chakotay, she started to whisper a question, but the
priestess started singing. The betrothed pair kneeled in front of the cups.
She noted that the couple were extremely nervous--at least one custom that
many cultures had in common during a wedding. They were also wearing simple
dark robes. That surprised Kathryn, given the ornateness of the clothing
she and the other guests were wearing. She felt Chakotay's hands on her
shoulders.
     The priestess had stopped singing, the only sound to be heard was the
sound of insects from the garden. Asil lifted his glass and looked at
Y'tfel. She lifted hers and they both drank the liquid quickly. The glasses
were place down on the ground as the Priestess took their hands and started
singing again.
     When the last strains of the song faded away, the Priestess bowed her
head to the young couple and backed away.
     When the Priestess backed away, I'rol approached the couple and
touched them each gently on the shoulder in blessing. As she backed away,
each family member in turn approached the couple and offered a blessing.
     I'rol stepped toward Kathryn and Chakotay. "You must remain here and
keep watch throughout. You may sit, you may lie down, but you must not
sleep. This will help you..." She slipped two small cakes to the couple.
     "How will we know when the dance is over?" Chakotay whispered to the
young girl.
     "You will know," she replied with a smile.
     "What are they going to do?" Kathryn asked, still eyeing the robes
they wore.
     "They have drank the essence of the Flower of Purity. Tonight is the
bonding of minds. Oh, I almost forgot, you can't tell anyone what you see
and hear tonight outside this room." With that she turned and left the room
with the rest of the family.
     When the door slid closed, Y'tfel and Asil slid out of their robes...
     Their clothing discarded, the pair sat at on benches opposite each
other, knees just touching. Asil spoke first, "I loved you from the first
moment I saw you. I have waited a long time for you, but I would wait more-
-I would wait a lifetime."
     Y'tfel responded, "You make me whole. I was afraid, but no more."
     Kathryn took a bite of her cake in stunned silence. She felt like a
voyeur, what were she and Chakotay doing here anyway? What happened between
the pair was private.
     Asil reached a tentative hand out toward Y'tfel's breast, and then
glanced at Chakotay and Kathryn, and pulled back. "Chakotay," Kathryn
whispered, "I think I know why we're here."
     "And I assume it's not to give us ideas for when we actually get some
time alone."
     "I think we're chaperones."
     "What?!?"
     "We're here to make sure nothing happens between them."
     "That's not going to be so easy." Chakotay looked back at the young
lovers.
     Asil was speaking again, "I cannot imagine a day without you. You are
my everything."
     "Chakotay," Kathryn whispered again, "look at my hands." She held them
out for his inspection, "I'm shaking. Chakotay, I NEVER shake. I think
there was something in the cakes." She started giggling, "I've never felt
like this before!"
     He took them in his own and brought her fingers to his lips. "Felt
like what." He gently kissed them again.
     She froze at his touch, her whole body shivered as he kissed her
fingers one by one, his eyes never leaving hers. She tried several times to
speak, but each time the words disappeared. Finally she was able to
sputter, "We're here to chaperone them..." She glanced over at the young
lovers who were totally oblivious to anything or anybody except each other.
She pulled her hands away, to find her entire body was shaking. She looked
at the cake. Then with a deep breath stood and moved away from him. She sat
down and tried to ignore him, and ignore the couple.
     Chakotay watched her as she sat down by the opposite wall. He smiled
to himself, it had taken over three years. With a small nod of the head, he
returned his attention to the couple. "Chaperone..." He muttered quietly.
*And what are we to do...Force them apart, shoot them?* He remembered the
first words Asil had said and unconsciously returned his attention to the
Captain. *I loved you from the first moment I saw you...*
     Kathryn happened to look up at that moment, and even in the darkened
room could see--or was that feel--the love and desire radiating from his
being. She knew that they were radiating from her as well. She closed her
eyes to break the contact and forced herself to look away. She counted to
ten. Then started listing the reasons she couldn't get involved with an
officer in her command...It had been a successful method in the past to
calm herself down after such encounters.
     Her thoughts strayed, *Why not?*
     The list was no longer working. She quickly tried to remember the
proper method for realigning a warp coil. Her thoughts again strayed, to
Y'tfel's words, *I was afraid, but no more...*
     Her attention returned to the young lovers. Their foreheads were
touching their hands intertwined. Slowly she shifted her gaze back to him.
     Chakotay had moved nearer. He smiled. That slow, seductive grin that
he reserved for her alone. A sound from the center of the room caused
Chakotay to turn toward the young couple.
     Asil was drawing Y'tfel toward him with a gentle hand on her face.
Y'tfel's look of enchantment made it clear that her objective was the same
as Asil's.
     Chakotay turned back to Kathryn and saw the longing there in her eyes.
For the first time in her life, she was ready for this. But he wasn't. Not
here, not now. When he and Kathryn were bonded, and he had no doubt that
they would be, it would be private, just the two of them. And no matter
what the custom of the Rae'Biernan's, he would not invade what should be a
private moment for these young people.
     Before he could say the words aloud, the mere thought of his objection
caused the young people to pull apart. With the couple's reaction came
realization. Perhaps this wasn't a test only for the young, but for them as
well. He turned back to face Kathryn...
...and took one of her hands in his. "Not tonight Kathryn, not like this."
     She looked down at the ground, unsure of how to answer, and finally
meekly whispered, "I understand." She turned back to the two on the
opposite side of the room, they had moved apart and were talking in hushed
tones.
~~
     It seemed like only moments later when the doors to their small
quarters were opened letting in streams of brilliant light. Kathryn
squinted against it's intensity -- barely able to make out the shadow or
I'rol.
     "It is over," she smiled warmly at them both, "you performed well."
     I'rol didn't enter but stepped back out, making a slight motion for
Chakotay to follow. He took Kathryn's hand, his smile full of love and
desire.
     I'rol smiled at them, "Now for the First Dance." She handed Chakotay a
metal container. "This is the flower Asil chose for today. Don't touch it."
She pointed toward a gate. "The ceremony is through there."
     "You're not coming?" Chakotay asked as he guided a puzzled Kathryn to
the gate.
     "No, when the couple leaves, there is a bonding of families, followed
by a reception. You are invited...Unless..." She smiled at him. "I have
enjoyed meeting you Captain Kathryn Janeway and Commander Chakotay." She
made a slight curtsy and waved farewell as they passed through the gate.
     "Now what?" Kathryn asked.
     Chakotay shrugged. "This is the actual bonding..."
     Her eyes opened wide in alarm. "We aren't going to have to watch?"
     "No." He handed the canister with the flower to the waiting Priestess
of the Song. She smiled at them.
     Kathryn looked around the small garden. The ground was covered with
small red flowers. The priestess had them stand under a willow-like-tree.
"This has to be the most unusual wedding I've ever seen." She laughed
quietly, "My roommate at the academy invited me to her brother's wedding.
Years ago. She didn't tell me the bride was a Betazoid..."
     Chakotay leaned down and whispered in her ear, "That must have been an
eyeful." He whoofed when she playfully jabbed him with her elbow. He moved
so he was standing behind her, his hands on her shoulders. Without thinking
about it, his fingers started to stroke her neck and shoulders.
     Asil and Y'tfel entered from the small building where they had all
spent the night. Still unclothed. The Priestess chanted another song as she
opened the canister. Asil reached in and pulled out a flower. Red and very
similar to a rose. He then joined in the chant--the flower's color
flickered and changed to a deeper red. He handed the flower to Y'tfel. The
pair held the flower as it changed color rapidly. The Priestess stopped
singing, leaving only the bonded pair to chant. Soon there was silence. The
Priestess smiled at the two officers. Then departed.
     Chakotay reached down and took Kathryn's hand. "It's done." He
whispered. She nodded as they exited.
     There was no one outside. Kathryn looked around, she didn't feel like
joining the family at the reception. "How about a walk?"
     Chakotay nodded.
     They wandered aimlessly along the river, enjoying it's sights and
sounds (and each other's company). Both wondering what next. The sound of
laughter drew them further along, until they came to a dam in the river.
The swimmers in the pond ignored them.
     Chakotay motioned to a log. They sat down, content for the moment to
watch.
     There was a discreet cough. "Excuse me." Both looked up. The speaker
was Anamou, Y'tfel's father. "Captain Janeway?" The ceremony was past, rank
and title's returned.
     She stood. "Yes?"
     "I'd like to thank-you. Even though I was initially against this
bonding. But now I would like to discuss trade?" He smiled slightly. She
nodded, and they walked a short distance away.
     The Commander watched them for several seconds before returning his
attention to the playful antics of the swimmers.
     One couple in particular couple, an adolescent male and female, caught
his eye. Their play could only be described as out and out flirtation. He
laughed out loud as the female toppled the larger male into the deep blue
waters of the pond. Crashed and burned, as Tom would say.
     The female's slightly pointed ears perked up as Chakotay's laughter
floated across the water. She spun wide embarrassed eyes in his direction
before scurrying off across the gardens, a very wet and chastened male at
her heels.
     A smile continued to hover about Chakotay's mouth as he looked beyond
to the reception area. The low hum of conversation was no longer
distinguishable above the gentle sounds of nature. He and Kathryn had
undoubtedly wandered further than they'd realized.
     Taking in a deep, fragrant breath, his eyes were drawn to the flowers
growing along the edge of the pond. Sweet smelling blossoms billowed in the
gentle breeze. But one flower in particular gave him pause. It was a longer
stemmed variety, bearing large, almost rose-like blossoms. Their color, an
almost ever changing mottle of pastels, spoiled any further resemblance,
but caused Chakotay greater fascination. Something about it tugged at his
consciousness.
     He picked one. A delicate aroma, barely perceptible, overcame his
senses with a gentle euphoria. Quite lovely, he decided with a smile, just
like her. As he sniffed more deeply of the blossom, his eyes were drawn
toward the object of his thoughts.
     She looked up, and catching his eye, smiled softly before refocusing
her attention on Y'tfel's father.
     Smiling to himself, he gazed again at the little blossom. It's color
had changed to a delicate pink and it's blossom had changed so that it was
very similar in form to the flower that Asil had chosen for the bonding
ritual.
     Moving to his feet, he caught a movement from the corner of his eye.
The velvety material of Kathryn's dress billowed delicately about her small
frame as she approached. The intent look on her face told him that she'd
just conducted successful negotiations with Anamou, and was no doubt
planning the next round. Grinning wickedly, he slid the blossom behind his
back and turned to greet his captain.
     "Commander," Kathryn greeted him with a knowing grin. She hadn't spent
the past five years lost in the Delta Quadrant without learning to tell
when her first officer was up to something But first she had important
information to share. "Would you believe a moon controlled by the
Rae'Biernan's has very rich Dilithium deposits? Anamou is Chief of a large
mining consortium and has offered us a generous supply. He's also willing
to arrange for us to resupply the ship. I've contacted Tuvok and he's
sending a team to..."
     "Kathryn," Chakotay cut in with a innocent smile, purposefully
dropping the rank. "Are you enjoying the reception?"
     "It's quite lovely," was her reply, but her eyes told him that she was
slightly thrown off by his lack of interest in the precious commodities she
acquired.
     "And so are you," he replied, presenting her with the flower. The
colors had changed once again to a deep fuchsia.
     Kathryn melted into a smile. "Chakotay it's beautiful." The colors
continued to mottled to various shades of deep pink.
     As both their hands touched on the stem, something happened. There was
an electricity in the air. Something almost tangible passed between them,
and then the world spun away in a dizzying web of emotion. Thoughts,
desires, dreams, all were displayed openly, melding into a single thought.
     "Chakotay..." Kathryn stepped back in confusion as the rose slipped
from her fingers.
     "It is done," the alien announced in satisfaction.
     "What is done?" Kathryn was startled, but comprehension, was slowly
settling onto Chakotay's features.
     "Kathryn, I think..."
     He was interrupted, "You have been bonded." Anamou raised his hands,
and pronounced something in his own language--which Kathryn took for a
blessing.
     "I'm sorry...I don't."
     Anamou placed a gentle hand on her shoulder. "It would not have
happened if you both did not want it. What's done is done; let it not be
undone. It is now time for the First Dance; you must hurry."
     Anamou smiled at the confusion on Kathryn's face. "You have bonded.
The Flower of Purity cannot cause what does not exist." He looked at
Chakotay then the flower. Chakotay bent down to pick it up.
     Kathryn's eyes never left the flower. She wanted to throw it, rip it
to shreds, kiss her First Officer, take him in her arms and...She felt his
fingers on her cheek. Instinctively she turned her head so that she could
kiss them.
     With a start she looked up and returned his gaze. Her hands reached
out and took hold of both his. Again their emotions and desires merged.
Nodding slightly she allowed him to escort her back to their room.
Oblivious to their surroundings...
     Anamou smiled slightly as he watched them leave. They were to have met
the Voyager away-team in forty-five minutes. He'd tell them that the
Captain and Commander were taking part in one last ritual.
~~
     She was nervous, excited, a host of emotions overwhelmed her as they
stepped into their quarters. She suddenly felt shy and pulled away from him
with a blush. He followed her and stood behind her. "Kathryn," he
whispered. "I love you. I have loved you from the moment I first saw
you..."
     She leaned back against him, a sense of completeness, oneness filled
her. "I...I have loved you for so long, that I don't remember the exact
moment I did. I was afraid...but no more." She turned.
     The passion in the kiss that followed was intoxicating. They fumbled
with each other's clothing, carelessly letting it fall. Without a word he
picked her up and carried her to the bed.
     No words were spoken, as they explored each other with fingers and
mouths. This union far surpassed either's dreams.
~~
     Anamou stood by as one of Voyager's shuttles landed in a small
clearing. He smiled broadly as the away-team appeared from the crew
compartment. "Welcome!" he proclaimed with arms spread wide.
     "Thank you," Tuvok replied dryly, coming to a stop before Anamou. "I
am Lieutenant Tuvok," he introduced himself. Then gesturing toward the two
security officers at either side, "These are Lieutenants Brinkman and
Jules."
     Anamou nodded cordially. "I am Lord Anamou. It is a pleasure to meet
you Lieutenant Tuvok and Lieutenant Brinkman and Lieutenant Jules. I say
again, welcome."
     Tuvok returned the nod before glancing around the clearing. "Where are
Captain Janeway and Commander Chakotay? I assume by your presence that they
have been detained."
     Anamou smiled delicately. This one's mind was very ordered, and
disciplined to a degree he'd not experienced. He would leave it to the
Commander and Captain to explain the situation to their people. "They are
taking part in a final ritual. If you choose you may remain until the
ritual is complete or you may return at a later time."
     Tuvok surveyed the clearing once again, reassessing their situation in
light of the new information. "We will wait."
     "Very good," Anamou grinned in satisfaction, and gestured the trio
along a narrow path that would lead to a reception area.
~~
     Tom Paris's voice sounded over the comm channel. "The transfer of
materials is taking place now."
     "Thank you, Lieutenant. Tuvok out." Tuvok again glanced about the
poshly decorated reception area. He knew the location and title of every
Rae'Biernan in the room, as well as the location and alert status of his
security officers. After 1 hour and 47 minutes in the company of the overly
friendly Rae'Biernan's and their 'refreshments' he could only attribute his
rigorous training as the reason the officers had not joined in the revelry.
     His tricorder told him that two humans were nearby and in good health.
But something in the stones prevented any further detail. As he returned
his tricorder to it's holder, he noticed that their host, Anamou, cast a
rather agitated look toward he and his security team before whispering in a
servant's ear. A soft gong sounded and a group of veiled dancers filed into
the room. As the dancers took their place, forming an asymmetrical V, the
lead dancer spoke. "We are the Unnamed Chanters of the Tarn. We seek your
pleasure. Strains of an exotic melody filled the room as the dancers paired
off and fell into step with the music.
     Tuvok moved purposefully toward Anamou and quietly demanded to see the
Captain and Commander. Now.
~~
     Kathryn awoke to a discreet tap. Her motion awakened Chakotay.
Realization caught them both simultaneously.
     Kathryn, bundled in the crook of Chakotay's shoulder, her very naked
body pressed tightly to his side, blushed clear to her roots. Chakotay
reddened slightly, but tightened his arm about her, and smiled.
     Then another realization hit them both. They were late.
     Five scrambling minutes later, they were both dressed in uniform and
standing by the door. "Chakotay...I..." Kathryn began. There was so much
she wanted to say, but what she ended up doing was grabbing his collar and
dragging his lips to meet hers.
     Chakotay's arms went convulsively about her in a desire to have her
even closer. Their bodies fit together perfectly as they shared a final
moment in this place. Then, wordlessly, they hurried to the landing site.
     As they rushed out of the room, Kathryn ran straight into her chief of
security.  But for his Vulcan strength, she would certainly have knocked
him flat.
     "Tuvok," she took a few steps backward, "I--I'm sorry you had to wait-
-we were--delayed."
     Tuvok quirked an eyebrow at the captain's use of we, but merely said,
"Yes, Captain, that has been explained.  Lieutenant Paris has confirmed
that the supplies are being transferred, so we can return to Voyager at any
time."
     "Excellent."  She looked up at her new husband, placing her hand
lightly on his chest.  "Are you ready?"
     As they walked back to the shuttle, Tuvok studied the pair with his
usual detachment.  Something had happened between them, that much was
easily apparent. The logical indication was that they had become intimate.
He would respect their privacy, he only hoped that the rest of the crew
would do the same.
~~
     Tom Paris was used to women throwing themselves at his feet, but they
were usually not quite as young as this Rae'Biernan.
     He extended at hand and helped her to her feet.  "I'm Tom Paris;  how
do you do?"
     I'rol grinned at the handsome pilot. "Hi, I'm I'rol. Is
Kathryn...Captain Janeway here yet." She reached down and picked up the
small bouquet of flowers she had dropped. She looked about.
     "She was delayed..."
     I'rol's grin grew bigger. "I know...I heard and wanted to congratulate
them...Is she going to be here soon?"
     Tom shook his head. "She's making the final arrangements for us to
collect dilithium."
     I'rol's smile faded, replaced by a look of disappointment. "Oh. I
can't wait. I'm suppose to be in class..." She handed Tom the flowers.
"Give these to her and Chakotay and tell them congratulations. Their
bonding has brought great luck to my brother's wedding...Thank-you..." She
was running back toward the town before Tom could put meaning to her words.
A wild grin spread across his face as he comprehended what had happened. He
sniffed the flowers, then tapped his comm-badge hard. "Paris to Neelix."
     There was a pause, then the Talaxian's voice responded. "Tom?"
     "Neelix, you need to plan a party," Tom looked around, no one was
around.
     "Party?"
     Tom laughed. "A reception for this evening. Not too formal, and I
think you will want to be prepared to make a special announcement..."
     "Isn't a reception for after a wedding? I'm planning one for Ensign
Gray and her fiancee."
     "Use my holoprogram Paris forty-seven alpha. And I believe the captain
is particularly fond of spice cake."
     There was a very long pause. Then Neelix's very confused voice
continued. "Uhh. The Captain and Commander???"
     Tom smiled. "Well, let's just say I've been told by a reliable source
that they have *bonded*--but not to tell the Commander or Captain. I have
some ideas...Paris out." He turned quickly in an attempt to wipe the smile
off his face as the Captain and Commander approached the shuttle. They were
followed by several Rae'Biernans. "Captain, Commander, did you enjoy
yourselves?" A smile twitched on his lips. He handed the Captain the
flowers causing her to look at him suspiciously. Tom nearly laughed. "I'rol
left these for you...They are quite beautiful."
     Chakotay looked quickly at the flowers then at Tom, "Did she say
anything?"
     "Just that she was late for class." He looked at the supplies the
Rae'Biernans were carrying. "Is this the last?"
     "Yes Lieutenant," Janeway responded. "Anamou has arranged for the
dilithium to be transported to Voyager tomorrow. How's my ship?"
     Tom laughed. "Just fine, Captain."
     Chakotay grinned as he went to show where to stash the supplies on the
shuttle.
~~
     The shuttle trip back to Voyager was uneventful. Tom noticed that the
Captain sat on one side, the Commander on the other. They both were reading
various reports. He realized that one of their concerns was *how would the
crew react.* A little smile started to form on his lips, he hoped that the
reception would put their mind at ease on that score. He also noticed the
Vulcan glance at him and realized that Tuvok also knew.
~~
     B'Elanna was waiting for Tom when the shuttle landed. When the blonde
pilot exited the ship, she grabbed him and pulled him into a corner.
Chakotay watched then with a chuckle muttered, "I wonder..."
     "Commander, I'll be on the bridge," Janeway winked just before she
turned to leave.
     *Well,* he thought. *There is no place like home. Especially when one
has just married the Captain.* He wondered what next.
     B'Elanna growled at Tom as she pushed him up against the wall. "OK
Helmboy, what the Hell are you pulling now?"
     "Calm down B'Elanna. They really are married." He smiled as her grip
on his neck relaxed. The look of total disbelief, surprise in her eyes was
really quite appealing. "Did you see the bouquet of flowers she was
carrying?" B'Elanna nodded as she released her hold. "Asil's younger sister
gave them to me to give to her. And told me she wanted to congratulate
*them* on their bonding."
     "How??? I mean I never thought the Captain would...well...you know."
They watched Chakotay re-enter the shuttle. "Uhh. Is it legal?"
     Tom shrugged. "Is anything legal out here? I'd say it's as legal as
they want to make it." He straightened his uniform. "Now, I do need to talk
to Neelix. I presume everybody knows?"
     The engineer nodded. "Neelix announced it thirty minutes ago. He also
said it was a surprise. She may toss you in the brig."
     He ran his hand along her cheek, "I think not. She's going to have
more *interesting* things on her mind. Like her wedding night...See you
tonight?"
     B'Elanna smiled. "I wouldn't miss it."
~~
     Chakotay re-entered an entry into his data padd for the third time.
How was he supposed to function like this? Wasn't there an unwritten law of
the universe that newly weds were not required to have a coherent thought
for at least 48 hours? And the grin. No matter how hard he tried he
couldn't seem to keep a the grin from creeping across his face.
     "Don't you look like the cat who swallowed the canary?" B'Elanna
grinned at Chakotay's shoulder. He jumped and her grin broadened.
     Chakotay's eyes immediately dropped as he murmured, "Uh...It's nice
having so many raw materials on hand. These should keep us going for quite
some time."
     B'Elanna's grin all but split her face. Chakotay was hiding something,
and she knew what. "So, what are you doing after duty shift?"
     That caught Chakotay slightly off guard. Especially since all he could
think about doing was being with his wife. "Uh...I need to finish my report
on our visit with the Rae'Biernan's..." he finally uttered lamely.
     "Well, can it wait a few minutes? The Rae'Biernan's have given us so
much that we now have the raw materials to put in action an idea I've had
in the back of my mind for months. But, I'll need to run the idea by you
and the Captain."
     "What sort of idea?" Chakotay asked, knowing he was in for a very
technical explanation and not caring. B'Elanna had *good* ideas.
     "It's a way to increase energy on the power grid by 20%. The Interion
Projection Module has always been a little shaky, but if I use the
Beidurian Mineral Compound that we received from the planet I can reorient
the Kieger generator in conjunction with the Nefron Realignment Enhancer.
In that way the quantum nodules of the Biomolecular synapses won't..."
B'Elanna was only warming up, but paused midstream when she realized she'd
lost Chakotay. Smiling secretly to herself, she snapped a finger. "I have a
simulation that can show you what I mean. How about you and the Captian
meet me in holodeck 2 in about 30 minutes and then I can show you both at
the same time?"
     As Chakotay had gotten lost somewhere around the Nefron Realignment
Enhancer, all he could do was nod and ensure his engineer that he and the
captain would be present at the briefing.
     Outside the storage bay B'Elanna tapped her comm-badge to alert
everyone that the party was a go in 30 minutes.
~~
     B'Elanna grinned as she watched the captain and Chakotay approach the
holodeck. They were so absorbed in each other that they were oblivious to
their surroundings--the way newlyweds galaxy wide behaved.
     She nodded to them at their approach. "Let me just get the program
started..." She turned and keyed a code into the panel by the door, and on
the opposite side of the door, all of Voyager's off-duty crew (and a few
others who trusted the computers to perform their duties for a short while)
hid.
     "Lieutenant, isn't it common practice for the program already to be
running?" Kathryn was beginning to suspect that something was up.
     "In most cases yes," faltered B'Elanna who was buying time to make
sure everyone was in position, "but as you know beidurian is a rather
unstable compound and if it don't get it into the enhancer at just the
right time it was retrograde into quatrosine.."
     Kathryn was pretty sure that half life of beidurian was five years,
but she was in no shape to press the issue. B'Elanna opened the door, and
ushered the pair in.
     Kathryn was nonplussed to see the room was dark, and was about to ask
if beidurian was also photosensitive, when...
     "Surprise!!!!!!!!"
     She and Chakotay were hit full force by an exultant crew. Someone
called for lights, and she saw that Sandrine's had been transformed into a
reception hall. The pool tables were gone and replaced by a long banquet
table. Neelix entered with a wedding cake which he proudly announced was a
Terran Spice Cake on top of which stood miniatures of herself and Chakotay
dress proudly in traditional wedding clothes. A giant banner was stung
across the far end of the room, reading, "Congratulations Captain and
Commander: Our best wishes for many happy years ahead."
     Tom Paris popped his head up from under the bar, proudly brandishing a
corkscrew. He beckoned to them, "Try some of Rae'Biernan's finest. The real
thing." Kes helped him dole out the glasses of the champagne-like
substance, Tuvok proposed a toast to the happy couple.
     "There is nothing nobler or more admirable than when two people who
see eye to eye keep house as man and wife, confounding their enemies and
delighting their friends. Blessings to both of you."
     Tom's was simpler, "Here's to the husband and here's to the wife. May
they remain lovers for life."
     While Neelix offered a toast in his own language, "Nem a Reved nar ev
e rofyat okahc dnayaw e naj."
     Kathryn smiled secretly at her lover, and whispered, "I guess this
solves the problem of breaking the news to the crew."
     And so it continued far through the afternoon, until everyone had had
their chance to congratulate the couple. The party was in full swing, and
only the most observant noticed the guests of honor slipping out, though
they did not say anything.
     "We should remove part of the wall between our quarters," Chakotay
muttered just before he kissed her. The door to her quarters had just shut
behind them.
     She stepped back from him with a playful grin. "Commander, we just did
this...Well a couple of hours ago. Anyway we have some reports to read."
     He looked disappointed until he noticed the playfulness in her eyes.
"Yes, perhaps you're right." He managed to keep a straight face. "Since
that is what the crew is expecting us to do now anyway." He reached out and
pulled her into his arms. "We'll read them later," was lost in the melding
of their mouths.
~~
     She woke-up and smiled. Damned if she hadn't gone and *bonded* with
her First Officer. For better or worse. She moved to snuggle closer to him
and realized he was sitting up. She raised her head slightly. "What are you
doing?" She asked sleepily.
     "Reading."
     She sat up, pulling the blankets with her. "Reading what?"
     "The crew schedule for next month. I like to get these things finished
early."
     She grinned, "Do you always work in bed?"
     "It was this or wake you up..." He placed the PADD on the nightstand.
"But, since you are now awake..." He pulled the blankets away from her,
exposing her to his gaze. "What are you laughing at." She had pressed her
head into his chest and he could feel her laughing.
     "Us, this. It's all sort of backwards."
     "Backwards?"
     "Well," she sat up and looked at him. "Don't couples normally date a
while before getting married?"
     "What do you think I've called all those working dinners?" He leaned
over and kissed her.
     "And here I was thinking those were just working dinners." She pushed
him down and straddled him. "Any other dates I misses?" She asked
dangerously.
     He grinned at her, "I'm not telling."
     She kissed him quickly. "We'll see." She kissed him again, slower...
     The alarm rang. She reached over and turned it off. "But we'll have to
see later." Reluctantly both crawled out of the bed and started their
morning preparations.
     As Tom noted, neither were late for duty...they arrived with seconds
to spare.
****

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