This story has Twenty crew members, including Tom and B'Elanna, kidnapped for social observation. This happens some time after the episode "Displaced".A Time AwaySwaglerMP@aol.comMarianella May 1997Disclaimer: Standard for every fan-fiction story. Paramount owns everything coming after the words STAR TREK. This story however is mine, I just borrowed the characters, ship and added my own material. Hopefully you'll enjoy this story...whether you do or not, please email any comments.Also, the two songs are from Depeche Mode's Ultra album: "It's no good" and "Insight" . B'Elanna sat quietly in the messhall. She was recollecting the memories being with Tom in the Argala habitat. It was freezing in those caves and Tom's eyes looked so blue and his hands, despite the weather, was very warm. She shook her head to dismiss any thoughts of the two of them ever getting 'together'. We're always arguing, there's no way the two of us could ever be together she thought as she sipped her coffee. She kept her back facing the crowd as her eyes fixed upon a very shiny star. But then the star exploded. The explosion shook the ship a bit and everyone was called to duty. After taking the last gulp of coffee in her mouth, she headed for Engineering. When she arrived, she discovered warp drive was put off-line. It seemed strange, but she reported the problem to the bridge. "Torres to Bridge." "Janeway here, what is it B'Elanna?" "Captain, what exactly rocked the ship? It didn't seem so rough, but warp drive was put off-line." "As of yet, we don't know what happened. Weapons, long range sensors and helm control all went off-line as well." "I'm sending repair crews right now Captain." "Acknowledged. Bridge out." Janeway turned to Tuvok with concern, "You know, I feel like a sitting duck right now." "If you are referring to the fact that we are idle for any enemy to approach and board us, I have come to the same conclusion." "Just like the Captain said, 'I feel like a sitting duck'." Tom said quietly to himself. Tuvok just raised his eyebrow as he heard Tom's remark, but didn't comment. "Captain!" Harry shouted, "Short range sensors have detected a vessel approaching." "Shields!" "Shields are off-line as well." "Tuvok, alert security teams on the double. Red alert everyone. I'm not taking any chances right now." "The approaching vessel is scanning us Captain." "Hail them Mr. Kim." "No response Captain." "Keep hailing them until we get a response. Mr. Tuvok, are their weapons locked on us?" "No Captain." "I wonder what they want." Janeway kept her hands at her waist pacing the front of her chair and occasionally looking at the full screen. All of a sudden Tom disappeared. "What the heck happened to Lt. Paris?" "I am detecting 20 missing crew members. They all must have been beamed aboard that ship." "Who is missing?" Tuvok read the names out as Janeway's face flushed with anger. "Ten men and ten women were taken, including Lt. Torres. I can only speculate what they want with our crew." Harry interrupted Janeway's thoughts. "Captain, a message was downloaded into our computers as the twenty people were beamed away." "Please play it for us Mr. Kim. I want to know what they want with my crew!" "To the unidentified vessel. You have entered Raptalior Territory. Your crew will not be harmed. We need them to socially study your diverse species. We will return them in three days. We have beamed aboard some vital supplies you will need since we put most of your systems off-line. After we have returned your crew, we will fix your ship and you can be on your way. I must apologize if our methods of study are different from yours, but we can assure you that we are not a violent race. Again, we will return in three days." "That's the whole message Captain." Chakotay walked over to the Captain. "What are your orders Captain?" "Let's see if we can fix our own ship before they get back. I'd like the crew back on board as soon as possible. Harry, see if our short range scanners can trace any signatures that can trace us to that other ship." "I'll send a crew over to the cargo bays to check on whatever the Raptaliors sent us." "Thank you Commander." B'Elanna woke up with a headache in a strange room. She looked in the mirror and saw that her uniform was off of her and the comm badge was missing. "Whoever beamed me aboard is a deadman for taking my clothes!" She was left wearing a tank top and her panties. She began pounding on the walls, but they were too solid to make any noise through them. As she walked around the tiny room, she saw a dress that was practically transparent. "I am not wearing this!" The dress was made of a pink silky-like material and appeared to be a toga like the Greeks wore. B'Elanna just tossed the dress to the corner and sat on the bed. Tom woke up, also with a headache, in a pleasant looking room. His room had an oversized bed, carpeting, framed paintings...and a closet full of various expensive looking clothes. "Where the heck am I and why am I here." He subconsciously reached for his comm badge, but found it was missing. He also found himself out of uniform, and since he didn't want his captors to find him in his underwear, he chose an outfit from the closet. After dressing, he walked over to the door and tried to open it. It wouldn't budge, so he tried to bang on it. No luck whatsoever. Tom wondered who else was trapped in a room like this. B'Elanna's headache got worse and the room got colder. She put on that horrible dress and crawled into the bed, pulling the sheets over her. She shut her eyes hoping her headache would go away.Immediately after she shut her eyes, images in her mind took over. Most of the images were of Tom...all the times they were together on the holodeck, away missions, the mess hall and her most intimate dreams. His voice was even calling out to her. She struggled to wake herself up with no avail. The next set of images were of the two of them...together. Tom sat on the bed, staring at the strange painting on the wall. It had a familiar scene in it. It showed two people in a lover's embrace almost kissing...it looked like Rodin's "The Kiss" sculpture, but different. These two lovers were dressed. The man had an outfit similar to what he had on, and the woman was in a toga-like dress. He scrutinized the picture more carefully to see if he can see their faces but no such luck. The woman did have almost shoulder length brown hair. He dismissed the thought of the picture portraying him and B'Elanna. He walked over to the replicator and ordered dinner. He tried to order a pain killer for his headache, but it gave him a pillow instead. He took the pillow and went to bed as soon he finished his dinner. His dreams came immediately. B'Elanna voice was heard beyond a beautiful flower-filled field. He walked to her voice and she was standing there wearing the toga and her arms held out for him. A song began to play as he got closer to the beautiful woman standing before him: I'm going to take my time I have all the time in the world to make you mine. It is written in the stars above the gods decree you'll be here right by my side right next to me you can run, but you cannot hide Don't say you want me don't say you need me don't say you love me it's understood don't say you're happy out there without me I know you can't be 'cause it's no good. Tom wanted to wake up, but he was enjoying this strange dream. He finally got to the B'Elanna in his dreams and embraced her. She began to kiss his cheeks gently and caressed his face. B'Elanna was having the same dream. She didn't know that the two of them shared this dream, but she was enjoying it. They weren't arguing, they were in a lover's embrace. After the two looked into one another's eyes, they went in separate directions and the song continued: I'll be fine I'll be waiting patiently til you see the signs and come running to my open arms when you realise do we have to wait till our worlds collide open up your eyes you can't turn back the tide Don't say you want me don't say you need me don't say you love me it's understood don't say you're happy out there without me I know you can't be 'cause it's no good I'm going to take my time I have all the time in the world to make you mine. It is written in the stars above. B'Elanna woke up in a pleasant mood, until she remembered where she was. She wasn't sure of the time, but she knew she was hungry. She circled the room, but no replicators. She looked up to see if there were any monitors watching her. She stared at the corners and screamed, "What do you want from me? The least you can do is give me something to eat!" As she screamed those last words, she was transported to Tom's room. Tom's eyes widened as he saw B'Elanna standing in the middle of his room. She looked as surprised as he was. "B'Elanna? What, what are you doing here?" "I don't know. Hey your room is nicer than mine!" Before she could say anymore, she remembered what she was wearing. She looked down at herself and then turned her face away. Tom got off the bed and walked over to the closet and grabbed a coat. "Here B'Elanna. You might need this since you look a little cold." "Um, thanks Tom." She took the coat and wrapped it around herself. "My uniform was missing when I woke up. This dress was the only thing our captors left for me. How come you get better treatment?" "I have no clue. Would like to sit down?" "I'd like something to eat...there wasn't a replicator in my room." "There's one over here. It can replicate anything you want, except for something to treat this awful headache. What can I get for you?" "A salad and an oversized Phillycheese steak hoagie." Tom smiled to himself and got her what she wanted. For such a petite woman, she had a big appetite. Maybe she needed all the energy fuel for her Klingon side. There was no table in the room so he set the plates at the edge of the bed and sat on the floor. B'Elanna joined him and began to eat. "Thanks Tom. Do you have any idea how long we've been here and why have we been taken?" "We've probably been here for no longer than 24 hours. I haven't heard or seen anyone else. I'm not sure if the whole crew were captured or just the two of us." "Well, we have to do something!" "I'm all ears B'Elanna. These walls are solid, the doors won't open, and our captors haven't said or demanded anything from us." B'Elanna growled and just continued eating. When she was done, she got up and circled his room. She looked at how elegantly his room was decorated and then noticed a painting. She walked over to painting to get a closer look. Her eyes popped open when the picture became familiar to her. She looked down at her dress and then turned to see Tom's outfit. What's going on here! she thought. "Is there something wrong B'Elanna?" "No, well yes. But, no this is ridiculous." "Can you be just a little more specific?" "Look at this painting Tom. It was in my dream last night." Tom walked over and could see the faint flush in her cheeks. He tried his best not be as embarrassed as she was. "This painting was in my dream too, but it wasn't the painting. It was the two people in it." "Do you suppose we had the same dream?" "Maybe, but why?" "The ones who brought us here. They're responsible for that I'm sure, and oh this headache. Headache! Tom let me see your head." "Why? Are you turning into a medic?" "Be quiet Tom. They could have implanted a neural device when we were brought here." Frantically she moved her fingers all over his head and neck but there were no signs of implants. She kept one hand on his head and just rubbed his hair back in place. "I don't see anything Tom." "Can you keep rubbing my head? It's taking my mind off the headache." He smiled sweetly and mischievously at her. She looked at his smirk and slapped his head. "Ow...you could have just said no!" "What am I going to do with you Tom? Forget, don't answer that question!" "B'Elanna, I have no idea what you were thinking, but I am behaving like a gentleman." "Whatever Tom." She paced his room in pain and frustration. "Oh this headache! The only thing to make it go away is by sleeping. How am I going to get back to my room?" "You can sleep here." he said innocently. "Don't get any ideas B'Elanna. This is a huge bed and we can divide it up using all those pillows. I promise I won't try anything." B'Elanna thought about her situation. She didn't know how to get back to her room and Tom's room was more comfortable. He hadn't been anything but a perfect gentleman here or back on Voyager so she folded her arms and agreed. "Okay Tom, but if you even put your leg passed the divider, I'll break it." Tom let out a little laugh. "Fine B'Elanna. Which side do you usually sleep on? I can have either." "The left side so my right arm will be free to hit anything that touches me." she said jokingly, with a small smile on her face. "Good night or good morning Tom." The two took their respective sides and closed their eyes. Both of them were feeling a bit uncomfortable hoping their dreams would not be similar again. They had their backs turned in opposite directions and shut their eyes. Back on Voyager the crew were scrambling around the clock trying to fix everything that was put off-line. The Captain was getting impatient and very angry. Each report handed to her did not give her good news. After twenty four hours, they were still stuck. Janeway called a meeting of the senior officers. "Captain, I don't know what the Raptaliors did to us, but we can't fix a thing." "That's something I don't want to hear Ensign Kim. I really don't want to stay here while they have twenty of my crew who knows where?" "Anyone else have anything to add?" No one replied anything positive when it came to the ship's physical status. "Captain, as my job as morale officer, I feel it is my duty to do something for the crew to get their minds off our current situation." "What do you suggest Neelix?" "Well, I was thinking of some sort of game or competition among the crew. Since all the repairs have been failures, let them relax and enjoy themselves until these aliens return in about forty eight hours." "Neelix's idea is a good one." Chakotay agreed and looked back at Janeway. "What do you think Mr. Tuvok? Do you share Mr. Neelix's and Mr. Chakotay's opinion." "In a way yes. It is futile to do repair on a ship that refuses to be fixed by our methods. Also, the crew have become very wary in the last twenty four hours. I am not sure if a game is in order, but I do believe a form of exercise, whether it be tactical or for 'fun', is called for." Janeway was at a standstill. They couldn't repair their own ship and the Raptaliors did say they would return to undo what damage had been done. "Well okay Mr. Neelix and Mr. Tuvok. Set some for of exercise or training to occupy the crew while we wait. If anyone was thinking of tennis, I could use a good challenger." Janeway smiled and dismissed her officers. As it did before, the moment they shut their eyes, their dreams began. Their minds were opened to the other's. Each came from the opposite direction, walking towards the center of the field. They met at the center where a blanket was laid and a picnic set on top. There was a basket of food, a bottle of wine, and a setting just for two. B'Elanna sat first and laid upon the blanket, allowing the flowered breeze to relax her. Tom then sat and took out some grapes. He edged closer towards her and began placing grapes, one a time in her mouth. She took it willingly, and sometimes even took the tip of his finger with the grape. The feeling of her tongue on his finger shot a bolt to his toes. He smiled at her seductively and caressed her cheek. She sat up and poured them each a glass of wine. She took a strawberry, dipped into the wine and gently rubbed it over Tom's lips before putting it into his mouth. He enjoyed this method of being fed. This went on for several minutes until B'Elanna pushed Tom on his back. He was a little startled at first, but then he remembered the same look in her eyes when they were on Sakari together. She smiled at him as she ripped his shirt open and gently pressed her nails down his chest. Tom shut his eyes and waited for her next movement. She began to kiss and nibble his right earlobe, his jaw, and then his neck. He pulled her closer to him to take her lips into his. Their mouths met and the heat began...or so Tom in his dreams thought. The sleeping B'Elanna forced herself to open her eyes. She sat up and began to punch Tom's arm. "What did you think you were doing?" "Hey, that hurt! I didn't do a thing. I haven't moved from this spot since we shut our eyes. What the heck are you talking about?!" B'Elanna was a little embarrassed but still furious. "Who's idea was that..that dream?" "Not mine. I don't like the fact that we're sharing dreams B'Elanna." He rubbed his arm, feeling a bruise already formed. Then he looked at her and smiled. "If I were to dream about us, it would be quite different." "Don't even tell me Paris!" She folded her arms and sat up against the headboard. "B'Elanna. B'Elanna?" "What?" "Are we still friends?" "Yes, we're still friends." "Okay. Remember I told you in Sakari that I value our friendship, and when we ran in that Argala habitat, I didn't want anything to happen to you. I wouldn't do anything here to jeopardize our friendship. Come on Torres, we've had a few lunch dates and I haven't once done anything dishonorable." "Yes, you're right Tom. I don't like the fact that our captors are keeping us this way. I don't like my mind played with." "Well, neither do I. Let's get back to sleep and if we start dreaming again, remember it's not real and we're just friends. If anything happens, please don't hit me." B'Elanna just laughed and rubbed Tom's bruised arm. "Okay Paris. I'll try to remember that it really isn't you. I can pretend it's someone else." "Very funny." Before he laid down, he threw a pillow at her. She couldn't resist throwing it back so they engaged in an old-fashioned pillow fight. After only a few minutes, they managed to get the whole room filled with flying feathers. They sat back in retreat and started to laugh at what they just did. "Okay Tom, no what?" "Hey don't look at me. I just handed you a pillow." "You did not! You threw it at me." "And you retaliated very forcefully." The two couldn't stop laughing at the mess and at their behavior. "I just relived my nine year old sleepover party." "You have pillow fights at a sleep-over party?" "Of course B'Elanna! Boys tell ghost stories, have pillow fights, cause minor disturbances to their siblings and never sleep." "What do girls do at their sleep-overs?" "Just about the same, but they eat as much junkfood as they can." "Junkfood?" "Yes, like fudge, potato chips/dip, popcorn, cookies and anything else the Mom has in the kitchen." "Sounds like fun. Well, since we just had a pillow fight, why don't you replicate some 'junkfood' and I can tell you some Klingon ghost stories. I am not in the mood to sleep now, even though I do have this headache." "Great idea B'Elanna. Too bad we don't have any brothers or sisters to bother." After he said that, he saw B'Elanna's eyes fall downwards. She was an only child, and had a very lonely time growing up. He quickly thought of something to cheer her up. "Well, whenever my friends and I bothered my older sisters, they certainly had their revenge on us by morning." "What did they do?" "When and if any of us fell asleep, they'd steal our pajama shorts and hang them in the tree for the neighbors to see. Our names would be in them since most Moms liked to write their son's name on their clothes so it won't get mixed up with another boy's stuff." "So you boys would be humiliated by a bunch of girls? That is funny Tom." "I knew you'd think so. Okay, let's see here. How about a bag of marshmallows, peanut butter fudge, nacho chips with cheese, and a two liter bottle of rootbeer to start?" "Sounds awful, but I'm sure I'll eat it. Okay, let's sit here on the floor. You can dim the lights and I'll tell you a ghost story my grandfather used to tell me." Tom started eating the nacho chips. With a small mouthful still being chewed he said, "Okay, I'm listening." "Many, many years ago, there was a very dishonorable warrior named K'Olany. He was a strong warrior, yes, but he killed other warriors when not in battle. He was a murderer. Klingons who do not show themselves to their enemies when killing their enemies are murderers. He killed other warriors to become the high warrior in the House of Lucarsor. Not many knew of his treacherous doings, but with every man he killed, that spirit lived and waited to seek revenge." "This isn't going to be too bloody, is it B'Elanna?" Tom asked as he stuffed his mouth with some marshmallows. "Too bad we're not around a camp fire...we can make s'mores!" "Shut up Tom! How can you eat so much of that stuff? Let me finish the story." "I'm sorry B'Elanna. Please continue." "Okay where was I. Oh, the spirits of the murdered warriors awaited the death of K'Olany so they could have their revenge. Each night, these spirits gathered together to sing and plan their revenge once K'Olany was dead. Sure his spirit would walk among other dishonored Klingons, but first these spirits would get him first. "K'Olany was almost the high warrior. The only other warrior stopping him was a young warrior named T'Inara. T'Inara was an honorable man and a very strong warrior. K'Olany did not know that he was the son of one of the murdered warriors. One night as T'Inara was in meditation, he had a vision of these dead warriors. They spoke to him of the treacherous deeds of K'Olany. They warned him to watch his back and keep a look at his eyes for the eyes is what decides if a warrior will kill another. "One evening, Lucarsor called all his warriors to a special dinner. At the dinner he announced a battle was to determine who would become the high warrior. K'Olany knew his strength would not match that of T'Inara, so he wanted to put a poison in his bloodwine to weaken him. A servant saw what K'Olany had done and told Lucarsor immediately. Lucarsor called for T'Inara and let him decide on K'Olany's fate. T'Inara wanted to fight him for the dead warriors killed in vain. "After the dinner, the two men were placed in the middle of the room and began to fight using only their bat'telh, no other weapons were allowed. K'Olany was amazed to see the strength of T'Inara. He was sure that the poison would weaken him in order to kill him faster. K'Olany had been cut many times by T'Inara, but nothing fatal. "As K'Olany got weaker and weaker, T'Inara pushed his opponent down and placed his blade to the throat of the fallen man. K'Olany had no choice but to surrender. T'Inara did not remove the blade. Instead, he yelled for all to hear, I seek revenge for all the dead warriors you killed...especially my father! In one powerful blow, the blade plundered into heart of K'Olany. "When K'Olany's spirit left his body, the spirits of the dead warriors grabbed him. They each had their turn beating him and wounding him. T'Inara was then named the high warrior in theHouse of Lucarsor." Tom sat looking rather sick. He was holding a glass half full of rootbeer. B'Elanna looked at him strangely. "What's the matter Tom? Didn't you like the story?" "The story was fine B'Elanna. I think I ate too fast." His face looked a little pale. "I better get something for my stomach." "How about some Klingon food?" B'Elanna said sweetly. The thought of Klingon food pushed Tom's stomach over the edge. He quickly excused himself and ran into the bathroom. Sounds of coughing and other internal noises were heard through the door. B'Elanna just laughed as Tom walked out wiping his mouth. "Serves you right Tom for shoving all that food in your mouth. You used to do this at your sleep overs?" "We didn't do all this eating...but all the girls' sleepovers they did. I can't believe they could even eat all that junkfood! I think I'm going to lie down after I replicate some more pillows." "Here, drink this first. It should help your stomach, or so I've heard." "Thanks, what is it?" "Ginger ale. My paternal grandparents always gave it to my Dad when he ate some disagreeable Klingon food. It seemed to make him feel better." "Thanks again." "Hey did you leave me anything to eat? Oh, I see. Just a small piece of fudge and a small glass of root beer? You're a real...." she thought for a moment of what she was about to call him. "What am I Torres?" Tom asked with a sluggish voice. "You're a real kid for thinking you could actually eat all this stuff. I guess I'll turn in as well." She swept the crumbs and pillow feathers off her lap and walked over to her side of the bed. She first looked at Tom with admiring eyes. He looked so peaceful asleep. She smiled at him and was tempted to touch his cheek, but restrained herself. They were starting to be really good friends and she didn't want to do anything to ruin their friendship. B'Elanna laid down on her side of the bed and shut her eyes, once again hoping the headache would be gone when she woke up. The scene in her dream was different this time. There was a wide opened field, but they were dressed strangely, she thought. They each were wearing high boots, tight pants, waist jacket and carrying a stick about a meter long. Tom approached her pulling two leather ropes. These ropes were attached to two quadruped animals with something on their backs. Tom helped her on one animal and then hoped onto his own. She wasn't sure what to do so she followed his lead. Together they galloped at an easy pace through the meadows. After a good hour of riding, they returned to a barn and set the animals free into a holding field. They walked hand in hand, talking and laughing at one another's expressions on the horses. They headed for a cottage at the end of a dirt road. Inside was a blazing fire, some tables, and people dining. A host sat the two of them down right by the fire. They looked at a menu and ordered dinner. When the drinks arrived, Tom and B'Elanna toasted to their afternoon together. Their hands met in the center of table. As they gazed in one another's eyes, a song played in their minds. This is an insight into my life this is a strange flight I'm taking my true will carries me along This is a soul dance embracing me this is the first chance to put things right moving on guided by the light And the spirit of love is rising within me talking to you now telling you clearly the fire still burns Wisdom ages rush over me heighten my senses enlighten me lead me on eternally And the spirit of love is rising within me talking to you now telling you clearly the fire still burns I'm talking to you now the fire still burns whatever you do now you've got to give love the world still turns I'm talking to you now. Their dinners came, then their desserts, and finally their raktaginos. During the whole time they spent at the table, their eyes parted only for a few seconds. The candles were down, almost ready to self extinguish. The room was empty except for the host and a few workers. Tom took his eyes away from B'Elanna and saw that they were the last patrons. He smiled at her, squeezed her hand, and stood up to move her chair. The two walked arm in arm out back to the dirt road, which was lit only by the shining moon. After just a few steps, Tom stopped and caressed B'Elanna's face. Then slowly brought her face closer to his and gently kissed her lips. She returned the kiss and wrapped her arms around him giving him a full embrace. Tom was the first to wake up. He sat up against the headboard and stared at B'Elanna for a while. Wow, she is so beautiful. Before he could gaze at her longer, she stretched her arms and opened her eyes. She smiled at Tom's pleasant face. "What's wrong Paris?" "Oh nothing B'Elanna. I'm glad you woke up with a smile and not with your fists attacking me." He was bold enough to brush her hair off her face. It surprised him that she didn't strike him. "How are you feeling B'Elanna? My head is feeling a little better." "So is mine. Okay, why were staring at me?" "You looked really peaceful and like I've said before, you are a beautiful woman." She didn't know what to say at first. Her cheeks felt flushed and then she remembered her, or rather, their dream. "My head feels a little better too. How long do you think we were out this time?" "I have no idea. This room doesn't even have any windows so I don't know if it's day or night. When and if we get back to Voyager, our sleep schedule will be messed up." "Well, if you don't mind, I think I'll use your shower. I feel kind of gross wearing these clothes for so long. I will need to borrow something from that closet though." "Take your pick B'Elanna." He opened the closet door for her. For some odd reason, there were a few lady's clothing in the far corner. "Hey look, these weren't here before. I doubt it's a coincidence." "They better not have any monitors in the bathroom!" "If they do, then their opinions of humans lowered after I regurgitated all that junkfood." "That doesn't make me feel better Tom. Well, I guess I have no choice. I'll be out in about ten minutes." "Take your time." In the holodeck a crowd was watching a mixed doubles game of tennis. It was Janeway and Chakotay against Harry and Susan Nicoletti. The young ensigns were down by one game and it didn't look like they were going to win this one. Janeway served her ball directly in front of Susan, but then bounced quickly to the right. Thirty-Love chimed the computer. The crowd watching clapped as the Captain got ready to serve. The Doctor was perched in the judge's chair, which was place in the center, right next to the net. Janeway's next serve sent Harry lunging forward, but he missed the ball by an inch. His poor knees scraped up against the grass field. Chakotay chuckled to himself and wondered when he would finally get to hit the ball. In less than two minutes, the game was done. "Game and sets go to Captain Janeway and Commander Chakotay, again. Congratulations." The Doctor said with no enthusiasm. "Thank you Doctor. The Commander and I enjoyed these games." "Yes Captain, but you did most of the work." "Nonsense." "Great game Captain!" Harry said as he rubbed his skinned knees. "I always thought tennis was an easy game compared to Parrises Squares." "Mr. Kim, both games are hard and quite different. To think I almost gave up my lessons when my instructor embarrassed me in front of Hobbes-" "Hobbes?" "That's Mark's middle name. He started using his first name after graduating from college." Janeway's mood dimmed as she remembered her Mark. "Oh," Chakotay said quietly. "I'm sure he misses you this moment and every moment after our ships disappeared in the Badlands." Janeway didn't give a reply. She just smiled and headed out with the crowd. Neelix stopped them in the middle of one of the corridors. "Captain, Commander! Congratulations on winning the tennis tournament." "Thanks Neelix for suggesting this morale booster. How are the other tournaments going?" "Well, in the swimming relays, Engineering is beating Stellar Cartography and in dodge ball, Simms and Hudson were left without getting hit. Now that's a strange sport. You'll have to talk to Mr. Tuvok to get any results of his tactical exercise games. I did see a team covered in green paint leaving holodeck 1." "Thanks for the updates on the games. Have you participated in any of them?" "No Commander. It's just as fun to be a spectator as it is to be a participant. Well, I'm off to see what the score is in beach volleyball. See you two later. Oh don't forget about the celebration picnic tomorrow at 1530 hours in holodeck 2. The crew should be returned by then I think." "How much longer until our crew is due to be returned to us?" "In twenty eight hours Captain." "Well, since we a little more time on our hands, will you join me in watching the swimming relays?" "I'm looking forward to it. We do have to have a sporting festival again sometime. It sure beats talent night." The two walked towards holodeck 4. As the doors opened, the sounds of cheers and splashing waters were heard. The temperature in there was a bit humid for the spectator, but perfect for the participants who were cooling off in the spas as their turns ended. B'Elanna walked out of the bathroom all dressed and a towel wrapped around her hair. She was wearing a burgundy dress that was sleeveless and slim down to her mid calves. Her sleek muscular arms still had a few water drops from her shower. Tom swallowed quietly as she put her hair down and began drying it with the towel. "Well Tom?" "Hmmm...well what?" "Aren't you going to shower? The sonic showers in there are great. There are some towels in the closet inside. Be sure to bring your clothes into the bathroom with you. Remember, you're not in your quarters in Voyager." "If I was, then you wouldn't be in my bathroom using my shower, unless..." Tom stopped himself from continuing the sentence. Of course he wanted to be with B'Elanna in the way a man and woman bonded physically. Yet he knew their relationship was not even close to that level. "I'll be out in a few minutes. Can you replicate us some breakfast, please?" "Anything in particular Tom?" "Something that has no junkfood in it, or leola root." "I'll surprise you Tom." "Thanks B'Elanna." Tom walked into the bathroom and turned on the hottest setting his body could take. His thought of being with B'Elanna made him smile for a moment. She'd never give me the chance. Oh well, I better just get my shower over with. Tom stepped in and allowed the steady stream to pour down his face. Every time he closed his eyes, the smiling face of B'Elanna invaded his thoughts. It made his heart beat a bit faster every time he saw her chocolate brown eyes. Then he began to day dream. He heard her voice calling to him. He moved closer to her voice and found she was in the mess hall of Voyager. She had her eyes focused on the dark sky through the windows. Tom sat close to her and held her hand in his. "I've been waiting for you Tom. I'm so glad we're together...we'll be together for a long time." "Yes, a long time B'Elanna. I'm glad that WE will be together." He turned her face towards his and gently kissed her lips. She returned the kiss in the same manner, looked into his eyes and ran her hands gingerly down his cheeks. Tom opened up his eyes and turned the shower off. He quickly dried his wet body off and got dressed. As he stepped back into the sleeping room, he saw B'Elanna sitting on the floor with two platefuls of an old-fashioned earth breakfast. Each plate had a ham and cheese omelet, homefries, two pieces of bacon, a slice of buttered toast and quartered oranges. She sat there smiling, waiting for him to eat with her. "Thanks B'Elanna. That breakfast looks great. You didn't have to wait for me." Tom took a seat besides her. "You're welcome Tom. I asked the replicator to make it very hot so it was cooling down while you were in the bathroom. It should be warm enough to eat now." "Let's eat then. Oh, before we do, let me get us something to drink. Care for some orange or apple juice, or maybe some milk?" "I'll have some orange juice. I never liked the idea of drinking the milk of any animal, even though I know it's replicated." Tom got their drinks and sat back down. They ate almost quietly together. Awkwardly, B'Elanna thought of how they were going to discuss the dream they shared and the day dream Tom just had. "Tom, what did you think of our last dream? The one where we rode horses?" "I enjoyed it, especially since I wasn't beaten for it." He chuckled as he handed her a napkin. "But seriously B'Elanna, I do care for you and I would love to know you better." "Thanks Tom. I feel the same way." She smiled and slid over closer to him and kissed his cheek. "I do know about your daydream in the shower Tom." Tom tried not to blush, but his cheeks betrayed him. B'Elanna smiled at him and caressed his hand. "I do want a relationship with you Tom." "But...?" "But we need to take it slow, okay?" "That's fine by me. I'd like to know the woman I'll be with the next seventy years." They laughed quietly as Tom put one arm around her. The two sat in silence for a few moments. Their silence was broken by a knock at the door. Tom stood up and answered. "Who is it? Whoever you are, you could probably open the door yourself since we can't." The door opened and a brown shaded species walked in. He or she was about two and a half meters high and resembled an iguana. "I am Ghuzach of the Raptaliors. We have brought you here to study your species." B'Elanna was angered by this thing. "Haven't your species ever heard of using the word 'greetings' before kidnapping other species! It's not great being kept a prisoner and not knowing why." "My people meant no harm to you. This is the way our species do our observing." "Well what do you want now Ghuzach?" Tom asked as he held down B'Elanna's growing fists. "We will be returning you and your other shipmates in sixteen hours. You should rest." "Listen Ghuzach! Rest is all we've been doing because of these headaches you gave us. When will we be rid of them?" B'Elanna came within centimeters of the tall Raptalior, until Tom grabbed her shoulders. "Those headaches you were experiencing are coming from your own telepathy. We implanted you all with neural stimulators. When your mind works with your intended mate, then the headaches almost disappear. When you have any conflict, they will become severe which means you were not meant for one another. As we have monitored, your headaches are almost gone. My superiors will be happy that two out of ten matches we made were successful." "WHAT the heck are you talking about!!!" "The dreams you two shared were telepathic messages you had for one another. Well, I must report to my superiors "What are we supposed to do until then?" "Mate." "NO." The two said in unison. "We will not mate for your species to watch. Who in this damn quadrant think you are?" "Do whatever you wish. Good bye." Ghuzach left quickly before a plate could hit him. "Who do they think they are....all the nerves?!" "Calm down B'Elanna. Let's just be glad we'll be back on Voyager soon." "It's hard to calm a Klingon down once she gets mad. Do you think they saw and heard everything? I feel so violated right now." "How do you think I feel? Private thought and dreams should be kept private." "What did he say about this intended mate thing? And who is the other successful couple?" B'Elanna did feel something for Tom, but she didn't want it revealed in such a manner. She would have preferred it to do it her way. She thought back to the conversation they had prior to Ghuzach's visit. "Never mind what he said." Tom hoped the conversation they just shared wasn't gone from her mind. "Remember we settled to take it slow before Ghuzach came in? Let's just enjoy the time we have before we get back to Voyager, okay?" He put on the sweetest smile he had which reassured her. "Okay Tom. I'll try to dismiss what that man or thing said." "So, what do you want to do now?" "I don't know. I guess we should clean up this mess. Hey, how about we replicate some kind of game? Do you like to play cards or chess?" "Not really. Could I, by chance, draw you?" "What?" "I used to like to design my own shuttles and starships when I was younger. It gave me time to express myself, and be away from my Dad." "After drawing/sketching solid objects, you want to draw me? Well, then I'll paint you." "Great we can take turns being the model. Hand me that broken plate please." The two cleaned up their mess and replicated the proper materials for sketching and painting. Tom went first to sketch, since it was his idea. B'Elanna sat on the bed, feeling a bit strange posing for him. "Should I smile? What should I be doing?" "Just sit there and relax. I always love to see you smile so please do. Don't worry, I'll work for an hour then give you a break." Tom stared at his blank paper and than at B'Elanna. He began his sketching using a grey, charcoal pencil. He'd do a colored sketch of her after the first draft was done. Her head was drawn almost perfectly. He made her ridges, but didn't darken them. As he traced his finger on them, he became distracted in thought. He imagined himself actually caressing them from top to bottom. They felt soft and warm. "Tom. Tom." "Uh, yes B'Elanna?" "Remember we're still bonded telepathically. I know what you're thinking." "Sorry B'Elanna. I couldn't help myself. Well, it's your turn anyway." "Great. Please sit on the bed and turn your head towards the door. I want to paint you as if you were staring into the ocean." "Fine by me." He sat the way she wanted him and relaxed himself. B'Elanna began doing light strokes. Her oil paints matched his features perfectly. She started on his eyes and imagined herself staring into them. They were ice blue, clear like the ocean. Looking at them made her feel peaceful. Forgetting about their bond, she painted his lips and wanted so much to kiss them. She saw him come to her, take her in his arms and kiss her. She snapped herself out of that thought and saw Tom was smiling at her. She smiled back and continued on his portrait. Her headaches were practically gone, but where will they go after they leave? They did decide on taking their relationship slowly. No need to rush into anything so no one would get hurt. Especially her. She'd been hurt already. Well, he'd been hurt too. "Only six more hours until our crew will be returned. Should we welcome the Raptaliors on board Commander?" "I suggest we exercise caution. They did state they were not a hostile race, but I'd feel better if Lt. Tuvok had a few security ready." "Make it so Tuvok. Has everyone recuperated from the sporting events? I know my elbow is a little sprained. It also seems like a few contestants of the dodge ball game have a few bruises that need to be healed." "Most of the crew are resting up before Neelix's picnic. My knees are almost fully healed. Luckily, I didn't injure my hands." "You played a great game with Commander Chakotay and myself yesterday. Let us know if you ever want a rematch." "That probably won't be for a long time Captain." "If that's all, then dismissed. I'll see you all at the picnic." "Okay, we've been at this for hours. I'm ready for a break." Tom said as he flopped over the bed. "Just a few more minutes Tom. I'm almost done." "I'm tired of sitting B'Elanna. Let me see what it looks like." "Not until it's done." B'Elanna said adamantly moving herself in front of the canvas stand. "I showed you my sketch." "Because you were finished and I'm not yet done Paris!" "You've got five minutes and then I'm looking." B'Elanna painted quickly. She wanted her creation to be perfect. Many things in their lives weren't, so she wanted at least one thing to be. "Okay, I'm done. Could we eat before I show it to you?" "Why are you stalling?" "I just want it to dry. It'll look better that way." "Fine...have it your way. Let's have a pizza." "A what?" "A pizza! Here, you'll love it." Tom ordered an eighteen inch round pizza with extra cheese, onions, pepperoni, mushrooms and sausage. He handed her a slice and quickly ate his piece. "What do you think?" "This tastes wonderful. But why are we eating fungus with it?" "Those are mushrooms. Would you like something to drink?" "I'll get it. I'm in the mood for a chocolate shake." "Make that two please. Pizza and shakes are a weird combination, but I'd love one." B'Elanna replicated two chocolate shakes. She also replicated some fudge, whip cream, nacho chips with cheese and popcorn. "Thanks, but why did you replicate those? I think this pizza is enough for the two of us." "Well, you left me practically nothing the other night. I thought I could take it along with us when we leave." "Good thinking. We would need alot of replicator rations if we ever want to eat this way again." The two quickly finished the pizza and drank down their shakes. After Tom put his plate away, he walked over to the painting. He was stopped short by B'Elanna's tug. "Okay, before you look, please be nice about it. I'm not a professional you know." "Sure, now let go." Tom looked over at his portrait. It was fantastic, but he didn't want to tell her right away. Instead, he wanted to string her along for a while. "Great colors." "Great colors? Is that all you have to say?" "Um, my eyes are not that blue, are they? And is that supposed to be the ocean I'm supposed to be looking at?" B'Elanna just growled at him. "Leave me alone Paris." He couldn't keep up the charade anymore. "I was just kidding B'Elanna. The painting is excellent! I'm sorry." "Are you kidding? You poke fun of the painting and now you say you were kidding? Why YOU..." She lunged at him. She landed on top of him, causing the wind to be knocked out of him. Instead of injuring him with her fists, she grabbed a pillow and started swinging frantically. Although he was gratified he wasn't being beaten, he did get a few good blows to the head. "All right B'Elanna! Stop. I said I was sorry." She didn't stop so he pushed her off of him and ran to the bed for a pillow. He began swinging and laughing at the same time. This angered her even more. She grabbed the can of whip cream and sprayed him with it. He paused momentarily to wipe the white foam from his eyes. He quickly looked around to see what he could retaliate with. He gripped the nacho chips and cheese and smashed them on her hair. "Tom! I'll get you for this!" B'Elanna screamed as she shook the chips from her hair. "Hey, you're the one who sprayed me with the whip cream first." Tom said as he ducked from the swinging pillow. "You did look like a snowman for a second though." B'Elanna stopped her swinging and started to laugh. "I'm sorry Tom. I guess my temper got the better of me. You're lucky we weren't holding bat'telhs." "A snowman huh? Well that shade of cheese in your hair matches the Starfleet uniform perfectly. Look at us B'Elanna. We were clean a few hours ago." "Well at least we have a couple of hours to clean up." She gave him a deviously and then swung the pillow back at his whip creamed face. "I think we should continue this pillow fight!" "Time Mr. Kim!" "It is 1310 hours Captain." Janeway sat down on her chair and crossed her legs. "Great. Our crew and the Raptaliors should be here in about two hours." "Captain, I'm picking up a vessel quickly approaching us! It's the Raptaliors." "Oh, they're early. I wonder what happened." "Maybe they got bored of watching the crew." Chakotay said with a snicker. "Whatever the reason Commander, I hope the crew are all right." "They are hailing us Captain." "Onscreen!" A reptile looking officer stood in front of the viewscreen. He was the shade of brown with dark green patches. The top of his head had soft spikes in the center. His tongue also stuck out when he spoke. "Greetings. I am Parchemer of the Raptaliors. Welcome to our sector. We have your crew aboard our vessel and we will transport them to you as soon as possible. May I speak to whomever is in charge?" "I am Captain Kathryn Janeway of the Starship Voyager. Why did you need to kidnap our crew to study our species? Don't you normally greet visitors before rendering their ships helpless?" "We are sorry for our methods Captain, but this is the way we've always studied many species." "What kind of studies have you put my crew through?" "Can we meet aboard your ship so we can discuss the specifics. Don't worry about your crew. We did not harm them since we are not a violent race." "We'll send over the coordinates to our cargo bay." "I look forward to meeting you face to face." The view screen blanked. Janeway walked over to Lt. Tuvok's station. "I would like you and Commander Chakotay to accompany me to the Cargo Bay." "I suggest we have a security team present as well." "Not with us Tuvok. But have them ready behind the doors just in case we need them." The three officers exited the bridge and entered the turbolift. "Cargo bay 2." After the three were settled, Janeway told the transporter chief to beam Parchemer on board. Parchemer stood about two and a half meters high. He was not dressed in any uniform. His brown/green scales covered his body from tail to head. He looked around the room once and then at Captain Janeway. "It is a pleasure to meet you Captain Janeway." Janeway smiled and was glad she didn't have to duck when his tongue jutted forward. "Nice to meet you as well. Let me introduce my first officer, Commander Chakotay, and my Tactical officer, Lieutenant Tuvok. Now, I would like to get down to business. What is the nature of study you do on species you encounter?" "We study other species' mating process." "You study what?" Chakotay blurted out as his eyes popped open. "We study the mating process. During the time of mating, in our species, the male sends a signal to the female. If the female accepts the male as her mate, she releases a hormone throughout her body which the male can recognize as being ready to conceive. I can tell you about other species we have encountered. They are all very fascinating to us since we are a scientific race." "We, mostly humanoids onboard, do not perform any kinds of studies. Such practices are written in a scientific matter, but it is all very private." Lt. Tuvok said emotionless as usual. "I agree with my officer. How dare you invade my ship and then my crew's privacy." "None of them physically mated. Let me explain. We took ten couples who we thought seemed to be a good match. We implanted each of them with a neural device to stimulate telepathic dream messages to share with their chosen mate. Then we studied each of their reactions." "How were their reactions?!" "Unfortunately, eight out of ten couples were simply mismatched. When that was discovered right away, we removed the implants and kept them in their separate quarters." Parchemer looked at a band on his wrist and spoke something into it. Then the sixteen crew members appeared in the cargo bay, looking rather relieved to be aboard their on ship. "Welcome back to Voyager." Janeway addressed her crew. "You may return to your own quarters after you see the Doctor. I expect a full report by 0800 hours tomorrow." Janeway watched the men and women leave the cargo bay. They all seemed happy to be back. Next, she turned back to her guest. "And the other two couples?" Janeway was hoping he wasn't too specific about them. "This first couple had a general liking for one another. The male seemed very timid to the female, so the female became less aggressive. They were put in the same quarters, but did not mate. You humanoids are strange, you find your intended mate, but you do not act." "We humanoids don't usually act until we know it's our mate for life. We have something called courtship, engagement, then marriage. Marriage is the union of the two mates. Of course there are some who just mate for the time being, and then proceed to another relationship...but that 's another story." "Yours is a very complicated species. Well, here is the first couple who we believe is a good match for the union you spoke of." In the same manner as the others, two crew members appeared. It looked as though they were sitting on the floor, huddled together in front of a fire. They were Ensigns Meaghan Delaney and Gerron Tem. They looked at the four in front of them and their faces turned deep red. Meaghan stood up and spoke. "Captain, Commander. We were, um, sitting in front of the fire waiting. Ghuzach told us we'd be returned two hours from now." "No need for any explanations now Ensign. You two go directly to Sickbay and then to your quarters. I expect a report at 0800 hours." Gerron also stood up and followed Meaghan through the doors. Chakotay shook his head as the two of them left. He knew Megan had a crush on him, but thought Gerron was too shy of a person to even speak to a woman. Then it dawned on him that Tom and B'Elanna were the next couple. I hope they're not doing anything to embarrass themselves when they come aboard Chakotay thought. "Now the next couple is extremely complicated. They baffled our top scientists." "How did they do that sir?" Janeway placed her hands on her hips and turned from Chakotay to Parchemer and then back to Chakotay. "Well, at first the implants worked positively during their first telepathic dreaming. So, our scientists put them together and strengthened their dreams. This plan then proved negative when the female disliked her dreams." "Did you separate them then?" Tuvok inquired. "No we didn't because they were a fascinating couple. They were more comfortable with the first dream and the slower mating process. They are probably engaged in 'courtship', like you said Commander. They are strong minded individuals, especially the female. We also saw that the male was willing to comply to her pace, without thinking of his own. We weren't sure what pace he was more comfortable with. They were both very considerate of the other as well. After we told them about the implants, the female became furious, and the male shocked. We removed the implants an hour ago, and the two are still together." "Can you beam them aboard now?" "Certainly Captain." Tom quickly replicated a bottle of root beer, shook it and opened it in B'Elanna's face. The foam and liquid squirted all over her face and hair. She couldn't decide whether to laugh or be furious with him. Instead, she replicated the s'mores he spoke about and smashed it on his head. The chocolate just oozed down to his cheeks. Tom paused for a moment to catch his breath from all the laughter. B'Elanna laughed as well, but used this chance to get him with another pillow swing to the head. He tackled her and tried to pull her pillow away, but wasn't successful. She rolled from under him and stood up getting ready to give another blow. Tom was getting up on his knees when all of a sudden... ...they were in the Cargo bay. B'Elanna didn't instantly recognize they were materializing on board. She did after she swung the pillow over his head. Before she could laugh, she saw Captain Janeway, Commander Chakotay and Lt. Tuvok with their mouths agape. She stood their looking at the pillow in her hand and then at Tom with the same embarrassed look on his face. Tom burst out laughing because he couldn't imagine what the others could be thinking. Here are Janeway's two lieutenants covered in food and having a pillow fight. B'Elanna tried unsuccessfully to hold in her laughter. Chakotay had the same reaction, but he didn't laugh. He smirked instead. "These two are a fascinating couple. They seem to be engaged in some kind of 'fight', but they are also doing some kind of bonding." Parchemer pointed to Tom and B'Elanna. "We believe they are a good match for one another, but we cannot predict when it is they will mate." "Which is fine by them, I'm sure." Captain Janeway interjected. "Lts. Torres and Paris, please report to Sickbay and then clean up in your own quarters. I expect a full report by 0730 hours in my ready room. Dismissed." The two quickly left and headed for the turbolifts, still laughing as soon as the doors closed. Janeway turned to her guest. "Thank you for not harming my crew, but I still do not like your methods of getting them. Perhaps next time our people meet, send a standard greeting first. If you want to learn more about our species, all you have to do is ask nicely." "Thank you Captain, we will keep that in mind. Now, to keep our entire promise, we will send a team to repair the damages we caused. Your ship should be ready to leave this space in about two hours." "Thank you Parchemer. You can beam them aboard and an escort will show them to where the repairs are needed." Tom stared at B'Elanna while they were in the turbolift. He couldn't help but smile at her beautiful face. "You know, you look great." "Ha ha Tom. I feel really disgusting right now." "You had fun though, right?" "Yes, but what do you think the Captain was thinking when we materialized in front of them?" "She probably rolled her eyes the moment you knocked me down with a pillow. She must have guessed we were arguing again. I'm sure that guy told them what they did to us." The turbolift doors opened. "I don't really want to know what he said to them." The two walked into Sickbay, luckily the crowd was gone. The Doctor greeted them with his usual sarcasm. "Why aren't I surprised to see you lieutenants? You two seem to show up often, usually together. So, what did you do this time?" "We were having a food and pillow fight." Tom said with a large smirk on his face. "You don't seem injured. No, wait, there is a bruise on your left arm. What caused this? Surely it wasn't a marshmallow from your hair?" "No Doctor, I punched him." "Oh, of course you did Lt. Torres. Was it in retaliation for the yellow cheese in your hair? What is Neelix serving at his picnic?" The two lieutenants just burst out laughing again. The Doctor rolled his eyes as he tried to finish scanning them. Since they weren't in need of any more medical attention, he told them to leave. "Okay, I'm done with you both. Please leave Sickbay for the injured and please clean yourselves up. These biobeds are filthy!" "Thanks Doc." Tom followed B'Elanna out back to the turbolift. Each told the computer of their destination. "So, after your report, do you want to meet for dinner?" "I don't think I could look at food the same way now Tom. Didn't the Doctor say something about Neelix's picnic?" "Oh yeah. I'll call Harry after I shower. I'm sure he'll fill us in with the details." "Well, then I'll talk to you later." "Yes B'Elanna. I would like to talk to you later. If Neelix's picnic is still around, can I pick you up and the two of us can meet Harry there?" "Fine Tom. I'll be ready in thirty minutes." B'Elanna walked out of the turbolift and headed for her quarters. Her heart began to quicken as her recollections of their dreams invaded her thoughts. She was thankful that their implants were removed. Tom did want to find out how to make my heart quicken she smiled to herself as she entered her quarters. B'Elanna quickly removed her clothing and started the sonic shower. The warm water felt soothing as it sprayed her face, neck and then her back. She used both hands to shake off the excess nachos from her hair. She laughed to herself as she lathered her short hair. As she closed her eyes, she saw Tom's face smiling at her. It wasn't the smile of a joker, but one of a tender, sweet man. She imagined his hand softly caressing her cheeks. Oh Tom, where do we go from here? She turned the water off and dried herself off. She put on some come casual clothes and read a PADD while she waited for Tom to pick her up. Tom quickly showered so he can get in touch with Harry. As he put his pants on, he contacted Harry. "Paris to Kim." "Glad you're back Tom. How was your leave?" "It was a forced leave, but I had a great time. What's been happening here? We heard the Doctor talk about Neelix having a picnic." "We had a sporting event: swimming, tennis, dodge ball, beach volleyball and swimming. We had a blast since! The picnic is a celebration of the closing of the games. You should come down here." "B'Elanna and I will be there shortly. I have to go pick her now." "You and B'Elanna? What happened when YOU were gone?" "Nothing. We'll be there shortly. Paris out." Harry was left dumb struck for a moment until Kes brought him a drink. He smiled at her and the two sat in lounge chairs to wait for Tom and B'Elanna. Kes didn't compete, but she did swim gracefully in the resort's pool. Her petite slender body in the that one piece bathing suit kept most men's eyes fixated on her, including Harry. Tom took a moment to breathe before exiting his quarters. B'Elanna knew he was interested in her. Now he knows she has an interest in him. He was happy about that and he wanted this relationship to work. They worked well together, but they also argued well. He thought back to the resort after they were brought back from the Argala habitat. He had been sitting, sipping a cup of hot tea. B'Elanna sat down next to him and they forgave each other without either of them saying sorry. It was understood. They just smiled at each other after she said 'it feels good to be warm again'. And he agreed. He walked down the corridors and neared her quarters. He paused before he rang her door. "Come in." "Hi B'Elanna. Are you ready to go?" "Yes, let me put this away. Have a seat Tom. So, what's this picnic about?" "While we were kidnapped, the entire crew had a sports competition event. They couldn't repair the ship, so Neelix, our great morale officer, had this great event to boost the crew's spirits. This picnic is the celebration of the ending of the games." "Glad they all had a great time." B'Elanna snapped sarcastically. "Oh Tom, could we talk before we go. I've had a few things on my mind since we got back." "Sure, I'd like to talk as well." "Let me start. Now don't interrupt." Tom just nodded so she continued onward. "I'm sure you remembered everything we shared in your quarters; I know I remember it very well. Did we share that first dream?" Tom nodded but didn't say a word. He enjoyed that first dream...the sight of B'Elanna in the pink, silk toga. Her arms outstretched to him and that song. He felt as though he did kiss her soft lips. "Well, I enjoyed that dream more than I care to admit. I know we talked about taking it slow. I hope you still want to be with me. I would like to get to know you better Tom." "Can I talk now?" "Yes Tom, go ahead." "Remember when we were in the caves in Sakari? I did want you then and I couldn't deny that, but I wanted our friendship more. You are unlike any woman I've ever met and I would like to know more of you. You are a very special person to me B'Elanna Torres. Us taking it slow is fine for me. I want to know everything about you, good and bad. I want you to know everything about me as well." Tom put his arms around her and kissed the ridges on her forehead. Then his fingers went through her hair, and then back to the front of her face. He smiled so tenderly and seriously at her. B'Elanna's heart had been beating faster as he was speaking to her. Now their eyes were vulnerable to the other's. She could see and feel his sincerity in those clear, blue eyes. She smiled and went on her tiptoe to brush a kiss on his lips. Oh the warmth of his mouth made her recollect that first kiss they shared in the Sakari caves. She did want him then, not because of the blood fever infected on her by Vorick, but because she had been attracted to him. He had grown in the three years since boarding Voyager, so had she. She learned to be trusting of others, especially of Tom. Harry was a dear friend, but it wouldn't go beyond friendship. Her relationship with Tom was different, and different was better. They kissed each other once more, but this time it was a more powerful kiss. It felt as if fireworks had been exploding over their heads. What seemed like hours was just mere minutes. Their lips parted and each stepped one foot backward. Their smiles remained and their hands intertwined. Tom opened her door and off they went to Neelix's picnic. The new couple were met by confused eyes through the corridors. Everyone knew they were friends and most of the time when this couple was together, they would be arguing. They came to Holodeck 2 and heard the sounds of talking and splashing of water. Inside, Neelix's resort was running with a few additions. There were large tables set up, balloons, and plenty of food. The bar had three extra workers to cater to the celebrants needs. Tom grabbed two tropical drinks and handed one to B'Elanna. They walked around the resort, greeting their fellow shipmates. As it was in the corridors, the eyes gave them the same looks. They just smiled until they saw Meaghan and Gerron sitting so cozily together . "Let's go say hi." "Why Tom? Do you think they were the other couple Ghzuach was talking about?" "Well a week ago, Gerron couldn't even whisper a hello to Meaghan and now they're sitting so close. I'm certain they were the other couple. Good for Meaghan. She's had a crush on him for a while now." "Yeah, but weren't the two of you dating before?" "That was long time ago. I haven't been interested in her for over a year, and I'm sure she no longer thinks of me. Come on, we'll just talk for a few minutes." The two walked hand in hand over to the ensigns' table. Gerron noticed them coming so he stood up right away. "Good afternoon lieutenants. Care to join us?" "Yes we'd love to, and we're at a picnic, not on duty." Tom helped B'Elanna sit down. "So, did you two enjoy being away while the rest of the crew had a sporting event?" Meaghan took her eyes away for Gerron long enough to answer. "I'm glad we were away. It gave the two of us the time alone to talk. But it would have been nice to watch Captain Janeway and Commander Chakotay beat Harry and Susan in mixed doubles." "It would have been great to watch you swim, if we were here." B'Elanna said as she squeezed Tom's hand. She finished her drink and gave Tom a signal that the new couple look like they wanted to be alone. he got the message right away. "Well, Meaghan and Gerron, we should be going. We have a few people to find." "See you later Tom, B'Elanna." Meaghan said as she kept her smile on Gerron. Tom and B'Elanna quickly got up and moved on. They kept their hands together as they walked around the resort. They greeted some of the picnic goers until they spotted Harry and Kes. The two were in deep conversation, and sitting pretty close as well. Kes' eyes were bright blue, but now they were sparkling. Harry's smile was quite genuine. Was he interested in Kes beyond their friendship? Tom and B'Elanna exchanged looks before approaching them. It was obvious they were thinking the same thing about Kes and Harry. "Hi Kes. Hi Harry." Tom said as he smiled at his friends and keeping his arm around B'Elanna's waist. "Oh, hi you two. Kes and I were talking about going ice skating afterwards. Care to join us?" "Ice skating? I haven't done that since I was fourteen. What about you B'Elanna?" "I've never been ice skating. Remember that Klingons really don't like the winter weather." "Oh yeah, I remember." Tom remembered holding her numb feeling hands, trying to warm them up while the two of them were trapped in the Argala biosystem. "Harry was telling me how humans enjoy ice skating and playing a rough game called hockey. I would love to try to skate. It will be a new experience. Are you sure you won't join us?" "No thanks Kes. I don't think I'll enjoy landing on my rear that much. It's been too long. Well, did you two enjoy Voyager's Olympics while some of us were away?" "I was only a spectator, but I enjoyed everything I saw, especially seeing Captain Janeway play tennis. She is a wonderful athlete. I quite don't understand dodge ball, but the participants looked like they loved it." "Hey B'Elanna, your Engineering crew beat Stellar Cartography in the swimming relays. You should have seen them!" "Wow! It would have been fun seeing them hustle in the water like they do when the warp drive goes out of control. Too bad Tom wasn't here to show off his swimming skills." B'Elanna gave Tom a little squeeze on his shoulder and smiled. Harry and Kes notice this new couple and decide to move on. "Well you two, we'll see you later. Enjoy the food! Neelix outdid himself this time." "See you later Harry. Good-bye Kes." Tom watched Harry and Kes leave the table and then moved his chair closer to B'Elanna's. "Alone at last, well, sort of. Can I get you something to eat?" "Sure, what do you think Neelix made for this picnic?" "Who knows but Harry did say he outdid himself. Let me surprise you." "Okay Tom, but you have to taste everything first." B'Elanna smiled as she let Tom's hand go. Everyone in the holodeck could tell that they were now the ship's 'new couple.' She didn't mind the eyes staring at the two of them. At least the betting polls of all the rumors will end. "I'm back and you'll be pleased with the food." Tom was carrying two full plates. "Looks great, but, I don't think I could eat so much." "Then we'll bring a doggy bag back to each of our quarters." "A what?" "Nevermind. Here, dig in. After we eat, let's leave. I'm suddenly exhausted and we've got to work on those reports for Captain Janeway." "You'll get no arguments from me." B'Elanna took a bite of her food and was pleased with the taste. The two ate what they could and packed the rest. They exited the holodeck hand in hand, the same way the walked in. Captain Janeway sat in her ready room at 0720 waiting for her two lieutenants to show up. She managed a little laugh as she recalled B'Elanna knocking Tom down with a pillow. And there clothes! Their clothes were stained with food. I wonder what those two were up to. Well, I never know about them. "Computer, time please." "It is 0726 hours." the voice answered with it's usual monotone voice. Before Janeway could sit back down, a chime was wrung," "Come." Tom and B'Elanna walked in looking well rested and cheery. They each handed their reports and stood at attention. "Please have a seat you two while I read your reports." "Aye Captain." They said in unison after giving each other puzzled looks. "Okay, Lt. Torres, I see here that you woke up without your uniform when you were first abducted." "Yes Captain." "How did you get into Tom's quarters?" "Well, if you would read down a bit, you'll see after I threw a fit, I was transported there, dressed of course." "Oh, I see. I also see you tried to escape, but was unsuccessful at locating an exit. Now, Lt. Paris, who started the food fight?" Tom first smiled and then quickly composed himself when he saw Janeway's eyebrow raise. "Well, she did, after I got her mad." "Both your reports give little detail on the implants you were given. Any explanations?" "Well Captain," Tom began, "the neural implants given to us at our abduction connected us telepathically through thoughts and dreams. Well, we both feel those thoughts and dreams should be kept private and out of official reports." Janeway looked at the two of them for one very long minute. She really didn't want to know what each of them dreamed of the other. She did want to know how this will affect their work now that they are in a relationship. "Well you two, you don't need to tell me anything personal. I would like to know if anything that happened will affect your working together in any negative way." "This will not affect our working together Captain." B'Elanna straightened herself up in her chair. "I'm sure you've heard the rumors of the two of us. Well, we are dating now, but that will not hinder our working relationship. Our private life will be kept out of the bridge, engineering, or anywhere else we are to be working." "I'm glad to hear that B'Elanna. Dismissed." The two got up and headed for the door but then Janeway had one more thing to add. "Oh, one more thing lieutenants, no food fights allowed on Voyager." She said with a smile. Tom and B'Elanna just giggled as they left. B'Elanna said her good-bye to Tom before heading back into the turbolift. "Well Tom, I'll see you later." "Can we meet for lunch?" "I'm not sure." B'Elanna kept her eyes on the bridge crew who were trying not to stare at them. "I'll have to see how much repair was done to the engines. I'll send you a message at 1100 hours okay." "I'm looking forward to hearing from you." He moved a bit closer to whisper in her ear. "I'd like to kiss you good-bye, but I don't think Commander Chakotay would appreciate any officers doing that." He just squeezed her shoulder and smiled as the doors shut. He was looking forward to hearing from B'Elanna in four hours, and he was also looking forward to spending as much time as he could with her on their voyage home. B'Elanna was rather happy inside as she rode inside the turbolift. She thought back to when she was captured by the Vidiians, who separated her. Tom was there for her. She thought back to when she, Tom and Harry worked on the warp ten experiment. She thought back to the planet of Sakari, how Tom refused to let their friendship get ruined. He even said afterwards that he didn't mind seeing her Klingon side again. The bet Tom won had forced her to be in the holodeck doing Klingon calisthenics. Then they were trapped in the Argala habitat, Tom warming her hands. They both quickly separated after being transported into the warmer Earth habitat. Everyone saw them holding each other so closely. Well, I guess everyone will have to get used to seeing us like that until Voyager gets home she said to herself as she stepped into engineering.The End.