New fic: Compass Rose, 7/7, Star Trek: Voyager, J/7
Title: Compass Rose
Author: chilly_flame
Fandom: Voyager
Pairing: J/7
Rating: M
Disclaimer: All the characters included herein are property of Paramount. Alas.
---
EPILOGUE
Several Weeks Later
Seven took a breath and adjusted her blouse. Behind her, Beverly waited patiently. “Nervous?” Beverly asked.
Seven tilted her head. “Not quite. More apprehensive, yet I’m also excited. I’m looking forward to the looks on everyone’s faces,” she admitted sheepishly.
“Think they’ll be surprised?”
“Some will, certainly, but I think a few won’t be at all.” Seven didn’t know if Chakotay would be at the party; she’d done her best not to ask Harry about all the attendees. He would be shocked, Seven was sure, while Tom Paris would probably immediately collect credits from whatever betting pool he’d set up about her and Kathryn. He had remarkable insight into personal relationships, though he used to mask it with bravado. That superficial quality had faded now with Miral growing up, and rumor had it, there was another baby on the way.
Beverly’s hand rested on Seven’s shoulder. “I’ll protect you if anyone goes berserk,” she said, and Seven could hear the smile in her voice.
Seven touched her hand once, and nodded. She rang the chime.
Less than ten seconds passed when Libby appeared in the doorway. “Seven! Perfect timing. Come in, come in,” she said, kissing her on the cheek. “Hi Captain Crusher,” Libby added, a little more formally, holding out her hand. “I’m happy you could make it.”
“Please,” Beverly said, “call me Beverly. It’s the holidays, and I’m off duty.” She leaned in and kissed Libby’s cheek, and Seven was charmed to see the mild blush that pinked Libby’s face. “We brought the turkeys. Seven’s been planning for days.”
“Wonderful. Harry, come and help me,” Libby said, quickly joined by Harry. He was as bright and cheerful as he’d been the day Seven met him. She thought about their first meetings, his youthful crush, and the way their association had turned to real friendship over the last few years. She was again reminded of the luck she’d been granted. Seven handed him a stasis container, while Libby helped Beverly with the other.
“Hey, Seven. I’m so glad you’re here.” He gave her a one-armed hug, and she held him gratefully.
“Thank you for having us, Harry. Is everyone already here?”
“Not everyone.” He led her into the kitchen, placing the turkey on the granite-topped island. “Tom and B’Elanna are on their way with Miral; they were at Tom’s parents earlier, and I got the impression someone threw a temper tantrum. Though I’m not entirely sure who threw it,” he said with a grin. “But Joe is here,” he added, with a funny little grimace. “It’s still odd to call him that. He seems happy, though. And he’s got a very pretty blonde on his arm. Sam and Naomi made it, and Tuvok and T’Pel. And uh, Chakotay just got here a few minutes ago. He brought someone. Listen, Seven, when you see his date, don’t freak out, okay?”
Seven raised an eyebrow. “’Freak out?’ Why would I?”
“Well, let’s just say she looks kind of familiar. I mean, at least to me, she does.”
“Oh.” Seven was confused but she assumed she’d figure it out soon enough.
“And the Admiral’s not here yet. She promised she’d come, but said she might be late.”
Seven nodded. This was not a surprise. Kathryn had kissed her goodbye this morning just after 6, and Seven had wished her luck that things would be resolved quickly. They’d wanted their plans locked up as soon as possible so they could enjoy the coming holidays in peace and quiet.
“I’m still amazed she agreed to come!” Harry exclaimed. “I’ve been trying to talk her into it for years, and she always begged off for one reason or another. Libby and I saw her now and then, but our Voyager reunions are never the same without her.”
Seven knew exactly how he felt. “I am pleased she’ll be in attendance.”
“I think she’s bringing someone too. She said to set an extra place at the table.”
Seven tried very hard not to smile. She knew who Kathryn’s date was. “Ah,” was all she said.
“Anyway, come in and see everyone!” He took her by the elbow and led her out into the spacious great room, announcing to the group, “Seven’s here!”
Almost a dozen heads swiveled in their direction, and she was greeted with smiles almost across the board. Naomi was the first to react, bolting from her seat on the couch, practically leaping up the few steps into her arms. “Seven!” Seven wrapped the girl in a tight hug, surprised at her height. Sometimes she still expected Naomi to look like a child, even though she’d become a young woman. “I’m so glad you’re here! I’ve been waiting.”
“I am sorry for the delay. The turkeys took a little longer than expected.”
Samantha peeked over Naomi’s shoulder. “They always do. Hello, Seven.” Sam kissed her cheek, and Seven reached out for her hand while still holding Naomi.
She let Naomi drag her down into the conversation pit, keeping one arm about the girl’s shoulder while greeting her other old friends. She nodded to both Tuvok and his wife, promising to speak more to them soon, and hugged the Doctor. Joe, she reminded herself. Naomi was soon distracted by Henry Kim, who was babbling baby talk across the room, and promised that she’d be back shortly.
Left with the doctor and the woman with him, Seven said, “Hello, Joe.” The name sounded odd in her mouth.
“Hello, Seven,” he replied, chipper as ever. “Allow me to introduce Nicole Jefferson. Nicole, this is my very dear friend Seven of Nine, otherwise known as Annika Hansen. She was our astrometrics expert on Voyager and now works at the Theoretical Propulsion Group.”
“How marvelous,” Nicole said. “It’s lovely to meet you.”
“And you,” Seven replied, shaking Nicole’s hand. She was as lovely as Harry had implied. The doctor hadn’t brought anyone to a Voyager reunion before now, and she wondered how serious it was between them. “How do you two know each other?”
The Doctor smiled, almost smug as Nicole explained. “I work the Dabo tables at Deep Space 7. We met when Joe was staying over for a conference on artificial life forms and sentience.”
Seven was a little surprised. “Dabo. I know the game.”
The Doctor continued, “Of course, Nicole is just being modest. Dabo is only her day job. Last year she authored a top-selling holonovel. She finds working the tables a great source of inspiration.”
Nicole shrugged, and her smile was infectious. “I could probably leave the tables, but it’s awfully fun. And I meet people from dozens of species every day. It certainly helps keep the creative juices flowing.”
Seven nodded, now seeing what brought them together. “Have you worked on any joint projects?”
“Not yet,” Nicole replied. “I’ve got one more novel on my contract, and then we’ll see. In the meantime, Joe’s working on another novel.”
“I am glad to hear it,” Seven said. “I’m sure it will be a success.”
The Doctor shrugged. “We shall see. And you, Seven? Where have you been keeping yourself?”
Seven took a breath, and just as she was going to tell the lie she and Kathryn had agreed on, they were interrupted by Chakotay, and a slight woman who accompanied him. “Hello, Annika. Sorry to interrupt, Doctor.”
“Not at all,” the Doctor replied smoothly, though he was frowning.
Seven barely heard him, because she was trying very hard not to stare at Chakotay’s date. The woman had shoulder length auburn hair, blue eyes, and a face that bore a striking resemblance to one Kathryn Janeway. Seven swallowed, attempting to convince herself that the resemblance wasn’t that obvious, but as she recalled what Harry had said earlier, she knew it wasn’t her imagination. ”Hello Chakotay.”
“This is my girlfriend, Sarah.” The word automatically made Seven’s hackles rise; she remembered Chakotay referring to her as his “girlfriend” five years ago, and it somehow seemed silly to her ears. It still did. But that was probably because it was Chakotay, who she knew far better than she wished to. “How are you? Did you bring anyone?” he asked.
Of course he wanted to know. She ignored him and held out her hand to Sarah, who likely didn’t pick up on the tension that had just sprung up. “Nice to meet you, Sarah.”
The Doctor and Nicole drifted out of their little circle, and Seven wished fervently that they’d stayed. “And you, Annika,” Nicole replied. “Chakotay’s told me a lot about you.”
Hopefully not everything, Seven thought. Particularly not the fact that Seven had punched a hole in his hallway the night they terminated their association. “How nice. How long have you and Chakotay been seeing one another?”
Chakotay replied, “Almost six months now. Sarah’s an archeologist on Earth-we met in New Mexico.”
“How nice,” Seven said. Sarah went on to describe the work she did in New Mexico, while Seven only half listened. The other half of her brain was cataloguing all of the ways that the woman didn’t measure up to the real Kathryn Janeway. She wasn’t as beautiful, or intense, or brilliant, though she was admittedly intelligent, not to mention very friendly. Perhaps Sarah was a better match for Chakotay than Kathryn or Seven ever could be. In a moment of insight, Seven wondered if Chakotay had pursued her on Voyager as a way to get under Kathryn’s skin. She’d heard the gossip about the Captain and the Commander for a long time before she had ever formed a bond with Chakotay, but she’d never believed a word of it. The Captain would not have embarked on such a relationship with her XO, particularly after the friction that developed during their last 18 months on the ship.
Seven’s mind was swirling, but Sarah and Chakotay were both watching her as if waiting for her reply. “I’m sorry, what did you say?” she asked.
“Did you bring anyone tonight?” Chakotay said for a second time.
“Oh, I brought Captain Beverly Crusher. There,” Seven said, gesturing toward Beverly as she played with Henry as Naomi looked on.
“As your date?” Sarah asked. “I thought she--”
“Is married, to Admiral Jean-Luc Picard,” Seven finished for her. “Beverly is a very dear friend.” To put it mildly. “As is Jean-Luc.”
Chakotay chuckled. “Are they on the outs? I haven’t seen Jean-Luc here--”
“No, they are not,” Seven said firmly. “They are very much in love, but Jean-Luc had urgent business at Headquarters this afternoon that could not wait. He will be here soon.”
Sarah glanced at Chakotay, and Seven saw her discomfort. “Of course, Annika, I didn’t mean to imply anything,” Chakotay said. At least he had the grace to look ashamed at his assumption.
Seven nodded imperiously. She tried not to have regrets in her life, yet somehow she could not help but wishing she’d made different choices when it came to the former Commander of Voyager.
“They are a very high-profile pair,” Chakotay said. “I didn’t realize you knew them.”
Seven glanced over at Beverly, feeling the familiar sense of affection and belonging she’d felt almost since the day they’d met five years before. “They are very caring people,” Seven said simply. “Would you excuse me? I need to check on the food.”
Chakotay’s smile faded, but Sarah just patted her on the arm and said, “Of course! Don’t let us keep you. We’ll talk more later.”
Seven left them and returned to the kitchen, where Libby was adding seasoning to a selection of vegetables in a casserole dish. “Hey,” Libby said. “I saw you with Chakotay.” Her eyes were very wide as her voice dropped into a whisper. “Did you get a load of Sarah? She looks just like the Admiral! Well, not just like, but they could be sisters.”
“Yes, I saw.” Seven sighed. “It made me uncomfortable, but I am not sure why.”
Libby rolled her eyes. “It’s weird. That’s why. I mean, I guess he has a type. Harry always said he had a thing for her.” Libby seemed to remember exactly who she was talking to. “I mean, before you two got together.”
“And after, apparently.” Seven resolved not to let the issue bother her any further. Especially because Kathryn would soon join her at the party, and Chakotay would know. Once more she wondered how he’d react. “Not that I judge him for it. Kathryn is a remarkable woman who deserves as much admiration as she receives.”
Libby grinned. “She sure does. I hope she gets here soon. It’s been ages since we’ve seen her, and Harry’s really missed her. She’s-I don’t know. Special.” She laughed at herself. “I guess you know that though. You all do.”
“I know very well,” Seven agreed. Very special, she thought.
A moment later the door chimed, and Libby asked, “Wanna get that? It’s probably Tom and the brood.”
“Of course.” Seven went to the door and opened it, revealing the Paris-Torres family. Miral gazed up at Seven, who leaned down and held out her hand solemnly. “Hello, Miral. It’s very good to see you.”
“Hello, Seven of Nine,” the girl said, very seriously. Above her, B’Elanna cracked up.
“Goodness, we’re awfully formal, aren’t we,” she drawled, yanking Seven into a full body hug. “Come ‘ere, Borg. It’s great to see you.”
“Sure is,” Tom said, clapping her on the shoulder and hugging her too. “Too long since the last time. I’m glad you could be here. And that we made it in one piece. We had kind of a tough morning.” He looked exhausted, while B’Elanna appeared the picture of health. And she was very definitely pregnant.
“And who’s this?” Seven said, nodding in the direction of B’Elanna’s belly.
“Miral’s baby brother, scheduled to arrive in about three months.” Miral turned up her nose and stomped into the hallway, abandoning the three of them without a word. B’Elanna sighed. “She’s sort of over it now that it’s happening. After two years of complaining about wanting a sister, the idea of a brother threw her for a loop.”
“She’ll come around though,” Tom said as they carried their supplies into the entryway. “Right?” He looked almost desperate.
“Absolutely,” Seven said, schooling her features carefully, though she found herself wanting to laugh. Poor Tom. Despite his obvious fatigue, he looked as happy as he ever had, and Seven was pleased for him. For all of them.
“When’s dinner?” Tom said, heading into the kitchen. B’Elanna rolled her eyes and followed him, and Seven trailed after them with a grin.
---
Kathryn looped her arm through Jean-Luc’s as they approached the door to Harry’s apartment in the center of San Francisco. She’d always loved the views from the rooftop building, and this clear and crisp night would be no exception. The fog would roll in later; she hoped they could watch it come across the water and envelop the bridge. Her second guest trailed behind them, carrying a bouquet of flowers so enormous it filled both his arms.
“You ready?” Jean-Luc asked.
Kathryn nodded. “If I haven’t said it before, thank you, a thousand times, Jean-Luc.”
“My pleasure. You made a fine admiral, but you’ll do far better where you belong. We both know it.”
“I agree,” Reg Barclay piped up over Kathryn’s shoulder. “You belong in space. Just a little closer than 75,000 light years away though.”
Kathryn grinned, and touched the four new pips evenly spaced along her collar. They felt familiar. Right.
Harry was waiting when the door slid open, and he clapped his hands once. “The party’s here! Come in, Admiral,” he exclaimed, pulling her into a warm hug that would never have happened before Voyager’s return. But Harry, of all of them, was more like a son to her than she’d ever tell a soul; his boyish charm, his good nature, his desire to be the best made her latent maternal instincts flare up. Particularly at this moment, as he welcomed her into his home for a family holiday. “Admiral Picard, welcome. And you must be the surprise guest, Reg! I’m so glad you’re here,” Harry said once he pulled back from Kathryn. Harry shook both their hands and led them into the entryway. “Libby’s just about ready to put the turkey on the table--”
Kathryn saw Harry’s eyes move to her collar, and he froze right away. No one said a word, until Harry’s hand rose and motioned toward her throat. “What’s that?”
Kathryn raised an eyebrow and touched her pips again. “You mean these?”
Harry nodded, silent.
“Well, the brass decided that I was a rotten admiral, so they kicked me down a notch. As of this afternoon, I’m a plain old Captain again.”
Harry’s joy, disbelief and wonder melded into an expression Kathryn would not soon forget. He hugged her again, emotion getting the better of both of them. “Captain,” he whispered in her ear, and the sound of the word was so sweet it brought tears to her eyes.
“That’s right, Harry,” she said, patting his shoulder and trying to hold everything in. “That’s right.”
“Harry, you’re hogging the guests,” Tom Paris bellowed, and Kathryn jumped in surprise. She wiped her eyes as subtly as she could, chuckling, and Harry did the same.
“Admiral! Or Admirals, I should say--”
“You got it right the first time, Tom,” Harry crowed. “Captain Janeway’s our guest tonight.”
Tom gaped, and this time, Kathryn’s laugh bubbled up. “Don’t worry, I’ll put the pips away for the dinner, though I have to say it’s been nice having them on again after all these years.”
“Unbelievable. Captain,” Tom said, coming up to her. “Captain.” He hugged her too, lifting her right off her feet. She didn’t mind at all. “We sure have missed you.”
“Me too, Tommy,” Kathryn said, and she suspected Tom knew just what she meant. “Is B’Elanna here?”
“Sure is. Come in.” He held out a hand and shook Jean-Luc’s, saying, “Pardon my manners, I was just a little surprised, that’s all. And Reg! Fantastic. Always a pleasure. Nice to see you too, Admiral Picard.”
“I’d appreciate if you called me Jean-Luc, tonight, if you don’t mind, Tom,” he said. “I’m off duty, and we’re all family here.”
Kathryn registered the surprise on both Harry and Tom’s faces; she supposed that Seven hadn’t really explained Beverly’s presence tonight, much less Jean-Luc’s. “Of course, sir,” Harry said, “Er, Jean-Luc.”
“Harry,” Kathryn said, patting his cheek gently, “Never change.”
He grinned, his cheeks flushing in a familiar manner. “Get in here and see everyone. And I hope you don’t mind being the center of attention because those pips are going to be the main topic of conversation for a while, without a doubt.”
Kathryn thought that he might be wrong, but only time would tell. She took a deep breath and found herself in the main room, looking down on so many friends and colleagues she hadn’t seen all together for quite some time. It felt homey and wonderful, exactly what she needed on Thanksgiving. Her mother had initially balked at her absence from their dinner table today, but the week she and Seven had spent at the Bloomington house more than made up for it. Her eyes traveled over the many faces, fastening on Seven last. Right away, Seven glanced up, and the light in her eyes sent a shiver through Kathryn’s body. But before she could make her way to her, B’Elanna was in her arms, her round belly nudging against Kathryn’s stomach. A moment later, she actually felt a kick, and laughed.
“Goodness, that’s a nice hello and how are you!” she exclaimed, laying a hand against B’Elanna’s stomach, only to feel a second kick. “This one’s as active as Miral was, I guess. And I didn’t even know for sure you were pregnant!”
B’Elanna shrugged. “We kept it low profile. Miral’s going into school, and we haven’t decided where we’ll be--” B’Elanna stopped speaking, just as Harry had, her eyes on the four pips.
Tom appeared behind his wife, one hand sliding against her back. “Pretty nice, huh? The admiral’s a captain again.”
Everyone in the room heard Tom, and there was a general exclamation from a dozen voices. They all came closer, leaving their seats to greet Kathryn. Seven, Beverly and Jean-Luc hung back a little, but Kathryn hugged the Doctor, Naomi, Samantha and Libby in quick succession as they patted her and congratulated her. Chakotay was there too, watching her with serious eyes, and they hugged briefly. Kathryn didn’t recognize the woman at his side, and held out her hand.
“Captain Kathryn Janeway,” she said, waiting for a reply.
“Dr. Sarah Russell,” the woman said. “It’s an honor to meet you. Though I was expecting an admiral rather than a captain.”
“You and everyone else here,” Kathryn said. “I assume you’re with--”
“Chakotay,” Sarah finished for her. “We’ll talk later, I don’t want to interrupt your celebration.”
Kathryn looked over at Chakotay-this woman seemed nice. Perhaps he’d finally made an appropriate choice. “Sounds good, I appreciate it.” With a nod to Sarah, she searched out Tuvok’s staid features and moved toward him. She patted his arm, keeping a respectful distance. “Good to see you, old friend. And you, T’Pel.”
“Always a pleasure, Captain,” T’Pel replied. Kathryn suspected there was a knowing smile behind her staid expression.
Tuvok’s eyebrow rose, and Kathryn grinned. He said, “I see you have been busy since your departure from Headquarters some weeks ago. I have to say that your recent actions have been… surprising.”
“Didn’t think I had it in me, Tuvok?”
“On the contrary. I only expected the changes sooner. I realized you would need time to recover from Voyager’s mission, but five years was far longer than I thought.”
“Figures,” Kathryn said. “You know me too well. I needed a little motivation from an outside source.”
“Indeed?” Tuvok replied.
“Yep. I think you’re familiar with her,” Kathryn said, easing out of the small circle that surrounded her, toward Seven, Jean-Luc and Beverly. “Hello, Beverly.” She gave her a quick hug, and turned to Seven. “And you…” She held out a hand, twining her fingers with Seven’s as she stepped close and pressed their cheeks together.
Seven’s breath was soft against her ear. “Hello, Kathryn.”
“Did you have any trouble with the turkeys?”
“None at all. I have significant experience with their preparation, unlike you. They will be exceptional.”
“Without a doubt,” Kathryn replied, hanging on to Seven’s hand, the metal fingertips smooth under her touch. She turned back to the group, some of whom were watching her with wide eyes and open mouths. “When do we eat?”
A few seconds passed before Harry replied, “Uh, not long now.” He nudged Libby, who started and closed her mouth.
“Right,” Libby added. “Why don’t you all have a seat at the table?”
Kathryn just nodded, and started forward with Seven’s hand still in hers. She was shortly interrupted by the Doctor. “Captain, allow me to introduce my date, Nicole Jefferson. She has been eager to meet you.”
“Of course,” Kathryn said, pausing. “Lovely to meet you.”
They shook hands while Seven explained Nicole’s profession. “Ms. Jefferson writes holoprograms and ‘moonlights’ as a Dabo girl on Deep Space 7.”
“How marvelous,” Kathryn replied. “How long have you two been seeing one another?”
“Eight months last week,” the Doctor replied. In a low voice, he continued, “I might ask you and Seven the same thing.”
Kathryn looked over at Seven, whose expression exuded an unmistakable sense of pride. “Three weeks, four days, seven hours. Approximately,” Seven added.
The Doctor grinned. “Mr. Paris,” he called out, and Tom glanced over. “You owe me 3 bottles of the best Bajoran Spring Wine you can find.” He took Nicole’s arm and nodded toward her. “Nicole is quite the fan. You’re welcome, dear.”
Nicole just smiled in reply. “Goody.”
Tom’s eyes narrowed as he watched them all. “Did I just-well, geez, hot dog! Somebody had better fill us in on what’s been going on with you, Captain.”
“I’d be happy to, Tom, as soon as someone puts some turkey on my plate. And don’t skimp on the mashed potatoes. Reg, what would you say to doing the honors with the bird?”
Reg shrugged his shoulders, but his grin belied his pleasure at the request. “Of course, Captain.”
“You deserve it,” she added, still grateful for Barclay’s belief in Voyager, his refusal to give up hope. “You’re as much a part of this crew, this family, as anyone here.”
There were no place cards at the table, but the group ended up sitting in the general arrangement they’d often taken in the briefing room, with a few exceptions. Seven made sure to have Kathryn next to her, with Beverly and Jean-Luc on her other side. Before Tom or anyone else could grill Kathryn or Seven on their romance, Beverly demanded to know the details of ceremony during which Kathryn had been rechristened a captain. Jean-Luc told the story of just the two of them, with Reg acting as a witness, as Commodore Caruthers placed the four pips back where they belonged. Seven’s hand found hers under the table, and Kathryn smiled as she held on tightly.
Tom chuckled, saying, “Yeah, that’s all well and good, but I’d rather hear more about this other recent development. How long did you say it’s been going on, Seven?”
Everyone stared at the pair of them, and Chakotay frowned. “What’s been going on?” he asked.
The Doctor piped up before anyone else. “The Captain and Seven have formed, shall we say, a romantic alliance.”
The blood drained from Chakotay’s face, but the rest of the table, including Chakotay’s date, broke out into grins. Tuvok nodded toward her in approval; she doubted it was unexpected, considering how well he knew her. Tom smacked Kathryn on the back from his seat next to her, and she coughed. “Way to go, Captain. I gotta say, I thought two would never get it together.”
Libby gaped at him. “Tom, you knew? Seven, you’ve been to our Thanksgivings for the past three years and you never said a word about carrying a torch for the Captain.”
Seven looked thoughtful, tilting her head. “I was not able to discuss it then. But I did… wish that things were different.”
“And I guess you didn’t tell anyone either, huh, Captain,” Harry said.
“No,” Kathryn replied firmly. “I-well, it doesn’t matter. The past is the past, and we’re all here together now, with nothing but good things ahead for all of us. Right?”
“That sounds like a toast,” B’Elanna declared. “Somebody pour the wine!”
“For everyone except you,” Tom chided.
“Oh please, I can have a sip. You’re always telling me it’s bad luck to toast with water anyway, Paris.” B’Elanna held up her empty glass.
Libby and Beverly poured for the table, and even Naomi got to have a little. Kathryn thought it was only fitting that the girl was able to celebrate with them all. Naomi looked thrilled to know that two of her favorite women were together, and Kathryn caught Sam winking at Seven surreptitiously. Seven hid a smirk.
“So,” Kathryn said quietly, leaning close to Seven. “That went well.”
“It could not have gone otherwise. You were correct; it was appropriate to announce to the group en masse.”
“There’s safety in numbers,” Kathryn reminded her. Before she lost her nerve, she glanced at Chakotay. He was gazing blankly at the empty place setting in front of him, while Sarah was deep in discussion with Samantha Wildman’s Ktarian husband. Chakotay seemed to sense her attention and looked up to meet her eyes. Unable to do anything else, Kathryn gave him a sad smile. He smiled back, his expression melancholy, almost mournful. Kathryn recognized the look as one she used to see in the mirror every morning-it spoke of settling. Settling for what, she didn’t exactly know. But she hoped for his sake, and especially for Sarah’s, that he would be able to move on from whatever loss he felt at that moment.
“Kathryn,” Seven said, breaking into the silence.
“Yes?”
“Your wine.”
Kathryn accepted the glass with a sigh, finding hope and more in Seven’s fathomless gaze. Over Seven’s shoulder, she saw Jean-Luc stand, holding his glass aloft. His voice rang out, clear and strong, in a toast she wondered how long he’d been saving.
“Come, my friends, 'Tis not too late to seek a newer world.
Push off, and sitting well in order smite
The sounding furrows; for my purpose holds
To sail beyond the sunset, and the baths
Of all the western stars, until I die....
…Tho' much is taken, much abides; and tho'
We are not now that strength which in old days
Moved earth and heaven; that which we are, we are;
One equal temper of heroic hearts,
Made weak by time and fate, but strong in will
To strive, to seek, to find, and not to yield.”
He turned to Kathryn, and his smile was one of pure understanding. This was a man who knew her heart, who had since the day they’d met. “Captain, I wish you Godspeed on your future journey, and the same to those who may join you,” he added, surveying all the familiar faces around the table.
“Here, here,” echoed everyone, until Tom spoke up. “Speaking of future journeys, Captain, have any open spots on your crew manifest?”
Seven’s eyebrows rose when Kathryn turned toward her for a moment. “Perhaps,” Kathryn replied. “Interested, Tom?”
B’Elanna and Tom looked at each other. “Yep,” B’Elanna said. “If you’re open to families.”
“I’d like to know that too,” Libby said. “Just out of curiosity, of course.” Kathryn saw Harry glance toward her in pleasurable surprise.
Seven’s hand took its place once more on Kathryn’s thigh. “I am, in fact. Nothing’s set in stone, but it’s likely to be an exploration vessel, populated by Starfleet officers and civilian contractors. And their families.” The Elysium was also going to be one of the largest ships in Starfleet, second only to the Enterprise. She would have her work cut out for her choosing a senior staff, but considering the greedy look on some faces around the dinner table, it wouldn’t be as challenging as she expected.
“It sounds like quite the adventure you have in store,” the Doctor said. “I, for one, can hardly wait to discover what the next chapter holds for you. And for all of us.” Nicole leaned toward him, and their shoulders brushed sweetly as they shared a secret smile.
“I agree,” Seven said, her voice soft in Kathryn’s ear.
Kathryn looked up into her eyes, utterly grateful at that moment for all Seven had given her. “Me too,” Kathryn said, touching her glass to Seven’s. “Thank you, Seven.”
Seven’s brow furrowed. “For what?”
Kathryn simply shook her head, overwhelmed by the depth of her gratitude, and her love. “For everything.”
The end
Credit: Jean-Luc paraphrases two stanzas of Alfred, Lord Tennyson's Ulysses.
Author: chilly_flame
Fandom: Voyager
Pairing: J/7
Rating: M
Disclaimer: All the characters included herein are property of Paramount. Alas.
---
EPILOGUE
Several Weeks Later
Seven took a breath and adjusted her blouse. Behind her, Beverly waited patiently. “Nervous?” Beverly asked.
Seven tilted her head. “Not quite. More apprehensive, yet I’m also excited. I’m looking forward to the looks on everyone’s faces,” she admitted sheepishly.
“Think they’ll be surprised?”
“Some will, certainly, but I think a few won’t be at all.” Seven didn’t know if Chakotay would be at the party; she’d done her best not to ask Harry about all the attendees. He would be shocked, Seven was sure, while Tom Paris would probably immediately collect credits from whatever betting pool he’d set up about her and Kathryn. He had remarkable insight into personal relationships, though he used to mask it with bravado. That superficial quality had faded now with Miral growing up, and rumor had it, there was another baby on the way.
Beverly’s hand rested on Seven’s shoulder. “I’ll protect you if anyone goes berserk,” she said, and Seven could hear the smile in her voice.
Seven touched her hand once, and nodded. She rang the chime.
Less than ten seconds passed when Libby appeared in the doorway. “Seven! Perfect timing. Come in, come in,” she said, kissing her on the cheek. “Hi Captain Crusher,” Libby added, a little more formally, holding out her hand. “I’m happy you could make it.”
“Please,” Beverly said, “call me Beverly. It’s the holidays, and I’m off duty.” She leaned in and kissed Libby’s cheek, and Seven was charmed to see the mild blush that pinked Libby’s face. “We brought the turkeys. Seven’s been planning for days.”
“Wonderful. Harry, come and help me,” Libby said, quickly joined by Harry. He was as bright and cheerful as he’d been the day Seven met him. She thought about their first meetings, his youthful crush, and the way their association had turned to real friendship over the last few years. She was again reminded of the luck she’d been granted. Seven handed him a stasis container, while Libby helped Beverly with the other.
“Hey, Seven. I’m so glad you’re here.” He gave her a one-armed hug, and she held him gratefully.
“Thank you for having us, Harry. Is everyone already here?”
“Not everyone.” He led her into the kitchen, placing the turkey on the granite-topped island. “Tom and B’Elanna are on their way with Miral; they were at Tom’s parents earlier, and I got the impression someone threw a temper tantrum. Though I’m not entirely sure who threw it,” he said with a grin. “But Joe is here,” he added, with a funny little grimace. “It’s still odd to call him that. He seems happy, though. And he’s got a very pretty blonde on his arm. Sam and Naomi made it, and Tuvok and T’Pel. And uh, Chakotay just got here a few minutes ago. He brought someone. Listen, Seven, when you see his date, don’t freak out, okay?”
Seven raised an eyebrow. “’Freak out?’ Why would I?”
“Well, let’s just say she looks kind of familiar. I mean, at least to me, she does.”
“Oh.” Seven was confused but she assumed she’d figure it out soon enough.
“And the Admiral’s not here yet. She promised she’d come, but said she might be late.”
Seven nodded. This was not a surprise. Kathryn had kissed her goodbye this morning just after 6, and Seven had wished her luck that things would be resolved quickly. They’d wanted their plans locked up as soon as possible so they could enjoy the coming holidays in peace and quiet.
“I’m still amazed she agreed to come!” Harry exclaimed. “I’ve been trying to talk her into it for years, and she always begged off for one reason or another. Libby and I saw her now and then, but our Voyager reunions are never the same without her.”
Seven knew exactly how he felt. “I am pleased she’ll be in attendance.”
“I think she’s bringing someone too. She said to set an extra place at the table.”
Seven tried very hard not to smile. She knew who Kathryn’s date was. “Ah,” was all she said.
“Anyway, come in and see everyone!” He took her by the elbow and led her out into the spacious great room, announcing to the group, “Seven’s here!”
Almost a dozen heads swiveled in their direction, and she was greeted with smiles almost across the board. Naomi was the first to react, bolting from her seat on the couch, practically leaping up the few steps into her arms. “Seven!” Seven wrapped the girl in a tight hug, surprised at her height. Sometimes she still expected Naomi to look like a child, even though she’d become a young woman. “I’m so glad you’re here! I’ve been waiting.”
“I am sorry for the delay. The turkeys took a little longer than expected.”
Samantha peeked over Naomi’s shoulder. “They always do. Hello, Seven.” Sam kissed her cheek, and Seven reached out for her hand while still holding Naomi.
She let Naomi drag her down into the conversation pit, keeping one arm about the girl’s shoulder while greeting her other old friends. She nodded to both Tuvok and his wife, promising to speak more to them soon, and hugged the Doctor. Joe, she reminded herself. Naomi was soon distracted by Henry Kim, who was babbling baby talk across the room, and promised that she’d be back shortly.
Left with the doctor and the woman with him, Seven said, “Hello, Joe.” The name sounded odd in her mouth.
“Hello, Seven,” he replied, chipper as ever. “Allow me to introduce Nicole Jefferson. Nicole, this is my very dear friend Seven of Nine, otherwise known as Annika Hansen. She was our astrometrics expert on Voyager and now works at the Theoretical Propulsion Group.”
“How marvelous,” Nicole said. “It’s lovely to meet you.”
“And you,” Seven replied, shaking Nicole’s hand. She was as lovely as Harry had implied. The doctor hadn’t brought anyone to a Voyager reunion before now, and she wondered how serious it was between them. “How do you two know each other?”
The Doctor smiled, almost smug as Nicole explained. “I work the Dabo tables at Deep Space 7. We met when Joe was staying over for a conference on artificial life forms and sentience.”
Seven was a little surprised. “Dabo. I know the game.”
The Doctor continued, “Of course, Nicole is just being modest. Dabo is only her day job. Last year she authored a top-selling holonovel. She finds working the tables a great source of inspiration.”
Nicole shrugged, and her smile was infectious. “I could probably leave the tables, but it’s awfully fun. And I meet people from dozens of species every day. It certainly helps keep the creative juices flowing.”
Seven nodded, now seeing what brought them together. “Have you worked on any joint projects?”
“Not yet,” Nicole replied. “I’ve got one more novel on my contract, and then we’ll see. In the meantime, Joe’s working on another novel.”
“I am glad to hear it,” Seven said. “I’m sure it will be a success.”
The Doctor shrugged. “We shall see. And you, Seven? Where have you been keeping yourself?”
Seven took a breath, and just as she was going to tell the lie she and Kathryn had agreed on, they were interrupted by Chakotay, and a slight woman who accompanied him. “Hello, Annika. Sorry to interrupt, Doctor.”
“Not at all,” the Doctor replied smoothly, though he was frowning.
Seven barely heard him, because she was trying very hard not to stare at Chakotay’s date. The woman had shoulder length auburn hair, blue eyes, and a face that bore a striking resemblance to one Kathryn Janeway. Seven swallowed, attempting to convince herself that the resemblance wasn’t that obvious, but as she recalled what Harry had said earlier, she knew it wasn’t her imagination. ”Hello Chakotay.”
“This is my girlfriend, Sarah.” The word automatically made Seven’s hackles rise; she remembered Chakotay referring to her as his “girlfriend” five years ago, and it somehow seemed silly to her ears. It still did. But that was probably because it was Chakotay, who she knew far better than she wished to. “How are you? Did you bring anyone?” he asked.
Of course he wanted to know. She ignored him and held out her hand to Sarah, who likely didn’t pick up on the tension that had just sprung up. “Nice to meet you, Sarah.”
The Doctor and Nicole drifted out of their little circle, and Seven wished fervently that they’d stayed. “And you, Annika,” Nicole replied. “Chakotay’s told me a lot about you.”
Hopefully not everything, Seven thought. Particularly not the fact that Seven had punched a hole in his hallway the night they terminated their association. “How nice. How long have you and Chakotay been seeing one another?”
Chakotay replied, “Almost six months now. Sarah’s an archeologist on Earth-we met in New Mexico.”
“How nice,” Seven said. Sarah went on to describe the work she did in New Mexico, while Seven only half listened. The other half of her brain was cataloguing all of the ways that the woman didn’t measure up to the real Kathryn Janeway. She wasn’t as beautiful, or intense, or brilliant, though she was admittedly intelligent, not to mention very friendly. Perhaps Sarah was a better match for Chakotay than Kathryn or Seven ever could be. In a moment of insight, Seven wondered if Chakotay had pursued her on Voyager as a way to get under Kathryn’s skin. She’d heard the gossip about the Captain and the Commander for a long time before she had ever formed a bond with Chakotay, but she’d never believed a word of it. The Captain would not have embarked on such a relationship with her XO, particularly after the friction that developed during their last 18 months on the ship.
Seven’s mind was swirling, but Sarah and Chakotay were both watching her as if waiting for her reply. “I’m sorry, what did you say?” she asked.
“Did you bring anyone tonight?” Chakotay said for a second time.
“Oh, I brought Captain Beverly Crusher. There,” Seven said, gesturing toward Beverly as she played with Henry as Naomi looked on.
“As your date?” Sarah asked. “I thought she--”
“Is married, to Admiral Jean-Luc Picard,” Seven finished for her. “Beverly is a very dear friend.” To put it mildly. “As is Jean-Luc.”
Chakotay chuckled. “Are they on the outs? I haven’t seen Jean-Luc here--”
“No, they are not,” Seven said firmly. “They are very much in love, but Jean-Luc had urgent business at Headquarters this afternoon that could not wait. He will be here soon.”
Sarah glanced at Chakotay, and Seven saw her discomfort. “Of course, Annika, I didn’t mean to imply anything,” Chakotay said. At least he had the grace to look ashamed at his assumption.
Seven nodded imperiously. She tried not to have regrets in her life, yet somehow she could not help but wishing she’d made different choices when it came to the former Commander of Voyager.
“They are a very high-profile pair,” Chakotay said. “I didn’t realize you knew them.”
Seven glanced over at Beverly, feeling the familiar sense of affection and belonging she’d felt almost since the day they’d met five years before. “They are very caring people,” Seven said simply. “Would you excuse me? I need to check on the food.”
Chakotay’s smile faded, but Sarah just patted her on the arm and said, “Of course! Don’t let us keep you. We’ll talk more later.”
Seven left them and returned to the kitchen, where Libby was adding seasoning to a selection of vegetables in a casserole dish. “Hey,” Libby said. “I saw you with Chakotay.” Her eyes were very wide as her voice dropped into a whisper. “Did you get a load of Sarah? She looks just like the Admiral! Well, not just like, but they could be sisters.”
“Yes, I saw.” Seven sighed. “It made me uncomfortable, but I am not sure why.”
Libby rolled her eyes. “It’s weird. That’s why. I mean, I guess he has a type. Harry always said he had a thing for her.” Libby seemed to remember exactly who she was talking to. “I mean, before you two got together.”
“And after, apparently.” Seven resolved not to let the issue bother her any further. Especially because Kathryn would soon join her at the party, and Chakotay would know. Once more she wondered how he’d react. “Not that I judge him for it. Kathryn is a remarkable woman who deserves as much admiration as she receives.”
Libby grinned. “She sure does. I hope she gets here soon. It’s been ages since we’ve seen her, and Harry’s really missed her. She’s-I don’t know. Special.” She laughed at herself. “I guess you know that though. You all do.”
“I know very well,” Seven agreed. Very special, she thought.
A moment later the door chimed, and Libby asked, “Wanna get that? It’s probably Tom and the brood.”
“Of course.” Seven went to the door and opened it, revealing the Paris-Torres family. Miral gazed up at Seven, who leaned down and held out her hand solemnly. “Hello, Miral. It’s very good to see you.”
“Hello, Seven of Nine,” the girl said, very seriously. Above her, B’Elanna cracked up.
“Goodness, we’re awfully formal, aren’t we,” she drawled, yanking Seven into a full body hug. “Come ‘ere, Borg. It’s great to see you.”
“Sure is,” Tom said, clapping her on the shoulder and hugging her too. “Too long since the last time. I’m glad you could be here. And that we made it in one piece. We had kind of a tough morning.” He looked exhausted, while B’Elanna appeared the picture of health. And she was very definitely pregnant.
“And who’s this?” Seven said, nodding in the direction of B’Elanna’s belly.
“Miral’s baby brother, scheduled to arrive in about three months.” Miral turned up her nose and stomped into the hallway, abandoning the three of them without a word. B’Elanna sighed. “She’s sort of over it now that it’s happening. After two years of complaining about wanting a sister, the idea of a brother threw her for a loop.”
“She’ll come around though,” Tom said as they carried their supplies into the entryway. “Right?” He looked almost desperate.
“Absolutely,” Seven said, schooling her features carefully, though she found herself wanting to laugh. Poor Tom. Despite his obvious fatigue, he looked as happy as he ever had, and Seven was pleased for him. For all of them.
“When’s dinner?” Tom said, heading into the kitchen. B’Elanna rolled her eyes and followed him, and Seven trailed after them with a grin.
---
Kathryn looped her arm through Jean-Luc’s as they approached the door to Harry’s apartment in the center of San Francisco. She’d always loved the views from the rooftop building, and this clear and crisp night would be no exception. The fog would roll in later; she hoped they could watch it come across the water and envelop the bridge. Her second guest trailed behind them, carrying a bouquet of flowers so enormous it filled both his arms.
“You ready?” Jean-Luc asked.
Kathryn nodded. “If I haven’t said it before, thank you, a thousand times, Jean-Luc.”
“My pleasure. You made a fine admiral, but you’ll do far better where you belong. We both know it.”
“I agree,” Reg Barclay piped up over Kathryn’s shoulder. “You belong in space. Just a little closer than 75,000 light years away though.”
Kathryn grinned, and touched the four new pips evenly spaced along her collar. They felt familiar. Right.
Harry was waiting when the door slid open, and he clapped his hands once. “The party’s here! Come in, Admiral,” he exclaimed, pulling her into a warm hug that would never have happened before Voyager’s return. But Harry, of all of them, was more like a son to her than she’d ever tell a soul; his boyish charm, his good nature, his desire to be the best made her latent maternal instincts flare up. Particularly at this moment, as he welcomed her into his home for a family holiday. “Admiral Picard, welcome. And you must be the surprise guest, Reg! I’m so glad you’re here,” Harry said once he pulled back from Kathryn. Harry shook both their hands and led them into the entryway. “Libby’s just about ready to put the turkey on the table--”
Kathryn saw Harry’s eyes move to her collar, and he froze right away. No one said a word, until Harry’s hand rose and motioned toward her throat. “What’s that?”
Kathryn raised an eyebrow and touched her pips again. “You mean these?”
Harry nodded, silent.
“Well, the brass decided that I was a rotten admiral, so they kicked me down a notch. As of this afternoon, I’m a plain old Captain again.”
Harry’s joy, disbelief and wonder melded into an expression Kathryn would not soon forget. He hugged her again, emotion getting the better of both of them. “Captain,” he whispered in her ear, and the sound of the word was so sweet it brought tears to her eyes.
“That’s right, Harry,” she said, patting his shoulder and trying to hold everything in. “That’s right.”
“Harry, you’re hogging the guests,” Tom Paris bellowed, and Kathryn jumped in surprise. She wiped her eyes as subtly as she could, chuckling, and Harry did the same.
“Admiral! Or Admirals, I should say--”
“You got it right the first time, Tom,” Harry crowed. “Captain Janeway’s our guest tonight.”
Tom gaped, and this time, Kathryn’s laugh bubbled up. “Don’t worry, I’ll put the pips away for the dinner, though I have to say it’s been nice having them on again after all these years.”
“Unbelievable. Captain,” Tom said, coming up to her. “Captain.” He hugged her too, lifting her right off her feet. She didn’t mind at all. “We sure have missed you.”
“Me too, Tommy,” Kathryn said, and she suspected Tom knew just what she meant. “Is B’Elanna here?”
“Sure is. Come in.” He held out a hand and shook Jean-Luc’s, saying, “Pardon my manners, I was just a little surprised, that’s all. And Reg! Fantastic. Always a pleasure. Nice to see you too, Admiral Picard.”
“I’d appreciate if you called me Jean-Luc, tonight, if you don’t mind, Tom,” he said. “I’m off duty, and we’re all family here.”
Kathryn registered the surprise on both Harry and Tom’s faces; she supposed that Seven hadn’t really explained Beverly’s presence tonight, much less Jean-Luc’s. “Of course, sir,” Harry said, “Er, Jean-Luc.”
“Harry,” Kathryn said, patting his cheek gently, “Never change.”
He grinned, his cheeks flushing in a familiar manner. “Get in here and see everyone. And I hope you don’t mind being the center of attention because those pips are going to be the main topic of conversation for a while, without a doubt.”
Kathryn thought that he might be wrong, but only time would tell. She took a deep breath and found herself in the main room, looking down on so many friends and colleagues she hadn’t seen all together for quite some time. It felt homey and wonderful, exactly what she needed on Thanksgiving. Her mother had initially balked at her absence from their dinner table today, but the week she and Seven had spent at the Bloomington house more than made up for it. Her eyes traveled over the many faces, fastening on Seven last. Right away, Seven glanced up, and the light in her eyes sent a shiver through Kathryn’s body. But before she could make her way to her, B’Elanna was in her arms, her round belly nudging against Kathryn’s stomach. A moment later, she actually felt a kick, and laughed.
“Goodness, that’s a nice hello and how are you!” she exclaimed, laying a hand against B’Elanna’s stomach, only to feel a second kick. “This one’s as active as Miral was, I guess. And I didn’t even know for sure you were pregnant!”
B’Elanna shrugged. “We kept it low profile. Miral’s going into school, and we haven’t decided where we’ll be--” B’Elanna stopped speaking, just as Harry had, her eyes on the four pips.
Tom appeared behind his wife, one hand sliding against her back. “Pretty nice, huh? The admiral’s a captain again.”
Everyone in the room heard Tom, and there was a general exclamation from a dozen voices. They all came closer, leaving their seats to greet Kathryn. Seven, Beverly and Jean-Luc hung back a little, but Kathryn hugged the Doctor, Naomi, Samantha and Libby in quick succession as they patted her and congratulated her. Chakotay was there too, watching her with serious eyes, and they hugged briefly. Kathryn didn’t recognize the woman at his side, and held out her hand.
“Captain Kathryn Janeway,” she said, waiting for a reply.
“Dr. Sarah Russell,” the woman said. “It’s an honor to meet you. Though I was expecting an admiral rather than a captain.”
“You and everyone else here,” Kathryn said. “I assume you’re with--”
“Chakotay,” Sarah finished for her. “We’ll talk later, I don’t want to interrupt your celebration.”
Kathryn looked over at Chakotay-this woman seemed nice. Perhaps he’d finally made an appropriate choice. “Sounds good, I appreciate it.” With a nod to Sarah, she searched out Tuvok’s staid features and moved toward him. She patted his arm, keeping a respectful distance. “Good to see you, old friend. And you, T’Pel.”
“Always a pleasure, Captain,” T’Pel replied. Kathryn suspected there was a knowing smile behind her staid expression.
Tuvok’s eyebrow rose, and Kathryn grinned. He said, “I see you have been busy since your departure from Headquarters some weeks ago. I have to say that your recent actions have been… surprising.”
“Didn’t think I had it in me, Tuvok?”
“On the contrary. I only expected the changes sooner. I realized you would need time to recover from Voyager’s mission, but five years was far longer than I thought.”
“Figures,” Kathryn said. “You know me too well. I needed a little motivation from an outside source.”
“Indeed?” Tuvok replied.
“Yep. I think you’re familiar with her,” Kathryn said, easing out of the small circle that surrounded her, toward Seven, Jean-Luc and Beverly. “Hello, Beverly.” She gave her a quick hug, and turned to Seven. “And you…” She held out a hand, twining her fingers with Seven’s as she stepped close and pressed their cheeks together.
Seven’s breath was soft against her ear. “Hello, Kathryn.”
“Did you have any trouble with the turkeys?”
“None at all. I have significant experience with their preparation, unlike you. They will be exceptional.”
“Without a doubt,” Kathryn replied, hanging on to Seven’s hand, the metal fingertips smooth under her touch. She turned back to the group, some of whom were watching her with wide eyes and open mouths. “When do we eat?”
A few seconds passed before Harry replied, “Uh, not long now.” He nudged Libby, who started and closed her mouth.
“Right,” Libby added. “Why don’t you all have a seat at the table?”
Kathryn just nodded, and started forward with Seven’s hand still in hers. She was shortly interrupted by the Doctor. “Captain, allow me to introduce my date, Nicole Jefferson. She has been eager to meet you.”
“Of course,” Kathryn said, pausing. “Lovely to meet you.”
They shook hands while Seven explained Nicole’s profession. “Ms. Jefferson writes holoprograms and ‘moonlights’ as a Dabo girl on Deep Space 7.”
“How marvelous,” Kathryn replied. “How long have you two been seeing one another?”
“Eight months last week,” the Doctor replied. In a low voice, he continued, “I might ask you and Seven the same thing.”
Kathryn looked over at Seven, whose expression exuded an unmistakable sense of pride. “Three weeks, four days, seven hours. Approximately,” Seven added.
The Doctor grinned. “Mr. Paris,” he called out, and Tom glanced over. “You owe me 3 bottles of the best Bajoran Spring Wine you can find.” He took Nicole’s arm and nodded toward her. “Nicole is quite the fan. You’re welcome, dear.”
Nicole just smiled in reply. “Goody.”
Tom’s eyes narrowed as he watched them all. “Did I just-well, geez, hot dog! Somebody had better fill us in on what’s been going on with you, Captain.”
“I’d be happy to, Tom, as soon as someone puts some turkey on my plate. And don’t skimp on the mashed potatoes. Reg, what would you say to doing the honors with the bird?”
Reg shrugged his shoulders, but his grin belied his pleasure at the request. “Of course, Captain.”
“You deserve it,” she added, still grateful for Barclay’s belief in Voyager, his refusal to give up hope. “You’re as much a part of this crew, this family, as anyone here.”
There were no place cards at the table, but the group ended up sitting in the general arrangement they’d often taken in the briefing room, with a few exceptions. Seven made sure to have Kathryn next to her, with Beverly and Jean-Luc on her other side. Before Tom or anyone else could grill Kathryn or Seven on their romance, Beverly demanded to know the details of ceremony during which Kathryn had been rechristened a captain. Jean-Luc told the story of just the two of them, with Reg acting as a witness, as Commodore Caruthers placed the four pips back where they belonged. Seven’s hand found hers under the table, and Kathryn smiled as she held on tightly.
Tom chuckled, saying, “Yeah, that’s all well and good, but I’d rather hear more about this other recent development. How long did you say it’s been going on, Seven?”
Everyone stared at the pair of them, and Chakotay frowned. “What’s been going on?” he asked.
The Doctor piped up before anyone else. “The Captain and Seven have formed, shall we say, a romantic alliance.”
The blood drained from Chakotay’s face, but the rest of the table, including Chakotay’s date, broke out into grins. Tuvok nodded toward her in approval; she doubted it was unexpected, considering how well he knew her. Tom smacked Kathryn on the back from his seat next to her, and she coughed. “Way to go, Captain. I gotta say, I thought two would never get it together.”
Libby gaped at him. “Tom, you knew? Seven, you’ve been to our Thanksgivings for the past three years and you never said a word about carrying a torch for the Captain.”
Seven looked thoughtful, tilting her head. “I was not able to discuss it then. But I did… wish that things were different.”
“And I guess you didn’t tell anyone either, huh, Captain,” Harry said.
“No,” Kathryn replied firmly. “I-well, it doesn’t matter. The past is the past, and we’re all here together now, with nothing but good things ahead for all of us. Right?”
“That sounds like a toast,” B’Elanna declared. “Somebody pour the wine!”
“For everyone except you,” Tom chided.
“Oh please, I can have a sip. You’re always telling me it’s bad luck to toast with water anyway, Paris.” B’Elanna held up her empty glass.
Libby and Beverly poured for the table, and even Naomi got to have a little. Kathryn thought it was only fitting that the girl was able to celebrate with them all. Naomi looked thrilled to know that two of her favorite women were together, and Kathryn caught Sam winking at Seven surreptitiously. Seven hid a smirk.
“So,” Kathryn said quietly, leaning close to Seven. “That went well.”
“It could not have gone otherwise. You were correct; it was appropriate to announce to the group en masse.”
“There’s safety in numbers,” Kathryn reminded her. Before she lost her nerve, she glanced at Chakotay. He was gazing blankly at the empty place setting in front of him, while Sarah was deep in discussion with Samantha Wildman’s Ktarian husband. Chakotay seemed to sense her attention and looked up to meet her eyes. Unable to do anything else, Kathryn gave him a sad smile. He smiled back, his expression melancholy, almost mournful. Kathryn recognized the look as one she used to see in the mirror every morning-it spoke of settling. Settling for what, she didn’t exactly know. But she hoped for his sake, and especially for Sarah’s, that he would be able to move on from whatever loss he felt at that moment.
“Kathryn,” Seven said, breaking into the silence.
“Yes?”
“Your wine.”
Kathryn accepted the glass with a sigh, finding hope and more in Seven’s fathomless gaze. Over Seven’s shoulder, she saw Jean-Luc stand, holding his glass aloft. His voice rang out, clear and strong, in a toast she wondered how long he’d been saving.
“Come, my friends, 'Tis not too late to seek a newer world.
Push off, and sitting well in order smite
The sounding furrows; for my purpose holds
To sail beyond the sunset, and the baths
Of all the western stars, until I die....
…Tho' much is taken, much abides; and tho'
We are not now that strength which in old days
Moved earth and heaven; that which we are, we are;
One equal temper of heroic hearts,
Made weak by time and fate, but strong in will
To strive, to seek, to find, and not to yield.”
He turned to Kathryn, and his smile was one of pure understanding. This was a man who knew her heart, who had since the day they’d met. “Captain, I wish you Godspeed on your future journey, and the same to those who may join you,” he added, surveying all the familiar faces around the table.
“Here, here,” echoed everyone, until Tom spoke up. “Speaking of future journeys, Captain, have any open spots on your crew manifest?”
Seven’s eyebrows rose when Kathryn turned toward her for a moment. “Perhaps,” Kathryn replied. “Interested, Tom?”
B’Elanna and Tom looked at each other. “Yep,” B’Elanna said. “If you’re open to families.”
“I’d like to know that too,” Libby said. “Just out of curiosity, of course.” Kathryn saw Harry glance toward her in pleasurable surprise.
Seven’s hand took its place once more on Kathryn’s thigh. “I am, in fact. Nothing’s set in stone, but it’s likely to be an exploration vessel, populated by Starfleet officers and civilian contractors. And their families.” The Elysium was also going to be one of the largest ships in Starfleet, second only to the Enterprise. She would have her work cut out for her choosing a senior staff, but considering the greedy look on some faces around the dinner table, it wouldn’t be as challenging as she expected.
“It sounds like quite the adventure you have in store,” the Doctor said. “I, for one, can hardly wait to discover what the next chapter holds for you. And for all of us.” Nicole leaned toward him, and their shoulders brushed sweetly as they shared a secret smile.
“I agree,” Seven said, her voice soft in Kathryn’s ear.
Kathryn looked up into her eyes, utterly grateful at that moment for all Seven had given her. “Me too,” Kathryn said, touching her glass to Seven’s. “Thank you, Seven.”
Seven’s brow furrowed. “For what?”
Kathryn simply shook her head, overwhelmed by the depth of her gratitude, and her love. “For everything.”
The end
Credit: Jean-Luc paraphrases two stanzas of Alfred, Lord Tennyson's Ulysses.